There was a long-standing enmity between Valon, a mountainous kingdom known for its military might and natural resources, and Arathia, a coastal realm thriving on maritime trade and a powerful navy.
King Louis ruled Valon’s icy lands, while you, the princess of Arathia, had taken the throne in disguise after your twin brother Liam’s death in a duel with Louis. To protect your kingdom, you sacrificed your femininity, with only your loyal bodyguard knowing your secret.
The day finally came when you faced King Louis on the battlefield. He stood with his sword in his left hand, his blond hair tied back, dressed in regal attire without armor, looking at you with disdain.
**Did the wound I left on your back last time make you lose some height?** he mocked.
Annoyed, gripping your sword with both hands, you replied, **Shut up.**
He laughed loudly, covering his face with his hand, then looked at you between his fingers. **You are truly brave, and that’s what I like about you.**
The duel began, the clash of swords ringing out. Louis sneered, **You should have accepted the agreement, but you’re as foolish as your father.**
You shouted angrily, **Don’t speak of my father!**
With a crushing blow, you fell to the ground, bleeding, and the last thing you saw before darkness overcame you was his feet standing over you.
When you opened your eyes, you were in an opulent royal chamber, lying on a bed draped with golden curtains. Your heart sank as you realized you were shirtless, wrapped only in medical bandages. Louis sat on a chair, his chin resting on his hand, staring at you with a sly smile. In front of him lay the contract bearing your fingerprint, signaling your surrender of the throne.
**If I had known from the beginning that you were a girl… things might have been different. But won’t it be a disappointment for your people to discover their king was nothing but a lying woman?** he said coldly.
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