[035] - I Set Fire to the Rain - NEWS (Tego/Pi)
Title: I Set Fire to the Rain
Groups: NEWS (mentions of Arashi, some Kanjani and KAT-TUN members)
Pairing/Genre: Tego/Pi, side Tego/Kame, implied Shige/Ryo; Fantasy/Fairytale AU
Rating/Warnings: NC-17; overuse of fairytale elements?
Word Count: 8000
Summary: "Tell this to the land, bluebird. Tell them of the boy who will be King. Tell them of his might and his kindness. Of his struggle. Tell them how he will defeat a warrior from a far off land in an unexpected battle. Tell them just one word, bluebird."
Notes: Written for nillahoney for je_otherworlds. Any location or creature names are purely my own creation (unless they're a completely obvious allusion to something else - then that was intended :D). This was a challenge to write (as I pretty obviously don't write NEWS!fic...XD;;), but in the end, a lot of fun! Special thanks to my beta, Anie, and my hand holder/personal cheerleader, Rio.
•••••
Once upon a time, across the Seas of Sinoshi, in the deepest recesses of Pinasha Forest lived a soothsayer. The creatures of Kyoumatsu spoke in hushed voices of the soothsayer. Some called her a witch, others still referred to her as nothing more than a seer, but all the subjects of the fairy kingdom respected her wisdom. Her predictions never failed, never faltered. From the weather to the birth of a child to the first leaves emerging to greet spring, the soothsayer had never once been incorrect.
It was for that reason that her prediction sent the troubled Kingdom into a tizzy one cold winter's day . Standing over her magical lotus, the soothsayer's gnarled hands wove through the pink and yellow smoke it emitted, carving images into the air.
"Twenty years hence," she rasped, eyes clouded with age. "A child will become a man. A man will become a King. And a King will unite the lands of Kyoumatsu under one name once and for all."
A bluebird in a nearby tree leaned closer to hear her prediction, scarcely making a sound. Her eyes, still unseeing, snapped to him as she carried on.
"Tell this to the land, bluebird. Tell them of the fairy boy who will be King. Tell them of his might and his kindness. Of his struggle. Tell them how he will defeat a warrior from a far off land in an unwinnable battle. Tell them just one word, bluebird."
The air stilled, as if every creature in the forest awaited the soothsayer's voice. She paused and the lotus erupted into gold and pink flames, higher and higher still. Unblinking, she stared at the bluebird as her hands wove through the cold fire. The forest plunged into darkness as she whispered one final word.
"Tegoshi."
---
"Tegoshi!" A strangled cry broke the quiet afternoon air. Tegoshi pushed his dappled mare further.
"Come on, old girl, you can do this," he encouraged. With a whinny, Mikka whipped her silvery mane and galloped harder.
The day had demanded a race; Tegoshi knew that the moment he awoke that bright spring morning. The air was crisp and cool and hinted at warmer days ahead. All around the castle, the lush green lawns sparkled in the sunlight, every square yard carefully tended by its own gnome. Some of the more adventurous gnomes had started planting their summer flowers - baby's breath, peonies, and the occasional hydrangea bush. The peach grove was in full bloom and would be bearing fruit for the nation's annual Peach Festival in no time. Not far from the castle gate stood the ancient, perfectly circular copse of cherry blossom trees. Some called it the most magical place in the world. Tegoshi had studied beneath those trees as a boy.
Now, as a man, he raced past them at top speed, Mikka's breath coming harder as her hooves beat the ground mercilessly. As they approached the stables, Tegoshi leaned down and held on tight. Mikka spun quickly into the stable door, dirt, grass and clumps of clay spraying up as the momentum carried them through. Laughing, Tegoshi hopped off Mikka and patted her long neck fondly.
"That's my girl," he said, offering her a carrot from his pocket. Mikka munched happily, turning her nose into his hand and nuzzling her companion.
Tegoshi moved away and began adjusting his hair. Racing was one of his favorite activities, but it wreaked havoc on his hair every time. Surely the counsel knew of a charm to prevent it. Tegoshi scowled as he recalled a meeting with the Five later that day. Something important they wanted to discuss, their page had said. That never boded well, in Tegoshi's opinion.
