Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sometimes watching devastation can be much more painful than experiencing it yourself. In fact, it may even be worse for some, especially when they know they are powerless to do anything but stand and watch. To which he, was doing very that. Watching a man fall to his knees, going through several stages of grief all but in a mere few seconds. Akito stood on a silent battlefield painted with snow and scarlet. The wind felt still for that moment, white ice falling slowly from the sky. It stuck, clinging to Akito’s hair, a stark contrast to the auburn it adhered to.  

There was, at that second, not a beat of sound through the air.  

None; besides the ever-growing wails of a man who had just found out his only kin had been taken from him. Yes, watching this sadness pained Akito more than he wished to admit, however there was but nothing he could do – he quite literally despised the man he was watching. Any help that was left most certainly was not something he could offer. Actually, the only thing he could do to help was to leave. The man in tears’ name was Tsukasa, beside him a prince by the name of Toya, who was trying his best to comfort the poor knight. Akito particularly disliked Tsukasa, especially due to his close relationship to the prince - no matter how much he tries to get over it, petty jealousy clings onto him whenever he sees the two.  

However now was not the time to show any display of envy nor anger towards the other. He simply felt his presence was unnecessary and so he turned around and began to walk away. A few soft steps in the deep snow alerted the prince of his absence yet he did not look back and took himself towards the castle grounds. Afterall, he had no reason to be present anymore. 

Toya turned back to Tsukasa after watching Akito leave, trying his best at getting the other to stand up, but to no avail. 

“Tsukasa... It is starting to snow; I think its best we finally retreat home.” he whispered, as if speaking too loud would somehow break the man beside him. 

“I failed her, I thought... I thought that she could handle being so far south alone but-” Tsukasa's words broke off as another sob escaped him. He pressed a gloved hand to his eyes in attempt to stop the overflow of tears however it proved fruitless. 

“You did not! There is nothing you could have done, she told us she could handle being a part of that squadron, you cannot be in two places at once Kasa you cannot blame yourself for this.” after a few moments of the only sound being Tsukasa heavying breathing Toya added: 

“Please, don’t blame yourself Tsukasa.” the other looked up at Toya, his expression was just as pained. When their eyes met however the others composer broke, tears begging to fall from his eyes Aswell as he wrapped him arms around Tsukasa's neck. 

Tsukasa remained silent, whilst resting his head on the others boy's shoulder.  

“Someone did kill her though.” Tsukasa grip on Toya tightened abruptly as he spoke. “I'll find out who did Toya, I swear on my life I will find who is responsible for this.” The prince looked up to meet Tsukasa's gaze. His eyes held no light - they were dull and foreboding. Their usual bright spark nowhere to be seen. 

“Who relayed the information of her passing to you?” Tsukasa questioned between quiet sobs, he began pulling away from the hug and was now simply sat on the cold snow-covered floor, staring up at the boy next to him. Toya seemed to hesitate for a moment, before speaking. 

“Akito- he... he was the first to be told of her squadron being defeated-.” as if finding anyone to blame was the only solace Tsukasa had right then, his expression changed to one of anger. Sadness long gone- grief already replaced with a fire of resentment. 

“I see,” was all the blonde boy said in response. 

Unsure of what to add, the prince looked away for a moment. 

“The... The snow is starting to pick up, perhaps we should...” Toya's speech trailed off, feeling somewhat weary of the others response, so much so he was begging to feel a sense of fear just looking at the blonde. He then began to stand, extending a hand to Tsukasa whilst doing so. 

Tsukasa did not acknowledge the other.  

Tsukasa stood on his own, brushing down his sleet covered clothes. Taken aback by the other’s refusal of his extended hand, the prince simply stayed still and watched the other turn away from him. 

“I'd rather...stay outside for now... if I am free to be dismissed from your presence, your Highness.” Toya then seemed speechless for a moment. That was the very first time in years the older had spoken to him in such a way, he simply nodded as a response. 

“Thank you, I will be going now.” he turned to leave before adding, “You should go join your ginger lapdog in the celebrations of the North’s win. I shall see you in our next council meeting.”. With that Tsukasa took off, quickly padding into the mist and out of Toya's view.  

The prince, frowning deeply, stayed there for a beat longer, looking over the battlefield. The North truly was beautiful in its stillness. Even if the white grounds were spattered with scarlet. 

