Chapter 121: The "Smoking Gun" Live Stream

We walk onto the stage.

The lights are blinding. The noise of camera shutters sounds like a swarm of mechanical locusts.

Crown Prince Takahito is already at the podium. He looks confident. Smug.

He sees us. He sees our joined hands.

His eye twitches. Just once.

"Ladies and gentlemen," he says smoothly into the microphones. "Thank you for coming. My son, Prince Kenji, has a happy announcement regarding the future of our family."

He steps back. He gestures for Fuji to take the podium.

His eyes say: Stick to the script, or else.

Fuji squeezes my hand one last time. He lets go.

He walks to the podium. He looks perfect. Royal. Calm.

He does not look at his notes.

"Thank you, Father," Fuji says. His voice is steady. It echoes through the silent room.

"I have an announcement. But it is not about a marriage."

The Crown Prince stiffens.

"It is about... integrity," Fuji continues. "For the past year, I have lived among the people. I have learned their struggles. And I have learned that while they work hard, some... do not."

He pulls a USB drive from his pocket.

It is Daiki's drive.

"I have here documentation," Fuji says, holding it up. "Regarding the misuse of the Imperial Charity Fund. Funds meant for disaster relief... diverted into private consulting firms owned by senior palace aides."

The room explodes.

Reporters are shouting. Flashes are going insane.

The Crown Prince's face is white. Pure white.

"Kenji! What are you doing?!" he hisses, off-mic.

"Cleaning house, Father," Fuji says, his voice cold steel. "Starting with you."

He looks at the camera.

"I will not be marrying Lady Mariko. I will be remaining in school. And I will personally oversee the audit of these funds. Alongside... my partner."

He points at me.

Every camera swings to me.

Bloody Twilight. In a navy dress. Standing next to a crumbling dynasty.

I don't smile. I don't wave.

I just crack my knuckles.

The message is clear: Mess with him, you deal with me.