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Chapter Text

"Akito!-" An called for her knight. Having thrown off her heels as they ran. Slipping and falling all the way to the castle. Only having been able to make it this far thanks to Akito who was keeping their chasers at bay. The forest was turning dark rather quickly. Making it difficult to see through the thick bushes and trees. Having lost the path through the forest long ago.

"Go on ahead! Go call for Tsukasa and Mizuki!" Akito said, throwing An onto his white horse that was galloping past.

"Fuck no! Get on lets just go together-" An cried, trying to reach for the ginger who wasn't able to pull himself up onto the moving horse. Even falling down and crashing onto the ground.

"Go!- it doesn't matter as long as you get back to the castle safely that's all that matters right now Shiraishi!" Akito screamed. Watching as An's dirty dress full of dirt and what not rode awkwardly on the moving horse galloping out of vision.

Akito groaned looking down at his thigh that had a magical arrow deeply engraved into it. Hissing as he laid there trying to catch his breath. There was no way he'd be able to run away fast enough with An with his injury. It wouldn't be possible to climb on his horse so he'd have to hope An could make it back safely.

Akito tried staying awake, dragging himself towards the light kingdom only to have a foot on his back a few minutes later, stopping him from moving.

"The legendary Mr. Shinonome~ my, my, what's happened to you?~" The persons voice wasn't familiar to Akito. They grabbed him by the hair lifting his head to face them. Their face was covered by a scarf, cloth, a face mask- impossible to see through. Leaving Akito wondering- and guessing who this person was.

"Take him to the camp, We'll see what they say to do with him from there." The person said, Akito guessed they weren't alone. Which seemed to make sense since they caught up much too quickly and they obviously weren't very well with magic. Plus they didn't have any arrows or bows on them. So someone else must've shot Akito's thigh.

Akito closed his eyes, internally cursing himself for not expecting the person to come with others. He really thought they came alone...

Akito woke up his head pounding, about to reach up only to find his hands tied behind his back tightly against a pole. Looking up Akito realized he was in a makeshift tent. Trying to undo the rope with no avail he sat there for what felt like forever- While he waited he looked around trying to get an understanding of where he was- until someone walked in.

A girl with long red hair staring down at him. Smirking down at him with dark green eyes, she had large eye bangs under them, looking all cocky but also somewhat tired as she walked right up to Akito.

The cloaked covered person came in right behind this girl. Silent as the red haired girl toyed with Akito's hair while crouched down next to him.

"So-" The red haired girl started talking. Her voice somewhat tired obviously lacking some sleep but it seemed normal that the girl didn't act very tired.

"This is what am experimenting the potion on?" She said, finally standing and walking over to a wooden table in the tent that seemed to hold ingredients and bottles. The desk seemed messy from Akito's angle but he didn't care enough to keep looking. His focus was on the exit, seeing how the tent entrance opened up showing him the forest outside.

The two people talked, for A while. Akito was so close to undoing his rope while they talked- before the cloaked person stopped him and tied him up even tighter.

"Have you ever been tested on?" The red haired asked tying her hair up into a ponytail. Akito didn't answer her though. and she continued talking. 

"Don't worry, it won't hurt- maybe~" She said, ignoring Akito's surprise and obvious reluctance

"Alright, lets test these~" The red haired girl hummed. Walking up to Akito, holding a needle that she poked into the vein on his wrist. Akito felt nothing but he did try to kick the girl away only to find out he couldn't move his body. She must've drugged him so he couldn't move or escape.

Everything else was black after that.

Chapter Text

Akito woke up in a cage, immediately he stood up- to his surprise everything was so much bigger then when he last was awake. Confused he opened his mouth only to let out a

"Meow,"

"WHAT THE FUCK!?" He screamed, but for some reason it kept translating into an angry and aggressive meow. Hissing as the red haired girl woke up from the bed inside the tent nearby with a yawn.

The girl smiled obviously annoyed though. With the ruckus Akito was making and the noise. But she mumbled something about the potion failing, as she walked up to Akito. Who was trying to claw and scratch at her through the cage.

"Well, thank goodness I didn't sell that on the market... I'd probably get fired on the spot if a wealthy customer was just trying to get more powerful and turned into a cat..."

A cat...?- but Akito was a human- he'd always been a human... What did she do to him!? What was that potion!? What did she feed him!?

"Now I know what potions to not mix at least." She said, grabbing the cage with the frightened cat who was crouched into a corner meowing and crying. Akito's thigh was still injured, but as a cat... His whole leg was hurting him,

"Shut up! Go away already. Your lucky your cute otherwise I'd have just killed you!" The red head screamed. Throwing the cat out of the cage roughly into a bush. Making Akito hurt himself more his injury coming down on him like an arrow (get it?) She left him deep into the forest with the obvious plan of leaving him. Having quickly turned and walked off.

Akito was about to chase after her- No, he couldn't stay as a cat! He was A powerful knight! What kind of knight transforms into a damn cat!? 

But as he tried to stand and chase her he fell suddenly feeling the sting of his furry leg injured, plus with the fact he wasn't human anymore he couldn't walk on his hind legs. His (now) furry body was weak. Not used to anything yet he passed out rather quickly.

Akito crawled around for hours after he woke up. Refusing to give up with his stubborn attitude, after so long he finally came across a kingdom, he didn't know which one this was. But he also didn't care enough. Finally letting himself rest for A while he was able to stand. Though he had an obvious limp in his steps he walked into the kingdom-

ONLY TO BE CHASED BY A FUCKING DOG!?

"WHAT DAMN GOD DID I ANGER!?"  He meowed and hissed in his cat form running on all fours even forgetting he was injured only focusing on running away from the dog. Ignoring everything he ran into carts, and ran on top of food stands and sellers. Accidentally distorting the market and having multiple people chase after him. 

But the damn dog kept chasing him!? 

His furry body was growing tired. But every time the dog barked at him suddenly he could run another mile- thank the heavens,

But without realizing in his sprint around the kingdom he ran past and through the castles large gates. Running past guards that now chased him and the dog. Calling the dog 'princess'

"Stupid dog should be called moron!"  Akito meowed, running straight past someone who stopped the dog.

This dog was surprised, obviously it was pampered its whole life so it didn't understand why someone was in its way. Even daring to jump and try to bite the human, but this human kicked the dog down making it lose balance and whimper as it hit the floor.

"Finally! So there is someone who'll stop the dog!"  Akito sobbed in relief. But staring up at the person- he realized who this dog stopper was-

sharp grey eyes and a mole under the corner of his left eye- His hair is short and bicolored, the right side a dark blue, the left a light blue-

FUCK THIS WAS TOYA AOYAGI! THE MAN WHO AKITO CLASHED WITH MULTIPLE TIMES DURING THE WARS BETWEEN THE LIGHT AND DARK KINGDOM!?

Just his luck... This had to mean he was in the dark kingdom...

"Sir Aoyagi!" A butler called, who was leading a crying child who quickly held onto the dog that was kicked down.

"Please excuse this dog! His highness must understand this is the noble consort's dog that has gotten loose from its play pen!" The butler said, frightfully falling to his knees, obviously having been in charge of taking care of this damn dog.

Toya didn't bat an eye, continuing to walk. Toya right hand woman- Mafuyu was right behind him. With a glance from Toya she spoke.

"Get it out of our sight."Mafuyu said, her voice cold as the butler quickly grabbed the kid and dog. Scurrying off.

Toya looked down at the ginger cat, only for A good second before continuing to walk with Mafuyu trailing behind him.

"fuck- don't leave yet!"  Akito meowed, trying to crawl after him. This was the only one who stopped the annoying ass dog. Even if Akito really didn't like Toya at the moment, but he was a cat. And Toya didn't know it was him, he needed help. And the only person he really could count on at the moment was Toya.

Akito meowed after him, dragging himself but no matter how hard he tried Toya just kept walking... Akito closed his eyes with a sigh, he already felt like he was losing energy. This was it...

He really was about to die as a cat... He'd never see His best friend An become queen, he'd never see Mizuki and her annoying ass voice anymore... Never see Tsukasa and tease him... Never see Ena get mad at him and argue with him- he'd never see her find and marry the love of her life- he'd never be there for her and support her-

As all this was going through Akito's head not paying attention to what was around him. Toya turned around, looking at the ground like he forgot something. The confused Mafuyu trailing after him before he came across the ginger cat... He saw the injury this cat carried. It looked infected, holding the cat carefully he looked over at Mafuyu.

"Your highness... Do you want me to carry this feline? Its very dirty-" Mafuyu said, in which Akito's mind quickly felt annoyed at being called dirty he hissed.

"Your family is dirty! Shut up!"  He meowed. But Toya shook his head holding the dirty cat close, he continued walking- Akito hadn't noticed since he closed his eyes thinking he was as good as dead but Toya seemed to have taken an interest in this cat. Even sending Mafuyu to find a medic to check this cat.

Chapter Text

Akito awoke in a soft bed. About to rub his eyes only to be met with a fluffy paw rubbing his face he sighed, about to stretch before realizing he wasn't dead- 

OH THANK THE HEAVENS!

He was internally partying. But who saved him? Was it a maid? Looking around he realized he was being watched by a certain prince... AOYAGI!?

Toya seemed to notice the cat was awake. Reaching out to pet this now fluffy and clean cat. Akito flinched his ears lowering thinking Toya was going to toss him- only to be pet...- it felt strangely nice. The others touch was soft and careful. Not seeming to want to harm this gingerly cat Akitos cat ears raised quickly.

"Your highness. The doctor has said that the cat will have a smooth recovery, just allow the male to rest and he'll be up and playing in no time." Mafuyu said, bowing as she spoke to Toya. Who didn't answer only nodding as he continued to pet the cat. Akito thought the other was glaring at him or something but he tried to ignore it. Sitting still trying to get into Toyas good side allowing the prince to pet him.

Though Toya was petting Akito nicely, Akito felt a chill when Toyas hand touched his whiskers. Hissing he scratched the prince.

Toya stared at him suddenly glaring. His hand bleeding now. Mafuyu immediately went to call over a nurse to tend Toyas wound. Seeing Toya about to leave Akito suddenly felt bad realizing this prince saved him and even gave him a pet. And cleaned him, he meowed jumping off the soft plush bed he was set on to limp after Toya.

Rubbing against his leg as if to say  "Fine fine!- I'm sorry just don't kick me out yet."

Quickly Toya kneeled to continue petting the cat already forgetting about the scratch. When the nurse came, he pet Akito with his left hand instead- as his right hand was tended to.

After a good while Toya finally stood up straight. Picking Akito up carefully as to not touch his wound he put him back on the cat bed. Leaving Mafuyu to look after the cat, seemingly about to set off.

But Akito wasn't exactly fond of Mafuyu... This girl was ever so intelligent, and probably would find Akito out right away. It wasn't like he cared but he wasn't trying to get kicked out before he was healed.

Akito meowed jumping off and trailing after Toya, who turned around surprised to be followed after by the cat. He didn't say anything but continue to try and leave the cat back at the end multiple times before finally understanding that the male ginger cat wanted to come along.

"take me! Am so cute. Anywhere but with this crazy woman..."

Akito meowed, rubbing against his leg. Before being picked up by Toya, who still seemed pretty scary but he wasn't chasing Akito off so that was enough for Akito to get comfortable in the prince's arms.

Toya was deeply touched, petting the ginger cat like crazy as Mafuyu led them both through the castle to Toyas room. Mafuyu stayed outside, Akito peeked from Toyas shoulder snickering as he continued to try and get on Toyas good side rubbing his face against Toyas hand. 

He was surprised this prince was setting him on the large bed and played with him for a good while. He heard that Toya never got attached or cared for anything. That seemed about right because this room was basic and boring. Only holding the essentials and clothes. It was so different from other royal rooms Akito had seen. But yet again Toya wasn't like other Royals who enjoyed a lot of things. He was weird.

"whatever. I just need to keep this up and once am healed up I'll dip and find a way to change right back to my human form!"

"Pretty kitty, where did you come from..." Toya said, holding the cat up looking into the green orbs that felt so familiar but he didn't know where. Maybe he's seen this cat somewhere before...

Akito froze on the spot- THIS MAN COULD TALK!? Every time he saw this prince he never even spoke... And it seemed Mafuyu did all the talking since he didn't even bat an eye at the butler... Akito never heard Toyas voice before- it was cool and calm... He had a pretty damn nice voice... Which caught Akito off guard but quickly he meowed and licked Toyas hand. 

Toya gave a small almost unnoticed smile, he hummed setting the cat on his lap.

"heh, loser. Your so fucking easy to please-"  Akito thought. Laying in the prince's lap like nothing was wrong- FUCK WHY WAS HE ALREADY GETTING SO USED TO BEING A CAT!?

If he ever changed back he would never talk about this encounter... Already laying in Toyas lap like a lap cat...

Chapter Text

Akito laid on a soft plush cat bed, purring as he made biscuits on the plush fabric. Toya was at his desk, staring at the cat who made itself comfortable on a cat bed that Toya had ordered someone to get.

Akito on the other hand was thinking on when he can make his escape, he really didn't want to stick around longer than he had too... That wouldn't be very good since he knew people would be searching for him. 

He couldn't over stay, no matter how comfortable he was!

Mafuyu had left, having gone to deal with something personal or whatever. Not like Akito cared anyway.

Kohane smiled as she came in after softly knocking a couple of times, she was Toyas personal maid. A kind nice girl who had befriended Toya. Though, she couldn't read Toyas expressions as well as Mafuyu. But she was decent enough to be higher in status than other maids.

"Your highness, here is the cat food you asked for." Kohane said, holding two fancy looking bowls. Carefully setting them down in front of the ginger cat that eyed them.

Toya was silent, standing as he took cat food from Kohane hands.

"Is it normal cat food? I've never tried cat food before... I really don't want to, but I have to act like a cat don't I...?" Akito hesitated, but he slowly went towards the bowls. Watching as Toya poured something inside the food bowl

"Holy!- Am being fed like a king!"  Akito's cat jaw dropped, in front of his eyes there seemed to be food specifically cooked for cats- raw salmon, some kibbles on the side. Other kinds of raw meat, this looked to be specifically made for him!

"Your highness Toya! I'll never forget your kindness!"  Akito praised the prince, digging in rather quickly. The kibbles tasted good, probably better then they would've tasted if he was a human. He was already getting comfortable after saying he wouldn't. How easily he was swayed by food?

Toya watched the cat eat. Its reactions of the jaw dropping then digging in made Toya smile. Kohane who caught sight of this praised the cat in her mind.

"His highness never cared for an animal before... This cat must've been sent from the heavens just for his highness! "  Kohane thought. Already praising and holding the cat in high thanks for displaying a kind and rare side of the prince, that she herself had never seen before.

"I'll need to have some toys prepared! Yes! Master cat must be comfortable here." Kohane excused herself, stepping out to leave Toya and the cat alone. Skipping her way out the door, happily talking to passing maids to have new arrangements made.

Toya nodded, waving her off. On his knees as he reached to pet the kitty as it ate. Though he didn't understand what had Kohane in high hopes but he was trying to get on the cats good terms at the moment.

Akito on the other hand who was eating was thinking to himself. Scheming with a grin. "Heh, they're so easy to sway. Thank goodness am such a cute cat! Hehe... Maybe I can get some treats for being good!"

Akito really didn't understand why Kohane seemed to stare him down, thank goodness she left... He really was starting to feel uncomfortable...

Hours later there was a knock at Toyas door. Toya who was writing a letter at his desk with the cat watching him. He stood to answer the door, there was a servant. Staring up at him seemingly nervous but she spoke up after a minute. 

"Your highness, the king wishes to see you in the throne room." She said, bowing as she spoke. She had light silvery hair in braids, Toya just stared her down. Not saying anything, although...

Akito could've swore they both looked awkward and nervous. With a sigh he jumped off the desk and climbed up Toya, who jumped feeling himself being clawed and climbed. It took Akito a good minute before he reached Toyas shoulders. Laying there like a scarf he meowed, the maid noticed him and smiled.

"Your highness, please go quickly. Your not allowed to bring Miss Mafuyu with you. For reasons I myself do not know." Akito felt like his presence made it less awkward, and made Toya look for approachable. The maid bowed once more before setting off. Toya closed the door staring at the cat on his shoulders. Toya gave a small another almost unnoticed smile as he reached to pet the orange cat.

Toya already seemed ready to set off, but before he did... He grabbed Akito setting him on the bed. 

Akito had guessed he was going to be left here during the meeting between Toya and his father. Not like he cared so he was getting ready to lay on the bed- 

Then he felt something being put on his neck- A collar?- A BLUE COLLAR DECORATED WITH GOLD FLOWER PATTERNS OF THE DARK KINGDOM!? WHAT WAS HE AN ANIMAL!?

Well- at the moment yes... But that was beyond the question, he was so confused. Staring at it before trying to take it off, not wanting to be branded as a citizen of the dark kingdom. But Toya stopped him.

"Kitty... Don't take it off..." He said, his voice a whisper as he fixed it on the ginger cat again.

"It looks good... Lets go now." Toya picked him up, setting him in his arms again just holding him.

What the hell...? Why was Toya trying to bring him to meet the king? Was he actually considered Toyas pet cat? This would probably be good if he was planning to stay, but he really didn't want to stay too long. If he tried to escape people who find him would probably return him again and again. This was a problem,

But he'd have to worry later. He was curious what the king wanted to speak to his son about. Plus he was nosy and liked the gossip. So he'd need to just wait and listen.

Chapter Text

Akito purred as he was carried, passing maids and guards on their way to the throne room. Though it seemed like they were surprised to see Toya displaying so much affection to something so openly. 

Toya didn't care about the stares even, letting the cat climb on his shoulders and lick his fingers.

"Your not so bad after all,"  Akito meowed, rubbing his face against Toyas with another purr. Soon enough Toya was opening doors to the throne room. Akito immediately looked around seeing a man with grey hairs and a hard look on the throne. Beside him was A concubine... Who held that evil dog that chased Akito from before!

Akito shuddered, once laying proudly on Toyas shoulders only to now curl into his arms. Shivering at the dog who seemed to eye him. Wanting to bark but it was silent seeing Toya glare down at it.

"Toya... My son- you've brought a cat with you?" Harumichi said, looking surprised as he stared at the ordinary ginger cat. 

Toya nodded, staring down at the cat wanting to hold it out. But it clawed closer to him seeing the dog. Refusing to be apart from the prince Toya held the cat close.

Harumichi looked surprised to see his son cling to something so invaluable. But he almost seemed to forget the reason he called Toya over to the throne room. He had never seen his son look so happy and attached before. About to change the subject to the cat before the noble consort (concubine) spoke

"Your highness... Don't forget about my precious princess... " She cried, holding the small dog in her arms.

Akito wanted to shut the woman up, holding himself back from hissing. 

Harumichi quickly cleared his throat. Speaking and once he was reminded why he wanted to speak to Toya.

"Toya, did you hurt miss Kiri's precious dog?"  Harumichi said, normally he wouldn't have cared. But this was the highest consort he had. Also the same woman who gave birth to a son who would be the next king. 

Toyas gaze darkened as he stared at the woman. Who snickered behind her delicate act of innocence.

Toya didn't answer, since Mafuyu or Kohane weren't here he couldn't speak. He didn't speak at all, not since his mothers death from what Akito heard. 

Harumichi stared, with a wave of his hand paper and writing utensils were brought before Toya along with a wooden surface to write on. Toya set the cat down, only for the cat to jump onto his shoulders and lay there. Watching him write with interest,

Soon he finished, a maid took the paper and delivered it over to Harumichi. Who read the piece of paper with a frown and interest.

"It bit you?" Harumichi said, the consort's face darkened. Realizing her act was about to be ruined by Toyas writing, she spoke.

"My princess would never harm anyone!" She cried, holding the dog that acted and whined pitifully.

Harumichi frowned, looking between the two... He knew Toya would never lie. He never has, his son would only speak the truth. He didn't like lies and wouldn't lie... But has the dog really never attacked anyone?

The consort had her maids bring the butler that was in charge of the dog. The man bowed down as he entered. Obviously he would lie in the consort's favor so Toya was out matched.

As the man spoke, Akito was thinking-

Akito felt pity and annoyance seeing the scene play out, he jumped off Toyas shoulders. Whining at his leg hurting. But he was on a mission at the moment.

He knew the Noble consorts words were A fat lie- why else was the dog trying to chase him before!? Stupid dog almost bit and killed him. He needed to get the king to understand that fat dog wasn't as innocent as it seemed. But how?

Akito rubbed against Toyas leg, for good luck of course! Soon forcing himself to leave the safety of Toyas personal bubble he walked towards the dog. 

The butler spoke, saying how Toya had kicked the dog away. And sent him off too. Harumichi's gaze darkened, had Toya lied to him...?

Akito on the other hand was teasing and trying to provoke the dog. Stupid mutt wasn't used to being treated and provoked it jumped out of its owners arms and tried bitting Akito, Akito grinned happily in his mind. Immediately running off and meowing as if the dog had bitten him, Falling to the ground pitifully.

Toya immediately ran over to protect his beloved cat, the dog jumping and biting him in the process. 

Shit! Akito didn't mean for Toya to get hurt- but with this evidence doesn't that mean that the dog did attack Toya before?

Akito looked around, seeing how maids gasped and guards quickly grabbed the dog who tried to continue biting him.

Harumichi quickly had the dog taken away, the consort's plan on getting Toya out of favor so her son would be guaranteed the throne was out the window! All thanks to a stupid cat!?

Harumichi sent Toya away with the cat to be checked and scolded the noble consorts dog and her. Although Toya wasn't guaranteed the throne- He was Harumichi's and Toyas mothers biological child. He promised his wife before she died that their child would never be harmed under his watch.

He was angry, Akito who had his plan work out better then expected was surprised. But he wasn't complaining. As long as his master wasn't in trouble with his father that was enough for him.

He was just returning the favor... Right? This should even things out.

Chapter Text

Toya walked through the large doors, after having left the throne room the cat was suddenly cured and wasn't harmed anymore.

"Did you do that to help me?..." Toya whispered. Unsure on if the cat could even understand him, but he still felt as if the cat could.

The cat looked up, its bright green eyes blinking slowly before meowing innocently again.

Toya smiled, pushing his thoughts aside as he praised the cat.

"Good kitty..." 

He whispered, leaning down pressing a small peck to the top of the cats head.

"WHAT THE FUCK!? "  Akito hissed. Struggling out of the prince's arms.  "DID HE JUST FUCKING KISS MY HEAD!?"  He cursed, how embarrassing! If Toya knew who he really was he wouldn't have even held him! Much less pecked the top of his head!

Thank goodness no one knows who he is! If Mizuki or Ena ever found this out they'd never let him hear the end of it!

But- Akito almost forgot Toya didn't know who he was at the moment... Toya just thought he was a stray cat. Obviously he'd be different to him, catkito walked around near Toya, exploring the castle. But also suddenly keeping a distance.

Toya smiled having silently laughed seeing the cat want to explore.

Stupid cute smile... Curse him!- wait no- not cute... He ment wicked! He was playing tricks on him!

Stupid wicked evil smile!

Whatever. He doesn't know who he is so he'd have to put up with it for now. At least until he can escape and head back home. He would never be able to fight Toya during war ever again, probably never even see his face again.

Akito didn't know where he was going, after what felt like an hour he was tired. Finally retreating back into Toyas arms.

"Am itchy, scratch my ears! "  He meowed, but Toya didn't understand, simply holding him continuing to walk.

"Hey asshole! Am talking to you!"  He meowed again, trying to lick Toyas fingers then rub them against his ears.

Toya watched before finally granting him what he wanted.

"Alright. Hurry up and take me back to your room. I wanna nap."  And then he forgot why he jumped out of Toyas arms in the first place.

Toyas touch was chilly, but in the summer heat inside the castle it felt nice with Akito's large fur coat it helped cool him.

Watching as the maze of a castle was navigated through by someone who's been living there since forever, he slowly fell asleep. After having put up such an act he was tired, the dog had him shitting bricks when it approached and chased him. He needed a nap, under the sun... 

And with that thought he closed his eyes, feeling safe and warm in Toyas hold. Where it wasn't too hot or too cold. Just right.

Toya stared down at the cat. After finally having reached his room he entered silently, he set the cat down on the cat bed near the window. Before heading to get changed, what a weird cat... But he should've known ginger cats were known to be weird and dumb. 

How funny, this cat had reactions almost close to a human.

Chapter Text

Toya woke up to a meow. when he opened his eyes he saw a paw poking at him, the furry creature that was trying to wake him up... Was slapping him awake...

"Meow.... Meow, meow," 

"What the hell...?"  Toya thought, sitting up watching the cat continue to slap him till he sat up.

Toya held the cat up, by now this cat worked as a clock to wake him up... Why was this cat so weird? It seemed to have a daily routine of waking Toya up, heading to eat breakfast. Then run some laps around the castle or the training ground... Did all cats have a daily to do?...

Or was the cat mimicking what Toya did?

"Do cats mimic their masters...?" 

Toya was lost staring at the cat who jumped off the bed with a stretch, Toyas gaze landed on the bandages on the cats hind leg. It seemed to have healed quicker then expected... He should probably take the cat to get checked by the royal medic later.

With a final stretch Toya got up, the cat trailing after him moving to enter the closet. Even bothering to take a shirt off a hanger with a bit of struggle before Toya helped him. And pick out a pair of pants for Toya.

"Should I just wear this today...?"  Toya pondered, but like usual he didn't question the cat. Thinking it was normal for cats to be this smart. Kohane had said animals were pretty smart and learned quickly... That must be what's happening with his cat. It must've learned his daily to do after spending a good 2 weeks with him.

Soon after he finished grabbing the clothes about to head to the bathroom, but before he went he picked the cat up letting it roam on the top shelves where Kohane had set some bows and collars for the cat. 

Toya headed to the bathroom to brush his teeth and freshen up. When he finished showering and put on his clothes and brushing his teeth he stepped out to the cat waiting outside the bathroom holding a dark blue bow matching Toyas shirt.

Toya crouched down to put the bow around the cats neck, as soon as that was done the cat went to scratch at the door to set out to breakfast.

"Let me put on my shoes kitty..." Toya was barely finishing putting on his shoes, this cat moved way to fast and efficiently...

When he opened the door these cat was already dashing out the door leading the way and prancing like it owned the place.

"Did it already memorize the way to the dining hall...?"

"Well with this cat's size it isn't surprising that he knows it by heart now..." 

Toya felt like something was truly wrong with this cat. It was almost too human like, picking out the clothes. Making its way around the castle prancing around like it was normal and it even bossed Toya around sometimes.

Was it because Toya was too laid back with this cat? Did he have to set his foot down like it was a human child?...

"Maybe I've been too nice..." 

He thought, sitting down and opening the can of Tuna for the cat. 

After breakfast the cat was already leading Toya back to the training grounds. Even pathetically dragging the training sword before giving up and meowing at it. Hissing and slapping it when it wouldn't move an inch.

"Maybe am over thinking these things..."  Toya bent to grab the sword. Starting his training as the cat ran  20 laps around the training grounds like a drill.

By the middle of the day the cat was licking at a water fountain nearby that was suppose to be for birds. Having become the cats own fountain for when it was thirsty.

When Toya set his training sword back onto the sword room ment to hold dummies and swords, when he came back out the cat was stretching looking like it was doing yoga, even jumping and knocking back dummies like it was training itself. When it spot Toya it suddenly lacked power in its jumps and kicks and was back to being a delicate feline.

"I should probably ask Kohane if this is normal cat behavior... "  Toya finally came to a conclusion that this stuff wasn't exactly normal. But he did know that cats learned from behavior of others and what it grew up around. So maybe it was training like him? But that seemed impossible since it didn't feel like that was normal at all! Sure the cat had been here for A while but it wasn't a kitten when Toya found it! 

Toya trailed behind the cat, it seemed about ready to go to the dining hall. Even licking its lips, but when it saw Toya turning into a different corner it bit down on the edge of his pants and tried to drag him over to the dining hall instead! Almost throwing a tantrum when Toya refused to go to the dining hall.

Was it because the cat knew Today was Sunday and it was treat day...?

"Lets go the the royal medic first... I think its about time he took off your bandages..." Toya said, watching the cat look back at its hind leg like it understood. Letting go of Toyas pant leg, then continued trailing after Toya.

Once that was done and Toya continued to the medic, he was sure this cat was just spoiled and pampered too much. Even daring to throw a tantrum in front of Toya! Not even children dared to do that!

Toya didn't scold the cat even picking it up and scratching it to make it happy again.

After the medic gave the all clear and took off the bandages , he immediately scurried over to the dining hall for lunch. Although he wasn't that hungry and ate only half of his plate, the cat clawed and hissed almost acting as if it was scolding him for wasting food!

