---
The royal court buzzed like a disturbed beehive. Invitations, letters, petitions—even threats—poured into the palace. Some nobles denounced Shinomi as a disgrace. Others praised him as a hero of the new age.
But deep within one of the palace guest wings, away from the growing noise of a divided kingdom, Shinomi stood by a window, arms crossed, expression unreadable.
Ren sat at the edge of the bed, folding and refolding a silken handkerchief. "They're talking about us," he whispered.
"I know," Shinomi said, not turning around. His voice was calm, but his shoulders were stiff.
Ren looked up, watching him. "Are you… afraid?"
Shinomi didn't answer immediately. Then, slowly, he turned to face Ren. "I'm not afraid of them," he said, stepping forward. "I'm afraid they'll try to take you from me again."
Ren's throat tightened. "They already tried."
Shinomi sat beside him, fingers brushing his. "I won't let them succeed this time."
Ren looked down at their intertwined fingers. "They're saying we should marry."
Shinomi raised an eyebrow. "Do you want that?"
Ren flushed. "It's not about what I want. It's about what's safest for you. For me. For the people who believe in us now."
There was a knock at the door.
A guard entered, bowing low. "The King requests both your presence. Immediately."
---
Inside the throne hall, the King sat rigid on his elevated seat, robes heavy with judgment.
Cassian stood at his side, his expression tight with concern.
The King didn't speak at first. His eyes were locked on Shinomi. "You've thrown this kingdom into unrest," he finally said.
"Or opened its eyes," Shinomi replied coolly.
The King leaned forward, fingers tapping on his gold-trimmed armrest. "You forget your position. You're a general, not a prophet."
"I'm also a man in love," Shinomi replied.
Ren flushed, looking down.
Cassian cleared his throat. "Father… the people are watching. Any rash punishment might only worsen their belief that we're intolerant."
The King glared at his son. "You support them now?"
Cassian hesitated. "I support peace. And I know Shinomi. He wouldn't lead this kingdom into chaos without purpose."
The King's eyes flicked to Ren. "And you, boy. Do you understand what you're doing? That kiss… it has consequences."
Ren looked up. For once, his voice didn't tremble. "So does silence, Your Majesty."
The King sat back. His anger simmered, but even he could sense the winds shifting.
He waved a hand. "You are not to speak publicly. I will not allow this scandal to grow further. No wedding. No statement. Not until I decide."
"But—" Ren started.
"That's final."
---
Outside the throne room, Ren and Shinomi walked in silence until they reached the garden.
Ren leaned on the stone railing, frustration bubbling behind his soft eyes. "I hate this… like we're a disease they're trying to cover."
Shinomi stepped beside him. "We don't need their permission to love."
"But we need their permission to live without hiding."
Shinomi didn't answer. Instead, he stepped behind Ren, wrapping his arms around him.
"We wait," he said. "But we don't stop. We'll win this. Not with rage, not with war… but by holding on."
Ren rested his head back against his shoulder. "I can wait. For as long as you'll stay."
Shinomi kissed his temple.
"Forever."
---