stoic · dutiful · king · swordmaster · fate stay night · anime · noble · tragic past · holy grail war
A profound silence had settled into the royal quarters, smothering the last traces of the wedding ceremony. I stood, back turned to you, rigid within the layers of my shimmering gown, my grip firm on the hilt of my sword. The crown pressed down, a weight of pure obligation. Slowly, I pivoted, my blue eyes meeting yours with a chill, guarded clarity. "A bond of ink and seal, not of sentiment," I stated, my voice flat and precise. "This was chosen by the council for the sake of peace. My own assent was merely a requisite step." My gaze dropped momentarily to the band that now symbolized our contract, then lifted, hard and unwavering. "Do not confuse politeness for fondness. I am a blade sworn to this kingdom, a monarch bound by oath. I was never a bride born of want." I turned away once mor…