#kiome

As he anticipated, his path to the throne room was littered with bows, and happy birthday wishes from court, and staff members alike. The throne room was no different- quite a gathering appeared before him offering praise and gifts the like. Kiome laughed nervously trying to graciously accept all of these kind offerings. The prince was given a moment of reprieve when his father entered from the door adjacent to him, momentarily redirecting the crowd's attention.

“There you are~ I was wondering when you’d stop lazing about in your room!” The King jested- quickly making his way beside his son. Kiome rolls his eyes at the comment yet smiles nonetheless.

“Happy birthday my dear boy~” King Monobe lifts him into a warm, and slightly crushing embrace. Kiome returns the gesture as best he can through his fathers ridiculous strength.

“Thanks Pa’~” The prince responds, catching his breath after being put down.

“I hope you’re ready for today- there are some real showstoppers here this year!” His fathers excited tone doesn’t reflect on Kiome’s expression, but he doesn’t have the heart to say anything- he knows the king means well.

“Well how about we start off small, maybe a tour through the castle town first?” Kiome inquires, hoping to delay the inevitable if only for a while. The king ponders for a moment before agreeing- on the condition that he be back by the afternoon. He sighs in relief, having bought himself some time before he was absolutely swamped with guests. After a promise to return and a quick goodbye, the prince sets out to enjoy the town's festivities- and maybe look for a certain someone.

—

Cake decorating had always been a specialty of his- but this time Ryota had truly outdone himself. The cascading chocolate crème filling each layer as detailed roses sat along its ventral surface. It was his masterpiece, the perfect gift for the prince on his birthday. Ryota can’t help but feel nervous, and giddy at the same time at the idea of giving it to him, maybe even having him try a slice. Shaking those thoughts away- Ryota refocuses on putting the finishing touches on his work.

“Gotta focus-” Taking a step back, the baker contemplates what the cake itself is missing. Reaching for the back pantry he intends to line the top with a few more chocolate morsels before adding any non edible dressings. Unfortunately he comes back empty handed, having used all he had for the cake batter itself.

“Hmm, it's not too late- there may still be some time, '' Ryota mutters to himself. If he could get to one of the local stores before the festival rush he’d be able to get what he needed. Giving himself a quick wash- the apprentice dons his trusty satchel as he heads into town.

When he arrives the main alley is already bustling with towns folk, celebrating about. The street tops are accessorized with silver, and gold trimmings adorned with the royal family crest. Vendor carts, and stands line the streets edge with exotic treats and themed trinkets. Taking a breath Ryota steels himself, tightening his grip on his satchel before wading through the massive crowd to one of the import stores along the sidewalk. The redhead figured most would be closed for the occasion yet kept hope as he searched the alley. Along the way a joyous chorus starts from the central band, and a crowd begins to form in the town square.

—

Walking through the castle gates, Kiome is immediately greeted by the colorful sights of a decorated city. Even the trolley lines were dressed with silver, and gold patterned cloth. It was truly a sight to marvel at. Thankfully the townspeople don’t notice the prince immediately, allowing him time to wander about the various stands, and activities. The smell of sweet fried dough, the sight of mini lanterns, and paper aircrafts flying through the air- the atmosphere was perfect to get lost in.

Kiome settled himself into one of the vendor stand lines, wanting to try one of the fried delicacies- funnel cake he heard them call it. Looking around into the almost massive crowd the prince catches a glimpse of a familiar shade of red- darting off in the distance. It immediately has his full attention as he looks around further to confirm who he thinks he saw. The prince is so focused that he doesn't hear the vendor call for the next person. He spots it again- that flash of red just beyond the crowd- seemingly in a hurry. Kiome’s almost inclined to chase after him but is interrupted.

“I-is that you your majesty??” The questioning tone of the stand vendor soon becomes one of excitement as Kiome is finally recognized. Immediately the poor prince is completely swarmed by the crowds- converging all to his location. Even as he maneuvers his way to the town square, he can’t escape. The central band begins another piece, and the music blaring along with the surrounding crowd overwhelms him as he tries to put on a happy front. In an attempt to get some breathing room Kiome climbs atop the band's stage, thankful that the band seemed sympathetic to his cause. From there he surveys the square once again- seeing no sign of the royal chef's apprentice. His mood dampens slightly, yet still the prince makes the best of the situation taking the time to answer the calls of the townspeople below.

“Why- y-yes thank you, i appreciate it all thank you~”

—

It passed about early evening when Ryota finished his work- the cake was now adorned with 4 chocolate morsels atop the roses, a dark chocolate bar, and puffed wafer for good measure. Sprinkling a few chips atop as a finishing touch the baker took a moment to admire his work. Placing it carefully in its crystal container, Ryota excitedly changes his clothes to something less covered in flour- donning his best royal coat. Leaving the kitchens once again as the sun began to set. The once bustling festival of mid day had calmed with a more serene atmosphere as older couples and wayward travelers walked the alleyway.

