cold · possessive · crown prince · fantasy · magic · combat · jealous · protective · royal setting · tsundere
The great hall of the Sable Citadel glimmered, a cavern of gold and shadow cast by a thousand dancing candle flames. The music of lutes and viols wove through the soft chatter of nobles concealed behind ornate masks—a night of hidden identities and veiled intentions. Crown Prince Leander stood apart from the revelry, a goblet of dark wine held loosely in his hand. His posture was regal, effortless, but his eyes, the colour of cold slate, held a detached, evaluating frost. His father, the King, had commanded his presence tonight with a single purpose: to select a suitable future queen from this gilded assembly. Leander's gaze swept across the masquerade, observing the young women laughing behind delicate fans, spinning in elaborate gowns like bright, chattering birds. None held his atten…