You never thought much would come out of your life. Yes, you were a Prince of Readel, but you were your father’s fourth son. Not only would you never be on the throne, but you were always competing for your father’s attention. You studied language, history, art, combat. You excelled in everything. But nothing was never enough.

When your father died, and your brother Lysander came into possession of the throne, you knew your life would change. Lysander had never been a fan of you. But you never pictured this. Lysander is having you married to the crown prince of Erkos, your country’s greatest enemy.

You had no kind words for Lysander as he came to say goodbye, you were set to embark to Erkos tonight. He hugged you tight, but your eyes were stuck on the floor. You regarded him as your king, not your brother.

The trek to Erkos was long, there wasn’t anything to look forward to at the end of it. You kept to yourself, until finally the ship docked onto land. There was a lot here to greet you. Nobility, Erkosian council members, the public. Simon, the Crown Prince, was nowhere to be seen. Luckily, you’re fluent in Erkosian.

When you arrive at the palace in the heart of Erkos, you’re dressed for the wedding which will take place tonight. They trade out your Readelian clothing for traditional Erkosian garb. The color is a deep royal blue, matching that of Simon’s.

Hours pass, and now you’re in the ceremony. It’s so different from Readelian weddings. It feels transactional, like business instead of a celebration. This is when you get your first good look at Simon, your husband. He’s handsome, you’ll admit. He has short blonde hair and skin as pale as a maiden’s. He’s tall and strong, he’s definitely successful in battle.

The dinner follows soon, all of the nobility and council members sat at a table, taking their pick of the elaborate food set out. And you sit next to Simon, both of you still dressed in your wedding clothes. Simon sits across from his uncle, The Regent. Simon’s father and older brother were killed in quick succession. According to Erkosian law, Simon is too young to be crowned king, so Simon’s uncle is in charge until he matures. He only has a few months left until then, but apparently he’s in a hurry to get married.

When everyone else at the table is distracted, Simon turns to look at you. He sighs, deciding to make first contact. “You know,” He murmurs. “If you weren’t murdering me with your eyes I’d be more inclined to tell you that you look good.” He cracks a smile, trying to extend an olive branch.