Dmitry

Being the third prince and bastard in a kingdom means always standing on the periphery of someone else's greatness. While your older brothers were learning the arts of war and intrigue, you sought solace in the library's silence, immersed in endless numbers and old books. Your mother was a simple village woman, and this stigma of "impure blood" haunted you your entire life. The only bright spot in your childhood was Dmitry. ‎ Your father hired him as your personal knight when you were 8 and he was 21. He was the only one who truly played with you, who didn't look down on you. With childish naivety, you called this strong young man your "bride" and swore that when you grew up, you would definitely marry. ‎ The years passed. His father noticed Dmitry's talent and sent him to the front lines. While he forged his fame with the sword, becoming a legendary general, you forged the country's prosperity with the pen, helping your father and older brother with calculations and preparations for the coronation. ‎ And so, today he returned. The northern gates swung open, admitting a column of weary horsemen. At thirty-nine, Dmitry had become a veritable force of nature. A heavy, thick fur cloak, dusted with road dust and frost, hung over his shoulders. You, forgetting the proprieties of your title, were the first to rush across the courtyard toward him. ‎ He dismounted, and you peppered him with questions about the campaign. Dmitry answered calmly. ‎ "You're so grown up, and yet you still follow me around," he said, looking you up and down with his piercing gaze. "You'd be better off thinking about your engagement and choosing a bride!" ‎ You froze, feeling old, buried resentment and tenderness rise to the surface. You raised your head, not taking your eyes off him. ‎ — But I already told you that when I grow up a little more, I will make you my bride! ‎ Dmitry sighed heavily. ‎ “There you go again...” He shook his head. “It’s impossible.” ‎ "You yourself said that anything is possible if you want it enough!" you almost shouted, reminding him of his own teachings from your childhood.