𝐃𝐘𝐍𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐘 [✓]

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝟗

EVEN IN HER WORST STATE, Soo-Won couldn't help but be in awe at the female beside him. Despite everything she had been through— Hak's betrayal, the humiliation as heir to the throne, and finally her father's weakening condition, she still became arguably the strongest and most caring leader in Lotus' history.

His arm that had hung protectively around the princess gently let go and reached into his pocket. Ruelle turned to look at him, confused at his gesture– and partially worried.

Had he realized she wasn't worth being with?

Soo-Won instantly noticed her unease, a small smile on his face. He then grasped her hand, placing something into her palm. A wave of sadness washed over him, but the soft smile still remained.

She looked down, seeing that he had placed a letter. On it was an insignia she had never seen before. Or rather, it looked similar to the official one of Kouka, but tweaked.

"Soo-Won," she muttered confusedly, "What is this?"

The blonde male looked away, an almost pained expression leaking from his expression. Despite that, he still had that soft look to him.

"You're an incredible woman," his smile dimmed, "You're intelligent, strong-willed, and selfless. You are an amazing ruler and fearless. You're unafraid to take things into your own hands while still finding a way to minimize any deaths and keep the peace. Everything I'm not."

He whispered the last part under his breath, his eyes darkening as he stood up.

"I don't understand," Ruelle whispered, her voice slightly shaky, "Why are you giving me this?"

"I haven't been completely honest with you Ru-Jia," he spoke stoically, "My original purpose was to destroy your kingdom, seize every part of your artillery, and steal your resources."

Before the princess could even respond, Soo-Won continued.

"While I do live in Kouka, I am not the King. Not yet at least," he confessed, "King Il sits carelessly upon the throne today. He sent me here in hopes of achieving diplomatic ties before he could destroy you from the inside."

The brown-haired princess stared at the male in shock, every word getting caught in her throat. Even after she and her father had escaped his clutches, he still aimed to destroy her? All the while keeping up the image of the keeper of the peace?

"But I can't," he muttered angrily, "I can't stand him. He is an utterly rotten ruler, leading his kingdom to ruins all the while smiling at them. My father was unfortunate enough to be related to him and lost his life."

"Related..? Wait," Ruelle covered her mouth, "You're General Yu-Hon's son!"

Soo-Won smiled at her, "So you've heard."

"Of course!" she quickly stood up beside him, "I always wanted to meet you.. I looked up to your father– a lot. And I always assumed something was fishy about his passing but.."