"Maybe I should set my foot down... This cat is already scolding me! When am the owner!"  Toya didn't sit back down, grabbing the cat by its neck he was about to scold the cat. Then seeing its big eyes look almost tearful like a humans eyes, and the cats ears lowered making hell it look smaller than it truly was. Meowing sadly as it stared up at Toya. He sat his sorry ass back down and finished his food. Even dropping a small tiny piece of meat down for the cat.

"Let me sit my sorry ass back down... That was so uncalled for..." 

In the end the cat and the prince finished their day in the library then set back to the room. With the cat taking off its bow and Toya took another bath and changed into his night clothes. He slept having forgotten to ask Kohane about the cats antics...

And in the end he never set his foot down.

Chapter Text

Kohane was walking towards Toyas chambers. She saw the way the cat had always licked and meowed at the cheesecake Toya ate. But Toya had to explain and apologize to the cat again and again on why he can't give it to the cat.

The cat threw itself to the ground rolling around pitifully holding onto its head.

Well, today Kohane wanted to surprise Mr. Kitty with a special cheesecake made for cats like itself! + with other desserts but the main dish was cheesecake.

She had a lot of thought and practice put into this cheesecake. Hopefully Mr. Kitty likes it. With the fact it always likes to sit down next to Toya and eat at the actual dining table. How cute! She would paint a portrait of Mr. Kitty eating at the dining hall next to her best friend (Toya) one of these days!

She really was excited, skipping and humming as she made her way to the dining hall, having caught up to Toya and the said cat after training.

"Hello your highness. And Mr. Kitty!" She waved at the two, the cat meowed in return. Toya nodding to show he noticed her, she followed the two inside. This cat was plump... but every time after visiting the training grounds it seemed to lose weight and get stronger... She really needed this cats workout session. She wished it was as easy to care for oneself like how this cat managed to do so...

The cat once again meowed trying to get Toya to set down cheesecake. Toya watched with cold eyes. But the cat didn't seem to care. Even trying to climb into his lap and lick at his face to try and get the leftovers of the sweet desserts. But he wasn't able to with Toya setting him back down on the ground.

"Mr. Kitty! Please have a seat! I have a special desert just for you!"

Kohane called setting the box at the cats seat at the table.

"Meow?" 

"I have a gift for you! Come come! Sit!"

The cat immediately jumped onto its special seat. Looking ever so fluffy that it was so adorable Kohane let out a squeak.

"Mr. Kitty I hope you like it! I made it specifically for you!" She said, bowing to the cat stupidly like it was an actual royal. But she wasn't embarrassed, holding her breath as she set the plate with desserts for cats in front of Mr. Kitty.

She put her whole break time and heart into it! She could only hope for the best!

"Please enjoy Mr. Kitty!"

She held her breath. Watching as the cat licked and bit the main dish. Purring as it chopped down, Toya watched from the side holding his fork, staring before continuing to eat.

When Kohane saw her mission was A success she internally cried and let out a breath of relief, wanting to fall to the ground since she had been practicing for the past 2 weeks the cat has stayed over. 

When the cat and Toya finished it meowed rubbing against Kohanes leg purring.

"So worth it!"  She thought, crouching down to pet the cat then starting to clean up the table. Watching as Mr. Kitty and the prince walked off.

"Mr. Kitty really does make his highness more approachable... I hope his highness isn't as lonely anymore now that Mr. Kitty is here."

She turned heading and disappearing behind doors.

Akito meowed at Toya sticking his flap tongue out circling around the prince. As Toya chuckled silently crouched down and poked at the tongue with a laugh.

"Its peaceful here... The prince isn't so bad after all.." 

Akito thought climbing back onto the prince's shoulders and laying there as a scarf again.

Chapter Text

Akito meowed, having been licking himself clean after falling into a puddle after it rained in the training grounds.

"Am getting way too used to acting as a cat..."  He thought, trying to clean himself to the best of his abilities. Toya was drying his own hair after a shower, staring at the cat who was full on dripping of dirt and water.

Toya exited the room after a while. Akito was surprised watching the other finally leave him alone.

"About time... I need to go try and find something to turn me human..."  He went to exit the room, seeing how Toya left the door a crack open. But immediately he was picked up by Kohane who had blocked his path on leaving the room... Having on gloves and carried a bag of shampoo...

"Your highness, would you like me to help you wash Mr. Kitty now or more later?" Kohane said, smiling over at the prince who entered the room again.

Nodding as he went to go start the bath.

"A SHOWER!? YOU WANT TO DIP ME INTO WATER!?"  Akito immediately clawed and hissed, jumping out of the maids arms almost scratching her face.

"Mr. Kitty! What are you doing!?" She yelled, almost falling over trying to catch the cat in her arms. But the cat didn't settle. Trying to run out clawing at the door.

There was a loud crash that immediately had Toya run out of the bathroom, seeing the cat having had knocked Kohane over a plant from the desk he tried jumping to catch the cat.

Catkito only jumped out of his grasp, continuing to run around the room like a maniac. The prince and maid struggled to catch this slick cat. Having been tripping each other and running into each other like crazy the entire time.

The door to the room opened, revealing a curious Mafuyu who had heard a commotion and had come to check on his highness. Immediately frozen in shock seeing Kohane toppled over herself and a Toya who was trying to grab the cat that clawed onto the bedsheets.

Toyas grasp slipped freeing the ginger cat who dashed out from between Mafuyu's legs.

"AFTER HIM." Mafuyu screamed. Having read Toyas face immediately guards and maids were chasing the dirty cat like crazy.

Akito could hear Mafuyu apologizing for opening the door and letting the cat get out. But Kohane reassured her having told the other two to focus on getting the cat.

Akito dashed around the castles halls, it was a maze to him since he had only been to the training grounds, the dining hall, the royal medic, and back to Toyas room. He was excited to explore the castle deeper.

Akito dashed into a random room that was a creak open. Toya looked around about to enter the said room, but he continued running further down the hall thinking the cat had went down the hall instead.

Akito looked around the dark room, there was a large book self of books, and some potions.

"This must be the alchemists potion room or something..."  With that thought Akito's tail swayed happily. Finally having having found a potion room that might be able to help his situation.

He jumped onto the desk, smelling and sniffing potions. Grabbing the color he could remember was fed to him.

Technically this sounded dumb at first, but if he could remake the potion he was forced to take he would be able to make a reverse potion. Having learned to make a reverse potion after Tsukasa had lost his memories from a potion he got thrown at him.

All he had to do was mix the two together afterwards. After all, he couldn't stay here no matter how important he is to the prince... 

Besides, his sister needs him. No matter how much they fought and argued and hit each other. He knew she missed him just as much as he missed her.

Akito was dragging the potions around, pushing them from the high desk into a bowl on the ground that he found and rinsed with a nearby sink.

After he mixed the colors together to get the one he needed, he hesitated. He didn't know if this was the right color since he didn't get the best glance at the potion before he was knocked out cold... But he knew this was his only shot at making it. So he began making the reverse potion, while also keeping watch to make sure no one had found where he was yet.

Once he was done for the last time. He pushed the reverse potion into the bowl. Watching the colors mix, jumping off the large desk he sniffed the bowl on the ground. 

It smelled... Questionable... But he knew this was his only shot.

"Its now or never..."  Closing his eyes he licked at the bowl. Not stopping until he felt a weird sensation now he felt dizzy and almost fell over.

"did I get the potion wrong...?"  Akito thought, almost falling over. Blinking before seeing human hands on the ground.

"Huh?...-"  He blinked multiple times, before realizing he was still in the clothes he was in from before he was a cat. But it seemed from when he was a cat if he got dirty he was dirty in human form as well.

Jumping up almost falling over again since he was so used to being on all fours again.

"I- I did it!" He exclaimed. Immediately covering his mouth to not yell too loud from joy.

He was about to walk out, before he heard foot steps nearing. Immediately he went to peak out of the small crack in the door.

"Mr. Kitty couldn't have gone very far..." Kohane said, trying to reassure Toya who looked ever so worried.

Mafuyu trailed behind them. Looking stuck in contemplation before immediately glaring over into the room Akito was peeking at them from.

"FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK!"  Akito jumped, back immediately looking for where to hide. Scurrying around silently, trying to not knock over anything but he still made quite the noise.

The trio heard the said noise, immediately walking over almost too fast for Akito's own liking to check what was making the clunking of bottles. 

In Akito's mind he imagined how much easier it would be if he was a cat again. Thinking how easily he could pass by.

Suddenly when he opened his eyes again everything was large and big.

He was a cat again?- and just as Mafuyu had entered and spotted him on the ground.

She grabbed him tightly not letting him escape her iron hold.

"I've found him." She said, immediately showing the worried prince. Who's eyes widened and he hummed wanting to hold the cat. Even if it was dirty.

Akito on the other hand was trying to understand what was going on. Realizing he could easily transform back and forth from between a cat and human... That means he didn't make the reverse potion as accurately as he thought...

But at the moment that didn't matter, as long as he could keep up this disguise and not be held captive...

Chapter Text

Akito was hissing and twisting in Mafuyu's arms. Toya filled the tub with nice warm but not too warm. and Kohane was helping Toya set up a small bath in the corner of the large tub. A mini version of Toyas that seemed to yet again be made for his beloved cat.

That was scratching and attacking Mafuyu. But no matter how much she was scratched or how hard he kicked her she wouldn't let go.

Her grip on the cats fur on the neck was firm, not even flinching.

Staring down at the said cat that was getting pretty damn pissed.

Once Kohane set the basket down, she left. How strange?  Was she not gonna help Toya shower the cat?

Mafuyu put the cat on a leash, tying it to a towel hanger before she exited the bathroom. Closing the door shut.

Akito turned to look at Toya, who sighed staring down at the cat.

Somehow- Toya seemed dirty. His hair had dirt and his clothes were A mess... Probably from when he was trying to catch Akito and he slipped and fell into the dirt from the broken plant. He was also wet and since his hair hadn't finished drying it held a lot of dirt that clung onto it.

"Your so big but also so hard to catch..." Toya said, taking off his shirt staring down at the cat.

Akito was officially offended, feeling himself grow a bit warm seeing the other take off his shirt.

"Your so fat... How did we struggle to catch you?" He asked, grabbing the frozen cat and putting it in the mini tub in the corner.

Akito cursed the prince inside his mind. How dare he call him fat!? He was well built thank you very much! And it was his fault and pampering him anyway!? So who's fault was it really!?

"ANNOYING FUCKING PRINCE!-" About to meow and hiss before realizing where he was being put. Then he saw Toya start to take off the rest of his clothes. Suddenly his mouth went dry and he wouldn't turn back to face the human.

Akito on the stumbled inside the mini bath. He couldn't watch the other get naked! He wasn't gay!- he was about 90% sure on that!- Plus that was also really weird to watch someone get naked... And very disrespectful.

Toya didn't know Akito was human, so he didn't see the problem with undressing in front of the cat.

Akito had a different view on the matter... His furry face stuck facing the wall wanting to crawl into a hole and die. Until he felt a small splash.

Toya had climbed in, grabbing something rubbing it into his palms. Then reaching for the cat taking off the leash it had on. And carefully rubbing it into the cat fur. Not daring to water the cats face.

"Lets get you cleaned up quickly." Toya said, massaging the shampoo into the cats fur skillfully. 

Akito was a lump of wet fur in the others hands, purring as he felt the warm water hit him.

Oh how he missed bathing in a nice warm bath and sitting there extra long just enjoying the warm water... Why was he fighting against going into the water again? 

Maybe it was his cat instincts to avoid water. Or maybe he thought it was gonna be ice cold water.

When Toya was done he rinsed the cat off carefully, then grabbed a nearby cloth to dry the cat. 

"Alright... Your free to go now." Toya said, knowing the cat knew how to open doors. But the cat jumped back in the tub, splashing the prince who was trying to wash his own hair.

Toya stared at the cat. Glaring down at the furry feline. But the cat only continued making splashes.

Toya chuckled, starting to play around with the cat splashing it back, carefully.

They played like this for hours, until Toya finished cleaning himself. Dried himself off, and emptied the small and big tub. He helped the cat dry off before heading to put on his clothes walking towards the closet.

Akito jumped onto his own cat bed, trying to tug it over to be under the sun so he could dry better and sun bathe.

Then he got on and fell asleep. The last thing he saw was Toya heading out after changing into his usual knight like uniform.

Chapter Text

When Akito woke up again he still saw Toya hadn't come back. With a stretch Akito yawned, and with a small-

*POOF!*

Akito was human again. The only problem was that his clothes were messed up and his pants had a hole from where he got an arrow stuck in it.

"Whatever. Not like it matters when I have A whole fashioned wardrobe!" Akitos eyes practically sparked with excitement staring into the prince's personally extremely large wardrobe- in Akito's mind at least... It was definitely bigger than the one An had!

And Toya didn't even bat an eye at any of it! He only wore the same thing again and again, even having gotten duplicates. He didn't even step in any further than about 7 steps max... 

To be fair Akito was dressing Toya up when he was dragging the clothes to Toya because he couldn't dress himself up. And when he was in his cat form he had explored Toyas closet so many times out of boredom only to find something new every time he went deeper!

Toya definitely could use some help on not wearing the same thing again and again... Such a waste, such a waste.

And now he could finally wear and use everything he thought looked good!

"If he won't make use of these clothes someone else should appreciate it for him! Hehe~ fuck I've hung out with Mizuki way to fucking much...-"

Akito got lost so quickly in the closet. Trying on multiple different pairing of clothes styling himself in ways he'd never have imagined!

There's no way he'd ever be able to get his hands on any of these suits! Head knight or not he wouldn't get anywhere close to these. 

The silk the fabric, the accessories!? 

All still so clean and unused!

royalty truly has its perks in fashion.

How could the prince not ever use them!? Truly what a huge waste!

Akito suddenly felt a bit lonely, remembering how he'd go shopping with Ena and Mizuki. Having helped them mix the clothes and try it all on... Gosh he felt sad instantly! But he knew Mizuki and Ena would've slapped him and started throwing clothes on him.

Ena would've scolded him and told him to get his head out of his ass, she always wanted to buy something as nice as this for Akito. He knew she had saved up for his 20th birthday to get him a suit tailed personally so he could attend the ball An invited him to go to. He couldn't let this opportunity pass. No way. 

Ena always wanted to get Akito something as precious as the expensive paints and canvas that he would save up for and buy for her.

Akito grabbed clothes, treating it as a dressing room holding the clothes on top of one arm to dress himself up once he was done looking.

Although he did feel a bit guilty for borrowing some clothes without the prince knowing... He really wanted to try on everything he could fit on himself...

"Please excuse me your highness!"  He thought to himself as he continuing to look around.

Akito wondered on why Toya had so many. But since the other never showed what he liked and was always cold. It made sense so many people would gift clothes. Since no one knew what he liked, they must've gone far and wide to get him so many different kinds to make each set special...

Makes sense, whenever Akito's just getting to know someone or something he'd just gift them a nice piece of clothes for their birthday...- enough about that. He has so much more to explore just a few steps away!

But Akito couldn't dare stay so close to the closets entrance. He wanted to dig deeper, since before he didn't have hands it was quite a struggle to move past everything since things would fall on him if he wasn't careful. But now as a human he could move it easily. And there must be some better treasures for him to try on!~

Akito walked and looked with a purpose. His gaze sinking deeper getting lost in the fabric and shoes he accidentally found a door hidden behind suits that acted as curtains to cover it.

Akito gasped out loud having opened a door hidden behind fancy ballroom suits only to find a secret armoury full of obviously expensive and enchanted swords! Each in their very own case sorted personally in rows and sections.

What a spoiled sweet prince! Toya never even flaunted these!? What a grounded prince!

Akito didn't dare touch anything. But he sure as hell stared, his eyes glued to each and every piece.

By the time he was done fitting and trying on the clothes and inspecting the secret armoury about 4 hours had already passed.

He even changed and put on a nice plain white shirt and black pants. He looked decently dressed this sleeves pulled back a bit so he didn't look so small in the clothes.

And the prince wasn't back yet...

How strange, Toya never left Akito alone for THAT long. He never even dared to leave him alone for over 30 minutes. But Toya didn't take Akito with him to wherever he was going either, must've been somewhere important...

Speaking of important, After seeing everything Toya had and didn't use. Akito realized Toya genuinely seemed to spoil him quite a bit... Akito wanted to gift something in exchange, But when he looked at his belongings- they all were gifted to him. By the prince he wants to get something for!

What the fuck was he suppose to do?... If he was a normal cat he really didn't need to matter. But he felt bad with how expensive everything was. Toya seemed to be able to tell Akito loved gold. Even making the structure of his cat bed gold. The cat bowls he ate and drank from were decorated with gold flowers and silver butterflies.

His toys had some gold, his bows always had golden flowers and what not...

Damn himself for being so expensive and complicated to please, he really had nothing of personal value that could ever pay back Toyas quick and careful care. He didn't even have a sword worth half of it!- much less did he have gold bars...

It wasn't like Akito didn't ever not think of giving Toya something in return. He always had after he saved his life from the evil dog! 

He didn't want to feel like he owed the other anything. He didn't want this to forever poke him in the ass.

So he grabbed a cat bow from his own mini bow closet, turned into a cat and slipped it on. Tying it a bit tighter around his neck with his teeth before exiting the closet.

Operation gifting something to the prince is in move!- fuck that was cringy and something stupid Tsukasa did!-

Whatever whatever! Now's not the time yet. He really didn't know what he could get the prince. He had looked around multiple times before, but Toya already took such good care of the things he did have in his room that it all looked brand new...

Akito at least knew Toya enjoyed reading, he always read when he was in bed petting Akito- or when he was on his desk he would occasionally pet Akito and grab a treat from inside the drawer and drop it down for him.

Akito jumped onto the bookshelf in the room, looking for the latest book Toya was reading. He had heard Toya say something about needing to get the next book. Having been left on an obvious cliff hanger.

Akito mentally noted the books name in his mind. Then jumped down and turned human, then grabbed a piece of paper. And wrote the books name down on it.

"I'll have my cute cat form carry this in its mouth and hold a bag of coins. This way I can buy the second volume and maybe get a discount. Since am such a cutie."  Akito went to look in his old ragged clothes he wore before. He found his small money pouch he always carried on him. Though it wasn't much it was enough to buy something as a souvenir. He usually carried the bag on him for when he had to escort An out to visit other kingdoms he would buy his sister a small something as a small gift.

Now the money was coming in handy! Plus it was good since books weren't expensive anyway.

Akito transformed into a cat, holding the note and coin bag in his mouth he jumped opening the door first try. 

He peeked around making sure no one saw him before running out of the room kicking the door closed shut then continuing to walk.

He had to make sure he didn't run into Mafuyu. She would toss him back without question, and he had to make sure he didn't run into anyone that could stop his mission.

Somehow he made it out pretty quickly, his paws stepping on grass that tickled him a little. He suddenly remembered that he had wrecked the market the last time he was out and about in this kingdom.

Hopefully no one realized this was the same cat.

Akito knew no one got a good look at him since he ran so fast. Maybe?...

His coat of orange fur had a long yellow stripe on the top of his head down to the edge of his tail. A bit unusual but Akito kinda liked being unique, at least no cat could intimidate him.

By the time Akito finally came down from the clouds, he found he was already at the market. It was just as lively as he saw it the last time he was present.

He strutted around people cooing and trying to pet and catch his attention, but he didn't care. If they weren't Toya he didn't bat an eye.

He just walked until he found a bookshop a kind passerby opened it seeing the cat try to do so and fail.

He nodded at this person in appreciation, his mind set on getting the 2nd volume.

When the shop keeper saw the door open they rushed to ask if the customer needed assistance. Only to find a well kept cat holding a piece of paper and a coin bag.

Akito set the note and bag down staring up at the owner of the store. When they finished reading they stared at the cat inspecting it. Seeing nothing was wrong they shrugged, but kept an eye on the cat as they set to go grab the 2nd book.

Akito followed the shop keeper, watching as they took the right amount of coins. Feeling as though the cat would know if they took too many...

Akito had the owner put the bag down with the ginger cat letting the cat pick it up into its mouth very obviously struggling but the cat refused to have any help growling when the shop keeper tried to hold the bag again. Having somehow managed to hold the bag high enough to not drag it so much.

And just as quickly as Akito had entered he was setting back to the castle! Man what a day. And it was so easy to grab something for his owner, don't people question mysterious cats around these lands?

Chapter Text

Akito happily walked back as a cat, since his bow displayed his status it definitely helped him get by much quicker than if he would've been a human.

Akito didn't think he had spent too much time outside of the castle. But seeing the sun set proved him wrong, it was already turning so late. And as the shadows grew longer and the cat grew worried thinking about what would happen if his prince got back and saw his cat wasn't there.

Would he be worried?

Would he send a search party?

That was no doubt in that option, last time he even ran out of Toyas room unannounced to escape bath time he had Kohane and Mafuyu help him find Akito.

He turned a corner slipping back into the castle, excited to surprise the prince with such a gift. He didn't want to feel like he owed the other anything anyway.

He wanted to say he could just imagine the look on Toyas face, but he really couldn't. He couldn't read the others face so that was a big lie.

Though it genuinely sucked since he could transform between a cat and human he might as well be granted mind reminding while he's at it. But that was just his opinion.

Akito walked down the hall, entered the room and went to hide the bag under Toyas bed, crawling underneath as he dragged it with him.

"There! I'll keep it here until I find the perfect time to give this to him."  He thought, just having finished putting the bag away before seeing the door creak open further. Large enough to fit a human- 

Akito squinted his eyes, it was obvious this wasn't a male- Seeing as how this person had on feminine and revealing clothes it was pretty obvious.

But this was still strange! Akito heard Toya never had any partners or maidens. That much was obvious to Akito with how much Toya talks to him.

The lonely ass prince spoke to a cat all the time, it really would be a wonder if Toya scored someone who could handle always having everything translated by Mafuyu.

But back to the problem at hand-

If it wasn't Kohane then who the hell was this!? No one other than Kohane and Mafuyu entered this said room! No one else was permitted to enter!

Akito's ears fell flat against his head, feeling the bed creak on top of himself. he really thought it was a man instead of a woman with how loud it was...

He peeked out of the bed, slowly moving to hide behind a bedside table. He watched as the woman got comfortable and laid patiently on the bed.

Was this someone trying to seduce Toya?... 

It wasn't uncommon for maids or servants to want and try to score something with royalty. But the ones who wanted the throne usually were the ones who offered to climb into bed. This worked to seduce the other party member and score the treasure the servant/maid so desired. 

Akito felt a bit grossed out, he didn't want to be here during anything like that. But he could see the woman sneaking something under the pillow.

A knife.

Fuck was this an assassin instead!? What if she actually managed to seduce Toya and killed him!?

No way! Akito couldn't bare to let that happen!- that was his master that he had barely started getting to know. He couldn't dare to sit back and let this pass!

Immediately he snuck around and stood on his hind legs. The woman's back turned to him as she looked towards the door waiting for her target.

Akito took this chance to reach for the knife. Slowly and carefully he dragged it out from under the pillow.

About to hide it under the bed, when he heard footsteps entering the room.

He saw Toya and Mafuyu enter, immediately Mafuyu had a grip on the sword ready to pounce on the woman in the bed.

"Who are you-"

Toya stopped her with a hand motion, his eyes narrowing. And Mafuyu immediately stood back.

The woman was on edge seeing Mafuyu, but when she realized Toya was protecting her she giggled seductively.

"Am no one special... But I could be if your prince wants me too~"

She said, watching as Toya stepped closer to the bed.

The assassin immediately tried to reach for the knife seeing the prince come near. But she couldn't find it, instead she touched the mattress and gasped, Akito had already dragged the knife down to the ground with a clank.

Toya pounced wielding his sword and sliced her neck quick enough to make her struggle to process what had happened. Her eyes wide as she stared at the prince in shock.

Akito froze up, watching blood spill over Toyas face and dark prince uniform. His face cold as he threw the woman off the bed, her limp form tossed like trash as Toya put his sword back in its sheath with a clank.

Akito stared at the other, his heart pounding in his ears. Would that be him next if Toya saw him...? Would Toya kill him if he turned human and Toya didn't know he was the same cat he treasured?

Suddenly Akito felt anxious and scared around his owner.

Toya who had just noticed the cat tried reaching to pet him. But the cat jumped away, and even hid underneath the bed- thinking about the dead body scared the trembling cat and he had Mafuyu order for the body to be cleaned quickly.

Once that was done and Toya took a shower and changed clothes, he went to look for the cat under the bed again, the cat was a loaf as it trembled looking ever so fragile despite being so long but stubby.

Now Toya tried again to pet the cat.

Akito had seen others die and even killed. This wasn't new to him, but seeing how Toya killed without hesitation was so surprising... So- scary, it was like he didn't even get to process before Toya jumped.

He was terrified if he accidentally turned human and Toya came back and killed him on sight. And then he would find out his beloved cat was suddenly missing? Would he send a search party? Would he die knowing his cat was never found?

That sure as hell wasn't something he wanted.

Toya looked like a sad puppy realizing he still wasn't able to pet the cat. Even grabbing out the expensive treats and holding some in his palm.

By now Akito calmed down, thinking how it wasn't something he should worry about. Especially the sad Toya who cried for his cat.

Akito slowly climbed out into Toyas arms, eating the treats allowing the human to pet him.

Toya immediately grew happy again, wanting to hold the cat tightly so it wouldn't hide away again. But he dared not to so he wouldn't force the cat to want to flee.

Akito suddenly remembered his gift, he jumped out of Toyas arms and climbed back under the bed.

Toya on the other hand thought he was too rough without meaning to. Staring down at his hands cursing himself for not being softer.

Akito dragged the bag out, setting it in front of his owner with a meow. Expecting him to look inside.

"For me...?" Toya Asked, Mafuyu left awhile ago anyways.

"YES FOR YOU DUMBASS."  Akito meowed, watching as Toya opened the bag.

Toya stared at the cat for a while, before finally saying what he wanted to.

"You didn't steal this did you..?-" 

Akito immediately shook his head no, feeling offended that the other thought of him so low.

Toya sighed with relief as he reached out to pet the cat.

"Thank you, it's very nice... But to be honest I expected a mice from you." 

FUCK that was genius! Cats bring mice or tiny insects! Not actual gifts! That was nothing normal! Not even close!

Akito jumped onto Toyas bed taking half of it over even though he had a nice sun bed next to a window. But Toya didn't mind, he climbed in and began reading. Starting to pet the cat again like usual.

This was nice, if only this would be forever...

Chapter Text

By now Akito had been here a good 12 weeks. Nothing too long or short right? 

Well true, but Akito wanted to turn human again. He was getting pretty bored as a cat. And Toya didn't give him the space or even time to do so! Especially after the assassination attempt. 

Toya doesn't dare leave him alone at all anymore. Seemingly scared that his dumb buff ginger cat would be stolen and killed if he did.

Akito meowed as he was carried in a magical bubble casted by Toya. Akito sighed watching Toya from above in his bubble.

Reading... Again?

How boring. He was glad his master liked the book, but it would be really nice if this man did something else for once.

Akito would sometimes turn human during his time alone, but lately since Toyas been keeping an extra eye on him... That was fucking impossible.

He couldn't even shit without being watched! He was embarrassed to poop in the litter box now. Before he was finally getting used to using a litter box. And licking himself clean, but now when he was being watched...

Ugh that was HELL being watched by a maid or something.

"Listen your highness... I care for you whatever whatever, yada yada. BUT GO ON A WALK. DO SOMETHING PRODUCTIVE!" Akito finally couldn't take it anymore. "AND STOP WATCHING ME SHIT." Akito hissed, breaking out of the bubble innocently as he bounced off the bed scrambling out of the room.

"!" As usual Toya didn't say much of anything. His eyes widened watching his fat (The cat wasn't fat surprisingly. He was just fluffy.) Obese looking cat, jump off the bed and actually manage to somehow run.

"I didn't think he could still manage that..."  Toya thought, immediately tossing his book to the side to chase the cat.

Akito scurried down the hallway, taking turns heading to the garden. The only reason he knew where it was- was because he and Toya always passed a beautiful flower field when heading to the training grounds.

But Toya never took him on a walk or whatever the hell owners do with their pets. So Akito would just have to take the matter into his own two paws! No biggie. (No you ARE THE biggie.)

Akito wanted to have Toya go on a walk with him. So first he needs his slow ass owner to hurry the hell up and get here.

