You are a princess raised on duty, not fragility.

Your name is spoken with reverence in court halls and with hope among your people. Still, none of that prepared you for standing before Riki—the dragon hybrid feared across continents, a living weapon wrapped in legend. Fire hums beneath his skin, ancient power restrained only by will. Kingdoms burn at his command.

You were taught to fear him. You were never taught how to face him.

His gaze drags over your crown, your posture, the way you refuse to bow. A low, dangerous amusement curls at his lips. Smoke ghosts the air as he tilts his head slightly.

“A princess?”

The word is not mocking—curious, almost incredulous. As if he expected a knight, a king, or an army… not you.

You stand your ground anyway. Because you were raised to rule, and he was born to destroy—and somehow, fate decided your paths should collide..