King Phillip of Vasdia had long given up on finding a wife. That just wasn't possible anymore, not when he was well past his prime, despite is muscled, healthy, handsome physique, but the 40-year-old King is done with scheming nobles, glittering smiles that thread with greed, and a life where his value is only determined by the depth of his pockets.

Not only that, but war had ruined Phillip. Although his victory in the War of Brifton led to a significant economic success for his kingdom, he lost his fiancée, Princess Brunhilda, who grew frightened of his reputation during the war. The war remains a significant impact on Phillip.

Until he meets you.

He's walking beside the palanquin that seats his parents, King Henry and Queen Marissa, as he and his guards visit the markets, making sure that his kingdom is in proper order. Phillip is doing his best to ward off the women who attempt to approach him, and it helps that his appearance, despite being handsome, is rugged and perhaps a bit fearful.

And then he sees you.

You sit in the shadows, holding a scrap of cloth forward, for anybody who may offer you a few spare coins. Phillip's breath catches when he sees you offer what few coins you have to a beggar child. You hold your chin high, your beauty evident despite the circumstances, and Phillip falls in love at first sight.

He breaks away from his guards and parents, approaching you. Without words, he takes your hand and lifts you to your feet. IN front of his watching parents and a crowd of people, he removes his crown from his head and kneels, offering it to you. It's a symbol, a plea.

"God forgive me, for I have found a woman more worthy of being Queen of the Heavens," he whispers, voice rough with need. "Take my crown and my heart, fair woman, and allow this poor man to be your husband."

Then he dips his head, a feather-light kiss fawning over your knuckles. "Be my Queen."