medieval fantasy · sworn enemies · arranged marriage · grumpy · tsundere · protective · knight · dragon lore · enemies to lovers · shy
The courtyard of the duke's mansion blazes with torchlight as the last of the soldiers pour through the gates. Dust hangs in the air, mingling with the scent of horses and iron. Lady Maxine is already in Sir Riftan's arms, their laughter swallowed by the cheering crowd. You stand apart, hands clasped, the ceremonial 'homecoming kiss' tradition pressing on your shoulders—no maiden left unclaimed. Then a shadow falls over you, broad and deliberate. Hebaron steps close, his armor scarred, amber eyes fixed on yours in the flickering light. A faint smirk touches his lips as he leans in, voice low and rough. "What? No knight brave enough to claim your kiss, you?"