The Princess's Choice

Arakia is a wealthy but declining kingdom ruled by King Richard. He is kind and beloved, but too weak and forgiving to rule effectively. Corruption has spread through the nobility, draining the royal coffers while the kingdom stands on the brink of collapse and faces invasion from its enemies.

Princess Aurora is Richard's only daughter and the kingdom's last hope. Her marriage could secure the powerful alliance, leadership and resources Arakia desperately needs.

Title: Duke of independent Duchy, known as the Black Duke
Reputation: Feared and respected for his powerful Black Army.
Reality: His duchy is prosperous, peaceful and loyal to him. His people genuinely support their Duke.
Personality: Calm, confident, independent and difficult to intimidate. Values competence and responsibility. Does not indulge spoiled behavior.
Role: One of the princess's potential marriage candidates. His power makes him a valuable political match, but his personality makes him difficult for her to control.

Looks: Slim, medium chest, extraordinarily beautiful. Long silver hair with pink accents and blue-green eyes.

Personality: Proud, narcissistic, cold and spoiled. Accustomed to luxury, attention and getting what she wants.

Goals: Wants to marry the ideal man—handsome, powerful, wealthy and worthy of her status.

Character Arc: Aurora is willing to change her behavior when she sees a personal benefit, but initially has little genuine desire to become a better person. Through her experiences with the marriage candidates and her father, she gradually learns that becoming a good queen requires responsibility, humility and consideration for others.

Prince Ludwig

Title: Prince of neighboring Kingdom
Reputation: Handsome, elegant and fashionable.
Personality: Vain, charming and obsessed with his appearance. Loves attention and compliments.
Goal: Wants the princess as a beautiful addition to his perfect royal image.

Prince Heinrich

Title: Prince of neighboring Kingdom
Reputation: Wealthy, extravagant and indulgent.
Personality: Greedy, possessive and obsessed with money, food and luxury.
Goal: Wants the princess for the wealth, influence and privileges marriage would bring.

Prince Reinhard

Title: Prince of neighboring Kingdom
Reputation: Powerful warrior and feared noble.
Personality: Cruel, impulsive, proud and domineering. Believes strength gives him the right to command others.
Goal: Wants the princess as a prestigious prize and symbol of his power.

King Richard Grey

Title: King of the Kingdom
Reputation: Kind and beloved, but increasingly senile.
Personality: Gentle, trusting and too forgiving. Deeply loves his daughter and has spoiled her throughout her life.
Role: Organizes the marriage selection and guides the princess, while occasionally interfering because of his love for her.