Krist woke first, the sun now fully risen, casting dappled light through the trees. He looked up at Singto, still asleep beside him, his expression unguarded and peaceful in a way Krist rarely saw. He felt a pang in his chest, a fierce protectiveness over the man who had lately become his strength.

He knew the dangers they faced—Singto’s slipping control over his power, their delicate relationship, the scrutiny of those who didn’t believe Krist was worthy of being Luna. But lying there, with Singto’s arm around him, Krist felt invincible. They had faced the beast together and won. What was the trial compared to that?

He’d always known there would be challenges in being with Singto. But he also knew that love wasn’t about avoiding those challenges; it was about facing them head-on, together.
.....

When Singto awoke, the first thing he saw was Krist, still curled up against him, his breath warm and even. The memories of the dungeon flickered at the edges of his consciousness, but here, in the quiet of the woods, they seemed distant.

But he couldn’t forget. Couldn’t allow himself to forget. The curse was real, and last night had been a stark reminder of how close he could come to losing everything. He had always been taught that the curse was an insurmountable barrier, a test that few could survive.

And yet…Krist’s belief was unwavering. It was as if his beast didn’t faze him, as if he knew they would succeed where others had failed. Could it be as simple as that? As faith?

Singto sighed, pulling Krist a little closer. He didn’t want to think about the curse right now. All he wanted was to hold onto this moment, where the world felt safe and the future didn’t seem so terrifying.

---

As they reached castle, Singto straight up went to bed, Krist's bed. Surrounded in Kit's scent he slept peacefully while Krist went about his morning chores.

Bathed, dressed and now belly full— Krist returned to his bed, sitting beside Singto while scrolling through the fandom's page. Although he was banned from commenting, he could atleast read and enjoy the banter.

As if sensing Kit's presence, Singto curled an arm around Krist's abdomen, still sleeping on his stomach. Krist put his hand on Singto's arm to assure he wasn't going anywhere and got back to reading comments.

_The King Deserves Better_  

“Ah, how the mighty have fallen. Our Alpha King, once a symbol of dignity and grace, now reduced to wearing cheap T-shirts with tacky slogans? It’s tragic, really. But what can you expect when he’s being led by someone who barely knows the difference between a royal decree and a TikTok trend?”

_The King Got His Groove Back_  

“Sorry, can’t hear you over the sound of Singto looking hotter than ever in those tees! Let’s be real, y’all were tired of those stuffy robes anyway. Kit’s just helping your boy discover that he doesn’t need to dress like a grandpa to command respect. Maybe take notes?”

_Don’t Disrespect Tradition_  

“Oh please, if we wanted fashion advice from someone who thinks flannel is high fashion, we’d ask. But seriously, a love potion? The only spell here is how Kit managed to turn the King into a joke. Next, you’ll tell us Kit’s going to teach him how to do the Macarena at state dinners.”

_Kit Spices It Up_  

“Why not? At least people would stay awake! You’re just salty because Kit’s got Singto smiling more in a week than you’ve seen in years. Maybe the real issue here is that the King’s finally having some fun, and you all don’t know how to deal with it. Also, flannel is a vibe—don’t be jealous you can’t pull it off.”

_Keep the Crown Polished_  

“Fun? You call this fun? It’s more like a mid-life crisis, courtesy of your boy Kit. A King is supposed to inspire fear and respect, not get laughed at because his mate thinks ‘Hail to the King, Baby’ is an acceptable royal slogan. But hey, if you think swapping crowns for snapbacks is an upgrade, by all means, enjoy the circus.”

_A Royal Glow-Up_  

“Snapbacks? Brilliant idea! Might as well crown Singto as the King of Cool while you’re at it. Look, at least Kit’s keeping things fresh. Your beloved King was stuck in the past until Kit showed up with a wake-up call. If you ask us, Kit’s doing him—and this entire kingdom—a favor by bringing him into the 21st century. And just so you know, puns are an art form—educate yourself.”

_The Throne is Not a Playground_  

“Art form? That’s rich coming from the guy who probably thinks a sassy comment is the height of sophistication. Kit might be cute in a rebellious-teen sort of way, but running a kingdom isn’t a high school drama. When Singto realizes that, maybe he’ll find a mate who’s a bit more…appropriate for a throne and less for a reality TV show.”

_Kit Rewrites the Rules_  

“Newsflash: the King doesn’t need a mate who just sits pretty and says ‘yes, dear.’ Kit’s got the guts to challenge Singto, and that’s what makes him the perfect match. If you can’t handle the heat, stay out of the royal kitchen. And speaking of reality TV, didn’t your King just agree to Kit’s wardrobe choices? Must be he’s liking the new look—guess that’s what you call a royal seal of approval. Maybe it’s time you joined the modern era, too.”

