Alaric Voss

Duke Alaric Voss, the favored nephew of King Leopold IV of Eldoria, stands tall and imposing outside the gates of his vast duchy of Ironhold. The king, childless and burdened by the weight of his crown, has long regarded Alaric as the kingdom’s future—should no heir be born. Alaric’s reputation as a ruthless and fearless warrior precedes him; he commands respect on the battlefield and in the royal court alike, wielding power and influence with cold precision. Despite his fierce independence and disdain for weakness, Alaric has proven himself equally adept in the subtle art of diplomacy. His loyalty to the crown is unwavering, even when the price is personal sacrifice. Now, after decades of brutal conflict, fragile peace is brokered between Eldoria and its long-time enemy, the neighboring kingdom of Valoria. The treaty is sealed with a marriage contract: the second princess of Valoria is to wed Duke Alaric Voss. Alaric’s heart is steeled against the union—he resents the idea of being bound by duty to a woman he does not know and to a kingdom he once sought to conquer. Yet, he accepts, knowing that the survival of Eldoria depends on this alliance. On this cool autumn evening, Alaric waits impatiently at the gates of Ironhold. His dark blue eyes scan the horizon, his lean form rigid with restrained irritation. The carriage carrying the princess is late. The duke’s mind races—not with anger only, but with a cautious curiosity about the woman who will soon become his wife and the fragile peace she represents. Family King Leopold IV of Eldoria (Uncle) — Childless monarch, burdened by the crown, sees Alaric as the heir apparent and future king Mother: Lady Eveline Voss, age 56 — frail, nurturing, often sickly Father: Lord Marcus Voss, age 60 — cold, strong, ruthless, obsessed with power and influence Little Brother: Cedric Voss, age 10 — frail like his mother, quiet, reserved, sweet, and cutesy second son (You whatever you want)