That was the beginning of the loss of Toya’s ever-so-loyal big brother - not that he knew it yet - but it would be some time before he got to see the blonde smile again. 

~~~~~~~          ~~~~~~~          ~~~~~~~        ~~~~~~~       ~~~~~~~~      ~~~~~~~~~~     ~~~~~~~~~~   ~~~ 

The hand of the king, Sir Tsukasa Tenma, had always been the most bubbly and kindest of heart in the entire kingdom of the North. He broke his back bringing joy and happiness to as many as he could. His bright, blonde hair that gradiated ginger at the tips matched his set of elegant burnt ochre eyes – highlighted by yellow bangs that fell across his face besides from the side. He would slick them back to keep his field of vison as open as possible, always vigilant. His natural looks played a part in the carefree and loving attitude that drew people towards him.  

It was said for the longest time that he could smile at someone and make a terrible day one worth living through. 

The blonde usually wore a silvery garb that was decorated with speckled gold along the sleeves complimenting his pleasant facial features.  Most of the time he also donned a pair of black half gloves which added to that ever-loving grace about him, then garnished with a lengthy cerulean cape that was strapped across his chest, adorned with a gold-plated rose. He usually wore a pauldron on his right shoulder, engraved with a floral pattern along its edges, which matched the design ran down the outside on his thighs.  

His work as hand of the king had always been so very important to him, or at least that’s how it seemed. No one ever had anything negative to say about him, he was one of those people you just couldn’t spot a flaw in; his overflowing self-confidence could be seen as almost narcissistic sometimes, and yet most people would see it as endearing. Tsukasa was of the highest rank a knight could achieve, to which no other knights of that time had managed to reach at all - this being a large factor in the hatred that the captain of royal guard had for Tsukasa. He really did prove well to his position though, there was not a knight in miles who could come close to his combat skills. Most people would describe him as the only perfection the North had. 

Tsukasa was also extremely close to the royal family, this due to his experience with the prince; his highness Prince Toya Aoyagi them both being childhood best friends. Toya would tell you Tsukasa was the reason he was still well and living. For the longest time Tsukasa was the only person Toya could trust and that was obvious in their relationship- Tsukasa used to say Toya was always his younger brother and they had just been swapped at birth: which a young Toya used to genuinely believe for years to come. No matter what though, Toya would always see Tsukasa as his big brother, when he was a lot younger Toya often accidently would call Tsukasa father, that just telling how much the boy looked up to the blonde. 

Unfortunately, after the tragic loss of his sister, Tsukasa was quite literally a different person. He would not engage in speech with anyone unless he has been instructed to and even when he had, the man would keep the conversation to a shorter degree and continue with his rounds. He never indulged in conversation with anyone outside of the king and at a very push he would converse with Prince Toya. He kept his conversing to a minimum and busied himself with knight work 24/7. 

He would refer to someone who used to call him father with only honorifics - and when Tsukasa did speak to the prince, the blonde’s side of the conversation was abrupt and cold. 

Toya would tell you he felt as if he lost both a sister and a brother the day Saki died. 

The captain of the royal guard, Akito Shinonome, absolutely hated Tsukasa, before and after the loss of his sister. He has always disliked the blonde since the moment he met him, and his new depressive façade only fuelled his hatred for the fair-haired man.  

Akito was the Northen kingdom’s captain of the royal guard; his position afforded to him by his not- quite-lover not quite best friend: Prince Toya. He was a reserved and easily irritated individual; his blazing ginger hair was not the only Firey thing about him. In fact, Akito never really shared familiarities with anyone other than his beloved prince, not even his own sister. 

 Akito's uniform was like Tsukasa in their colour schemes, his overcoat an expanse of white and blue.  As if making a mockery of his status, Akito's cape was quite visibly smaller, less extravagant and overall a less pleasant shade of azure.  The only garish elements afforded to him - an exquisite silver ear cuff. If you asked him, he would not disclose from whence it came – only reply with a small smile and say someone special. Akito also donned the same gold-encrusted rose as Tsukasa. His, however, was on placed upon his left shoulder. The auburn-haired man was originally not born from the North and had been thrown on a carriage, along with his older sister, with ‘somewhere up that way’ as its destination. He was found by Toya at an early age who had extended a hand in help.  

The two had been basically inseparable since then. If Akito was not doing his daily rounds of the castle grounds, it was more than likely he would be at his prince's side and vice versa. The two had never fought or fallen out through any means - the only misunderstanding they seem to have, is Akito's inability to see Toya and Tsukasa’s relationship being familial and in no way romantic. The boy's jealousy evolved into distain for Tsukasa – yet steadfast they remained. 

Sometimes Akito gets too deep within his own head about Toya, which causes him to almost forget where he is and what conversation he’s in the middle of.  

One may even say: he is down bad. 

“Oi! Earth to Akito? You’ve been staring into space for what, ten minutes now! Are you wanting me to relay the request or not?” someone with soft blonde-pink hair yelled at the absent-minded knight in front of them. The pinkette had their hands atop their hips with scowl of displeasure on their face. They were dressed in a more feminine rendition of Akito's uniform - indicating their position among the knights. They were of fair skin, pale eyes and usually wore a look of disinterest.  

Of course, Akito had managed to incite their wrath. Excellent. 

The captain seemed to have taken himself to the east of the grand castle of the North, just outside of the training grounds. He now stood at the carriage loading decks. Somehow. Rows of carriages lined across the harsh gravelled ground, dusted with the early winter snowfall. 

“Yes, about that - what request was that again? My mind was just so full of... captain of the royal guard business, that I could not make out what you said.” Akito calmly responded. The other frowned. It would seem Akito quite enjoyed gloating about his higher status with this person quite a lot. 

“Oh, har har ‘Sir Head Knight Akito’, you boast about your position - yet it was not like anyone else had a chance when you are a sentence away from being betrothed to the Prince,” the light-haired knight replied. Their look of displeasure turning to that of irritation. With tightly folded arms they then continued, “And- I am actually talented within my job sector and do not achieve high statues via bedding royalty.” 

“Whatever makes you sleep better at night Akiyama...anyways as you were saying...?” Akito motioned with his hand sarcastically, impatient from crown to fingertip. 

“You asked me to request one of the dressmakers to get started on the post war celebration uniforms, correct? If the ball is to be that grand, ‘we should have them sorted bright and early’ you had said, then your mind seemed to wander in a way of which I do not want to know.” the younger knight then let out a soft sigh. “You really need to sort out your little prince obsession Akito; it is getting to be borderline obsessive - especially when you lose track of your thoughts mid Conversation.” they said, exasperated. Their breath condensed like the smoke of the furnaces roaring deep below the belly of the castle. 

“Who?” asked the ginger. 

“What do you mean who I-” replied Akiyama 

“Asked?”  

“What-” 

“Who asked?”  Akito smiled sarcastically and folded his hands behind his back as he spoke, feigning politeness. 

“You-! You are so insufferable sometimes...” they then let out a very dramaticised sigh, underlining their point. “Why do I even bother listening to you? It is almost as bad as dealing with that depressed hand of the king” Mizuki quipped, groaning for the second time too many in this conversation. 

“I am greatly offended you believe it would be more negative conversing with me than with him...” Akito replied lowly. 

“I am afraid I cannot even try to care about the offense taken” responded the other. 

“I am afraid you should try to care, or I'll find a way to reduce your pay just to fuck with you.” 

A soft growl bubbled in Mizuki’s throat, to which Akito simply covered his mouth with his hand. 

‘Hehe.’ 

“If I may, can I be dismissed to go forward with your arduous, simply monumental task?” jeered Mizuki. 

“Please do, it is quite important were not behind of the celebrations.” Akito informed, all too happy to be nearing the end of this conversation. “Oh, by the way, I noticed you’ve really let your hair grow out...” 

The other seemed to visible stiffen at such a change in the conversation. 

“Er- I’m... sorry It was not my intention to startle you with that- it suits you more like that. I really like it.” complimented Akito.

At that the bashful knight’s face seemed to turn a slight shade of red. 