_A Temporary Distraction_  

“Don’t flatter yourselves. Singto’s clearly going through a phase—one that’ll end when he remembers that a King’s wardrobe and behavior are meant to reflect his power and prestige, not his mate’s desire to relive their teenage rebellion. Once the love potion wears off (because let’s face it, that’s the only explanation), we’ll see who’s truly fit to stand by his side.”

_Kit’s Here to Stay_  

“Keep dreaming. Kit’s here to stay, whether you like it or not. And when Singto is laughing at your attempts to drag him back into that dusty old throne room, we’ll be right there cheering him on. The King deserves someone who makes him happy, not a trophy for the SFC’s royal display case. So keep your polished crowns and stiff robes—we’re busy making history.”

It was all a pretty standard fan dissing but one comment from a Singto fan caught his eye: “Even the name of Krist’s fan club is tacky—KFC? Street food! Not at all regal.”

Krist’s mouth fell open in indignation. “How dare they?” he muttered, pouting at his phone.

Singto, lying beside him with his eyes half-closed, mumbled, “What happened?”

“What is wrong with KFC? She is fighting dirty. I will show that bish! I’m sad I can’t even comment to fight my own war. Royal rules suck.”

Singto chuckled softly. “Comment all you desire, Kit. Fight your war.”

" I don't want your royal advisors on my ass..." Kit frowned. " Do you even know how hard it is to listen that polished lecture with straight face when all I wanted was to laugh out loud."

  Singto opemed his eyes for a moment and looked at his mate. " I am the King...what I say...goes "

" That's what you said while rejecting my modelling application."

" I couldn't let them see you in those enticing postures. You can model for me all you want. ."

Krist shoved him playfully " tyrant...are you sure I can reply .."

" 200% "

Krist’s eyes lit up, " Here I come baby.."  and without missing a beat, he began typing:

"You say KFC like it’s an insult, but last I checked, everyone loves a good meal. Unlike some, we don’t need to be ‘regal’ to be worthy—just tasty."

Krist read next comment

Krist's Attitude is a Disgrace to the Royal Family!"

Krist's sarcasm and constant jokes are an embarrassment to the royal family. A true mate should be dignified and respectful, not making puns and mocking tradition. How can he be fit to stand beside our King? #KristSucks #RoyalStandards

"Dignified and respectful? I'll have you know I'm very dignified when I need to be-like when I'm trying to keep a straight face during Singto's formal speeches. Trust me, it's harder than it looks! But hey, if you ever need lessons in sarcasm, I'm available. #RoyalPain #NotSorry"

Singto Needs a Strong Partner, Not a Comedian!"

Singto has faced countless battles and challenges, and what does Krist bring to the table? A few jokes and a smart mouth! Singto needs someone who can match his strength, not someone who treats everything like a joke.

#KristSucks #RealSupportNeeded

"Funny you mention strength-I happen to be the one who keeps Singto from going too serious all the time. It's called balance, people! And as for battles, I'd say surviving this fan war is just another day in the life. Besides, who says you can't be strong *and* have a sense of humor? #Multitasking"

Singto Fan Club Member:
"Krist is a joke! He can't handle the responsibility of being Singto's mate! #KristSucks"

Krist Fan Club Member:
"At least Krist knows how to have fun! Singto deserves someone who can make him smile! #KristRocks"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! First of all, I'm not just a joke-I'm a 'really good' joke! 😜 But seriously, Singto's smile is proof enough that I'm doing something right. And if making him laugh is my biggest crime, then I'm guilty as charged. So, let's all take a deep breath, share a laugh, and maybe, just maybe, chill the heck out. #SmileMore #WorryLess"

Kit started typing a post on his own official twitter account.

"Look, I get it-you love Singto, and you're just trying to protect him. But here's the thing: so am I. We may do it differently, but that's what makes us work. I make him laugh when he's too serious, and he keeps me grounded when I'm about to go off the rails. We balance each other out, and that's what being a mate is all about.

And as for all this 'Krist sucks' business-well, let's just say I know how to suck when it counts. 😏 Not that it's any of your darn business! Now, how about we all chill out and let us focus on what really matters: making each other happy. #TeamSingtoAndKrist #LoveWins"

As soon as he posted, pat came a commemt .

How can someone like Krist even be considered worthy of our beloved King Singto? His jokes are crass, his behavior is unbecoming of a royal mate, and he has zero respect for traditions! Krist doesn't belong anywhere near our Singto! We demand answers! #KristSucks #ProtectOurKing

Krist smirked typing

"I know right? You should totally take that up with the Moon Goddess! Maybe she can give you a suggestion box or something. As for me, I'm just as confused as you are-except, I actually get to be the one who kisses him goodnight. 🤷‍♂️"

Krist saw a notification not even one minute later...It was his arch nemesis. He knew she would spill venom.

