Rin stood before a tall, gilded mirror, adjusting the collar of his ceremonial robe with precise movements. The silver and midnight-blue fabric shimmered faintly under the morning light, the design both elegant and intimidating—fit for the Second Imperial Prince of the Hoshimi Empire.
Behind him stood his mother, Hoshimi Nao, the Azure Empress, watching quietly with her arms crossed and a rare, fond smile on her lips.
She waited as Rin fastened the insignia of his imperial rank over his chest.
"…Still surreal," Nao murmured.
"Hm?" Rin raised an eyebrow.
"Just thinking. A few years ago, you were pretending to be some quiet apprentice in the White Flower Palace, and now you're the centerpiece of a political celebration." She smiled gently. "Time is cruel, isn't it?"
Rin gave a dry chuckle. "Tell me about it."
Nao stepped forward, smoothing out the edge of his robe with motherly care. "You'll be greeting nobles and military families today. Try not to scowl too much. Smile a little—it keeps the vultures guessing."
"I'll do my best," Rin muttered, adjusting his gloves.
"You're lucky you're just doing the greetings. Kazuo has the worst job—mingling with every influential figure in the Empire and acting like he's the proud fiancé of four powerhouses." Nao gave a knowing smirk. "Poor thing."
"He deserves it," Rin replied without missing a beat.
That made Nao laugh softly.
"Still…" She narrowed her eyes at her son, folding her arms again. "Be careful not to seduce more women, Rin."
Rin froze mid-adjustment.
"You're an unmarried prince, after all," she continued casually. "Even if there are rumors about your affection for Saintess Elaine, she's still just a rumor. And you, my dear son, are far too… eligible."
Rin let out an exaggerated sigh. "I know, Mom. No need to remind me. I'm painfully aware I'm… apparently a perfect catch."
Nao gave him a thumbs up with a dazzling smile. "If you must seduce someone, just make sure they're good women. Honestly, the bar's pretty high now. Those four consorts of yours? Strong, loyal, protective… deadly if provoked. I'm impressed."
"Moooooom," Rin groaned, dragging a hand over his face. "Please don't say things like that before a national event. I don't want to walk into the ballroom blushing like a fool."
Nao chuckled, stepping back with pride gleaming in her eyes. "You'll be fine. You always are."
And with that, she turned and left, her long sleeves trailing behind her like waves of starlight, leaving Rin alone with the mirror once more.
He stared at his reflection for a moment longer… then smiled faintly.
"…Yeah. Let's get through today."
The Year-End Celebration of the Hoshimi Empire was nothing short of extravagant. The Grand Imperial Hall had been transformed into a shimmering sea of color and elegance, with silken banners of red, gold, and blue hanging from the high ceilings. Ornate chandeliers bathed the guests in warm light, reflecting off gilded armor and polished shoes. Nobles from every corner of the Empire arrived in lavish attire, their presence creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures and lineages. Courtiers and generals mingled, their voices blending with the soft music played by the royal ensemble. Servants moved like shadows, offering wine and delicacies as the grandeur of the Empire was displayed in full force.
The scent of fresh flowers, incense, and roasted delicacies filled the air as honored guests laughed and conversed, exchanging formal greetings and subtle jabs beneath thin veils of etiquette. Amidst the crowd, Rin stood at a distance, observing the festivities alongside his two sisters, Izumi and Aya. Though their posture remained perfect and expressions serene, a closer glance revealed the fatigue in their eyes. Rin didn't comment—he knew all too well the cost of putting on a flawless face in front of society. From where they stood, they could see Kazuo with the four consorts, gracefully fielding conversations and maintaining appearances with poise. Rin exhaled slowly. "They're doing fine," he murmured.
"So were you," Izumi replied, lifting a small cup of tea to her lips. "Despite being swarmed by noble girls trying to grab a piece of the legendary Second Prince."
Rin groaned. "Don't remind me. One even asked if I was interested in founding a new house with her. I told her I wasn't looking to raise chaos in the Empire."
Aya chuckled. "At least none of them were as bold as the ones who approached us. Some noble heirs tried to court us directly. Can you believe that? I had to politely mention that such things would need the approval of the Four Empresses and our dear father."
"Bet that shut them down quick," Rin grinned.
"It did," they said in unison.
Just as the conversation lulled, the hall dimmed slightly and a formal announcement rang out, marking the start of the main event—the performances. A hush fell over the nobles as dancers in resplendent outfits took the stage, weaving magic and grace into every movement. Skilled instrumentalists and illusionists followed, earning applause and praise from even the most reserved guests. The ambiance turned dreamlike, and for a moment, even the pressure of status seemed to melt into the beauty of the night.
Rin slipped away quietly during the third performance, stepping out onto the balcony for a moment of solitude. The winter air was crisp, the quietness outside a sharp contrast to the vibrant energy within. He leaned slightly on the stone railing, looking up at the stars that peeked through the clouds.
He wasn't alone for long.
Footsteps approached, and a familiar voice broke the silence.
