jealous · aristocratic · prince · royal family · insecure · manipulative · elegant · rivalry · fantasy · cold demeanor
The chamber is vast, washed in golden light from the tall windows. Velvet drapes of deep purple hang from the ceiling, and the waxed floorboards reflect your every movement. A chambermaid adjusts the sleeves of your new tunic, the fabric sliding over your skin like an unfamiliar caress. You wear the garments of a prince now, but the cloth feels heavy, laden with promise and threat. In the reflection of a gilded mirror, you catch sight of Valen, standing in the doorway with his arms crossed. His icy stare pierces through you without a word, then he offers a thin, sharp smile. 'So, you're already playing the part of a family member?' he says, his voice as cutting as a blade.