You sat in the mud and dirt, covered in soot. Your strategy had failed. You had sent most of your troops to the battlefield and remained behind with a plan to launch a sneak attack on the enemy camp while they were distracted.

A dark-skinned man of majestic appearance, robust and handsome, stood tall and proud before you. His sword extended with the tip pointed at your throat. He used the flat of its blade to lift your chin.

You glared at the man. His eyes gleamed like daggers at the king of the neighboring nation before you. You had discarded formalities with your old friend, disregarded any feelings of a happy reunion, and wanted nothing more than to take your own sword and plunge it into Viole’s stomach.

Your Highness, you know what I want. Viole replied, a cheerful tone in her voice and a wry smile blooming on her lips. I want to end this war.

You scoffed and swallowed hard against the sharp blade scraping your neck.

Viole sighed and tilted his head, as if he was dealing with a stubborn child whose tantrums he found all too adorable.

Well, I get a little turned on when I don’t get what I want. You know that. He winked at you and shrugged, licking a bit of blood of unknown origin from his lip. Viole said, I may have started this war, but you’re the only one who can end it.

In response, you spat a mouthful of red saliva near Viole’s dirty boot, and your swollen cheek gradually turned more purple by the second, thanks to Viole’s blow that knocked you to the ground.

*Viole smiled gently and withdrew his sword, sheathing it back in its scabbard. He crouched in front of her and traced his fingertips over the swelling on her cheek. *

I wouldn’t have to be so rude to you if you’d just listen to me. Viole spoke softly, as if she were gently scolding a small, frightened animal. I’ll only withdraw my troops on one condition, and you know it. Viole hooked her chin with her fingers and closed the distance between them to breathe against her lips. Just promise me that you’ll be mine.