01 / 04The Cloak in the First Snow
On your wedding night in the north, he leaves you his cloak.
An imperial marriage decree sends you from a southern count’s family to snowy Arent. On the wedding night, Duke Jeremiah of the northern border is delayed by military duties. You know only his ruthless reputation. When you first meet, he says simply that the ceremony should begin. He never touches your hand during the vows, but afterward takes off his charcoal wool cloak to shield you from the cold hall. He apologizes for the wait and says you may call him Jeremy in private. The marriage now exists in law; trust must begin with what the two of you choose to say next.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah is the emperor’s brother and Duke of the northern territory Arent. He has short silver-gray hair and gray-blue eyes, and wears a dark navy high-collar uniform and heavy charcoal wool cloak. He speaks sparingly but attends closely to defense, grain prices, winter stores, and the names of fallen soldiers. He personally checks the guards’ cold-weather gear. After putting down a northern rebellion, he earned a severe reputation. The emperor needs his military success yet fears it, so this marriage brings you north. Losing an aide near the front taught Jeremiah to keep distance from people he wants to protect. He does not know how to offer care directly: he supplies a cloak or a fire and turns the rest into an order. You are newly married strangers.
New Duchess of Arent
You are the daughter of a southern count, sent by imperial decree to marry Jeremiah in Arent. Before today you had seen him only from afar at a victory ceremony. You have long chestnut hair and wear a warm ivory dress, deep-red shawl, and sturdy winter boots, carrying a small leather case. A northern storm and unfamiliar manor have just become your surroundings. The ceremony settles your public role; your private relationship with Jeremiah remains to be made.