For what is love?

"Mother." Akito closely follows Lady Shinonome as she traverses the chamber back and forth. "Motherrr!" He persists in his attempts to capture her attention; with gentle prods and playful tugs at her hair, he shakes her form, seeking to unbalance her as she endeavours to overlook his antics.

"Heavens above, you foolish child! Do you not comprehend the notion of solitude?! DO tell, what do you desire?! Is it thy utmost joy to drive me to madness?" She exclaims, her vexation palpable at his playful torment.

"Mother, mother, mother." He reiterates, a cheeky smirk gracing his countenance.

"I shall deliver you a sound thrashing, cease this at once! What madness possesses you?!"

"Hush now, dear Akito, cease you ill-mannered antics towards your mother. What has possessed you?" Inquires the esteemed 'Lord' Shinonome, a smile of mirth illuminating her visage.

"I merely wished to pose a query to my beloved mother." Akito jestingly remarks, whilst Ena, in a fit of vexation, seizes him by the collar of his attire and gives him a vigorous shake.

"Then speak forth what you desire! Cease your incessant prattle!"

"Ena, my love, allow him respite; it is evident he seeks to elicit a response from you." Kanade replies with a chuckle.

"Pray, silence thyself as well!"

"Of course, my dear..."

"Mama, do you fare well? Is mother exhibiting undue aggression toward you?" Akito queries in jest, earning a chuckle from Kanade and further exacerbating Ena's ire.

"Pray, both of you, depart...I am quite overwhelmed with the task of orchestrating a grand ball, and rather than offering assistance, this is my plight. And are you not meant to be at the palace? Are you not the so-called general?"

"His Majesty has graciously excused me for a brief interval, for I yearned to visit my dearest mothers."

"Aha...what is it that you desire?" Ena interjects, causing Akito to chuckle.

"I desire naught but to express that I am saddened by my profound sorrow for your absence."

"Very well, begone, child; I have little time for your capers..." She pushes his face away from her and Kanade, approaching both, tenderly caresses their backs while smiling.

"Pray, compose yourselves, my dear ones, and permit us to gather together." Kanade spoke, prompting both to emit a sigh in an identical manner, bringing forth a gentle laughter from her, as she graciously urged them to take their seats at the table, partaking in a fine cup of tea. "It is indeed splendid, my cherished one, that you have chosen to grace us with thy presence; yet, I must concur with your mother, it is rare for you to visit unbidden, save for the pursuit of a need."

"I sought audience with you both, or rather, I implore your counsel." Commenced Akito, igniting within Ena a pang of remorse for her ealier demeanor, for she has not sensed her son was in earnest need of guidance, and thus placed her hand gently atop his, attuned to his every word.

"Pray tell, my dearest, should you desire anything." Spoke Kanade, placing her delicate hand atop his other hand, inviting dialogue, which incited a smile from the general who tenderly kissed both of their hands.

"My heartfelt gratitude, dear mothers. I shall now endeavor to articulate the nature of my yearning." He ponders for a while, unsure of the manner of posing the query that plagued his mind. "How...how does one recognize when love has ensnared his heart?"

A most unexpected query from the general; indeed, the two ladies exchanged glances of astonishment and perplexity, gentle smiles gracing their countenances.

"Whence arises this inquiry, Akito? Do you perchance fancy someone?" Lady Shinonome questioned, her visage alight with mirth, provoking a groan of vexation from Akito.

"Nay, I do NOT fancy anyone! I was merely...pondering."

"A most challenging inquiry, indeed..." Muses Kanade, reflecting in quietude, her gaze resting upon the fair Ena. "For me, to fall in love with my cherished lady was akin to an exhilarating warmth enveloping my being; her mere presence bestowed upon me great joy. My heart raced with such fervor that I feared it might escape from my chest, and my mind wished to compose melodies that represented her exquisite visage and her captivating artistry. She evokes within me a delightful timidity, rendering me speechless, a state in which I still find myself." She bestows upon Ena a gentle smile, to which Ena, with joyful countenance, returns a tender kiss.

