In the enchanted realm of Kenichi, where men and elves coexist in harmony, a shadow looms over the once peaceful kingdom. At its center stands Prince Sugi, a young heir to the throne whose journey from entitlement to enlightenment will shape the fat...
Under the beaming sun, Jimon rode his horse close to the palace as Sugi had advised him to do. He enjoyed his morning ride immensely, but more so when his partner and lover accompanied him. Today Sugi was occupied elsewhere since the whole of the palace was in an uproar at the coming birth of the prince's son or daughter. Jimon had awoken to the sudden shrill cries of the expectant mother that occupied the room next to theirs.
Sugi's comical face was a mixture of exultation and extreme fear, fluctuating between the two as the mumbled thoughts went through his brain. After Sugi collected his thoughts and was able to move, he ran to her side holding her hand gently to reassure her that she was not alone. Jimon took his leave but not before telling Sugi he was off for a ride.
He looked up at the palace that dominated the landscape even with the surreal waterfalls that surrounded it. He wondered if the baby had been born yet. It was not a good time to be born, he pondered. The threat of invasion and war was ever-present. Looking at the peaceful surroundings you wouldn't think an ancient evil being was intent on destroying their world by poisoning the minds of adjacent kingdoms against each other. Kingdoms that were once friendly were now poised to destroy each other. Sugi had much to worry about, but uppermost on his mind was the safety of his family. Jimon smiled because he knew Sugi considered him his family as well.
Jimon made his way over the bridge that connected the field he was on to the palace grounds, which included the gardens and waterfalls with meandering paths. Although the gardens were extensive, they managed to feel cozy and intimate beguiling their size with sinuous curves. He had been quite cheerful after his exhilarating ride and waved to the stern sentries that guarded the entrance to the palace.
He dismounted the horse and wiped the sweat from his brow. With swift skillful hands, he brushes the chocolate brown coat of his horse to a beautiful shine, his own shirt translucent from the sweat of his hard work. He looked up from his work suddenly startled by the trumpets that heralded the birth of a new prince. A genuine warmth filled his heart and he couldn't wait to meet the little prince or princess. He hurried into the palace excited to see his own little prince Sugi and hear what he had to say about this wonderful event.
Jimon thought how sweet his existence had become since he had come to know the prince intimately. He enjoyed his company immensely. He could stare at him for hours as he explained his thoughts and philosophy on life to his partner. Jimon knew Sugi would be a loving and attentive father, teaching his little one about life with tenderness and strength of character. Jimon couldn't wait to be part of all this. Although his heart was light he was also aware of the impending doom that even showed on the faces of the guards.
Jimon came into their shared room. He longed to gaze upon Sugi's happy face and see the infant. His eyes flew up to the man standing before him. Vante's tall lean body was leaning against the solid post of the bed. He turned toward Jimon giving him a disarming smile.
"Are you looking for Sugi as well?" Vante asked.
"Yes, I heard the trumpets. Is he with Maeve?"
"Quite so. I've been waiting here to congratulate him. I'm sorry if I have invaded your private space. I can wait in the hall if you wish."
Jimon stared at him before responding. Suddenly jealous and wondering if they had shared this very same bed. Suddenly the prince walked in, his face revealing his happiness, and Jimon's grin grew broader at the sight of his love. Vante was closer and hugged him first.
"How are they?" Vante asked letting go of Sugi who immediately searched for the arms of his lover.
They hugged tightly as Sugi spoke into his shoulder. "I was so anxious, but thank God everything is just perfect. I'm so glad you're here to share in my happiness!"
"Can we see it?" Jimon exclaimed.
Sugi laughed realizing he had not said the sex of the baby yet. "Yes, soon. Maeve is feeding him now." He looks up at Jimon whose eyes are wide with excitement. "Yes, it's a boy!"
"Wonderful!" Jimon said as Vante hugged both of them.
"Does he look like you?" Vante asked.
"He has violet hair just like me," Sugi beamed.
"I don't believe it!" Vante said in wonder.
"It's not a lie! You will see it very soon!" Sugi turned to face Jimon. "Oh Jimon, I'm so happy. This must be a sign. I feel so hopeful that everything will turn out okay. This precious baby has given me hope."
"Let's have a toast to the baby's health," said Jimon. They walked out of the room to find the worried countenance of Jeon waiting by the door.
"How is she? How is Maeve?"
"She is fine, Jeon, and so is the baby," Sugi adds with a smile. He realizes the Jeon and Maeve have grown close.
"Oh, yes," he said his face full of contrition, "I beg your forgiveness, your highness."
"Come with us Jeon, we are going to have a toast. Let's find my father so he can join us," Sugi smiled kindly making Jeon feel better.
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