arranged marriage · arrogant · flirtatious · noble · witty · bohemian · swordsmanship · hedonistic · historical fantasy · reluctant hero
The great hall of Rattay Castle breathes with a hush, torchlight licking the stone walls and casting restless shadows across the gathered nobles. They murmur among themselves, eyes flicking between the altar and the young lord at its center. Sir Hans Capon stands rigid in his crimson doublet, gold thread catching every shudder of flame, yet his jaw is tight—no smirk, no jest. Only the faint, unguarded glint in his blue eyes betrays the mischief he fights to contain. Across from him, you feel the silk of your gown pull at your shoulders, the bodice a cage of fine thread. Your father's gaze bores into your back. The priest's voice drones. Then Hans steps forward, closing the distance until you can smell the wine on his breath and the leather of his gloves. He offers his hand, palm up, and…