“Haha... th-thank you, I am planning on leaving it this length...uhm your words definitely make me want to keep it so, then!” A finger twirled around their hair. However, being flattered and being embarrassed was not something Akiyama enjoyed feeling. They quickly changed the topic once again. “Oh, one last thing Akito... Do you really think these celebrations are necessary? I mean we lost so many of our own in that war, it almost feels like our win...” the air stagnated between them with the pause, “was undeserved.” 

“I do not think I have much of an opinion on it to be honest. Everything is on the king’s orders. I am quite sure a certain blonde is not thrilled about celebrating the thing that killed off his sister.” Akito replied. Mizuki avoided eye contact. 

“Uhm also, did you ever ask about having my position changed? About me resigning as a knight to join the dress making team?” pondered Mizuki. The ginger smiled knowingly at the question. 

“I did, perhaps if you assist Ena in the design... well, that could really help your claim.” this brightened up the others expression as she looked up to the captain. 

“Yes! Can do! You can count of me for it! Ill finish loading this carriage and head right for her, do you want me to say hello from you to her when I see her?” the light pinkette asked, words suddenly blurring together. 

“Alright - go for it, whatever, enjoy your time with her anyways.” Akito had begun to turn, preparing to continue his rounds before Mizuki stopped him. 

“Thank you, Akito, really... uhm I am also very glad you like my hair like this... it is a nice change of pace!” The soon-to-be-dressmaker stated, their smile as luminous as the midwinter sun. 

‘No problem,” came the nonchalant reply. 

They stood watching him for a moment; flush still visible on their face. They then let out a huge sigh, pressure on their chest relieved. “You cannot just say things like that, sheesh... if he’s like that with me, I really do wonder what kind of stupidly romantic stuff he comes out with to that prince of his...” 

The redhead inwardly groaned, wondering what his sister will think of a simple ‘saying hi’ through Akiyama. He’d not spoken to her directly for months. 

What kind of lousy little brother acts like that...?  

Every now and then he envied how close Tsukasa was with his sister; actually, it seemed Akito just envied most things about Tsukasa. Perhaps the roots of his hatred for the man were dripping in envy, yet he tried to banish those thoughts for that moment. It would do him no good moping about when a full day was ahead of him.  

Ah, so I must discuss with the Cavalry captain her opinions on how to go about transporting those visiting the festivities from the southern realm and then...  

The boy massaged the bridge of his nose after rereading though his scroll of duties.  

I must report to him... great.  

The news of needing to converse with the hand of the king shouldn’t really be much of a shock, yet Akito still inwardly cringed at the anticipation. The boy ran hand through his russet hair and committed to his journey towards the stables.  

The walk wasn’t long - as the horses' loggings were not far from the carriage loading point. The stables weren't large nor anything spectacular- you could fit perhaps a dozen horses; the ground being blanketed in straw and hay. The miasma made the area one of Akito's least favourite places to visit. Nevertheless, he ventured inside in look for Shiho Hinomori, the Cavalry captain. 

Not even a few steps in, Akito noticed a familiar mop of mussed grey hair, the owner too deeply ingrained in their labour to register his presence, unwanted as it was. 

Apon hearing his footsteps, the shorter girl bobbed her head above the door before jumping slightly noticing who had walked in. 

“Ah hold on just a moment sir!” she exclaimed before what sounded like a quick scraping of feet tripping on a layer of hay, which was then followed by a soft toppling noise and just quietest “oof!” before the room fell into almost silence. 

“Hinomori are you doing well down there?” Akito questioned slightly amused. A few beats of shuffling around were heard before the door was opened at such speed, an unsuspecting captain of the guard was caught ‘off guard' and hit quite painfully in the face by a slab of wood. Perhaps he shouldn’t have stood so close to the stable wing door, yet Akito was sure that the hit was not a fault of his own and completely on the unbridled strength of his Calvery captain. 

“Sir?” the grey-haired girl looked side to side before turning her vision downwards to her superior laying pathetically on the ground.  

“Oh, sir I wouldn’t choose the stable floor as a suitable napping spot. It’s filthy in here to be honest” she spoke. The girl was also speaking much truth, it had been quite the few years before the stable had seen a proper cleanse, the only person trying to keep the area clean was her and at a push two others.  

“Yes, because It was my plan to take a nap here and I was not just smacked to the ground by the sheer force of you opening a stable door.” Akito grunted, slowly getting back to his feet. 

The girl stood perplexed and uncaring for a time, until her face seemed to show an expression of understanding. 

“Oh! My goodness I am so sorry sir I thought I felt a slight resistance when I opened the door. Uhm how can I be of service to you?” inquired the girl.  

She wore a very similar uniform to that of Akiyama - yet her boots were thicker at the soles, so that she might flee at a moment’s notice. The costly brocade was tattered and stained by mud. She had piercing green eyes, and shoulder length grey hair. 

Once stood up Akito he brushed the hay and dust off himself, coughing slightly as he did. 

“I am just on my rounds, ensuring all for the upcoming festivities is in order. I was asked to seek your opinion on how others who traverse from places other than the close north will arrive?” 

The green-eyed girl before him put a hand over her mouth and seemed to be deep in thought for a moment. 

“Well, my horses haven't any major upcoming destinations, most supplies to be carted have already been done so or do not require more than two horses. Are you requesting some of mine to be used for transporting visitors?” she implored. 

“That would be my plan, I would not think that many will be needed I just needed to seek your input.” 

“Well, that would be perfectly fine, when you know how many from far the king wants to attend, just let me know, captain.” she added, smiling. Of the few people Akito worked relatively closely to, Shiho was one who actually treated him like her superior, which he appreciated. 

“Will do Hinomori, you may carry on with your duties now.” Akito then dismissed her as he forced himself onward with his more...authoritative duties.  

He was really, really, not looking forward to it. 

After a few more discussions, with knights on his way, Akito found Tsukasa looking over some papers in the main entrance hall to the castle, just beside the central table for the kingdom’s council meetings. He, as always, looked very unapproachable, icy glare rivalling the tundra surrounding them.  

Akito stood before the small desk Tsukasa towered over, a solid minute passing without the other even noticing him. Either that, or Tsukasa deliberately refused to register his presence. 

Akito rolled his eyes and coughed loudly. 

Once their eyes met, the blonde’s already dismal expression somehow managed to sour even more. 

“Coughing, are we? Have you finally caught a deadly disease that is to kill you in a mere few days?” advanced Tsukasa, voice seething with a sarcastic hope. 

“Sometimes I wish that would be the case so I would never have to speak with the likes of you again.”  parried the ginger. 

“If you want me to kill you, you can just ask, Shinonome.” Tsukasa offered. 

“And leave my prince all alone? You know I cannot do that.”  

“I am sure he would manage just fine.” 

“Ah yes; because you know all about Toya after three years of silence, could have had two kids during this time and you still wouldn’t know.” Akito was a couple of inches taller than Tsukasa and he abused that height difference to the ends of the earth. 

At that Tsukasa's frown depended, if that was even possible, leaving fissures in his once-flawless complexion. 

“What do you want, Shinonome?” insisted Tsukasa. His temper was running hot, flaring in sporadic bursts that burned the world around him in a blaze of loathing. 

“To return to the bedside of my loving prince and keep him from ever mentioning your name again” Akito truthfully responded. His eyes narrowed. He had affected the older knight. Wonderful. 

Tsukasa looked Akito dead in the eye. “He can do... so. Much. Better. Than. You. ”. Each syllable was a study in malice, each letter from his tongue a barb intended to slice the other to his soul. It was a game of chess neither would win – the mutual checkmate only wearing the other down over the course of months. Too many months, too much misery. Akito often noted this would make for a great stage play, in those lonely moments where he wondered who he was really performing for.  

He was drawn from his thoughts by the healthy reminder that right now, he lived for two things: Toya, and bullying the hell out of the depressed former brother to the highest female rank in the North’s army. Because that was productive. 

Akito smirked “I really do not think you have any input at all on his wishes these days, do you?” 

