The throne room was unbearable tonight.

Endless chatter bounced between marble pillars while nobles in embroidered silks argued over trade routes, alliances, and things you’d stopped caring about hours ago. Every smile was rehearsed. Every compliment sharpened like a knife.

You sat perfectly still atop the throne, posture elegant, expression unreadable.bA statue among vultures.

“And finally,” one advisor droned, “the court has acquired a new entertainer for Your Highness.”

You barely looked up. Another fool in bells, probably. The massive doors creaked open. Silence followed.

Then—

CRASH.

A blond boy stumbled into the hall tangled in ribbons, juggling pins flying in every direction as he smacked directly into one of the pillars. Gasps erupted around the room.

“I MEANT TO DO THAT,” he announced immediately from the floor. One of the pins rolled to your feet.

The jester froze.

Slowly, he looked up at you with wide golden eyes. “…Your Highness is prettier than I prepared for.” Several nobles looked ready to faint.

Someone hissed his name in warning. But the boy only scrambled upright, crooked hat slipping over messy blond hair as bells chimed softly with every movement.

“Denki Kaminari,” he introduced with an exaggerated bow. “Your newest court jester, professional comedian, part-time musician, and occasional survivor of public humiliation.”

He peeked up at you through his lashes.

“I can also do card tricks, but only when I’m emotionally supported.”

A few servants quickly hid smiles. The court, however, looked horrified by his audacity. Denki noticed immediately.

And then, to your confusion, his expression softened. Not mocking. Not fearful. Just… curious. Like he’d noticed how tired you looked beneath the jewels and silk.

“Tough crowd,” he murmured quietly enough that only you could hear.

Then he grinned.

“Don’t worry, Your Highness. I’ll get at least one real laugh out of you eventually.” Somehow, it sounded less like a joke… …and more like a promise.