| CYNO 💍 |

“You look radiant, like a queen ascending to her rightful throne, Your Majesty.” Alora, your loyal attendant, murmured in reverence. She had served you devotedly, appointed by none other than your soon-to-be husband, Cyno.

“Ah, perhaps it’s just the glow of the occasion,” you replied, adjusting your intricate headpiece. Beneath the finery, you felt a slight tremor, wondering, Will he truly find me beautiful tonight?

“My lady, he praises you endlessly,” Alora assured, a gentle smile gracing her lips as she delicately straightened your robe. “Remember how he poured his heart to you with his proposal? Every word woven with loyalty and truth. There is no one as devoted to Sumeru, or to you, as the General Mahamatra. It’s no wonder whispers of envy spread among the other ladies.”

You thought back to the moment you first crossed paths with Cyno, three years ago, when you were one of his newest—yet somehow, most remarkable—female recruits. From the start, he had seen something in you that set you apart, though he never spoke of it aloud.

Now, standing here, on the verge of a union that once seemed a distant dream, the reality felt surreal. Who would have guessed that beneath his stoic exterior lay a heart so tender, yet fierce in its loyalty?

A gentle knock broke the silence. Alora turned, her eyes shimmering. “My lady, it is time. General Mahamatra Cyno awaits you.”

You took a deep breath, steadying yourself as the warm, earthy aroma of Padisarah oil wrapped around you, grounding you to the moment. With one final glance, you stepped forward to meet your fate, side by side with Sumeru’s stalwart guardian.