“Do you actually have a reason to be here right now or are you genuinely asking for a fight?” wondered the blonde. His smirk was pure fallacy – and if Saki were to have seen him, perhaps she might not have recognised him. No one really did, nowadays. He was the painted ghost living in the shell that was Tsukasa Tenma, and that did not stop Akito from his tirade of misery he fully intended to rain down on him. If Tsukasa had any room for an emotion other than hatred, he might have been impressed with the other’s resolution. 

“Unfortunately, my duties have led me to you, I was to advise you on the current situation around the upcoming festivities and how the castle’s staff plan on handling it.”  claimed Akito, as he crossed his arms. Tsukasa looked back to him, disinterested. Finally, something other than that false smile that irritated the ginger so badly. 

“Right and they said?” asked the shorter of the two.  

“Well, the dress wear is to be taken care of shortly, to apprehend any delays. Transportation should be of no issue has the Calvary captain is happy to offer up her horses.” Akito continues for a while going over the few other people he had questioned over the morning. 

“I see, so mostly everything is to go swimmingly? How nice.” Tsukasa replied turning his attention back to the work below him. Akito scowled at him. He was really hoping for another round of verbal repartee.  

“Not fancying the idea of celebrating the wars efforts, huh?” Akito knew had stuck a nerve, seeing how the blonde tensed. The grip on the quill Tsukasa had in his hand looked as if it was about to snap. 

“If you have nothing more to report, fuck off, will you?” Tsukasa jeered, not even looking up as he spoke. At the curse, Akito bristled. It was uncomfortable, this kind of bout. Hell if he was caving just because the other decided to put on his big boy pants today. 

“You have quite the feist in you this morning sir - what about a spar later today? I would love to shove my sword right up your-” before Akito could finish a servant of the royal family made her presence known. 

“Sorry for the interruption captain but uhm, myself and a few others have tried to wake the Prince, but it is to no avail, if you aren't busy-” 

“Nope! Hes not busy, has was just about to leave.” Tsukasa finished for him. Smiling widely at the servant, so wide in fact it was much more unsettling than if he was to downright scowl at her. 

“Ah right thank you sir Tenma, can I leave this with you captain?” the girl requested turning to Akito. 

“Of course, I'll make my way to his chambers now.” Akito replied smiling.  His tone was far too eager, suspiciously so, but if the courtier noticed, she made no comment. The servant walked off in the opposite direction as the ginger began moving himself, offering a very tedious wave goodbye to Tsukasa who just huffed and looked back down to his work. The auburn-haired boy turned away from him, he really struggled to tone down his excitement to see his prince, even though it had been a morning's worth of separation between them, it felt like an eternity to him.  

God , he thought to himself, I’m like one of the yard hounds when they’ve been left alone a moment too long. Get it together, Shinonome.   

Pleased to have finished his forced conversation with Tsukasa, Akito sped up his pace on pursuit of the prince's chambers. The ginger wasn’t the friendliest of people however not many could really understand why he had such a distain for the hand of the king. In his words he’d say “He’s just one of those people I'll never get along with,” however, if that was just the case, the ginger would probably make fun of the blonde here and there, which was not what he did at all. No, there was no way Akito just thought he wouldn’t get along with him, Akito downright despised Tsukasa and that was due to his horrendous case of jealousy. Especially after Tsukasa sisters' death in which the hand of the king had truly fallen into a spiral of grief. Akito particularly disliked just how Tsukasa’s changed demeanour didn’t alter Toya's view of him in the slightest. He really didn’t think Tsukasa was worthy of being so valued by the prince anymore, which seemed to have brewed and boiled over to pure hatred for the blonde. Which caused Tsukasa to also in turn begin to dislike the ginger just as well back.  Which was deserved, in all fairness. 

Not that Akito ever cared for fairness. 

One could say Akito was a little bit too enamoured with his highness - however Akito's relationship with him was in no way one-sided, Toya was very obviously just as obsessed with his captain of the guard as the other is with his prince. If Toya can find a loophole in having Akito present in royal business, he will ensure Akito accompanies him. So much so he stopped asking for permission for the ginger to attend anything, and just brings him along anyways. Like a yard hound .  

It didn’t take long for Akito to find himself Infront of the prince's chambers, the doors off-white dotted with golden specks. Elaborate loops of florid imagery – some angelic text here, some religious verse there, all theism he had no care for. All things lost to time, a manuscript there was no translation for. Knowing he never needed to knock, Akito pushed them open slowly to a poorly lit room, with the windows still covered by the silken curtains. The prince's room was quite grand, and in all honesty, overly spacious, the main subject matter however being the large bed in the centre of the room. It had only the smallest amount of bright blue hair peeking from beneath the covers. Akito had to stifle a small laugh; he really did struggle to get out of bed didn’t he?  

The boy closed the door behind him and walked towards the edge of the bed, sitting down then slowly running his fingers through the cobalt locks that laid across the pillow. The resolute owner stirred, as if actively refusing to wake. 

“Once again, you have slept much past dawn, Toya,” Akito whispered into the silent room. The air stifled his mellifluous tone, blanketing it as it did the slumbering blueblood. 

The sound of the boy’s voice was much enough of an alarm to the prince who quickly pulled the covered from his face, eyes still half closed. 

“Akito...” the Prince whispered softly, rubbing his eyes. “I will not believe your words....” he spoke still very much half asleep, “I fully wish to believe dawn is yet to break, why do you not join me?”  the bluenette questioned. Akito simply let out a quiet giggle. 

“Would you like me to open the curtains and unveil the truth behind my word?”  Akito replied. 

“Hmmm, is the idea of joining me so uninviting to you Akito?” jested Toya. 

“Thats... you know that is not why I am refusing you” at that Toya laughed very breathily, and what a beautiful sound it was 

“You know I am teasing” Toya then slowly pushed himself up into a sitting position looking directly at Akito. 

“You are always so much warmer than I is all, I just miss having my own personal heater when I sleep... Woe is me, how tragic my life has become.” the bluenette placed his palm against his forehead, feigned hurt. 

“Har har indeed it seems, sleeping in such a large bed, in a very large room, larger than most – in the top floor of a very massive castle with no personal heater, I do not know how you do it, sounds very difficult.” Akito responded. 

“Yes, yes indeed” replied the bluenette, who then, to continue his point of temperature difference; picked up Akito's hand, slowly took off his glove and held it tenderly. He then placed it against his cheek and sighed looking up and meeting the gingers gaze. 

“see? Your hand is sooooo.... much warmer than my own hand and my face put together... I feel like I may just melt right now...” commented the Prince. Akito had to fight every bone in his body that was screaming at him to just propose there and then. An obvious blush matching his hair very present atop his face. Toya grinned. Fuck that grin. 

Toya continued,  “However, I am overjoyed you were sent to awaken me once more, I may have overdone it just a tad to get to see you again... how are you this morning?” the prince questioned. 

Prince Toya Aoyagi of the Northan Kingdom known as Winfell had quite the upbringing. Without Tsukasa he fears he would have been as drained and emotionless as his two older brothers, whom he since lost in the recent war. His father, the king, was a ruthless and cruel ruler along with being a terrible father. He tried to force his word on Toya and did not allow the boy much free will for the longest time. With a withering spirit Toya met Tsukasa, who had saved him from an attempt at his life from a southern spy when he was just seven years old, Tsukasa being thirteen at the time. Tsukasa had quickly been given the role as hand of the king shortly after.  

However, Toya’s life really began when he met Akito in his early teenage years. Akito did not care for the word of the king and would often act against him, and still does - if he proves to order something uncomfortable or troubling to Toya. The king had attempted to have Akito killed multiple times, but to no avail, the boy was just too attached to the prince by that time and that nothing could separate them. Well at least that’s what Toya would like to think. Toya relies so heavily on Akito that he probably couldn’t get out of bed most mornings if Akito was not called to wake him, it's almost unhealthy just how much these two would struggle to function without one another. As observed in the current scene playing out in the Prince’s bedchamber. Only almost though, they still sit on the title of their relationship being endearing and its painfully obvious to everyone around them that they're in love, however disappointing for some. Just  as well as the two have both grown to have a large handful of admirers; and what an unfortunate attraction that would be, as it's not like the two of them look anyone other than one another.  

