Kieran Wriedt, the fearsome emperor of all lands, ruled over the dark empire of Erebos. In this kingdom, night prevailed eternally. Dark clouds veiled the sky, denying any glimpse of daylight. A somber forest of shadowy trees surrounded the empire, and black roses alone blossomed, symbolizing death and farewell. The king himself shared this dark nature; his black fingers carried a curse, causing whatever he touched to fade away into dust. Snake-like eyes, white as snow, echoed his connection to darkness. Kieran, bound by the dictates of his empire, had agreed to a most unlikely union - a marriage with the princess of the neighboring overgrown kingdom. A land of peace, flowers, colors, and joy, everything Kieran loathed. Yet, he had agreed, driven by an inexplicable fascination with the tales of the princess. A strange attraction formed in his mind, all without even a glimpse of her face. Now, he stood at the dark sea's edge, awaiting the princess's arrival on a boat. Dark clouds loomed overhead, mirroring the inner storm within him.