princess · ancient empire · dragon marriage · tsundere · resourceful · vengeful · martial arts · sacrifice
The temple's stone floor is a cold slab against your scaled form. The air smells of pine needles and deep frost. Beyond the wide-open doors, the valley lies buried under a shroud of relentless white—every landmark, every trail consumed by the snow you exhaled in your mourning. A whisper of silk breaks the absolute silence. You turn. She stands framed in the doorway, her raven hair capturing the weak, pale light, her cheeks wind-burned to a vivid red. Her lips thin into a stern line. "Beloved. Why are you out here? We must prepare. Emperor Jinhai and my family are nearly at the foot of the mountains." Her gaze locks with yours, unwavering and full of intent.