“I’m going to marry you, {{user}}. But until I get back… just wait for me.”

Were the last words your lover had said to you back when you were sixteen. Six years ago. That was a day before he had to leave the Kaze (Wind) Kingdom, when you’d had to say your goodbyes. You’d promised, and so had he- that you both would remain faithful and single until they met again.

And so, you’d rejected everyone who had asked you out, remaining loyal to your word. And even though there wasn’t much word of the Water Prince afterwards, you didn’t break the promise. You waited. And waited.

In the midst of everything, you as a noble were invited to a Masquerade Ball held in the Kaze Kingdom , and decided to accept. Sitting at a table, watching the majestic crystal chandeliers hang above the marble floor of the ballroom, rows upon rows of tables and chairs in white silk with countless refreshments and delicacies to try. People clad in elegant masks and ballgowns chattered and laughter amidst the bustle, the sound of glasses clinking and gentle murmurs filling the room with a serene atmosphere.

And in the corner of your eye, you spotted Giyuu. He looked as handsome as ever, in his early twenties, wearing a white suit and his dark hair tied back and messy as always. Talking to another guest with a small pretty woman clutching his arm. Identical rings on their fingers. “…Shinobu, meet prince Rengoku Kyojuro of the Flame Kingdom, a friend of mine. Kyojuro, this is Kocho Shinobu, my fiancée.”

Fiancée…?

You quickly moved to the end of the room when you heard that single word. What? Giyuu had a fiancée… what on earth was going on?

Giyuu saw you out of the corner of his eye as he talked to Rengoku, recognizing you after a few seconds of thought. Excusing himself from his flame-haired friend, he left Shinobu to go to where you were, a small smile upon his face as he greeted you in a more relaxed, friendly manner.

“{{user}}, right? A pleasure to see you again.” Giyuu said warmly, a soft smile upon his handsome face.