"…It's a beautiful night, isn't it?"
Rin turned slightly. Standing beside him was Shinegori Arata, Grand Prime Minister of the Empire—and Akane's father. His sharp eyes were as calculating as ever, yet tonight they held a peculiar softness.
"Mind if I join you, Your Highness?" Arata asked, voice low and casual, though Rin could already feel the weight behind his presence.
"…Go ahead," Rin replied. "I doubt you came here just for the view."
Arata smiled thinly. "You're as sharp as ever."
Shinegori Arata stepped beside Rin, his posture as calm and composed as ever, but there was a familiar glint of amusement in his sharp eyes.
"You've grown up, Your Highness. The last time I saw you, you were preparing to leave the Imperial Palace. You gave me quite the headache arranging a flawless new identity."
Rin let out a soft chuckle. "You were quite helpful in that regard, Prime Minister."
"Please, just call me Minister Arata. It's much easier that way, Your Highness."
Rin sighed, hands behind his back. "Alright. Need something from this lowly Second Prince?"
"Not at all." Arata clasped his hands. "I simply wanted to know what you think about my daughter, Akane."
"Akane, huh?" Rin tilted his head slightly, watching the festivities from the balcony. "Well, she did help me create quite a few escape routes back when I was dodging three persistent consorts as Shimuzu Rin. Resourceful. Manipulative. Sharp."
Arata smirked faintly. "So you have a good opinion of her. That's a relief. She's now tied to you, after all—it wouldn't do for her future husband to think ill of her."
"You don't need to worry about Akane. Among all the consorts, she's the one I trust most when it comes to navigating the treacherous waters of court politics. She sees through things I don't."
"Hmph," Arata nodded. "She grew up well then. She always thought herself the black sheep of the Shinegori line. But truthfully, she was one of the brightest. Being born into the main family means learning to be cunning… selfish, even. Especially when her future role is to succeed the White Empress in administrative duties."
Rin's eyes drifted downward to where Akane was effortlessly handling a conversation between three nobles. "She's doing very well. Mother Asami actually praises her attitude when it comes to planning things in secret."
A rare, proud smile touched Arata's lips. "She's softened lately, though. I suspect you're to blame for that. All she talks about in her letters is you."
"…Is that so?" Rin blinked, genuinely caught off guard.
"She even asks me for advice—on how to get closer to the Second Imperial Prince." Arata gave a small laugh. "You remind me of myself when I was young, back when I used to drink with Emperor Masaki as a fellow schemer, not yet a Minister."
Rin glanced at him and smiled quietly. "You're very loyal, Minister Arata. Thank you… for helping the Hoshimi Empire thrive."
"It is merely my duty."
The two men stood in mutual silence for a while, the cold breeze brushing through their robes. Then, Arata's voice grew more serious.
"Your Highness… I'm sure you remember well—about the matter concerning the Black Princess Consort, Urakawa Miharu."
"The plan to reinstate the Urakawa family?" Rin asked, his voice calm.
"Yes. The truth of their innocence has been buried for too long. I'll have Akane assist in that matter—perhaps it'll be a good chance for her to bond with Miharu."
Rin placed a hand on his cheek. "Akane already knows. She's agreed to help. But… the opposition will come, especially from some in your clan."
"I'll take care of that," Arata said firmly. "Just guide the two consorts when the time comes."
Rin nodded slowly. "I will."
With that, Minister Arata gave a respectful bow, his expression satisfied. "Then I'll take my leave, Your Highness."
He turned and walked away, his steps fading into the distance, leaving Rin alone once again on the balcony—quiet, thoughtful, and watching the stars as the celebration continued behind him.
Rin was once again left to his own thoughts, the cool evening breeze brushing against his face. He glanced toward the hall, considering whether to return inside—only to pause as someone stepped into view.
It was Suzuki—the Azure Princess Consort.
The moment her eyes met his, her posture straightened ever so slightly. A spark of happiness flickered in her expression, but she immediately composed herself, covering her mouth with her long, flowing sleeve in a formal gesture. Though engaged in secret, she knew better than to act too familiar in public.
Quietly, she walked to Rin's side—keeping just enough distance to avoid drawing suspicion. Her presence, as always, was gentle yet unmistakable. They stood there for a moment, side by side, watching the vibrant celebration unfold below the balcony.
The golden lights from lanterns danced across the garden, illuminating the nobles enjoying music, wine, and performances. But Suzuki's eyes didn't stay on the scenery for long. She glanced subtly around, then, after ensuring no one was paying attention, raised her hand with a soft glow of mana. A delicate silence barrier shimmered into place around them, muffling the world.
With that small privacy spell in place, she lowered her sleeves, her expression softening.
Rin turned toward her, noticing the barrier and smiling faintly. "What is it, Suzuki?"
The usually reserved girl gave a small nod, her voice finally free from the restraints of nobility. "Just wanted to talk…" she said softly. "Even if only for a little."