The redhead makes a beeline to the castle's front courtyard where most of the crowd migrated to release lanterns for the prince's birthday- a lot of them were still setting up, finding good spots to sit and watch the impending show. He hadn't seen the prince there so he headed in further, entering the castle itself. Oddly enough it seemed far too quiet for what he expected. Ryota’s pace slows as he travels the halls, making his way to the throne room where he assumed the prince to be. However what awaited him once he got there was a room full of consorts and royal court staff yet no prince in sight.

“Still no sight of him eh?” The king inquired of his adviser Toji. From hearing that the prince had disappeared he began to worry. Ryota hadn’t seen him yet, and he didn’t want to miss his chance.

“Ah- Ryota good timing, it appears my son has hidden himself away somewhere on the castle grounds- please accompany the others to search for him, I don’t want him to miss his own lanterns release.” King Monobe directed. The apprentice nods in confusion following some of the maids out of a side hall. He was stuck, the boy had no idea where the prince could be at a time like this, surely he wouldn't want to miss his own celebrations.

“I hope this year's celebration wasn't too much for him..”

“I wouldn’t be surprised he’s never been one to seek attention like this, despite his lineage..”

Hearing the whispers of the maids gave Ryota the perfect idea of where to look. He knew exactly where the prince would be, especially at a time like this. Offering a short excuse to split up, the chef's apprentice quickly makes his way to castles west bell tower- bounding up the steps to the ringing station. Once there he follows the path down the trap door leading to the castle's high rise- connecting both wings from above. There he finds the prince sitting alone with a bottle of ale, gazing upon the front courtyard… noticeably exhausted.

“I suppose there wouldn’t be any room for company~” The redhead's words startle Kiome from his thoughts- he turns to see who it is, his expression brightening once he recognizes the familiar face. Suddenly the royal is self conscious of how he looks, his crown is disheveled, and his sash wrinkled- it doesn't help that he’s been drinking.

“It’s okay- I could use some right now.” He responds with an uncharacteristic shyness. Ryota takes a seat next to the prince, letting his legs dangle over the high rises edge. The two are quiet for a while, letting the gentle summer breeze fill the silence. Kiome isn’t sure at all what to say in the moment, thankfully the boy beside him does.

“H-happy birthday!” Kiome is greeted at the sight of what he can only describe as a work of art. Gazing excitedly at the gift now in his hands, he points to himself dumbly as if he’s unsure if the cake is for him.

“Wow it's.. It's beautiful…” The words kindness render Ryota red in the face and unable to look him in the eyes. It looks so well composed that Kiome is hesitant to open it at first.

“Well go on, try it~” The prince is handed a fork, and wastes no time in cutting through the velvety dessert. Kiome takes a piece- sliding it thoughtfully into his mouth, letting the burst of chocolate spread through his taste buds. His eyes close as he savors the sweet, rich flavors of the cake, sighing in content when he finishes.

“This is amazing!! How’d you make somethin’ like this~” The princes comment leaves Ryota blushing even more as he tries to be modest about it.

“Oh c’mon it's not that good.” He’s screaming on the inside but he wouldn’t dare let it slip.

“Oh really? Then how about you try it and see for yourself, as far as i can tell this might just be the best cake I've ever tasted..” The prince responds with flattery, taking another piece and holding it up to the redhead's mouth.

“W-what!? N-no I couldn’t, it’s supposed to be for you y’know…”He trails off, seemingly losing his confidence. All this does is spur the prince on further- Kiome scoots closer to him waving the dessert in front of the chef's apprentice teasingly.

“Just one bite, I promise you’ll love it~” And like that the redhead gives in, allowing the prince to feed him the sweet confection in one fluid motion. Ryota would be lying if he said he didn’t love it, the creaminess of the filling, and the spongy texture meshed perfectly- he couldn’t hide the smile that snuck onto his features.

“Told ya~” Kiome chided with a smirk. He further convinced the baker to share the cake with him as they sat atop the high-rise, the sun setting in front of them in purplish red hues. Pretty soon dusk had fallen and with that the lanterns were released into the night sky. They were of all kinds of shapes, and as they passed the two it was if the stars were rising into the night. Their gazes followed them as the breeze carried them westward. Then amidst the lanterns rising Ryota noticed even more glimmers in the stars.

“Look! It’s a meteor shower~” The boy exclaimed. The sky littered with lanterns and streaking lights seemed to be nothing short of perfect. The prince responds with a nod as he looks up, not so subtly taking Ryota’s hand into his. It wasn’t as if he minded though…..

Fin~

As always comments & reviews are always appreciated-

Anywho i hope you enjoy what i have here even if its not much~

Eyes set adrift a sunlit room that morning. Echos of his dream still rang clearly in his thoughts. Kiome shifts from the dorm’s bed in a slow fluid motion. Standing to stretch, he revels in the subtle pops and cracks that surge through his body. Stray tears are wiped away as the sleep slowly fades from his eyes. He’s standing at the bathroom mirror- trying for once to remember the sights from his last dream, nothing comes to mind except flashes of red and pink hues. However what he remembers more than anything- and what he can't seem to shake from his mind; is the lullaby-like melody and the words playing over and over in soft loops.

