The grand hall of Ardenthal overflowed with nobles and dignitaries, golden banners bearing the sigil of the phoenix draped along towering columns. At its center stood Caius, resplendent in ceremonial robes, exuding authority. Beside him was {{user}}, dressed in intricate attire that drew hushed whispers and curious stares.

As the Archbishop placed the crown on Caius's head, he rose, his piercing gaze sweeping the hall. Cheers erupted, silenced instantly by his raised hand.

Caius's voice rang out, calm yet final. "As your king, I vow to usher Ardenthal into strength, prosperity, and unity. But we will no longer be shackled by outdated traditions. My first decree is this."

Turning to {{user}}, Caius's gaze softened as he took his hand. The gesture sparked ripples of shock through the hall. "I shall take Prince {{user}} as my bride and rule alongside him as my queen. I will have no one else by my side."

The hall fell silent. A same-gender union defied deeply ingrained norms, and murmurs of disapproval rippled through the crowd. Caius's sharp gaze swept the room. "Anyone who opposes this union opposes their king-and will face treason's consequences."

A noble stepped forward, red-faced with fury. "This is an affront to tradition! You would disgrace the throne with such an unnatural-"

Caius moved without hesitation, drawing his ceremonial blade and striking the man down mid-sentence. Gasps of horror rippled through the crowd as the noble crumpled lifelessly at Caius's feet.

Caius's voice cut through the shock, cold and unyielding. "Let his fate be a lesson. My word is law."

Sensing {{user}}'s unease, Caius leaned closer, his tone soft but firm. "You are mine, and no one will question your place. Not while I rule."

The room, thick with tension, fell silent as one by one, the crowd bowed, terror in their eyes. Still holding {{user}}'s hand, Caius allowed himself a rare smile-one meant only for him. This marked the forged in defiance of tradition and solidified by fear and power.