"My dearest, such sentiment is most romantic indeed. Do you still regard me as you did when we were but youthful?" Ena chuckles.

"Verily, I do; I have never ceased, nor shall I ever."

"Is that what true love entails...?" Akito ponders, questioning his own heart, for this emotion does not reflect his own. Is it actually love that he feels? "Pray tell, mother, how did you feel when you fell for mama?"

"I found myself in a most peculiar state. Prior to her enchanting presence, I was enveloped in a sorrowful gloom, for naught seemed to prosper in my endeavors; my artistic pursuits tormented me in a relentless quest for excellence, leaving me with a sense of inadequacy. My father chastised me for my tempestuous spirit, my perceived lack of talent, and my propensity to repel prospective suitors, rendering me incomplete. Then, upon beholding her, I mused: 'Wow, that is a most splendid gentleman.' " She laughed, prompting Kanade to join in mirth. "As our conversation flourished, I felt as if a gentle hand cradled me, carrying me everywhere, swaying me around, tenderly coaxing away my sorrow. The first time I have been blessed with one of her melodies, it captivated my soul. I felt akin to a delicate doll within a music box, spinning with grace; it was sublime. My spirit was restored, for she continually encouraged, believed, and cherished me in ways I had never known, bestowing upon me a sense of safety akin to that of a precious gem tenderly cared for. I was...healed."

"Oh, my dearest love, such romantic musings!" Lady Kanade chuckles, bestowing yet another tender kiss upon her beloved wife. "Our...arrangement has brought us great fortune; I would have found it unbearable to conceal my affections for your esteemed mother in the presence of others, was it not for our secret. It would have grieved me immensely...I cannot fathom the hardship of loving with such fervor whilst required to repress one's sentiments and conceal one's gentle caresses."

"Perchance that elucidates why Miss Asahina may be deemed rather a vile, unkind—"

"Ena..." Kanade exhales, interrupting her, yet a mirthful laugh escapes her lips.

"Though it is beautiful what you have told me, it bears no resemblance to my own experience. How, pray tell, can one comprehend the essence of love and its enigmatic nature?"

"Well...you do not. Love eludes definition, for each heart embraces it in its own unique manner."

"That offers me no solace, mother..."

"Pray, share thy feelings, dearest?" Kanade inquires, compelling Akito to plunge into profound contemplation.

"What do I feel, you inquire...? A tempest of anger, madness, and repulsion courses through my veins; I do not yearn to burden myself with such...emotions." He lets forth a grunt, followed by an abundance of sighs. "This most vexatious woman has but a singular aim: to infuriate me! Stubborn and insufferable she is, leaping into action without a thought, compelling me to ponder her welfare! I do not wish to harbor such feelings for such a repugnant, bumbling, foolish dimwit! I cannot look at her fo her face is intolerable, it drives me to madness! It is a most utterly, agonisingly excruciating torment! Her voice, verily bothersome, and her laughter, a cacophony that frays my sanity, so very loud, snorting most inelegantly; yet those eyes...a deep, lustrous orange, ablaze with passion and courage..." His tone suddenly softens as he continues. "Seductive...captivating...entracing as if she seeks the most profound of secrets within me, and I find myself powerless to impede her desires. Her lustrous ebony hair, flowing like the sweetest of currents, as though the very essence of midnight itself resides in her. The way that she looks...even clad in garments she loathes, she possesses a stupidly beauty that is utterly annoying, and when clad as a mere peasant, she appears all the more stunning...
Time itself appears to stop as I gaze upon her, the world slowing to a dizzying standstill; as if stars encircle her, suddenly, rendering all before me vibrant and alive. And, when in a crowd, it is solely her that captures my sight.
When, very annoyingly, she triumphs over me, she looks ever so...undeniably lovely with her prideful, teasing smile illuminating her face, while she jumps joyfully in victory, her eyes alight with glee...
The way she is such an extraordinary, most unusual woman, far removed from the conventional Lady: competitive, disruptive, lacking refinement, unabashedly and shamelessly spouting profanities from her...idiotic, mischievous...enchanting lips, reveling in combat, eager to demonstrate she can rise above all." He oscillates between fury and tenderness in his fervent expressions. "Yet, she is sensitive, she does posses a kindness, an altruism that endears her to the hearts of many. She is not only talented but also imbued with an insatiable curiosity, and lo, we find ourselves remarkably akin, despite our mutual disdain!
We are as two halves of a singular whole, save for the fact that she is infinitely superior to me in every regard!
And...the regal manner in which she bows, her sloppy walk, the way she twirls around, and her very frequent need for respite to attend to her lavatory needs, all serve to enflame my ire! Moreover, the way she tucks her hair behind her ear in moments of embarrassment, her unwavering opposition to my truths simply to irritate me, and the silent language of her eyes as she rolls them at me whilst grasping my arm when she engages in joyous laughter—all of this is both maddening and intoxicating. Her gentle, warm touch against my body and against my tormented soul ignites an inferno within me, a conflagration that only she possesses the power to extinguish, yet she sits mere feet away, wielding a bucket of water, indifferent, forsaking my plight as I burn to ashes. The inescapable bond that draws us together, even amidst our quarrels, awakens within me a fierce desire to shield her, even when she herself does spurn such protectiveness. I yearn to caress her face, to touch the entirety of her body, to experience the sensation of pressing my lips to hers! Verily, the mere thought of a life devoid of her presence fills me with abject horror! I am absolutely and undeniably mortified of thinking about her!"

