Fanfic Idea Drabble No. 1
Drabble No. 1
Fandom: Axis Powers Hetalia
Genre: Romance, Drama (?)
Rating: T
Pairings: America/Japan, FrUK, some Greece/Japan
Brainstorm: I've had this thought in my mind for a while. It's another AU for Hetalia because...well it's fun to write AUs basically. Mm, this is something along the lines of having a society with a hierarchy, probably some time based like the 1940's, but still having a kingdom and royal family. I'm not sure how I want this story to play out, but I've had a few scenes on my mind for a while, though most notably is the scene I'm going to try to write out right now. I don't know if I'll ever write this fanfiction since I usually take forever finishing them, so this brainstorm will have to suffice.
Notes: This time France and England will be the parents of America and Canada (yay FACE family ~) and China is the eldest brother of Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, who are all part of the royal family. China is forced to marry Vietnam, who comes to live in the palace, bringing along her siblings Thailand and Philippines. (Ha ha another OC). China has gone missing after going to a war, leaving Vietnam at the throne, who became a tyrannical queen once China wasn't found after the battle. Japan is next in line for the throne, and she knows he's going to get it eventually, so she wants to marry him off to an allied kingdom, which happens to be the kingdom Greece lives in. He's the prince of that kingdom, although I'm still debating if Turkey should be the king of that kingdom, like Greece's uncle or something, or if Turkey should belong to a different kingdom. Vietnam wants to do this because she knows that any girl (and in this case, guy) would fall for Greece, so she wants him to marry Japan, who she realizes is starting to have feelings towards the carpenter/handyman...er...guess handyguy since he's only 19, who will be America, except he and his family are commoners trying to make a living in a failing economy. America starts to really like Japan too, though they're both oblivious to this fact, but not Vietnam, and she really wants to prevent them ever being more than friends for a certain reason only she seems to know...and two other characters. Mm, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia are servants in the palace too btw.
This scene isn't the beginning by the way, or even the end. It's somewhere in the middle I believe... Er, like I said, this is a drabble, so I'm not sure where this goes, but it's still an important plot point.
-----
He felt confident about his decision. Cutting the beautiful and vivid flowers from his mother's garden (though Arthur would scold him for that later and for still calling him "mom" when he knew full well Arthur wanted him to call him "dad") and checking the stems to make sure none of them had any thorns, the young blonde man tied up the newly assembled bouquet with a maroon ribbon. He had carved a small wooden rabbit which took him about three months to make because he wanted the anatomy to be perfect. Not to mention painting it took a few trial runs before he was satisfied with the end result. He put the small gift in a plain brown box and tied that up with a transparent pink ribbon.
Alfred was a bit nervous. After all, confessing your love to somebody, especially when that somebody is way out of your league, is not an easy thing to do. The only person who knew of his feelings towards Prince Kiku was Toris. He hadn't even told Matthew, his own twin brother, about his feelings, though unknown to him, Matthew already caught on so it didn't matter if Alfred told him or not.
"Alfred, where are you going?" asked Arthur when he saw his eldest son begin to walk out the door.
"Oh, I'm gonna go out for a bit."
"Well, alright, but make sure to be back home for supper."
"Who's cooking tonight?"
Arthur paused. "Your father. Why?"
"Oh thank God! I thought you were going to cook again!"
"ALFRED!"
The cheerful young man laughed. "I'll be back in time for dinner then. Later mom!"
Arthur sighed. "Be careful Alfred. And how many times must I tell you to not call me mom?!"
He was ignored as Alfred shut the front door of their small house and walked enthusiastically to the palace grounds.
---
Toris was sweeping the walkway like he did every late afternoon. He wanted to get out of the house because the queen had been more demanding lately. He had really nobody to talk to because Eduard always had to be at Yong Soo's beck and call, while Raivis attended to Mei whenever she wanted to try out a new outfit.
"Well, at least Prince Kiku is enjoying himself," Toris sighed. "He seems to really like Prince Heracles' company. I wonder how Alfred is doing? Haven't seen him since the early morning. Must be busy fixing the townspeople's houses and things like that..." Alfred was really the only person from the outside (and in general) who conversed with Toris, unless the latter had to go grocery shopping at the market.
He heard footsteps behind him and turned around, a smile forming on his lips. "Alfred!"
"Oh, hey Toris!"
"I was wondering where you were all day long."
"I was...er...busy doing some stuff."
"Ah, I see." He noticed Alfred looked a bit bashful as he stared at the ground, a blush creeping up his face. "If you don't mind me asking, what are you holding behind your back?"
"Uhm...nothing. Just...some flowers...and a gift..."
"Oh?"
"Y-Yeah...uhm..." He looked at Toris and walked closer to him. He then said in a hushed tone, "I've decided...to confess..."
Toris dropped the broom. "Alfred! Are you serious?!"
"Well Toris, I can't take it anymore! I just...I just have to tell him! And to be honest with ya, I have a feeling that...there's a possibility he might like me back."
"Alfred--"
"I know I know, he's royalty and I'm just a commoner, but that doesn't matter to me. And to be frank, I don't think that should ever matter when people are in love."
Toris looked at him worriedly for a moment, but then smiled. "Well, if that's how you truly feel, then I have no right to stop you if you're so passionate about this."
"Yeah, I am. But uh...Tor...would you mind...at least walking me there...? 'Cause I'm still kinda nervous..."
