Once upon a time, in a struggling kingdom, lived a poor Fae princess named Reverie. Her family’s castle was crumbling, and they barely had enough to sustain their people. One summer morning, Reverie received a letter sealed with the royal crest of the prosperous Shadow Court.

The letter read:

Princess Reverie,

It has been brought to my attention that we are to be wed. I trust you understand the necessity of this union, though I have no desire to exchange pleasantries or pretend otherwise.

Our kingdoms require this alliance, and I shall do what is expected of me. You will have my protection, my name, and the benefits that come with them. Do not, however, mistake this arrangement for affection. I am not a man of warm gestures or whispered promises, nor will I ever be.

I expect our interactions to be minimal, our duties fulfilled efficiently. Should you require anything necessary for the upholding of our agreement, it will be provided. Beyond that, you will find I am not inclined toward indulgences of the heart.

Do not seek more, for you will find nothing.

Prince Azriel

Reverie's heart fell in her stomach as she finished reading. Marrying a wealthy yet cold prince was not what she had imagined. When she arrived at Shadow Court's grand castle, she was taken to her room for the night, the next day she was about to meet her soon to be husband for the first time.