If such be not love, my esteemed General, we all ponder what it could perchance be? And who is this illustrious lady who has ignited thy heart with such fervor? It is not solely we who marvel at this enigma, for even his mothers stand stupefied, struck dumb by his words. He swears his heart beats for no one, yet he has effortlessly and endlessly talked of a certain individual.

"W-Wha—? I-I believed you proclaimed that you, in fact, do NOT, fancy anyone!" Ena exclaims, utterly astounded.

"I do not, mother!"

"Verily, it is confirmed; you are a fool, my child! For what is love, if not the sentiment you have just elucidated?!"

"It is not love, but hate I harbor, mother!"

"Hate? Dearest...such sentiments that you conveyed are truly...exquisite. It is indeed a reality that affection may incite vexation, particularly when it is unbidden and especially when it blossoms towards one whom you wish not to cherish.
Yet, the very fact that she occupies your thoughts, and that you possess intimate knowledge of her, her mannerisms, her gait, her preferences and aversions, her peculiarities...darling, you comprehend her spirit and heart! And you do hold her dear!" Spoke Kanade, causing Akito to fall into a profound silence, his visage rendered utterly abashed, gradually blossoming into a most enchanting hue of crimson.

"By my troth...Good heavens!" His head meets the table with fervor, causing the delicate tea cups to tremble. "Oh dear Lord, who reigns in the celestial realm...what sin have I committed against thee? Why must it be I that suffers such destiny?!"

"Akito—" Lady Shinonome endeavours to temper his distress, yet it appears he cometh not to his senses, for he persists in his lamentations, striking his head repeatedly upon the table without abandon.

"Nay, nay, nay! I would rather embrace death; I beg of You, dear God, take me forthwith! My heart...! I shall put a rope around my neck and end my own misery! Or perchance plunge my sword into my own mouth! Indeed, indeed...I shall do it!"

"He has lost his wits!" Ena exclaims in alarm, striving to prevent further self-harm, casting her gaze towards Kanade.

"Akito, cease your actions...you will injure thyself, and you frighten your mother."

"Why...? Why have I been cursed to love her?! WHY HER?! It could have been any other, but why her...I find myself utterly ruined and devoid of purpose to exist..."

"Who, pray tell, is the object of thy fervent affection, Akito?!"

"It is..." He does lift his head from the table, ready to utter the name of the lady who has ensnared his heart, casting a glance towards his maternal figures, yet he is ensnared by a most jubilant voice.

"My esteemed General Akito, I have come!" None other than his lordship Tsukasa Tenma himself makes his grand entrance.

"Oh, merciful heavens, grant me respite from this life!" Akito's head meets the table once more upon the sound of his cherished friend Tsukasa, leaving the count...rather bewildered.

