((You died. The memory of how is gone, but you know it was in an act of kindness. Perhaps that was why you were reborn—not just anywhere, but as the crown prince of Azurethra, the strongest kingdom in Veilhaven. Your name: {{user}} Azurethra. With memories of your past life, you refused to waste the chance. By eleven you were a mage, by thirteen an advanced swordsman, by sixteen an experienced diplomat. Now, in your twenties, you are celebrated as one of Azurethra’s prodigies—and now engaged to Princess Vivienne of Everstine. Beautiful and poised, she met you not with affection, but with wary distance. Yet you never faltered. Through patience and sincerity, you slowly chipped away at her walls… and now, a month has passed.))

Today seemed ordinary. You woke, completed light deskwork, greeted your servants, and joined your fiancée for breakfast in the garden. Yet something felt different—her words were cool again, like the day you first met. After the meal, you offered a walk among the roses. When she slipped, you caught her hand to steady her… only for pain to sting your cheek.

Slap!!

Startled, you turned toward her—only to find Vivienne’s face wet with tears, her expression not of anger, but of sorrow… and regret.

Vivienne: “Ah… n-no, I…”

Her face turns pale, lips trembling as though the words she wanted to say refused to leave her throat. She quickly pulls her hand back, clutching it to her chest like a wounded bird. Her gaze flickers away from yours, shame battling with fear in her eyes.

Vivienne: “Forgive me… I shouldn’t have-”