The Vice Captain of the Crimson Lions

Family is more than Blood

Aphi paced back and forth outside the church. He was nervous, to say the least. He picked at his nails and kept ruffling his hair. His red eyes flitted around to try to catch Mynx's spirit guardian. He has faced many challenges growing up in such a dangerous kingdom, but this? He has never had training on anything like this.

Aphi's pacing became more erratic as the sound of footsteps grew louder. His breath caught as Mereoleona, Fuegoleon, Leopold, and Xander stepped into view. Their presence radiated authority and an unspoken warning, making the young man feel as though the temperature around him had suddenly risen.

Mereoleona's sharp voice cut through the night air like a blade,

"So. You are the kid asking to court Mynx?"

Aphi immediately brought his hand to his chest to salute them,

"Yes sir,"

Fuegoleon's piercing gaze narrowed, and he stepped closer,

"What makes you think you are good enough for Mynx? Why are you sending us letters."

Aphi lowered his hand and straightened his posture, forcing himself to meet Fuegoleon's intense gaze,

"I wanted to go in person. But, I did not want Mynx to suspect anything. I also do not know where to go as I have only ever stepped foot inside the Clover Kingdom Capital one time. I am not good enough for Mynx, but no one will ever be good enough for her. She deserves the stars and the moon. But I care about her deeply. I wouldn't be standing here if it wasn't for her regardless if it was this kingdom or any of them."

Xander crossed his arms,

"Why write letters to so many people?"

Aphi rubbed the back of his neck, his nerves clear in the small, restless motion,

"Because she values all of your opinions. I didn't want to ask her if I didn't have everyone's blessing. If I wasn't accepted, I would have stayed quiet and kept loving her from the sidelines,"

Leopold narrowed his eyes,

"Love? You're saying you love her?"

Aphi's cheeks flushed, but he met Leopold's eyes, unflinching,

"Yes. I love her, I know I do."

Mereoleona's eyes narrowed, scrutinizing him as if she could see into his very soul,

"What makes you say that?"

Aphi's lips curved into a soft, almost wistful smile as he glanced toward the church,

"When I saw her falling after using all her mana, I saw someone remarkable. Honest, selfless, and hopeful. She didn't have to do what she did, but she did it anyway. After I caught her, she told me to take her back and then run. She even gave me a safe place to go if I needed it: here, to Hage, to Father Orsi. No one has ever shown me kindness in my life, not until her. When I took her back to the Diamond Kingdom, I knew it wasn't safe for her, but I had to bide my time. When you finally came for her, I took out the guards so you'd have a clear shot at getting her out. Then, I fled here. Father Orsi welcomed me, and for the first time, I felt like I belonged somewhere. When Mynx returned, she didn't judge me for my past. She asked for my help watching the kids, and in return, she trusted me to keep her secrets. I understand if you want me to leave, but I don't want to lose the one family I've found. I'll respect your decision, no matter what it is."

Mereoleona stepped closer, her towering presence forcing Aphi to tilt his head up,

"What if she is ever in danger?"

Leopold crossed his arms,

"What if the Diamond Kingdom comes for her?"

Aphi's expression softened into something both sad and resolute,