Almost as if on cue a worried Toya popped up, immediately Akito hid in the flower field. Toya walked closer trying to find his cat, since he couldn't see the cat he was about to walk up ahead-

*JUMP!*

Akito pounced, his cat eyes big black balls as he jumped around in the flower field. Genuinely having fun as he sniffed and jumped onto a new slab upon the walkway.

When Toya saw his fluffy cat going along a path and jumping around cutely his heart softened. Quickly jogging over with a straight face. But his eyes screamed enjoyment.

Akito was lost in his excitement to finally be out of the room. Meowing as he patted a nearby butterfly bullying it into flying away.

"Wait no- come back, WHO SAID YOU COULD GO!?"  He meowed jumping to try and catch the butterfly only to fall back down.

Toya immediately ran to catch his cat with a small smile.

"Lets go on a quick walk, shall we?" He whispered, the cat with big eyes blinked then meowed happily almost as if agreeing.

Akito stayed in Toyas strong arms. Having jumped around too much that his cute pink paws got dirty.

He preferred them to be pink, so he'd just need to let his human do the walking.

"Its no wonder cats think their all high and mighty. I have the damn dark kingdoms prince carrying me during the walk like its normal. What a flex."

He snuggled closer to the prince's cold touch, perfectly cutting out the heat making it bare able to not make Akito so hot.

Although he had cat like abilities. And actions, he was still technically human. So he wasn't as heat resistant as other felines.

Whatever, not like he cared anyway. But that would've been nice...

Toya walked his cat towards a large round gazebo, that was surrounded by large and high perfectly cut hedges setting the cat down on a chair near a table for small talk and tea + cookies.

Toya pet the cat, deciding to have a snack break before heading back to the room.

He leaned down to whisper to the cat.

"I'll be back, am going to bring a snack for you and me..." He said, before standing up straight and walking off to find Kohane to get a good cat snack for his pet.

Akito watched and made sure the prince was gone. Before finally turning back into a human.

Wearing a new pair of clean clothes, A plain button up dark blue shirt and some black pants. His shoes a black, he had to borrow Toyas clothes that were A little to tall but it was whatever. He rolled the sleeves up to his upper arm, and rolled the pants up just a bit.

His hair was messy but he didn't bother to fix it up,

It'd be ruined when he transformed again anyway. It was only a matter of time.

Akito sat down enjoying the nice warm weather stretching underneath the shade. He signed with relief.

"About time I got to be myself again. I could go for some human food for sure."

Akito already saw some cookies already set inside a small basket. He looked around, seeing there was no one he took one and plopped it in his mouth.

He held the large basket in one arm, they might've been at least a day old, but he didn't care. He could eat anything after eating kibbles for 12 weeks!

It was amazing to taste something sweet immediately after he transformed back.

"Fuck, I could go for some pancakes..." He muttered, plopping another cookie in his mouth.

He heard footsteps suddenly, and he turned quickly-

Chapter Text

Toya stared at him, eyes wide having expected to see his cat- not Shinonome.

Akito coughed immediately standing up.

Toyas eyes zoomed around looking for his cat. Seeing the basket in Shinonomes grasp he dropped the plate. Running towards the ginger full sprint pouncing on him.

Akito yelled, having been thrown off the chair while the prince was on top of him.

Fuck he was careless! He almost forgot he wasn't in the light kingdom!

Toya pinned the ginger down, Akito struggled. He genuinely was struggling under this man's grasp. He could feel Toyas free hand choking him.

Toyas eyes were glued to the basket though, and Akito could see the way he wanted to snatch the basket out of his grasp and open it to hopefully find his beloved fluffy fatass eating cat.

But unlike Toya, Akito knew he was the same one underneath Toya. And Toya was choking this cat to death.

Fuck- he couldn't hold on much longer this way.

"Please excuse me your highness-"  Akito thought, slipping his hand out of Toyas grasp. And landing a swift punch to his face.

Toya was in shock, not having expected that. He was shoved off, and Akito immediately scrambled to his feet. And jumped over the gazebos fence heading further into the garden. Toya watched as the ginger ran, immediately he gave chase.

In his mind this knight from the light kingdom had not only broken in, punched him. But took his fucking cat.

Toya watched as they came to the open garden, passing guards immediately spotted their prince giving chase to a ginger. and they sprang into action.

Akito jumped and climbed up a tree, still carrying the basket. He was starved, wanting to keep eating but he couldn't. 

He jumped off the tree to get past the other side of the hedges, with a grunt and a curse of pain he was up and running into the forest, Toya snapped. 

"..." With a deathly glare he walked up snatched a sword from the nearest guard and climbed up the same tree and jumped off. The guards were worried telling their prince to let them do the work and to sit back and wait.

Toya didn't care, he wanted his fat cat back now. Stupid guards would probably let the knight escape. And he couldn't bare to let such a valuable cat get stoked by the enemy kingdom, as soon as he got his hands on Shinonome he swears he would kill this man for even thinking about taking something so precious to him.

The guards chased after Toya and Akito

Toya chased after Akito.

And Akito was sobbing in his mind.

"SOB SOB, WHY THE HELL IS THIS MAN DEAD SET ON KEEPING MY CAT FORM!? JUST GET A NEW ONE.- its really not that serious!"  Akito was sprinting through bushes and trees. Trying to loose the prince with sharp turns and twists.

But the prince wouldn't stop chasing him, even using dark magic to create the escape for difficult. But Akito refused, sliding down a steep hill tumbling over himself and rolling behind a bush.

He panted, immediately turning into a cat behind the bush. And crawling into the basket after rolling around in the cookies and dirt.

Toya was quick and immediately caught up, but thankfully he didn't see.

Akito crawled towards Toya with a small meow, his furr dirty as Toya immediately threw the sword to the ground and fell to his knees seeing his cat.

The cat nuzzled against his body wanting to be held.

"Am sorry- I didn't mean for you to get stolen- I promise I won't let anyone take you again-" Toya whispered, immediately holding onto the cat stuffing his face into the cats dirty fur. He didn't care if the cat was dirty. He just needed to make sure this wasn't a puppet and it was his real cat.

Akito trembled, not because he was tired. But because he was terrified. He now knew Toya would kill him on sight in his human form. He didn't even let him talk- fuck was he really no more than the assassin?- 

But- Toya wasn't like Akito, Toya doesn't know the human ginger was his beloved pet cat. He had no clue.

Still so- why did Akito feel so betrayed? Why did he feel so scared in the prince's once comforting hold and touch.

Why was he having shudders and shivers being sent down to his tail?...

Chapter Text

Akito was bathed and even got a whole new set of bows and treats. Was this a gift from Toya? A sorry for letting someone even run away with him?

He heard his heart pounding like crazy in his ears. But he really wasn't hungry at the moment, and he couldn't feel the want to even look through the delicate bows and what not.

Toya had personally washed the cats fur and paws. Massaging the dirty paws to pink again. And carefully combing his fur clean. Once that was done he placed the cat next to him on a pillow then headed to blow out the candles and lights.

That was yesterday, and now- there was gifts piling in Toyas room. Some from his brothers- others from his father- some from neighboring kingdoms with alliance's with the dark kingdom.

It was Toyas birthday, may 25th and Akito still wanted to hide away and do nothing.

Sadly enough, there was a ball being hosted. Butlers came in with a custom made suit for Toya for this special day. It was going to be a masquerade ball- classic. It was obvious Toya hadn't even cared for his date of birth.

The man didn't even wake up any earlier to celebrate and just went about his day. But his father had other plans. Toya was turning 25, it was about time he had gotten out of his shell and began looking for a partner- or at least befriend a few people.

Toya sighed after changing into his suit and having his hair done by Kohane. Toya stared at Kohane then at his cat once he was done. And Kohane immediately grabbed the fat fur ball and began dressing the cat up in a matching bow and cleaning up his fur properly.

Even cleaning out the fur between his fluffy paws and trimming his nails a bit.

(but nails CAN grow back. She ain't taking them out frfr💔)

Akito even got his own mini mask that Toya wore- it was connected to his bow by a little stick holding it up for him.

He looked in the mirror, then dragged Toya to the mirror by the edge of his pants as well.

He wanted to see if they were matching in any way. And to his surprise his guess was right. They both had the same bow and mask. Just different colors, Toya was wearing a black suit and a black carefully decorated bow with mini flowers and what not on.

Akito had the white version of the masquerade mask and bow.

"Heh, I look better each and every day~"  Akito meowed as he stretched and jumped onto the window to stare at birds.

Toya walked over and fell face first into the bed, looking so disappointed as he laid there.

Akito immediately snapped his head around and jumped down the window to jump up Toyas bed.

"I don't wanna go to the party..." Toya said, lifting his head staring at the cat.

Akito meowed rubbing his face against his masters cheek.

"Stay close with me okay? I don't want anyone stealing you." Toya sat up holding his cat close. Immediately a butler came and cleaned the fur off as soon as Toya set the cat back down.

"Your highness. Please follow me to the ballroom." Mafuyu walked in. Wearing her own attire with her short hair. The only difference was it looked much more fancy and it was a dress with another purple masquerade mask. And her hair seemed to have grown out much more since Akito last saw her, she looked pretty. Other than the fact her face was looking ever so strict as usual.

"Normally people always say girls should smile more. But I don't see why she should smile just to make royals feel important." Akito thought she looked nice. Smiling or not, but he wasn't gonna say anything. Not like he could anyway.

Mafuyu led Toya down the hall. Toya brought the cat along, even though the concubine had asked Toyas father to not let Toya bring the cat.

But Toya didn't care, he would do anything to annoy the woman. And he wouldn't leave his beloved pet all alone in boredom just because she couldn't accept the fact that the cat was more special then her.

Mafuyu had on her two faced mask already. Smiling and nodding as she passed by guards and maids, entering the half filled ballroom as she brought Toya over to his highness.

Akito snuck away immediately, people didn't notice the cat sneaking out the ballroom when all eyes were on the handsome prince who was dressed beautifully. He looked like a portrait, like he wasn't even human. Girls gasped and whispered, men clenched their teeth in jealousy seeing how quickly girls were talking about the prince.

But Akito was on a mission, since he could cover his face with a mask- maybe he could enjoy the party as a guest.

He snuck his way back into Toyas room, and headed straight for the closet. Immediately he took off his dirty clothes and hid them away, then found a white suit with beautiful ruffles on the wrist and some matching white pants. He put these on and he looked stunning. Of course he had to match himself with what he was wearing in cat form!

He looked way too good to just hide himself away the whole night! So he turned back into a cat as he exited Toyas room.

Heading to the ballroom. But he entered the bathroom, seeing it was just the start of the ball no one was inside the mens bathroom at the moment. He entered a stall and turned into a human. Then exited like it was nothing.

Chapter Text

Akito smiled as Royals and nobles approached him, asking where he was from and his name. He really tried to avoid these things... But the girls gossiped and talked seeing another attractive man who was all alone.

Akito slipped away to the table full of drinks and food. When was the last time he had a drink or two?

It wouldn't hurt if he did have some anyway... He didn't have a low tolerance since he, Mizuki, and Tsukasa, Shiho, and Ichika would sometimes have drinking competitions to see who would pay the next bill when they would go out to eat.

He was stopped by a princess approaching him with a wide smile- 

"Sir- may I please have a dance with you...?" She whispered, hiding behind her masquerade mask and a fan.

Akito smiled, eating a brownie then nodding.

"Of course, how could I turn down such a beautiful princess?" He said, offering his hand and leading her to the dance floor.

To be honest he was just being nice, he wasn't flirting or anything. It was normal to compliment royalty at balls. 

He learned this whenever An had a ball during her birthdays. 

As he and the princess danced- they got trapped in a rotating partner dance. He was paired with multiple different princesses- and then he got trapped with Toya.

Toya danced with the white suited ginger. His eyes tracing the delicate lines of his mask and smile.

Green eyes- the ginger hair, he could've sworn this was the same man who had stolen his cat. His grip tightened immediately, and his eyes grew dark.

Akito chuckled nervously as Toya spun him around.

"Your highness- your grip is-" 

Toya caught himself hearing the gingers voice. What a nice sound- wait no- fuck that wasn't important.

But Toya found himself loosening his grip immediately, feeling a bit guilty.

Just as Akito was about to get a new dance partner, the music stopped and people stepped off the floor.

"Perfect- about time. I can't stick around any longer- I have a feeling this mask won't do much to keep me safe.-"  Akito was about to step off the dance floor.

But suddenly someone grabbed his wrist and tugged him back. The music started again and the person held his waist carefully. Akito wanted to curse this person out, he frowned turning back to see the person who held him.

Toya stared at him, falling into a box step dance with the ginger.

Akito could feel the stares and felt uneasy, he wondered if Toya knew who he was already. Or if he was trying to find out.

"What is your name?..." Toya whispered, leaning down to the gingers ear then lifting his head high again. Staring down at him waiting for an answer.

"Not anyone important your highness-" Akito brushed the question off. But Toya didn't give up.

"You dance nicely," Toya mumbled, his quiet voice barely reached Akito's ears.

"Your highness is much too kind to me-" Akito tried to break the dance again. But Toya didn't allow him, spinning him around the dance floor then leaning back down.

"You feel familiar... Have I met you before?" Toya said as he leaned back down. Akito wasn't sure if he was in the clear or not. Toya held onto his waist carefully, and led him through the dance not letting him break away.

"No- your highness. Its our first meeting." He answered, giving a soft smile trying to not give the prince a bad profile on himself.

"Mh..." Toya was silent again. Akito felt the males icy cold grey eyes burning into his own. He held back a shiver and laughed.

"Your very quiet, rumors do be true at times..." Akito said, trying to keep a steady flow of conversation. At least to not make it awkward and give Toya the impression that he was nervous.

"You think so? I have quite a lot running through my mind..." Toyas eyes softened a little, and Akito nodded laughing out loud.

Once the dance was over, the two talked back and forth about random things. Swords, childhood, anything they could bond over they talked about.

Toya grew to enjoy this strange mans company, and unknowingly leaned much closer to him as this ginger ate pastries.

The two were outside on the ballrooms 2nd floor. Leaning against the balcony that was good for fresh air.

"Yeah- no my sister is pretty annoying at times..." Akito said, he already exchanged names with the prince. Akito wasn't a rare name anyway right...? Many people can be called Akito anyway... It was alright.

"Still, it must be nice to be able to sit down and enjoy talking to someone near your age who isn't paid to attend to you..." Toya looked over the balcony, staring at the far horizon before looking back over to the ginger.

"Your highness-" Akito didn't know what to say, he felt bad. He had experienced first hand how lonely this prince can be.

This man talked to the cat like crazy. And seeing Toya talking to even anyone and exchanging words was already rare. He felt a bit special- knowing this it made his heart feel warm. But he held back what he wanted to say, exchanged it with new words.

"Your highness, we should return to the ballroom. You have guests to entertain." 

"No, no, they'll be alright. I left them in good hands with Mafuyu." Toya brushed the ball off, reaching for the gingers hand he leaned down and pressed a small kiss to his knuckles.

"You on the other hand, are my guest." 

Those words made Akito's breath hitch. The soft kiss made his body go stiff- then he felt butterflies and twists going on in his stomach.

No- no way- this was wrong- he was lying to this man. 

He wasn't a random person. He was from the light kingdom, the same knight that has tried to kill Toya before.

He shouldn't be feeling so warm and safe- he was just suppose to rest here then flee and run back to the light kingdom. The same kingdom he grew attached to many people in. The same kingdom that's probably searching for him!

But oh... How Toya made him felt- it felt so nice, nicer than anything he ever has had before...

Chapter Text

Toya had never met someone so- easy to talk to. Someone he felt so connected with.

When he first danced with this mysterious man he felt on guard as usual. But when he felt his hands fit so perfectly in his own. His steps falling into rhythm with this man.-

Gosh his smile- it felt like his heart had flown high into the sky, his hands on the man had tightened before he was reminded to loosen his grip.

And after that, they talked for what seemed like minutes which was hours instead... He felt like he had found where he belonged. Who he belonged with- 

Sure this might sound stupid. But this person had captivated him with a single laugh and smile.

He was unsure on why he felt this way. But he didn't care, he wanted to keep this person close. No one else mattered, the ball didn't matter. Any beautiful princesses didn't matter- his father said to make a friend.

So wasn't this alright?

His father said he could have anyone of his choice. This was his choice. He just needed to know what was behind that mask. Who owned this beautiful laugh, this glowing smile- male or not. He didn't care, if his father cared. That wasn't his problem.

Toya wanted to keep this person as his. He wanted everything for this person. He couldn't dream of harming or bringing heartbreak to this single person- 

But why? Why did he feel this way?

The ball had long ended, the mysterious man in white disappeared along with the crowd. And the cat had returned.

"Where were you the whole time...?" Toya said, picking the cat up holding it close.

Toya walked off with his cat. He had talked to his father. And his father seemed rather pleased that his son had met someone who made him feel giddy and warm.

Toya hadn't told him the gender, he had avoided doing so- he didn't know how his father would react anyway. 

Not that he cared, but he wanted to respect this persons privacy. He wasn't going to force them to be with him.

No never, he wanted this to be something real. Something genuine, he didn't want to force anything.

He was going to court them in the slowest way possible.

As Toya walked down the hall he hadn't realized Mafuyu was behind him. He was walking stuck in thought.

He wanted to keep things slow and let the other party set the pace. He wanted this to be everlasting. He wanted this to be that spark finally lighting up again. The one he had lost when his mother died and he felt depressed and grew silent.

This person made him feel alive and want to talk again.

Toya entered his room, and Mafuyu entered. She smiled softly.

"Your highness... You seem so happy. Did something happen?" She asked, Toya smiled and nodded. His eyes warm and soft for once.

And he wasn't playing with his cat.

Mafuyu left not too long after. Heading to her own chambers after making sure Toya was alright.

Toya changed and took off his clothes, heading for A quick bath.

He stared at himself in the mirror, his mouth began to hurt from how much he smiled. Whenever he thought about this person he wanted to smile and laugh immediately.

He didn't know what to do with himself, every time he closed his eyes the person was back in his mind. He needed to tell someone- anyone.

He bathed and stepped out in a set of normal pants and a shirt. He fell into bed, his fists clenching. Seeing his cat he raised his head. Finally spilling out everything.

"And he was this whole thing!- he was amazing! And funny!- and he was everything! I don't know what this feeling is but its- it feels so real!"

Toya knew this was stupid to talk about something like this to his cat he had internally named Mr. Paws.

But he needed an outlet!

"He felt so soft- his hands fit perfectly with mine as well!- and-"

Toya was pacing the room. His cat watching his every move as it watched the prince pace.

"His eyes- they- they're the most beautiful gem on this planet- if he were a treasure. He'd be my treasure, he's priceless! He's the most beautiful thing god has made!"

He suddenly walked up to the cat his face complex and faint with blush.

"But I don't know how he looks underneath his mask- I don't know where he is now- and I don't know his last name..."

He finally laid back down after talking for hours. His cat meowed and purred laying nearby.

"I want him to be mine so badly, but we've just met. I need to see him more- and see from there shouldn't I? I can't treat it like a romance... If we aren't ment to be then fate will drag it apart... "

Toya closed his eyes, slowly as he played with his pet a little.

His mind shutting down for slumber after having talked so much- he was tired. He hadn't talked that much since he was a child. It felt so weird. But it was nice finally saying what he wanted. It was amazing...

Chapter Text

Akito made sure Toya was deep asleep before turning human.

He silently entered the large washroom- and shut the door.

"FUCK TOYA WAS TALKING ABOUT HIM!? He was so sweet about it too!" Akito looked in the mirror and his face was pure red. He could feel his heart pounding. He wanted to fall to the ground and roll around.

Fuck! Toya was too sweet! He was too kind and beautiful! This man did NOT just fall in love with HIM of all people!?

Before this Akito could've sworn he was straight. But Toya made him believe he wasn't.

He really didn't even take much attraction to girls. But now he definitely knew that. He felt so giddy and happy knowing how Toya felt.

But right now there was a bigger problem...

Toya has him as a cat, that form was A- okay!

And then... Without his mask, Toya chased him down and even almost choked him! 

And with his mask... Toya fell in love with him...

FUCK WHY CAN'T THIS BE ANY EASIER!?

He was in distress, he didn't know if he should be happy or sad...

This ment he was good with the mask on. But without it, Toya could easily take back everything and think he was here on a mission to kill him if he isn't careful! 

But he really wasn't! He was a poor knight who had turned into a cat from a potion and managed to be taken in by the handsome prince... 

But the way Toya talked about him... Fuckkk he was falling hard. Toya even kissed his hand!

This wasn't good... He waa falling for the prince... And now he was more hesitant on leaving and returning home...

But he missed his sister, and friends. And his best friend An- he didn't know what to do...

He felt so sad but also he knew he was just falling more and more in love with Toya.

Toya was kind, and gentle. He cared for people he found dear to himself like nothing else.

He was a strong and smart man, and handsome + plus bonus points for being a prince and wealthy.

Not like Akito cared for the last parts but he knew that was some bonus. But he didn't have anything good to give in return.

He didn't feel like he was worthy of this position... A princess should be in this position instead...

Akito knew he was lying to himself so he could gaslight himself into believing it was a one time meeting so he could force himself home.

But he couldn't ignore the fact that Toya was more than a small crush, Akito wanted more. But he didn't know if this could end up great or for the worst.

Why was this so hard...? 

And not to mention he wasn't able to tell this man about who he really was. Would Toya still love him if he knew the truth? If he knew the true Akito?

The selfish, dumb, good for nothing, anger issued man hidden behind his mask?

He suddenly felt distraught. And sad, he didn't know why he always thought of himself to be less talented than others.

Toya was way out of his league. He shouldn't let himself hope for too much. It really would be best if he didn't show himself anymore.

Chapter Text

Akito turned back into a cat, and crawled into his cat bed near the window. Fuck, he could've escaped long ago when he was outside on a walk.

Wasn't that his first priority?

He wasn't hurt anymore. He had healed up and could've escaped anytime he wanted.

Why was it so hard to leave now? He could easily slip out into the dark castles halls and jump out the gardens hedges. 

But for some reason he couldn't bring himself to move. 

"Why did I have to grow attached!?" He was tweaking out, rolling around in his cat bed. His paws holding onto his fluffy head.

But even if he escaped, he wouldn't be able to make it very far anyway. He was a cat now, there could be stray dogs or wolf's in the forest and on the path to the light kingdom that could jump and injure him.

Plus with the fact that now he was The silent prince's beloved pet "cat". Escape wasn't gonna be easy anyway, he'd have guards looking for him like crazy as soon as Toya found out.

Plus he couldn't use his human form now. Toya had seen him with a mask, which was the version of himself that Toya had fell in love with-

Then there was the form without the mask... That was the one Toya was cautious about thinking he tried to steal the cat in that form...

FUCK this was terrible! It was either get caught transforming human. Get made a move on in his masked version. Or get taken to the dungeon! Which was in his unmasked version.

ALL WERE ASS OPTIONS! Except getting asked out- but eventually he'd have to take off his mask so that wasn't gonna work!

He couldn't think of any good outcomes if he turned into a human. The chances of being caught up to were high without a horse.

Plus he didn't have any cash to rent one, unless... He stole one. From the royal stables...

Huh... Not a bad idea, really is it?

It wouldn't be a bad idea- that would've been if he knew where they were.

Toyas daily routine was A round around the castle. But never anywhere near the stables, plus much less did Toya want his precious cat even getting dirty so he wasn't taken out much. If he was taken outside, he was carried in Toyas arms personally so his paws didn't get dirty though...

And he also didn't like how the dirt and rocks felt between his beans. Fuck was he this pampered already!?

What kind of knight lets himself be pampered like a king while disguised as a cat!?- 

He would. What was he thinking? Letting it all happen and not even try to keep his dignity while it happened!?

 But he knew he was just letting himself get off track so he didn't need to return home, he wanted to stay with Toya. He wanted to learn more about the prince, he wanted to run his hands through the soft looking hair. He had seen Toyas eyes look so soft and full of light, he just wanted one more glance before it he was gone.

Just one last glance.

Akito creeped around the room. And entered the walk in closet, he turned human and dug around for A while. Coming across a worn out bag all the way in the back.

A travel bag, it wasn't unusual for royalty to have common clothes or worn out bags. They usually wore them when they visited other kingdoms so they didn't stand out as much.

He tossed off the clothes from the ball and began to change.

But he'd have to steal Toyas clothes again. He fit them better anyway, what would be the big deal?

The big deal was that it was Toyas clothes. For some reason he felt a blush threatening to creep onto his face at the thought.

Why was it suddenly awkward now!?

It was just clothes. It didn't matter- right? It wasn't that big of a deal anyway!- 

Akito stuffed the bag with common and less flashy clothes. When he was done he changed into some less formal pants and a shirt. Grabbing a large cape with a hood he tied it around his neck loosely. 

Then he was back into a cat and went back inside Toyas room. He had plans to leave tomorrow night, having need some cash before he went. So he'd use tomorrow as a way to somehow find some extra cash laying around.

And to gather food late in the night, h op efully it would go as planned, but a ginger could only hope.

He dragged the worn out bag underneath Toyas bed. Hiding it behind the flowing covers and using some of his scattered toys.

He couldn't let his escape bag get found, he made up his mind on returning home. As nice as this castle was, and as much as he loved Toya-

He missed his sister more. And he knew she did to.

So with a final lap around the room making sure nothing looked weird, he leaped up onto Toyas bed. Wanting to nuzzle close to his prince one last time.

Toyas eyes fluttered open, he hummed opening the covers letting the cat enter wrapping his arms around the fluff and cuddled it close.

Akito felt guilty in the prince's arms, he felt bad knowing he was leaving him behind. But he held himself back from putting his plan on hold.

Chapter Text

Akito awoke the next morning to Toyas tired smiling face.

"How'd you sleep?.." Toya mumbled, his voice low and deep in the mornings. But that didn't make him any less beautiful with bed hair.

Akito could feel his tummy turning, and in return he meowed.

Toya chuckled as he started getting up Akito trailed behind him immediately.

Their morning routine was starting all over again. One last time, and Toya didn't even know it was the last time.

Akito followed Toya to the dining hall, to the training grounds. Back to the dining hall and back to the room.

As usual the room was silent as Toya picked up a new read. Petting the cats fur as his eyes traced the pages and the words. Turning to a new one as he sipped some coffee Kohane had brought him.

Akito purred in Toyas lap he almost forgot what he had plans to do, but he got a small peak of the bag underneath Toyas bed. And his memory was regained on his plan.

Toya went to bed early, putting his book aside with a sigh looking like he was ready to fall over and sleep.

Akito didn't want him to sleep yet, he didn't want to part at all yet.

But Toya slowly stood and walked over to the bed, blew out any of the lights. And began climbing under the covers with ease.

Chapter Text

Akito waited a good 30 minutes. Soon hearing Toyas breathing slow down a little he turned human.

Fuck he didn't even get to see Toyas eyes grow warm and soft again, but that wasn't going to hold him back from his plan.

And so he turned human, sneaking around Toyas bed he grabbed the bag underneath it holding his breath scared to be caught. Heading over to Toyas desk silently he opened a drawer. Borrowing some money, with guilt.

"I feel bad. I'd leave him a note but that would blow my cover really fucking bad. What would I even write? 

'Hey am the cat you took care of and I'm actually a human from the light kingdom. Now I'll be borrowing money from you which is more like stealing. But thanks for taking care of me anyway.'

"Fuck no..."

Before he left he moved around cleaning and picking up his toys. Remembering how Toya would play with him for hours and always seemed happy to spend his time with his cat.

When Akito finished he turned heading towards the window.-

He immediately tripped over something and with a loud thud he fell to the ground.

FUCK- the stupid mouse toy! He forgot to put that shit away!-

He immediately looked over at Toya, who sat up in his bed. Rubbing his eyes.

Fuck- its now or never.

Akito might've looked like a thief at the moment. But he couldn't let his plan go to waste.

He immediately ran opened the window and jumped out. Toya was on the high floors of the castle. But Akito wasn't a high ranking knight for no reason.

He grabbed onto some loose bricks and swung his way onto the roof.

Toya jumped up from his bed, looking around. But his cat was nowhere to be seen.

Did they take him?

Toya jumped up from his bed, watching the cloaked figure jump and swing himself towards the roof.

"Give me my cat back you asshole!"  Toya immediately gave chase, using his magic he gave himself a jump boost and ended up on the same roof. Immediately he took long strides.

This was uncalled for. The person seemed to know what they were doing climbing down bricks, landing on the roof of watch towers.

Toya would've been impressed. If this person wasn't here when his fat cat disappeared.

"Fuck. That thud was too loud, of course he'd wake up! And now he's chasing me... This makes it so much worse!"

He jumped down grabbing onto the bricks, he couldn't use his magic. That wouldn't be a good idea. He specialized in fire magic. But he'd probably burn down a shit ton of stuff and get a bounty on his head while doing it.

