We'll Never be Royals

✥︎ 2 ✥︎

Palace of Crows

Sawamura Daichi
Present Day

The birds chirped in the early morning, filling the quiet palace with music. The morning sun shined warmly through the drawn back curtains, bathing the room in a warm atmosphere.

Daichi groaned as he woke, the side of his face pressed against the fluffy pillows. The sun blinded him for a moment and he brought his hand up to cover his eyes. He inhaled deeply, waves of sleepiness still washing over him as he laid there. He was tempted to stay there, in the comfort of his bed.

He watched as the a couple of birds chirped from the open windowsill. They flapped their wings, hopping ever so slightly as they moved around. The way they sang calmed the man, filled him with great nostalgia.

"Why do you always keep the windows open, my dear?"

"For the birds of course. This castle is so boring without them."

The large doors to the bedroom groaned as they were opened, a burst of cool air filling the once warm room. Daichi shivered, hugging his pillow closer.

"Ah, you're finally awake!"

Daichi glanced over his shoulder to see his queen, Yui. She was dressed and freshly groomed. She smiled brightly at the man in bed before approaching the open windowsill. He watched with a sigh as she shooed the birds away, scowling.

"These birds," she stressed as she slammed the windows shut. She released a small huff as she brushed her hands off, "they leave filth all over the palace. It really is a dreadful sight, I'll never understand just why you insist on keeping these open.

"I enjoy them," Daichi rasped as he sat up. He winced at the ache in his neck, rubbing at the sore muscle. Yui scoffed, but smiled nonetheless in a playful manner.

"They're just silly birds, love. They belong outside." She walked over to their shared bed, sitting herself on the edge next to Daichi. Her smile softened as she placed a delicate, soft hand against his cheek. He smiled lazily back at her, his tired eyes still droopy. Yui lenses dived to place a peck against the corner of his lips. "Happy Birthday, Daichi."

He thanked her quietly, placing his hand over hers. She patted his cheek before standing. "Now get ready. It's a big day today and we need your presence." She left short after that, giving him another kiss before leaving.

With a long yawn, Daichi fell back in bed. With honesty, Daichi's birthday was probably one of his least favorite days. All the parties, the guests... Daichi sighed heavily, throwing an arm over his eyes. No, he didn't like this day.

Despite his wishes to stay in bed all day, Daichi found himself walking down the bland hallways. Maids and servants ran around with busy hands, readying the palace for tonight's celebration. Everyone of them would still pause their tasks, bowing respectfully to their king as he passed by. He nodded silently to them, his footsteps echoing against the stone walls.

"Your Majesty!"

Suddenly, there was another pair of quick footsteps approaching him. He peered over his shoulder to spot a mess of orange hair. Shouyou's grin was wide as he ran up to the King. The twelve year old stuttered to a stop once he reached Daichi before falling into step with him. "Good Morning, Shouyou... And I've told you, Daichi will do." Daichi said quietly, voice holding far less emotion than the short boy.