Dragon & Dreamer | ONC 2023 honourable mention

Liha wants to avenge his family. If he has to become one of the king's men to do this, he will. But in the capital Penira, the golden city, he learns fast a man has to prove his worth. Sword in hand, if needs be.
Dánirah hates the city, and people of her tribe are not welcome there. But she must deliver a message to one of her mother's contacts. When she is attacked, a young stranger tries to help her. They both end up wounded and in the care of a harlot.

Months later, they meet again on the battlefield. Dánirah has the information to turn the tide of war. But can Liha convince the future king to trust the young tribal woman he hardly knows himself?