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JaCrispy
Elder Member
Philip stood under the arching doorway of the castle entrance, the place that he had called home all his life. Despite his sombre mood, the sun continued to shine down, illuminating the brilliant view of the village below. He didn't know when he would return or if he would, but at least he had his paintings to remember it. The grip on his satchel tightened as he let out a sigh and walked towards the carriage where his Mother and Father were waiting. All his belongings were on their way to is new home, a place he'd never even seen before, but he had insisted that his paints travelled with him. They were too precious to him, his only sense of freedom.
The carriage ride had been anything but interesting. There was a dull ache in his head from the constant talks of etiquette he was receiving from his Mother, as if he hadn't already endured these talks all week. His gaze was drawn to the window of the carriage, the view was breathtaking. It was nothing that he was used to, made entirely of earthy tones, but beautiful nonetheless. A large castle came into view and the realisation began to dawn on him that soon he was going to meet the man he was betrothed to. He pulled himself up straighter as the carriage slowly came to a halt outside the castle entrance. The family were escorted to the throne room, Philip knew there was no turning back from here and he could only hope that the Prince was at least tolerable. He took a calming breath, letting a small smile fall onto his features, this was it. With a final reassuring smile from his mother, they entered.
The carriage ride had been anything but interesting. There was a dull ache in his head from the constant talks of etiquette he was receiving from his Mother, as if he hadn't already endured these talks all week. His gaze was drawn to the window of the carriage, the view was breathtaking. It was nothing that he was used to, made entirely of earthy tones, but beautiful nonetheless. A large castle came into view and the realisation began to dawn on him that soon he was going to meet the man he was betrothed to. He pulled himself up straighter as the carriage slowly came to a halt outside the castle entrance. The family were escorted to the throne room, Philip knew there was no turning back from here and he could only hope that the Prince was at least tolerable. He took a calming breath, letting a small smile fall onto his features, this was it. With a final reassuring smile from his mother, they entered.
VALEN T.
Member
Prince Kousuke of Horohoma
[ note: the times new roman font is used for when the people are talking in japanese ]
A curly-haired man stands in the empty stone corridor, his dark eyes peeking through the iron railings hugging the plain glass windows with their anomalous swirls and designs. The castle belonging to his family rests atop a mountain peak, giving the knights and archers patrolling the bastions a razor clear view of anything unseeming that conspired within these ranges.
It also gives him, Kousukeβthe eldest son of the royal familyβa cloudy sight of the carriage corners that peek through the dense coniferous trees lining the only road-passage leading to the Horohoma castle. Oh, how he's been dreading this day.
"Your beau's arriving," comes a snide snicker behind him, and he doesn't have to turn to know that his elder sister, Mayumi, is standing dressed in the black and blue sokutai (traditional Japanese garments worn by people in the Imperial court. Mayumi's design: x) their mother had specifically tailored for her daughter to wear on this day. Unlike his sister who's wearing hers now, Kousuke's sokutai lays in his chambers, on his sheets without so much a wrinkle on the cloth, because he didn't bother to even touch it.
It's not something they have to wear often, not something they wear at all unless there are visitors of exalted repute visiting. Like today. Kousuke sighs, "Not my beau, Oneesan." Ever since the news of his wedding was disclosed to the rest of the family, his sisters have been relentless in teasing him about the life he'll have to give up.
It was useless to correct her, as it always is, because she still bounces on her feet to embellish her orders of "Okaasan is calling for you: she says your beau's almost here!" with the clacks of her wooden sandals on the cobblestone floor. He turns away from the window, taking one last glance outside to confirm that indeed, the carriage from before is nowhere to be seen, and follows far behind his sister to the great hall where his the rest of his family and the others are most likely waiting.
The first thing he notices upon his arrival is the heavy feel of the vehement glare his mother sends his way, most probably for not adhering to her clothing edict, and wearing what his normal uniform (design: x but with green accents). The second thing that attracts his attention just a breath too late, are the people standing right before his mother and sisters.
"My son," the Queen extends an arm to welcome him into their exclusive group, before introducing the one person here his sisters have not stopped tittering about since the news of the engagement was broken: "Meet Prince Phillip of Sommeils DorΓ©s." She gestures to the handsome young man with even more kinks in his hair than Kousuke.
He takes the initiative to bow with his right hand folded on his front. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Prince Phillip," he says once he straightens, "I've been looking forward to this day." His voice is a monotonous cadence: pleasing to hear, but carrying not a hint of emotion the word "pleasure" and "looking forward to" should carry. His sisters must already be rolling their eyes at his deliberate stinginess, behind his back.
