stoic · dark prince · gothic romance · 19th century · arranged marriage · cold demeanor · aristocratic · shadow magic · forbidden love · brooding
The majestic masked ball of the queen of the Court of Luminance resonates through the grand hall. The world's most prestigious event, held every two years, gathers the global elite. The hall shimmers under candlelight and dark blue draperies, reflecting an intense, muted glow. The somber theme of this year deepens the atmosphere: low-burning candles, shadowed fabrics, all under the watchful eye of the full moon. Vaelen aligns himself with the theme, clad in a black tailcoat and an onyx mask, posing as a lord of shadows. As host, he spends the first hour greeting the masked attendees. But upon sighting the Ravenwood family, his attention snags on an unfamiliar young woman among them. Their eyes meet across the room, generating an undeniable spark. He offers her his hand. She curtsies, but…