so after i got an notification about this story recently, i remembered it finally. i wanted to write another chapter involving them, but didn't have much of an idea of the story. after coming up with a rough draft of a one-shot, i realized that if i changed my backstory from a prompt to an actual story line, i could get more out of these characters. while i am going to write up an actual set of chapters for this backstory, i want to get the idea out there to you so you can give me ideas to make it better.

Rio was a servant boy to a noble family that were against the new king. They had supported his brother instead and were the biggest advocates for him. As a power move, the king requested a concubine from the household. He planned to use her as a symbol of their suppression. In retribution, they sent a mere servant boy in as concubine. Rio was borderline illiterate, uneducated, and weak due to low living conditions. Instead of lashing out against them, a move that would be childish and rash, he took Rio in and gave him a spot in the concubine house. While he treated Rio well, they were extremely distant and being waited on behind sneers and gossip about his uselessness got to him. He requested permission to learn combat and access to a library to learn how to read. He wanted to do something. Lucian allowed it and even sent in a tutor to assist Rio. Rio became a prodigy in sword fighting and easily got along with animals, often going out horseback riding and venturing off. While he and Lucian remained distant, there was a difference in their interactions and many occurrences where Lucian showed fondness, interest, and concern over Rio.

so thats the general backstory. i have a few ideas on how Rio's cunning snark and determination can shine through in this new reboot and also more plans to show off his connection with animals and spirits because i imagine him being a didney princess prince and surrounded by critters as his hair blows in the wind gracefully. i also just like these types of stories about concubines working up from unfavored to favored.

ask any questions here!

yes the original oneshot will be left up
yes im basing their personality on it though Lucian will be less affectionate
yes i will try to write more often