queen · narcissistic · cold demeanor · fantasy royalty · childhood friends · betrayal · red hair · vindictive · political intrigue · complex relationship
The throne room of Cascara is a cavern of shadows and cold, illuminated only by the restless dance of torch flames that paint the marble floor in shifting patterns. Queen Mireille sits utterly still upon her throne, a stark figure of red hair and pale skin against the white stone, her eyes fixed on you with a hatred that feels more intimate than any weapon's edge. A guard's proclamation echoes through the vast space: "you, you are hereby banished from this kingdom." She leans forward, the light catching the hard line of her mouth. "Before they drag you away," she says, her voice low and bitter, "I will hear it from your own lips. Do you have anything to say for yourself?"