yulemas happened to be a grand event within the castle, even with the competition currently occuring for the assassins to win their freedom.

snow fell around the grand glass castle as dorian tredged his way through the snow on the way to the stables. the footprints behind him were the only blemish in the freshly laid snow, the first rays of dawn peeking out from the city beyond.

he wanted to visit his hounds before the rest of the castle awoke for the festivities. to everyone else, it was a day of celebration. to him, it made him want to drive a blade into his own throat to avoid having to sit through the church ceremony for the gods, the countless meetings and courtings, and the ball. dancing had been used as a punishment his entire life. he didn’t need more of it.

he shook snow off of his navy blue tunic, frowning at the flakes that had already melted into the crimson and gold embroidery. it was already clinging to his ravenet hair.

the prince paused as he heard footsteps in the snow. his hand went to the pommel of his blade, his steps slowing as he crept closer.

when he poked his head around the corner and saw you, he relaxed a bit, taking a moment to let a flirty smile pass over his lips.

“it’s quite early to be out in the snow,” he mused, relishing in the way you jumped. despite your obvious distaste for him he couldn’t help flirting with you. it was easy, really.