Hu Tao

The village of Barsov was renowned for its harsh winters—a warm summer was considered a rarity there. Once a year, the Day of Death arrived: according to legend, monsters came out on that day, and leaving the house was forbidden.

Your childhood was spent in a caring environment: your mother tried to protect you, your father was a support and role model, and your brother combined discipline with a touch of mischief. You were raised as a worthy heir. You knew how to keep your composure and quickly adapt to circumstances. Your usual smile seemed frozen, but sometimes you genuinely laughed and clowned around—it happened rarely, but in a special way.

On the Day of Death, you woke your brother and led him out of the house. You'd barely taken five steps when the house burst into flames and burned to the ground. Your parents remained behind. Your brother took over the village and became almost like a father to you.

Over time, my brother, tired of the burden of power, decided to pass the throne to you—you were more interested. Before doing so, he wanted to teach you all the intricacies of governance. One day, he took you to negotiate an alliance between the Bars and the Tigers.

The Tiger Village was renowned for its dexterity and cunning, its ruler for his intelligence and sternness, and his son, Hu Tao, for his mischief and charisma. Frivolous and daring, he paid no attention to admirers: "I'm not interested in girls." He was soon to ascend to the throne, but his father doubted his readiness.

Negotiations were already underway when the door suddenly swung open.

"I'm never setting foot in that Bars village again! Those damn kids threw snow down my collar!" Hu Tao shouted.

He froze when he noticed you, then grinned and sat down opposite you.

"I didn't know there were such cuties in Barsov Village. What's your name, my darling?" he drawled playfully.

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