Toris chuckled. "Sure thing Alfred. I need to give them snacks anyway."
"Them?"
"Oh, well Prince Heracles came for another visit."
"Really? He likes to visit a lot huh?"
"Yes. He's speaking with Prince Kiku right now."
"Those two are like best buds! Kind of like Kiku and I huh? Heracles is a great guy from what I've heard about him. Plus he's friendly too! I bet whichever princess he marries is gonna be really happy!"
Toris smiled at him, but worry clouded his thoughts. I just hope you're right Alfred about him wanting a princess, because if he's here to do what I think he's going to do...I think it would be best if you didn't see either of them...
"Toris?"
"Hmm?"
"You okay buddy? You looked lost in thought for a moment there."
"Oh, I'm sorry! I was just thinking about nonsensical things. I better get them their snacks. Dinner won't be served for two more hours."
"I'll come with you!"
"Alright."
---
"Do you guys only drink tea in this place?" asked Alfred as he accompanied the tray-carrying Toris to the palace garden in the rear of the establishment.
"The queen loves her tea and so did the king when he was here. Prince Kiku loves it as well."
"I'm glad somebody likes it. Mom used to serve us tea all the time when we ran out of milk or juice when Matt and I were younger. He didn't seem to mind it much, but I hated it."
Toris laughed. "Tea is good for you though."
"But it has no flavor! Mom has no taste when it comes to anything related to food, so I'm always glad dad cooks for us most of the time..."
The shorter of the two shook his head. He saw Heracles talking with Kiku near the pond. It seemed like a very serious talk from where Toris was standing, since the latter of the two was listening intently. The servant was getting an uneasy feeling as they began to walk out of the palace, closer to the two heirs. He glanced at Alfred from the corner of his eye, the blonde looking happily but nervously at the flowers and gift in his hand.
He looked so plain when compared to Heracles: the prince clothed in regal garments of white, purple, and gold, while the blonde had a white dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up and a bit unbuttoned, looking very casual with the straps of his trousers and boots complementing his appearence rather nicely. His glasses gave him an innocent look, which only made Toris feel even worse if what he thought was about to happen came true.
Heracles looked at Kiku, who by this point had a curious expression on his face. "Heracles-san, what's the matter? You seemed to be lost in thought for most of the day."
"I have I guess..."
"Oh?"
"Yes. I keep pondering over a decision I want to make."
"Uhm, well if you don't mind telling me what kind of decision you want to make, maybe I can help you. Is it a political decision?"
"In a way...I guess it is." He shrugged. "It's more of a decision to strengthen bonds."
"Ah, I see! Then this has to do with a neighboring kingdom, yes?"
"You got it."
"Well, is there any reason to not want to strengthen bonds?"
"No, I guess not. In a way, it's sort of an arranged marriage."
Kiku paused. "Is the person...you are going to be engaged to...someone you like at least?"
"Yes, I like this person greatly. I just hope they feel the same way towards me."
"Oh..." Kiku got a little quiet. "Did your uncle...arrange it?"
"Well, he didn't even think of it until it was brought up between a meeting with the queen."
"I'm a bit confused Heracles-san..."
"I might as well say it I guess." He said nothing for a few moments but looked intensely at Kiku, who was starting to become a bit embarrassed from being stared at for so long.
"Uhm...Heracles-san...," began the smaller prince. "If you don't mind me asking, who is it that you are going to marry?"
Heracles took both of the smaller hands in his and said, "You."
Kiku's eyes widened a bit, a blush reddening on his pale features. "...what?"
"The queen wanted our two kingdoms to become closer, so she suggested a marriage from both royal families. I'm the eldest of mine, and you're the eldest of yours."
"I...I..."
"Kiku, I really do like you." He put a hand to his cheek and smiled. "I think that you're a fascinating person, not to mention that you're also very cute person."
The smaller heir was blushing furiously at this point. "H-Heracles...s-san..."
"I hate to be forced to do things, and I don't want you to feel forced to do anything either. So my uncle and the queen suggested I do this the right way, the way the commoners do this." From his pocket, he took out a small silver ring, and Kiku gawked at it, not sure what to say.
"Prince Kiku of the Blossom Kingdom, will you marry me?"
He wasn't sure what to say. Heracles sounded sincere with every word he spoke. It was true that he did in fact like Heracles, quite a bit actually, but then the image of another kept reappearing in his mind. That golden hair, the confident laugh, the friendly smile, the dorky personality. All of these were quite charming to Kiku and he didn't want to lose him. But if he married Heracles, he might have to move to his kingdom. The queen already said that if Kiku were to marry a prince and not a princess, by default he'd be the bride due to his feminine appearance to most who didn't know who he was, something he got used to over the years, even though it upset him at times. Because this was so, he'd have to move to his groom's kingdom, only allowed to take one servant with him, most likely Toris since that was the only person he considered to be his friend in the palace.
But what about Alfred-san? he thought. He had known Alfred as long as he can remember. When Yao was in power, and alive for that matter, he allowed Kiku and Alfred to hang out together. Kiku always enjoyed Alfred's company. He wasn't the brightest of people (at least that was the impression he gave off), but he was optimistic, cheerful, and friendly, a real blessing to Kiku's life, who was feeling quite lonely being kept in the palace for most of his years.