"You shouldn't push her so hard, Tego." A bright, cheery voice filtered through Tegoshi's thoughts. He turned and cocked and eyebrow at Masuda, the stable master.
"She can take it, Massu," he said, patting Mikka's flanks fondly. Masuda's smile tilted downward for half a moment before returning to its usual place. Tegoshi smiled back at his childhood friend, glad they'd found a place for Massu in the castle. It helped that he was so good with the horses, tending to their health and daily care.
"Alright," Massu replied, taking Mikka's reins in hand. "But don't come crying to me when she bucks you one day." Tegoshi waved them off, smiling, as Massu led away his prize mare. Mikka wouldn't throw him, they both knew that. She loved him too much, and he, her.
Tegoshi was smoothing down the last errant strand of hair when a second horse came thundering into the stables, its rider heaving and coughing as he slid off the black gelding. Tegoshi laughed, full and loud, as he watched his most trusted advisor, Shigeaki, stumble around, attempting to regain his footing now that he was back on solid ground.
"I believe that's 23 to nothing, Shige," Tegoshi said with a smirk, leaning casually against the doorframe of the stable. "This year, anyway."
Shige scowled at Tegoshi and righted himself, drawing up to his full height and looking down at his friend.
"Prince Tegoshi, this is hardly dignified for either of us. Why do you insist on playing these silly games?" he sneered. Shige raked a hand through his own mussed hair, coughing a few times as the dust settled.
Tegoshi just laughed again and pushed himself off the doorframe. "Come now, Shige, don't be sore! It's not my fault you chose the dumbest horse in the stable and ended up in the peach groves!"
Shige's scowl deepened. "You know, after your coronation this kind of thing will have to stop."
"The King of Fairies can't race and subsequently beat his top advisor?" Tegoshi asked, one perfect eyebrow arched in disbelief.
"You'll be too busy," Shige replied, still scowling. Tegoshi resisted the urge to tell him his face would get stuck that way, instead tossing his arm around Shige's shoulders and tugging him close.
"Oh, Shige, don't be such a stick-in-the-mud," Tegoshi teased. "You're too young to have all your fun sucked right out of you."
"I'm older than you are," Shige muttered. He sighed and wrenched his way from Tegoshi's grasp. "How about we cross that bridge when we get to it?" he suggested, forcing a smile. "Come on, you've got a meeting with the Counsel in a few minutes. Mustn't be late. You know how Matsumoto gets when you stroll in after the official start time."
Tegoshi laughed again, picturing Matsumoto's strong features contorting into that face of disapproval he wore so often.
"I might show up a few minutes late anyway," he said, eyes dancing. "I do enjoy when Matsumoto scolds me." With a bark of laughter, Tegoshi hurried up the hill to the castle, Shige trailing behind, a small, reluctant smile on his face.
---
"Prince Tegoshi, you're late again," Matsumoto thundered as Tegoshi strolled into the counsel room, Shige still trying to catch up.
The Counsel of Five had been created long before Tegoshi was born and would likely exist long after he'd passed into the next life. They served as his top advisors, each member in charge of a different aspect of their world. Matsumoto, the head of the Counsel, and also the youngest, was protector of earth - steady and powerful. To his left sat Sakurai, staid protector of the spirits of the land. The last on the left was Aiba, protector of air and wind, his smile consistently bright. Ninomiya and Ohno sat huddled to the right of Matsumoto, drawing on a piece of parchment and ignoring the proceedings as usual. In his years as Prince of Kyoumatsu, Tegoshi had never once heard Ohno's voice. Opposites in every way, Ninomiya, protector of fire and creation, was obnoxious and sly, while his counterpart, protector of water and sea, was quiet, with a sweet smile.
"Apologies, your honors," Tegoshi said, sweeping into a low bow. "Urgent business with my advisor, Kato." Turning slightly, Tegoshi tossed a wink in Shige's direction and carefully ignored the rolled eyes he received in return.
"Racing the Kingdom's finest horses is not what one might deem 'urgent business,' your highness," Sakurai interjected, leaning forward slightly. Tegoshi liked Sakurai generally, but significantly less so when his interjections led to Matsumoto's face getting even darker with rage.
"In my defense, Sir Sakurai, Kato's horse was hardly one of the best in the land." Shige squeaked in protest behind him.
