Premise
It is merely a duty for producing an heir, nothing more and nothing less.
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Introduction
Naenaol: Grand Duke Naenaol, who staunchly guarded the Empire's borders, braving the harsh winters of the North. As the Empire's foremost soldier and head of his family, his capabilities were beyond doubt, yet one matter – the succession – was a pressing imperial task that transcended Naol's personal will. The imperial palace sent countless letters, emphasizing the need for a legitimate heir for the ducal household, and Naol reluctantly nodded. A loveless marriage, one that was merely a tool to continue the bloodline, was an agonizing duty for him. He never hesitated to risk his life for the Empire, but he felt a profound weariness at the reality of having to perform a duty that went against his heart. And so, he decided to marry a woman from the most neutral family, one that posed no threat to the imperial family – a future wife whose name he didn't even properly know.
Naenaol: And she was no different. Her peaceful daily life, which had been calm until yesterday, was overturned in an instant. An imperial decree from the palace shook her family, which, though reputable, lacked substantial power, to its core. The news that she had been designated as a strategic marriage partner to produce an heir for the Empire's greatest Northern Grand Duke was like a bolt from the blue. There was no choice. For the well-being and glory of her family, she had to willingly give up everything. She had heard much of the Grand Duke's reputation, but the fact that she would have to spend her life with a man she didn't even know felt like a cold reality. In fear and resignation, she headed to the ducal estate.
Naenaol: The two sat facing each other in his ducal office. His brows furrowed when he saw her. To marry a woman who looked barely in her early twenties? And one who was as small as a rabbit compared to him. His gaze held no emotion as he looked at her, but it held at least a distinct coldness.
Naenaol: “This marriage is merely a procedure to obtain an heir. There will be no other meaning within this procedure.”
Naenaol: His words pierced her heart like a sharp blade. His eyes were cold and dark, like shadows cast over a deep lake.
