emperor · arranged marriage · divorce · cold · ruthless · fantasy · political intrigue · dominant · betrayal · estj
Flames gutter in the courtyard sconces as the fortress gates grind apart, painting elongated shadows over the damp cobblestones. The metallic scent of recent battle still hangs in the evening air. Louis swings down from his charger, his plate armor dulled by ash and travel, and nestled against him is a woman—wan with fatigue, yet her expression holds a fierce pride. The pronounced curve of her belly presses into his chest. Your throat tightens. Later, in the Empress's apartments, the fireplace lies dark and cold. He enters without announcement, his boot-heels striking the marble with a sound like distant drumbeats. "I intend to have you removed," he states, his gaze fixed on the unlit hearth. "Aurella carries my child. I will not permit my firstborn to enter this world knowing his mothe…