His heart was in conflict. Heracles was the right choice because he did like him, yes, and this would help both their kingdoms, but Alfred made him feel happy, made him feel like even when it rained for days, the sun would surely shine brightly in the end and give warmth to the land.
"Heracles-san..."
The taller one softly placed his finger on Kiku's lips, a gesture telling him to not fret about anything that was said or done. He placed his hand on Kiku's cheek again and brushed his thumb against his soft skin, the blush on the latter's face becoming a permanent feature of the moment. Slowly their lips met, and Kiku melted into the soft kiss, gradually wrapping his arms around Heracles' neck, the taller one slowly embracing his back.
Toris stopped when he witnessed the scene unfold before him and quickly walked back to Alfred who hadn't seen but was staring in amusement at the turtles eating the lettuce on the floor.
"A-Alfred, we really shouldn't bother them so let's just head on back."
"Eh? But what about the snacks?"
"I'm sure they're not hungry! They're probably talking about important things anyway!"
"Nonsense! We'll just say 'Excuse me' and while I confess to Kiku, you can talk to Heracles about random stuff like the weather!"
"B-But Alfred--!"
"Tor, what are you so fidgety about?" he asked as he walked down the cobblestone path to the pond. "We won't be long!" He turned in their direction. "We're just...going...to..." His sentence seemed to trail off into nothing. Toris looked guilty as he watched Alfred just stare in shock at the two kissing near the pond.
He felt his heart drop, shattering to a million glass shards. He couldn't move, he couldn't speak, he couldn't breathe. All he could do was stare in horror. He saw Heracles release Kiku and slip the ring on his finger, Kiku admiring it and happily gazing up at him, Heracles petting his head and linking their fingers together. The two started to wander off to another part of the garden, further away from Toris and his horror-struck friend.
After a minute, Alfred looked at his hands, one holding the small bouquet and the other holding the box with the wooden rabbit, both he made himself. He compared them to the silver band that was now around Kiku's finger, diamonds surely embedded on it as well. Then he turned around and walked back from the direction he came from. Toris panicked and left the tray at a stone bench and followed after him.
---
"Alfred!" he shouted as the blonde made his way down the palace steps and to the cement road leading to the gate. "Please, stop!"
He stopped, but didn't turn around. Toris caught up to him, a bit out of breath, and said, "I...I am so sorry...I..."
"...did you know?"
"Huh?"
"Did you know...this was going to happen...the proposal I mean?"
"N-No...I didn't, but I had a feeling this was a highly likely possibility why Prince Heracles came here today..."
Alfred said nothing.
"Alfred...I'm so...I'm so sorry..."
The blonde stood silent, and then tossed both gifts off to the side a bit violently. Toris gasped a little in surprise at the sudden action.
"Tell...Prince Kiku...that I'm...h...happy for him."
"Alfred..."
"Toris..."
"Yes?"
"I probably won't be back for a while."
"What do you mean?"
"I got a job at a relative's farm in the country...and I don't know how long I'll be there. I'm going because...I want to give mom and dad some more money. These are tough times, and we're trying to get whatever job we can. I might...not be back...to see Prince Kiku off when he's wed...so...just tell him...I'm happy for him...and..." He paused. "...it's been great knowing him."
He began to walk away, though this time at a normal pace. Toris grabbed his arm. "But what about your confession?!"
"It doesn't matter now."
"Don't give up so easily! Alfred, you were never one to give up easily!"
"Toris don't you get it?!" he practically shouted, startling the brunette. Alfred calmed down.
"I'm...I'm sorry Toris..."
"No...it's alright. I understand." He looked up at him. "But Alfred...you really should...try. You never know what might occur."
"It was a mistake from the start. I should have known this was going happen. What was I thinking? Prince Kiku is royalty and I'm...just...a commoner..."
"Don't think like that Alfred."
"Toris I don't have a chance. Prince Heracles can give him clothes, pets, land, anything Prince Kiku desires. He can...even give him happiness. I can't give him anything..."
"That's not true Alfred. You can give him your love!"
"Yeah well...it looks like that'll never be enough..."
He put his hands in his pockets and the guards opened the gates once he reached them. Toris chased after him. "But what about the flowers, and the gift?"
"Just plant the flowers somewhere, and burn the gift in the fireplace. It's made out of wood anyway."
"Alfred, you can't be seri--"
"Prince Kiku doesn't need those things. And neither do I. I'll see you around Toris." He walked down the steps and to the road leading to the town. Toris could only stare from afar. He walked back inside the courtyard, the guards closing the gates behind him. He saw the flowers, a bit damaged from being thrown so roughly to the ground. He put the wooden rabbit back inside the box since it had fallen out after hitting the cement. He carried both objects inside the palace and walked to his room. Filling a vase with water, he placed the flowers gently in them and set it on his dresser, hiding the box underneath some clothes in a drawer.
"I can't simply let these things get thrown away," he said to himself. "Alfred made them out of love for Prince Kiku...and it's a shame for them to just be forgotten."
He sat down on his bed and stared at the wall. "If only you knew how much Alfred loves you Prince Kiku...maybe then you could have been the first in your family to break the tradition..."
---
Arthur was getting impatient. Francis noticed. "What's wrong?"
"Alfred said he'd be home for dinner and the food has already been served! Where the bloody hell is that boy?!"
"Maybe he's working on something?" suggested Matthew. "He gets a lot of customers since he knows how to fix and build a lot of things."
"Yes I know that, but doesn't he realize that his family worries about him when he doesn't even call?"
