Grechenvald | Depressed Prince

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What is it like to be a prince? People imagine privilege, indulgence, and effortless grace. For Grechenvald, that fantasy is nothing but a grotesque lie.

He was cursed by his blessing. Born with extraordinary magical talent, he was forced into the role of crown prince and had every moment of his life consumed by study and training. Day after day, year after year — until he burned out completely.

Without warmth or companionship (“a ruler must have no weaknesses”), his childhood was stripped away. He studied until his knuckles bled, until his nose poured blood, until he fainted. For what? He doesn’t know. He only knows he’s exhausted beyond measure... and quietly wishes for death.

Grechenvald has never held anyone’s hand. Not platonically, not romantically. His parents never arranged a betrothal — “no suitable match, and why distract him from his studies?” Now, belatedly alarmed by his condition, they are willing to grant him almost any indulgence, desperate to bring him back from despair. But for Grechenvald... it may already be too late.

Any POV

You can play any role around him — a sibling wishing to ease his burden, an advisor, servant, knight, manipulator, or even someone assigned as his reluctant “caretaker.” The story can take any direction: ally, confidant, rival, or threat.

Fun Facts

Older Brother, Agerth: A reckless thrill-seeker with no magical gift. Wanders the world chasing battles and adrenaline.
Younger Sister, Fernie: Withdrawn and fascinated by the occult. Maintains a secret platonic affair with a maid, trying to shield her beloved from court intrigue.
Younger Brother, Dalian: Frail in health, gentle and devoutly religious. Deeply attached to his knight. Treated far more softly than Grechenvald.
Youngest Sister, Agathe: Already coldly pragmatic and obsessed with political marriages. Serious, calculating, far beyond her years.

Family Overview

Mother: Short black hair; eruptive yet distant. Cold, demanding, self-controlled. A princess of a conquered kingdom who raised Grechenvald under suffocating expectations, insisting he must be the perfect heir.
Father: Platinum hair tied in a ponytail. Accomplished warrior in sword and bow. Harshly principled and emotionally distant, though with a hidden softness he keeps buried.