something stupid || dnf royalty AU ||

part one || chapter one

The events that are about to take place all began one seemingly average day in the castle. Nick had just been released from his studies for the opportunity to train alongside Clay. He ran to the training area and quickly made his way to Clay who was standing over an opponent clearly victorious.

"Ah-" Clay began upon seeing his brother "I'm surprised you've been permitted to be released from your princely studies so soon your Royal Highness." Clay offered his hand to his downed opponent and helped them up. "Better luck next time Punz" Dream called to the man as he walked off giving him the bird. Clay laughed and turned to his brother giving him his full attention

"Don't call me that! It sounds ridiculous when you stay it" Nick laughed grabbing a sword from the weapons rack

"It's only your title. Although I'll admit it is rather formal" Clay admitted

"Anyway, I finished early so I could train with you!"

"Well I'm honored to be graced by your presence your Highness." Clay exaggerated with a graceful bow "But with all due respect, I'm going to kick your ass" as soon as Clay finished his childish attempts at humor, he lunged at his brother with his full might swinging his sword giving Nick little time to block his slash. "Ah it looks like the Prince is still asleep in the study? Isn't he Sapnap?" Dream asked cockily calling his brother by his favored nickname

"That was just a cheep trick." Nick responded "It won't happen again."

"hm perhaps not. But I can still beat you." He said raising his sword again, this time having the mercy to give his little brother the chance to prepare himself, as he knows Sapnap is not as well versed as he is with the sword. They fought and practiced for what seemed like forever. Laughing and gaining skill as they did. Most of the rounds they practiced Clay came out victorious, but twice Sapnap came out on top. Eventually though, it was time for Nick to return to his Princely duties.

"Well as much as I'd love to continue to kick your butt, you've got other stuff to do." Dream said standing in a more lax position.

"Come on Dream just one more round please." Sapnap begged

"You said that last round. Listen I know you want to stay but you've got responsibilities to take care of. As father always says-" he began mocking their father in a deep authoritative voice "the kingdom will one day be yours to rule and it's my responsibility to make sure you're not an idiot king the people behead"

Nick scoffed and frowned slightly "Father has never said that"

"Really? I could have sworn I head him say that this morning" he pretended to think about it "maybe he said moron"

"You're the moron." Sapnap tried but Clay was already turning away, headed to the rest of the people training.

"I'll see you at dinner." He dismissed.

"Yeah." Sapnap hung his head a bit and made his way back to the castle past some guards.

"I wish Dream would let me win against him." One said to the other. Nick stopped in his tracks

"Excuse me? Clay doesn't 'let me' do anything. I beat him."

The guard stiffened at his post. "Erm- w-with all due respect your Highness, Dream hasn't lost to anyone in several months. He lets you win. He's so skilled, the King plans to make him the leader of the guards. His right hand."

Sapnap was taken aback. He hadn't heard of this before. He stood in shocked silence before barking out a response. "Back to your post. I need to see my father." He stormed off deeper into the castle.

The castles bright off-white roman inspired interior was nothing but a blur as Nick walked briskly. Not headed to his next royal duty, but to the throne room where his father would be. He burst through the two large and heavy decorative doors "Father!" He yelled "A word please."