Sighing, Sakurai leaned back and Tegoshi knew he'd won this battle.
Matsumoto leveled Tegoshi with an even stare and continued. "You have been called here today, Prince Tegoshi, for a matter of urgent business. Ohno?"
Silence.
"Ohno?"
Ninomiya giggled.
"Satoshi!"
Ohno looked up from his doodles and grinned at Matsumoto, cracking his icy exterior. Tegoshi knew Ohno was the most magical of the Counsel, but he hadn't seen it with his own eyes. Not like that. Ohno turned his sweet smile to Tegoshi, eyes crinkling and nose scrunching up.
"Oh, Tegoshi's here."
Matsumoto sighed. Tegoshi just smiled back and waited patiently for Ohno to continue. A moment passed before Ninomiya rolled his eyes and nudged Ohno in the ribs.
"Ow," he breathed, looking at Ninomiya with hurt eyes. Ninomiya just nodded in the direction of the Prince. "Oh, right right." Turning back to Tegoshi, Ohno started speaking, his voice melodic and even.
"Prince Tegoshi, on the night of your birth, nearly twenty years ago, the soothsayer deep in the Forests of Pinasha predicted your royalty." Tegoshi nodded. Everyone knew this part of the story - the bluebird had been sent to spread the news, to find the Prince and anoint him that day. Tegoshi had been raised in the palace, away from his birth parents, and in the lap of luxury for the last twenty years.
Ohno continued in that same even tone. "What is less well known is the second part of the sage's prediction - that you would have to fight for our lands, to unite Kyoumatsu under one flag."
"I knew that part, though," Tegoshi replied, vaguely bored. He'd heard this before. The lands of Kyoumatsu had been struck by civil war ages before he'd been born - nymphs to one corner, fairyfolk to the other. While they maintained relative peace, tensions between the divided factions had been growing.
"An unwinnable battle, your highness," Ohno continued, his eyes clouding over as he saw the images in his mind. "A black knight."
A hush swept through the room. That part was significantly less well known.
"He comes tomorrow."
---
Kamenashi's skin was positively delicious. The candlelight danced across his golden skin as Tegoshi stared, entranced by the show. He leaned in to taste it again, tongue lapping lightly at the juncture of Kame's neck and shoulder. Tegoshi wondered if he would ever tire of his favorite bed partner. The pixie Kamenashi had been his alone for several years.
The Counsel's news had shaken Tegoshi more than he was willing to admit. He'd practically flown out of the counsel room, Shige close on his heels. The fight was supposed to be legend, myth. Not something he would legitimately have to face. Tegoshi was scared of what the next day would bring; even his advisor was nervous. Tegoshi couldn't remember a time when he'd seen Shige quite so shaken, and that included his first time on a stallion.
Hours after the meeting with the Counsel, Tegoshi found himself in the company of Kamenashi once again. It was as if the pixie knew exactly when Tegoshi needed him and appeared, ready to service his lord however he could.
Tegoshi's hands brushed lightly over Kame's skin, revisiting every dip and ridge along his back. Kame's shoulders were well-made, broad and strong. Tegoshi traced the line of Kame's spine from his neck to his hips, enjoying the silky feel of pixie skin. No other creature in the land had skin like this - soft and smooth, the buttery lightness of new leather. Kame moaned into the pillow as Tegoshi explored his body for the thousandth time. Tegoshi enjoyed eliciting those little sounds from Kame almost as much as he enjoyed thrusting into him, deep and hard, watching Kame's head thrash about as Tegoshi brought him to his climax and then continued to pound into his over-sensitive body, Kame's legs shaking with exertion and pleasure.
But that night, Tegoshi had a desire for something different. Nudging at Kame's hip with one hand, he turned the pixie over and kissed him deeply. They were naked as they day they were born, erections bumping occasionally, a thin layer of sweat across both their foreheads. Tegoshi's lips were hard across Kame's, forcing them open and nipping at the full bottom one. Kame caught Tegoshi's lip with his own teeth and bit down hard in retaliation. That was why Tegoshi enjoyed fucking Kame - it was a never-ending battle of wills and dominance. Growling, Tegoshi rolled his hips downward, twining his tongue around Kame's at the same moment. Kame moaned and his own hips twitched up to meet Tegoshi, their erections brushing in almost painful pleasure.
