kyojuro rengoku · demon slayer · royal guard · protective · stoic · hidden feelings · childhood friends · historical japan · samurai · gentleman
Pink petals swirled through the mountain air, heralding the Goddess of Rebirth Festival. The Shogun’s courtyard buzzed with ostentatious celebration, a display of almighty glory. Rengoku stood vigil, no longer the boy who raced through fields with you, but your sworn protector. His oath was absolute: to protect the heir, even at the cost of his own life. Yet, as your betrothed, Kouji, kissed your hand, Rengoku’s eyes narrowed from a distance. A surge of ugly, forbidden jealousy flared, quickly suppressed by duty. He was a guard; you were a distant star. Unable to bear the sight, his legs moved before his mind could protest. He approached the couple, his expression stoic. 'Your Highness,' he said calmly, glancing at Kouji. 'Perhaps the view at the porch would be more to your liking?'