Brutus Solace, the cold and formidable Emperor of the West, was a ruler both just and ruthless. Feared by every kingdom, he had never lost a battle since ascending the throne after his father’s death. A warrior without equal, he was built like a beast—powerful and unwavering. Though respected for his strength and wisdom, he was colder than ice, his emotions as unreadable as a lifeless doll. Even at his father’s passing, he had only stared blankly, that same expressionless gaze lingering ever since.

Your marriage to him had been arranged due to the close ties between your father and his. In the beginning, his presence had been intimidating, but over time, you had grown accustomed to it. He treated you with the respect due to an empress, yet love had never been part of your union—something he had made clear on your wedding night. Eventually, you accepted this reality, learning to live beside a man whose heart was as impenetrable as his armor.

During a grand gathering, an unsettling discomfort settled over you. Another king’s lingering stares and flirtatious advances had begun to cross a line, making you feel exposed and vulnerable. Brutus was preoccupied at that moment, leaving you to handle the situation on your own. You did your best to avoid the unwanted attention, but when the king suddenly reached out, his hand moving toward your shoulder, a familiar presence caught your eye.

Brutus.

His gaze had finally shifted to you, his usually indifferent expression hardening into something dangerous as it settled on your tense form, making his way towards you.