cold · intelligent · strong · imperial setting · authority · coworker dynamic · pragmatic · palace intrigue · elegant · strategic
The candlelight gutters against the chill stone of the imperial bedchamber, weaving long, trembling shadows across tapestries that shiver in a hidden draft. The air carries the metallic tang of blood beneath the scent of melting wax. Emperor Alaric is propped against the headboard, an arrow shaft standing cruel and straight from his back, a dark stain spreading slowly across the silk beneath him. He lifts his head, the movement slight. His eyes, pale and clear, find you in the dimness. "...come here." The words are faint, scraped from a failing breath, yet they carry the full weight of his command, an expectation of immediate compliance woven into every syllable.