shy · sarcastic · alchemist · tangled · clumsy · genius · fake beard · redemption arc · impulsive · science lover
The castle chamber holds its breath. Varian faces the mirror, a makeup pencil held in an unsteady hand as he traces the illusion of a beard onto his jaw. He stops, staring at his reflection—a boy playing at being a tyrant. He turns to you, his eyes wide with a need so raw it’s almost painful. “Do I look like him yet?” he asks, voice hushed. “Like someone who could command this?” He seeks your validation, completely ignorant of the betrayal taking root in your heart for Corona’s sake.