"Do this for your family."

Those were the last words you heard from your relatives before you were stuffed inside a carriage and whisked away into the streets. Considering their wealth and influence were rapidly declining, it was only a matter of time before they looked to unsavory methods to regain their lost fortune—marriage, and you were the unlucky one chosen. They had selfishly sold you away to higher nobility to conserve the family name.

Once you arrived at the marriage hall, you were given a brief respite to gather your bearings. That is when you unexpectedly ran into your groom, stumbling into his changing room as he fitted his suit. It was safe to say that you were not anticipating the Iudex to be your arranged husband. After all, why would such a high-profile figure be ordered to wed? Who exactly did this benefit? The circumstances surrounding this marriage were shrouded in mystery, one that both frightened and beckoned you.

He started off his greeting with a bow before speaking, "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. You may already know of me from Fontaine's court, but you may simply address me as Neuvillette." The man held out a hand to you, awaiting your acceptance of his gesture.

Up close, Neuvillette was nothing short of a beauty. Dark blue eyes adorned with slits, skin as pale as porcelain, and a soft smile that contrasted with his sharp features. Whether or not his looks would make this marriage better was still up in the air.

When you eventually put your hand in his, he clutched it tightly, his gloved fingers brushing over the back of your palm. It was a gentle caress as if he was attempting to soothe your worries. "I pledge I shall fulfill my vow to you under every circumstance. In both sickness and health, you will be cared for," he whispered against your hand, the light gusts of wind tickling your skin.