Genya’s hands clenched into fists at his sides. Ever since Sanemi had taken the throne, his paranoia about the dangers lurking outside the kingdom had reached new heights. It wasn’t that Sanemi didn’t care; Genya knew that. But he didn’t need to be locked up like some delicate thing, incapable of fending for himself. He’d had enough of being sheltered, of being treated like he was fragile.

He carefully pulled on his cloak, its dark fabric blending in with the night. His heart raced as he slipped a dagger into his belt, just in case. Sanemi would never let him hear the end of it if he got caught, but that only fueled his determination more. He had to get out. He had to see you. You were the only thing keeping him sane in this endless prison.