His mother still cracks a smile, "You must be tired from your travels! The servants will have your belongings at your chambers. Would you like to have tea with us outside after you've rested? Today's one of those rare days when the weather's simply de-lightful!"
A curly-haired man stands in the empty stone corridor, his dark eyes peeking through the iron railings hugging the plain glass windows with their anomalous swirls and designs. The castle belonging to his family rests atop a mountain peak, giving the knights and archers patrolling the bastions a razor clear view of anything unseeming that conspired within these ranges.
It also gives him, Kousukeβthe eldest son of the royal familyβa cloudy sight of the carriage corners that peek through the dense coniferous trees lining the only road-passage leading to the Horohoma castle. Oh, how he's been dreading this day.
"Your beau's arriving," comes a snide snicker behind him, and he doesn't have to turn to know that his elder sister, Mayumi, is standing dressed in the black and blue sokutai (traditional Japanese garments worn by people in the Imperial court. Mayumi's design: x) their mother had specifically tailored for her daughter to wear on this day. Unlike his sister who's wearing hers now, Kousuke's sokutai lays in his chambers, on his sheets without so much a wrinkle on the cloth, because he didn't bother to even touch it.
It's not something they have to wear often, not something they wear at all unless there are visitors of exalted repute visiting. Like today. Kousuke sighs, "Not my beau, Oneesan." Ever since the news of his wedding was disclosed to the rest of the family, his sisters have been relentless in teasing him about the life he'll have to give up.
It was useless to correct her, as it always is, because she still bounces on her feet to embellish her orders of "Okaasan is calling for you: she says your beau's almost here!" with the clacks of her wooden sandals on the cobblestone floor. He turns away from the window, taking one last glance outside to confirm that indeed, the carriage from before is nowhere to be seen, and follows far behind his sister to the great hall where his the rest of his family and the others are most likely waiting.
The first thing he notices upon his arrival is the heavy feel of the vehement glare his mother sends his way, most probably for not adhering to her clothing edict, and wearing what his normal uniform (design: x but with green accents). The second thing that attracts his attention just a breath too late, are the people standing right before his mother and sisters.
"My son," the Queen extends an arm to welcome him into their exclusive group, before introducing the one person here his sisters have not stopped tittering about since the news of the engagement was broken: "Meet Prince Phillip of Sommeils DorΓ©s." She gestures to the handsome young man with even more kinks in his hair than Kousuke.
He takes the initiative to bow with his right hand folded on his front. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Prince Phillip," he says once he straightens, "I've been looking forward to this day." His voice is a monotonous cadence: pleasing to hear, but carrying not a hint of emotion the word "pleasure" and "looking forward to" should carry. His sisters must already be rolling their eyes at his deliberate stinginess, behind his back.
His mother still cracks a smile, "You must be tired from your travels! The servants will have your belongings at your chambers. Would you like to have tea with us outside after you've rested? Today's one of those rare days when the weather's simply de-lightful!"
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JaCrispy
Elder Member
What he saw was not what he expected, well he didn't actually know what to expect in all honesty. Naturally, his parents had tried to convince him that the other prince was a handsome and regal young man. Now that he was stood in front of the other man, he could truly admire the attractive features. The hand by his side twitched slightly, trying to contain the urge to reach out and touch the curly mop of hair on the others head, wondering if it was as soft as it looked. Although he was quickly pulled from his thoughts as the other man bowed and spoke in an unexpectedly emotionless tone.
Philip had to quickly school his expression, not wanting the shock he was feeling to show. He smiled softly, returning the bow. "The pleasure is mine, Prince Kosuke. I cannot wait to learn more about you." The hand that rested on his satchel tightened slightly, hoping that his voice had not betrayed him, the last thing he wanted was to appear nervous in front of the rather confident looking Prince.
He allowed his mother to converse with the Queen, taking the time to survey the regal and unusual attire some of the people in the room had worn. Since he hadn't been allowed to visit other countries often, that usually fell to his younger brother the crown prince, he had never been able to see what the world has offered. The prince looked like he had just stepped out of a painting. 'could a painting even properly encapsulate his harsh yet handsome features. His train of though was once again derailed as he noticed his mother gesturing towards him. "The journey was long but beautifully scenic, I am sure my son is excited to spend much time admiring it." Philip smiled kindly to the Queen, finally feeling more at ease when he didn't need to look at the other man. "Tea outside would be lovely your highness."
