Chapter 89: The Moonfangs’ Decision

Queen Lysara looked up as Irylia entered, followed by King Fenryl who stood by the crystal fireplace with a goblet in hand. They had been discussing council matters, but stopped when they saw the seriousness in their daughter's eyes.

"Mother. Father," Irylia said softly, standing tall but visibly nervous. "I need to speak with you… about something important."

Fenryl gave her a curious glance. "Is this about the traitor remnants?"

She shook her head. "No. This is… personal."

She took a deep breath and said it. "I love Shisui. And I want to marry him."

A beat of stunned silence filled the room.

Queen Lysara's expression shifted first—surprised, then thoughtful. King Fenryl's brows furrowed.

"Irylia," Fenryl said, setting his goblet down. "Do you understand what you're asking? Shisui is a warrior with no lineage. No noble house. No bloodline rights to our throne."

"I understand," she replied firmly. "But none of that matters to me. He's proven his heart, not just his strength. He risked everything to protect me, even when he had nothing to gain."

Lysara's voice was gentle. "Are you certain this isn't just gratitude or admiration?"

"No," Irylia said, stepping closer. "I've known admiration. I've felt gratitude. This is love. I've seen the man beneath the ice, and I want to stand beside him—not as a princess, but as a woman."

King Fenryl sighed and sat down slowly. His eyes met his daughter's, searching her soul.

"Then tell me this, Irylia—do you believe Shisui would protect this kingdom with the same devotion he's shown to you?"

She didn't hesitate. "Yes. He already has."

A long silence passed before Lysara smiled softly. "She's her mother's daughter," she murmured.

King Fenryl stood. "Very well. We will summon Shisui tomorrow… and speak to him of this proposal ourselves."

Irylia blinked, hope sparking in her chest. "You mean—?"

"If his heart mirrors yours," Fenryl said, "then the Moonfang family will welcome him not just as a hero, but as our son."

Tears welled in her eyes, but she smiled through them. "Thank you."

That night, beneath the twin moons, Princess Irylia looked toward the horizon—toward Shisui—her heart calm, determined, and filled with a quiet joy.

The frost-born sentinel had not just saved her life.

He had claimed her heart.