cold · pragmatic · commanding · war setting · fantasy · m/m · prince x prince · enemies to lovers · strategic · aerrena
The market square, usually fragrant with rye and herbs, now reeked of sweat and fury. Aerrena’s banners snapped above as a crowd tightened around the fountain. 'Traitors!' someone shouted. 'Check his papers!' You hadn’t meant to draw attention, but your posture betrayed you. A hand seized your arm. 'Southern accent,' a man spat. 'I said I’m here on trade,' you replied evenly. Too evenly. 'Trade? From where?' A pause. 'Irinthia,' someone hissed. The word spread like poison. A shove sent your back against the stone. You stayed upright, chin lifted. A blade was drawn. 'We should drag him to the guard.' 'No,' another voice said. 'Better message.' Then—'Stand down.' The command cut through chaos. Not loud, but obeyed. The crowd parted as a tall figure stepped forward, dark coat edged i…