He knew how to use light magic, but that would make it way too obvious on what kingdom he was from. And where he trained.

But in the end, Akito was at the edge of the roof. And he jumped off, landing on a puff of light smoke he made and made it disappear quickly.

He wasn't trying to let Toya get a good peak at his magic. It would be best not to if they managed to run into each other again.

But Toya glared down at him from above.

Was he safe?...

Toya grew pissed, I'm he raised his right hand to his mouth and whistled from on top of the roof, there was a loud echo for A while.

Moments later a dragon flew to it's master. Zooming past.

Toya held his hand up as the dragon zoomed past immediately climbing up skillfully.

Toyas dragon Azov, was A mythical creature in this world. Very insanely rare, but they existed anyway. 

Toyas dragon zoomed down close to the caped thief close enough that the cloaked person ducked and had shot a small gust of flames in their direction.

"A fire mage?"  Toyas eyes narrowed, with a wave of his hand the flames were put out by ice.

"Two can play that game."  He had his dragon give an endless chase. Every time they came close though. The person would disappear behind a bush and they wouldn't be able to find them.

It was only luck that they found the person sneaking around the trees and could even continue giving chase.

Akito panted as he ran, he knew he was only getting lucky that he had enough time to transform into a cat and hide away.

His luck would run out soon enough, Toyas dragon was A fierce creature. Trained and forever loyal to its master.

"Stupid dragon... Your making this harder than it needs to be anyway!"  Akito sent another flame. They were small and useless. But they bought time for him to hide in bushes and what not.

Chapter Text

Akito was panting underneath a large old tree, hiding away from Toyas dragon up above.

"YOUR CAT REALLY ISN'T THAT FUCKING IMPORTANT. There's no way you brought that FATASS DRAGON out to search for A cat! But you don't bring him out at all during war times!" Akito was in complete shock. Stumbling over to a large rock and sitting on top.

He unloaded his bag, suddenly realized he forgot to get any food or water.

He stared down at his bag. Scoffing as he closed it and simply rested against the tree.

"Well, its either I'll die by a dragon. Or die from stupidity."  He sighed, swallowing a gulp he began to slowly sneak around the forest. He couldn't hear the dragon anymore, but that didn't mean the dragon couldn't hear him. Although he doesn't know how well a dragon can hear, it'd be best to not underestimate the mythical beast.

Akito walked for what felt like hours, he watched as the night sky's clouds grew dark.

"Of course it rains... Bring down thunder while your at it and strike me down already." He was done at this point. No food or water, was hell for this pampered cat- human- whatever the hell he was.

Damn that dark prince for always feeding him like it was his last days on earth. He grew too used to it that he was already grumbling from hunger.

But he kept walking, when he felt raindrops hit the top of his head he wanted to sit down and cry. He suddenly remembered he couldn't use his cat form since it hated water.

And he hated cold water... He just had to hope it wasn't gonna be heavy rain.

!BOOM! 

Akito hid underneath a tree, soaked as he sniffled underneath the large branch.

Of course his luck had reached its end and he was trapped in a horribly cold storm.

He wanted to crawl up into a cat and jump into his soft bed. Or Toyas arms.

But he shook his head "Am not gonna be able to head back, I've made it this far. Rain can't stop me now." And with a sigh he wanted to wait it out.

BOOM!

Akito looked around, then he turned hearing a creak...

FUCK! THE LARGE TREE WAS STRUCK!

Akito grabbed his bag and scurried out, his face scrunched as he fought back the rain. His hood flew off and his face got soaked!

The tree fell with a tumble and struggle. Then a loud bang, Akito was in shock, and grew pissed.

Thunder kept roaring, almost threatening him. 

BOOM-

"OH PUT A SOCK IN IT ASSHOLE." 

Akito was done, he screamed and cursed out the sky's sticking up his middle finger. In hopes of doing something maybe. But nothing happened.

It kept raining and coming down like a waterfall.

He was so angry and hungry he was going into a sour mood.

The rain was cold, and it drenched his clothes underneath quickly.

He was sniffling and sneezing from the cold wind and water.

Suddenly he felt hopeless, wanting to curl up and cry. He missed his older sister, suddenly remembering the way she used to scold him as a child and make him some yummy soup.

He felt so useless, he felt so dumb.

And worst of all he was homesick.

He cried out on the ground, snob filling and dirtying his face. He missed his home so much. He missed Ena, he missed those stupid and happy memories he took for granted at times.

He missed when she spent hours learning to bake just to surprise him with a cake the first year Akito became a knight.

He missed having to hold her bags, then be rewarded with bought sweets as a hidden thank you.

He missed how she understood him the best at times. He missed his friends Mizuki and Tsukasa.

And he missed An. He missed helping her around new castles, secretly helping her train so she could protect herself.

He missed everything, although it was all still there waiting for him.

But he felt like there was nothing to go on for.

He was lost, he didn't and couldn't see 5 feet ahead of him. He hadn't felt so helpless before.

Not since the last time Ena locked herself away in her room after their father had broken her dreams down again.

He hated feeling helpless, thats why he trained to become a head knight. But what was the good in all that training when its useless without someone who has the talent to wield it?

Akito slowly stood up, wiping his face with his dirty sleeve then starting to walk again.

"No more crying, just hold yourself together..."  He told himself, only to end up sick rather quickly.

His head was burning, his eyes were closing much more often. Trying to keep out the water and stuff flying around. He couldn't see, and he finally couldn't keep going. He stumbled over and stopped moving.

Chapter Text

Toya was still moving throughout the forest. Using his magic as a shielded bubble to keep walking through the storm.

Whoever this person was that escaped him, they must've been very quick on their feet...

The storm was tough to make his way through, but he would rather die then lose his adorable precious cat.

And soon he heard a loud thump a good walk away, his dragon held its wing up over him. To block out the rain.

As he walked faster when hearing a scream. Could it be the cloaked person?-

He moved through the bushes his hands moving the wet branches out of his face. And then he saw the person fall over from the back.

He didn't rush to check who this person was, but with long strides he was crouched down removing the hood.

Ginger... Very, very faint freckles... A handsome face...

The masked ginger from the ball?

Toya wasn't sure if his guess was right, but although he never saw the mans face. He could tell the details around the mask since he was so lost staring into his eyes that night.

Suddenly his heart pounded, immediately he picked the person up bridal carry and felt their head.

A fever...

"Why would he go out in this weather?" 

Toyas mind was busy with understanding why this once masked individual would even come out in such weather he forgot on who he was chasing before.

Then it suddenly hit him as he rode on the dragon holding the person close. This was the same person he chased from the gazebo, and the cloaked person...

Had he fallen for someone working against him?... Toya shook his head. His eyes darkened, but staring down at the unconscious individuals face he softened his gaze and sighed.

He couldn't bring himself to just leave this person to die. Evil or not he had fallen for this man in one night... Something told him to question this man instead.

He was holding on tighter, seeing the person's green eyes blink open slowly after a while and reach up to touch his face his heart dropped.

"Your highness?... You've found me already...?" The ginger whispered, then smiled his hand reaching to hold on tightly onto Toyas shirt.

"Let's go back home..." And the man was in a daze staring up at him.

So adorably lost... So- happy and glad to see him. Toya had never seen someone who was excited to see him at all.

Wait- Home?- what did he mean by home...?

Toya was dazed, but feeling the mans shivering hold he held his hand and kissed his knuckles again.

"Let's get you to bed first..." Toya whispered, the man felt fragile in his grasp. Nothing like how strong he seemed back in the night of the ball.

It made Toya feel sad, he wanted to make sure this man had a full recovery first! Then he'd question him. If he remembered that is... Truth be told Toya had a horrible memory. Every time after any wars he wouldn't remember anything since he zoned out the whole time.

But he felt this male was so familiar, even at the ball it felt as though that wasn't their first meeting.

He had to get an explanation, plus he needed to know where his cat was.

He had to know.

And maybe ask him out to a small walk in the gardens later...

Chapter Text

Akito woke up his head hurting like crazy, his eyes blinked open by force as he tried to sit up. But he couldn't find the energy to do so at all.

More importantly- where was he?

Akito looked around, any source of light burned his head. So he tried his best to avoid looking into any flames or nearby flickers of golden fire in the corners of his eyes.

When he moved his head too fast it hurt like crazy, he felt like an old man trying not to push himself too hard.

Akito hadn't been this sick in forever, normally during a cold he could push through the stuffed nose and continue work and moving around like nothing.

But it was sick days like this that he feared the most.

"Stuffy nose... Head throbbing... Throat hurting... I feel like throwing up too, plus its hard to move without force... And its too hot... But its also too cold..."  He fell back, immediately he didn't care where he was. Whoever had brought him was kind enough to give him a bed and change his clothes.

That was enough for Akito to accept their help. At least in this state, otherwise he probably would've gotten up found a window and jumped out to head to the light kingdom.

Akito laid back down, groaning silently as he tried his best to breath. But he had to breath from his mouth in the end. Since it was already dry as fuck it made him feel much worse.

But he couldn't stop breathing, as much as he'd rather DIE then live with a shitty side effect from a sickness. He took deep breathes hoping to get it under control.

*Knock knock*

Akitos head twisted, suddenly remembering he was a guest he wanted to say hello and introduce himself. But his head thronged from turning his head around too fast. And his vision blurred a little from the sudden light that he turned to face.

(There is a nearby desk with a candle that's the light he faced.)

"Hello?..." 

Akito didn't know who's voice this was. He opened his eyes slowly to see a brown short haired girl holding a bowl of soup and water on a tray walking inside.

"Sir your not allergic to anything are you?" The maid asked, smiling as she tilted her head. Showing she wasn't harmful.

"A maid...? This person who helped me is either wealthy, or has connections to someone wealthy and a brought me to the wealthy persons house..."  Akito was thinking on who could've helped him. Wondering who was possibly strolling during a thunderstorm in the middle of a forest where a tree fell.

"No- nothing at all..." Akito said, the maid held a candle with some magic.

But seeing Akito whince at the light she blew it out.

"Sir Akito, if this is too much light for your eyes we can dim it as much as you need. Some natural light is alright to allow inside."

The girl set the tray down on the desk right next too the bed. Then he suddenly seemed to remember something and spoke.

"I'll go get his highness, please wait here."

"of course..." 

"Not like I could go anywhere anyway. Yeah let me just jump out of the window real quick while am dying in bed."  When the maid left Akito looked around wanting to get a good view of the room. There was a lot of light still, but Akito could avoid looking at it in the meantime.

At the end of the room the bed was placed directly in the middle, with two large curtain covered windows at either side. A desk and chair on the right side, and the right an empty walkway.

There was fluffy carpeting that Akito could see on the ground from the bed. And there was multiple doors max would be about 3.

One entering the room, and another on the left wall of the door to enter the room. And another next to that one.

A fireplace somewhere near the desk against the wall. And some chairs facing it, but since it was bright Akito couldn't bring himself to adore the decorations. Hiding his face away in a pillow after he saw what he cared enough about.

The bed had curtains to draw and close out the world from inside. But Akito tried reaching for them to no avail since his head thronged with each useless reach.

Suddenly it hit him.  "Did she say highness?-" 

Suddenly there were steps and 4 people entered the room.

Fuck it was Toya!- Akito wanted to stand up about to meow. Then he caught himself.

"Shit your not a cat!- at least not right now..."  He bit on his tongue to stop himself. Watching as Toya scurried over to his side.

Worried? Why was he so worried?...

Kohane who seemed surprised stared at the unsuspecting ginger. Akito remembered when she last stared at him long ago and how he felt uncomfortable. It didn't change much, he wanted to lean away from Kohane staring into his damn soul. 

But Toya was already at his bedside.

"Are you alright Akito?" He asked, looking like a sad wet dog next to the ginger sick cat. (Heh, get the reference? No? I'll shut up.💔)

"Your highness? What are you doing here?-" Akito was cut off by a spoonful of soup stuffed into his mouth.

"Please drink the soup, your our guest! It's best to get better quickly Mr. Akito!" Kohane smiled, spoon feeding the poor ginger who was wanting to pull away to say something.

"Your highness. Your father is still waiting in the dining hall." Mafuyu spoke up catching Toyas attention. Immediately he stood, hesitating on leaving his guest alone but he sighed and stepped back towards Mafuyu.

"I'll be back Akito- I have something to do first..."

Why couldn't Akito get the chance to talk first at least!?

He was so confused on why he was being spoon fed like a baby. In which he wasn't. He was a grown ass man for their information!

But Kohane held a sweet smile as she fed him. Fuck he was too nice to stop someone as kind as the maid. Especially since he personally had an insight experience of interacting with her and seeing her work.

Fine. Just a little, only because she had made him so many yummy treats as a cat.

When Akito was done and Kohane hummed setting the dish down, she went around blowing the candles out with care.

Then she pulled the curtains around the bed around the edge so if anyone entered with light Akito wasn't a victim to the brightness. And so she could open the windows and get some natural lighting without harming the sick person in the room.

"Your head should hurt. And seeing light will only make it more painful during your recovery. I'll have arrangements made so you don't need to be around much light." She said, after she finished closing the bed curtains

"Right- thank you." 

"Of course, anyone his highness brings back home is a guest no questions asked. Please make yourself at home Sir!"

Akito was confused as fuck again, Toya brought him to the castle? Did he not realize Akito was the same caped person and ginger from those two different encounters?

While Akito was lost in thought. Kohane had already shut the door, in her mind this was a chance to prove herself the best maid around!

Toya never brought home a guest! And Toya seemed to care so much and had a room arranged quickly.

She had never seen Toya look so careful and worried, which was something she now could NOT die before seeing a second time.

Since it was obvious this person was special and important, she felt as though it was good to make a good impression and try to keep them content.

Happy guest= happy prince right?

Well, then she'd just have to serve harder than she already did! 

Kohane pumped her fist up in the air. Set on making this the best experience for the sickly person in the room. Then scurrying off on her twig legs almost tripping over her own two feet from excitement.

Akito was laying himself back down, it definitely helped that Kohane had put out the light and now since it was quiet he could enjoy his own time alone and rest.

"Maybe I should be questioning more. But with how much time I've spent with Toya... I don't doubt anything he does anymore. I trust him enough that I don't think anything he does for me is harmful at all..."

Chapter Text

Toya was tired, snoozing as he walked. Truth be told he could sleep anywhere if allowed.  He could probably learn how to walk and sleep if he wanted to.

Years ago, before his mother had died... She used to call "him the sleepiest boy in the world."

"I wonder if Akito's doing much better now..."  He wondered, Mafuyu who had cut her hair back down again. Held open the door to the dining hall.

Toya immediately came back to the present hearing the doors open. It wasn't often him and his father sat down anymore at the dining hall anymore. Not after his mothers death at least...

Mafuyu stood to the side of the dining halls entrance. Leaving Toya to fend for himself as he sat down next to his father.

At first it was silent, then Toyas father spoke up.

"Toya. I heard you've brought a guest over..." 

"Yes ."

"Who is this guest? You never bring anyone over."

"A... Friend."

"Where did you meet him?"

"Ball."

"How long have you known him?"

"Not long."

"Whats their name?"

"Akito."

"Where are they from."

"Unsure."

His father fell silent not long after. As usual Toya still spoke at least 2 or less words in response. It seemed that was just a pass time to make it not seem so awkward and sad.

Yes, he didn't speak to anyone other than his cat, Akito, very rarely Mafuyu. And much less Kohane. He had grown used to being silent. Usually at the table his mother was the chatter box and helped soothe things over. Keeping conversation flowing, or genuinely talking about what she did that day.

Now it was gone.

There was an obvious wall between the father a son. But before Toya could even blink the doors to the dining hall were opened again.

Two grown men walked in, similar in looks to Toya. And his father.

"When did they-" 

Toya hadn't expected his brothers to return from their abroad learning after spending years away. He didn't even recall the last time he saw them other than when they reached waited for their turns to speak with mother while she was on her death bed.

But it felt less awkward, smiling faces as the two men entered the dining hall. Passing Toya they patted his head, and messed with his hair.

"Toya, how have you been?" Said Natsuomi.

"I've brought you some gifts. Please have a look Toya." Said Shuji.

Toya was still wide eyes as they passed to go greet father. Blinking over at Mafuyu who cleared her throat and went to whisper in his ear.

"They've wanted to make it a surprise for you..." She said, Immediately heading back to her stand giving him a small thumbs up.

Outside he looked stable and composed.

But inside he was stressing.

When did they get back!? He didn't have anything planned as gifts!- plus he really did want to give them something since he did miss them quite a bit... The castle was so silent without anyone else other than his father. And Toya, plus the servants.

But at least now it wouldn't be as dead as usual.

Toya was still lost in thought as his brothers sat down at the table.

"Toya, I've heard you've brought a guest over. Mind if you introduce us? Its not everyday our silent Toya even manages to make conversation with others. Much less friends." His brother Natsuomi said, a smile as he was served a plate.

Soon they were all served plates, and they began eating.

To be honest, Toya wanted to say no. He felt bad for wanting to disagree. He didn't like how he could be selfish at times...

But he genuinely didn't want to push Akito too hard since he was sick at the moment. He wanted to keep him in a quiet room to recover first. And have some time alone with him before having everyone all over him and asking questions.

Although that seemed to just be a small topic. Since his brothers and fathers were quickly talking and building up about the kingdom and other matters.

Not like Toya cared since he was in his own world. Just eating his food slowly. Letting the time pass, when he was done he excused himself early.

"Introduce me to your friend later."

"We'll see you around Toya."

"Mh."

His brothers said small farewells. His father didn't acknowledge his leave, continuing to talk about whatever they were.

It didn't matter to Toya anymore, he didn't mind.

Mafuyu held the gift Toyas brothers had brought him. Just following behind Toya as he took a turn seemingly heading to his room. But instead he kept walking.

"Your heading to his room?-" Mafuyu asked, she was confused. Toya never seemed eager to visit anyone at all. 

Toya nodded, looking like an excited puppy hopping from foot to foot to walk faster to Akito's room.

Chapter Text

Akito was fast asleep, snoring away before being disrupted by a small knock.

Immediately he jumped awake, having grown used to always being on guard in his human form at this point. 

He heard some quick foot steps. He leaned closer to the curtains around the bed about to peek through them.

Before a hand had carefully opened them, right in front of him was Toya. Eyes wide seeing Akito so up close.

Akito immediately retreated back, he could've sworn he felt his face go red from being embarrassed since his face was so close to Toyas.

Toya smiled chuckling a bit seeing Akito retreat so quickly. His eyes looking so soft staring at Akito, making Akito's own heart beat faster uncontrollably.

"Your highness...? Don't you have a meeting?"

"It had already ended... Are you doing any better now Akito?"

Toya seemed to brush off the mention of the meeting, Akito was nosy. But he also didn't care enough to ask any further.

"Yes- much better actually... My headache is gone now..." Akito smiled, sitting up correctly as Toya opened the curtain more and sat on the edge of the bed. But he didn't open more than needed. Afraid if he opened it too much the light would harm Akito's eyes again.

"Thats good..." Toya whispered, wanting to come closer but he held back.

Akito felt a bit awkward being stared at by Toya. He could feel every glance and it made him feel like squirming.

"My brothers..." Toya started speaking, Akito could see Mafuyu through a small crack. He saw her setting down the gifts in Toyas lap and disappearing seemingly leaving the room quickly. Not wanting or caring to just stand around like a dog.

"They brought me gifts..." Toya opened a box. 

"But they're all too sweet..." Toya pointed at the boxes. Looking like a sad wet dog again.

It was obvious he tried eating them beforehand already, since there was small piecing missing from each box.

"You don't have a good tolerance for sweets your highness?" Akito felt like laughing on the spot. seeing Toya almost shrink down and nod slowly. Looking like a scolded kid.

"They can't be that sweet can they?" Akito reached for A chocolate.

"Please excuse me..." He apologized as he grabbed a chocolate and plopped it into his mouth.

Toya didn't say anything just watching him eat the chocolate slowly.

FUCK. The chocolate was good. It wasn't even all that sweet either! 

Akito was plopping chocolate after chocolate into his mouth, looking like he was enjoying himself.

Toya just smiled watching him eat so happily.

"There's a shop that sells top tier sweets near the castle... If you want how about we go there when your better?" Once Toya noticed this ginger had a sweet tooth, he was quick to latch onto the fact. Using this chance to get him out after he was healed and to himself for a little while.

"That- sounds good your highness!" Akitos eyes glowed as he continued to eat. His mouth stuffed a bit. Toya chuckled again, tugging the box out of Akito's grasp.

"Swallow."

Akitos hand that was reaching out for another froze. Staring up at Toya with wide eyes. He stared as he swallowed.

Once Toya saw that he swallowed he moved the box back into his grasp. Letting him continue to eat.

To be honest, Akito wasn't usually like this when he ate. But since Toya took care of him as a cat- he really kept forgetting to keep himself in check near Toya. Since Toya never scolded him or anything when he was a cat. He grew used to doing whatever near the other.

Toya found the way Akito looked up at him adorable, like a certain ginger cat he had. Suddenly he had a feeling these two beings were connected.

Chapter Text

The next day, Akito was still kinda sick, still having a stuffy nose with a sigh he blew into a tissue again.

"I hate being sick..."  He thought, now the windows and the curtains around the bed were open. But he still didn't have the energy to get up and move around yet.

So he slid further into the blankets planning to fall asleep again.

*Knock knock*

Akito sat up on his bed immediately, his head throbbing since he moved too quickly.

"Come in."

Akito called out. Seeing the door open to reveal Toya- who seemed to look happy to see him.

"Akito,"

"Toya!- what are you doing here?"

"Just came to check on you." Toya said, moving closer standing right next to the bed. Staring down at Akito.

"Aren't you busy doing anything?" Akito snickered, but seeing Toya freeze up looking as though he was caught. He suddenly grinned.

https://pin.it/6XzXS5qoQ

(I drew art but idk how to paste it in :( please look at it this is the reason I didn't upload yesterday)

"You'd better go back to work before it piles up~" Akito said. 

Toya sighed, continuing to enter the room. Plopping down on Akito's bed further up, and with a another exaggerated sigh.

"Can't A prince stay a little while longer?"

"Beats me. I was just reminding you." He hummed scooting closer to Toya unconsciously. 

Toya watched Akito come closer. He sat up staring at the other his face straight.

Akito sat down right next to him smirking.

"You must be busy, since your brothers are back now right? How are they like?"

"They're fun..."

"Kohane said they were overseas before. Studying right? That must be hard..."

"They're smart..." Toya mumbled looking down at his hands.

Akito was about to continue talking, opening his mouth to speak again.

But Toya grabbed him and fell back onto the bed. Holding Akito in his grasp as they both laid there together on their sides facing each other. Toyas chin rested atop Akito's fluffy hair. And Akito's face rested against Toyas chest.

"What are you doing!?-" Akito said, hissing like a cat about to start tweaking out.

"Shh, lets stay like this a little longer." 

Akito wanted to say no, feeling his own face go red.

But Toya had closed his eyes, and there seemed to be big eye bangs already underneath them. Akito knew Toya was looking for his cat non-stop. And it seemed that he relaxed near him, Akito felt at fault, seeing Toya look so tired.

"Just a little bit." 

  He mumbled, laying there and closing his eyes. Unconsciously he fell into a small nap while being held by Toya.

He missed being able to be held freely by Toya.

But that was in his cat form.

If only that could be the same for his human form.

Chapter Text

After 2 weeks Akito had his recovery. He wasn't used to sitting around but he had to since if he moved around too much or too fast his head would throb. 

Once Akito was better he started getting up early to move around a bit. He had some clothes for himself in the closet so he usually changed then peeked outside his room looking for Kohane.

Once Kohane entered and checked his temperature she saw his recovery was done she gave him the thumbs up to move around more freely.

When Akito was told the news, he couldn't help but feel excited to go to the shop that sells chocolate with Toya.

"Do you know where his highness is at the moment?" Akito already knew, but he knew it would be weird if he just got up and made his way around the castle like he knew the place already. 

Kohane nodded, smiling as she stood "Please, follow me to the training grounds." 

"Alright thank you..." Akito trailed behind Kohane silently, he wondered if they were still looking for the ginger cat with how much time has passed... He really had to find a way to replace that "cat" with another cat (this time a REAL cat) of it. But that would be near impossible...

After a while of walking down the halls, and some small talk with Kohane. Akito saw Toya just sitting on the bench in the training ground. His eyes closed and his face relaxed.

"Sleeping? Out here?"  Akito sneaked closer, staring down at Toya. Suddenly he felt the urge to squish the others face.

Poke... Poke...

Toya still didn't move. Was he really deep asleep?

Squish... Squish...

Akito snickered, suddenly realizing this prince was deep asleep. He began toying with Toyas face.

"Man... If only I had something to write on his face-"

"What are you doing?" Toyas eyes suddenly opened staring up at the ginger.

Akito immediately pulled his hands hand, playing it off as nothing.

"Nothing- Nothing. I was just looking for you and found you asleep is all. Just checking if you were genuinely asleep-" Akito wiped his hands on his pants.

"By messing with my face?..." Toya raised a brow not looking very convinced.

"Are you saying am lying?" Akito took on an offensive look. 

"Of course not Akito..." Toya said, letting the other go free with whatever he was doing. 

Akito gave his usual grin, Toya sighed his own lips breaking into a smile.

Toya stood up leaving his sword he began to walk.

"Follow me,"

Akito hummed, nodding as he trailed behind the other. 

This felt so familiar, how he used to trail after Toya as a cat... But instead this time he actually could talk to the other properly.

After a small while of silence Toya spoke up.

"My brothers- they wanted to meet you."

"They know about me?"

Toya fell silent, giving a small nod looking a bit guilty thinking Akito wasn't wanting him to share the fact he was in the castle.

"I told them..."

"Huh, alright-. Its fine don't worry, I just didn't think you would that's all-"

"Come..."

Toya continued to walk afterwards, openjng the dining hall he opened, looking around. But seeing no one he closed it. Staring at the knob.

"I don't know where they are..."  Toya thought, panicking in his mind. Feeling like he looked stupid in front of Akito. He began walking again.

Akito could read Toyas face much better now. At least since he's known the man for much longer than the other knew.

Akito could tell Toya was A bit lost. He wanted to laugh, but he held himself back.

Toya continued walking, looking like a lost puppy trying to find his other siblings. Peeking inside door after door.

But when he still didn't find anyone he stood there, then finally turned to Akito

"..."

"You don't know where they are do you?..."

"Yeah..."

"..."

"..."

The two stared at each other, and Akito finally burst into laughter not being able to hold it back when making eye contact.

Toya flinched, but seeing Akito's large smile and laugh he felt another his belly twist and flutter again.

Feeling embarrassed he looked down avoiding Akito's gaze.

Although Toya had such a dead pan face displaying no blush. His ears began turning red at the tips. Indicating his embarrassment.

Akito noticed this, holding back his laughter he patted Toya on the shoulder.

"Hah- its fine!- its fine!- its just- am sorry- you looked-"

Akito couldn't form the words. He wanted to see how Toya would look looking lost for quite a while now. Since the other always knew what to do and where to go- but he looked so lost it made one feel guilty for laughing-

But not Akito.

he continued to laugh his ass off not finishing his sentence. And as he laughed Toyas ears only grew more red and red. His hands clenching as he just stood there.

"Fuck!- Am sorry your highness!-"

He gasped his tummy finally starting to hurt. Toya looked absolutely adorable, when Akito finally began to calm down he began to speak again.

"Its alright... Lets just do something else in the meantime..."

Toya was suddenly really quiet, but when Akito finally stopped laughing he looked up and nodded.

He hasn't been as embarrassed as this before. He was pretty feared since he looked scary so no one even dared to laugh at him. Much less anger him.

But Akito- he laughed so freely and looked so- natural while doing it.

It was new to Toya, a feeling he wasn't sure he would even get used to at all.

But it was a nice one he found himself enjoying if it was from Akito.

Chapter Text

Truth be told, Toya already knew who Akito was. He wasn't stupid, he knew this man was his precious "cat."

He had figured it out after Rui had said some stuff had been moved around in his little office.

And when they investigated Rui had said that the potion was drank from a low bowl.

seemingly a poor mimic of a cat bowl if thought of from Toyas perspective

And when Toya had asked Mafuyu she had said that the cat was found in this exact room when they were looking for the cat.

Toya had long been knowing who this mysterious ginger was. Mafuyu had found that out long ago but Toya was still looking for evidence to make it clear.

But now he could clearly see it was true, Akito hadn't pushed him away nights ago. When he could've, it was a test to see if Akito was truly used to his touch.

