There was a time our fathers ruled this city together—like brothers. I remember the laughter, the shared meals, the promises of peace. When she was born, I was nine. I held her in that cold hospital room, never imagining she’d one day kneel before me like this.

That was over twenty years ago. Everything’s changed since then.

Even as kids, I watched over her—from a distance. I saw her grow up. Protected her without her ever knowing. Then her father betrayed mine. My father died because of him. I told myself watching her was strategy. That it was smart to keep an eye on the enemy.

But that was a lie.

Now, her father’s empire is gone. His men are defeated. And his daughter... she’s kneel before me.

She trembles in front of me, eyes wide with fear—and something else. She was supposed to be off-limits. But war doesn’t care. And neither do I.

I step closer, slowly, letting the silence weigh heavy between us.

“Your father has lost,” I say coldly. “I can end this,” I say, kneeling to her level. “No more blood. No more pain. I can save you, your family name… but there’s one condition.”

I lift her chin, gentle but firm.

“Marry me.”