Once the conversation had ended, they were lead to their chambers. Philip set his satchel down and straightened out his shirt, deciding to idly look around his room until he had to once again face his soon to be family.
Philip had to quickly school his expression, not wanting the shock he was feeling to show. He smiled softly, returning the bow. "The pleasure is mine, Prince Kosuke. I cannot wait to learn more about you." The hand that rested on his satchel tightened slightly, hoping that his voice had not betrayed him, the last thing he wanted was to appear nervous in front of the rather confident looking Prince.
He allowed his mother to converse with the Queen, taking the time to survey the regal and unusual attire some of the people in the room had worn. Since he hadn't been allowed to visit other countries often, that usually fell to his younger brother the crown prince, he had never been able to see what the world has offered. The prince looked like he had just stepped out of a painting. 'could a painting even properly encapsulate his harsh yet handsome features. His train of though was once again derailed as he noticed his mother gesturing towards him. "The journey was long but beautifully scenic, I am sure my son is excited to spend much time admiring it." Philip smiled kindly to the Queen, finally feeling more at ease when he didn't need to look at the other man. "Tea outside would be lovely your highness."
Once the conversation had ended, they were lead to their chambers. Philip set his satchel down and straightened out his shirt, deciding to idly look around his room until he had to once again face his soon to be family.
VALEN T.
Member
Prince Kousuke of Horohoma
Kousuke watches the other guests follow the attendants to their chambers in the west wing. He scoffs remembering the words the Queen of Sommeils DorΓ©s, about admiring the scenery. "He's going to want to leave soon," Kousuke bets right as the shadows disappear in the corridor, leaving him and his family alone in the Great Hall. "When he realises Horohoma is nothing like his homeland," he explains, turning to face his mother and two sisters.
The Queen gives him a stern look. "Fujiwara Kousuke," her voice is curt, and her eyebrows are knitted in the middle. He knows she already worries for his fiancΓ© acclimating to the sudden change of pace, and he knows she worries that said fiancΓ©'s husband will make the process a lot more difficult than it has to be (isn't that insulting; he's not some heartless bastard). "You will be on your best behaviour this week and the weeks to come," she sniffs, her mouth pulled downwards in a concerned frown.
Beside her, Mayumi covers her mouth when she titters like a little sparrow. "Don't fret, Okaasan, Kou-chan is already very taken by the Prince, isn't he?"
The brunet in question sighs, not wanting to be projected to this conversation any longer. "If you'll excuse me." Before his mother can remind him, he swiftly adds, "I will join you at tea. You need not have a servant running to fetch me." And with that, he takes his temporary leave to the castle library. He would have headed for the stables if he had a firmer belief that he would return at time, but he tends to lose track of time whenever he's out hunting, exploring, or patrolling. So he spends a majority of the afternoon lounging casually in the solar with a heavy literature book his finger had randomly caught on while browsing the endless shelves of knowledge in the library.
It's only when the natural light inside the room starts to taper just the slightest that Kousuke closes his book and places it on the wooden table in front. He heaves his legs off where he'd crossed them on the armrest (don't tell his mother, but he'd been sitting in a quite the uninhibited manner, sprawled across the whole length of the sofa).
He heads straight for the tea gardens, the Roji-niwa (design: x); one of the servants approaches him as he marches down the hallway, asking if "His Royal Highness would like me to arrange a bath?" Kousuke dismisses him with a wave of his hand that's enough to notify the man that he intends to, but later in the evening.
He's the first person who arrives while the service staff are still arranging the tea room (design: x). Despite being a very "modernised" Japanese family, the Fujiwaras have still maintained ties to their cultural heritage in forms of, for example, this very tea garden and the sokutai.
He doesn't dawdle long where his presence is unneeded, instead retracing his steps back to gate (design: x) that leads into the gardens, opting to wait here to receive the guests; one in particular who his mother especially wants him to have affinities with.
The Queen gives him a stern look. "Fujiwara Kousuke," her voice is curt, and her eyebrows are knitted in the middle. He knows she already worries for his fiancΓ© acclimating to the sudden change of pace, and he knows she worries that said fiancΓ©'s husband will make the process a lot more difficult than it has to be (isn't that insulting; he's not some heartless bastard). "You will be on your best behaviour this week and the weeks to come," she sniffs, her mouth pulled downwards in a concerned frown.
Beside her, Mayumi covers her mouth when she titters like a little sparrow. "Don't fret, Okaasan, Kou-chan is already very taken by the Prince, isn't he?"