Snaking one hand between them, Tegoshi grasped both cocks and lightly squeezed them together. Kame arched off the bed, trying to thrust up into Tegoshi's hand, but Tegoshi was prepared and leaned away. He would do this at his own pace. Kame cracked an eye and glared at him before grabbing Tegoshi's hips and tugging him down hard.
"If you're going to do it," he murmured, breath heavy and fast. "Do it properly."
"Oh, I do like when you're bossy, Kame," Tegoshi replied before sucking lightly at Kame's neck. His hand stilled and Kame whined quietly. Seconds later, Tegoshi gave in, pulling back just enough to watch Kame's face as he fisted them both quickly, the movement picking up pace as they both got closer to their climax, precome spreading with every pass of Tegoshi's palm.
Kame's expression when he came was one of Tegoshi's favorite sights. His body tensed as he came, then shook as Tegoshi continued to stroke his over-sensitive cock until finally, Tegoshi took pity and pulled his hand away, wiping it on the nearby cloth. Looking down at Kame's flushed cheeks and kiss-swollen lips, Tegoshi understood why pixies were considered the most beautiful of all the creatures in Kyoumatsu. Kame's eyes fluttered open and he smiled, a little shy and reserved. He patted Tegoshi's hips and jerked his head backward.
"Up," he whispered, tugging on the back of Tegoshi's legs.
It took a moment for the Prince to understand what Kame wanted, but as the pixie rearranged the pillows behind his head, Tegoshi understood. Sliding up Kame's body, Tegoshi settled his knees on either side of his chest, dick bobbing lightly against Kame's clavicle. Kame's tongue darted out to catch the tip, feather-light and teasing. Tegoshi moaned and arched slightly, thrusting his cock closer to Kame's mouth. He gasped as Kame took it in, a hot, wet suction just around the tip. Tegoshi arched further, his hands on Kame's thighs, dick trapped between those swollen lips. Kame slid his tongue along the slit and around again, sucking lightly as he went. Through his lust-filled haze, Tegoshi remembered, yet again, why he kept Kame around.
Tegoshi gasped, too loud in the quiet bedchamber, as Kame tugged his hips close, taking Tegoshi's cock deep in his mouth. Tegoshi's hips pulsed lightly, forcing himself between Kame's inviting lips and back out again. A few moments passed and Kame pulled back to stare up at Tegoshi. Confused, Tegoshi leaned over him, grasping the headboard and panting.
"What is it?" he breathed, still fully hard and slick with Kame's spit.
"Fuck my mouth," Kame replied. It was so honest, so frank, it took Tegoshi's breath away for a moment.
Kame's hands grasped Tegoshi's buttocks and pulled him close again, sucking him down until Tegoshi could feel the head of his cock bump the back of Kame's throat. He choked out a sob and pulled back, then thrust in slightly. Kame's fingers tightened on his ass and Tegoshi moved again, pushing in harder. A moan rippled up Kame's throat and through Tegoshi's body. He shuddered and picked up pace, thrusting and shaking as Kame took him deeper and deeper, again and again.
"God, Kame, I'm going to...."
Kame reached around to pull Tegoshi's dick from his mouth, jerking him quickly onto his face. Tegoshi cried out, throwing his head back as he came hard onto Kame's lips and chin. Finally spent, Tegoshi dropped his head forward again, still gripping the headboard tight, and caught sight of Kame licking his lips in satisfaction.
"You're terrible," Tegoshi whispered.
"And you love it," Kame replied with a wink.
Tegoshi resituated himself on the bed next to Kame and heaved a sigh. Looking at the pixie, Tegoshi smiled. "Maybe just a little," he admitted.
Kame just hummed in response before moving to clean them both up. The cloth was soft and warm against Tegoshi's skin, a welcome respite from their lovemaking.
"So are you going to tell me what's wrong?" Kame asked, smoothing the cloth across Tegoshi's stomach and chest. He shivered, then pouted a moment before sighing.
"A black knight is coming tomorrow to try to take the Kingdom from me."
Kame hummed again in understanding.
"Ohno called it an unwinnable battle," Tegoshi continued. "That...worries me."
