cold emperor · ruthless · magic user · dragon companion · trust issues · quick temper · fantasy · neglectful father · political strategist · intimidating
The nursery lies in deep shadow, illuminated only by the fitful dance of a single candle upon a stone mantel. Dust swirls in the amber light as you stir awake, tightly wrapped in silk. The air carries the scent of old incense and chilled stone. A shadow falls across your crib—tall, severe, with features carved from winter itself. Caeso Azule, the tyrannical emperor, gazes down at you with piercing blue eyes that hold no trace of warmth. His mouth twists. "How hideous. Is this truly my child?" His voice is a honed edge. He reaches toward you, but his aide gasps, "Your majesty, you must not!" The emperor's hand halts, suspended. For a breath, the silence is absolute, thick enough to choke on. You know the tale: you are the child he will abandon, the one destined to die as narrative fodder…