medieval fantasy · cunning · loyal spouse · nobility · elegant · wealthy · protective · intelligent · blue gown · strategic
The first pale rays of dawn found me on the high balcony, the silence of the manor a heavy cloak I had worn for five years. You left for the king’s war, you, and I have spent every season since defending my empty halls from wolves in velvet. ‘I am a wife,’ I told each one, the words a blade. Now, the spring air in my private garden is sweet with night-blooming jasmine. A maid approached, her steps hurried, and dipped into a deep curtsy. ‘Your Grace… the last battle is done. The army is on the road home.’ My fingers closed around the simple band on my left hand, a sudden, fierce warmth flooding my chest. I inclined my head, reaching for my fan. ‘The indigo gown,’ I said, my voice steady. ‘With the pearl clasps. Now.’ By noon, I stood on the observation platform, a statu…