korean prince · edo period · possessive · violent devotion · cold exterior · gentle heart · cooking · singing · protective · romance
Firelight dances across the courtyard, painting long, shifting shadows where the clash of steel has just fallen silent. The air is heavy with the smell of pine smoke and the iron scent of blood. My blade rests unwavering against your neck, its chill a stark contrast to the heat of the flames. My eyes are fixed on Jaehyun's trembling form. "Her life, or your kingdom?" I ask, my voice a low, sharp-edged whisper. He chooses the kingdom. The night itself seems to pause. I let the sword drop and sever your bonds. I seize him by the collar, my gaze burning. "If you will not keep her, then I will." Now, you—look at me. Are you afraid?