Francis walked over to his spouse, placing his hands on his shoulders. Arthur sighed heavily as he looked out the window, his arms crossed. A worried expression formed on his face.
"Don't fret my love," Francis said to the shorter male. "He'll be home."
"You better be right frog..." he said halfheartedly, which earned him an embrace around his waist, Francis settling his head on his shoulder.
"I love Alfred just as much as you do, but you really shouldn't worry about him."
"Somebody has to..."
"He's fine. He knows how to take care of himself." He kissed his cheek, which reassured Arthur a bit.
"I suppose you're right..."
They heard the door open and Matthew got up. "Oh Alfred! There you are!"
"My God where have you been?!" Arthur began. "It's at least an hour after dinner! Next time you better call us! And some of the flowers in my garden have been cut! I think I know who it was that did this, and you're going to replace them tomorrow as punishment!"
"Okay."
Arthur wasn't expecting that kind of response and immediately calmed down. When Alfred walked up the stairs and closed his bedroom door gently, Arthur became concerned. "Alfred?"
"What's wrong?" asked Francis.
"I don't know..."
Matthew was the most worried of all three, though he asked his parents to not bug Alfred at the moment. Maybe he just needed some time alone.
---
Their front door was being knocked upon, and Matthew answered it to find Toris standing there with a loaf of some kind of bread in his arms. "Hello. You're...Matthew, right? Alfred's twin?"
"Yes." He looked at him. "Oh, I know who you are. You're Toris, a servant from the palace. Al's told me about you."
"Good things I hope?"
Matthew smiled and gave a slight chuckle. "Yes. Oh, sorry, why don't you come on in?"
"Thank you." He heard Matthew shut the door behind him. "This is a lovely home you have here."
"Thanks."
"Matthew, who is this?" asked Arthur. Francis walked up next to him.
"Oh! Hello. I'm Toris. I assume you're Alfred's parents?"
"Yes, we are."
"Is he home?"
"He arrived a little while ago," Francis told him. "He hasn't come out of his room though since he got here."
Toris looked a little sad. "Oh...I see...ah!" He presented the loaf. "I made some pumpkin bread for you. I don't like going to places without a gift when I don't give notice to my visit."
"Ah! Thank you!" Francis said happily as he took the loaf. "It smells delicious Toris!"
"Thank you," he replied a bit bashfully. Then he became more serious. "There's...a reason I came here. I'm concerned about Alfred."
"What do you mean?" asked Matthew.
Toris proceeded to tell them the events that had taken place earlier in the day as they sat on the couch in the small living room drinking tea Arthur had served them. He could tell Matthew was feeling deeply sympathetic towards his older twin, his parents looking quite worried.
"Why didn't he tell us...?" Arthur questioned. "And here...we thought he visited the palace so much because they needed things repaired. We didn't know he went because of Prince Kiku..."
"Alfred really loves him. So when he witnessed the scene between him and Prince Heracles...I can only imagine what that did to his heart..."
Francis sighed and looked up the staircase. "I wonder what he's doing up there..."
"We better go check on him."
The four walked up to his room. Arthur knocked gently. "Alfred? It's me." Nothing. "Are you alright...?" Letting his maternal side take over him, he opened the door and found the room to be dark. Alfred was sleeping on his back on his bed, his glasses still on.
Arthur walked inside first and looked at him. He didn't have the heart to wake him up, so all he did was gently remove the glasses from his face and set them down on the nightstand. It was a bit warm, so he didn't bother to pull the sheets over him. All he did was kiss his forehead and run his fingers gently through his son's hair, giving a soft sigh.
"Alfred..."
Francis put a hand on his shoulder. "We'll talk to him in the morning. He's had a long day it seems."
"Yes..."
Toris could only watch sadly at Alfred's sleeping form, Matthew gazing at him the same way. They wondered what he was dreaming about.
"Uhm, excuse me," Toris began to Arthur and Francis. "I must leave now, but if you wouldn't mind, would you keep me updated on Alfred's...condition? He's a close friend of mine and I'm really worried about him. I can't keep leaving the palace to come and visit so--"
Francis smiled. "We understand. And we'll keep you posted. Thank you for telling us Toris."
"You're welcome, and thank you so much. Oh, for the tea too."
"Do you need a ride home?" asked Matthew.
"No, I'll manage. Thanks anyway. Well, goodnight."
"Goodnight."
And Toris left the Bonnefoy residence.
Matthew's worried expression was noticed by his parents, and Arthur said, "Why don't you get some rest? We'll talk with Alfred when he wakes up tomorrow."
"Okay...goodnight."
"Goodnight."
He proceeded to his own room while Francis and Arthur lingered at the open doorway for a few minutes. They looked at each other, concern clearly evident on their faces. Francis escorted Arthur out of the doorway, wrapping an arm around his waist, his free hand closing the door softly behind them.
Alfred stirred a bit and turned his head to the side, sleep still consuming him. He wasn't having a very good dream, and it was lucky that his parents didn't notice the dry streaks stained on his face. A single tear rolled down his cheek as he slept.
Kiku...
-----
A/N: Finally finished that long drabble. I'm glad I revised this because there were in fact a few spelling errors. Whoops. Ah yeah, I think I made Alfred and Toris a bit out of character. *punches self* Mm, oh well. First time for everything. Like I said, I don't know if this story is going to ever get written, so don't count on seeing it anytime soon.
