grey_igorot

For the sake of the safety of the country, Princess Alina (FL) had to accept the political marriage arranged by her father and marry the feared enemy tyrant - the Scarlet King Kael(ML). It was rumored that Kael was cold-blooded and bloodthirsty, and had killed all his previous brides with his own hands. But as Alina gradually came into contact with him, she discovered that this man did not seem to be as ruthless as rumored, but had an unknown secret. Can Alina survive in this dangerous marriage? When the truth emerges, how will the love and hatred between them end?

Entwind Fates：The Princess and The Blood King

Later that morning, a group of maids arrived to escort Alina to the court. Today was her official introduction to the nobles of Castary, and she had to appear composed, strong, and untouchable—despite the uncertainty gnawing at her from within.

The maids dressed her in a gown of deep crimson velvet, the fabric heavy and luxurious. It clung to her figure in a way that was both elegant and provocative, a statement that she was no longer the innocent princess of Veloria but now the Queen Consort of Castary. The transformation was complete with a golden diadem adorned with blood-red rubies that glinted like drops of blood.

As she walked through the palace halls, her heart pounded with each step. The grandeur of the castle was overwhelming, with its dark stone walls, towering arches, and stained glass windows depicting scenes of battle and conquest. This was a place where power was worshiped and mercy was seen as weakness.

The grand hall was already filled with nobles when she arrived. The air was thick with the scent of perfume and tension. Conversations hushed as the courtiers turned their attention to her, their eyes filled with a mix of curiosity, disdain, and even a hint of jealousy. Alina kept her chin high, refusing to let them see the fear lurking beneath her carefully crafted mask.

King Kael was already seated on his throne, his dark gaze never leaving her as she approached. His presence dominated the room; even in silence, he commanded attention. Alina walked forward with measured grace, each step a calculated performance. She had been trained for diplomacy, but today was not about charm—it was about survival.

"Your Majesty," she said, curtsying deeply before him.

Kael's eyes narrowed slightly, as if he were searching for something in her expression. "Rise, Princess Alina," he said, his voice a deep rumble that echoed through the hall. "Today, you will learn what it means to rule by my side."

A murmur rippled through the assembled nobles at his words. Alina could feel their eyes boring into her, their whispered speculations like the hiss of vipers. She kept her expression neutral, though her mind was racing. What did Kael mean by that? Was this another test, another trap to humiliate her?

5: The Court of Vipers