Call Out My Name

When Times Were Rough

-ˋˏ ༻❁༺ ˎˊ-

  Uzui sits in a meeting of higher-ups, a cold scowl engraved on his face. Nine people seated themselves around the table.

  Shinobu Kocho of the Rhopalocera Region. Giyuu Tomioka of the Aqua region. Kyojurou Rengoku of the Ignis region. Gyomei Himejima from the Saxum region. Sanemi Shinazugawa from the Aeris region. Mitsuri Kanroji and Obanai Iguro from the Serpentis region. Muichiro Tokito from the Caligo region. And last, Uzui Tengen from the Tonitruum region.

  The nine highest-ranking knights from across the country. They all only meet together under frantic circumstances. Throughout Uzui's whole life as a knight, they've never had a meeting once.

    "Uzui-san," Shinobu starts, a smile plastered on her face. "We're all here today to discuss what happened a few days ago." Her smile fades as she turns her head to face him. "Obviously, we've heard the King has died. A tragedy. But we don't have time to discuss that. The Prince, Agatsuma Zenitsu, is the heir to the throne correct?"

    "Yes," he says, crossing his arms.

    "It's in our best interest to have his coronation, and soon. Without order, we know your kingdom will fall." That's the undeniable truth. But is Zenitsu really ready for that? He can hardly take care of himself right now. Let alone an entire kingdom. 

    "I must agree!" Rengoku shouts. "He may only be sixteen, he is the heir, and I heard common folk adore him."

    "Are you sure he's ready for that?" Muichiro asks, picking at the skin on his fingers.

  Mitsuri perks up. "I've heard of princes being crowned at a younger age than him! I think he should be fine. After all, you are about his age, no?" Muichiro scowls and looks away.

    "I'm sure his highness isn't in the best state right now, his Ojii-san being killed, and all," Shinobu adds. "But, Uzui-san, I know you are close with him. Also, I heard the king said something to you. What was it? Was it important?" Uzui thinks back. It was an odd thing for him to say.

    "Well, it wasn't important, but he said that I have his blessing." Silence fills the room.

    "As in..."

    "Marriage," he sighs. Mitsuri gasps, a blush covering her face.

    "I've never heard of two men getting married and ruling together. Most of the time, it's a king and queen." She cocks her head, looking up in thought. "I do admit it's not that important, but maybe it is for Zenitsu-kun!" Shinobu scowls at her.

    "Don't refer to the prince so casually, Mitsuri-chan." She covers her mouth, apologizing behind her hand. "But maybe she's right. But will his highness be willing to do that?" Uzui furrows his brow.

    "I'm not sure," he comments. "He's stubborn and childish. I think he might throw a fit at the sound of marrying me."

    "You never really know unless we try. Is the prince here now? He was accompanying you," she mentions, a scary glint in her eye.

    "Yes, he accompanied me. Should I bring him in?" His gaze circles the room, seeing everyone nod their heads.

  He stands and opens the door leading out into the hallway. He finds the knights who were guarding Zenitsu for the time being.

    "Zenitsu," he crouches down. "The nine of us need to talk to you." He offers him a hand. Zenitsu faces him. He's an absolute mess. His eyes are bloodshot, his skin is pale. The bags and dark circles under their eyes make him look like he's been up for days. In reality, all he's done for the past few days is sleep and cry. Zenitsu grabs his hand, not saying a word of protest or question.