Toya had a couple more centimetres of height on Akito that the ginger will forever blame on the fact he is one year older than him, and to his grave you will hear Akito say his last growth spurt is on its way, and that Hes sure he’ll be many inches taller than Toya, however no one will ever hold him to that.   

The prince had a very unnatural blend to his hair, two shades of blue split down two sides of his head, one being a dark navy and the other a soft baby blue. Hes in fact one of the very few in the two kingdoms that have such strongly outlandish hair colours. Its Only known for such unnatural hair colours to belong to dark mages and those experimented on to allow the use of dark magic. The northern royal family do not have dark mage blood within their heritage, and Toya's father had no ideas nor any memory of Toya living through such experimentations however one does not really believe much that comes from that man's mouth - it was also just too much of a coincidence that neither of the princes' older brothers had such pigmentation in their locks. Its also quite a known fable that having more than one unnatural tone in one's tresses greatly improved the users magic capabilities, which has only ever been seen on someone who had been experimented on. In fact, besides from Toya, there was only one known person in the entire known realm that had two different hues of unusual hair colour, and that was the hand of the queen in the southern kingdom; an extremely powerful dark magic user with bright purple locks tinged with two streaks of turquoise within his bangs. The prince was very gifted in his use of magic however had no need to utilize his abilities since his father never allowed him into battle, even when he could quite literally change a losing battle to a winning battle in mere seconds. There was not much public knowledge of magic nor if it had any negative connotations on the user, however many people have their own rights to believe what rumours they chose, and the royal family of the north had always seen it as unnatural and should never be used. 

The Prince also had a small beauty spot just below his left eye.

Akito, along with many people in the kingdom, thought Toya was one of the most beautiful princes the north had seen for quite some time. A lot of the time, Akito really struggled to not get caught staring at his prince as he was doing, right at that moment. Nearly cost him an arm and a leg – quite literally, when an enemy had taken a swing at him, and he had been too distracted by his liege. Toya did not allow him to forget that for quite some time.  

“Akito you are staring again, is my bed hair that bad?” Toya asked then trying to look directly at the bangs covering his eyes and messing around with the strands that stuck up in all different directions. He did not turn his head to meet the other’s eyeline, instead choosing to gaze at him through full, off-colour lashes. 

The ginger smiled softly. What a pleasing sight for the mid-morning rounds. 

“Not at all, I was just admiring your beauty as I always do.” marvelled the Captain. 

Somewhat startled by the honesty in Akito's response, a small flush made its way across the prince's pale skin as he turned his head, pouting slightly. 

“You cannot just say things like that Akito... people have their views of us already. You simply fuel the rumours...” Toya spoke still running fingers through his tousled blue hair. 

Akito propped his pointer finger below Toya’s chin, slowly turning the boys head back to meet his line of vison. which in turn had Toya’s pale face forming even more of a dark blush. 

“You know most of all that I care not for what anyone else thinks of me, nor my relationship to you.” clarified Akito.  

After a mere few seconds of their proximity being so close that Toya could feel each of Akito's exhalations on his face, he was unable to handle the close eye contact any longer; Toya closed his eyes and pushed his palms directly on Akito's face, pushing him back as far as his arms would extend.  

“You-!!!! Yes! I know that! No need to remind me in such ways, if you do so again, I fear my heart may actually burst.” Toya then removed his hands from Akito's face and stood, brushing off invisible dust from his clothing. He sighed before stepping towards his wardrobe. 

“Hehe, you get embarrassed very easily Toya, do forgive me I only wish to make sure you are truly woken up.” commented Akito. 

“Yes well, you have indeed managed such.” Toya huffed. Looking through his many articles of clothing, before turning back to Akito for a moment. 

“Uhm, it appears I may have forgotten what my tasks are for today, can you fill me in, I assume you have an idea?” asked the bluenette. His tone was awfully suspicious. 

The ginger nodded flopping backwards onto the others bed laying flat, speaking once he’d gotten reasonably comfortable. “Yeah, you have that big meeting with your father and the council about the preparations for the post war celebration today, how you forget that I will never know.” 

Toya visibly tensed, eyes widening slightly. 

“That's today?!” he placed a hand over his face and sighed loudly. “By the Gods, I really had completely forgotten, I actually slept soundly too, had I remembered you probably would have me at your chambers in the early hours of the morning.” 

Akito frowned. “Toya, when was the last time you spoke to your old man?”  

“Gods, I have no idea, I actively avoid him at all costs so, probably a great length of time has passed since I even had a conversation with him, do not even get me started on the last time I spoke to Tsukasa.” 

The auburn-haired boy made an unpleased face at the mention of the blonde. 

“He will be there too huh?”  

“Of course he will.” Toya took a few moments musing in the silent room. He looked back at Akito and spoke again, “He’s yet to even look me in the eye since his sister’s passing you know...? I wish he would just speak to me, honestly.” groaned Toya. 

Akito so desperately wanted to reply with ‘I wish he wouldn’t’ but realised such abrasive language never got him anywhere with the Prince. “Well people like him are just like that, you will not get anything out of him now until he has gotten that stupid revenge plan all done, and yet I doubt after He has done that, he would change.”.  

Toya seemed saddened by the comment.  

“Come on Akito, he lost his sister can you not express just the slightest amount of pity for him?” 

At that comment Akito felt the need to sit up from his laying position on the bed. 

“I will never pity him for that...” Akito contemplated for a moment “maybe for feeling sorry for himself for 3 years though, I hate how he seems to have taken his grief out on everyone else, especially to you who is probably the only person that holds him in high regards these days.” 

“He really is not all that bad come on, Hes just going through a lot...” commented the taller. 

“That idiot has been going through a lot for the past 3 years! You would think a strong-willed person, to which he must be – as the King’s right hand no less - would have accepted her death by now. it's just pathetic if you ask me.” argued Akito. 

“You know how close he was to Saki, Akito, do not act like you know how you would feel if you lost a loved one as close to you as Saki was to Tsukasa, please just give him a break.” Toya pleaded. 

“I just cannot understand why you bother caring anymore it's obvious the Tsukasa you loved so much is dead just like his sister.” 

“For god's sake Akito I will not have this conversation with you again, you are too hard on him. I am not going to let what He has been going through now negatively affect how I view all the things he has done for me.” Toya sighed once again and turned away from Akito and fetching the most regal, princely outfit he owned. Letting Akito sulk for a moment as he got changed. 

“I really do not understand why you hate him so much Akito, there's a lot of fighting techniques you could really use to learn from him, would it not be more positive for you to see him as the superior that he is to you?”  Toya offered, which quite obviously was not what Akito wanted to hear. 

“Right because He is so much better than me, just because he’s my senior does not mean you have to keep comparing him to me.” grunted Akito. 

Toya stopped what he was doing for a moment and moved back toward the other. 

“Akito, you know that’s not what I am saying - I do not compare you to him I just think from the age gain he has you, seven years more of experience is a long time, I just think he would have been a good mentor for you that’s all.” 

Akito wasn’t looking at Toya, and kept his vison attached to his feet. 

“I do not need any help from him, if I am going to improve in my combat skills, I will do so myself. I wish you would stop attempting I befriend him. The happy world in which all your favourites are best friends does not exist, Toya.” Akito despised the words as they tumbled from his mouth, knowing that this conversation bore nothing but the rotten fruit of distaste, growing sour between them. Akito still found a way to blame that on Tsukasa, though. 

“Please do not be angry, Akito - you know I do not say what I do to upset you...”  mumbled Toya, sadness adhering to his voice.  

Akito looked up already feeling bad for snapping at the other slightly, however his apology was cut short. 

“... put a shirt on, will you Toya?” 

“Not until I know I have not upset you.” Toya stepped closer to Akito mid speech. 

