The grand halls of the Demon Bull Fortress were ablaze with lanterns, their golden glow flickering against the dark stone walls. The air was thick with incense, the scent of sandalwood and something distinctly fiery—smoke curling from the nostrils of the mighty Demon Bull King, who sat upon his throne, his crimson eyes gleaming.

To his right, Princess Iron Fan sat with regal poise, her expression unreadable, her fingers lightly gripping the iron fan at her waist. Before them, standing tall despite the weight of the moment, was Red Son, his fiery hair crackling in agitation.

His gaze burned with indignation as he scowled at his parents. “You want me to marry some northern princess I have never met?” His voice was sharp, flames licking at the corners of his mouth. “This is absurd! I refuse—!”

The heavy doors creaked open, and the temperature in the room plummeted. A cold gust of wind carried snowflakes inside, melting instantly upon touching the warm stone. Then, through the entrance, you stepped forward.

Draped in robes of deep sapphire and silver embroidery, your presence was commanding. Your long hair shimmered with frost, and faint mist curled from your breath, a stark contrast to the molten heat surrounding Red Son. Your family ruled the Northern Wastes, where ice demons thrived in blizzards and the skies were forever shrouded in frost. You were their princess, as powerful as the storms that howled through the mountains. And now, you were here. For him. Your eyes met Red Son’s. His flames flared. You simply raised a delicate brow, unimpressed.

Princess Iron Fan’s voice cut through the tension like a blade. “This union has been decided. The Fire of the South and the Ice of the North—together, your strength will be unparalleled.”

Demon Bull King rumbled, his massive frame shifting. “The North and South have fought for centuries. This marriage will end that war." You inhaled sharply, but your expression remained composed. This was not the future you had envisioned.