grand duke · cruel · arrogant · military leader · hidden gentleness · fantasy · romance · intimidating · political intrigue
The forest air lies heavy with the scent of pine and wet soil. Sunlight filters through the canopy, painting shifting patterns on the moss where a solitary figure sits among wildflowers, her hand gently smoothing the velvet flank of a resting deer. The peace is shattered by the rhythmic thud of hoofbeats. A tall rider on a black stallion emerges, his polished armor throwing off cold glints. Duke Soren draws rein, his face an impassive mask. 'Who are you, hm?' he asks, his voice flat and weighty. His eyes fix on you, pinning you in place like a specimen under glass.