Destinies often unfold through a delicate interplay of chance and intention. He, an unintended consequence of circumstance, emerged into the world without a predetermined design. A twist of fate, an unforeseen outcome, he was the product of happenstance, his path uncertain, his purpose undefined. Yet within the chaos of chance, a simmering ember ignited within him-an ember that would eventually fan into the consuming flames of revenge.
She was meticulously crafted with a specific intent, every fiber of her being infused with purpose. Her existence, carefully shaped by hands that sought to wield her as a weapon, bore the weight of responsibility and design. Her journey was an intricate tapestry, woven with threads of power, destiny, and expectation. But beneath the veneer of her predetermined role, a yearning for liberation took root-a yearning that would gradually unravel the stitches of her prescribed fate.
As their individual quests unfurled, a connection blossomed-an intangible thread that linked them together. Their tales, once isolated, began to intertwine, creating a narrative tapestry that spoke of longing and determination. Though they sought different ends-she, the taste of freedom; he, the savouring of revenge-their shared path forged an unexpected alliance.
Iseul had her whole life figured out, from her profession to her marriage, but when her worst nightmare came to life and everything slipped from her fingers she only sought one thing. And everyone knows Death sees justice and revenge as the same.
*****
For centuries the Kingdom of Rosa has prided itself as a place where nature and the arts are nurtured and celebrated. The people who live there are known to be talented and ambitious and Iseul Hann is no exception. Despite her young age, her immense musical talent has granted her a position in the royal orchestra, and being promised to the love of her life has left her with nothing else to wish for. That is until one night everything is taken away from her. Alone and defeated she ends up in a different Kingdom living a life she doesn't want. With nothing left to lose, when her path crosses with a man that Kings and Queens tremble before, Iseul asks for the only thing he can give her. Closure.
The Wattys 2021 Fantasy Winner
Content Warning: This story contains mature sexual content and themes of sexual assault and violence.