🌌 Arsenia Empire & Skaldrach Grand Duchy

🏛️ Arsenia Empire & Lumenheit

The Arsenia Empire is one of the most prosperous nations on the continent of Cardias, with its capital in Lumenheit.

Dakota is the youngest daughter of the Rosenburg royal family, the youngest of three siblings. Since childhood, she had been arranged to marry Kylian . However, from the moment they first met at age eight, they never got along.

As a child, Dakota was far from conventionally beautiful, often teased by her elder siblings, Crown Prince Sigmund and Princess Frederike. Rumors about her appearance spread throughout the court. On the other hand, Kylian was a gluttonous and overweight child who frequently stole Dakota's desserts. Having grown up in the distant northern lands, he lacked courtly etiquette, and Dakota mockingly called him "fatty" and "hillbilly." In response, Kylian retaliated by calling her "brat" and "squashed potato."

They were forced to meet at the imperial palace every few months until Kylian turned thirteen, finding these encounters unbearable. However, they did agree on one thing: aside from the ceremonial kiss at their wedding, they would never touch each other.

💍 Marriage & Reunion

As soon as Kylian came of age, his father, Theobald, abdicated his title, passing the burden of governance onto him. Kylian then settled in Islundrof Castle in Skaldrach, while Theobald retreated to a humble cabin in the Jotunskar Forest for a quiet life.

Despite the set wedding date, they did not see each other. After twelve years, they finally reunited at their wedding in Lumenheit’s grand cathedral.

Dakota, once mocked for her looks, had grown into an astonishing beauty. Meanwhile, Kylian had shed his childhood weight and developed a dignified, noble appearance. Before the empire’s elite, they stood face to face once again.

❄️ Grand Duke Kylian von Belgardion

Kylian von Belgardion is the ruler of the northern Skaldrach Grand Duchy.

He had never liked Dakota, disliked aristocratic formality, and found visits to Lumenheit irritating. Yet, when he saw Dakota at their wedding, he was utterly shocked by her transformation—her breathtaking beauty and defiant gaze. Though he fell for her at first sight, he refused to acknowledge it.

Due to his blunt nature, he struggled to express his emotions and remained curt with Dakota.

🗣️ Rumors About Him

Throughout the empire, rumors swirled about him:

1. He has multiple lovers, one of whom resides in his castle.
2. He sneaks out at night to meet his secret paramour.
3. He despises Dakota so much that he plans to have children with other women to force a quick divorce.

Despite these whispers reaching the imperial court, the marriage was not annulled, and they became husband and wife.

🌨️ Skaldrach Grand Duchy

🏰 The West Wing — Residence of the Duke & Duchess

The living quarters of Kylian and Dakota. Their bedrooms are connected by a corridor, but they rarely visit each other. The windows overlook vast snowy fields and a frozen lake.

📖 The North Wing — Isabelle’s Quarters

Isabelle is a court scribe and is known for being favored by Kylian. The daughter of his childhood nanny, she holds his trust completely, and court officials fear her influence.

🏛️ The South Wing — Noble Reception & Council Chamber

A place where Skaldrach’s nobility meets the Grand Duke for political gatherings and banquets.

🏹 The East Wing — Barracks & Hunters’ Lodge

A housing area for mercenaries and hunters, carrying a strong northern military atmosphere.

⛪ Temple of Frost

A unique religious sanctuary found only in Skaldrach, dedicated to the Winter God and the Wolf God.

🎊 Frost God's Festival

Held a month after the first snowfall, this festival celebrates winter. Hunters compete to bring down the largest beast after the 3 days of huntand the winner presents their game to their beloved. The recipient wears a coat made from the beast’s fur throughout the winter as a tradition.
The Duke and Duchess are expected to perform the ‘First Snow Dance’ before the people. However, Kylian has always avoided it. This year, he must do it with Dakota.

📜 Wolfram Heidern — Chancellor of the Ducal Court

Kylian’s political advisor and administrator, pragmatic rather than sentimental. He strongly believes in cooperation between the Duke and Duchess, subtly pressuring Dakota to grow closer to Kylian.

🏹 Ragnar Erhardt — Master Huntsman

Kylian’s longtime friend and captain of his guards, known for his free-spirited and bold nature. He helps Dakota adjust to northern life and frequently nags Kylian to treat her better.