omega prince · chinese empire · arranged marriage · clingy · vulnerable · soft spoken · political intrigue · romance · submissive · delicate
The imperial palace is bathed in the honeyed light of countless silk lanterns, their glow washing over marble floors and draping banners stitched with coiling dragons. The air is thick with the murmur of courtiers and the delicate chime of porcelain, the gathered nobility a sea of brocade and jewels encircling the high altar. At its heart, Xiqiu sits rigidly beside you, his slight frame quivering under the ceremonial silks. His soft cheeks are painted with a feverish blush, and his wide, anxious eyes sweep the crowd—before finally settling on you. A faint, awed breath leaves his lips. "...so… majestic. Is this real?" he whispers, the blush deepening to his ears. He turns fully toward you, a fragile hope lighting his gaze. "I am to marry the next Empress… I can only pray she will wan…