"I'm surprised..." Rin said with a half-smile, glancing at her from the corner of his eye. "You'd usually throw yourself at the chance to be alone with me."
Suzuki immediately pouted, her cheeks puffing slightly in protest. "That's because it's your fault for being too charming," she muttered, crossing her arms under her sleeves in mock frustration.
Rin sighed, though there was a warmth behind it. "You really are obsessed with me, aren't you?"
Suzuki turned her head toward him, her expression softening as her voice lowered. "Who wouldn't fall in love with you…? Back when I was suffering from Constitution Overload, everyone avoided me. I was dangerous. Anyone who came close lost their mind to the illusion magic leaking from me." She looked down at her hands. "I… I wanted to die. But then you came."
Rin's gaze turned serious. "I was just doing my job as Shimizu Rin. The Azure Dragon Palace requested help, and I answered the call. That's all."
"You say that," Suzuki whispered, "but you were the only one who held my hand. The only one who fed me, who cleaned my room when the servants couldn't bear the pressure of my magic. You stayed by my side… You talked to me, even when I was a monster to everyone else." She turned to look at him directly. "How could I not fall in love with you?"
Rin closed his eyes for a moment, another sigh escaping. He had tried to stay professional, tried to be a mere helper, but perhaps—no, clearly—he'd touched her heart more deeply than he intended.
"Still," Suzuki added with a faint, teasing smile, brushing a strand of her long hair behind her ear, "you were too charming for your own good, Rin."
Suzuki let out a wistful breath, her eyes soft with longing. "I just wish... it was only me who fell for you, Rin. If only I had been the only one who saw the real you. Maybe then, it wouldn't hurt so much to share."
She smiled sadly, then looked out at the festivities below. "I envy my counterpart from The Imperial Courtship… the Azure Empress Suzuki in that timeline. She fell for Shimuzu Rin too—but she was the only one tied to him. Her love was never divided. But that world… it fell to corruption."
Rin tilted his head slightly. "So this is about her… the other Azure Empress Suzuki, huh?"
"Yes," she replied. "She was someone I could've become. Her Rin died, and I understand now… why she fell. Why she became corrupted. Losing him meant losing everything."
Rin's tone lowered, calm yet grave. "That future didn't come to pass… not yet, at least. But we now know something—or someone—is resetting the cycles. The world was ending. That's the best clue we've got… a sign to prepare."
He looked at her meaningfully. "And maybe… maybe the reason things are different this time is because I have you four with me now."
Suzuki's eyes shimmered faintly under the moonlight. "...Rin. If I become like her—corrupted—what will you do?"
"You won't," Rin answered firmly. "You're not her. You're my Suzuki. I'll never let you—or anyone I care about—fall to that fate. I'd rather die than watch that happen again."
Suzuki turned to him, her lips trembling just slightly. "Still not 'love,' huh?"
"What?"
"You said you 'care'... I was hoping for 'love.' Just once."
Rin sighed, gently. "...Suzuki."
"I know." She looked down, hiding a tiny frown. "But can't I wish for it? Just once, for my love to bloom… even if it's just me, waiting?"
"You can wish for it," Rin said quietly. "But wishes are just that—wishful. I can't lie to you, not when you're this honest."
"Muuuu… I really love you, Rin. Just fall for me already. I'll take care of you every second of your life, you know."
A faint smile curved Rin's lips. "...Your feelings will reach me. One day. I'm just not ready to love back. Not yet."
Suzuki sighed, mirroring his gaze back to the view from the balcony. The silence stretched, comfortable in its honesty.
After a pause, Rin casually added, "Still... my sister-in-law is very beautiful."
Suzuki blinked, heat blooming across her cheeks. "...Thank you," she muttered, trying to hide her smile.
"You're very good at compliments like this, you know," she added softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
Rin didn't answer—just smiled, eyes quietly tracing the lights of the celebration below.
"I'll return to Kazuo's side for now... I only slipped away to take a breather after all," Suzuki said softly, raising her sleeve to cover her mouth once more—hiding the wide, happy smile that bloomed there. The low light veiled the deep blush painting her cheeks, but Rin could tell. He always could.
Rin smiled at her, a little teasing in his voice. "It would be great if you fell for him instead."
Suzuki shook her head almost immediately. "No way... I've already set my heart on you. Unless a miracle happens, I won't fall for anyone but you."
Rin sighed, though there was a faint smile on his lips. "...Worth a try."
With a soft step, Suzuki turned and walked back toward the celebration hall. As she did, the silence barrier around them gently dissolved, releasing the quiet back into the distant hum of music and laughter.
Rin stood there a moment longer, gazing up at the night sky. The stars blinked above, calm and unchanging, a contrast to the swirling tide of emotions and politics he was navigating below.
Behind him, the celebration was still going strong—nobles mingling, performances dazzling, voices lifted in joy and pride for the empire's future.
Rin gave it one last glance before turning away from the balcony. His footsteps echoed softly as he returned to the inner hall.
Back to his duties.