The brunet in question sighs, not wanting to be projected to this conversation any longer. "If you'll excuse me." Before his mother can remind him, he swiftly adds, "I will join you at tea. You need not have a servant running to fetch me." And with that, he takes his temporary leave to the castle library. He would have headed for the stables if he had a firmer belief that he would return at time, but he tends to lose track of time whenever he's out hunting, exploring, or patrolling. So he spends a majority of the afternoon lounging casually in the solar with a heavy literature book his finger had randomly caught on while browsing the endless shelves of knowledge in the library.
It's only when the natural light inside the room starts to taper just the slightest that Kousuke closes his book and places it on the wooden table in front. He heaves his legs off where he'd crossed them on the armrest (don't tell his mother, but he'd been sitting in a quite the uninhibited manner, sprawled across the whole length of the sofa).
He heads straight for the tea gardens, the Roji-niwa (design: x); one of the servants approaches him as he marches down the hallway, asking if "His Royal Highness would like me to arrange a bath?" Kousuke dismisses him with a wave of his hand that's enough to notify the man that he intends to, but later in the evening.
He's the first person who arrives while the service staff are still arranging the tea room (design: x). Despite being a very "modernised" Japanese family, the Fujiwaras have still maintained ties to their cultural heritage in forms of, for example, this very tea garden and the sokutai.
He doesn't dawdle long where his presence is unneeded, instead retracing his steps back to gate (design: x) that leads into the gardens, opting to wait here to receive the guests; one in particular who his mother especially wants him to have affinities with.
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JaCrispy
Elder Member
As the time slowly passes, Philips fingers itched to reach towards his paints. The view from his window alone was so breathtaking that it would be a sin not to capture it. However, he knew that his mother would be absolutely mortified if he appeared at tea, covered in ink and paint which often happened when he immersed himself into his artwork. Despite his better judgement, the young man eagerly grabbed his satchel and settled down by the window. Time seemed to fly past then, the scenery reflected on the thick piece of parchment in his hands. For the first time today, he felt completely at ease.
The smile fell from his face when his mother appeared at his door with a guard by her side. Philip neatly tucked his hands behind his back, mostly to hide the small smudges of ink from his mother, and followed them to their destination. He watched in awe as they travelled through the grounds, he'd never seen greenery like this, it was beautiful and had a calming aura. The distraction meant that he wasn't paying attention to his surroundings, stumbling over a piece of the stone path. Silently he prayed that no one saw, quickly trying to straighten up.
Once they approached the wooden gates, he noticed the other man standing, looking ethereal in the afternoon light. "Hello, Prince Kousuke. Shall we head into the tea room?" Philip asked once he reached the other man, remembering to bow in respect. It wasn't a very usual situation for him, he didn't know if he was too formal or not for his future husband. They entered the room and settled down comfortably. Philip gratefully taking the tea, no longer bothering to hide his hands from his mother in the presence of others. Too focused on enjoying the warm liquid.
The smile fell from his face when his mother appeared at his door with a guard by her side. Philip neatly tucked his hands behind his back, mostly to hide the small smudges of ink from his mother, and followed them to their destination. He watched in awe as they travelled through the grounds, he'd never seen greenery like this, it was beautiful and had a calming aura. The distraction meant that he wasn't paying attention to his surroundings, stumbling over a piece of the stone path. Silently he prayed that no one saw, quickly trying to straighten up.
Once they approached the wooden gates, he noticed the other man standing, looking ethereal in the afternoon light. "Hello, Prince Kousuke. Shall we head into the tea room?" Philip asked once he reached the other man, remembering to bow in respect. It wasn't a very usual situation for him, he didn't know if he was too formal or not for his future husband. They entered the room and settled down comfortably. Philip gratefully taking the tea, no longer bothering to hide his hands from his mother in the presence of others. Too focused on enjoying the warm liquid.
VALEN T.
Member
Prince Kousuke of Horohoma
Kousuke greets the Prince and his mother when they arrive only moments after his own mother and sisters do, heading straight to the sukiya (tearoom). He follows behind them, and settles in front of the Sommeils DorΓ©s guests at the table. The atmosphere around them is as formal as can be: the female servers pour them steaming bancha tea in the yunomi cups, and besides the shuffling of feet on the tatami mats, there's no other sound made in the room.
Chikako, his younger sister sitting to his left, elbows his under the table, and he discreetly raises his eyebrows at her. No audible words are exchanged between them but she the way her eyes flit across the chabudai conveys her message, and Kousuke follows her line of sight. Oh? This time around, his expression is not one of mild displeasure, but genuine curiosity, and beside him, he knows Chikako must be buzzing with excitement knowing that the newest addition to their family holds some kind of approbation for the arts too. Or so he assumes, judging by the colourful state of Phillip's hands. The thought itselfβof his sister and his fiancΓ© getting on wellβis enough to bring a small smile to his face; one he hides behind the rim of his cup when he takes another sip of his tea.
