Wings (ON HOLD)

Chapter 4 - KEITH

The next morning, Keith found himself half asleep, leaning against the walls of the stables. It wasn't as though he had meant to be so sleep deprived - in fact he'd tried for the opposite- but unfortunately, he had to wait until nightfall before sneaking into the village and meeting with the rebels to retrieve the letter for his first mission. And unfortunately, Kolivan had told him he would need to wear a mask of some description to hide his identity. So by the time the poor prince had finally crawled into bed, the birds were already beginning to chirp away outside his window.

"-eith? Keith!"

Blearily, he opened his eyes. Shiro was leaning against the wall before him, a knowing smirk stretching his lips to the side.

"Ah, good. You're awake. I was worried I might have to smooch you, Sleeping Beauty," he teased, placing a soft hand upon the prince's shoulder. "We're setting off in a few minutes. Care to join me for a short run?Just to wake yourself up a bit."

Keith nodded, standing properly. After a brief stretch, the two set off for a lap around the castle, Shiro chatting away in a voice far too chipper for the early hour. The prince was more than happy to listen, glad to catch up on Shiro's news from the last few months.

For years, Keith and Shiro had been very close. Morning runs like this were a common occurrence between them, as were their sparring sessions. Shiro had been like a mentor of sorts to Keith, supporting him through his darkest times and always being there to liven his day. As time passed, he even considered him a brother.

But lately, Shiro had been busy as the Head of the Royal Guard. Keith was proud of him, but it felt bittersweet. Though he still saw Shiro around all the time, they never had much time to spare for one another anymore. He had missed their little runs and spars; he'd missed Shiro.

"-eith?"

Keith snapped from his thoughts suddenly. "Huh?"

Shiro huffed a small chuckle. "What's with you today? You keep zoning out."

"Dunno," he shrugged. "Just... got a lot on my mind, I guess."

Sighing, the Knight slowed to a stop, reaching out to halt the younger boy. "Keith," he stated, his 'brotherly Yoda' tone activated. "Look at me."

Obediently, Keith turned on the spot. As he drew in a breath, he met Shiro's kind yet stern eyes.

"Keith, buddy... I know you're scared. Hell, I'm a little nervous too. What you're doing is so brave. It takes a lot of guts to take action like this," his gaze was intense, his voice calming.

He knows, Keith realised. Holy quiznak he knows about the mission...

"A couple years ago, I never would have thought the Emo Prince would take responsibility like this. But now here you are. You've grown and matured so much."

"Shiro, I-"

"Arranging to travel across Marmora to bond with nobles and get to know your people? You've become such a promising leader."

Oh, he thought. Of course. He meant visiting the other cities.

Suddenly, the Knight pulled him into a bone-crushing hug. "I'm so proud of you, Keith."

A vicious pang stabbed Keith through the heart.

"Thanks, Shiro. I... I'm proud of you too," he whispered, throat tight. The prince's eyes began to sting, but he bit back his emotion as Shiro chuckled softly and stepped away. When they began to move again, he plastered a small grin on his face.

Shiro beamed down at him. "Let's get going, shall we?

Keith had never really travelled much before. It was tradition for the Marmoran Monarchs to make short trips by horseback, but for a longer trip such as this, they were to use the the Pods.