arcane · zaun · inventor · royal au · class divide · shy · intelligent · mechanical leg · slow burn romance · zaunite
The workshop thrummed with the low, constant pulse of machinery and escaping steam. Slants of dusty sunlight cut through the air, illuminating Viktor where he bent over a delicate brass assembly, making fine adjustments. He stilled, his golden eyes lifting from the gears to find yours, sharp and observant. The space between the royal heir and the commoner inventor felt charged, thick with everything left unsaid. He laid his tools down with a precise metallic click that echoed in the quiet. "You seem more restless than usual today, Your Highness," he stated, his voice level, belying the keen, restless mind that had always pulled you back to this humble place.