Outside, the weather indeed is pleasant today: a light breeze that whispers past the green trees and teases the Furin tied to the outer edge of the patio ceiling opening the tearoom to such a wonderful view. Kousuke doesn't spend a lot of time here, but it's by far his most favourite location in the castle. That's why he places his cup on the coaster, and directs his attention to the people sitting in front of him.
"Your Highness," he addresses the Queen, and feels the prying gaze of his sisters on him too. "If you would allow it, may I take Prince Phillip with me for a walk in the garden?" He can practically hear his mother's breath stop in her throat, which is why he rushes to add: "We won't venture too far, nor too long. I only wish to show him the nishikigoi pond and the azaleas. Something tells me..." His eyes betray him as steal a glance at the warm-skinned Prince sitting across from him, but he's quick to reel them right back to where they were focused on his teacup. He clears his throat, "I feel that he may appreciate them."
He refers to the paint coating the Prince's hands when he speaks but that's not the only reason: he's not heartless, as he affirmed earlier. He doesn't want Phillip to feel alienated in Horohoma, and does want him to have at least one place in the castle where he feels at ease. For Kousuke, it's the tea garden, and he wants to share it with his lover as well.
Chikako, his younger sister sitting to his left, elbows his under the table, and he discreetly raises his eyebrows at her. No audible words are exchanged between them but she the way her eyes flit across the chabudai conveys her message, and Kousuke follows her line of sight. Oh? This time around, his expression is not one of mild displeasure, but genuine curiosity, and beside him, he knows Chikako must be buzzing with excitement knowing that the newest addition to their family holds some kind of approbation for the arts too. Or so he assumes, judging by the colourful state of Phillip's hands. The thought itselfβof his sister and his fiancΓ© getting on wellβis enough to bring a small smile to his face; one he hides behind the rim of his cup when he takes another sip of his tea.
Outside, the weather indeed is pleasant today: a light breeze that whispers past the green trees and teases the Furin tied to the outer edge of the patio ceiling opening the tearoom to such a wonderful view. Kousuke doesn't spend a lot of time here, but it's by far his most favourite location in the castle. That's why he places his cup on the coaster, and directs his attention to the people sitting in front of him.
"Your Highness," he addresses the Queen, and feels the prying gaze of his sisters on him too. "If you would allow it, may I take Prince Phillip with me for a walk in the garden?" He can practically hear his mother's breath stop in her throat, which is why he rushes to add: "We won't venture too far, nor too long. I only wish to show him the nishikigoi pond and the azaleas. Something tells me..." His eyes betray him as steal a glance at the warm-skinned Prince sitting across from him, but he's quick to reel them right back to where they were focused on his teacup. He clears his throat, "I feel that he may appreciate them."
He refers to the paint coating the Prince's hands when he speaks but that's not the only reason: he's not heartless, as he affirmed earlier. He doesn't want Phillip to feel alienated in Horohoma, and does want him to have at least one place in the castle where he feels at ease. For Kousuke, it's the tea garden, and he wants to share it with his lover as well.
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JaCrispy
Elder Member
The tea had been pleasant, idle conversation taking place around him. Philips mind wandered towards the other Prince, in this enviroment Prince Kousuke seemed more relaxed. A hint of a smile played at his lips as he sipped on the small cup of tea.
It was all rather different than from his own kingdom. Here, he observed, was more relaxed and dare he say formal. Sommeils DorΓ©s however, was more lively seeing as many of their casual talks were made with a glass or two of their national wine. He wondered if there was any sent to Horohama as a gift to celebrate the engagement. The smile on his face faded softly into a small look of contemplation. It was true that he had always known he would never have a say in whom he married, yet a small part of him always wished it would be for love he'd marry.
Philip lifted his gaze from the small cup as Kousuke spoke. The other mans tone seemed to have a hint of emotion that Philip couldn't quite place, although the fact itself that he wasnt as monotonous as their first meeting made him perk up.
His mother noticed this, satisfied in the knowledge that her son was happy and in good hands. "I trust that you will look after my son and it may be effective to allow you both some semblance of privacy to become acquainted with one another." The Queen had no worries about letting the boys roam the garden, Prince Kousuke seemed very mature and would most likely keep Philip from running off to explore by himself.
