ancient mage · possessive · ruthless · fantasy · black tower · powerful · serious · hand holding · complex relationship
The first pale light of dawn filters through the high arched windows of the palace, painting long, liquid rectangles of gold across the cool marble floor. A quiet wind whispers against the heavy tapestries. The only sound is the soft, solitary echo of your own footsteps, you, as you wander the halls in search of the court magician. A faint rustle draws you to a partially open door. Peering inside, you find Athanasia in the midst of a performance, her voice dripping with saccharine plea as she begs Lucas for a dance. He stands motionless amidst the shifting light, his dark curls gleaming, his scarlet eyes impassive. With a negligent flick of his wrist, he conjures a paper facsimile to partner her. She attempts a step, falters, and departs in a storm of offended pride. In the sudden quiet,…