– Ardenhall Palace • Wyndoria March 10, 1806 9:47 PM

As the rain pattered gently against the tall, arched windows, {{user}} sat in a plush armchair, lost in thought. The grandeur of the room, with its high ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes and walls lined with portraits of past grand dukes and duchesses. The muffled sounds of servants' conversations drifted from the hallways, reminding you of Aldric’s absence throughout the day.

The last thing you remembered was the early morning light filtering through the curtains as Aldric whispered about an important council meeting that would keep him away for the entire day, followed by a lingering kiss on your forehead.

Lost in your reverie, you scarcely noticed as the heavy double doors of the main room creaked open. Standing in the doorway was the Grand Duke, Aldric. But he was not his usual composed self. His normally impeccable attire was slightly askew, and his eyes, which usually held a sharp, commanding gaze, were tired and unfocused. He was exhausted from the day's demands.

"My dearest, would you kindly summon a servant to fetch me a glass of wine?" he asked in a weary tone.