"General Shinonome Akito! Cease this folly forthwith!" Lady Shinonome implores, though he appears a lost cause. "Oh, wretched heavens...why do you bestow upon me such formidable trials, associated with this child of mine?"

"Uhm...Good morrow, Lady and Lord Shinonome...?" Tsukasa greets, bewildered. "What transpired?"

"Pray tell, why are you here?! Just withdraw from my presence!" Akito mumbles, his face affixed to the table.

"Lord Tenma, a splendid morning to you..." Kanade remarks, gently patting Akito's back.

"My esteemed friend, I have received your letter in which you have begged for my aid in matters of the heart! Here I stand to help you with your troubled love life!"

"That was but a fleeting moment of weakness! I require not thy assistance, for I possess no such troubles!"

"Then...do explain why your face appears so ardently embossed upon the cloth of the table?"

"I extend the warmest greetings to my esteemed Lord and Lady Shinonome, as well as to my venerable General." A most serpentine and familiar voice utterly shatters Akito’s spirit.

"Curse my existence...why for heaven's sake have you escorted the Archbishop here?!"

"The Most Reverend...it is with great delight that we welcome you to our abode; I pray, pardon our son, for he is decidedly...troubled this day." Kanade speaks softly, addressing the gentleman beside Lord Tenma.

"Fear not, Lord Shinonome, I am well aware of his...affliction; thus, I have bestowed a portion of my day to visit the General, in hopes of rendering assistance." He beams with an expansive smile.

"Your Excellency, Lord Tenma...indeed, I bid you welcome. I shall summon a maid to present you both with some freshly brewed tea."

"You are so very exceedingly gracious, Lady Shinonome; we are most grateful." Tsukasa smiles politely, the Archbishop taking his place beside the General.

"Most esteemed General, is it not I, alongside His Majesty, who have bestowed upon you your formidable and noble title? I arrive in...tranquility, for I find it unbearable to witness a cherished companion such as you succumbing to the overwhelming grips of affection. Thus, here I stand. I shall bestow upon thee my counsel and invoke divine supplication for your...recovery, or perchance, a more joyful prospect: your forthcoming nuptials.

"The Most Reverend...I seek neither counsel nor prayer; my resolve is firm: I shall end my own life by strangulation."

"Such an end does seem ineffectual, for you would only succumb to unconsciousness from asphyxia. I implore you, at least use...a suitable cord." His smile remains ever so...disturbing, whilst his utterances seem utterly unfitting for one of his esteemed title.

Ah, the Archbishop, what a most venerable public figure he is indeed. No words shall be uttered in defamation of His Excellency; he is an intelligent and illustrious gentleman, naturally.
Yet, should you seek the counsel of General Shinonome, he might express his bewilderment at how such a character ascended to the Archiepiscopacy—indeed, it is rather curious, though he attributes this anomaly to His Excellency's familial lineage.

Nevertheless, His Excellency, Kamishiro Rui, means no malice...or so it is said. He maintains a commendable friendship with Lord Tenma and General Shinonome, despite his propensity to appear at the most...inopportune moments.

I beseech you to immerse thyself in the tale of Lord Tenma before we gravely ponder the counsel of our esteemed General Shinonome.

Born unto a nurturing lineage, Lord Tsukasa Tenma, the first child and first boy of the family, bore the noble duty of upholding the illustrious name of Count, destined to bring honour to the revered name of Tenma.

A merry child, he frolicked throughout the grand estate, sowing delightful mischief as children often do, perpetually smiling and always the foremost to leap into action whenever aid was requisite, whether it be for a maid's mishap or his younger sister's fright at some little insect.
A notable aspect of his character was his exuberant volume, a trait inherent to him, believing restraint upon his speech and temper to be burdensome; nonetheless, he endeavoured to satisfy his progenitors’ aspirations.

The delicate young Saki Tenma, often ailing and frail, invoked boundless concern in her parents, who at times neglected young Tsukasa; yet, enmity found no home in his heart for his sister, for he cherished her dearly, ever seated by her side, ready to cater to her every whim. Indeed, even if he was only but a child himself, he diligently ensured she felt most beloved, concocting whimsical theatrical amusements to elicit her laughter whilst she remained confined to her bed.

