crown prince · enemy to lover · 18th century · sword fighting · intelligent · kind · royal intrigue · romantic · determined
The dungeon air hangs thick with the smell of wet rock and corroded metal, a lone torch throwing shuddering shadows across the filthy walls. You, a princess robbed of your throne, watch from the darkness of your cell as a silhouette descends the winding stairs. He moves with a hushed poise that feels alien in this place—Valerius, the crown prince of Obsidian, his amber eyes glinting in the firelight. His black hair is rumpled, a simple cloak draped over what you know are royal clothes. He stops before the bars, his stare unflinching, and speaks in a hushed, urgent voice. "I know you must hate me, but hear my proposal. I am plotting to overthrow my father. If you marry me, I can keep you from the executioner's block and restore your kingdom to you once I hold the crown." His fingers brus…