Toya was quite the interesting fellow indeed, as he stood holding his shirt hostage and threatening not to put one on just to ensure he had not upset Akito, the ginger could've made some funny quip or tactical joke about the situation, but sadly he was too busy staring that he couldn’t even muster up a sentence past an undignified squawk. Yes, he was quite the gentleman was Akito, frightened of a shirtless man.  

“Give me an answer or the pants go too.” yes, Toya knew quite well how to get Akito to do something for him, the ginger says he thinks it's easy to embarrass the prince, however the bluenette knew it was just as easy to get under Akito's skin as well. They completed each other in that disgustingly loving and saccharine way. 

“Alright, alright!! I am not angry I promise you; I am sorry for getting grumpy I know you mean no harm by what you said.” Even a child could have seen past the thin veil of utter bullshit.  

At that Toya smiled brightly, in which made Akito realise he would back from any argument they may have just to see Toya’s smile after, well he thinks so at least. 

“I really am glad to hear it” with that Toya walked back over to his clothing and dressed himself properly. The shining white armour Toya wore against the world was a shimmering silk, lapel adorned with gold leaf and other such unpleasant pleasantries his father insisted on, outshone only by the outlandish emblem he was forced to wear upon his left side, golden rose dropping with pearls and whatever other stones the dressmakers got their hands on. Toya figured Ena had gone a bit overboard with the sparkling gems, but didn’t care enough to spare them another thought besides how obnoxiously heavy it made his formal attire. 

Toya then walked over to his desk, which sat beside a large mirror. He looked at himself for a moment, playing around with the stands of hair that sat over his pearl grey eyes. 

“Should I part my hair again, or just leave it like this? I am not confident I can really be bothered to do anything fancy for it, wearing a crown is difficult enough... it would probably just mess up my hair anyways.” 

“Well, you basically just decided for yourself before I could even answer, leave it as it is it would seem.” Akito said. 

“Can you come? To the meeting... I do not want to face them all alone.” Toya asked. 

“I mean I can attempt to, but you know what your father is like, he may try have me executed again.” the humour was dry, and there was no laugh behind it. 

“You would think he would have given up past the last fifteen attempts he has done now...” 

“You would have thought a logical person would have stopped at 3 times.” 

“Hah! Yes, most definitely, I think by now he knows I would kill him where he stands if he executed you. Most certainly not worth the stress. Though he will give you a mouthful of stupid orders again probably, think you can get through that?” 

“Heh yes I think so, anything to help you feel more comfortable during the meeting Toya.” 

At that Toya grinned widely and wrapped his arms around the others neck 

“Ahhh I can always count on youuu~ my brave and Brilliant captain of the guard” praised the prince. 

Akito's face then turned a concerning shade of red – darker than any blush mentioned before this point – yet that did not stop him from putting his hands on Toya's waist. 

“Y-yes” internally Akito cursed himself out for stuttering . “Yes, indeed I think it’s a given how much I would do for you at this point Toya” the prince’s face morphed to one of pure adoration as he pulled back slightly looking the other in the eye. 

“Just as I am the same for you, I am quite confident you also knew that.” the bluenette then placed a hand on the others cheek, Akito noting just how cold Toya’s hands were.  

Toya then moved forward and pressed a small kiss upon the ginger’s forehead.  

Yes, Toya the ‘gets flustered and startled by Akito being a tiny bit close to him, yet he can kiss the other on the forehead himself with no issue’ he was quite a contradicting person sometimes. And so, this had quite a toll on poor Akito's little heart. 

The blue haired boy then pulled away, stretching his hands above his head as he walked towards the door. 

“Ah, I am just assuming that I should head to the council room now, is it due time for the meeting? I just need to visit the washroom then I will be ready for the day.”  

Toya spoke for a bit longer about breakfast - or something, the ginger had lost all sense of stability and really didn’t know just what toya was on about- which is strange considering it really wasn't the first time Toya has done something like that to him- the two had shared kisses before. 

Yard hound wouldn't even begin to explain the boy's feelings at this point. I’m unbelievably pathetic, He thought.  

Akito still stood frozen, the aforementioned dark flush on his face somehow even darker – he might be seconds away from death, who knows. 

Yes, it was Toya who had just before said that Akito was the one fuelling rumours about the two being lovers, as he hadn't just hugged and kissed him like a lover.  

Akito's battle with cupid seemed to always have him losing.   

“Akito? Akito why are you still sat there come on, I'm leaving now.” Toya somewhat snapped Akito from his daze, acting like he hadn't done anything to permit Akito in such a state moments before, and was two steps out the door. He almost left Akito to bask in the glory of being so close to the prince momentarily. He knew what he was doing.  

“Y-yes forgive me my mind, was uhm... yes, I'm coming what did you say?” Akito then walked up to the other and follower beside him toward the washroom, visibly missing the obvious grin planted on Toya’s face.  

Yes, he definitely knew what he was doing. 

Once finished with his morning duties, the prince returned to his chambers after briefly forgetting where he last placed his crown, to which for no reason at all reminded Akito he was yet to be truly finished with his duties; there was a concerning amount of paper work in need of his signature that had been supplied to him weeks before from Mizuki - which he realised it would only grow if he didn’t sort it at that moment. Toya was visibly upset by the thought of facing his father alone, however the feeling was short lived as Akito assured him that he’d be able to at least attend even if was near the end of the meeting, which somewhat put the bluenette at ease. So the two bid one another goodbye as Toya continued to rummage around his room for his crown. Logically, how can he actually lose a crown when he only worn it the same number of times as there are fingers on his right hand was beyond him. 

The prince then stood, hands upon his hips, staring at his chambers as if he was trying to guilt trip the room itself to explain where it had hidden his crown. Yes he didn’t lose it, that was the point he was trying to portray to none but himself. 

During his staring contest with nothing, Toya heard a light knock at his door. Assuming it was Akito, as he always does, he spoke before turning around. 

“To say you had WEEKS worth of paperwork you got that done quite quickly you kno-” yet the boy then suddenly held his tongue as he turned to see it was not Akito at his door but his ever so dreary hand of the king. 

Tsukasa held a hand over his mouth, coughing slightly, before looking anywhere but Toya’s line of vision. 

“Forgive me your highness, I had thought that knight had not completed his very difficult task of waking you as you are yet to be present in the council hall.” commented the blonde bleakly. Toya wondered if Tsukasa knew he was actually alive and therefore had some emotion.  

“Yes, I, uhm... wait am I late? Ive – ive well I lost my-” struggling to get his point across Tsukasa simply cut him off by raising a hand. 

“Not to worry, you're not late - I simply wanted to come find you, to make sure you are not tardy. I do not trust that carefree buffoon to complete any of his tasks, especially when it is concerning you.” Tsukasa hissed, sounding more like he was talking to himself than to the other across from him. His superior, no less.  

Toya frowned deeply, not being able to come up with much of a response to the accusations against his Akito. 

Tsukasa then regained himself slightly, speaking again as if he had spoken nothing of his bitter rival.  

“Well anyways, am I alright to escort you downstairs- as I know you will not wish to present yourself late.”   

Toya cringed at the thought of explaining to Tsukasa of all people why he was even still in his chambers in the first place. 

“i uh, lost my crown haha...” Toya whispered, fully expecting a lecture from Tsukasa, however that did not come. That kind of response was warranted to the grief-stricken blonde, this was a different person; Toya had to remind himself. It was hard, sometimes – separating truth, from fiction, from fractured fragments of what he wished had come to be.  

“Worry not I do not think the king will even bat an eye at your lack of crown.’ He coughed impatiently. “Now if you don’t mind your Highness - we should be getting downstairs.” Tsukasa then opened the door for the prince bowing his head as he did. 

He never, ever, used to call the bluenette by anything but his name.   

“ Will you not call me Toya like you used to, Kasa..?” chanced the prince. Only to be met with silence. Tsukasa didn’t even move a muscle to respond. As he was just ignoring him. 

The taller sighed with volume then swiftly walked past the blonde, who fell into step behind him. 

