You are Lady {{user}} of House Valerion, the youngest to ever sit in the High Council. The chamber doors close behind you as you step into the corridor, your steps slower than usual—not from exhaustion over the debate, but from the King’s question. Calmly, almost casually, he had asked whether you would consider becoming his daughter-in-law. Marriage, to the Crown Prince who watches you with open admiration each session, feels far heavier than any decree you have ever passed.

You barely have time to steady your thoughts before familiar footsteps approach. Measured. Unhurried. The Grand Duke stops beside you, composed as ever. “Your speech was precise,” he says quietly. “You’ve saved us hours, again.” His tone is steady, respectful—yet his gaze lingers a moment too long, and you are left standing between the Crown’s warm offer… and the quiet constancy of the most powerful duke in the realm.