Chapter Text
Kou was an unfortunate child. At least, in the eyes of those whose opinions mattered. It may be a matter of when he was born, between his two far superior siblings. His older brother, Teru was the poster child of perfection. Everyone wanted to be him or be with him. His effortless charisma and his gorgeous frame helped him easily win over the people. And of course, Kou’s little sister, Tiara. She was an absolute prodigy at only 8 years old. Not to mention the fact she was the first Minamoto daughter in generations. She didn’t have much she could really do at her young age, but she didn’t need to.
Kou’s family made jokes about Kou’s uselessness, comments about how they’d need to find a use for him, or otherwise dispose of the useless boy. They were just ‘funny’ comments, even if there was an underlying genuineness behind it. Therefore, Kou never let it show how much the comments annoyed him. Though they really did get in his head. Sure, his siblings were so amazing or whatever, but Kou wasn’t worthless. He was in touch with the people of his kingdom- the Sunflower Kingdom- and did plenty to help maintain the kingdom’s status and balance. Sometimes with the help of Prince Sousuke from the Lotus Kingdom - their allies - but often all alone. They couldn’t see all the effort he put in to help. He was fine with his work going uncredited, he didn’t do it for fame. But the jokes about him not doing anything got to him. He couldn’t help it.
Today, he had nothing to do. No plans, no important meetings to attend - though even when there were meetings to attend, he was rarely allowed to go - nothing. He could relax, maybe go down to the village, maybe-
“Kou.” Teru says, suddenly opening his door. It frustrated Kou how clear it was Teru thought he was above things like knocking. Kou sits up to meet Teru’s stone cold gaze. “You’re useless. Still.” Teru states bluntly. Kou is caught slightly off guard by the statement but quickly regains his composure and gestures for Teru to go on. “You’re officially 18 and there’s discussion of potentially really booting you.” Kou pauses.
“I know…” he mutters. “What can I do? I’ve tried… everything I can.” Kou doesn’t meet Teru’s gaze.
“Not quite everything. You’re aware of our good allies of the Lotus Kingdom, yes? Well, I’ve also heard talk of arranging a marriage with one of them to solidify the bond. I’m sure volunteering will do you pretty good. Well, no need to worry because I made sure mother and father know you’re more than willing. And they’re very thankful.” Teru says. Kou stares at him for a few seconds, attempting to find his voice. “You’re familiar with Mizuki Mitsuba as far as I’m aware. Your soon to be wife?”
Kou pauses. “I… EXCUSE ME??? YOU DID WHAT!?!?” He shouts, completely not expecting the sudden bomb to be dropped on him.
“You should be thanking me, Kou. I saved your pathetic ass.” For a prestigious royal with the most polite and formal manner of speaking typically, he sure was quite rude and unprofessional with Kou. Though, Kou was the one who’d just screamed at him.
“…You’re right. Apologies, Teru.”
“You have 10 days.” Teru says with a knowing smirk before leaving.
“…Asshole.” Kou mutters, feeling a sudden strong urge to throw himself into a well and drown.