It was all rather different than from his own kingdom. Here, he observed, was more relaxed and dare he say formal. Sommeils DorΓ©s however, was more lively seeing as many of their casual talks were made with a glass or two of their national wine. He wondered if there was any sent to Horohama as a gift to celebrate the engagement. The smile on his face faded softly into a small look of contemplation. It was true that he had always known he would never have a say in whom he married, yet a small part of him always wished it would be for love he'd marry.
Philip lifted his gaze from the small cup as Kousuke spoke. The other mans tone seemed to have a hint of emotion that Philip couldn't quite place, although the fact itself that he wasnt as monotonous as their first meeting made him perk up.
His mother noticed this, satisfied in the knowledge that her son was happy and in good hands. "I trust that you will look after my son and it may be effective to allow you both some semblance of privacy to become acquainted with one another." The Queen had no worries about letting the boys roam the garden, Prince Kousuke seemed very mature and would most likely keep Philip from running off to explore by himself.
VALEN T.
Member
Prince Kousuke of Horohoma
Kousuke bows his head in respect when the Queen gives him permission, and rises from his spot without a word further, and before Mayumi can slither one into the conversation as well. "Send one of the servants for us if we do not return in time," he shares a meaningful gaze with his mother. She knows of the fine young man she's spent years raising and what a well-mannered prince he's bloomed into as a result, but as a mother, her concern is valid. He knows if an unbecoming subject were to spring up, either from an ignorant third party or the Queen of Horohoma, his sisters would handle it without hitch.
"Come with me." It doesn't feel proper to look the other Prince in the eyes when he speaks, especially in front of the audience comprising entirely of their families and the castle staff. And somehow, this mindset of his translates into speech as well, for his remains subdued as to not disturb even the finest of threads weaving their garments together.
He slips on the pair of shoes he'd left neatly outside the tearoom earlier, and waits for Phillip to join him, before leaving the others to their own company with one final bow.
He takes the lead in front, stepping on dewy rock slabs lining the path in the middle of the garden. If he hears closely, holds his breath for just a second, he can pick up on the faintest of susurration made by the crystal clear water painting the water fall. "It doesn't look like it's flowing," Kousuke comments when they take a curve left and the pond comes into view. The water's meandering, laminar flow does display the facade that the cascading water is but a mere captured image, but upon closer inspection, one can see the edges vibrating with a new kind of energy.
Kousuke has never been a spiritual or religious person, much to his mother's and tutors' chagrin, but there's no denying how the water garden places his nerves at ease with a gentle, loving hand, and how right now, he can feel the nature itself extending a welcoming embrace to the dark-haired Prince standing by him, and how the colourful koi fish gather by the corner of their habitat to greet the newcomer.
It makes him tremendously self-concious of his behaviour in the Great Hall today, so he turns his whole body towards the man written in records to be his even before his birth, and with a head lowered in shame, says: "I want to apologise for my disregard of you and your arrival in my kingdom. I understand neither of us had a say in this arrangement but after an afternoon to myself, I've realised the least I can do is be hospitable to my..." It's a little embarrassing how someone of his stratum and age stutters over the mere words "husband" and "fiancΓ©" when the prefix they succeed is "my". So he takes the easy way out, clearing his throat: "-To you. The least I can do is be hospitable to you."
Not only does he sound more self-assured, but he even has the courage to lift his gaze to meet Phillip's, only to turn away a blink later out of fear that his eyes may wander the man's countenance (which... he's not blind, Kousuke's knows Phillip is an attractive man, and that's where the issue rises too) and make him feel uncomfortable.
"Come with me." It doesn't feel proper to look the other Prince in the eyes when he speaks, especially in front of the audience comprising entirely of their families and the castle staff. And somehow, this mindset of his translates into speech as well, for his remains subdued as to not disturb even the finest of threads weaving their garments together.
He slips on the pair of shoes he'd left neatly outside the tearoom earlier, and waits for Phillip to join him, before leaving the others to their own company with one final bow.
He takes the lead in front, stepping on dewy rock slabs lining the path in the middle of the garden. If he hears closely, holds his breath for just a second, he can pick up on the faintest of susurration made by the crystal clear water painting the water fall. "It doesn't look like it's flowing," Kousuke comments when they take a curve left and the pond comes into view. The water's meandering, laminar flow does display the facade that the cascading water is but a mere captured image, but upon closer inspection, one can see the edges vibrating with a new kind of energy.
