Chapter 6: The Key to Power
The morning sun filtered through the windows of the training quarters, casting a warm glow on the wooden floors. Kaito sat cross-legged across from Miya, a sense of calm washing over him as they prepared for another lesson. Over the past few days, he had grown more comfortable with her presence, though there were still moments where the weight of their bond left him feeling unsure.
Miya, ever perceptive, could see the flicker of hesitation in his eyes. She decided it was time to address one of the most important aspects of the relationship between a king and his queens.
"Kaito," Miya began, her tone steady but gentle, "there's something I need to explain to you about the bond between a king and his queens. It's a power that is as ancient as it is vital."
Kaito tilted his head, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean?"
Miya smiled softly, her silver hair shimmering in the morning light. "You've already felt the energy that flows between us, the bond that connects us as queen and king. But there is more to it. A king and his queens share their power through a process—an exchange that strengthens the connection and enhances their abilities."
Kaito's brow furrowed. "An exchange? How does that work?"
Miya hesitated for a moment, as if choosing her words carefully. "The exchange happens through a kiss on the lips," she said, her crimson eyes meeting his. "It's not just symbolic; it's a physical and magical connection. When a queen kisses her king, she shares a portion of her power with him. In return, the king gains strength, though he will always remain weaker than his queens. This bond is what allows us to fight together, stronger as a pair than we could ever be alone."
Kaito's cheeks turned a deep shade of red. "A... a kiss?" he stammered, his voice cracking slightly.
Miya chuckled, amused by his reaction. "Yes, a kiss. But there's more. Each queen possesses a unique ability—an ultimate move, if you will. These abilities are incredibly powerful, capable of turning the tide of any battle. However, they are locked, unable to be used freely."
Kaito's curiosity outweighed his embarrassment. "Locked? How do they unlock them?"
Miya's gaze softened as she continued. "The key to unlocking a queen's ultimate move is her king. The process is similar to the sharing of power. When the time comes, and the queen needs to unlock her ability, she must receive a kiss from her king. This act activates the bond and releases the power, allowing her to use her ultimate move."
Kaito blinked, trying to absorb everything she was saying. "So, you're saying that every time you or another queen needs to use this... ultimate move, I have to..."
Miya nodded. "Yes. It's a sacred connection, one that requires trust and understanding. This is why the relationship between a king and his queens is so important. It's not just about fighting together; it's about supporting each other, growing together, and building a bond that transcends mere companionship."
Kaito looked down, his mind racing. "It feels... overwhelming," he admitted. "I'm still trying to understand all of this, and now you're telling me that I'm a key to unlocking this incredible power? What if I mess it up? What if I'm not ready?"
Miya reached out, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Kaito, you don't have to have all the answers right now. No one is expecting you to be perfect. This bond isn't something you need to force or rush. It will grow naturally, just as we grow together. And when the time comes, you'll be ready."
Her words were calming, though Kaito couldn't shake the nervousness that lingered. "What's your ultimate move?" he asked, trying to shift the focus away from his doubts.
Miya's expression grew serious. "My ultimate move is called Eternal Radiance. It's a devastating beam of energy capable of obliterating anything in its path. But it's a move of last resort, one I can only use when there's no other option. Once activated, it requires a significant amount of energy, and without the bond between us, it would remain inaccessible."
Kaito swallowed hard, the weight of her words settling over him. "Have you ever had to use it before?"
Miya shook her head. "No. And I hope I never will. But knowing that I have you as my king gives me confidence. Together, we can face whatever challenges come our way."
Her confidence was infectious, and Kaito found himself nodding, despite the lingering doubt in his heart. "I'll do my best," he said quietly. "I don't want to let you down."
Miya smiled, leaning forward to place a gentle kiss on his cheek. "You won't, Kaito. I believe in you."
As the day went on, they returned to their training, the lessons now imbued with a deeper understanding of their connection. Kaito still felt a sense of uncertainty, but with Miya's guidance, he began to see that their bond was not just a burden but a source of strength—a partnership that would carry them through the trials ahead.
And though the road ahead was long, Kaito knew that with Miya by his side, he would find the courage to embrace his role, not just as a king, but as someone she could rely on. Together, they were stronger. Together, they would face whatever destiny had in store.