Fandom: Axis Powers Hetalia
Genre: Romance, Drama (?)
Rating: T
Pairings: America/Japan, FrUK, some Greece/Japan
Brainstorm: I've had this thought in my mind for a while. It's another AU for Hetalia because...well it's fun to write AUs basically. Mm, this is something along the lines of having a society with a hierarchy, probably some time based like the 1940's, but still having a kingdom and royal family. I'm not sure how I want this story to play out, but I've had a few scenes on my mind for a while, though most notably is the scene I'm going to try to write out right now. I don't know if I'll ever write this fanfiction since I usually take forever finishing them, so this brainstorm will have to suffice.
Notes: This time France and England will be the parents of America and Canada (yay FACE family ~) and China is the eldest brother of Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, who are all part of the royal family. China is forced to marry Vietnam, who comes to live in the palace, bringing along her siblings Thailand and Philippines. (Ha ha another OC). China has gone missing after going to a war, leaving Vietnam at the throne, who became a tyrannical queen once China wasn't found after the battle. Japan is next in line for the throne, and she knows he's going to get it eventually, so she wants to marry him off to an allied kingdom, which happens to be the kingdom Greece lives in. He's the prince of that kingdom, although I'm still debating if Turkey should be the king of that kingdom, like Greece's uncle or something, or if Turkey should belong to a different kingdom. Vietnam wants to do this because she knows that any girl (and in this case, guy) would fall for Greece, so she wants him to marry Japan, who she realizes is starting to have feelings towards the carpenter/handyman...er...guess handyguy since he's only 19, who will be America, except he and his family are commoners trying to make a living in a failing economy. America starts to really like Japan too, though they're both oblivious to this fact, but not Vietnam, and she really wants to prevent them ever being more than friends for a certain reason only she seems to know...and two other characters. Mm, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia are servants in the palace too btw.
This scene isn't the beginning by the way, or even the end. It's somewhere in the middle I believe... Er, like I said, this is a drabble, so I'm not sure where this goes, but it's still an important plot point.
-----
He felt confident about his decision. Cutting the beautiful and vivid flowers from his mother's garden (though Arthur would scold him for that later and for still calling him "mom" when he knew full well Arthur wanted him to call him "dad") and checking the stems to make sure none of them had any thorns, the young blonde man tied up the newly assembled bouquet with a maroon ribbon. He had carved a small wooden rabbit which took him about three months to make because he wanted the anatomy to be perfect. Not to mention painting it took a few trial runs before he was satisfied with the end result. He put the small gift in a plain brown box and tied that up with a transparent pink ribbon.
Alfred was a bit nervous. After all, confessing your love to somebody, especially when that somebody is way out of your league, is not an easy thing to do. The only person who knew of his feelings towards Prince Kiku was Toris. He hadn't even told Matthew, his own twin brother, about his feelings, though unknown to him, Matthew already caught on so it didn't matter if Alfred told him or not.
"Alfred, where are you going?" asked Arthur when he saw his eldest son begin to walk out the door.
"Oh, I'm gonna go out for a bit."
"Well, alright, but make sure to be back home for supper."
"Who's cooking tonight?"
Arthur paused. "Your father. Why?"
"Oh thank God! I thought you were going to cook again!"
"ALFRED!"
The cheerful young man laughed. "I'll be back in time for dinner then. Later mom!"
Arthur sighed. "Be careful Alfred. And how many times must I tell you to not call me mom?!"
He was ignored as Alfred shut the front door of their small house and walked enthusiastically to the palace grounds.
---
Toris was sweeping the walkway like he did every late afternoon. He wanted to get out of the house because the queen had been more demanding lately. He had really nobody to talk to because Eduard always had to be at Yong Soo's beck and call, while Raivis attended to Mei whenever she wanted to try out a new outfit.
"Well, at least Prince Kiku is enjoying himself," Toris sighed. "He seems to really like Prince Heracles' company. I wonder how Alfred is doing? Haven't seen him since the early morning. Must be busy fixing the townspeople's houses and things like that..." Alfred was really the only person from the outside (and in general) who conversed with Toris, unless the latter had to go grocery shopping at the market.
He heard footsteps behind him and turned around, a smile forming on his lips. "Alfred!"
"Oh, hey Toris!"
"I was wondering where you were all day long."
"I was...er...busy doing some stuff."
"Ah, I see." He noticed Alfred looked a bit bashful as he stared at the ground, a blush creeping up his face. "If you don't mind me asking, what are you holding behind your back?"
"Uhm...nothing. Just...some flowers...and a gift..."
"Oh?"
"Y-Yeah...uhm..." He looked at Toris and walked closer to him. He then said in a hushed tone, "I've decided...to confess..."
Toris dropped the broom. "Alfred! Are you serious?!"
"Well Toris, I can't take it anymore! I just...I just have to tell him! And to be honest with ya, I have a feeling that...there's a possibility he might like me back."
"Alfred--"
"I know I know, he's royalty and I'm just a commoner, but that doesn't matter to me. And to be frank, I don't think that should ever matter when people are in love."
Toris looked at him worriedly for a moment, but then smiled. "Well, if that's how you truly feel, then I have no right to stop you if you're so passionate about this."
"Yeah, I am. But uh...Tor...would you mind...at least walking me there...? 'Cause I'm still kinda nervous..."
