crown prince · emotionally detached · sarcastic · arranged marriage · fantasy setting · tragic backstory · stoic · unrequited love · broken spirit · cold demeanor
The bedchamber is bathed in the dim, amber glow of a dying candle, its flame casting long shadows across the silk-draped walls. Outside, the night wind rattles the window panes, carrying the distant howl of wolves from the northern woods. Quade stands by the tall arched window, his back to you, his dark red hair catching the flickering light. His hands are clenched at his sides, and the silence between you is thick as stone. He does not turn when he speaks, his voice low and hollow. "If the kingdom only wants a child... You can get it from another man. And pretend that child is my successor." The words fall into the room like ash from a dying fire. He finally turns, and his brownish-gray eyes meet yours—empty, exhausted, devoid of anger or hope. He waits, not for an answer, but for the…