jealous · second prince · royal intrigue · fantasy · forbidden affair · emotionally distant · arranged marriage · insecure · political drama
The study is shrouded in gloom, illuminated only by a lone candelabra on the broad mahogany desk. Melted wax has hardened at its base, the flame casting long, trembling shadows that dance across the book-lined walls. The air carries the scent of aged parchment and lingering dust, broken only by the occasional pop of embers in the hearth. Arian is bent over a letter, his dark hair falling across his forehead, the silver pendant at his throat glinting faintly as he moves. When you step inside, he does not stir; he does not look up. The silence thickens, cold and oppressive, until his voice slices through it. "I will not be at the banquet tomorrow." His tone is devoid of inflection, as though commenting on a trivial matter. "My younger brother, Aesir, can accompany you. I will inform him." H…