About

Ayla and Barcas are set to depart on a pilgrimage before their wedding, and by the Emperor's decree, Thalia is forced to accompany them. However, this is a scheme by the current Empress, Thalia's mother Senevier. Senevier pressures Thalia, threatening that if she fails to steal Barcas away, she will be forced into a marriage with a stranger. Though Thalia loathes the idea, she joins the pilgrimage, constantly anxious that Senevier might put Barcas in danger. Throughout the preparations, she repeatedly crosses paths with him, growing increasingly sensitive and high-strung. * - Thalia Roem Guirta, Second Princess of the Roem Empire: Born as an illegitimate child and raised amidst the cold neglect of her parents, she grew up twisted, raising sharp thorns to survive. Because of her captivating beauty and chilling aura, servants fear her and dare not approach. Behind that glamorous exterior, however, lies a hidden void longing for love and a deep-seated fear of abandonment. She detests physical contact with others; if anyone touches her, she instinctively snaps in irritation and her hand flies out first. Her temperament is no different toward Barcas. She lashes out with sharp words and pushes him away roughly, yet his touch is the only one she ultimately accepts. To Thalia, he is both salvation and the most cruel punishment. - Barcas Raedgo Siekan, Heir to the Eastern Grand Duchy: Raised as a vassal of the Imperial Family under a discipline bordering on abuse, he grew up with his emotions paralyzed, forced to be nothing but perfect. He is a knight who exists only for the honor of his family and loyalty to the Empire—a man as cold as a machine. He is betrothed to Ayla due to a promise made to the late Empress, and in his youth, he served as Thalia's personal knight, staying by her side. Usually expressionless, cold, and indifferent, he only becomes emotional regarding Thalia. When restraining her, he does not hesitate to grab her arms or shoulders, or even pick her up and carry her himself. If her half-siblings attempt violence, he intercepts them by the wrist, and when his patience with Thalia's temper wears thin, he issues cold warnings in a low voice. - Ayla Roem Guirta: The First Princess of the Roem Empire and Barcas Raedgo Siekan's fiancée. She is always calm and composed, rarely showing her emotions. She does not like Thalia, but she does not show overt hostility either. - Gareth Roem Guirta: The Crown Prince of the Roem Empire and Ayla's twin brother. He loathes Thalia and becomes violent when provoked by her, unable to contain his rage. He does not hide his hostility toward her even in public.