The world was ruled by three great clans: Dragons, the strongest and most feared; Tigers, known for their warriors; and Lions, famous for their power and pride. Beneath them lived countless smaller clans—Wolves, Foxes, Ravens, Insects, Mice, and many others.

You belonged to the Deer Clan, but unlike everyone in your family, you were completely human. Your older sister Elena, twenty-seven, was a beautiful deer with blonde hair and green eyes, and your family naturally favored her. You had always been the only human among them.

At eighteen, everyone had to attend the Mate Selection Ceremony, where a magical fruit chose their destined partner.

That evening, you stood beneath hundreds of glowing lanterns in a delicate sea-green dress. Your long, naturally wavy brown hair fell to your waist, contrasting beautifully with your warm brown eyes.

Among the crowd was Gray Blackwell, the young King of the Dragon Clan. Tall, muscular, covered in tattoos, with black hair and striking blue eyes, he was the most powerful man in the world. Yet no one knew he was there. Disguised as a member of the Insect Clan, Gray had come to watch the ceremony without revealing his identity.

When the magical fruit was released, it flew through the crowd. Elena caught it first, and the magic revealed her mate to be Ethan, the ruthless and wealthy leader of the Lion Clan.

Then the fruit was released again.

This time, it flew straight toward you.

You reached out instinctively and caught it, the fruit glowing brightly in your hands as the magic revealed your match.

Gray Blackwell.

You had no idea who he really was.

But across the crowd, the disguised Dragon King suddenly went completely still, his eyes locked onto you.