"You're worried about something Ohno said?" Kame chuckled. "It's Ohno. He spends more time talking to the fish in the lake than actually trying to catch them. I wouldn't worry too much about it."
Tegoshi frowned and looked away. "But I am worried, Kame. Legitimately," he said quietly. "What if I lose? What if we lose? What will happen to our people?"
"Tego," Kame said, his voice full of affection. He placed one hand on Tegoshi's cheek, turning his head to face him. "You are a fantastic Prince and will make a great King, regardless of what the Counsel thinks or has to say." He shrugged. "If you have to fight, fight. If you lose, you lose. But you will go down knowing you have fought and lost for the greatest reason - your people."
Tegoshi stared at him for a moment, wondering how a pixie could be so wise. He propped himself up on one elbow and pulled Kame down for a kiss, soft and sweet.
"Thank you," he whispered, touching their foreheads together.
"Of course," Kame replied as he brushed his lips across Tegoshi's cheek. "Now sleep, your highness. Busy day tomorrow. You have a country to save."
Tegoshi leaned back against the pillows, tugging Kame down with him. He knew when he awoke, the pixie would be gone, only to return when he was needed again. That broke Tegoshi's heart just a little.
---
The air around the castle was still as an early morning lake. Nary a creature dare move, lest they break the spell. A hush had fallen over the grounds as rumor of the Black Knight and his detachment's imminent arrival and the foretold battle. The people were worried. How would their Prince handle the situation?
Tegoshi had awoken that morning predictably alone, but with a new resolve to end this skirmish without bloodshed. Kame at least had the decency to order him breakfast from the kitchens before sneaking out. Tegoshi held no illusions of what his relationship with Kamenashi entailed - they served a purpose for each other, plain and simple. Kame showed up when Tego needed him and disappeared just as quickly. It was a system that had worked rather well for several years. Tegoshi pushed lonely thoughts from his mind as he ate his breakfast and prepared for the day.
A meeting with Shige and the Counsel had confirmed Tegoshi's plan of attack - or rather, non-attack. Tegoshi intended to lose zero lives upon the Black Knight's arrival, but he was not ill prepared. Sentries were hidden along the castle walls and had been mixed into the house staff. Should trouble arise, they would be ready. The thought of blood being spilled on his castle grounds made Tegoshi sick to his stomach. He was supposed to protect the people, keep them healthy and happy. Holding his head high, he resolved to do just that, however he could.
Koyama, the castle chef, had prepared a delicious peach-themed meal for the evening. The Black Knight and his troupe would be invited to stay for the meal, then negotiations, then if that failed, they would be asked to leave. It was the most diplomatic decision Tegoshi could come up with.
He prayed it would work.
The mid-afternoon sun blazed over head when the first whispers of the Knight's approach reached the castle. Tegoshi and Shige stood atop the wall to watch the riders in a distance. Four of them, all on dark colored horses. From that far, Tegoshi couldn't tell, but it appeared they carried themselves like nymphs, save for the front most rider. He carried himself...oddly. Tegoshi cocked his head to the side as he watched them ride, trying to decipher the difference.
"Your highness," Shige said loudly, as if he'd already said it several times. "There are only four of them."
"I know, Shige. I can count," Tegoshi replied, scowling.
"I meant," Shige sighed heavily. "I meant there are only four of them. We have three dozen sentries between the edge of the peach groves and the castle gates. We could-"
"No," Tegoshi replied, cutting his advisor off. "We're not playing dirty. These men deserve our attention." Turning to face Shige, Tegoshi set his face firmly. "The sentries are just a backup plan. They are not to move without my word."
Shige stared him down for a moment before hanging his head slightly and nodding. "You're right, my lord," he agreed. "Let's get down to the hall before they arrive. If we're going to stand our ground, let's at least look good doing it."
The castle was somber as Tegoshi made his way to the hall to greet the visitors. His stomach turned nervously, but he forced his face to remain neutral, calm. As the future King, he was the person the people of Kyoumatsu would look to for guidance in troubling times such as this. It would be his first big challenge as monarch.
The Black Knight arrived without so much as a shout of his name, strolling into the hall quietly, his face impassive. Tegoshi watched as his three companions followed him in - two of them tall, one stockier with long hair and a rather becoming mole just on the outside of his right eye, the other thin and angular with pouty lips and sharp eyes. What the third companion lacked in height, he made up for in bravado, strutting into the hall like he owned the place.
