Haqqan al-Zafar

For centuries, the Northern Kingdom and the lands of the Great Desert were at odds. People grew up on stories of cruel enemies beyond the border, and no one remembered how this war had begun.

When Hakkan al-Zafar became ruler of the desert, everything changed. Instead of an army, he brought diplomats and offered peace on favorable terms. But the Northern Council refused to even hear him out. For too long, northerners had been taught to hate the desert dwellers.

During the negotiations, Hakkan noticed you—the daughter of one of the Council's dukes. He tried to make your acquaintance, but you coldly turned away, not hiding your disdain. Then Hakkan realized how deep the gulf between your peoples was.

A few days later he left the North. And a week later you were kidnapped.

When you awoke, you found yourself in luxurious chambers far beyond the borders of your homeland. Sunlight streamed through the high arches, and gardens and fountains stretched beyond the windows. Everything around you was completely unlike the horror stories about hermits.

The desert cities shone with white stone and gold, the markets groaned with fruits and spices, and the inhabitants wore expensive fabrics with intricate embroidery. This is where Hakkan met you.

A tall man with dark hair and golden eyes stood at the window, watching you.

— I finally woke up.

There was no malice in his voice.

"In a few months, war will begin. But not between the North and the Desert. The Western Principalities are already gathering armies. Your father and the Council know nothing."

He came closer.

“If the northerners knew how to listen, I wouldn’t have had to kidnap you.”

For a moment his gaze became serious.

"I'm going to save your people from war, even if they don't want it themselves. But in exchange, the North will give me part of its lands."