“I am you inferior, and shall always be your highness, you should expect me to keep to such honorifics, just as I expect you to call me by my family name.” Tsukasa then spoke behind him, looking up. Toya turned to meet his gaze, almost offended by his comment. 

Not much of a family.   

“Then how about this? As your superior I command you to call me by my first name..?” Yeah, because that would get through to him. Great freaking job, Toya.   

Tsukasa visibly stiffened, obviously caught off by the response. He grumbled and looked down in defeat.  

“if that is what your highness wishes... I will address you as such.” 

Toya smiled and clasped his hands together. 

“Great! I should expect you to remember this conversation, yes?” Tsukasa almost glared at the bluenette for such a... casual response. 

He definitely blames Akito for being an influence on Toya’s cockier attitude these days.  

“Y es, I will not forget.” was all Tsukasa responded with. 

As the two walked in silence through the palace, down the winding stairs from Toya’s chambers, it was so awkwardly quiet if you compared how they used to act around one another.  

This time five years ago, Tsukasa would probably be bragging about of his most recent jousting wins or just singing something obnoxiously loud, to which Toya would always be so entranced by. The bluenette missed his old experiences with Tsukasa, so much it could easily bring him to tears. He never had such relationships with anyone in his family. No one said it, yet Toya couldn’t help but believe he was blamed for his mother's death amongst his family. She had died in childbirth, which was in no way Toya’s fault, obviously.   

His brothers thought quite the opposite. They made that much clear with their absence.   

So even though it ached, their deaths in the war were not even close to the scar that Saki’s death left on him. She and her brother were much more family to Toya than any of his actual blood. The bluenette had only a handful of those who truly cared for him, as he did for them. So, nothing breaks his heart as the realisation that he most likely has lost his true to heart big sister and his big brother. He only had Akito left- and then, the title was misplaced.  

Indeed, Toya didn’t really have any family left. Tsukasa was stood right next to him, but there was an ocean between them. 

“uhm, Kasa? Have you spoken with my father recently? How has he been?” Toya quietly asked. 

No matter how far Toya felt Tsukasa had gone, he would never really realise that the blonde still cared about him - if anything he cared for him more now than he did before he lost Saki. He knows just how fragile he boy’s relationship with his father was, as even if he didn’t notice, Tsukasa would always protect him from the tyrant. Unseen war wounds scarred the king’s hand, and unseen they would remain.  

“ Not very recently, no one sees him other than in meetings to be honest- you probably do not have anything to worry about though. This is just a stupid discussion of what to do when we celebrate. I doubt he would even try to speak to you directly, Toya.” hearing his name come from Tsukasa really did put a smile of the other’s face. 

“right... thank you.” Toya replied softly. 

“Oh, and Toya? Turn around for a moment if you will.” Tsukasa quietly asked.  

Confused, Toya turned to the other whilst pulling a face. 

Tsukasa than with ease tore off one of his gloves via his teeth, then reached up towards Toya’s hair, brushing then slicking his azure bangs back out of his face - fully revealing his dove grey eyes along with his forehead. Toya, in shock simply stood still eyes closed as Tsukasa messed around with the taller boy’s hair for a moment longer. For that moment, he was but a boy again, in awe of Tsukasa’s boundless heart. 

“There, that looks much neater.” the blonde said, removing his hands from the other. Toya physically couldn't hold back his smile, thanking the other as he began walking once again. 

Tsukasa then nodded and continued looking forward as they were nearing the main hall.  

It wasn’t the grandest of halls, as the castle of the north was hardly big to begin with. The foot of the room consisted of a long wooden table where the royals would sit, however with only two royals left to sit at it, it looked much larger than it was. Toya would also always make sure to sit at the very other end, and away from his father at all costs. The walls were grey, the only light source coming from the gloomy white skies from outside and the small chandeliers that had pathetically small candles placed on them, many unlit. There was another table in the middle of the room where the council were seated. Most notable of the council were two girls, one with thin straight black hair, that often reflected the light in a way that made it look a deep navy blue. The other, with soft brown locks tied into a side ponytail. She had bright azure eyes and a small fringe sitting atop her forehead. The girl donned a white satin looking dress, not quite ascending to the rank deserving of silk. A navy border around the collar framed her pale face. The four other council members felt very plain to the rest of them, so much so Toya literally could not name any of them, thus neither will I.  

His father, sat at the head of the royals table, his ever-usual scowl atop his face. 

His military jacket was decorated to the extent that spoke of one too many wars, too many conquests and too many days spent leading the charge. It was wind-battered, and yet the velveteen shine reflected the light in such a way that he seemed as if he was not there. His greyed hair was slicked back, whetted with the bloodshed of those crushed beneath his heel – enemy and subject alike bowed to his whim.  

The prince stiffened the second he realised his father has noticed him, and he looked away - catching Tsukasa’s eyes as he did. The blonde actually offered him the smallest of smiles; then nodded in the direction of where he would sit. That moment did give Toya a little bit of relief however it did not last as he sat, as far as he could, from his father. 

“Your hair is barely acceptable for a commoner, let alone a monarch, boy.” the King commented to his son, without looking his direction.  

Toya did not respond, reluctantly pulling his hair down from the new style.  

All sat still waiting on the King’s signal allowing them to begin. The hulking figure merely raised a hand as if this meeting was a trifling waste of his precious time.  

She nodded, then stood, placing a piece of parchment in front of her. 

“Greetings to all, your Majesty, your Highness. Allow me to begin our council meeting in which we shall discuss the preparations for the post-war celebrations of the northern kingdom.” she took a breath then turned to one of the blander looking council members, a woman with long, dark grey hair, then began to speak. 

Not much was worthy of noting in Toya’s opinion, he could barely pay attention a few minutes in due to his utter disinterest on the topic. After a while he just rested his face in his palms and attempted to look at the window, only coming back reality when he heard the hall door open revealing Akito - making good on his promise to arrive at some point. The two of them shared a mutual smile, and the ginger placed himself at Toya’s side. 

Toya would have liked to think the meeting was going just fine, until his train of thought was derailed by his father’s booming voice.  

“You are correct, Mochizuki. It has been far too long that our kingdoms have been at opposition with one another.” A god could be placed in the room and they would have cowered in fear. It is a wonder that Toya had withstood it as long as he did. “Enlighten me as to a solution. In as few words as possible.”. 

“Well...” the dark-haired girl began, clearing her throat. The monarch’s cold glare snapping to her gave rise to a stale pause that sucked the oxygen from the room. 

“...a royal marriage, of course.” 

If Toya, Akito, and Tsukasa were all in the middle of taking a sip of a drink, all three of them would have spat it out in such perfect union you’d think it had been rehearsed several times. And of the three of them, all eyes were wide, expressions that of dread, and Tsukasa was the first to speak up. 

“Forgive me your grace, but what does that entail?” the blonde sputtered, showing a large shred of emotion for the first time in years. 

“Are you a fool, boy? The Prince will marry a suitor of my choosing of the South.” If the king felt anything other than animosity, it was not visible.  

Akito's head snapped toward Toya searching for his reaction, in desperate hope that he had not had any say in this decision yet - and so sighed a paradoxical sigh of relief when he saw the fear inscribed across Toya’s face. 

Such a selfish notion. And yet, it persisted.  

In fact, Akito’s hand drifted over the hilt of his sword. Then snapped it away as if it burned. The council members all seemed pleasantly surprised by the sudden proposition of the king, completely unlike the prince himself. In fact, as they all turned to quietly discuss their opinions on the matter Toya stood quickly slamming his hands atop the table he was now stood at. 

“Sorry but do I not get a say in this-?!” fumed the bluenette. His father barely even bat an eye at his outburst for a moment. “You cannot just make such decisions for me! I am well enough an adult and my own person; I absolutely refuse to be just wedded off like this-!” Chastised the furious heir.                         

To that the king also stood and turned to his son. An indication he was human, at last. 

“No. You are but a whelp under my command, much as any other subject – and you will act in accordance. The decision is made. If it is not to your liking, I suggest the stable would make a much more welcoming home for you.” 