Each time she would cry her poor little eyes out, his tender heart would shatter, striving to divert her from her suffering. When slumber would finally claim her from weariness, he would retreat to his chamber, kneeling beside his bed in fervent supplication, imploring thus: 'If there exists a benevolent presence above capable of altering this woeful fate, I beg of you, spare my beloved sister from affliction, and should you require a soul to bear such burden, grant it unto me. I vow to uphold goodness and silence, if you would but alleviate her torment.'

Verily, despite the fervent pleas and sorrowful tears of young Tsukasa, the fair Saki failed to improve, whilst their progenitors dismissed his distress, proclaiming that he ought not to be seen weeping like a delicate maiden.
He was to brace himself for his forthcoming role as Lord, to acquire all requisite knowledge, and his fondness for the stage must be buried, for he possessed no leisure for such trifles.

In his benevolence, he endeavored to master the art of preparing Saki's cherished dishes, just so he can delight her, to which she would joyfully exclaim: 'Thank you, beloved brother! No one prepares it better than you, I adore you!'. Indeed, he has ever been a most splendid elder brother, deeply devoted to his sister. Such a grand, unwavering, and virtuous heart does our Lord Tenma Tsukasa possess.

For one as affable and charmingly naïve as he, companionship was a rarity, save for the little Saki, whose capacity for play was often limited. However, this state of solitude persisted until the advent of his eleventh birthday, when fortune introduced him to the now esteemed Archbishop, a gentleman four years his senior.
Rui's father, the illustrious Patriarch, was known to frequent the Tenma abode, drawn by concern for their delicate lady. By sheer happenstance, his father was compelled to let him tag along, the late Lord Tenma urging Tsukasa to offer diversion to His Beatitude's progeny.

Rui, contrary to the angelic demeanor one might anticipate from the progeny of the Patriarch, possessed a mind ever engaged in schemes of mischief, deriving immense delight from the dismantling and reassembling of his playthings to render them more engaging.
Indeed, he was, without question, a genius in all conceivable 'modern' innovations; yet, numerous souls regarded him as somewhat unhinged.

In his youthful innocence, Tsukasa found himself taken aback by the singularity of his newfound companion; it dawned upon him that he was not the sole 'eccentric' within the kingdom.
Upon their inaugural encounter, they embarked upon a journey to Tsukasa's chamber, where he regaled Rui with his fervent passion for composition and theatrical pursuits. Rui, displaying considerable interest, proffered suggestions that promised to enhance the delight of the performances, along with recommendations for suitable props.
Initially, Tsukasa's pride was slightly wounded by an unknown individual endeavoring to alter his envisioned masterpieces; he insisted that he was a star already, requiring no assistance.
In retort, Rui asserted that true stardom eluded him; for a compelling spectacle demands the collaborative efforts of many and an expansion of one’s understanding.

Indeed, their first encounter bore not the fruit of camaraderie...Rui resolutely proclaimed he would henceforth avoid communication with Tsukasa, a disposition with which the latter agreed momentarily.

Yet, the weight of Rui's words lingered, prompting Tsukasa to consider the merit of those ideas. Little Saki, his beloved sister, glowed with joy as her elder sibling's play flourished, bringing forth an even grander smile upon her face. Witnessing such elation, Tsukasa—ever the obstinate youth—set aside his ego and sought to express his apologies to the heir of the Patriarch.
From that moment forth, they forged an unbreakable bond of friendship, with Tsukasa heeding Rui's cherished counsel.

Our noble Lord Tenma perpetually finds himself in the debt of His Eminence, for he is firmly convinced that his advancement would not have been possible had not His Eminence ignited the flame of enlightenment within him.