"Singto Deserves Better!"

Krist has no idea what it means to be a royal mate! Singto has spent his life protecting our kingdom, and he deserves someone who understands the weight of his crown. Krist just jokes around like it's all a game. This is a disgrace! #KristSucks #WeLoveSingto

Kit furiously typed

"Singto deserves better? Trust me, I remind him of that every day! 😂 But since we're stuck with each other, I'll do my best to keep him entertained. I mean, it's not every day you find someone who can laugh at your bad jokes *and* fight off assassins before breakfast. #Blessed"

There were more to fight and digital field was his battle ground.

Singto Fan Club Member:
"Krist sucks! He has no class, no respect, and no clue! #KristSucks"

Krist Fan Club Member:
"You mean *you* suck for not recognizing how amazing he is! #KristRules"

"Wow, it's getting hot in here! Krist sucks, Singto sucks... but not as much as you think. 😉 Not that it's any of your darn business! Now, can we all just agree that the only thing that truly sucks is all this drama? #LoveNotHate #PunsAreMyThing"

---

Seeing his comment, his arch nemesis, President of Singto Fan Club instantly posted

Is Krist Even Taking This Seriously?"

Krist is literally making jokes while our beloved King's reputation is on the line! How can we trust him to protect and love Singto the way he deserves?
#KristSucks

"Oh, I'm taking it very seriously" Krist typed, laughing, a crazy glint in his eys "-seriously enough to laugh at how ridiculous this whole thing is! You guys need to chill. I'm not here to steal your King, I'm here to love him. Besides, if you really want to make Singto happy, stop stressing him out with your drama and let us live. 😘"
....

His responses was met with an outpouring of support from his fans, with even a few Singto supporters switching sides. But as always, some remained staunchly opposed.

Krist sighed, setting his phone down. “Some people just won’t give up, will they?”

Singto opened his eyes fully and looked at him, a small smile on his lips. “It doesn’t matter. You’ve won more than you’ve lost.”

Krist smiled back, feeling a little better, though the lingering tension from the previous night still hovered between them.

" Come , sleep now.  " Singto pulled him.

" Aren't you hungry? " Kit asked.

" Lie beside me, and I will be content. " Singto pulled Krist in his embrace and slipped to dream world.
---.......

After they woke up late in the afternoon, Singto had a heart meal while Krist sipped on his tea.

Krist turned serious, his thoughts drifting back to the dungeon. “About last night,” he began softly.

Singto tensed beside him, the weight of his guilt returning. “I’m sorry,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I should have never—”

“Don’t,” Krist interrupted gently, placing a hand on Singto’s chest. “Don’t apologize. I’m glad I was there. I’m glad I could help.”

“But you were in danger,” Singto protested. “I could have hurt you. Or worse…”

Krist shook his head. “You didn’t. And you won’t. Because we’ll face whatever comes together.”

Singto hesitated, then finally spoke the words that had been haunting him. “There’s something you need to know about my wolf. "

" It's more powerful than others thus harder to control ? "

" Yes, but its not just a bit more powerful. It is lot more powerful and it is only going to get stronger. "

" i noticed, silver doesnt affect you as it does a normal wolf. "

Singto nodded. " It does inhibit my regeneration but not by much. My strength only increases every day so does my resistance to silver. It is a curse, passed down to every first born alpha in our bloodline .”

Krist listened quietly as Singto explained the trials that every firstborn and their mate had to undergo. The slim chances of success, the possibility of failure leading to madness or worse. How his love could become Krist’s cage.

When Singto finished, the silence between them was heavy, charged with fear and uncertainty.

But then Krist spoke, his voice firm. “Why are you focusing on the ones who failed? There are many of your ancestors who passed the trials and lived long, happy lives with their mates.”

Singto looked at him, his eyes full of doubt. “The probability is slim, Kit. Five in a hundred.”

Krist’s gaze was steady, unwavering. “Even if it were zero in a hundred, I would take that trial. Because I know we can be that one couple that makes the impossible possible.”

Singto stared at him, taken aback by the absolute certainty in Krist’s voice.

Krist smiled, a small, determined smile. “I think it’s a test of faith and duty. If we have unshakable faith in each other, we’ll pass the trial with flying colors.”

Singto felt something shift inside him—a small, fragile hope that maybe, just maybe, Krist was right. Maybe they could be the ones to break the curse, to prove that love could conquer even the darkest of fates.

He reached out, pulling Krist into a tight embrace, holding him close as if afraid to let go. “Then we’ll face it together,” he whispered. “Whatever comes, we’ll face it together.”

Krist nodded against his chest, his arms wrapping around Singto in return. “Together.”

" When can be take the trial? "

"Solar eclipse " Singto answered.

" when is the nearest one ? " Krist asked.

" 15 days."

" We are taking trial on that day. "

.....