Toris chuckled. "Sure thing Alfred. I need to give them snacks anyway."
"Them?"
"Oh, well Prince Heracles came for another visit."
"Really? He likes to visit a lot huh?"
"Yes. He's speaking with Prince Kiku right now."
"Those two are like best buds! Kind of like Kiku and I huh? Heracles is a great guy from what I've heard about him. Plus he's friendly too! I bet whichever princess he marries is gonna be really happy!"
Toris smiled at him, but worry clouded his thoughts. I just hope you're right Alfred about him wanting a princess, because if he's here to do what I think he's going to do...I think it would be best if you didn't see either of them...
"Toris?"
"Hmm?"
"You okay buddy? You looked lost in thought for a moment there."
"Oh, I'm sorry! I was just thinking about nonsensical things. I better get them their snacks. Dinner won't be served for two more hours."
"I'll come with you!"
"Alright."
---
"Do you guys only drink tea in this place?" asked Alfred as he accompanied the tray-carrying Toris to the palace garden in the rear of the establishment.
"The queen loves her tea and so did the king when he was here. Prince Kiku loves it as well."
"I'm glad somebody likes it. Mom used to serve us tea all the time when we ran out of milk or juice when Matt and I were younger. He didn't seem to mind it much, but I hated it."
Toris laughed. "Tea is good for you though."
"But it has no flavor! Mom has no taste when it comes to anything related to food, so I'm always glad dad cooks for us most of the time..."
The shorter of the two shook his head. He saw Heracles talking with Kiku near the pond. It seemed like a very serious talk from where Toris was standing, since the latter of the two was listening intently. The servant was getting an uneasy feeling as they began to walk out of the palace, closer to the two heirs. He glanced at Alfred from the corner of his eye, the blonde looking happily but nervously at the flowers and gift in his hand.
He looked so plain when compared to Heracles: the prince clothed in regal garments of white, purple, and gold, while the blonde had a white dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up and a bit unbuttoned, looking very casual with the straps of his trousers and boots complementing his appearence rather nicely. His glasses gave him an innocent look, which only made Toris feel even worse if what he thought was about to happen came true.
Heracles looked at Kiku, who by this point had a curious expression on his face. "Heracles-san, what's the matter? You seemed to be lost in thought for most of the day."
"I have I guess..."
"Oh?"
"Yes. I keep pondering over a decision I want to make."
"Uhm, well if you don't mind telling me what kind of decision you want to make, maybe I can help you. Is it a political decision?"
"In a way...I guess it is." He shrugged. "It's more of a decision to strengthen bonds."
"Ah, I see! Then this has to do with a neighboring kingdom, yes?"
"You got it."
"Well, is there any reason to not want to strengthen bonds?"
"No, I guess not. In a way, it's sort of an arranged marriage."
Kiku paused. "Is the person...you are going to be engaged to...someone you like at least?"
"Yes, I like this person greatly. I just hope they feel the same way towards me."
"Oh..." Kiku got a little quiet. "Did your uncle...arrange it?"
"Well, he didn't even think of it until it was brought up between a meeting with the queen."
"I'm a bit confused Heracles-san..."
"I might as well say it I guess." He said nothing for a few moments but looked intensely at Kiku, who was starting to become a bit embarrassed from being stared at for so long.
"Uhm...Heracles-san...," began the smaller prince. "If you don't mind me asking, who is it that you are going to marry?"
Heracles took both of the smaller hands in his and said, "You."
Kiku's eyes widened a bit, a blush reddening on his pale features. "...what?"
"The queen wanted our two kingdoms to become closer, so she suggested a marriage from both royal families. I'm the eldest of mine, and you're the eldest of yours."
"I...I..."
"Kiku, I really do like you." He put a hand to his cheek and smiled. "I think that you're a fascinating person, not to mention that you're also very cute person."
The smaller heir was blushing furiously at this point. "H-Heracles...s-san..."
"I hate to be forced to do things, and I don't want you to feel forced to do anything either. So my uncle and the queen suggested I do this the right way, the way the commoners do this." From his pocket, he took out a small silver ring, and Kiku gawked at it, not sure what to say.
"Prince Kiku of the Blossom Kingdom, will you marry me?"
He wasn't sure what to say. Heracles sounded sincere with every word he spoke. It was true that he did in fact like Heracles, quite a bit actually, but then the image of another kept reappearing in his mind. That golden hair, the confident laugh, the friendly smile, the dorky personality. All of these were quite charming to Kiku and he didn't want to lose him. But if he married Heracles, he might have to move to his kingdom. The queen already said that if Kiku were to marry a prince and not a princess, by default he'd be the bride due to his feminine appearance to most who didn't know who he was, something he got used to over the years, even though it upset him at times. Because this was so, he'd have to move to his groom's kingdom, only allowed to take one servant with him, most likely Toris since that was the only person he considered to be his friend in the palace.
But what about Alfred-san? he thought. He had known Alfred as long as he can remember. When Yao was in power, and alive for that matter, he allowed Kiku and Alfred to hang out together. Kiku always enjoyed Alfred's company. He wasn't the brightest of people (at least that was the impression he gave off), but he was optimistic, cheerful, and friendly, a real blessing to Kiku's life, who was feeling quite lonely being kept in the palace for most of his years.
His heart was in conflict. Heracles was the right choice because he did like him, yes, and this would help both their kingdoms, but Alfred made him feel happy, made him feel like even when it rained for days, the sun would surely shine brightly in the end and give warmth to the land.
