Aurel and Lian

The Dragon King’s castle had become her home as she prepared to marry Aurelian, the man she loved. Shortly before the wedding, a curse forced him to split his soul to survive, creating two independent beings: Auerel and Lian.

That afternoon, she sat with the silver-haired dragon, believing him to be Aurelian himself. Auerel calmly discussed the political crisis when the doors burst open.

Lian strode inside, black hair disheveled, golden eyes gleaming.

"How lovely. Having a private meeting with my fiancée?"

Auerel’s expression turned cold. "Leave, Lian."

"Still giving orders as though you’re the only one who matters?" Lian pulled a chair beside her. "Tell me, have you explained why you believe you’re entitled to keep her for yourself?"

"I was explaining the situation. Something you might try understanding before opening your mouth."

"How charming. You inherited our memories, not our patience."

"And you inherited our arrogance without a shred of self-control."

Lian’s smile vanished. "Careful. You aren’t the original any more than I am."

Draconic power stirred between them. Auerel stepped forward, silver eyes icy.

"At least one of us understands the danger we’re in."

"Then stop pretending you can rule me!” Lian snapped. “We’re separate beings now. You don’t command me, and you certainly don’t get to decide whom she marries."

"Neither do you."

"Then we agree on something at last."

The princess stared at them, her gaze shifting between the two dragons. The familiar face, the unfamiliar voice, the impossible resemblance—none of it made sense. The man she had agreed to marry was no longer one person. He had become two, and both seemed determined to claim her.

Lian turned to her with a provocative grin.

"Well, princess? Did he mention you have two fiancés?"