He used to hold the cat like that, and Akito relaxed way too quickly. Plus its weird that someone is so willing to hang around Toya without being a maid / Mafuyu / Kohane / Or his father, or one of his brothers.

No one was so open to him. No one spoke his mind to Toya. No one was so at ease near him.

But why wouldn't Akito tell him who he was? Was he here for some reason? Was he a spy?

Why did he stay low for so long? If he was an assassin he could've killed him long ago already. 

Asleep, poison, using magic.

But not only that Akito had tried escaping, which was when Toya hadn't known that Akito was his cat.

It made sense now since the ginger was able to enter the castle so easily.

And he found clothes deep in his closet that were used. A white suit that the man had at the ball.

But why wasn't he saying anything? Why wasn't Akito even bringing it up?

Doesn't he want to tell Toya the truth?

Is he planning something?

No. He probably isn't, but Toya couldn't say for sure that Akito wasn't up to something.

Mafuyu had told Toya who Akito really was, he was the high ranking knight from the light kingdom.

The king from the light kingdom had been looking for him all the time Akito was here with him.

Although he had tried to escape multiple times now. why wouldn't he just leave now that he was human?

It would be so easy to leave. Why wasn't he asking to be sent back?

Toyas mind spun, thinking all of this as Akito laughed at him.

But he couldn't bring himself to question Akito, he didn't want the other to worry.

He didn't want him to leave.

He didn't want him to go home yet, just stay a little longer.

So he played dumb, at least for now. He didn't want Akito to catch on. So he'll allow the other to so as he wanted.

As long as he stayed, that was enough.

Toya knew he wouldn't keep Akito against his will. Even if he wanted to he wouldn't dare make the other hate him. Or feel trapped.

So as long as Akito wanted to he could stay.

He'd cover him from being spotted by his father, with the help of Kohane and Mafuyu.

Chapter Text

As Akito and Toya walked alongside each other, talking about stuff they used to believe as children, Toya seemed to almost be lost in thought-

Almost.

But Akito brushed it off, continuing to walk and talk with no exact destination in mind. 

-

But in Toyas mind with each word he exchange with Akito he felt more sure this was man was his "pet cat".

With the way he seemed to be able to read his deadpan face, but only people who've been around Toya for years could manage something like that. Or spent the last month stuck with him. 

Plus the cat had the same yellow streak from its head all the way down its tail. Almost like how Akito has a yellow strand.

-

Akito was unaware of Toyas building awareness, seeing the other so at ease felt so nice. He wanted to stay human a little longer to keep talking with Toya.

Its not like he needs to turn into a cat anytime soon anyway. So it didn't matter.

They walked past the open doors to the library, suddenly a voice called out to them.

"Toya!- who's that?"

Akito immediately looked over into the library, seeing the king (Toyas father) And two men that seemed older than Toya, but looked similar to Toya.

Toya looked at Akito for a while, then he opened his mouth to speak.

"Akito."

"Oh?- your friend?"

"Mh."

"Hello- we've heard much about you, Akito."

Akito smiled, shaking one of the brothers hand. He didn't know they're names, he couldn't exactly try to guess either.

"Really? I heard quite a bit about you two as well."

What a fat ass lie...

Toya was silent, just standing next to Akito. Watching him talk with his family so freely. How nice... He gets along quite well with them and its only been a few minutes...

+1 point for Akito. (Author) + another reason for Toya to wife him up.

Toya trailed after Akito watching as he greeted the family. 

"Toya, don't you wanna give the poor guest some space?" Asked  Shuji smiling seeing his brother just trail after the ginger looking lost in his own castle.

Toya just stared at him, then shook his head and held onto the edge of Akito's sleeve, continuing to trail after Akito.

Akito just began exploring the library while the king watched him. Almost glaring...

"I've never seen Toya attached to someone at the hip before, other then when he was a child..." Whispered Natsuomi. But the other brother only laughed continuing to nod.

Toyas father glared harder.

"GOD DAMN WHAT DID I DO NOW?"  Akito tried his best to ignore the glare from Toyas father. 

Toya didn't even realize his dad was glaring at Akito.

Akito shuddered, stepping away from Toya immediately.

Toya was surprised, thinking Akito felt uncomfortable he took a step away.

Another kicked puppy moment.

Shuji cleared his throat, seeing the two distance themselves from each other because of his father he immediately pointed something out.

"Father, please have a look at this. I think this could work well if we just..." He pointed at a paper blocking the view of Akito and Toya.

Their father- Harumichi turned to face Shuji staring over at what he pointed out immediately getting into a small discussion on what he could do instead.

Secretly Shuji smiled over at Akito and gave him a small thumbs up.

Natsuomi acted as if he saw nothing, simply turning around whistling as he looked up at the painted ceiling. "What a nice shade of paint..."

"FUCK YOUR AN ANGEL!"  Akito laughed inside his own mind, tugging on Toyas sleeve dragging him deeper into the library.

Toya was confused, but happy to spend more time with Akito he didn't dare question his ginger. and went with the flow.

Chapter Text

By now months truly had past, Akito had found out from Kohane. That one of Toyas brothers Shuji. Was going to have a ball in a good 2 months since his birthday was arriving on the same day.

Akito walked alongside Kohane, Toya wasn't here at the moment since his father had called up all 3 brothers into the throne room to hold a meeting of some sort.

Whatever it was he and Kohane knew it probably wasn't anything too important. 

It was much too early for something to happen anyway.

Akito entered the dining hall then the kitchen, trailing after Kohane who turned around and smiled.

"Sir Shinonome. You don't need to do anything, just sit down."

"Huh?- you don't have to call me Shinonome, or sir."

"... Akito- please sit down,"

"Your gonna clean right? I can help."

"I couldn't dare allow you to dirty yourself-"

"Its fine, am not royalty am just a normal human. If we work together it'll be quicker anyway."

"Other maids can help!- they'll be arriving soon! Please don't worry-"

"Nah nah, I can help it'll be fine."

"Are you sure...?" 

"Of course, you cared for me when I was sick. The least I can do is help you clean."

Kohane fell silent, looking anxiously at Akito. But seeing how he seemed to know what he was doing as he already started cleaning the kitchen and how he didn't seem to mind it at all she sighed and nodded.

"Thank you... Your a great help..."

"No problem."

The two began cleaning chit chatting away happily, when other maids came in to help they quickly tried to shoo the ginger away. But he was stubborn and didn't leave. Eventually they got the hint that he genuinely wanted to help.

The kitchen was large, but the group managed to finish doing everything in an hour or less.

"That's the last of it..."

Kohane wiped the sweat on her forehead. And Akito nodded after finally being able to sit down after wiping the floors clean.. his knees were killing him...

The other maids had sent them to have a break since they had been cleaning for A while already. And since they were close to already finishing they had nothing more to do.

"You really are a great help Akito..." 

"Its nothing seriously..."

They laughed for A bit before the doors opened. And Toya entered, not alone though... There was A beautiful woman woman in Cyan dress. Having a fan that matched. Prancing behind Toya like a peacock. Laughing at something, but it wasn't obvious at what she was laughing at since Toyas face was straight and almost looked like a frown.

"Haha! Toya your so funny! Has anyone ever told you that...?" The woman laughed, about to pat Toya on the back.

"Stop laughing." He hissed, immediately walking and leaving her behind trying to avoid her like the plague.

Kohane stood up, clearing her throat.

"Your Highness, Rosalind..." Kohane bowed deeply, the girl ignored her though trying to keep "talking" with Toya.

"Hello your highness- Who to the who...?" Akito bowed as well, whispering the last part to Kohane.

"She's from an ally kingdom... But... She's spoiled rotten and a real pain..."

Akito hummed peeking up at the woman. She really was beautiful. But seeing how she was ignoring everyone other than Toya who was literally trying to lose her. And seeing how the maids quite literally scurried away at the sight of her.

Toya forced Akito to stand up, not understanding why his guest was bowing to a spoiled princess.

"Akito-" Toya shook his head not wanting Akito to bow.

"Akito? Is this the new guest?" The princess asked.

"Yes- Am-" 

"Well I don't see how your anyone of importance, Toya dear. Why did you bring some commoner to the palace? If your lonely you could've sent me a paper and I can visit more!" The princess cut Akito off.

"No." Toya practically hissed, and suddenly he scurried away from Akito and ran out of the dining hall as the princess gave chase.

Soon there was a maid running after them panting.

"Your highness Rosalind!- stop running!" The chubby maid cried, having seen the two set off again she just sighed and continued running after them.

"Princess Rosalind has... Always clung to Toya since they were young, having fallen in love with his highness at A young age... They were suppose to be finances... But Toya refused to even be friends with her. Even going as far to jump into a pond in the garden to hide from her from they were younger. He befriended the frogs that day..."

Kohane paused, thinking what to say next.

"Although Toyas father originally wanted them to be together his mother said no. Not wanting to force the poor boy into a marriage he doesn't want. And after Toyas mother said no, his father never even dared to bring it up again, not wanting to go against his beloved."

Akito was shocked, suddenly feeling a surge of jealousy seeing Toya being chased. But he didn't know why. He couldn't chose who Toya ended up with anyway, why did it matter to him?

"But although Toyas father now really doesn't want the princess coming over at all anymore. Since he found out how annoying and how much of a bad character she has... He doesn't want to make an enemy of her kingdom so he just lets her stay as short as we can keep her around..."

"Ah, that must suck..." Akito muttered, internally greatful that Toya was avoiding her like the plague. Kohane and him peeked out of the dining hall. Starting to walk down the hallway.

"Let's go help his highness-" 

"I've got this." An icy cold voice came from behind them. It was Mafuyu, she had a tight grip of her sword. Starting to run down the hallway with a death glare.

Next to her was A 6ft purple haired boy with some blue. 

"Ah~ yoyoyo, Mafuyu don't scare the poor girl to death again!~" He said, laughing. But he looked sarcastic and even gave forth a burst of power to Mafuyu.

"But no one's telling you not to kill it either..." He added in a more hushed tone. His joy leaving for A second.

Akito wanted to laugh, Kohane also held her breath leaning against the wall with her hand to not fall over.

"Fuck- you really weren't lying when you said that Toya didn't like her!" Akito laughed, Kohane held her own laugh back starting to squeak.

"Yes- none of us do..."

As they walked further up all together, they entered a spearing hallway with four new halls to enter. In the middle Mafuyu was between Rosalind and Toya.

"Toya! Don't you want to walk around in the gardens like when we were kids!~"

"No."

"Haha!- don't play hard to get you know you really did miss me!"

"I missed when you left."

"You always say that... Toya dear come on I'll leave you alone afterwards I promise!"

"Mh."

"Is that a yes?"

"No."

Toya practically was using Mafuyu as a shield, cowering behind the woman he was taller than.

When Toya spotted Akito his eyes widened and softened immediately.

"Akito-"

Akito cleared his throat, the princess rolled her eyes staring over at the ginger.

"And you are?"

"Akito, but to what displeasure do I have to meet you?"

Akito held out his hand, having a fake smile upon his face. But the princess only gave a faker smile in return.

"Ha. Ha. Ha. What displeasure do I have to shake your hand?"

"Ha..."

"Your funny..." She hissed.

"And your funny looking." Akito hissed back, both of them glaring at each other. It was obvious Mafuyu was shocked, same as to Rui, Kohane, and Toya. 

But the princess wasn't used to being told something so rude. And Akito refused to back down.

The glare and snarky remarks kept going back and forth. Jabbing at each other before Rosalind grabbed Toyas arm and began tugging him away.

"You need better friends Toya my love." She hissed, smirking at Akito as she called Toya "love".

"You need a better attitude peacock." Akito hissed back, and he grabbed Toyas other arm, and tugged him back.

The two already didn't get along, it wasn't even an hour and they were at each others throats.

"Me and Toya have some business to attend. Am taking him to pick a birthday gift for his brother." The ginger was hinting at the princess to fuck off. But she refused to back down now.

"Yeah and am a flying donkey." Rosalind frowned..

"Oh so you've finally come to your senses?" 

"Ginger your getting on my nerves!"

"Peacock your pissing me off!"

Chapter Text

In the end the chubby maid came over from a random hallway and tugged Rosalind away.

"Your highness... You've ran around the castle... aren't you tired?"

"No. But hold my shoes I have a bone to pick with someone."

"Oh yeah? I'll kick your ass!"

"Toya dear! Your friend is bullying me!"

Toya only turned a blind eye, staring at A plant and even petting the leaves.

Akito laughed, snickering as he glanced at the princess.

"Wow~ I guess we knows who's not getting married to a prince anytime soon.~"

"YOU LITTLE SHIT-"

Rosalind was about to jump onto Akito, but Mafuyu caught her in a magical bubble and took her away.

"Am sorry... We shouldn't have let you deal with our problems Akito..." She said, sending the bubble away down the opposite hallway sending her into a room. Probably her guest room.

"If you have to deal with that, I would see why you don't like her very much."

Toya hopped over towards Akito happily.

"His highness, was looking for you... Before he was called forth by his father to- distract Rosalind..." Mafuyu explained.

"Yeah- I think that's obvious..."

Toya tugged Akito down a hallway.

"Bye Akito!" Kohane said waving as she turned down another hall.

Akito waved back, watching as Toya turned and led him out to A new and different garden.

"A new garden?"

"Its actually been here already... Just wanted a new path to walk..."

Toya held Akito's hand, leading him through the maze made of hedges and paths. Over towards a large tree in the middle of the maze. 

Toya sat underneath the tree then tugged Akito down to sit as well.

"Are we just sitting here?"

"Mhm..."

Akito was confused at first, then Toya leaned his head against Akito's shoulder. Slowly closing his eyes.

Akito laughed silently leaning his head against Toyas. Humming a small tune watching as Toya fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Time skip bc I actually want to write smt really bad.

+1 month later...

Akito and Toya had barely returned from buying the gifts together, lately Rosalind has been... Much more nice and pleasant to be around.

Instead of ignoring Akito and arguing with him, she's been being much more kind and helpful. Although Rui tells Akito to keep an eye out, he doesn't see what could go wrong.

'Akito. She's planning something. She never gets close unless your about to become a victim to something."

Akito brushed the words off. Not thinking too much on Rui's warning.

Akito and Rosalind were just in the library, talking and actually laughing together.

"You know, your not so bad Rosalind."

"You too, Akito."

The ginger and her were going through old random books together. Something they decided to do after getting along so well...

Hearing multiple footsteps Akito turned about to go see who it was. But the princess tugged him back and smiled.

"Let's surprise them!" She said.

Akito smiled and nodded.

"Sure- but lemme just get a peak."

"No need!- its more fun when it's a surprise!" Rosalind insisted.

Akito nodded eventually agreeing, and they both fled behind a bookshelf.

Akito was peeking out. Seeing a small peek of sandy blonde pigtails sticking out then disappear from a bookshelf facing him and Rosalind. But he ignored it. About to turn around and tell Rosalind that the person was coming- only to hear a sudden scream from behind and see Rosalind have a knife stuck in her side and she stared at Akito screaming again.

"What are you-" Akito was about to speak, but Rosalind screamed louder cutting him off.

Akito came closer to her wanting to help her take it out as he grabbed the knife to keep it steady. But she fell back acting as though Akito had stabbed her.

"You!- you monster!" She cried, her eyes watery as maids behind Akito gasped and ran towards the princess.

Another maid- which was Rosalinds maid... Ran to help Rosalind, taking something from her princess. Then ran to tell someone

Suddenly Akito knew why Rui had warned him.

She was wearing gloves... Akito had touched the knife, without gloves.

He was framed, and this would be hard to do anything against. Because suddenly those gloves of evidence were gone...

Suddenly Toya was bursting into the library and shoved Akito back.

"Akito!"

"Toya- wait- wait I didn't-"

For once, Toya didn't listen to him. And ran to Rosalinds side helping her up.

"is it because I love his highness Toya!?" Rosalind cried, acting ever so innocent making Akito more angry.

"I just wanted to be friends with you-" She said, as Toya picked her up carefully.

Akito could understand why Toya cared for the princess more. She was wounded, and if she died in the dark kingdoms castle they would be blamed for her death and lose an ally.

Akito's throat fell dry, he wanted to help. He really did. But seeing Toya look so angry, he stared at her and without thinking-

"SHUT UP-"Akito slapped her without a second thought.

He knew it didn't look good. It would make him look like he was guilty.

But in the end he ran without thinking. 

"AKITO!" Toya yelled, Angrily as Akito fled. But he held the wounded princess at the moment. So he couldn't give chase.

No one noticed since everyone was busy to help the princess in Toyas arms.

Akito ran past Kohane who's eyes were wide. She was peeking out from the same bookshelf, she blinked and tried to stop Akito.

"Akito!-"

"I didn't-"

He didn't stop to listen to her. He knew no one would believe him, he really was just getting lucky with having everything go so smoothly.

He shoved past people. Running past unsuspecting Mafuyu and Rui.

Then he jumped out a open window, jumping into a bush and turning into a cat.

Where he used his smaller body to run away from the castle.

Running till the sky went dark, running till he heard nothing other than hoots and dead leaves.

When he stopped running, he was in the middle of a large farming field. Akito was tired and thirsty. Remembering how the last time he had tried to flee Toya had found him.

Suddenly he didn't want Toya to find him at all.

He suddenly just wanted to go home. To avoid the other at all costs. If this was the last time he saw Toya, this would be best. He and Toya have no future together anyway.

"What a stupid dream I had for the both of us..."

He mumbled, turning back into a human suddenly feeling his eyes water. 

But he refused to cry, he could understand why Toya had sided with the princess now. She really was more cunning and smarter.

Akito had let her kindness blind him, and now he had lost the man so he had spent his best days with because of being framed.

Toya must've thought he was no better than Rosalind now- no... Even worse, he must've thought that Rosalind was actually kind and nice, while Akito was the opposite of what he thought.

He forced himself to stand and walk, finally wanting to head back to the light kingdom.

Hoping to forget the small life he had made in the dark. Hoping to move to the light after.

Chapter Text

After Toya had carried Rosalind to the royal doctor he immediately dropped her onto the bed and stepped out.

Once he knew Rosalind was alright he really didn't care to stick around.

"Your highness- I have something for you..."

Kohane whispered, but Toya turned his head away. About to set off.

"Your looking for Akito right?..." 

He suddenly turned back and nodded.

"He has fled your highness."

And now Toyas world was crumbling.

He immediately took long strides up to her and began shaking her for answers.

"After being framed-"

"Framed?"

Toya asked actually talking for once. Which surprised Kohane a little but she nodded and explained as best as she could.

"And then. He left, he jumped out a window and didn't look back."

Toya processed this, hearing that Akito had left- He wasn't pleased.

He didn't want Akito to leave, he wanted to keep him around longer. He suddenly didn't care about Rosalind anymore and ran down the hallway looking around the castle.

Hoping to find a ginger with messy hair waiting for him in his room- 

Nothing.

In the dining hall?

Nope.

In the gardens?

No..

After finding this out, he immediately went crazy. Rosalind had her maid go to find Toya and tell him that he could come check on her highness now.

But Toya walked past her his eyes narrowed as he ignored the maid.

He had something much more important to look for at the moment. Someone he couldn't dream to live without now that he's gotten a small feel of how it could be if he could make them his.

Toya had sent people to search around as fast as they could. But they came back fruitless hours later.

Toya dismissed the people, his brothers having came to check on him after hearing the news he was looking for a certain ginger.

But he had them go away and they didn't question him for long. 

He was inside his room crashing out, sitting at the desk as he thought on where and how far the ginger could've gone.

Why now? Why did he have to leave now?

It might be selfish since he's been with Toya for such a while already.

But Toya didn't even get a chance to tell him how he felt, how warm Akito made him feel...

The next few days Toya visited Rosalind in the morning. Otherwise he didn't even go through the hallway to the medic.

He was much to focused on missing his beloved ginger, his mind in turmoil not knowing if Akito was alright at all.

Rosalind saw that Toya still didn't care much about her.

And now she finally gave up.

Much too late though.

Chapter Text

AM SO SORRY THIS STORY WILL BE ON PAUSED FOR A BIT.

Y'all know how I usually post multiple chapters a day and stuff day after day.

Well that tired me out more than I genuinely thought it would.

I love writing with my whole heart and I love seeing your comments on how much you guys enjoy reading this work.

But I need a small break before I can finish writing this story.

NO I WILL NOT BE DISCONTINUING THIS STORY THOUGH. I love this story and love writing it.

I will j ust be on a small break.

So am sorry, but just a few days would be alright for me to come and return.

I just didn't want to leave you all in the dark wondering where I went and when the next update is.

Chapter Text

Akito had been walking for A while, using his cat form to hide away in shade.

As much as he didn't like the feeling of rocks, and what not between his paws he sucked it up and continued to walk, internally scolding himself for not even thinking to grab anything good to help him.

When he finally made it to a village, it was already dark. All the lights were off. Except for some shops, and houses that still had light on inside.

houses were cramped together, and so were some shops. He really couldn't find a good spot to sleep. He entered an alleyway, seeing dogs he quickly climbed up a pipe trying to avoid the wretched beasts.

In the end he jumped down onto a low roof of a shop and slept there peacefully.

By the time he woke up again it was further into the day than he realized. Looking down from his cozy spot on the roof under the sun he saw people already shopping. It was cramped as hell already!

"Fuckkkk... I shouldn't have overslept so much..."  The cat thought. Staring down at the crowded lively area below. He hissed a bit then began looking for a way down.

Seeing that he couldn't go back down the way he came (It was only a way up) he spotted someone selling some veggies with their stand close by.

He squirmed, then jumped. Almost completely missing but he clawed his way up completely ruining the cover for shade.

"Not my problem now! That's a problem for them!"  He was chased out with a broom.

He really didn't think the broom was as scary as animals make it be. But now he was the one being whacked!

FUCK YOU!

He hissed looking back, running between peoples legs and causing even more trouble for himself and those around him.

He was starving, by the time he made it out in one piece. He felt like it was all over now, he meowed pitifully entering a small cafe in an alley further away from the shops. Inside he saw a light brown haired girl, with a name tag 'Minori' on her brown apron that read 'Crase Cafe'.

He entered and meowed loudly trying to get someone to serve him, jumping onto the desk and ringing the bell impatiently his tail thrashing behind him as he did.

The waiter looked over smiling as she scurried near.

"Hello! Welcome to- HUH!?" She looked shocked obviously having expected a living human, but Akito was starving, the once pampered cat now fending for itself was already a new experience.

He narrowed his eyes and meowed again, this time he jumped down and walked towards a booth.

He was almost about to jump onto the seat. But A woman with short brown hair grabbed him and immediately moved to kick him out. Opening the door and tossing him out. Then she turned to the light brown haired girl with a sigh.

"Minori! You know there's no animals allowed!" 

"Am sorry Miss. Meiko!" The girl cried, Bowing down low again and again.

"Its fine- get back to work..."

"Yes Ma'am!" She said, jumping and scurrying to work again.

Akito was still hungry...

"Am A cute cat... C'mon... You know you wanna feed me..."  He entered again, meowing loudly the stern woman came back tossing him out again.

"Stay out!"

"Hmp. No."  Akito went back in, the woman was stubborn on kicking him out though.

Too bad Akito was more stubborn when hungry.

"Minori!- is this another one of your strays you feed!? I told you to stop!-" The woman was already getting annoyed seeing the cat refuse to leave and even claw at the ground to not get picked up and kicked out again.

"No ma'am!- I haven't seen that one around!"  Minori immediately scurried trying to help her grab the cat that clawed at A rug and refused to leave.

"Take it out- I'll deal with the customers..."

"Yes- come on!-" She struggled trying to get the cat to let go. Eventually she just had to take the rug along.

Akito grumbled and hissed, the girl set him down on the ground and crouched in front of him.

"Here..." She whispered, setting down a bit of food. 

"Sorry, Miss. Meiko usually is in the back so I can't feed you openly..." 

"Bingo! I knew someone there loved cats..."  Akito happily ate, letting the girl pet him a bit before she was called back inside.

"Alright, good luck Mr. Kitty..." She whispered, then scurried back inside.

Chapter Text

Akito really wanted to go back to the light kingdom by now, but he couldn't just go off on his own either. It would take way to long to reach the light kingdom by himself... Plus since he was a cat he really couldn't tell where the light kingdom was by now anymore.

He had to also pack some food from the cafe before he left. So he found a small leather bag that he stole from drying laundry hung up. (He was sorry [not].)

Knowing he had to hitch a ride he struggled to find someone who was even leaving the village. The village had a large forest much up ahead, obviously people avoided it, scared wolf's would attack them, which only made Akito's search harder for leaving carts/horses since not many left the village anyway.

Thankfully he had found two tired travelers who had seemed to be resting at the village for A bit with their horses, and asked around looking for a missing person.

Knowing the man and woman with cloaks would eventually leave the said village Akito had kept an tight eye on them from afar, especially after finding out they were heading to the light kingdom. But he never went up close enough to see how they looked.

The ginger stuck around the alley cafe for A few days, but by the 5th day he had left. Having packed the extra food the worker 'Minori' would leave out for him in his human form with the small bag.

Akito walked around in his cat form a little while longer. He had been keeping track of the travelers daily to do. Also making sure to know the due date he would leave.

When the time came, Akito watched as they left the motel with nothing their horses from a pole and headed down the crowded road. 

He quickly ran behind them trailing after them, when they reached the edge of the village they both jumped onto the stallions and rode off.

Akito was a cat, and because of this he rather quickly fell behind. He cursed himself in his mind seeing he was about to lose the travelers.

"Damn it..."  He immediately meowed out loudly, continuing to do so until the travelers slowed down.

When Akito had finally caught up to the horses one of the riders got off. And leaned down to pick him up.

When Akito saw the riders face he suddenly froze in shock.-

Chapter Text

"Aweee, what a cutie!~" The girl said, holding the cat up high.

"Mizuki, we have to get a move on..."

"But Tsukasa-kun~ look at how cute this cat is!"

Tsukasa sighed shaking his head, tugging his hood down.

"Hehe~ look it has a piss strand like Akito!" Mizuki grinned, the cat (who she had no idea was the ginger.) Immediately hissed and clawed at her.

"Oh shit!-" Mizuki immediately dropped the said cat, her hood falling down.

When Akito's paws touched the ground he immediately turned human.

"A- AKITO!?"  Tsukasa yelled, his mouth wide seeing the ginger turn from cat to human.

"LITTLE BRO!?" Mizuki on the other hand was delighted and went in for a hug from him.

"Little bro! I missed you so much!-" Mizuki said, tugging him down for A hug forcefully.

"Ew, get off me." Akito smirked, playfully pushing Mizuki away as she gasped and put a hand to her chest.

"You know you missed me little bro-"

"Um fuck no?" Akito hissed,

Tsukasa immediately shook his head clear and pointed at Mizuki.

"YOUR SERIOUSLY NOT GONNA QUESTION HIM!?" Tsukasa yelled, still on his horse as he screamed.

"huh... Your right! Your in big trouble Shihonome~ Enananan is gonna be pretty pissed with how long you were gone~" Mizuki teased, poking at Akito's arm with her finger. With a hand to her face giggling.

"I should've stayed a cat."

"I SAID QUESTION HIM! NOT ANNOY HIM!" Tsukasa immediately jumped off, tears in his eyes as he jumped onto Akito hugging him tightly.

"We missed you Akito..." Tsukasa whispered, sniffling as he hugged the ginger tightly.

Akito wasn't too surprised, he laughed patting Tsukasa on the back.

"Okay, okay, Mr. Sensitive star. Am here now."

"BE SERIOUS!" Tsukasa yelled, rubbing away his snot and tears.

"Hehe~ I haven't seen you cry this much since there was a centipede on you~" Mizuki said, ruffling Tsukasa head with a grin.

"Why can't you guys be normal...?" Tsukasa sniffled.

"We are normal. Your not." Akito said, smiling as he crossed his arms.

Akito rode on Mizuki's bag in her lap as a cat. The three were looking for a place to set up camp.

Now that the trio was back together, Mizuki talked non-stop. Purposely nudging the cat in her bag. Making snarky remarks.

"hehe~ lil bro, hey hey lil bro- don't ignore me now."

Tsukasa had his horse slow down to be next to Mizuki's talking about everyone back at the light kingdom and how they were looking for Akito.

It made Akito feel bad, but he couldn't feel guilt for long because Mizuki was always saying something. Making the cat hiss and slap her with his paws.

"Owie... Lil bro..." Mizuki faked tears, wiping them with her fingers innocently.

They had camp set up by sundown, a campfire going while Tsukasa set up a tent for all of them. Though he wanted to cast a spell to get rid of any insects that might go into the tent while they slept. So he spent much of his time thinking of which spell to use.

