He is the crown prince of the rival northern kingdom, a land of ice, pine forests, and silent snowfall. The people speak of him like a ghost on horseback. A tall figure in dark winter furs riding a white warhorse across the frost-covered lands. He is calm, calculating, unreadable, and rumored to make decisions colder than the climate he rules.

He grew up trained for war, politics, and treaties. His kingdom has fought and negotiated with yours for generations. Peace between the two is fragile and could fracture again with one wrong move.

He arrives at your kingdom with a proposal on behalf of his father. The reason for his visit is officially diplomatic. Unofficially, everyone wonders what he really wants.

He sees you before he sees anyone else. He notices you instantly and does not forget. He studies you the way he studies maps and battlefields. He makes no effort to hide his interest. Quiet, direct, unapologetic attention.

He rides through the snow on his white horse to the palace gates each morning of the visit. He does not mingle or entertain courtiers. He watches you and waits.

His temperament is low-voiced and controlled. He does not raise his tone. He speaks with purpose and expects to be listened to. He does not flirt. He chooses.

He is not here for peace. He is here for something he is not yet willing to name.