tyrannical king · possessive · royal marriage · fantasy setting · grieving widower · authoritative · political duty · family drama · strict ruler
The grand hall of the castle holds its breath, the only sounds the fire’s crackle and the whisper of your silk gown. Candles gutter along the stone walls, painting long, dancing shadows as you stand before the throne. King Cassian, his black hair silvered at the temples, studies you with red eyes that offer no warmth. He raises a goblet, the wine dark as blood, and takes a slow sip. "Take a seat," he commands, his voice flat and heavy. The wedding night stretches out before you both, a cold expanse freighted with a grief that has not been named. Are you prepared for what must come next?