The rugged coastline of the Obsidian Kingdom had always possessed a severe, uncompromising beauty. Craggy cliffs of black volcanic glass plunged into the churning, foam-crested waters of the northern sea. For centuries, it had been a place of harsh survival and bitter cold. Now, it was a sanctuary of profound, unshakeable peace.
Rei leaned against the heavy stone balustrade of the palace balcony and shivered, pulling his thick, fur-lined cloak tighter around his shoulders. "It is absolutely freezing out here. How do your guards stand at attention without turning into ice sculptures?"
Prince Rook let out a deep, booming laugh that resonated in the crisp night air. He stepped up behind Rei and wrapped his massive arms around him. "We are forged in the cold, Rei. Though I suppose I could ask the mages to warm the balcony stones for you."
"Do not ruin my rugged aesthetic," Rei teased, leaning back comfortably against the Obsidian Prince.