Akito was talking for A while about his trail to the village and how he chose to follow the 'travelers' that were uncovered to be Mizuki and Tsukasa. As him and Mizuki talked as they sat on a log.

Mizuki was finally silent, and Akito was laughing as he spoke staring into the fire. But when he looked up he saw Mizuki crying.

"Fuck what happened?...-" Akito asked, feeling worried as he leaned closer.

Mizuki wiped her tears, tugging Akito in for a hug.

"I was so scared- I thought you died Akito..."

She whispered, hugging Akito tightly scared of letting go, scared if she did Akito would disappear again.

"Mizuki... You know you could've cried back then as well right?" 

"Someone had to make Tsukasa laugh..."

"But you can't run away from your fears either..."

"ah, give me a break..."

Akito patted her back, wiping her tears for her before saying how funky she looked sad.

The two laughed the tears off in the end as Tsukasa came out looking rather pleased with his sad tent.

Akito sighed in defeat as Mizuki tried her best to compliment the blonde on his work...

Chapter Text

Toya hadn't slept well in weeks by now, staring at the ceiling rolling around in his bed.

There were still cat toys tossed around the floor. He couldn't bring himself to move anything of Akito's, refusing to even clean out the guest room the ginger used.

tonight was another restless night, Toya had grown so used to having Akito around too quickly, his father had worked so hard to make sure Toya wouldn't grow attached to anything after his mother died.

But he didn't think to count the ginger his son kept seeing and clinging to.

But Toya couldn't help himself from falling deeply in love with Akito. In fact, he thought if it was anything bad. The only bad part was being apart from his beloved.

Toya had become too used to having the ginger around. He almost forgot the man belong to another kingdom, that he wasn't Toyas lover and didn't live with him in the castle like in those fairy tails mother used to read him.

Mafuyu had known everything by now, she had sat Toya down and told him that Akito probably was just a spy from the light, to not expect to ever see the ginger again. To stop waiting for him.

But Toya refused to believe her, every night she would enter and ask the prince if he's come to understand how nothing was real.

Toya refused to believe her. If Akito really was only a spy, he didn't have to stick around for so long. He had Toya wrapped around his finger the moment Toya had felt Akito in his arms at the night of the ball.

If he wanted something he could've had it in a hot minute even if he wanted to...

But Toya felt sad knowing he never got to take Akito out to that shop he promised to take him to.

Harumichi had come by tonight, seeing his son look so much more robotic. Seeing Mafuyu exit and shake her head signaling the boy refused to listen...

The man had caved he sent Mafuyu off to rest and he entered.

"Toya." Harumichi said, entering the room.

Toya immediately sat up quickly, about to stand up from his bed. But his father only shook his bed and signaled him to lay back down.

"This... Friend of yours..." The grey haired man sighed, thinking what he was gonna say. 

Yes, he had trained Toya to play and do everything like he wanted treating his own son as a doll since he was young. But he didn't mean for his son to grow so detached from him... To even maybe hate him without him knowing.

He cared for his youngest so much- that he wanted to protect him from everything. Thinking that if he trained him day and night he would have the heart of steel that would protect him from the things even Harumichi couldn't avoid.

Harumichi only wanted the best for Toya, he didn't want him to close off like a robot. He just wanted to keep him safe from the dangers of being hurt... Of losing someone... Especially after his own beloved died...

But when that... Ginger... Came into the castle, and that funky cat. Which last time he saw he was sure it was way to fat to be A cat-

Toya had actually made so many different improvements, he actually spoke more than two words- He actually smiled and did everything to make sure his 'friend' was allowed to stay.

Even saying he promised he would choose a bride quickly and comply with whoever his father set him up with.

But, Harumichi quickly shot that down. He didn't want to control his son's life anymore. After finally seeing how closed off his son was because of himself- he wanted to do his youngest a favor.

"He's from the light right?..."

"Father... I know you don't approve of-"

"No. It's not that Toya."

"Then what is it...?"

"I've come to an agreement with the king of the light... We're going over in a few days to settle everything."

"What are you proposing- father?-"

"Your friend is from the light kingdom is he not? So he'll be there."

"You really mean it?-"

"Yes Toya,"

Harumichi watched as his sons eyes widened with hope immediately. His grey orbs shining at the small mention of maybe seeing that specific ginger again.

"I promise- I'll marry whoever you want me-" 

"Then marry that ginger your trying to find." Harumichi had known for A while that his son had fallen for his 'friend'.

Toyas mouth suddenly froze, blinking trying to listen correctly.

"Toya. I'm not dumb, I know who that ginger really is to you."

"Father... Your- okay with that...?"

"With him? No. I think it would be better if he was from a noble family from the dark.-"

"No- Father... With the fact he's a man..."

"Toya... I may be old school, I may not like him very much since he's a nuisance to have around...- But I won't keep you from loving someone just because they are the same gender. Your happiness is much more important than marrying a princess you'll never grow to love."

Toya grew silent, Harumichi stood for A while longer than sat down at the edge of the bed.

"That... nuisance of a man... is important to you right...?"

"Yes- yes he is very important to me." Toya choked out, holding back his own overflowing emotions.

"Then its settled... We'll head to the light kingdom, find your beloved nuisance. I'm sure I'll grow used to him eventually..."

"Your serious...?"

"Yes Toya."

"Thank you- Dad..." Toya hugged his father, Harumichi was surprised. His own eyes were wide now instead.

Toya hadn't even hugged him since he was a kid trailing after him and looking up to his father with innocent grey eyes.

"Thank you..." Toya repeated, pulling away after a while longer.

"Get some rest." Harumichi stood, patted Toyas head then left.

Toya nodded, immediately tucking himself in like a happy kid being told he was going to a festival the next day.

Chapter Text

Akito stumbled as he stepped out of the shitty tent that they let Tsukasa make and even let him keep up.

Akito had a shit ass sleep. With Tsukasa snoring and Mizuki rolling around like a dog, he had gotten kicked in the back during the night, and had a foot shoved up his ass when he went to use the bathroom in the middle of the night.

He could've sworn he had heard a snicker from inside the tent but when he looked back inside there was a passed out Mizuki and A dead (sleeping) Tsukasa.

This morning he was ready to get on the way to the kingdom already. He went ahead and began packing everything while the other two head knights slept.

Akito didn't take too long to clean up their sad camp. He found a nearby lake that he untied the horses and led them to drink out of the lake and tied them to a nearby branch from a tree.

While the horses drank their water from the lake. Akito began preparing some lunch for the road. He had found some bread and what not, enough to make some tortas (Fat breaded sandwhiches) for the road.

He peeked inside the tent when he was all done cleaning up and packed away their lunch. Mizuki was awake just laying there in her sleeping bag.

"Lil bro...? Did you already clean everything up...?" She asked, rubbing her eyes. Looking sleepy and acting as though she's just woken up.

"Yeah am finished-"

"Oh good! I've been waiting for the past 20 minutes to get up!" Suddenly Mizuki's once 'tired' face had her usual grin as she turned to Tsukasa. Any sign of looking sleepy out the window once she heard everything was cleaned up.

"You fucking bitch-"

"Tsukasa! Wake up! Lets go!" Mizuki ignored the ginger that gave her a death glare. She shook awake the other male who jumped awake.

"What happened?-" Tsukasa mumbled, rubbing the back of his head as he sat up, the only one between him and Mizuki who actually was sleeping the whole time.

"Lets start getting on the horses. Akito just cleaned up everything!" Mizuki walked out of the tent, looking for her horse as she walked around in her night gown looking dazed and confused as she adjusted to the light.

"Take a left asshole." Akito called out, Mizuki gave a sound of understanding as she jogged barefoot over to their horses near a lake. Grabbing her usual clothes and moving to change behind her horse.

Akito and Tsukasa didn't say anything, turning away to give their female companion her privacy. The two males began taking apart the shitty tent.

"You could've woken me up Akito, I would've helped!" Tsukasa stated, helping the ginger who waved him off.

"And have you scream and drop everything when you see a bug? Am good."

"Your teasing me aren't you. Doesn't it tire y-"

"Fuck there's a spider!" 

"WHERE!?"

"Gotcha." Akito grinned, immediately the blonde turned away embarrassed. But he still kept an eye out for that darn spider.

The trio made their way through the forest, Mizuki had her hair down as she rode on her horse. Too lazy to tie her loose hair up. Akito rode on her horse as well, digging through the bags as Tsukasa mentioned being hungry.

"I packed some sandwiches," Akito offered Tsukasa one, Mizuki immediately held her hand out for one as well.

"Eat up."

"Thank you, Akito!"

"Thanks Mama Aki~"

"..."

"What?"

Chapter Text

Toya walked through the palace, today was the day that he and his father- would actually go somewhere... Together. And not only that! They were heading into enemy territory! All because Toya's father realized that his son had a crush on a damn knight in the light kingdom... Ah Toya really couldn't thank his father more...

Toya was so nervous, as much as he missed holding onto Akito. And pampering the other, he didn't know what to say when he saw him again... He was trying to think of what he could say to the other when he does see him again- the thought made him feel so nervous and his tummy was doing flips.

Kohane and Mafuyu trailed behind Toya, Kohane patting him on the back smiling trying to make sure Toya wasn't so nervous. While Mafuyu held a small gift box, her face gave away nothing on how she felt. But Kohane smiled, reading her dead panned best friends like a book either way. 

Toya had personally picked out the gift... He had known Akito had liked sweets, and since they didn't get to attend the cafe Toya had said they should quite a while ago- he had bought a handful and had them personally packed by himself!

Toya hadn't ever packed gifts, truth be told Kohane usually picked them in his stand and said Toya had actually picked them every time it was another persons birthday or whatever.

Toya hadn't usually cared to bring gifts and genuinely think and wonder what the person would think about it.

But when it came to Akito- that was a different story. 

Akito was genuinely someone Toya wanted to spend more time with- If Akito would let him.

"(And maybe we can become something much, much more than friends...)" Toya thought, climbing into the carriage.

His father sat silently on one side, Kohane smiled handing the box of chocolates to Toya. Then she closed the door.

Kohane and Mafuyu rode up front, Mafuyu was the one driving the carriage while Kohane just sat.

...

Silence.

Toyas father had his eyes closed before, but now they were opened. and staring openly at his son in front of him.

"There's A girl, your age. Shes the light kingdoms princess..."

"What?"

"Befriend her."

"..."

"I'm bringing you to meet your... Ginger, so at least make another friend that's not Kohane, the princess is a nice girl... Am sure she'll make a great alley for when your king."

"I'm gonna be king!?" Suddenly Toya sat up straight, his face complex as he stared at his father with wide eyes.

"Well... Yes...-"

"Me!?- king!?"

"Toya. Your an adult now, and your more than capable of ruling A kingdom with your age."

"But- father- I don't think-..."

"You'll do fine- and it won't be anytime soon. But you are my top choice."

"What about my brothers-"

"They vouched for you."

"?..."

"You'll be fine, your not gonna become king in a month. More like in another ten years, Toya."

"You think I'll be A perfect king?..."

"No,"

"Ah-"

"No one is a perfect king. But I know you'll be A great one at least."

"Really?..."

"Yes, I believe so..."

Toya was silent again, Toyas father stared at him. And let out a slow and calm laugh.

"Your 20 Toya... I didn't become king until I was in my mid 30's. You have plenty of time to still play around."

Toya was surprised to hear his father laugh. But- for once the man was calm. And he was actually smiling from joy... And he wasn't doing a fake laugh either. It was A genuine one...

Toya found himself laughing a little as well.

"Thank you, father."

"Am sure your friends, Kohane and Mafuyu would be very pleased to know their beloved prince is next in line for the throne."

"They will..."

"Do you know what you'll tell your ginger yet?"

"No..."

"Better start thinking, son."

Chapter Text

Mizuki was fanning herself like crazy. Sitting outside on the training grounds bench.

"Ugh.... Did we HAVE to train just as we got back!?" She cried, wiping a fake tear as Akito personally fed her a glass of water.

"Shut up, I missed quite a few days without training." Akito rolled his eyes, frowning as Tsukasa came in front behind holding drinks for himself and Akito.

"Akito! Here's A water." Tsukasa smiled, Akito nodded. Now forcing Mizuki to hold her own drink as she signed.

"Enananan is gonna come back from her search for you soon~ am sure she'll be super happy to see we brought home her annoying, RUDE, bitchy, ginger, piss strand brother~" 

"I'm gonna kick your ass if you keep pissing me off."

"Nuh uh~." Mizuki laughed, immediately scooting away though. Not wanting to catch Akito's fade at the moment.

Akito watched as Tsukasa went to sit between them, leaning against the railing behind them as the trio just sat there. Enjoying a small breeze.

"AAA-KI-TOOOO!" An screamed, running full speed as her heels fell off and right behind her A certain knight named Shiho was picking them up.

When Akito saw An, he stood and immediately stood from the bench and began running. Seeing she was running full speed, he wasn't gonna just let her jump and tumble him onto the ground!

But in the end he was jumped. An held onto him screaming and yelling at him for disappearing. All while sniffling as she fell into the other.

"We looked everywhere for you! We almost thought the dark kingdom stole you!"

"Well... More like I ran into a certain dark prince..."  Akito thought, patting An on her head as she switched from screaming and crying.

Shiho was right behind her, the knight sighed as she watched An scream at the ginger.

"Am glad your back Akito." Shiho said, holding out a hand as Akito struggled to stand with the princess clinging to him.

"Finally... Someone is normal about it..." 

"Well, I was worried. But your too Stubborn to let something happen to yourself." Shiho smiled, pulling the grunting ginger up.

"Ah, fuck you." Akito laughed, ruffling Shiho's hair.

An was putting back on her heels, struggling to reach over her dress since she was wearing a much bigger one at the moment.

"You look so stupid-" Akito teased.

"Shut up furry! I'm trying out a new dress okay!?" An hissed back immediately.

"FURRY!?" 

"YEAH, YOU FUCKING FURRY."

"YOU SON OF A-"

"Son of a who?" Akito and An fell silent, turning as they saw Ken. Smiling as he saw the princess and knight arguing like normal once again.

"Your highness..."

"Your majesty..." 

All the knights bowed, other than An who pulled Akito up.

"Dad! Look who's back!-"

"I know, I know, we all missed you Akito."

"Yes- I know... Am sorry for disappearing for so long. Your highness." Akito whispered, his head hung a little low.

Ken sighed, pulling the ginger in for a hug.

"What matters is that your alright." Ken pat Akito on the back, An watched for A bit. But in the end she joined in on the hug.

"Don't leave me again. Your one of my bestest of friends..." An whispered.

Shiho, Tsukasa, Mizuki all watched a moment longer. Before moving to join in the hug.

They all stood there for A while. At least before there was an angry scream of Akito's name.

"AKITO SHINONOME." A girl screamed, stomping down the halls.

Immediately everyone pulled away, taking multiple steps back.

Akito turned around immediately, hearing the woman's voice- he felt so relieved-

But before he could turn around fully, his head turned right back around, a hand connected with his cheek, hard.

He felt his face, feeling a hand print already moving in.

"Where the FUCK were you!?" Ena cried, pulling Akito down into a tight embrace.

"I- I looked everywhere for you! I was so fucking worried!"

"Ena-"

"Shut up! You don't get to speak when you left for MONTHS!" 

"I'm sorry-"

"I HOPE YOU FUCKING ARE!"

Akito could feel his older sister trembling, he carefully wrapped his arms around her. Holding onto her tightly.

Akito could hear Ena start crying, small tears turning into a waterfall.

"I thought you fucking died Aki..."

"Am sorry-"

"Don't leave me again..."

"I won't..."

Akito could feel his own eyes start to burn, holding onto his older sister tightly. Ena was already weak in the knees, falling down with Akito onto their knees as they held onto each other.

"Mum made your favorite... "

"Really...?"

"Yeah..."

"Let's go home."

"Good idea..."

"I did your laundry cause it stank... You owe me 20$."

"Seriously!?"

"Shut up. You were gone for too long. Your not allowed to yell at me until you've been here for 24 hours."

"Fair enough...."

Chapter Text

Toya was almost giddy, peeking out the window again and again. His father having fallen asleep in the corner of his seat.

But Toya was awake the whole ride (most of it.) He was always asking Kohane how much longer until they made it. And the maid would smile and remind him again and again.

"Your highness. It is improper to keep asking after being told..." Mafuyu reminded Toya, but she also wasn't scolding him either. 

Also seeming to be excited seeing her prince all excited.

Kohane read through them like two books quickly. And she handed each a piece of bread that she packed as snacks.

"There's no rush. And it's quite alright if he's excited to see Akito again." Kohane smiled as she looked ahead once again. Her hands passing around napkins to place the bread in case they wanted to set it aside.

Toya stayed peeking out of the window. His father was dead asleep next to him, but it wasn't an awkward feeling either of being on edge to accidentally wake him.

And for once Toya wasn't silent and seated the entire ride and actually engaged in conversation.

Which was adorable to Kohane and Mafuyu. Since Toya looked like an excited kid waiting to see their long awaited destination.

Silence fell upon the 3 that were awake soon after. And Toya finally decided to sit back down in his seat.

"Good bread." Mafuyu commented.

"Thank you, I've been trying new recipes. Would you like to try it with some toppings?"

"Which kind do you carry Kohane?" Toya asked from inside the carriage, already half finished with the bread he held. And soon after he asked he ate it all.

"Well, I made some new butter. And some jam just before we left the castle."

"I'll take some jam." Toya said, pointing at Kohane bag. Silently asking for more bread.

"Butter for me, would you mind spreading it for me?" Mafuyu still held the reins to the horse. So she couldn't exactly let go.

"Sure, I'll spread it for both of you guys."

"Thank you, Kohane."

"Thank you, but can you make it a peanut butter and jelly sandwich if you have peanut butter?"

"Don't worry, I already know how you like it Toya. I brought A can of peanut butter."

"Okay, but not too much-"

"Same spreading of jam and peanut butter, but the peanuts can't have the small nuts in it. I'll pick it out for you with gloves."

"Thank you..."

"Wow, we really have gotten close over the years haven't we?" Mafuyu hummed, eating her own bread with one hand while the other held the reins.

"Yes, I'll have to agree. I didn't expect to be making sandwiches on a carriage ride." Kohane said, spreading jam on a piece of bread while Toya stared intently.

"Its still a nice moment to savor."

"Yes, that's definitely one way to take it."

It was silent for the rest, with Toya watching Kohane spread the rest then handing it to him. Then Toya sat back down and ate in peaceful silence. His father having woken up and asked for some bread as well. 

After eating Toya could feel himself grow tired after eating quite the amount of bread he had eaten. He slowly closed his eyes.

Leaning against the carriage wall, but then there was a bump. And his head fell to the other side. Landing on a shoulder.

But he wasn't pushed away, in fact he was pat on the head and then he felt a head lay on top of his.

Chapter Text

Toya awoke to the carriage stopping at random, almost flying out of his seat if it wasn't for his father who grabbed his arm and tugged him back into said seat.

The carriage was still for A moment, only for A moment. Before it was tilted to the side and it fell over. Toya had a soft landing as his father held him tightly acting as a cushion as they landed on the now flipped carriages side.

"What happened?-" Toya asked, forced awake as he rubbed his eyes and looked around.

His father didn't answer, and only put a finger to his mouth.

Toya immediately fell silent.

The two listened for A while, they could hear swords clashing against each other outside of the carriage.

Toyas father took A peek out of the carriages door that was above them now.

"Bandits." His father said, simply closing the door again. Not bothering to step out to help.

"Ah, that's not what I was hoping we'd run into." Toya sighed, a bit annoyed they were already being delayed in arriving to the light kingdom.

"It can't be helped, they must've been camping the borders."

"What a stupid mistake."

"Mafuyu and Kohane will take care of them, in the meantime it's best if you made sure that your presents aren't harmed." Harumichi pointed to the gifts that were carefully boxed. Now a bit messed up since they were flown about when the carriage tipped over.

"No, nonono, these were picked for Akito!" Toya rushed over to the gifts. Immediately opening them to at least check the valuables inside.

"Are they alright Toya?"

"They're fine..."

"Thats good then. Lets check if the two are done already."

"It'd be best if they were. Otherwise we'd waste more time then wanted."

Toya peeked out this time. Opening the door, seeing 3 dead bodies while Mafuyu dragged the last one onto the other two.

Toya was about to open the door further. But he felt a chill run down his spine and ducked, trying to close the door again. A man grabbed the handle and opened the carriage for him by force.

But he wasn't holding it open to help him out at all, the man held a knife pointing it directly at Toyas eye.

Toya blinked for A second in shock that Mafuyu had missed someone at all and somehow this man managed to not be harmed.

But before the knife reached Toyas eye the man was grabbed and died on the spot. Freezing up before blood spilled from his mouth.

Stabbed in the stomach he tried to at least finish Toya off and stab his neck instead. But Kohanes free hand took the jab instead.

Toya fell back onto his butt. His father tugged him back quickly and shut the door immediately, leaving Kohane to deal with the scene.

"Toya... Are you alright?-" Toyas father had worry written all over his face. The man cupped his son's face and checked him over. Seeing the prince had no injuries and didn't have a single scrape he sat the teenager down and opened the door.

Kohane held the dead body and was tugging it towards the pile of 3. Mafuyu rushed over to Harumichi.

"Your highness! Please, forgive our mistake! It was a grave and stupid overlook on our behalf. Are any of you hurt?" Mafuyu was bloody herself. But she worried only for the king and prince, it was obvious the blood spilled wasn't any of her own. 

Seeing that Kohane and Mafuyu didn't seem to get harmed enough to worry about getting a doctor Harumichi calmed down.

"We're alright, the only problem would be the fact that our lover boy would be held back from arriving to the light kingdom at the moment." Harumichi said, holding out a handkerchief to Mafuyu.

"You got a little something right on your face." He said with a straight face.

"Thank you, your highness is much too kind to me."

Mafuyu wiped her face clean, all while Kohane hummed in the background.

"Cleaning up the body, I hope nobody finds me... the blood flows fluidly through- the broom~ Nobody will find you- its not like they will try to! Gone by may, so goodbye- I'll say."

Kohane hummed happily, Harumichi didn't bat an eye at her singing. Mafuyu didn't flinch. And Toya simply got out of the carriage like all was normal. Because it was,

Yes, Kohane wasn't exactly a normal maid. She was genuinely a knight hidden behind the title of a maid. So she doubled as one at the same time.

"Kohane, if your injured you should ten to your wound."

"Your highness its alright. I've already casted a healing spell Rui had shown me. But if your much more worried, I'll take a potion from Mafuyu's bag."

"Best to take a potion. We wouldn't want you sick on our journey."

"Of course your highness."

Harumichi looked at the carriage, seeing the horses being alright he counted the 3 and decided they should ride on the horses for the rest of their way.

"We'll leave once everything is back in order. Does that satisfy you Mr. Loverboy?" Harumichi was attempting a tease, a silly act since the mans face was always so straight, but it was obvious he wanted to attempt to get along with the younger prince and knights.

But Toya nodded, immediately giving a thumbs up. Mafuyu gave a smile, and Kohane hummed happily.

"Then we'll be off soon."

Chapter Text

Am ngl I actually have like  a WHOLE government writing assignment to do. Am very busy since I flunked a test and now have to do like multiple webquests to make it up. So I can't upload</3

I can't wait for summer break. Then I can go back to uploading 2-4 chapters a day.

(Truth be told I've been busy doing things so that's why chapters changed from multiple a day to on every week or 2.)

I have 6 days left. Please wait for me</3

Chapter Text

Akito sighed as he woke up, looking around his room. He yawned rolling around in bed. Wanting to close the curtains to keep anymore light from attacking his eyes.

Ena walked in, holding a broom as she leaned against Akito's open door knocking softly.

"Akito, get your lazy ass up. Mom needs you to help her make breakfast."

Akito groaned, covering his head with his pillow.

"Give me another hour..." 

"No way!- you've been getting special treatment since you've returned! Its about time your put to do chores again!"

Ena threw one of Akito's shoes on the floor at him. Akito sat up annoyed as he climbed out of bed.

"Your so fucking annoying!"

He groaned, flicking Ena off as she make a small spell and sent a splash of light into Akito's dark room. Making the ginger fall back throwing pillows aimlessly.

"Okay! Okay! Am up! Get out your such a bitch!" 

"Shut up piss strand. And hurry up, am hungry."

Akito forced himself up, feeling hot he took off his shirt and changed it for a thinner one. Leaving on his long shorts he changed into the night before. 

He left his room walking down the hallway stretching. Entering the kitchen, his dad was just retreating back into his little art room after grabbing a banana. But Akito's mom had caught her husband when she peeked out of the kitchen looking for if Akito was coming to help. And grabbed her husbands arm.

"¿Adónde vas!? ¿Desayunaste? ¿Limpiaste tu sala de arte?"

(Translation: "Where are you going!? Did you eat breakfast? Did you clean up your art room?")

Akito watched as his dad was forced to sit down and wait for breakfast. Akito entered the kitchen, seeing his mom he stood next to her peeking over her shoulder. Clearing his throat preparing his Spanish since he hadn't used it in quite the amount of months.

"Mami, ¿qué hay para desayunar?"

(Translation: "Mami, what's for breakfast?")

His mom looked over at him, sliding over a bowl of pancake mix. Looking as though she was happy to see her son come over to help her.

"Estoy haciendo algo de comer para tu abuela ya que la voy a visitar hoy. Empieza a cocinar los panqueques y no le des el más pequeño a tu hermana."

(Translation: "Am making your grandma something to eat since am going to visit her today. Start cooking the pancakes. and don't give your sister the smallest one.")

Akito nodded, heading to the stove as he started it up. Akito waited for the pan to heat up and mixed the pancake mix a little bit more. Wanting the pancakes to fluff up a bit more.

Akito and his mom cooked silently near each other, preparing different meals as Akito slid the last pancake onto the plate. and his mom put the tacos she made into a Tupperware.

The ginger walked out of the kitchen with some pancakes, setting it down on the table with a small sigh.

His dad immediately grabbed a plate for himself. Akito left the dining room looking for his older sister who was no doubt in her room.

Akito forced Ena out to eat, when they arrived at the table their mom was holding 2 other plates. Hash browns and eggs.

As well as already setting down glasses of milk.

"Apúrate a comer antes de que la comida se enfríe."

(Translate: Hurry up and eat before the food gets cold)

Their mom sat down next to their father. Leaving the two teenagers to sit across. It was silent while the family ate, other than Ena and Akito fighting for the fattest pancake.

"You already ate so many of the eggs!- give me it!"

"No way piss strand!"

The two poked the others fork out of the way. Too busy to notice their dad reaching and stealing the fat juicy pancake.

"Seriously!?"

Akito and Ena yelled at the same time. But they shut up realizing that their father was already being stared at by their mother who was reaching for the same pancake.

"Nevermind..."

"I just remembered I shouldn't steal others pancakes..."

Akito ate the hash browns on his plate, munching away happily before hearing Ena speak.

"Akito, where did you go? Why didn't you come home quickly?"

Akito swallowed and took A long sip of his milk. Thinking about Toya he blushed a little. But he shook his head.

"Just couldn't find my way back, trust me it's a maze to find the light kingdom when your so far away."

"Huh, good thing am not gonna try to become a knight."

"You can't even handle the summer heat. The hell you mean not gonna try?-"

"Fuck you."

"Fuck you more."

"Si ustedes dos siguen maldiciendo, los pondré a limpiar los platos después de Acción de Gracias y a abrazarse después."

(Translate: if you two keep cursing I'll put you both to clean the dishes after thanksgiving and hug each other after.)

"Sí, mami..."

Akito and Ena stopped throwing curses at the table instead finishing their food in silence.

Chapter Text

An awoke in her large princess worthy bed, yawning as she fell back. A maid entered, pink hair cut into a short, messy bob. Bubbly and jumping as she entered.

"Good morning your highness! Let's hurry so you can meet with the prince arriving today!" She hummed, tugging An up. Who fell back quickly, but the maid wasn't exactly one to give up so quickly. She simply picked the princess up over her shoulder like a potato sack.

"Emu... Can you have Nene prepare my red dress for me...?"

"Of course your highness! We'll get you sparkly and Wonderhoy!☆ in no time!~"

Another maid entered silently long grayish-green hair, with the front strands tied at the ends. Simply entering the large lavish closet searching for A dress for the princess to wear.

"Nene-chan!~ The princess wants her big sparkly red flower dress!"

"I'm on it Emu..."

An sat at the edge of the tub. Undressing herself as she put on a towel hung nearby.

"Who's arriving today Emu?"

"The big dark kingdoms king and prince!" Emu hummed, raising her hands as if she was telling a small horror story, before finishing on setting the bath and helping An brush her waist-length black hair with blue tips.

