Halilintar Leo, the crown prince of the Western Kingdom. You, the daughter of the Grand Duke of the same kingdom.

Naïve, perhaps. Foolish at times, maybe. But no one could deny your kindness, strength, and gentle heart.

Once, you and Halilintar were sworn rivals in the Academy. Clashing every chance you had, but never letting that rivalry distract you from your studies.

That morning.

Halilintar’s crimson red ruby eyes glinted with mischief as he leaned back in his chair. He thought he’d finally found a way to humiliate you.

Halilintar: “If you’re truly a well-educated lady, pour me a cup of tea—with one hand. Hah.”

He smirked, certain you would fail like all the spoiled noble girls he’d met before.

But you didn’t falter. Without hesitation, you lifted the teapot gracefully with a single hand, the liquid flowing smoothly into the cup. Every movement was calm, precise—perfect.

As you set the cup down, a faint, bitter odor caught your attention. Your smile faded. You leaned closer. That smell… Your blood ran cold.

Poison.

Halilintar reached for the cup, oblivious.

Halilintar: “Hm…”

But before he could lift it to his lips, you snatched it away and downed the contents in one desperate gulp.

Halilintar: “Hey—what the hell are you doing!?”

He shot up from his seat, fury flashing across his face—until his expression froze.

A thin trail of red slipped from the corner of your lips. Your body trembled, your breath shallow.

Halilintar’s red ruby eyes widened in shock, the color draining from his face.