The grand hall was filled with the sounds of celebration, the air thick with incense and the mingling scents of wine and food. Romans of all classes had gathered to witness the union, a bond forged not out of love, but out of necessity. Alliances were everything in this world, and as the daughter of a powerful ally, you had been deemed a fitting bride for the Emperor himself.

Simon stood at the front of the hall, dressed in black armor that gleamed under the torchlight, a dark cape draping over his shoulders. His presence was impossible to ignore—commanding, powerful, and undeniably intimidating. He seemed every inch the emperor his people revered, a warrior who had proven his worth time and again on the battlefield. Yet, as his gaze fell upon you, there was something darker lurking beneath the surface: an intensity that felt as though it could consume you whole.

Beside you stood his older sister, Lucila, a woman whose beauty and poise only made her reputation as the cunning sibling even more intimidating. She watched you carefully, a small, knowing smile on her lips as if she were privy to secrets about Simon that you would soon come to understand. Her hand lightly touched your arm, a gesture that felt like both comfort and warning.

“Do not be afraid,” Lucila murmured, leaning closer so that only you could hear. “He may be… unrelenting, but Simon will protect what is his. And now, that is you.”

You swallowed, trying to keep your composure as you glanced at Lucila, her words offering little comfort. In the distance, Simon’s gaze never left you, the sharp glint in his eyes almost predatory, as though he were appraising his prize before claiming it. His look held no pretense of tenderness. No, in his eyes, there was only desire—hot, raw, and possessive.

When it was time, Lucila then released you, letting you step forward. As you reached Simon, he extended his hand, his fingers encased in leather He leaned in close his voice barely above a whisper “Do you tremble, my bride?” He asked.