After their confrontation, Cassian and Shinomi didn't speak for two days.
But Cassian, ever the strategist, returned to the garden on the third morning—this time not to argue, but to propose something bold.
"We both care about him," Cassian began calmly.
Shinomi sat beneath the cherry blossom tree, eyes closed. "And your point?"
"Let's test him," Cassian said. "Let him decide where his heart leans."
Shinomi cracked open one eye, skeptical. "You want to gamble his affection like a game?"
Cassian raised a hand. "Not a real gamble. A skit. A controlled scenario. We test how he reacts—but we don't push it far enough to hurt him."
Shinomi didn't respond right away.
Cassian continued, "We both agreed he's not just some servant anymore. So if we're both drawn to him, let's stop dancing around it."
Shinomi finally opened both eyes. "What do you propose?"
"A play," Cassian said. "We act like we're both pulling away from him. Cold. Distant. Indifferent. We'll watch who he seeks comfort from, who he misses, who he defends."
Shinomi studied Cassian's face.
He didn't trust him entirely. But the logic was solid. And maybe, just maybe, Ren's reaction would give him the answer he refused to admit he needed.
"…Fine," Shinomi agreed. "But if he starts looking confused or hurt, we end it."
Cassian nodded. "Agreed."
The plan was set. Beginning tomorrow, both of them would slowly distance themselves. Their "roles" would begin to shift.
For now, Aiden would know only silence.
---
Elsewhere in the palace, Aiden was in the sunroom polishing a collection of ceremonial swords when Celestia entered.
"Oh! Your Highness—" he quickly stood.
Celestia smiled warmly. "Don't be so tense, Ren. I came here on purpose."
He blinked. "You… did?"
She nodded, walking closer, her golden hair shining in the afternoon light. "It's been some time since we talked properly. You've grown quite… radiant lately."
Aiden flushed faintly. "I just changed how I dress a little."
"And it suits you," she said softly. "Your eyes… they used to hide behind lowered lashes. Now they shine." Her hand reached up and brushed a lock of hair from his face.
He stepped back politely. "Thank you… Your Highness."
She laughed. "You still call me that? How formal."
"I-It's just out of habit," he said nervously.
She smiled, but something in her expression seemed less gentle now. "You've become quite close with Shinomi. And now with Prince Cassian too."
"I-I don't mean to—"
"I'm not upset," she interrupted, voice smooth. "But I do wonder what it is you're seeking, Ren. Affection? Power? Or perhaps… love?"
Aiden's heart pounded. "I just want to serve… as best as I can."
Celestia studied him for a moment longer before stepping back with a smile. "Then serve wisely. The closer you get to kings, the more dangerous the throne becomes."
---
That night, Aiden laid awake in bed, fidgeting with his blanket.
Shinomi hadn't spoken to him since the morning.
Cassian hadn't sent his usual note.
Even Celestia's visit left him more confused than flattered.
He turned toward the window, staring into the moonlight.
What was happening?
And why did it feel like something was shifting underneath him—something he couldn't name yet?
---