Stirring the Flames

Prologue

Author's note: Wythras is a fictional country. Tenma is the adopted son of the king, making him the prince. 

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The grand white palace in the heart of the capital was a beacon of the future and hope for the people of Wythras. But for the younger prince, it is home, has been for nearly a decade.

A soft sigh left Tenma's lips as he passed the gardens. Servants were bustling around while preparing the place for his older brother's homecoming and celebration for his soccer team's win in the Europe League.

He wished to be as good as him one day. And to do that, he has to go back to Japan and attend Raimon Jr. High. But his mother is reluctant to let him return to Japan and play soccer there.

"There are good schools in Wythras where you can play soccer. Why do you want to go back to Japan?" She would ask whenever he brought this up. And Tenma would launch into another rant on how he needs to go to Raimon for the symbol drawn on the ball that saved him and Sasuke all those years ago.

His step-father was more amendable to the idea though, despite how unconventional it is for the royal family of Wythras to send a child so far for school. But Raimon has had a solid reputation for 10 years thanks to its soccer team. And his brother, Abel is supportive of his dreams. When he was not away for soccer tournament, he would be teaching Tenma the basics and convincing his mother to send him to Japan.

"Arion!"

Tenma squealed as someone hoisted him up from behind and swung him around. "Put me down Abel! Or I'm going to hurl all over you!"

His older brother chuckled and complied. Spinning around, Tenma gave his brother a proper hug. "Congrats on your win in the Europe League."

"Aw, thanks little brother." Abel, Tenma's handsome brother, grinned and took a step back to examine him. He had sun bleached brown hair, tan skin and mirthful green eyes. His physique was incredibly tall and athletic given his career in the soccer world. "I see you've grown taller. Anything happening since I've been gone?"

Tenma's face became a little downcast. "Mama still won't let me go to Japan to study. And Raimon's intake for this year is nearly closing."

"Sorry to hear that." Abel patted Tenma's shoulder comfortingly. "What about Father, what did he say?"

"He's been busy with the parliament. But he told me not to be discouraged. That things will work out somehow."

"I see." Abel sighed. "It's about the insurgents, right?"

"Yes. Father is getting worried about it."

Abel pinched the bridge of his nose. He shook his head and offered his younger brother a smile. "No use for us to worry about it now. I want this party over with so that I can show you my new moves."

That visibly perked Tenma up. "Yes! I want to see Wave Breaker! You used it at the last minute during your match with Italy's team! It was so cool!"

"Aw shucks. I just got desperate, that's all. I didn't exactly plan or practiced it." Abel rubbed his nose sheepishly.

"That only makes it cooler!" By now, Tenma was jumping in excitement.

"I know. By the way, been practicing hard?"

"My dribbling's getting better. But my shoots need more work." Tenma rubbed the back of his head.

"That's fine. As long as you're having fun. I'll see if I can help you convince your mother to send you to Japan while I'm back."