"Heracles-san..."
The taller one softly placed his finger on Kiku's lips, a gesture telling him to not fret about anything that was said or done. He placed his hand on Kiku's cheek again and brushed his thumb against his soft skin, the blush on the latter's face becoming a permanent feature of the moment. Slowly their lips met, and Kiku melted into the soft kiss, gradually wrapping his arms around Heracles' neck, the taller one slowly embracing his back.
Toris stopped when he witnessed the scene unfold before him and quickly walked back to Alfred who hadn't seen but was staring in amusement at the turtles eating the lettuce on the floor.
"A-Alfred, we really shouldn't bother them so let's just head on back."
"Eh? But what about the snacks?"
"I'm sure they're not hungry! They're probably talking about important things anyway!"
"Nonsense! We'll just say 'Excuse me' and while I confess to Kiku, you can talk to Heracles about random stuff like the weather!"
"B-But Alfred--!"
"Tor, what are you so fidgety about?" he asked as he walked down the cobblestone path to the pond. "We won't be long!" He turned in their direction. "We're just...going...to..." His sentence seemed to trail off into nothing. Toris looked guilty as he watched Alfred just stare in shock at the two kissing near the pond.
He felt his heart drop, shattering to a million glass shards. He couldn't move, he couldn't speak, he couldn't breathe. All he could do was stare in horror. He saw Heracles release Kiku and slip the ring on his finger, Kiku admiring it and happily gazing up at him, Heracles petting his head and linking their fingers together. The two started to wander off to another part of the garden, further away from Toris and his horror-struck friend.
After a minute, Alfred looked at his hands, one holding the small bouquet and the other holding the box with the wooden rabbit, both he made himself. He compared them to the silver band that was now around Kiku's finger, diamonds surely embedded on it as well. Then he turned around and walked back from the direction he came from. Toris panicked and left the tray at a stone bench and followed after him.
---
"Alfred!" he shouted as the blonde made his way down the palace steps and to the cement road leading to the gate. "Please, stop!"
He stopped, but didn't turn around. Toris caught up to him, a bit out of breath, and said, "I...I am so sorry...I..."
"...did you know?"
"Huh?"
"Did you know...this was going to happen...the proposal I mean?"
"N-No...I didn't, but I had a feeling this was a highly likely possibility why Prince Heracles came here today..."
Alfred said nothing.
"Alfred...I'm so...I'm so sorry..."
The blonde stood silent, and then tossed both gifts off to the side a bit violently. Toris gasped a little in surprise at the sudden action.
"Tell...Prince Kiku...that I'm...h...happy for him."
"Alfred..."
"Toris..."
"Yes?"
"I probably won't be back for a while."
"What do you mean?"
"I got a job at a relative's farm in the country...and I don't know how long I'll be there. I'm going because...I want to give mom and dad some more money. These are tough times, and we're trying to get whatever job we can. I might...not be back...to see Prince Kiku off when he's wed...so...just tell him...I'm happy for him...and..." He paused. "...it's been great knowing him."
He began to walk away, though this time at a normal pace. Toris grabbed his arm. "But what about your confession?!"
"It doesn't matter now."
"Don't give up so easily! Alfred, you were never one to give up easily!"
"Toris don't you get it?!" he practically shouted, startling the brunette. Alfred calmed down.
"I'm...I'm sorry Toris..."
"No...it's alright. I understand." He looked up at him. "But Alfred...you really should...try. You never know what might occur."
"It was a mistake from the start. I should have known this was going happen. What was I thinking? Prince Kiku is royalty and I'm...just...a commoner..."
"Don't think like that Alfred."
"Toris I don't have a chance. Prince Heracles can give him clothes, pets, land, anything Prince Kiku desires. He can...even give him happiness. I can't give him anything..."
"That's not true Alfred. You can give him your love!"
"Yeah well...it looks like that'll never be enough..."
He put his hands in his pockets and the guards opened the gates once he reached them. Toris chased after him. "But what about the flowers, and the gift?"
"Just plant the flowers somewhere, and burn the gift in the fireplace. It's made out of wood anyway."
"Alfred, you can't be seri--"
"Prince Kiku doesn't need those things. And neither do I. I'll see you around Toris." He walked down the steps and to the road leading to the town. Toris could only stare from afar. He walked back inside the courtyard, the guards closing the gates behind him. He saw the flowers, a bit damaged from being thrown so roughly to the ground. He put the wooden rabbit back inside the box since it had fallen out after hitting the cement. He carried both objects inside the palace and walked to his room. Filling a vase with water, he placed the flowers gently in them and set it on his dresser, hiding the box underneath some clothes in a drawer.
"I can't simply let these things get thrown away," he said to himself. "Alfred made them out of love for Prince Kiku...and it's a shame for them to just be forgotten."
He sat down on his bed and stared at the wall. "If only you knew how much Alfred loves you Prince Kiku...maybe then you could have been the first in your family to break the tradition..."
---
Arthur was getting impatient. Francis noticed. "What's wrong?"
"Alfred said he'd be home for dinner and the food has already been served! Where the bloody hell is that boy?!"
"Maybe he's working on something?" suggested Matthew. "He gets a lot of customers since he knows how to fix and build a lot of things."
"Yes I know that, but doesn't he realize that his family worries about him when he doesn't even call?"
