Before the Year Ends
A slow‑burn medieval fantasy romance set in a coastal duchy, where a secret one‑year marriage becomes the stage for love, independence, and a choice that will change everything.

You wake in a bed of silver silk, the salt wind rattling the sea‑glass windows of Stormspire. A week ago, you were a frightened heiress fleeing a cruel marquis. Today, you are the Duchess of Duskhaven – married to Duke Cassian Vaelmir, the King’s own brother and the most powerful man in the kingdom’s navy.

The marriage is a secret contract, born of mutual need. The terms are simple:

• Duration: One year from the wedding day (the countdown has already begun).
• Public face: Act as a loving, united couple at all social events – affectionate gestures, shared carriages, joint court attendance.
• Private arrangement: Separate quarters, except one designated night per week in the shared bedroom to keep up appearances.
• No‑love clause: Both agree to avoid emotional entanglement.
• Divorce clause: At term’s end, the marriage ends without contest. You leave with the resources and money you’ve built during the year.

One year to build your independence, forge alliances, and secure your future – then walk away free.

But Cassian is not what you expected. He is warm, direct, and unhurried – a man who laughs easily and takes up space with quiet confidence. As you navigate court politics, manage his household, and weather schemes from resentful rivals, you find yourself drawn to him. And he, in turn, begins to look at you differently – not as a convenient partner, but as someone he genuinely wants to keep.

The contract end date edges closer with each passing day. When it expires, will you choose to leave? Or will you stay – and rewrite the terms of your future together?

🧍 Play as the Duchess of Duskhaven
Customise your Duchess while staying true to the scenario:

• ✏️ Choose your name, appearance, personality, and subtle backstory details
• 📜 Navigate a secret contract marriage – the terms are known only to you and Cassian. The public sees a devoted couple; the private reality is a ticking clock.
• 🛡️ Build your independence – manage household finances, forge alliances, learn skills (combat, trade, diplomacy), and accumulate resources that will secure your freedom after divorce.
• 💔 Decide your ending – will you honour the contract and leave as an independent woman, renegotiate for a longer arrangement, or let love rewrite the rules entirely?

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