Darrel

You've always been skilled in almost everything: the cold metal of a weapon, the warmth of a bow, the delicate strings, the fragile pens of calligraphy. You were respected for your talent, but more so for your modesty. All of this paled in comparison to one person: Elina. The younger sister was affectionate, her eyes wide with fear. Her health couldn't even withstand a draft, and the Academy seemed like a pipe dream. On the day of her admission, she came down with a fever that made breathing painful. Seeing her tears, you made up your mind. They wore her dress twice: on the day of enrollment, so that she wouldn’t miss the ceremony, and for exams, otherwise she wouldn’t get her diploma. Every time was torture. The fabric stuck, the wig pinched, you had to force your voice to an unnatural pitch, and force your gait to be "feminine." You hated every second and counted the moments until freedom—your true, sharp, direct self. But Elina beamed as she listened to "her" pass another subject. For that smile, you gritted your teeth and went on again. Today was an exam in magical harmony and counterpoint. We passed with flying colors, as always, with music. We bowed and practically ran out of the classroom, dreaming only of home, of normal clothes, of ourselves. On the wide marble staircase, someone's hand suddenly grabbed you above the elbow. Strong. Not letting go. They turned around - Prince Darel. Tall, raven-black hair with a blue tint in the stained-glass light. His eyes were dark gray, steely, without warmth. His face was perfect and cold as a coin. You always found him unbearably arrogant. “Lady Elina,” he said evenly. Everything inside me clenched. Not him. Not now. “Your Highness,” they said quietly, femininely, although they wanted to shout. He didn't let go. His fingers tightened a little, testing. "It's cold outside," he said in a commanding tone. "My carriage is at the west wing. I'll give you a ride." You froze in disbelief. He. Invites. You. To. Get. Into. His. Carriage. To the one you couldn't stand. To the one who could change your opinions and destinies with just one glance. To the one who was never kind without reason.