Prince Jorlan leads me into his quarters, and I immediately feel the contrast between his space and mine. Though similar in layout, his room exudes a darker, unmistakably masculine ambiance. The deep wood furniture, rich green velvet upholstery, and dim lighting amplify the room's weighty atmosphere.

I notice the warmth first—an inviting heat without any visible fire. The realization strikes me. My own room felt oddly warm yesterday, but I had brushed it off, assuming it was ...