Francis walked over to his spouse, placing his hands on his shoulders. Arthur sighed heavily as he looked out the window, his arms crossed. A worried expression formed on his face.
"Don't fret my love," Francis said to the shorter male. "He'll be home."
"You better be right frog..." he said halfheartedly, which earned him an embrace around his waist, Francis settling his head on his shoulder.
"I love Alfred just as much as you do, but you really shouldn't worry about him."
"Somebody has to..."
"He's fine. He knows how to take care of himself." He kissed his cheek, which reassured Arthur a bit.
"I suppose you're right..."
They heard the door open and Matthew got up. "Oh Alfred! There you are!"
"My God where have you been?!" Arthur began. "It's at least an hour after dinner! Next time you better call us! And some of the flowers in my garden have been cut! I think I know who it was that did this, and you're going to replace them tomorrow as punishment!"
"Okay."
Arthur wasn't expecting that kind of response and immediately calmed down. When Alfred walked up the stairs and closed his bedroom door gently, Arthur became concerned. "Alfred?"
"What's wrong?" asked Francis.
"I don't know..."
Matthew was the most worried of all three, though he asked his parents to not bug Alfred at the moment. Maybe he just needed some time alone.
---
Their front door was being knocked upon, and Matthew answered it to find Toris standing there with a loaf of some kind of bread in his arms. "Hello. You're...Matthew, right? Alfred's twin?"
"Yes." He looked at him. "Oh, I know who you are. You're Toris, a servant from the palace. Al's told me about you."
"Good things I hope?"
Matthew smiled and gave a slight chuckle. "Yes. Oh, sorry, why don't you come on in?"
"Thank you." He heard Matthew shut the door behind him. "This is a lovely home you have here."
"Thanks."
"Matthew, who is this?" asked Arthur. Francis walked up next to him.
"Oh! Hello. I'm Toris. I assume you're Alfred's parents?"
"Yes, we are."
"Is he home?"
"He arrived a little while ago," Francis told him. "He hasn't come out of his room though since he got here."
Toris looked a little sad. "Oh...I see...ah!" He presented the loaf. "I made some pumpkin bread for you. I don't like going to places without a gift when I don't give notice to my visit."
"Ah! Thank you!" Francis said happily as he took the loaf. "It smells delicious Toris!"
"Thank you," he replied a bit bashfully. Then he became more serious. "There's...a reason I came here. I'm concerned about Alfred."
"What do you mean?" asked Matthew.
Toris proceeded to tell them the events that had taken place earlier in the day as they sat on the couch in the small living room drinking tea Arthur had served them. He could tell Matthew was feeling deeply sympathetic towards his older twin, his parents looking quite worried.
"Why didn't he tell us...?" Arthur questioned. "And here...we thought he visited the palace so much because they needed things repaired. We didn't know he went because of Prince Kiku..."
"Alfred really loves him. So when he witnessed the scene between him and Prince Heracles...I can only imagine what that did to his heart..."
Francis sighed and looked up the staircase. "I wonder what he's doing up there..."
"We better go check on him."
The four walked up to his room. Arthur knocked gently. "Alfred? It's me." Nothing. "Are you alright...?" Letting his maternal side take over him, he opened the door and found the room to be dark. Alfred was sleeping on his back on his bed, his glasses still on.
Arthur walked inside first and looked at him. He didn't have the heart to wake him up, so all he did was gently remove the glasses from his face and set them down on the nightstand. It was a bit warm, so he didn't bother to pull the sheets over him. All he did was kiss his forehead and run his fingers gently through his son's hair, giving a soft sigh.
"Alfred..."
Francis put a hand on his shoulder. "We'll talk to him in the morning. He's had a long day it seems."
"Yes..."
Toris could only watch sadly at Alfred's sleeping form, Matthew gazing at him the same way. They wondered what he was dreaming about.
"Uhm, excuse me," Toris began to Arthur and Francis. "I must leave now, but if you wouldn't mind, would you keep me updated on Alfred's...condition? He's a close friend of mine and I'm really worried about him. I can't keep leaving the palace to come and visit so--"
Francis smiled. "We understand. And we'll keep you posted. Thank you for telling us Toris."
"You're welcome, and thank you so much. Oh, for the tea too."
"Do you need a ride home?" asked Matthew.
"No, I'll manage. Thanks anyway. Well, goodnight."
"Goodnight."
And Toris left the Bonnefoy residence.
Matthew's worried expression was noticed by his parents, and Arthur said, "Why don't you get some rest? We'll talk with Alfred when he wakes up tomorrow."
"Okay...goodnight."
"Goodnight."
He proceeded to his own room while Francis and Arthur lingered at the open doorway for a few minutes. They looked at each other, concern clearly evident on their faces. Francis escorted Arthur out of the doorway, wrapping an arm around his waist, his free hand closing the door softly behind them.
Alfred stirred a bit and turned his head to the side, sleep still consuming him. He wasn't having a very good dream, and it was lucky that his parents didn't notice the dry streaks stained on his face. A single tear rolled down his cheek as he slept.
Kiku...
-----
A/N: Finally finished that long drabble. I'm glad I revised this because there were in fact a few spelling errors. Whoops. Ah yeah, I think I made Alfred and Toris a bit out of character. *punches self* Mm, oh well. First time for everything. Like I said, I don't know if this story is going to ever get written, so don't count on seeing it anytime soon.