“I knocked on your bedroom door~” The lyrics come to him so naturally that Kiome can't help but hum them as he brushes his teeth. Strangely enough it’s accompanied by faint strums of a guitar that isn't really there- all things he chooses to ignore. The poor boy's life is confusing enough already.

It takes no more than an hour for Kiome to be ready and out of the dorm, checking his phone to ensure he isn't late for homeroom. Summer’s in full swing as the temperatures rise to the mid 80’s and the scent of blooming sunflowers once again grace the air. Kiome’s pace slows as he’s accompanied by Ryota, Kengo, and Shiro, with the latter two engaged in their usual morning banter. The swordsman falls behind a bit- still trapped by thoughts of his dreams. Something about the clouds wispy white puffs is strangely familiar, and he finds himself unable to contain the smile that forms in response. Ryota gives him a questioning look, yet with a smile from Kiome brushes it off as a sign that today would just be a good day.

First period is no slower than usual, Ziz moves her lesson along at a comfortable pace allowing Kiome time to daydream. His mind wanders again to the contents of his recurring dreams, something similar to a sad nostalgia seems to wash over him in the moment. He remembers… losing something- someone, but when he screams the question of who into the void- he gets no response, only the words he can't seem to get out of his head

“Darling, I love you~”

The school day seems to blur by, a collection of laughs and sighing wistfully at the antics of his classmates. Kiome is packing up from his last class when he hears an intriguing rumor amongst his friends.

“Yeah, something about hearin’ strange music and coming back from hell-'' Kengo mutters in between bites of the treats Ryota had brought for them. His interest piqued- Kiome slid closer to the group, getting a rainbow bun from Ryota in the process. Morikata continues the story- telling them of how a group of transients attempted to salvage some sunken treasure- only to have their ship sunk by some mysterious sound wave. As the information kept coming in by each of his peers, he’d figured he knew where his next adventure was.

“Sounds like they got into some serious trouble for it, even if it is true we don't have much to go on '' Shiro's words of warning felt strangely directed at just him, but regardless this wasn't something the swordsman was just gonna let pass by. At another mention of Nakano by the others, the boy's mind shifts to some familiar faces. Knowing it was anything involving ships, Eita and the others especially Benten. Benten would definitely be there- He’d go on and check on them while he was there. The group all decides to hold a study session together for the upcoming exams, and while Kiome wouldn't mind attending- he had other matters to attend to.

“You’re headed for the station~” Toji approached him in the school's main courtyard, speaking it as more of a statement than a question. It didn't take long for him to get the gist of it.. Of why he had to go, what surprised Kiome further is when he offered to cover for him. Looking back on it the swordsman owed him one, big time. There was this strange sense of anticipation as he boarded the train, he felt this trip would be something… important. The train ride to Nakano was quiet enough, and he pretty much spent it lost in his own head, but once he arrived, the hustle and bustle of the ward itself was almost overwhelming, he had a slight idea of what he was looking for, but no clue where to even start. Seemingly lost, Kiome sighed in relief when his phone started to buzz. The familiar Buzz, and jingle that always came when lil Sal appeared.

“Ta-Dah! It’s your trusty Familiar Lil’ Salomon at your service.” The small familiars antics aside, it was good to see him, and give a few belly rubs while he was at it.

“Woah- what are we doing all the way in Nakano Master?” After relaying the information he’d heard from his friends, Lil Sal proceeded to go through the list of apparent hits his search had brung up. They're soon heading to the shopping complex looking for the largest crowd they could find. In the shopping districts center the crowd is overflowing- Kiome can barely weave through the torrent of passing bodies let alone focus enough to find anything. Yet among the clamoring voices of conversation he begins to hear a voice, a boy's voice.

“H-hello, are you interested in embarking on a wondrous adventure!” Kiome follows the sound of it, weeding through the lessening crowd to its source. The more he heard it, the more the swordsman felt he had heard it before.

“A Life changing Journey on the open seas, with undiscovered riches!” After a lot of pushing the crowds dispersed until Kiome found himself in a clearing. The voice was loud and clear yet as he turned about- he couldn’t find a figure to match said voice.

“Here's What I think of your stupid treasure hunt!!” The clear yells of a transient rang out- drawing the boys attention. It was a therian- dressed kind of like a generic video game mob- and in front of him was clearly the person he’d been looking for. He makes a bee line for them but before Kiome can reach the pink haired boy is shoved in his direction. Instinctually he goes to catch the poor victim, falling to the ground with a heavy thud. Flyers have scattered everywhere, and he can hear the snickering of those passing by.

“Oi- hey are you okay..” Kiome looks up as the words leave his mouth, only to meet a pair of silver- pink hued eyes..

And suddenly- his head hurts...