Epilogue

“You disobeyed me. You were supposed to undertake the journey alone and keep the situation confidential.”

The King of Elrus sits atop his throne, afternoon light spilling into the grand chamber. The towering dragon statue curled behind the seat of power glares down at me, its ruby eyes glimmering.

“Forgive me. It was an error in judgment.” I lower my eyes respectfully as Caio stands at my side.

“Don’t apologize. From the sound of it, I was in the wrong. It seems this young man possesses a powerful talent for magic. I’d be a fool not to respect and nurture such abilities. I’ll see if I can find a place for him in the military.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty!” Caio’s eyes widen in shock.

“Of course. I greatly appreciate what the two of you have accomplished.”

“M’lord, there’s something else.” I hesitate for a moment. “I want to be honest and open with you. T-the two of us are more than just friends…w-we’re in a relationship, and we don’t intend to hide it. I understand if you’d dismiss us for such a thing.”

The king stares in silence, leaning back in his throne before letting out an exhausted sigh.

“I suppose I should be surprised, but I’m not. I’ll be honest with you too—much has changed during your time away. My son left on a diplomatic mission to Balthia, Kingdom of the Magi. While there, he developed feelings for their prince. To make a long story short, he wishes to marry the young man.”

I look at the king in shock. If his son, the Crown Prince of Elrus, was caught in an illicit affair with the Prince of Balthia, that would be an unfathomable scandal. Balthia is a rival kingdom with a long history of conflict—such an event would have major political consequences.

“Would you ever allow such a thing?”

“My son has brought great shame upon the family, but I can hardly disown my only heir. I’ve been listening to him, and perhaps our nation is a bit too rigid in its ways. I’ve agreed to condone the relationship and allow the wedding. It’s caused shockwaves, but the populace overall respects my decision. Those who don’t are smart enough to keep to themselves.”

“Sir, that’s incredible.”

“Heath, I respect you—you’ve always been loyal and dependable. If you ever wish to wed your friend here, I’ll allow it. Perhaps in time, I’ll loosen the laws for all my subjects, but I’m still trying to wrap my mind around these things. I’m an old man who’s set in his ways. You and my son can help educate me.”

“T-thank you! This is an honor. We will continue to serve loyally and make Elrus proud!” I grin from ear to ear, my cheeks flushing slightly as I take Caio’s hand in mine.

This is the start of something big. I can feel it.

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