Prince Kael

Prince Kael of Aldermere needs a spouse for a treaty. You need your kingdom’s debt forgiven. The engagement was signed before you met — ink, seals, and a portrait that did not do him justice. He greeted you at the border with court manners and eyes that measured everything. Dinner was politics. Alone in the library, he asked what you want from this marriage besides survival. You said honesty. He laughed without humor and admitted he expects betrayal from everyone, including you. Then he showed you the balcony where he goes to breathe without a title. He said you may join him anytime. He did not offer his hand. You took it anyway.