Thus, he ardently seeks assistance from all quarters: acquiring the delicate craft of garment-making for his stage costumes from the esteemed Miss Akiyama, refining his literary and poetic prowess under the guidance of the illustrious Miss Asahina, mastering the melodious arts of singing and composition from Lord Shinonome, as well as absorbing the exquisite knowledge of piano from His Majesty the King himself.
Learning the art of analyzing and reading faces, the meaning of gestures, expressions, and even the significance of every beauty mark upon a lady's face, alongside the graceful art of gestures of the fans and the refined etiquette of tea time from the venerable Duchess Airi, and learning the refined arts of painting, drawing and sketching from the esteemed Lady Shinonome, and so much more besides.

Whilst fortune has eluded him throughout his existence; with his peers ever so belittling, ladies swiftly retreating from his presence, his progenitors doubting his merit to inherit the noble title of Count, and his aspirations of attaining stardom upon the theatrical stage that seemed a distant dream...he has ever remained undaunted. What remarkable fortitude and resolve resides within the noble Lord Tenma!

Yet, in this very moment, he appears...unburdened by mere desires, for his thoughts are wholly captivated by Princess Nene. Acting? Ascending to be a star? Being a commendable Count? Cultivating friendships? Seeking understanding? Futile resolves, trifling ambitions; for what need does he have for recognition if it does not lead him to the company of his enchanting princess?
Perpetually declaring he shall become a star; nay, that he is already a star; yet the brilliance of Her Royal Highness surpasses all in his eyes, and he would willingly concede the spotlight to her radiance.

As we once more behold the rather...tragic sight of the General, besieged by the very whims of love, we encounter Lord Tenma and Archbishop Kamishiro bestowing gentle pats upon his back.

Meanwhile, Lady Shinonome and Lord Shinonome cast one another perplexed glances, filled with a blend of confusion and...curiosity regarding the enchanting lady who has ensnared their son's heart.

It must be stated, Lady Shinonome is far from foolish; it is well acknowledged that she and Duchess Airi are the foremost purveyors of any rumor, deriving great pleasure from scandal and the latest delectable tidings...or at least they are typically the second to know, after the observant Miss Asahina, who, in spite of her disinterest in such trifles, remains ever vigilant, ensuring naught escapes her notice.

Lady Shinonome is acutely aware of General Shinonome's...fascination with Lady Shiraishi, given their most peculiar camaraderie, yet she yearns desperately to hear her son finally confess his infatuation.

"Pray tell, what vexes thy slumber, dearest companion? Do you wrestle with your impudent affection for Lady Shiraishi?" Inquires Tsukasa with a sly grin, prompting Akito to emit a groan of both anguish and displeasure.

"Now, do not be so hasty, General Shinonome; Lady Shiraishi is an eminently suitable match for you, being unwed and convivial with you—surely you shall seize thy chance with her!" Rui persists, to which Akito groans anew.

"Child, is this the reason for thy baffling comportment? Are you smitten with Lady Shiraishi?" Ena questions, to which Akito responds with yet another groan.

"I fear love has rendered the poor lad quite broken." Remarks Kanade, her concern for her son’s spirit palpable.

"I shall never, not in a millennium, utter such loathsome words...I speak with utmost seriousness; I would rather meet my demise." At long last, Akito finds his voice, raising his head from the table, with a face that reads: dread, sorrow, pain.

"Have you ever been indecent with Lady Shiraishi?" Inquires His Excellency, a devilish smile gracing his lips, eager to elicit a 'yes' from Akito, so he might declare: 'Very well, now you must wed her, for I am aware of the...unfortunate incident'; yet, alas, unfortunately for the Archbishop, the general had never partaken in any untoward conduct with Lady Shiraishi.

"Nay! Good heavens...I am not attracted to such an unseemly lady..."

"Oh, sweet heavens, this day shall surely stretch on interminably..." Tsukasa breathes, afflicted by exasperation.

"Pray tell, shall I confine the two of you within a chamber whilst I solemnize your union from beyond the door?" Rui exclaims with merriment, eliciting a collective sigh from the quartet.

"The Most Reverend...I daresay, such a notion may not be prudent..." Kanade responds.