Kousuke has never been a spiritual or religious person, much to his mother's and tutors' chagrin, but there's no denying how the water garden places his nerves at ease with a gentle, loving hand, and how right now, he can feel the nature itself extending a welcoming embrace to the dark-haired Prince standing by him, and how the colourful koi fish gather by the corner of their habitat to greet the newcomer.
It makes him tremendously self-concious of his behaviour in the Great Hall today, so he turns his whole body towards the man written in records to be his even before his birth, and with a head lowered in shame, says: "I want to apologise for my disregard of you and your arrival in my kingdom. I understand neither of us had a say in this arrangement but after an afternoon to myself, I've realised the least I can do is be hospitable to my..." It's a little embarrassing how someone of his stratum and age stutters over the mere words "husband" and "fiancΓ©" when the prefix they succeed is "my". So he takes the easy way out, clearing his throat: "-To you. The least I can do is be hospitable to you."
Not only does he sound more self-assured, but he even has the courage to lift his gaze to meet Phillip's, only to turn away a blink later out of fear that his eyes may wander the man's countenance (which... he's not blind, Kousuke's knows Phillip is an attractive man, and that's where the issue rises too) and make him feel uncomfortable.
JaCrispy
Elder Member
Philip followed behind as Kousuke lead the way, taking time to admire both the surroundings and the other man. He could see why he wanted to take him here. It was a a very scenic garden, the wind only softly moving the leaves and plants.
As they stopped near the water, Philip had to resist the urge to dip his fingers into the waterfall. The sun reflected the vibrant colours of the Koi in a kaleidoscope of orange and golden rays. This time however, he did kneel down and gently dip his fingers in the water. The cool water, rippling around his finger tips as the fish happily swam around him.
Philip turned and straightened as the other began to adress him. Before he even spoke, Philip could see the change in his demeanor. Every other meeting the prince had stood tall and proud, but now he looked almost disappointed.
A small smile graced Philip's lips and he bowed his head sheepishly to hide it. The way he spoke, it was obvious the words he was trying to avoid. He understood why, those words had a certain weight to them that even he didnt want to use. "I accept your apology, thank you." Philip raised his gaze to meet the princes. "I truly do hope we learn more about each other and in time well, perhaps we may even begin to enjoy this arrangement ."
The prince cleared his throat and turned towards one of the nearby trees. "These are an interesting shape, never have I seen tress in such interesting patterns". It was a futile attempt to distract the other man from his previous words, that he didnt quite think through in the moment. His mother had always berated him for that in the past. 'A prince should think before he speaks' she would say constantly. Maybe now he understood why as he felt the embarrassment creeping up to dust his cheeks faintly.
As they stopped near the water, Philip had to resist the urge to dip his fingers into the waterfall. The sun reflected the vibrant colours of the Koi in a kaleidoscope of orange and golden rays. This time however, he did kneel down and gently dip his fingers in the water. The cool water, rippling around his finger tips as the fish happily swam around him.
Philip turned and straightened as the other began to adress him. Before he even spoke, Philip could see the change in his demeanor. Every other meeting the prince had stood tall and proud, but now he looked almost disappointed.
A small smile graced Philip's lips and he bowed his head sheepishly to hide it. The way he spoke, it was obvious the words he was trying to avoid. He understood why, those words had a certain weight to them that even he didnt want to use. "I accept your apology, thank you." Philip raised his gaze to meet the princes. "I truly do hope we learn more about each other and in time well, perhaps we may even begin to enjoy this arrangement ."
The prince cleared his throat and turned towards one of the nearby trees. "These are an interesting shape, never have I seen tress in such interesting patterns". It was a futile attempt to distract the other man from his previous words, that he didnt quite think through in the moment. His mother had always berated him for that in the past. 'A prince should think before he speaks' she would say constantly. Maybe now he understood why as he felt the embarrassment creeping up to dust his cheeks faintly.
VALEN T.
Member
Prince Kousuke of Horohoma
His expressions don't show how his mind barely computes the other Prince's words, "...may even begin to enjoy this arrangement," but they send a wave of mixed emotions through his being; none of which he wants to soil this evening pondering over. Of course, as a husband he has certain responsibilities and a role to fulfill, and a healthy relationship is built off but when Kousuke first became conscious of the fact that he's to be married to a scion of their allies, "enjoyment" was not the first word that came to mind. "Duty" would fit better with his image of their marriage.