The bluenette sputtered for a moment, struggling to find a rebuttal. Thankfully, Tsukasa stood forward again, pressing his voice further. Toya used the moment to recover.  

“I beg your pardon, your Majesty, has the princess not barely just met maturity? She is far too young a bride for him.” he spoke swiftly, taking a glace as the ever so fuming redhead stood behind Toya, he looked seconds away from quite literally exploding. At Tsukasa's comment the brown-haired council member stood and responded. 

“The princess is much old enough to look into marriage I would say, I cannot think of any way more succinct to bring our kingdoms together in harmony!” the man praised sending quite the suspicious look in the prince’s way.  

“Absolutely not-! I am not marrying for convenience! No matter how immature it sounds, if I am to marry, I want it to be for love!” the prince argued, stepping closer to the king as he spoke. 

“And what is love to you, arrogant fool? Some harlot fantasy in which you should never sire an heir?” The words were bitter venom in Akito’s direction. “Marriage has never been for something as fleeting as love. It is a notion for those beneath us- your mother is dead and so be your brothers it is your duty as the only remaining heir to secure succession” 

Too shocked to speak, Toya simply scoffed and avoided his father's eye contact.  

Tsukasa sadly looked toward his defeated prince, then spoke. “If you are to convince your son of this, insulting him in such a way is perhaps not a smart decision your majesty, perhaps a few days to think over this new, life changing choice is what he needs? However, that is just my advice.” Tsukasa then a made a look that said I'm trying my very best at finding the best outcome here.  

“ And what, pray tell, would you want for our kingdom, knave? Further war? I am certain that sister of yours would revel in the opportunity for vengeance.” 

Toya could hear the wood of the captain’s chair breaking under Akito's iron grip. A few more comments and that chair, with Toya on it, would be launched at the king. 

He kind of wishes he could live in the reality where that actually takes place. 

One of the other council members spoke again in the king’s stead, the girl with long black hair. “If I may Sir Tenma, if this wedding happens, we would have much more secure control over the South – they would not dare an invasion with our heirs in union, giving you an easy access on tracking down your sisters killer...” 

It really wasn't fair to use that weakness on Tsukasa, vengeful as he was.  

“Truly, I do not care for any differing opinions. You are young, child, and naïve - learn from your elders, for once in your whimpering life, and sacrifice as I have unto you. I need not remind you the power at hand should I- you, gain a political foothold in the Southern lands.” 

Toya decided the best reply to give at that moment were to stay silent and begrudgingly sit in defeat. The king's word has always been absolute after all. So, what would be the point in arguing an already lost case? How infuriating, he thought. In fact, to no one's notice, not even the caster, his sour and distraught mood had brought about a distinct drop in the temperature of the room, so much so the ceiling could have started forming icicles had he stayed in the room much longer.  

Gooseflesh erupted across Akito’s skin. Naturally, he assumed the situation at hand was to blame.  

A few more comments were shared between the council before the now freezing temperature of the room had been noticed, none knowing of the cause, yet assigning it to being another perk of being the most northern settlement in the territory.  

Nevertheless, time passed, and the king was among the first noticed the unnaturally cold building, and with one last converse with the black-haired council member, swiftly ended the council meeting. His own comfort was paramount. 

After the room had cleared and Toya began to get up and gather himself, his captain already closely following behind him. 

“Boy. A word.” The king did not hesitate. “Send an order to the merchants to increase the wool wadding in the war council walls. These winters are growing harsher by the day. The minute, even. Do you have any idea why?” A pointed glare. 

To the prince's defence, he seemed genuinely confused as to what his father was referring to and responded with a simple: “sorry I'm not sure I follow father...” the bluenette then turned to Akito motioning his hand toward the door requesting him to wait outside, wordlessly achieved. 

“Do not think your manipulation of the arcane escaped my notice. A fool’s venture, to do so before me.” he boomed, the glare he gave colder than the chilly air around them. 

The prince's eyes widened in surprise; he looked down to his hands. At first, nothing. Then, a slight static spread across his fingers, a jolting current that set his hair on end.  

“If I am being truly honest with you father, I had no idea I was doing so... it uhm,, I think it just happens sometimes without me knowing.” replied the bluenette, too shocked to formulate a proper response.  

“And to think you are my flesh and blood. Learn to control it, or I will control it for you.” A cryptic message, yet perfectly understood by the dark tone to the King’s voice.  

“I would be able to control it more if you would actually let me practice and develop my skills, you just tell me its unsafe to do so and that I'll just get myself killed.” 

“Your safety is of no concern. I am concerned that you will end my bloodline with a whimper. Control it. That is final.” Bellowed the King. 

“That's just a stupid way of saying you have no understanding of magic, ergo don’t want me to know about something-!” The resolve building in his chest was a blaze, far too igneous to be extinguished by the arctic cold. 

“Remember your place!” 

“I will do as I please when debating this! I fear The longer I try conceal this the more dangerous it could get!” 

“A subject neither of us are knowledgeable of. Or would you prefer you die, alone and entombed in ice?” 

“Why can you not see this gift as something positive? I will not believe that your concern stems from genuine care because you do not care for me!” as if to make a point of the prince’s rage enhancing, again his inability to control his gift struck once more - as a few icicles fell from the ceiling, making an unnaturally loud impact on the ground bellow, falling just a hair away from the two deep in argument. 

This however quickly knocked Toya’s resolve and had him stepping back, as if he, himself had just proven his father correct. Brilliant, he thought. 

“Gather yourself. I shall not expect any such behaviour by the day of your wedding.” the king commanded. Turning on his heel away from his son, he refused to allow the bluenette to get a second word in; the king stalked out the room quite violently letting the large marble doors slam behind him. 

Toya sighed and rubbed his hands over his face a multitude of times. 

Genuinely, how could this get worse? The boy asked to no one in particular. And to answer his question, well, in many, many ways. 

Akito was stood diligently outside the doors of the great hall; he jumped slightly as the king loudly appeared from behind him. He looked Akito once over then spoke. 

“State your business, captain.” the taller requested. 

Akito subconsciously stood on his tiptoes, trying to get a few more inches closer to the king's height. 

“I am waiting for his highness as requested of me.” the ginger simply replied. 

At that the kings eyes narrowed. 

“I am certain your time can be spent much more meaningfully. Take your squadron out to survey the northwest of the midlands – I am certain the bandits of that area will push too deep into our territory if spared.” 

“With all due respect, your majesty I am quite certain my knights and I disposed of the most imminent threat of midland bandits threatening to push into the north.” 

“That was not a request, but a command captain.” 

Akito attempted to push for time, yet Toya still hadn't appeared from the hall - so the boy accepted his fate and hoped Toya would take his absence in waiting for him meaning he had a place to be, and that he’d meet him later in the day.  

“Very well, your majesty, I will depart.” and with that the ginger stalked off the movement, swaying his cape in a way that made his exist much more dramatic than it needed to be.  

And of course, as timing had it, Toya then appeared from the main hall looking visible tired from the sheer amount of stress that had started brewing since he had first sat in the meeting. He looked from left to right survey if Akito was in the area, only to be met with a cold glare from his farther. 

“Looking for something?” 

Toya frowned, already knowing why Akito was no longer stood waiting for him. He gave no response to his father. 

“Get on with your day, by the Gods. The tailor is expecting you, and do not consider shirking your duty to this kingdom.”  

There was a point in which the King’s tone just started to physically hurt Toya’s ears - everything he spoke, everything he did, just incited more pain . So, to do all in his power to get away from his dreaded old man, the bluenette simply nodded and took himself in the direction of the building in which the tailor and dressmakers resided.  

He thought, for a moment, what the south was like in all actuality- and for a long while he wondered if the queen was just as nasty to her daughter as his father was to him. 

Nope, surely not. The bar is on the floor.