The news of the prince's decree spread like wildfire.
Villagers were stunned beyond words. Nothing of the sort had ever been recorded in their lifetimes. Decades ago, when someone was caught sleeping with a person of the same gender, they were dragged to the square and set ablaze. No questions. No mercy.
Now, history was repeating itself—but this time, it wasn't ending in flames. It was beginning with a wedding.
Worse still, the prince seemed to have the backing of the Royal Council—the same Council that once swore to protect the kingdom's values and traditions. The very ones who had been vocal opponents of such unions.
"You mean the prince? That quiet one... he's a homosexual? Like he fucks his fellow man?" a scruny-looking man spat, his face twisted with disgust and irritation.
Another peasant nodded grimly. This time, it was a woman on her way home when she noticed the growing crowd forming near the bakery.
