ZENJIN

Zenjin Chapter 1: The Fates of Two Families

In the year 2700, in the semi-technologically advanced yet perilous country of Aether, danger always seemed to lurk in the shadows. It was a place where the Syndicates ruled, crime ran rampant, and ordinary people were left vulnerable to the whims of ruthless men. In this unforgiving world, two families-one bound by courage, the other by loyalty-found their fates entwined.

It all began, In the City of Aether, Solon Chousei, a man of quiet strength unyielding, resolve fighting against the thieves in Aether. One night, while portrolling the cities, Solon came across a young couple cornered by a gang of super-powered thugs-vicious men who thrived on terror. Couple were trapped, fearing for their lives. Solon, without hesitation, fought the thugs, a man who has the power to control metal within his body, saving the couple from what seemed like certain death. They had barely escaped the nightmare that had once consumed their lives, saved at the last moment by Solon, now, with the wife heavily pregnant. Before the couple can say thank you. Solon quickly tells them to meet him at his address. He quickly disappeared in the dark. With no hesitation, the couple safety went back home while Solon watched them carefully. Solon realizing that they lived close by to his home.

The next day, a man now named Gabriel was driving to the address in the neighborhood, and he met a woman named Faith Chousei. She was glowing with the warmth of someone who had found her own peace, yet there was a strength in her that Gabriel couldn't ignore. She introduced herself as Solon's wife, much to Gabriel's surprise. She, too, was expecting a child.

When Faith heard that Gabriel's wife, Maria, was pregnant also. she lit up with excitement. "You must bring her over," she insisted. "It's good for mothers to support each other.

That evening, Gabriel told Maria about Faith, and they both agreed it would be nice to meet another couple in the same stage of life. The following weekend, Gabriel and Maria visited Faith and Solon's home. Faith greeted them at the door, her belly round with child, and her husband Solon. a tall and sturdy man with kind eyes welcomed them warmly.

The Chevalier Family meets the Chousei family.

As the two couples sat in the cozy living room, they began to exchange stories about their lives, their hopes, and the shared journey of preparing for a new addition to their families. Faith and Maria bonded almost instantly, laughing about the challenges of pregnancy and sharing advice about baby names and nursery ideas. Gabriel and Solon found common ground as well, both men devoted to protecting and supporting their wives during this precious time. At the end of the day, the couple are in debt to Solon for saving them and their future child, Solon vowed to protect his family, particularly his pregnant wife, Faith. Little did they know that destiny had already set a deeper connection in motion.

Days turned into weeks, and the four became inseparable. Maria and Faith often spent their afternoons together, preparing for motherhood and growing closer as friends. Gabriel and Solon, ever watchful and protective, made sure their wives were safe and comfortable.

As the due dates approached, the bond between them grew stronger.

"I never imagined we'd be here," Maria said softly, looking at Gabriel with a smile. "After everything that's happened... to have this kind of peace."

Gabriel squeezed her hand. "We're blessed to have found friends like Solon and Faith. It makes this journey even more special."

Faith, rubbing her belly, nodded in agreement. "It's funny how life works. We've all faced our own struggles, but somehow, we found each other right when we needed it most."

Solon raised his glass. "To family-both the one we're born with and the one we choose."

As the months passed, the day they had been waiting for finally arrived. Both Maria and Faith went into labor just days apart. Gabriel and Solon stood by their sides, their hearts racing with excitement and anxiety. They knew they were about to become fathers, but their primary focus remained on ensuring that their wives were safe.