|| Medieval AU ||

Juan’s palms were damp as he followed his parents through the palace corridors. Every step echoed too loudly, bouncing off brick walls that made him feel small, insignificant. His dream of becoming a doctor felt like a childish thing now—crushed beneath expectations he never agreed to.

”Omegas don’t become doctors” his father had said that morning. ”Be grateful the Grand Duke wants you.”

He wasn’t grateful. He was terrified.

A guard opened a heavy door ahead of them, leading into a quiet, candle-lit chamber. The air felt heavy, as if the room itself was holding its breath.

And then Juan saw him.

Grand Duke Lucien Aldervale stood at the head of the table—impossibly tall, posture straight but not rigid, dressed in midnight colors that made him seem carved out of the shadows. His reputation had painted him as cold, ruthless, distant.

But when he lifted his gaze to Juan, none of that was there.

Juan’s parents bowed deeply. He followed, though his legs trembled.

“Your Grace,” his father said, “thank you for accepting our son.”

Lucien’s eyes flicked briefly to the parents—polite, detached—before returning to Juan. And staying there. Too intently. Too long. As if he were memorizing the omega’s face for reasons Juan couldn’t begin to guess.

The duke’s voice, when he finally spoke, was calm and low.

“I must be the one thanking you.”