To "Enjoy it!" is something he would expect Mayumi to shout at his face if she ever heard of the egregiously lengthy monologues Kousuke could conjure on this topic. And right now, to "Enjoy it!" is what his mind, if only subconsciously, agrees with, because he finds the subtle rouge highlighting Phillip's cheeks entirely endearing. "Ah, right." He goes along with Phillip's little slip of tongue as gratitude for changing the subject just earlier. "Some of these are pineβnative to our landβand others are imported. Our ancestors were very spiritual and philosophical people. The shapes and designs, the layout of the garden, and even the direction this stream flows was important to them."
"It's interesting, but I speak objectively." His hands are clasped neatly behind his back as he moves closer to bridge the gap between the brunet and himself. He's careful not to overstep the line into Phillip's personal spaceβthey've only just metβbut stands close enough so their meeting doesn't feel emotionally lacking from his side. "I correct myself: it's something you might find interesting." He gestures to the state of Phillip's hands, "Does His Highness enjoy the arts?"
Kousuke kneels on the damp ground, staining the knee-bend of his trousers just to dip his fingers in the cool water like Phillip had done so a few moments earlier. "May I?" He asks, and takes one of the Prince's hands in both of his, using his thumbs to rub out the sleets of colour. "My younger sister, Chikako, will flock to you if you're not careful," he teases. "She has no one who indulges in the same hobbies as her. And while I do not discourage artistic expression, she tends to take it a level further." He chuckles lightly, reminiscing the one time the castle servants had found her absolutely lathed in mud after a particularly heavy cloudburst.
To "Enjoy it!" is something he would expect Mayumi to shout at his face if she ever heard of the egregiously lengthy monologues Kousuke could conjure on this topic. And right now, to "Enjoy it!" is what his mind, if only subconsciously, agrees with, because he finds the subtle rouge highlighting Phillip's cheeks entirely endearing. "Ah, right." He goes along with Phillip's little slip of tongue as gratitude for changing the subject just earlier. "Some of these are pineβnative to our landβand others are imported. Our ancestors were very spiritual and philosophical people. The shapes and designs, the layout of the garden, and even the direction this stream flows was important to them."
"It's interesting, but I speak objectively." His hands are clasped neatly behind his back as he moves closer to bridge the gap between the brunet and himself. He's careful not to overstep the line into Phillip's personal spaceβthey've only just metβbut stands close enough so their meeting doesn't feel emotionally lacking from his side. "I correct myself: it's something you might find interesting." He gestures to the state of Phillip's hands, "Does His Highness enjoy the arts?"
Kousuke kneels on the damp ground, staining the knee-bend of his trousers just to dip his fingers in the cool water like Phillip had done so a few moments earlier. "May I?" He asks, and takes one of the Prince's hands in both of his, using his thumbs to rub out the sleets of colour. "My younger sister, Chikako, will flock to you if you're not careful," he teases. "She has no one who indulges in the same hobbies as her. And while I do not discourage artistic expression, she tends to take it a level further." He chuckles lightly, reminiscing the one time the castle servants had found her absolutely lathed in mud after a particularly heavy cloudburst.
JaCrispy
Elder Member
Philip gazed at the trees and tried to imprint their shapes in his mind. He loved painting his own national plant, the flaming red ivy, but it would be a nice change if he were to sit out in the gardens and paint in this wondrously new environment.
The young man decided not to restrain his emotions and let a small smile grace his lips as the prince stood closer to him. This, however, also meant that the look of surprise was clear on Philips face when the kneeling prince took his hand in his own after Philip had given him a nod in confirmation that it was indeed okay to do so. He had to take a deep breath before replying. "Yes, the arts are a great passion of mines. They were my one true escape from the suffocation of castle life." His voice was soft and he reminisced, watching as Prince Kousuke's hands washed his own.
"The princess seems like a lovely girl, I am sure she shall keep me entertained whilst you're off doing your kingly duties." A small smirk appeared on his face and his tone became playful. "Unless, your highness is jealous that his sister may steal all my attention." At this he decided to raise his eyes slightly and look at the other Prince.
The young man decided not to restrain his emotions and let a small smile grace his lips as the prince stood closer to him. This, however, also meant that the look of surprise was clear on Philips face when the kneeling prince took his hand in his own after Philip had given him a nod in confirmation that it was indeed okay to do so. He had to take a deep breath before replying. "Yes, the arts are a great passion of mines. They were my one true escape from the suffocation of castle life." His voice was soft and he reminisced, watching as Prince Kousuke's hands washed his own.
"The princess seems like a lovely girl, I am sure she shall keep me entertained whilst you're off doing your kingly duties." A small smirk appeared on his face and his tone became playful. "Unless, your highness is jealous that his sister may steal all my attention." At this he decided to raise his eyes slightly and look at the other Prince.