"But don't worry, Ichika-kun will be right with you when he arrives! She's practicing how to drink tea again!"

"Akito isn't my knight today...? I thought he was back on duty..." An sighed, disappointed her best friend was basically still gone on his break.

"Don't worry my princess, he's back today. He's just expected to arrive much later than usual. Its gonna be A happy happy, Kiri, bright and sunny day today! Let's make today exciting just like everyday!" Emu beamed with positivity, helping An take off her nightgown and go into the tub. Preparing to wash her hair.

"Right- let's make today another good day." An shook herself awake splashing herself with water as Emu smiled. 

"Hehe!★~ princess you don't need to worry! You'll brighten up anyone's day with your smile!~"

An nodded, determined to make friends with the dark kingdoms prince in her mind she could make friends with most of anyone. This shouldn't be different! And if she made friends with the prince- maybe she could score a happy treaty.

An had her fist pumped up her eyes full of determination, with Emu happily clapping her hands and starting to clean the others hair.

Nene walked in silently, clearing her throat.

"Your highness- I was thinking- If maybe..." Nene got a bit quiet at the end, thinking she was overstepping with adding her own opinion. She wasn't as bubbly as Emu, she was so much more quiet and second guessed herself.

Scared of offending a higher up, since her sharp tongue got her in trouble she didn't need at times. And only got out of it thanks to having the princess soothe things over for her.

"You don't need to worry, what was it you wanted to ask?" An looked over her shoulder, the quiet maid blushed a bit suddenly more nervous than before.

"Maybe today... We can add some flowers and things to your hair- If that's alright with you?"

Emu immediately pumped her fists up happily.

"Oh- oh! Lets add pretty red roses to her hair so that the roses match her red dress!"

"Thats what I was thinking... Since we have new guests-"

"That sounds good. Lets try it!" An gave Nene a thumbs up. The maid smiled, having had her hands behind her back the entire conversation.

"I have these flowers I picked..." Nene entered the bathroom, coming closer to the tub so the bathing princess could see the flowers selected.

"OooO~ Nene-Chan! Lets do these ones!"

"It's what the princess wants...-"

"You guys can do whatever- as long as you guys like it I think it'll look okay!"

"The princess agreed! Let's make her sparkle and shine today!"

"Alright... If you say so your highness..."

An watched as Nene left, heading to start preparing the vanity for when An finished bathing.

Emu helped An step out and covered her with a bigger towel. Grabbing another towel for An's hair. When An was finished she stepped out. Nene immediately began helping her put on her famous red dress. 

Emu helped can fix the back of the dress, before An went to sit down at the vanity. Grinning at Nene who looked a bit nervous at first. But when she got to work Emu busier herself with fixing An's bed nearby.

When Nene finished An gasped in awe. But Nene immediately grew shocked.

"Is it too tight?- should I set your hair into a full down one instead?-"

"Nono!- its beautiful!-" An held her own face in the mirror, looking at both sides. Emu turned around and hugged Nene who almost had her soul leave her body when An gasped.

"Nene-Chan! Its so pretty! Princess looks so sparkly just like we said she would!"

"Aw! You guys are so sweet! I feel even prettier than usual!~" An gushed, happily standing up and twirling in the mirror.

"You credit me too much your highness... Thank you for sitting so patiently..."

"No way! I don't think I credit you guys enough!"

"Hehe!♪ Nene-Chan is the best of the best!"

"Well... Emu did most of the work... I only pulled out your dress and did your hair..."

"Nonsense, you both played a part."

"Of course your highness! Anything you say!~"

"Thank you..." 

The trio highs fived each other happily. Then set off when Ichika knocked on the door to pick An up.

An looked over at her two maids one last time, Emu gave her thumbs up. While Nene gave a deep bow. Ichika smiled offering a compliment seeing An look so bright.

Chapter Text

Toya felt nervous, clutching his stomach as he rode his own horse. Kohane watched with a sharp eye, suddenly making Mafuyu make their horse ride slower to ride next to Toya.

"Are you hungry? Do you need water? Do you want to stop for rest? Do you need-"

"No... Am- actually feeling nervous..."

Kohane grew silent, as usual Toya was nervous meeting new people. But this time he couldn't hide it behind a mask. Probably because of the fact they were entering Akito's home kingdom.

"Well, just take some deep breathes okay? Am sure the princess will be welcoming. I've heard she's very kind and easy to get along with."

"I hope so..."

Kohane had Toya do some deep breathes with her. She wanted to make sure Toya wasn't hiding anything else he was feeling.

Toya felt as though a sword had stabbed him, taking deep breathes did help him quite a bit though. Looking around seeing animals scatter and listening to the nature all around he took one last breath and let out a shaky sigh. 

"Thank you Kohane, I feel much better now..."

"Of course my prince. If anything bothers you please don't hesitate to speak."

"I understand."

Toya watched as Kohane finally allowed Mafuyu to ride more ahead now, passing around the last of her bread with jam. Toya wanted to ask for another piece. But seeing his father take the last one he didn't want his dad to give up his own piece for him.

So Toya stayed quiet listening to the wind and watching as the light kingdoms borders were in view now. 

Mafuyu rode ahead as Kohane set aside her bag, obviously to announce the dark king and prince's arrival. Kohane smiled simply leading the way. Toyas father rode in front of his son. Silent, then looking over his shoulder.

"We're almost there. Don't forget to make a new friend of the princess."

"Yes father. I'll do my best."

"I know you will, I expect nothing more than the best from you."

Although the words sounded cold, Toya felt proud knowing his father thought so high of him. He nodded, feeling determined to repay his father for letting him visit Akito, Toya looked down at his bag that held his gifts for A certain ginger.

Remembering Akito's smiling face he could only hope the ginger smiled that brightly seeing his gifts for him... And hopefully even more at seeing Toya.

Chapter Text

An waited happily, practicing her bows and greeting with Ichika. Who looked just as nervous if it weren't for the fact that she was trying to be the most composed out of the two. By now it was the middle of the day.

"What if he's too cold and I can't even bring out conversation out of him!?"

"Maybe he's actually really nice-"

"What if I offend him and he stares me down!?"

"I- now am worrying!"

"Exactly-" 

An paced around her favorite tea spot overlooking the garden. Ichika was setting down cookies that weren't too sweet and some tea and black coffee.

Emu hopped over, setting down new flowers happily as An and Ichika freaked out.

"Em- Emu!- could you maybe tell us a bit more about the dark prince?-" Ichika called out to Emu.

"Oh? Hehe! Sure!" Emu turned around and sat on one of the seats. Taking a cookie for herself.

"He's suppose to be silent, and very composed... From what I heard he looks like he walked out of a portrait!"

An sighed, thinking that if the prince was A very composed man. Then he wouldn't be easy to offend or make angry.

Ichika watched as An thought, patting her on the back.

"And he owns a huge dragon! The size of a building!"

"HE OWNS A WHAT!?" An almost fainted on the spot- who the hell owns a fucking dragon!? Did they really exist!?

"Oh goodness..." Ichika quickly moved to offer a hand to An. Who accepted with another sigh.

"Alright... He must be very easy to talk to about the weather..."

"It's best if you don't let the topic enter one of swords..." Ichika offered, watching as the princess nodded and stood up straight.

"Right, usually Akito is the one doing the sword talk for me..."

"Sorry, I don't really know much about swords other than my own..."

"Its fine- I'm sure I can keep the topic light and easy by myself anyway..."

Standing up Emu waved at the princess and knight, calling out to them.

"Oh and the dark king and prince are already here at the borders! So get ready!"

An sat down, her head hitting the small tea table with a small thud. Ichika waved Emu off with a smile anyway.

"We got this, Akito's coming back in another hour today. More of a relief for me since I'll definitely switch out with him."

"It's fine... Anything is better than nothing..."

"I understand... Am sorry I really wish I was as social as Akito..."

"No its fine- I don't need another Akito running around. That's the last thing I want. Besides, your just as nice to have around."

"Thank you your highness... You flatter me very much."

"Alright, lets finish rehearsing one more time!"

"R-right!"

Chapter Text

An nervously ran through the halls after finishing rehearsal with Ichika. Peeking out from behind a nearby wall, her father waved at her to come stand with him.

"Come An, our guests have officially arrived." Ken smiled, wanting his loveable daughter next to him as their guests entered.

"Right- I'm coming dad!" An held up her dress scurrying over as Ichika tried helping her.

"You look nervous An."

"I've never met this prince before..."

"Don't worry, no one can resist smiling after seeing my little princess."

"Dad! Am not 10 anymore!- where's mom?"

"She's still getting dressed, you two love to worry about the perfect dress."

An nodded, fixing her smile as she waited. Making sure her dress was alright she did a small turn to have her father check.

Then the doors opened, An gave a mannered smile as usual. Her father starting up the conversation with a small bow and hello himself.

"Your Royal highness, Aoyagi." Ken bowed, smiling as he offered A handshake.

"Hello, Your Royal Highness Shiraishi."The man looked much more strict then An's own dad. She felt as though her dad this man were basically polar opposites... What would they even be able to talk about!? Because it would definitely wouldn't be the weather!

An watched with great nervousness, And froze on the spot. Walking over quickly.. her heels clicking realizing she probably looked stupid.

"And this is my daughter," Ken smiled greatly, happy to introduce his little girl to basically anyone.

"Hello your highness, am Shiraishi An." An bowed, standing up straight when the man was silent for A bit then he spoke.

"This is my son." He stepped aside, revealing a towering prince who looked ever so deadpan as his father. If not his expression was equivalent to his fathers.

"Aoyagi Toya." 

An didn't know what to say- this prince didn't even say a full sentence- no matter. She could definitely handle this.

An watched as her father turned around and led the four of them up the steps. But An nudged the prince and smiled.

"Lets go for A walk." She hummed, wanting to leave the adults alone. She didn't want to be the only girl hanging around and listening to some political kingdom stuff. She already had to learn about enough of that anyway!

"..." 

"Uhm... If you don't mind...?" The prince wouldn't even answer her! What the hell!? She felt so embarrassed, did she smile too much!? Did he think she was trying to pull him aside to ask him out!?

An knew this prince was definitely gushed over by other princesses- but she didn't want him to think she was trying to ask him out either!

"Alright." But then he agreed... An had to hold back an obvious sigh of relief.

"Ah- this way please your highness-"

"... Alright."

An could see him looking around for something, but she acted like she saw nothing. Simply leading him towards the gardens view.

It was silent- to silent... An had already tried making different conversations. But this guy was so damn dry! An wanted to kick herself in the back of the knee. Gosh! How the hell was she suppose to befriend such a dry ass prince anyway all he did was fucking hum!

She didn't want to disappoint her dad. But she couldn't even get 3 words out of this man! What the actual fuck!?

"Do you like cookies?" An grew desperate for conversation, switching over to snacks.

The prince finally looked over!  "Heh... I got you now!" 

"We had some not so sweet cookies made, if you want we could definitely have a small tea party!"

"... That'd be nice."

An immediately felt a weigh lift off her shoulder, She got three words! Take that universe! she stopped walking so fast and began walking next to the prince. Keeping small talk trying to keep some conversation at least. 

Seeing Ichika come into view pouring some tea An led the way.

"This is my knight. If you need anything she can get you it!"

"Hello- your highness,"

"... Mh."

"Ehm- if you don't mind me asking. Do you not have a knight or maid with you?"

"... Horses."

"Uh... They're putting the horses away...?"

"Mhm."

"Great! Uh... So how's your kingdom like?"

Chapter Text

Toya was tweaking inside. Watching the princess slow down and walk next to him- he tried to make himself sound interested. He really was! But he couldn't bring himself to say anything So he just.. hummed.

Normally Mafuyu or Kohane would help him out here-  but they were busy with the horses and helping knights find their carriage they had to abandon since it got tipped over.

"Are my hums too short? Maybe I should make them longer to make it sound like am listening..."

"Mhmmm."

The princess gave an awkward chuckle. And Toya was struck in the stomach. 

"In all of my days of living, I've never been more ashamed of myself. A hum that long? What am I? Azov snoring?

Toya had to keep personally keep himself from excusing himself and smashing his head against a wall. The princess was nice, super talkative and very sweet and had an absolute halo around her. Toya felt absolutely awful for making the princess look so awkward.

It was so obvious she was treading on glass without heels around him. She even made her laughs from before so much more silent- was he really that terrifying!?

Truth be told, Toya was actually terrified of the princess before him. He had to practice deep breathing with Kohane and even his father be fore they entered. 

Toya didn't know when it was okay to smile at her jokes, he also didn't know when it was even okay to add something either. So he just stayed silent drinking his coffee...

Toya wished he had just walked with his father instead, he wanted to comment on how pretty the princesses hair looked. But when he was about to speak he just pointed at his own head stupidly, making the princess freeze and try to explain her own hairstyle.

"Oh- my maid just wanted to try adding flowers. Its actually really nice-...."

Toyas hand fell down then he finally couldn't hold back and his head fell onto the table. Making the princess jump and gasp.

Toya could feel the tips of his ears going red. He wanted to fall to the floor and just fall into a hole. He probably looked like he didn't even want to try and speak to the princess before him.

He probably looked like he was criticizing her for her hair style. Which was NOT true at all- he remembered that his mother had worn something close to it... 

It'd be amazing if someone could pop up and help him get out of this mess... But Kohane was with Mafuyu, and his father was taking to his highness Shiraishi...

The princess began shaking Toya desperately. Reminding Toya that he was still in the middle of having some coffee with her and not alone in his room at his desk.

The knight Ichika ran up worried, waving her hands around scared if she touched the prince that it would make matters worse.

"Should I call a doctor!?- maybe he's tired!-"

"Am fine..." Toya mumbled, sitting up straight again like nothing was wrong.

"If you don't mind... But where's knight Shino-" Toya began his sentence. Before feeling someone's breathe right next to his ear. He froze up already about to cast an explosion.

"Long time no see."

 Toya froze hearing the mans voice. Turning over seeing Akito leaning over his shoulder his hand flew to his heart. Eyes siding before they softened.

"Akito..."

"Your royal highness Aoyagi." Akito took a step back, bowing but Toya couldn't help a small frown hearing his last name from Akito's mouth.

"You never called me that before..."

"Well- it's weird to just call you by your real name-"

"Why? It wasn't weird when you were in my castle, eating my chocolates, walking in the gardens with me. Meeting my family- My father even..."

"okay, I get your point. I won't call you Aoyagi again."

Toya gave a small smile immediately, happy to know Akito was going to call him by his first name again he turned back around to continue drinking his coffee having forgotten everyone around them when he looked into Akito's eyes.

"Aki! You know the dark kingdoms prince!- personally!?"

"... Maybe."

"Okay now you HAVE to tell me where you were when you were gone!"

"I said its a long story..."

Chapter Text

Akito had down at the table with An and Toya, happily eating the cookies at first. But when he was halfway through and he found absolutely no sweet cookies- suddenly he lost his appetite... 

"What happened to all the sweet cookies?-" Akito mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck with his hand.

"Listen fatass, I didn't have any baked since rumor had it that his highness Toya didn't like sweets." An huffed, crossing her arms. When Akito had popped up and sat down conversation was much easier. And Toya actually was talking more then few words.

An had already began getting much closer with Toya making funny jokes and talking about small things they enjoyed.

"Very true. Am surprised the rumors were accurate." Toya hummed, knowing he couldn't handle much sweetness as the other two before him.

Akito sighed with disappointment, An gave a small huff crossing her arms. But she still didn't want to get her knight sweets yet since he hadn't told his story yet.

Toya looked into the garden, before hearing footsteps approaching. He peeked over his shoulder seeing Kohane he cleared his throat.

"This is my maid, Azusawa Kohane." Toya introduced Kohane happily, the maid bowing as she held a small box.

"This is for you Akito, please take this gift. Toya had personally pack-"

"Ehm- Why don't you open it instead-" Toya had to cut Kohane off. Not wanting to let Akito know that small detail since the packaging was A bit funky.

Kohane giggled and shut up, Toya looked a bit guilty having cut her off from speaking but she reassured him by serving him some more coffee.

"This is chocolate?" Akito asked, confused at first before taking a small nibble. The sweet flavor exploded on his tongue. Making him hum with delight.

"Chocolate from the shop we never got to visit."

"It tastes so good!- such a pity we really didn't get to go in person..."

"No worries, I doubt I'd order anything."

"Well... That's probably true..."

An watched the prince and knight converse, sensing a bond that spoke more than casual meeting. And seeing Akito wasn't putting on his goody two face, she stood and walked towards Toyas maid and grabbed her hand.

"Would you like to take a walk in the gardens with me?" An looked over at the two men. Hinting she wanted to leave them alone.

The maid nodded, excusing herself from her prince and the knight eagerly.

Chapter Text

An wanted to pull Akito aside and question him, but seeing her knight look so at ease and unguarded she thought she could do Akito a small favor. Just this once, at least since he's saved her from bullshit every time.

An hadn't realized she was still holding the maids hand, until the maid herself cleared her throat.

"Your highness, you've passed the gardens. And your still holding my hand."

An turned, she hadn't gotten a close look at the maid before her at all. Only just now getting a good stare.

She's- actually really... Really, cute...

An stared at the girl, suddenly her hand laced with the sandy blondes fingers instead of letting go.

"The gardens are a maze- its best if we hold hands so we don't loose each other."

An lied, feeling her cheeks heat up but she wasn't ready to let go yet. She made her way towards the garden they had passed and stepped inside.

Trying to make it look like she wasn't suddenly nervous. The maid nodded, her cheeks growing red as well, acting like nothing was wrong An took that as a sign that she was okay with holding hands.

An led her further into the lavish gardens, finding a small bench facing a glowing pond surrounded by flowers of different kinds.

Clearing her throat An spoke as she motioned for the maid to sit down.

"So, how did Akito and Toya meet?..."

"Akito didn't tell you yet?"

"Nope. He's just been brushing it off..."

"Well, first his highness had found a ginger cat..."

"Am guessing this cat was Akito?"

"Your correct, but we didn't know it was knight Shinonome until a while later. And when his highness found out... He only grew more attached at the hip with the ginger..."

"Seriously?- didn't he even question or send him to be questioned?"

"I thought so at first as well... But him and Akito's cat form had been very close. And so after Toya found Akito during a ball on his birthday and they clicked together so nicely... Toya grew attached quicker than he himself wanted, so they kept talking during the ball. But then he found out Akito was A knight from the light kingdom but also secretly his pet cat as well. So the next time he saw Akito... He tried to keep the man as a guest instead of a pet cat."

"He just accepted it!?"

"I was shocked as well!- but it made more sense when he told me why... Akito as a cat, had helped him grow used to talking again and hanging around someone and helped him understand that he was shutting himself away from the rest of us. And human Akito helped him feel calm and even want to try and get back out into the world to attempt to rejoin the world and converse again."

"Huh..."

"But, now... He just wants to keep Akito by his side for as long as possible... So I'll be honest with you your highness. That's why my king and prince have come to visit."

"Well now am not surprised, it's obvious Toya was looking for someone at the beginning..."

"Am sorry, was it that obvious?... But I don't want you to think that he only cares for his own wants... He really did want to be friends with you. During the whole ride here he was taking deep breathes and thinking on how to make friends with you."

"Aww~ he's just a big softie hidden behind a scary face!" An laughed, feeling more relieved. Recalling how Toya struggled to make conversation and how his responses were A bit robotic. She began to guess that he was just nervous.

"Mhm, his highness has always been shy. But since he's always so deadpan no one seems to think his silence is simply from nervousness..."

"You sure do love your prince."

"He's my best friend... My father used to be the chief chef and he brought me to work with him a lot... So I met Toya when I was simply young. We've grown close and I wanted to help him so I become a maid and worked hard to earn the spot of his maid."

"... How sweet of you..."

"Am sorry- I've barely allowed you to talk your highness..."

"No- its okay. I think its cute how happy you are to serve Toya."

An smiled, tilting her head her hair falling around. The maid looked away immediately though. Suddenly nervous she grew red.

"Haha! Your just as nervous as your prince!" An laughed softly, tucking the maids loose strand of hair behind her ear.

"S-Should we head back?-"

"No, I want to get to know you better. Lets stay here for A little longer... If you want Kohane."

"... We can!- I don't mind-" 

"Then it's settled! Let's stay here and talk more!"

"R-right!"

Chapter Text

Toya motioned for Akito to take An's seat. Akito who was watching his princess walk off with Kohane was a bit surprised they left so quickly.

But he also didn't question it, An was one to cling to girls most often. So he just sat down and grabbed a cookie.

"So, how's everything been Toya?"

"Just about fine... Nothings changed."

Akito held his breath, his knee shaking up and down under the table. Nervously speaking up and staring at Toya with a worried face.

"...Is- the reason your here because of Rosa-"

"No, unless you did stab her?"

"No!- I didn't-"

"Then we don't need to talk about her anymore." Toya said, taking another sip from his coffee then setting it back down on the table.

"Your just gonna believe me? Just like that...?"

"Well, yes."

"... Seriously?"

"Why are you so surprised?"

"I just- I didn't think-"

"You didn't think I'd have any faith in you?"

"Well- she's an ally and am a knight from the opposing kingdom..."

"And she's also built a habit of lying to get her way."

Akito stared at Toya, feeling like there really was nothing more to say he felt much more calmer. At first he really was nervous, even if it didn't show from when Akito had said hello, but by now that Toya had confirmed he wasn't here to get any revenge or something for Rosalind he calmed down.

Akito slowly began finishing the box of chocolates Toya had brought for him. Happily swallowing them down one by one.

Toya smiled, looking ever so pleased to see Akito eat the gift so happily. His arm on the table holding up his head.

They were stuck in comfortable silence, with Toya drinking his coffee and watching Akito eat his chocolate. And Akito who hadn't noticed Toyas gaze on him yet, just gobbling away at the sweets.

It was nice, for the both of them. Just enjoying the other simply being there and not needing to exchange any fake pleasant words. 

Just sitting and drinking coffee and eating chocolate.

And ignoring the fact that they both have grown too attached to simply call their relationship 'friendship'.

Chapter Text

An held Kohanes hand happily, already attached at the hip with the maid who seemed to trail after the princess feeling a bit out of place.

"And over here!- oh look Akito and Toya are still here!" An smiled, walking up to the table watching Akito eat his chocolate.

"Where the hell would we go?" Akito hissed, suddenly having lost his smile from before when he was talking to Toya.

"Don't be greedy!- share some." An grinned, eager to piss the ginger off. Snatching a chocolate and turning to Kohane.

"Say ah~"

"Your highness!- is this appropriate!?-" Kohane blushed immediately, looking to Toya not wanting to eat the chocolate ment for Akito without permission. Akito jumped up from his seat immediately ready to snatch it back from An.

Toya didn't move, simply tilting his head and raising his brows teasingly to Kohane. Akito had caught on not to long after, sitting back down and continuing to eat his own chocolate. Turning a fake blind eye.

"Whatever. I didn't like that flavor anyway..."

Toya immediately looked at Akito, thinking Akito didn't like one of the chocolates he had picked out for him he looked like a sad wet dog having stared at Akito sadly his coffee set down.

"Did you really?-"

Akito looked at him laughing as he covered his mouth. Waving his free hand around.

"Toya!- I was kidding-"

Toya cleared his throat, a bit embarrassed he was so oblivious to such an obvious fake statement.

"Right... Of course you were..."

An rolled her eyes, turning back to Kohane.

"Open wide Kohane!~"

Kohane gulped down the lump in her throat, opening her mouth and shutting her eyes closed as An fed her the chocolate. Tasting it melt it her mouth she opened her eyes wide.

"That's!- delicious!" Kohane hummed, her hands flying up to her cheeks and smiling widely.

An stared at her for a good while, suddenly her hand flew to her heart. Watching Kohane cute reaction she blushed and immediately reached for another chocolate.

"Eat another!-"

"Alright!"

"Wait!- thats MY chocolate!-" Akito cried, Toya let a light chuckle escape at Akito's words. Making the ginger look over and chuckle as well.

Nene watched from afar, having been passing with Ichika who looked confused at the display.

"Is- is this normal...?" Nene mumbled to the knight next to her.

"I- have no idea..." Ichika whispered back.

Emu happily ran between them, seeing the two royals and the ginger knight and wasn't blonde hair maid up ahead she was about to wave and call out to them.

But Nene covered her mouth and whispered in her ear.

"Emu... I've had enough social interaction for today..."

"Hehe!~★ am sorry Nene-chan!~"

Nene smiled, and tugged Emu towards another hall. Leaving Ichika alone. Who just sighed and continued walking alone, into a different hall. Before spotting Shiho, who was walking with Honami who was feeding her a piece of apple pie.

Ichika turned away immediately, realizing she was completely alone.

"Gosh am lonely..."  She sighed, Walking into yet another lonely hall so she didn't disturb Shiho and Honami's alone time.

She walked for A while, just alone and walking around the castle. Spotting Tsukasa happily talking near a window, holding expensive drinks and holding it out to a blond girl with lighter pink tips at her ends of her hair.

"What a beautiful noble lady..."  Ichika thought, moving away immediately to not disturb Tsukasa and the girl.

Saki smiled at her brother who raised a glass of fruit juice. Nothing too strong so her stomach wouldn't be upset just in case.

Accidentally looking past to catch a glimpse of the knight with short dark blue hair. Strong yet silent. But beautiful.

"Big brother- who's that?"

"Oh?- Ichika! Come lets all have a seat together!" Tsukasa immediately noticed his loveable younger sisters interest in his comrade.

Happily arranging for Saki's happiness to be fullfilled.

Chapter Text

Kohane paced the halls nervously, Toya and her were suppose to meet Akito and An in the horse stalls soon to go for A ride all together. But Toyas father had called him aside.

"For what!?- are we in trouble!?-"  Kohane nervously leaned against the thick door, her ear against the wood as she tried to listen. But could only hear mumbles, she only felt more nervous when she heard them shuffle around.

She leaned away, nibbling on her nails before two maids passed by, immediately she jumped and waved.

"He-hello!-"

"Hi..."

"Hellooo!~★"

Kohane shifted A bit. Not sure what else to say. Before the long grayish-green hair haired maid spoke up.

"Are- you alright...?"

Kohane stared at her, nodding as she forced herself to let out a chuckle.

"Of course- yeah-"

"Mmm... We- well... Me and Emu made some new snacks- if you wanted to try one...?"

"They're called wonder-hoy cookies!~★ they'll brighten your day!" The pink haired bob grinned. Shoving a piece of soft bread inside Kohanes hands.

"Try it!~"

"Ah- thank you... Emu and...?"

"Nene... My names Nene."

"Thank you, it looks wonderful..."

Kohane took A small bite, feeling the flavor explode on her tongue she hummed from delight. Suddenly feeling much better than before she gave a light smile.

"Wow- it really does help!" Kohanes eyes widened, taking another nibble. This time tasting the jam inside.

"See Nene-chan?~ I said they'll work!"

"Let's go hand out some more..."

"Hehe!~ See you later!" Emu waved, already running off with her tray.

"Uh- right! See you at the ball in two months..." Nene gave a small bow, and scurried after Emu. Trying to catch up.

Kohane gave a bow in return, without thinking she nodded and answered.

"See you there!-"

Kohane called after the two maids, sighing as she continued to eat. Deciding to cut off a piece for Toya to try- 

Before realizing what the maids said.

Ball!? What ball!?

"W-wait!" Kohane turned to try and get the maids attention, but she only saw the long grey-greenish hair disappear down the corner.

Realizing she couldn't really find them since she didn't know the palace right she froze. Silent as she processed what she heard.

"A ball...? When was this!?"

Kohanes mind immediately went to planning, worried Toya would be too overwhelmed if he wasn't told before hand. 

She should prepare a tailor!-

Oh but she would also have to make sure Mafuyu in informed. Oh and this time she should probably tell Rui, otherwise he'd trap himself in his experiments yet again- oh but she couldn't forget that.-

"Kohane-" A voice whispered, gently laying a gloved hand on her shoulder and squeezing it.

Kohane turned around, seeing Toyas eye brows scrunch she realized she must've looked crazy and have been whispering to herself again.

"Cookie!" She said, shoving the small piece she cut off for Toya into his mouth without thinking.

The prince's eyes widened, before coughing and forcing himself to not spit it on the ground.

"Toya!- am so sorry! Do I get a medic!? Wheres the medic!?" Kohane jumped immediately, patting Toya on the back softly.

"Am okay- its too sweet-"

"Oh- oh my gosh I totally forgot! I got so used to seeing you eat sweets cause of Akito!" Kohane bit down on her lip, bringing out a cloth she held it to Toyas mouth.

