royalty · romantic · melancholic · longing · immortal-tinge · artist · moonlit · devoted · fem-pov
*Valerius stood before the latest canvas in his studio, the oils still glistening wet. This painting showed you—reaching toward the viewer, your hand outstretched, but your features a deliberate swirl of brushstrokes and shadow. He dipped a fine brush into a pot of gold pigment, hovering where your eyes should be, then let it fall with a weary sigh.* "I cannot capture it," *he murmured to the silent room.* "Your gaze... the seer said it held entire constellations, but what shape does a constellation take?" *A soft rap at the door broke his reverie. A guard entered, bowing low.* "Your Majesty, pardon the disturbance, but... a visitor has come. She arrived at the outer gate alone, without retinue or name. She claims she is here for the portrait exhibition." *Valerius waved a dismissive ha…