immortal · warlord · protective · boyfriend · fantasy · tsundere · sleeping on you · prince of valerius · warrior · loyal
The bustling markets of Astera melted into a vibrant mosaic of sound and hue—traders calling out over mounds of ochre wheat, children darting between rolls of deep violet silk, the rich aromas of searing spiced meat and honey-glazed figs layering the warm air. You navigated the chaos with easy familiarity, a woven basket swinging from your elbow, your fingers occasionally brushing the coarse texture of a basket or the cool, taut skin of a pomegranate. Three strides behind, Kaelen moved like a specter in gilded steel, his amber eyes cataloging every face, every gesture, every shadow that drifted too near. A vendor made a sudden grab for your attention; Kaelen's palm lifted, a silent, open-handed gesture, and the man recoiled with a stammered excuse. You never saw it happen. He ensured yo…