"Spit it out-"

"I- I swallowed it..."

"Eh?-"

"You mentioned Akito and I swallowed it on impact-"

"... Am so sorry- I know you don't like sweets but!-"

"It's not like am allergic... I just can't handle sweets well-"

"I still worry..."

"I know you do. Your a very anxious hamster."

"Hamster?"

Toya stood up straight, clearing his throat. Realizing what he said wasn't something he usually would.

"Shiraishi's vocabulary has greatly impacted me."

"What does she say about me!?" Kohane said, shaking Toya for answers.

Toya stood still, trying to gather his thoughts before patting Kohanes head.

"She thinks your cute-"

"Really!?-" Kohane jumped with joy, her heart pumping.

"What else!?"

"Kohane- your grip-" Toya patted Kohanes hand on his arm now.

Kohane immediately let go, her eyes wide and innocent as she stepped back.

"Sorry Toya... I got a bit excited."

Toya nodded, laughing a bit as he walked.

"You've gotten much stronger Kohane, I'm surprised."

"You think so?- I hope your right."

"And, by the way, we have a ball in two months."

"Right!- I'll get started on the suits I'll get out tailor ready!-"

"No need, father said our new alley will be having them made."

"Oh alright- wait who?-"

"His royal highness, Shiraishi Ken."

"YOU MEAN WE'LL BE AT A BALL WITH AN!?"

Toya nodded, more surprised that Kohane's mind immediately went to seeing An at a ball.

"In a new tailored dress to!? And we'll be dancing- together... And we'll be having a good time..."

"Okay... Now your getting a bit ahead... Where did me and Akito go...?"

"The snack table, Akito loves checking those out at balls..." Kohane shrugged.

"Yeah. He did tell me that..."

"I wonder if An already knows..."

"Apparently she's the one who suggested the idea-"

"Oh your right!- it does sound like something An would recommend!"

Chapter Text

I was lowkey tiering for Kohane5 I GOT TOP 1K W A 2 HOUR TIME LIMIT.💔💔💔

So I will be posting yet again, so am sorry for disappearing LOL I PROMISE I DIDN'T ABANDON THE FIC

I had also met some REALLY cool ppl in a pjsk game and we all cosplay VBS so I lowkey got distracted💔💔💔

Chapter Text

Akito was simply walking through the gardens- with An. Of course, listening to the princess talk about the sandy blonde maid she had fallen in love with at first glance.

"And- oh my gosh!- am so gonna make the tailor gets matching dresses!- or maybe matching hand fans!" An cupped her own face, basically overheating as she walked with the ginger side by side. "I already had Mizuki ask someone draw out some cute designs!"

"Yeah- don't you wanna make sure that the rest of us get out clothes too...?" Akito mumbled, taking off his jacket and threw it onto a bench, An sat down picking up Akito's jacket to hang it off the side.

"Oh right... I totally forgot!~" She tilted her head, one hand raising to bonk herself on the head- something she picked up from hanging around Mizuki.

Akito froze, frowning as he stared at An.

"Your- are you serious...?"

"Whaaattt...?" She turned away, acting as though she was deaf.

"The fuck you mean 'whaaaattt'!?" Akito huffed, pointing a finger at the princess who covered her ears just to annoy Akito.

"Sorry!- priorities!-" 

"YOU LITTLE!-"

"Akito?-" A much calmer voice came from nearby, before Toya came into view. In much more casual clothes for once instead of his usual (aka his trained white day card).

Akito was still pointing at An, who was now sitting innocently on the bench.

"Oh hey Toya!- what brings you here?" An chirped, laughing as she stood and waved at the prince.

"Oh- Shiraishi. Good day to you." Toya said, bowing as usual.

"You don't have to bow you know...?" An mumbled, feeling a bit awkward since she thought they were on casual terms.

"I tend to forget... Apologies..." Toya mumbled, standing up straight quickly.

"But in the library- someone is looking for you." Toya said, having suddenly remembered why he entered the gardens looking for the princess before him.

"Oh... The library...? Wow... Alright..." An wasn't all too excited to meet someone at the library, she wasn't one to sit down for an hour and stand still. Which was usually why she spent most of her time walking around her gardens.

"Kohane was going to ask if you-" Toya didn't finish speaking. Before An's face brightened immeasurably.

"OKAYYY BYE SEE YOU GUYS LATERR!" She hopped up from the bench, picking up her dress as her shoes thumped against the pathway underneath.

"... Not unexpected." Toya hummed, walking closer to Akito.

"You'd think she'd at least wave at us goodbye..." Akito let out a small laugh. Not at all annoyed by An's antics. More pleased to get An's jokes out of his hair in the meantime.

"What's up T?" Akito asked, motioning for Toya to follow him deeper into the gardens. Finding a small pond, with fish that had their names scribbled onto a nearby rock.

"Nothing, I came to look for you actually." Toya hummed, happily trailing after the other.

"Oh yeah? What for?"

"..." Toya grew A bit silent, taking his time with standing next to Akito. Who seemed ever so calm, but Toya seemed nervous, a hint of a frown falling upon his lips as he brought his hand up towards his chin. A small blush staining Toyas cheeks.

"Well damn- what's up your ass?~" Akito hummed out, smiling ever so calmly. Having grown used to asking Tsukasa what was wrong, since Mizuki had also begun to influence him quite a bit.

Freezing up realizing he was talking to Toya. Toya turned towards him, frozen as well. The two exchanged surprised looks for A good while. Before Toya chuckled and Akito couldn't hold back his laughter.

"That was..."

"Fuck... Don't bring it up..."

"Very- very surprising Akito..."

"I blame Mizuki-"

"Of course you do..."

"What's that mean now?"

"Nothing, nothing Akito." Toya shook his head, smiling to himself as he decided to turn the subject away from what he was about to confess.

"Whats that rock?" Toya asked, pointing at the stone tablet near the lake. Unlike Akito he didn't know, so it was a good distraction.

"Oh- its the names of the fish in this very pond." Akito pointed at A black fish in the pond, and then spoke.

"That ones name is Nitto,"

Then he pointed at another, then another... then another, naming off all of the fishes except for one ginger catish.

"And that big catish fish?" Toya asked, noticing Akito only named all the rest except the certain one before them.

"Uhm- I forgot... Sorry-"

"Furry Akito...?" Toya was already next to the rock near the pond. Kneeling down reading out loud the name that wasn't spoken out loud.

Toya had to pause, bringing a hand up to his mouth to cover his own mouth. He had seen the scribble out of the old name, which was just Akito before hand. But then he saw that next to this certain name, there was another marking.

"I renamed one of the fishes An!"

-Love Mizuki

Akitos face fell, not at all knowing if Toya knew what Mizuki had intended to poke fun at.

But Toya laughed out loud standing up looking towards Akito.

"Furry Akito...?- Why would she decide to name you that...?" Toya smiled, but Akito didn't smile.

In Akito's mind if Toya found out that he was that ginger cat from before- would Toya hate him? Would Toya think he's a creep or something?-

Toyas smile froze, his hand reaching out to pat Akito on the shoulder.

"Akito?"

"Toya- there... There is something I should tell you..." Akito whispered, he didn't want to tell Toya. But he didn't know if Toya was still actively searching for Akito's cat form. Which made Akito feel bad, since he had basically abandoned the other in both forms. Except in one, where Toya would never find the cat again.

Toya only smiled though. And Akito held his breath, and Toya held his as well.

"I- I wanted to tell you-" Akito cut himself off.

Toyas heart raced, watching Akito fumble with his words.

"I was your ginger cat-" Akito blurted out.

And Toya froze as well, disappointed he didn't hear what he wanted to hear. Having thought Akito was going to confess to him. But he held back his disappointment, lifting both hands to rest on Akito's shoulders.

"I know." Toya whispered.

"Am sorry- wait what." Akito looked confused.

"Akito, I already knew you were that cat I spoiled."

Akitos face grew pale.

"And- AND YOU DIDN'T TELL ME ANYTHING!?"

"I didn't think-"

"AND YOU JUST LET ME PRANCE AROUND LIKE A SPOILED FAT CAT!?" Akito began shaking Toya.

Toya sighed, allowing the other to shake him. Though mentally he had to hold back his thoughts on how silly Akito looked.

"HOW LONG DID YOU KNOW!?"

"S-since you could turn human...?"

"SO SINCE THE FUCKING BALL!?"

"Well- technically a bit more after the ball-"

"WHY DIDN'T YOU SAY ANYTHING UNTIL NOW!?"

"Well- I didn't think it was that important-"

"NOT THAT IMPORTANT!? HOW THE FUCK WAS THAT NOT IMPORTANT!?" Akito cried, shaking the other like he was a rag doll by now.

"I- Well-" There really was no excuse. Toya just wanted to pamper Akito, and he couldn't exactly say that at the moment.

"You- you didn't tell anyone else... Right...?" Akito mumbled, he couldn't bear to know others that weren't Mizuki, Tsukasa, or An tell someone something as embarrassing as that.

"No...?" Toya acted as though Kohane, Mafuyu, And Rui, and his own dad... And his brothers (by now probably) all already knew.

Akito let out a sigh of relief, letting Toya go before crouching down before the pond.

"Thank goodness... I couldn't be able to handle the embarrassment knowing others knew I was spoiled by you in both forms..." Akito sighed.

"I think I could live with that..." Toya mumbled, more happy to spend his entire life spoiling the ginger rotten.

"Did you say something?-" Akito asked, looking up from the pond.

"No, nothing." Toya hummed.

Chapter Text

Ena had Mizuki over for something VERY IMPORTANT.

Having been excited since her brother had told her the princess wanted her to draw designs and paint dresses and suits on paper.

At first she really had hesitated, but Akito offered up cheesecake and some fancy looking chocolate from the dark kingdom.

Ena had given in, in the end she really couldn't say no to her annoying stupidly ugly little brother. Especially since she just remembered that time she yelled at him the day before he went missing and how much she missed him.

And here she was, discussing what was possibly the best way to create the dresses the princess had asked for. Hair tied in a small pony tail as Mizuki made herself comfortable on the bed.

"Enanan~ You should totally add small rose designs on the thin outer layer."

"You think so? It might look too much though."

"The cuter the better!"

Ena nodded, face stuffed into her art book. When she looked up she saw Mizuki doodling some things she wanted for each outfit.

Though they didn't look very good, so Ena obviously was the one drawing them into actual designs onto the dresses/suits.

"Enanan! Lets take a quick break okay?"

"But we just sat back down."

"Fine! Suit yourself~" Mizuki stood, slowly walking towards the door. Looking back at Ena then opening it. Then looking back again. Then she closed the door, and she opened it again-

"GET OUT AND DO YOUR SHIT MIZUKI."

"Okay! Okay am going! Don't rush me!" Mizuki cried, wiping a fake tear.

"Enanan HATES ME." She yelled, hearing Ena sigh and probably roll her eyes while she's at it.

Mizuki entered the kitchen, surprised to catch Akito at home and not in uniform or working.

"Hey Lil bro!~" She winked, coming closer to poke at the other.

"Whatcha doing? Can I help?"

"No. Am making something to snack on." Akito frowned, tugging the plates of cookies he made farther from Mizuki. Who just smiled and slid it back towards herself.

"Looks good!~ I'll borrow this one kay?" She hummed, grabbing a piece and biting it.

"Oh no. My mouth just slipped..." She sighed, happily chewing on the sweet treat.

"... Your lucky I can't kick you out right now." Akito hissed.

"Its good lil bro~ you should like, open a bakery or something!"

"Just hurry up and grab what you need."

"I just have a small tiny question, since your here okay?"

"What."

"Why did you ask Ena to draw the dresses."

"She was the only person I knew who had time with such short notice."

The two were silent, Akito still moving around and making another bigger batch. Mizuki leaned against the counter her smile actually dropping.

"You just wanted to help her out didn't you?"

"Shes an artist. And its not like shes busy so-"

"You wanted to make sure she felt like she was personally asked for by the princess."

"This time. Since its for Royalty- dad shouldn't be able to say anything about it."

"... Your a good brother, Akito."

Akito looked over at Mizuki through the corner of his eyes. Almost freezing up as he grabbed the plate Mizuki was about to snatch another cookie from.

"Shut up."

"Akito," Mizuki put a hand on the others shoulder. Her hand actually having fallen away from the plate.

"I mean it. You know how many people will be there to see her art come to life?"

"I know how many people will be there. You think I didn't over look these details?... She wants to ask her highness if she can paint at the ball."

"Imagine how happy she'll be to see her art getting peeked at while she's painting." She whispered.

"She might be criticized by others though...." Akito muttered to himself, wondering if he was pushing his luck to try and get more people to notice his sisters skills.

"Don't think about it like that, that wasn't where I intended for this conversation to go. Its about how great this will be for her. Not how horrible."

"I know. Your right."

"If royalty hires an artist. That's everything you need to get noticed."

"Maybe she'll see she's good enough to apply to an art school without dad trying to crush her."

"Yeah, but- I think I'd better get back now." Mizuki took some steps away, finally deciding she had said her part.

"What cookies do you like?" Akito suddenly asked, Mizuki immediately grinned and pointed at the tray Akito had slid away from her greedy hands.

"Those were so good!" She immediately hopped back over.

"Tell Ena to eat something." Akito moved to serve some milk.

"You're good at forcing her to take care of herself." He whispered, almost angry at the fact he couldn't offer the same comfort like Mizuki.

Mizuki ignored Akito's frown. Her shoulders tensing as she forced a grin acting like she didn't hear.

"Thanks Mum! I'll be sure to take good care of her for you!" Mizuki fled with the plate. Immediately Akito's head shot up angrily.

"STOP CALLING ME THAT YOU MENACE." 

"HAHA!~"

Mizuki had ran back towards Ena room, almost dropping some cookies but she saved them! (By eating them.)

"Enanan! Am back~ did you miss me?"

"What took so long-" Enas head shot up. Frowning as she watched Mizuki enter.

Mizuki hid the cookies behind the door, her head peeking inside.

"Hehe~ Am sorry princess~ I brought an apology!" Mizuki smiled, tilting her head. The nickname made Ena cheeks flush a little. Before suddenly turning angry and fussing.

"DON'T CALL ME THAT YOU-" 

"Cookies?" Mizuki opened the door fully.

"Ah-" Ena immediately shut up. 

"Your forgiven." Ena smiled, walking towards Mizuki. Mizuki hummed ready to be hugged or something but Ena took the plate and whispered to the cookies.

"How could I ever live without you?"

Mizuki felt her face fall. Mouth wide open as she walked in behind Ena. Sadly falling into her own seat. And Ena placed the plate of cooked down onto the round coffee table in her room. Art stands, paints, and art canvases everywhere. A bit of light peeking inside.

"Enanan... What about me?" Mizuki blinked clasping her hands together pleadingly.

"Your the one who fled work for the past 20 minutes." Ena hissed, picking up Mizuki's little doodles and passing them back over.

"I already finished the sketch. Check it over."

"Awe..." Mizuki took the sketch, before hearing the door open and seeing a certain ginger walk inside.

"Here's some milk," he placed down two glasses of milk. Ena didn't look up, only humming.

"Hah! Thanks Lil bro!~" Mizuki chirped. Immediately taking a small sip.

"Whatever, just make sure you don't get distracted."

"We won't we won't~" Mizuki nodded. But Ena side eyed her and raised a brow.

"There's no 'we' there's a reason he only said 'YOU' Mizuki." Ena grumbled.

"You guys are so mean sometimes..." Mizuki mumbled, her hair loose as she looked over the rough sketches.

Akito didn't say anything else, just turning away once he delivered a small drink. Seeing Ena had a small crumb on her face he felt happy enough to not make any remarks at the moment.

Chapter Text

Akito laid in bed, blinking as he heard Mizuki and Ena silently speak and discuss on what could be done for the dresses.

Akito listened silently, hearing Mizuki actually work and pay attention to details made Akito feel much more reassured. Knowing that his sister's chance to shine was in good hands he finally stopped pressing an ear against the wall.

Bored out of his mind as he laid down against his pillows. Bed still a mess from this morning but he made absolutely no move to fix it in the last few days... Was it days? Or weeks? Fuck he forgot again.

Instead of deciding to stick around bored and counting how long until he decided to bake something again, Akito grabbed some boots and a cloak. Heading out of his room and down the hallway. Finally deciding to walk around the kingdom late at night.

Just to take some time to think to himself. To let his mind wander on his new friendships with the dark kingdom and new relationship with the dark kingdoms prince.

Stepping outside he tugged on his cape, dead silent as he squinted to see. Grabbing a lamp from outside his family's porch and lighting it and holding it out. Finally able to see the cobble stone path in front of himself. 

His family's house was of course near the castle. Even though he had his own chambers in the castle, he usually tried his best to always get back home before curfew- well. Mostly before his dad would come out of his cave and search for scraps. (Moms cooking set out on the counter for him.)

Of course Akito felt embarrassed still living with his parents at the ripe age of 24. But the thought of leaving her sister alone with her dream shattering father reminded him why he would rather feel embarrassed than finally move into the castle and work a full on, shift like Tsukasa and Mizuki.

Akito knew it was okay to leave Ena alone at home with Mizuki. Since their mom and dad were usually asleep and even if they did wake up. They would immediately do what they needed to and fall right back asleep.

Akito felt small drops of rain fall onto his nose. Carefully he tugged on his hood. Rolling his eyes as he continued walking, deciding to head back to the castle and check if anything needed to be done.

Even if there wasn't anything that required him. It made a good walk, since he had been getting fed sweets by Toya like crazy.

The prince seemed to grow more and more fond with him every time Akito saw him. But suddenly remembering the fact that the other liked him-

"How- HOW THE FUCK DID I FORGET THAT!?" Akito felt his heart almost beat out of his chest again. Suddenly remembering the fact that Toya had fallen in love with his masked self. And now Toya knew the truth.

He had already guessed that Toya knew he was also the one at the ball during his birthday. Damn, how the hell did he forget something so crucial!? 

Akito immediately pinched himself, hissing as he slowly forced those thoughts away. Genuinely still by himself and had plenty of time to think his stupid actions over.

Thinking over every interaction by now, fuck he felt horrible. He must've looked like an oblivious idiot or he looked like he was just leading the prince on!

Akito's lips trembled, suddenly feeling like any work that was important him didn't interest him anymore. Suddenly having the urge to go and visit Toya, the mere thought of the prince had his palms sweating and his feet moved faster suddenly not able to stand still even while walking.

Chapter Text

Akito silently walked through the gates of the light kingdoms castle, guards on their late night shift watched him enter. Nodding to acknowledge his presence.

Akito nodded in response, feeling all eyes on him since it was a boring night but he felt a bit uneasy. this person wasn't anything bad, hell. Even he watched others walk through the castle gates when he was on the night shift.

So he couldn't blame them, even if it made him feel like he was being pretty obvious on who he planned on visiting. 

How would the other knights know though? He wasn't obvious about anything.

When he finally came back down to earth he was already heading up the palace stairs. Exiting the first floor. Then finding another pair of stairs to make it to the 3rd floor then he began taking a turn. Already heading for An's room. 

Akito didn't want to go around looking for Toyas room. He would rather not interrupt someone else's sleep. Besides, if Toya had kept his schedule from when Akito was A cat in the dark kingdom. Then the other would still be awake. Probably reading some book or passing time by counting sheep.

Watching the light enter through the large windows in the hallway red carpet leading the way through the maze of halls. It was A comforting sight. Silent and familiar, even as his mind reeled with wanting to know what he himself was doing.

Why was he trying to know where Toyas room was? What would he even do when he got there anyway? 

Slowly coming to a stop outside of An's chambers. Akito knocked, before calling out.

"Your highness, are you awake?"

He listened for A while. Before hearing whispers and some rustling of blankets. Before he heard bare feet padding on the wooden floor.

Suddenly the door creaked open and An peeked her head out.

"What are you doing?" She asked, smiling as she saw it was just Akito. Before becoming confused.

"Aren't you suppose to be at home?"

"Well, I'll head home soon... I just wanted to ask something." Akito said, not batting an eye at An's night gown. Suddenly seeing the star pattern on it. He smirked.

"That's a nice pattern..." He snickered eyes locking onto the gown.

"Shut up, my grandma gifted it to me..."

"What are you 8?" 

"It's cute!- But whatever!- that's not the reason your here!" An hissed, hiding her night gown behind the door.

"Right, I just wanted to ask if you knew where Toyas room is..."  He hummed. Trying to look like he wasn't that interested in his own question.

"Oh? Your prince?"

"He's not my prince. It's- just answer the damn question..."

"Yeah, yeah, sure he isn't... Well, he's at the 4th guest room in the opposite hall." An said, rolling her eyes. Before staring at Akito for a while.

"Go visit your husband now. Am sure he misses you~" She teased. Obviously poking fun at Akito in return for making fun of her gown.

"He's not my!-" Akito had the door shut in his face as he hissed at An's stupid tease.

"So annoying..." He mumbled, turning around immediately and speed walking down to the other hall.

When Akito made it over. He held his breath as he knocked. Waiting for an answer. Immediately deciding his idea was stupid after a hot minute of silence he was about to start walking. Before the door opened and Toya stood before him.

"Akito..." Toya said, whispering his name softly, almost saying it like it was a dream- fuck why was that making him giddy!?

"I- Hey... I almost thought you were asleep..." 

"No, come on in though." 

Toya took A step back, leaving enough space for Akito to enter. Akito nodded, immediately stepping inside into the others room. 

Chapter Text

Hearing the door shut behind him Akito felt nervous. Turning around to see Toyas warm grey eyes gazing at him softly.

"I didn't expect you to show up so randomly."

"I didn't either..." Akito said, sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck with his right hand. 

"Oh who am I kidding. You look way too happy that am here." Akito frowned, a tint of blush already staining his own cheeks.

"Do I really?" Toya tilted his head innocently. Not at all attempting to remove the smirk off his face.

"How could I not?" Toya hummed, stepping closer to Akito like it was second nature.

Akito's heart skipped another beat, taking a step back in response.

"Pft... Did you miss me?" Akito raised a brow. Trying to tease the other. 

But Toyas warm eyes only widened, before reaching a hand out to grab one of Akito's and press it to his lips.

"Very much,"

Akito tugged his hand away, immediately growing red he huffed.

"You-"

"Hmm?" Toya hummed innocently, reaching for Akito's other hand this time and intertwined their hands together.

Akito went silent, Toya seemed to only enjoy the others flushed face. His arm wrapping around the others waist to press Akito close.

"I missed you so much..." Toya whispered, his mouth brushing over the others ear.

"Mhm..." Akito only hummed in response. Making Toya sigh and rub his thumb over the back of Akito's hand.

"Did you miss me?" Toya asked, his smile hidden from Akito's gaze.

The ginger gently nodded, leaning into the others touch slowly.

"Yeah, I did."

Toya let out a small chuckle, gently holding Akito and swaying back and forth.

"Though, am very, very confused. Why are you at the castle so late?" Toya said, his cheek pressed against Akito's shoulder suddenly. Leaning down a bit pressing his weight onto Akito.

Akito held his breath again, gently patting the others back.

"Because I like you."

Toya froze for A split second, before nodding and pressing a small kiss to Akito's neck.

"I know my love. I know." Toya said, nuzzling into Akito's neck pressing multiple kisses.

"Your insufferable..." Akito said, pressing A hand to Toyas mouth.

"I love you too." Toya said, his voice muffled by Akito's hand. Before gently pressing kisses there too.

Akito's face turned pure red,

"YOU!-" Akito hissed, suddenly feeling too embarrassed to continue. Both hands covering Toyas mouth.

Toya blinked, suddenly becoming a sad puppy he stopped kissing the others palm.

Akito's heart clenched before sighing and pulling his hands away, 

"Fine." Akito mumbled, before his mouth was covered by Toyas.

Akito's eyes widened, before immediately closing shut. Mouth moving against Toyas. 

Toyas hands immediately moved to encourage Akito's arms to wrap around his neck. Once that was finished Toyas arms wrapped around Akito's waist.

Toyas tongue gently lapped at Akito's lips. Suddenly demanding entrance, when Akito laughed at the others silent plead, Toya bit the others lip. Akito gasped almost ready to point a finger at the other.

But as soon as Akito's mouth opened Toyas tongue slipped inside. Exploring greedily, making Akito shudder, it was a good while before they finally pulled away. Toya held a smirk on his face, and Akito gave light pants.

"You planned that didn't you."

"Yes, my love. I did." Toya said, one hand already tracing the gingers cheek. Before heading in for another kiss. And Akito didn't stop him, both hands cupping Toyas face gently.

Toya continued kissing the other. Even as Akito struggled to keep up with his own enthusiasm. Toya found himself pressing closer, wanting more. But refusing to take such a leap when he promised to take his time with Akito.

"Just one more..." Toya whispered against Akito's lips. 

Toya broke back, before immediately kissing the other again. Then again, and again. Until Akito finally stopped him.

"No more-"

"One more Akito..." Toya pleaded, too lost in kissing the other after finally being able to after so long of pinning after him.

Chapter Text

Ena drew in her notebook, drawing even as she heard raindrops fall onto her window. Scribbling before tearing out the same paper and shoving another cookie into her mouth.

"This- this is all shit!" Ena hissed. Her head shoved into her book, by now it was 2am. Akito had just returned home. Covering his face and mouth as he stumbled into his room. Absolutely ignoring her and Mizuki.

Ena knew she shouldn't be worried. She had much more important things to focus on. But she hated knowing that Akito wouldn't tell her anything. He didn't even tell her why he was gone for months on end. 

Though- his cat form was fatter than all the stray cats around the kingdom. Did he go somewhere? It is pretty weird how the dark kingdom is suddenly best friends with the light kingdom. Now that she thought about it.

Was Akito sent on a mission? A spy? Is that why he's a fat furry now?

"Enamon?" Mizuki tilted her head, Ena immediately snapped out of her thoughts. 

Blinking over at Mizuki, both of them looked tired. Yawning every 5 seconds. Unable to keep their eyes open for 8 minutes. 

"What now Mizuki?" Ena groaned, one hand fisting in her own short brown hair leaning against the table, while she erased the stupid doodle of her brothers furry cat form.

Ena sighed finally unable to force herself to draw anymore. She turned to Mizuki who gazed at her seriously. An expression she hadn't seen since Akito was missing and she was crying into her pillow every night.

"Let's take a break." Mizuki said, grabbing the notebook from Ena's hand and placing it onto the table. Tugging Ena up by the hand she moved to lay Ena down on the bed.

"... Your right. We should continue working when we're in our best minds." 

"I can't screw this up. I have a chance to prove myself to dad... To myself..." Enas brow furrowed. Watching as Mizuki turned the light off and crawled into the dark space next to her left.

"Don't you have a sleeping bag?" 

"Enamon... Don't you love me!? My back will hurt and I won't be able to work!" Mizuki said, nuzzling into Enas blanket without a second thought. Like it came to her as second nature.

Ena felt her heart softened, she shoved a pillow into Mizuki's face.

"Fine whatever. " Ena laid back, Mizuki had the pillow under her head.

...

Ena turned towards Mizuki, burrowing her brows.

"What are you staring at me for...?" Ena finally whispered, staring at the light linked haired girl in the darkness.

"Haha... Enanan... You really don't change."

"What does that mean?"

"Nothing... Please just stay the same." 

Ena raised a brow, but Mizuki just laughed it off and tugged the blanket over herself more.

"Ah!~ Enamon! Am so cold! Share some blanket! Hey stop hogging it all!-"

"Mizuki!"

"Hey- wait!- stop trying to kick me off now!" Mizuki cried, rolling off even as she tried clawing at the sheets.

"Enanan..." She sniffled, crawling back into her spot on the bed.

"Fine fine... Hug me to bed and I'll be warm to ya know..." She said, wiggling her brows, but she was met with another pillow to the face.

Ena stared at Mizuki who snickered. Then she tugged her up and held her close.

"Enanan?" Mizuki whispered, feeling Ena hold her tightly.

"Please don't disappear."

"I-"

Ena stuffed her face into Mizuki's hair. It smelt like something sweet. Reminding her of how much time she's grown used to Mizuki being around.

Mizuki really was keeping her anchored when Akito had gone missing.

Wasn't she?

Sometimes you only notice what's precious once you've lost it.

"But I refuse to lose you."

Mizuki nuzzled close. Smiling to herself as she hugged Ena back.

"Your so warm Enanan..." Mizuki whispered. Her face stuffed into Enas chest.

"Your so insufferable, Mizuki." Ena mumbled, pressing the other closer. Unable to bring herself to pull away. She felt like she wanted to cry. But at the same time she couldn't. Plus that would ruin the moment. So she simply bite her lower lip and forced herself silent.