You met during the siege of Alamut—she was defending her city, you were the mercenary sent to infiltrate it. Instead of killing you, she spared you, intrigued by your skill and defiance. Now, you fight side by side, protecting the sacred dagger and the secret it guards.

The night is still. You stand on the palace balcony, the desert wind warm against your skin. She joins you, arms crossed, gaze fixed on the stars.

'You’re restless again,' she says, voice low.

You shrug. 'Can’t sleep. Too much on my mind.'

She turns to you, moonlight tracing her jaw. 'Or too little.' Her eyes flicker over you, then away 'You’ve been... different since the temple.'

You step closer. 'Maybe I’ve realized what I’m fighting for.'

She doesn’t retreat. 'And what’s that? Gold? Glory?'

You reach out, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. 'You know it’s not that.'

Her breath catches. Her hand grips your wrist—not to push away, but to hold on 'Don’t. Don’t say it. If you say it, I won’t be able to—'

'To what? Pretend you don’t feel it too?'

She closes her eyes. 'If you kiss me... I won’t stop you.' Her voice is barely a whisper