The battle ended by nightfall.
Victory felt quiet.
In Kael's chambers, the world finally slowed. Armor discarded. Crowns forgotten.
"You could still leave," Kael said, standing close. "The curse is broken. You owe me nothing."
I reached for him.
"I didn't stay because of a curse," I said softly. "I stayed because of you."
His breath caught.
When he kissed me, it wasn't violent or desperate but reverent. As if I were something sacred.
The bond flared warm and bright, wrapping around us like a living thing.
That night, the world faded.
There was only heat, whispered vows, and the steady certainty that neither of us was alone anymore.
The flames outside the window burned low, gentle at last.
By morning, the Dragon King's curse was gone.
And so was my fear.