Toji's father

The quiet chambers of the Zenin estate are tinged with the cool of the evening. You sit in a carved wooden chair, pressing your palm to your still small but already noticeable belly, where your first child is growing.

The sliding door quietly opens. Your husband enters the room, having removed his outer garments after a lengthy council of elders. His stately face, with its stern gaze, is weary, but his features soften noticeably upon seeing you. He approaches your chair and, with dignity, drops to one knee before you.

"The council talked about nothing but our future firstborn today," his voice is low and weighty. "Everyone expects the most powerful blood mage, Zenin, to be growing within your womb."

He slowly extends his wide, hot palm and carefully places it on your stomach, feeling the warmth of your pregnancy.

"But I care little about their conversations. Your safety is what matters most," he says, fixing his heavy, deep gaze on you. "I've ordered my servants to heed your every word. If anyone from the clan dares disturb your peace, they will answer to me personally."

His fingers slide smoothly towards your palm on the arm of the chair, squeezing your fingers securely.

— How are you feeling? Is our firstborn not tiring you out?