The training grounds buzzed with clashing swords, barked instructions, and the rhythmic thud of boots on packed earth. Ren, dressed in light armor and slick with sweat, parried a blow before sliding back and taking a breath. Though focused on training, a part of him longed for the warmth of Shinomi's arms, the teasing voice whispering nonsense in his ears. But there was a different kind of pride that filled him now—he was growing stronger, not just for himself but for them.
Just as he grabbed a water flask, a royal messenger galloped into the field. The soldiers paused their drills, watching as the rider dismounted swiftly and handed the fencing master a sealed scroll.
"Prince Ren," the master called out, brow raised in surprise. "This message is for you—from the palace."
Ren wiped his brow, approached, and took the scroll. The royal crest was unmistakable—his father's seal pressed into deep red wax. As he broke it and read, his eyes widened.
"By royal decree, His Majesty the King proclaims the engagement of Prince Shinomi of the Eastern Court and Prince Ren of Rael, as well as Crown Prince Cassian and Lady Shinomiya of the House of Garnet. A double union to unite both power and hearts. The state shall celebrate the joy of its beloved heirs with a grand wedding festival. Let all know: love shall no longer be hidden, nor censored—it is to be honored, in all its forms."
The message fell slightly in Ren's hands, his lips trembling into a stunned smile.
"W-We're… getting married?" he whispered.
The other soldiers erupted into cheers. One even shouted, "About time!" Ren flushed.
Meanwhile, across the kingdom, celebrations had already begun.
Bells rang from the palace towers. Doves were released into the sky. Royal banners, newly embroidered with symbols of unity and love, unfurled from every watchtower. The streets bustled with life—flower vendors tossed petals into the air, children ran with ribbons, and artists painted murals of the two couples across city walls. Everywhere, there was color, music, and the echo of something new and beautiful blossoming.
In the heart of the royal city, Shinomi and Cassian stood before the king in the great hall.
Cassian looked dashing yet nervous, a faint blush creeping up his ears. Shinomi, of course, grinned like a boy who had just won a kingdom—and in his mind, he had.
The King looked between the two with a calm, solemn smile. "I've watched you both fight for your own paths," he said. "It was not easy. But you endured, and more importantly, you never let hate rule your hearts."
Cassian bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I promise to protect and love her, always."
"And I'll annoy Ren till death and beyond," Shinomi said proudly.
The king narrowed his eyes, but a chuckle escaped him nonetheless. "You better not forget to treat him with dignity, too."
"Of course," Shinomi said, his grin softening. "He's my everything."
Word of the royal engagements spread swiftly. Nobles who once sneered at same-gender love now whispered praises in public. The youth of the kingdom, especially, were overjoyed. Couples—young men walking hand-in-hand, girls whispering sweet nothings to each other—began to stroll openly in gardens and through marketplaces, no longer hiding. It was as if the air itself was lighter.
Even Celestia, once bitter and wounded, stood at a balcony watching the preparations. Her long lavender hair swayed in the breeze as she saw the city glowing with love. And strangely… she smiled.
Seeing Shinomi hold Ren so dearly, and Cassian gaze at Shinomiya with soft reverence, something within her had begun to thaw. Perhaps, love wasn't meant to be owned or controlled. Perhaps it was meant to be set free—like the lanterns now rising above the city in honor of the weddings.
With that thought, she picked up a white rose and whispered softly, "I hope you're happy, Cassian."
And for the first time in a long time, she truly meant it.
The preparations continued. Garlands were strung from rooftops to palace gates. Musicians rehearsed nightly under starlight. Bakers crafted towering cakes with sugar roses and gold leaf. Seamstresses worked tirelessly on regal robes stitched with threads of starlight and honor.
And in the heart of it all, love pulsed through the city—unshakable, undeniable, and stronger than ever.
The wedding was coming.
And so was a new era.