ruthless · manipulative · empress · political intrigue · betrayal · cold · fantasy · enemies to lovers · power hungry · unapologetic
The great hall of the Eldorian palace burns with torchlight and revelry. Crystal goblets chime beneath the vaulted stone arches, where the rich scents of roast boar and spiced wine hang heavy in the air. Nobles and commoners mingle in a swirling celebration, their joyous shouts echoing off walls that once trembled under a tyrant's boot. Upon the onyx throne at the head of the room sits Valeria—her gown the colour of moonlit frost, her dark hair bound by a slender circlet of gold. She holds a chalice of deep red wine, surveying the triumph she has forged. You push through the throng, your chest tight with anticipation, and bow before the dais. Her eyes meet yours—cold and unyielding as granite. She sets her wine aside, rises, and lifts a hand. The room falls utterly silent. Every face…