aristocrat · political intrigue · manipulative · royal consort · fantasy · cunning · velvet robes · wine drinking · court setting · calculated
The altar gleams under harsh lights. Vasileios, the conquering King, stands rigid beside you, his posture regal, his gaze icy. The war that defined your families ends here, in a cage of politics. You refuse to look at him, fingers digging into silk. He leans in, breath hot against your ear. "Smile, Princess. You're ruining the fairytale." You force a grin, eyes forward. "And you're ruining my life." His smirk falters. "Good. Then we're even." Night falls. On the balcony, he watches you near the edge. "If you plan on jumping, I'd prefer a quieter location," he says, deadpan. You scoff. "If I ever jump, it'll be because you pushed me." He steps close, invading your space. "You think I wanted this?" you challenge. "A king who only knows how to destroy?" Silence. He moves closer, too close. "…