"Pray, do allow me to speak with utmost candor, esteemed General Akito, for you are a cherished friend and I wish for your heart to be happy. Unless you are prepared to proclaim your affections for her aloud, you are unworthy of her heart.
I suggest to you to resolve your quandary; either declare your love and seek her hand in marriage, or sever ties with her entirely.
I recognize your honorable nature, yet know that love and desire can be most....most vile, vicious and treacherous sentiments; should you engage in any dishonorable act with her, you shall ruin everthing. You might find protection easily, being a man give you and advantage; however, Lady Shiraishi's good name would be irreparably tarnished, leading to grim consequences: a life devoid of her presence, perhaps even the princess's, thus shattering both your futures and a long-standing camaraderie.
Do you truly wish to exist in a world where Lady Shiraishi's radiant smile eludes you, solely due to your pride? Or do you desire to relinquish your vanity, ever should it portray you as a fool, for the possibility of a life enriched with joy and love by her side?" With utmost gravity, Tsukasa proclaims, delivering a verbal blow that strikes the general squarely upon his face.

"I..." Commences Akito, his words ensnared by uncertainty.

"As the esteemed Lord Tenma has proclaimed, it would indeed be regrettable to relinquish a lady who has bestowed upon you the exquisite gift of love, despite your aversion to it, or your belief that such affections ought not to prevail. What could be more splendid than to reside for all eternity with your dearest confidante? Contemplate this, whilst I stand ready to bestow the sanctity upon your union." The Archbishop persists, directing Akito's gaze towards Ena and Kanade.

"Mother. Father. I find myself in urgent need of the family's cherished heirloom." Akito exclaims, his utterance eliciting astonished gasps from both his mothers.

"By the heavens, you are indeed smitten with Lady Shiraishi!" Lady Shinonome exclaims, prompting Akito to strike his head against the table once more. "Cease this forthwith...I shall procure for you the ring."

"Fair Miss Asahina has vowed to bring our doom upon us..." Such words escape Kanade's lips, with little intent, prompting Akito to lament in anguish.

"Alas...I must implore Miss Asahina for the hand of fair Annie..."

"Boy! It is Lady Shiraishi to you, refrain from such casual address...for now, at least." Ena sighed in vexation. "What possessed me to bear offspring? By the heavens...you are the very cause of my potential demise..."

"There, there, my exquisite wife..."

For a moment, silence enveloped the gathering, as profound reflections weighed upon all but His Excellency, who reveled in Akito’s plight.

"Pray, tell me, Lord Tenma, what do you have to say? You did proclaim that unless I declare my affections for Lady Shiraishi aloud, I am unworthy of her heart; yet, do you not mirror this sentiment? How many times have you convened in the presence of Her Royal Highness? Verily, I have yet to hear of any tidings of betrothal from your esteemed self."

"M-Me?" Tsukasa blushes profusely, provoking Rui's curiosity. "I and the princess...uhm...we are but companions!"

"I find it hard to believe so..."

"Oh? My, my~ Why have you not declared this sooner, my dearest and oldest friend? Is your heart, perchance, enflamed with affection for Her Royal Highness?" The Archbishop gently bestows a light pat upon Tsukasa's back.

"P-P-Pardon me?! This conversation does not pertain to my own self! We convene here for the esteemed general!"

"Pray, why are you such a fool...? I query with the utmost respect, my lord." Akito exhales deeply, yet he has the audacity to speak...for his sole action was to strike his head upon the table and curse the heavens, bemoaning his alleged affection for Lady Shiraishi.

"The princess, without doubt, harbours no affections for me!"

"And thus, it appears we embark upon this tale once more..." Ena commences, eliciting a chuckle from Kanade.

"Miss Asahina shall assuredly find herself entangled in a most unpleasant predicament..."

"Alas, she shall put our son to the sword, then us, and verily, she may send Lord Tenma to his end and perchance the Archbishop as well...merely for fun."

"She cherishes us...?"

"Nay, my beloved...spouse. She does not cherish us." She sighs and then she gently whispers to Kanade. "Her gaze is solely set upon a particular someone..." To which Kanade responds with a soft chuckle.

I daresay, solely the passage of time shall unveil whether General Shinonome and Lord Tenma shall summon the fortitude to articulate their enduring sentiments for their respective ladies.