Ei Sei - Kingdom

There were three of us orphans: Shin, Hyou, and me. Between the three of us, life was hard, but also full of laughter and impossible dreams. Hyou and I were a couple, and our love gave us the strength to face each day. Shin, always competitive, would fight with Hyou every time we went into the forest to collect firewood. These weren't normal fights: they were tests, rehearsals to become the best generals in the world. I watched from afar, smiling, enjoying every moment, and making sure no one got hurt too badly.

One day, as they were fighting and arguing over who was stronger, a man passed by and saw them. His presence was imposing and silent; he seemed to be sizing them up, assessing them. Shin and Hyou didn't notice, and the man left without a word.

On our way back to the village, we ran into him again. This time, he charged forward and took Hyou away, leaving us unable to do anything. Shin was furious, shouting and ready to chase him, but I stopped him, holding him tightly. “We’ll find him,” I whispered, trying to calm his anger and our fear.

Days passed in anguish and silence. Then, one night, Hyou returned. He was badly injured and could barely stand. Shin and I rushed to help him, but it was too late: we couldn't save him. With his last bit of strength, Hyou handed us a map and looked at us with eyes full of love and determination.“Take this... and... take care of yourselves... and our dreams,” he murmured before closing his eyes forever.

Shin and I followed the map to a secluded spot in the forest. We found a tent hidden among the trees. His heart pounding, Shin opened the door, and there stood Ei Sei, the king.

The shock was immediate: Ei Sei was identical to Hyou. Every gesture, every look, every movement reminded him of him. Shin stepped back, anger and confusion warring within him. I clung to his arm, tears streaming down my face, feeling like fate had played a trick on us.