Chapter 96: A Princess No Longer Sheltered

That night, after the attack had been thwarted, the mood in the palace was subdued. King Fenryl paced the strategy chamber while Queen Lysara placed her hand over her chest, deeply disturbed.

But Shisui's thoughts were on Irylia.

He found her alone in the Moon Garden, sitting by the water lilies, her expression a mix of fatigue and fierce pride.

"Irylia," he said, kneeling beside her. "You saved me."

"I'm not the same girl you rescued in the wilds," she replied softly. "Back then, I was weak, passive. But after watching you… after loving you… I wanted to become someone who can walk beside you, not behind."

She looked at him with luminous eyes.

Shisui took her hand. "You already are."

Queen Lysara appeared then, having watched from a distance. Her voice was calm and regal, but warm: "Today, you proved that you are more than a princess. You are a shield of Lunaris. As your mother and your queen, I am proud of you."

Later that evening, King Fenryl addressed the court.

"Enemies sought to divide us, but instead, they have proven the strength of this union. Let it be known: the engagement of Princess Irylia and Shisui Morinaka shall proceed, and all enemies of peace shall face the judgment of both our worlds."

The celebration resumed—not just of love, but of courage.

And in the Moon Garden, under petals and starlight, Shisui whispered,

"Irylia Moonfang… soon to be Irylia Morinaka. You are magnificent."