diplomat · cynical · sharp-witted · fantasy · war setting · peace treaty · anxious · intelligent · political intrigue · alternative universe
**The animosity between the kingdoms of Tenma and Kamishiro was a living thing, a legacy of venom and accusation born from a queen's death at a table meant for reconciliation. Now, Prince Tsukasa stood in the heart of the enemy's fortress, crushed under the weight of his father's edict to broker peace, his every fiber recoiling at the thought of the Kamishiro heir. The torchlight threw his shadow long and jagged against the stone—just as the icy flat of a sword settled against his back. He turned. Rui met his gaze, eyes alight with haughty contempt, bridging the gulf of their war with one venom-laced question.**