fe:if au

be my bad boy be my

"My gods, I never knew how much damage those cursed traps could do to one's leg. Poor boy, he probably won't be able to walk for at least a good week or two." the man clad in white remarked.

The man was tall and skinny, but still kept a regal air round him. His robes and light armor suggested that he was someone of high status, but a peaceful one at that. He wore thick crystal spectacles in front of eyes as cold as those of his daughter's.

Stepping back from the bedside, he examined his work. His prescription was that Nathaniel was to be bedridden for at least a few days, but would not regain full use of his leg for quite a while. Nathaniel did not like the sound of this, nor did he want to be here. He anxiously awaited for them to contact his father. His father, he thought. He must be terribly worried for his troublemaking son. This made Nathaniel feel sick. He pushed those thoughts to the back of his head and analyzed his current predicament. He heard voices outside the door. Nathaniel sighed. This was not his ideal way of spending a sunny day. The aching pains in his leg had numbed, but it was still painful to move it. While lost in thoughts, he barely heard the door open. Framed in it was Lou, holding a silver tray. On it sat a mouth-watering pie, piping hot. She set it down on the bedside table.

"How is your leg? I hope it's feeling better than it was before. My father is a miracle worker when it comes to medicines. He's quite the apothecary." she giggled.

It took Nathaniel a few moments to collect his thoughts. "It's..fine. I'm fine." he managed to say.

Picking up the tray, she presented it to him proudly. "Would you like some apple pie? I made it myself just for you, nothing helps you get on the road to recovery like desserts."

"Thanks-" he started. Suddenly, assorted voices called Lou's name from outside.

Startled, she turned around. She looked back at Nathaniel and smiled. "S-Sorry, I have to go! Those are my friends. Eat up, okay? When you're feeling well, come down and see me! I'll set you up with some crutches." She giggled again, and left.

Nathaniel's face felt hotter than a thousand suns. Why was he like this? Shaking these thoughts away, he wolfed down the pie. It would have been embarrassing to eat in front of Lou. It was delicious, he made a mental note to ask her to make more. He felt uncomfortable being in human quarters, and being in their care. It felt piteous and shameful. As an Ailuran, it should have been the other way around. Their race is naught but servants and soldiers to the humans. Was it right to feel this way for a human girl, especially one of such high class? Absolutely not. He sighed, longing for his father and longing for home.

On the other side of the realm, life was bustling. Hoshidians rising early for work, for chores, for breakfast. Fathers suited up for military life, Mothers prepared food and kissed the husbands goodbye, children got ready for school. Princess Miyako laid in bed, lethargic. She had no motivation nor desire to rise. Besides, what work or chores did she have to do? Her father, Emperor Katsu did all the work around the palace. Reluctantly, she arose. Miyako began the grueling process of getting dressed into her royal garbs and armor. Her favorite part was getting to pick which katana received the privilege of decorating her hip today. Living in a military based society had its perks. Fancy weapons was one of them. She slid the steel blade into its sheath and left, seeking Jackie.

Jackie was a giant compared to the tiny Princess. He came from a large family of canine shapeshifters, but he himself was only 1/2 therian on his father's side. He spent his days tending to his beloved Pegasus, Sparky. It was an odd name for a steed, but he refused to change it. He began his mornings early just as any ordinary citizen did. Jackie received a tap on the lower back (as Miyako was too short to even dream of reaching his shoulder), and turned around to greet his friend.

"Good morning, Miyako!" he chirped. "Are you excited for today?"

Today was special. Very special. A Nohrian squadron was making its way to town today in order to train, trade, and go about normal business. It was led by the Grand Paladin. His name was Winston, a deathly handsome, battle-hardened man. Looks were deceiving. Beneath the intimidating exterior, he was a teddy bear. Winston had a fondness for baking and sewing. He was as talented as he was perfect, despite his nose being a little off-center. This was because he tripped on his own legs too much. And because Miyako socked him in the nose once. Always by his side was the little rod knight by the name of Wesley. She was small and a bit frail, but cute all the same. When she was not clinging to Winston, she talked with Jackie. Around anybody else, she was quiet, reserved, and anxious, seeming as though she was holding something back.

   It was true, though. Both could barely wait to see their friends. It was a treat when they came to visit, as traveling from Nohr to Hoshido was no easy feat, and was easier said than done. As they grew older, their duties increased in difficulty and number. Soon enough, it would be time for Miyako's coronation. She was nearly 21, and Winston almost 22. She often pondered of marriage. Would she end up married to Winston? She most likely would. Most likely as a way of bringing the two Kingdoms together, but she wouldn't mind spending her life with him by her side. Before she could think about it more, she was jolted back to reality. One of her guards stood before her, waiting.

   "Lady Miyako, I apologize for interrupting you, but the visitors have arrived. They wish to see you." he bowed sharply.

   Miyako smiled. "Thank you, Naoto. I'll see to them right away."