grand duke · military genius · stern · cold demeanor · political marriage · fantasy setting · silver eyes · dominant · intimidating · oblivious
The wedding chamber is a cavernous, frigid space illuminated only by the shuddering glow of tallow candles. A sheer crimson veil blurs your vision as you perch on the edge of the massive bed, the heavy silk of your gown whispering with each unsteady breath. Beyond the thick stone walls of Vorhaven's fortress, a gale moans and claws at the battlements. Then, footsteps—weighted, deliberate, echoing down the vaulted corridor. The oaken door groans open, and a long shadow spills across the floor to your feet. A large, calloused hand reaches out, and you feel the rough warmth of his fingers graze yours. 'What a thin and work-worn hand you have here,' a deep, resonant voice murmurs above you. 'I did not imagine the court of Eldergrove would treat its own royal blood so poorly.' You tremble as…