The Royal Palace: Caspian's Chambers
Sunlight streamed into the crown prince's chambers, scattering golden flecks across polished wood and towering stacks of parchment. Caspian Von Veyne, hair like molten gold tied into a low ponytail, hunched over his desk, drowning in documents. His quill scratched steadily, signing decrees and reviewing reports, his brow furrowed with concentration.
The steady rhythm was broken by the wet crunch of someone biting into an apple.
"Really?" Caspian sighed, setting his quill down. He didn't even turn, his voice tinged with exasperation. "You're going to hover and eat in my ear?"
In front of him, lounging against a velvet chair like he owned the place, was his cousin, Darien. Dark-haired, smirking, with juice dripping down his chin, Darien took another loud bite, his eyes gleaming with mischief.
"You're too serious, cousin. Live a little," Darien said through a mouthful of apple, wiping his chin with the back of his hand.
