Shangri La Pt. 1

116: A Sudden Arrival

Standing before the mirror wearing royal garments of the Betta Kingdom that he wasn't used to, Shoto could only sigh as this only reminded him of growing up in the West and all the times he had to be forced to wear clothes like this. 

The suffocating feeling of having to smile at all the guests, the pressure of people asking him about his personal life, the guilt where he would have to lie that his life was peaceful and fun. That kind of lifestyle was something he didn't enjoy, but when he thought of how he was doing all of this for the Princess–the woman who has made his life feel much easier and peaceful–he could only take in a deep breath. 

'Right, this is all for Momo, someone that's made me feel better, but... is that the only reason?' Shoto thought, as doubt was starting to grow on him.

"Your Majesty." a voice behind him spoke, making Shoto whirl his head around to the White Lotus' standing behind him–all in formal attire. 

"Are you ready?" 

Shoto could see the worry in their expressions as he could tell that even they were unsure of what could unfold this very night. 

'Even they seem nervous, so who knows how Momo is feeling. No, don't think so negatively, we have to stay calm before the storm comes.' he thought to himself. 

"Mn. I'm ready." 

And so, the White Lotus' took the lead to the door and opened just for the Young Prince to exit the room, but it wasn't just servants waiting on the other side of the door, as the Betta King was there as well.

"Well well~ it seems any clothing you wear suits you pretty well, Young Prince." Kuro hummed. 

Shoto didn't even want to answer to this King, but because he's always been reminded in his past that he must be obedient no matter who they are, that he must be courteous. 

Shoto held his tongue as he made a subtle–but noticeable bow–to the King and answered; "You are too kind for allowing me to wear the attire of your culture, Your Majesty." 

"But of course, I can't ignore the fact that the Young Prince of the West came all the way here not just to see me, I'm touched." 

'You shouldn't be.' Shoto thought as he bit his lower lip.

"Ah– I'm sure you'd love to see your dear Princess, yes?" 

"More than anything, Your Majesty." 

"Ha! 'More than anything' he says. Well it seems you'll have to wait just a bit longer, as she will soon be the center of attention for this evening's event. You must be patient just as a dog would be when waiting for it's food." 

'But I'm not a dog, I just don't like when things like this don't go to plan for me.' 

"If waiting is all I must do, then I'm a patient person." 

"As you should be. Now then, I can only presume all of you need to escort the Young Prince, hm?" Kuro questioned as he gave off a menacing look to the White Lotus'. 

"We will do what we can, Your Majesty." Zeri answered, only for the King to chuckle at such a response. 

"Hmph– Just as obedient as you all were towards the Koi Princess, you never change. Then I hope to see all of you in the main hall, as tonight will certainly not be something you'd want to miss." Kuro finished as he took off with all the servants following behind him. 

And as he watched the Betta King walk away from them, Shoto could only clench his hands tightly because of such a suffocating conversation of teasing and frustration.