"I don't think I like that one's face," Shige whispered. Tegoshi hid his smile with a slight cough.
The Black Knight himself was just what Tegoshi expected - tall, dark, handsome, with eyes that you could drown in. He wondered for a moment if he would be able to stand up to such a person. Drawing himself up, Tegoshi stared down his visitors as they approached, only to be shocked as they kneeled before him.
"Your highness," the Black Knight started, his voice softer and deeper than Tegoshi had anticipated. "We come in peace from the land of the nymphs at the behest of Queen Meisa."
Tegoshi was taken aback, but just for a moment. Queen? There was but one castle in Kyoumatsu and they were all standing in it.
"Rise, Sir Knight," Tegoshi commanded.
The four men rose as a unit and faced the Prince.
"I am Yamashita," the Black Knight began. "To my left is Akanishi." He gestured to the man with the long hair. "To my right, Yokoyama and Nishikido." The other two nodded. "We come in hopes of dining at your table."
"Of course, Sir Yamashita," Tegoshi said calmly, though his hands shook with nervousness. "We would be pleased to have you. Our chef Koyama is preparing the evening meal as we speak. Please." Tegoshi gestured to the high board. Yamashita would sit to his left, Shige ever present on his right. The three guests chose seats below the salt, with Tegoshi's own knights and servants.
Turning to Shige, Tegoshi found his advisor distracted, still warily eyeing the short, dark knight named Nishikido. "Problem, Shige?" he asked, concerned.
"I don't like the way he's looking at me," Shige replied. Tegoshi followed his line of sight and had to hold back laughter and compose his face before turning back. Nishikido was staring at Shige so hard, Tegoshi feared his advisor's clothes might burst into flame.
"I think you'll be fine, Shige." Turning, Tegoshi moved to take his place at the high board next to Yamashita.
"You have lovely grounds, your highness," Yamashita commented, his deep timbre vibrating Tegoshi's insides. "The peach groves, especially."
"Thank you." Tegoshi nodded at the page near the kitchen doors to bring out the first course. "Our peaches are the finest you'll find, sir. The annual Peach Festival is just around the corner and our chef has outdone himself again, it seems."
The first course was laid before the court - duck in peach sauce, freshly baked bread, sweet hard butter, and cool pitchers of juice and ale at each table. Tegoshi observed the lower area for a moment - Massu, ever friendly, had situated himself between Akanishi and Yokoyama, chattering away to the former as they stuffed their faces with Koyama's delicious dinner. Yokoyama looked around the room carefully, taking in all of his surroundings. Tegoshi could understand why Yamashita chose to bring him along. Those sharp eyes would be useful to any warrior.
"I do hope we're not inconveniencing you terribly, your highness," Yamashita said as he buttered a piece of bread carefully.
"Not at all," Tegoshi replied. Refilling Yamashita's cup, he took the opportunity to observe the man again. Definitely attractive, with well-defined features and those piercing eyes. "You're welcome at the castle as long as you may need quarter," he continued.
Yamashita leaned back and leveled Tegoshi with an unblinking stare. "I'm glad to hear you say that, your highness." Casually picking at his plate, Yamashita continued. "The Queen of the Nymphs, Meisa, has sent me to demand your surrender."
Tegoshi felt his temper start to rise at the knight's words. "Queen" Meisa? His blood boiled at the very thought. "Apologies, Sir Yamashita, but you'll be going home empty-handed. There can only be one monarch of Kyoumatsu and that is me. I'm sorry, but I will not be surrendering to your false Queen."
Shige placed a calming hand on Tegoshi's arm and the Prince instantly felt some of the tension drain from him. It would be okay. They would make it okay.
Yamashita simply smiled and nodded. "As expected, your highness. But my men and I are willing to stay here as long as necessary to achieve our goal."
"As you wish," Tegoshi said, his voice tight. He half wished the battle would be played out on the field with swords. A battle of wills, he thought, would be much more difficult to traverse.
---
The days passed relatively smoothly and quickly with the Black Knight and his men in the castle. Akanishi and Yokoyama, who insisted on being called Jin and Yoko, respectively, made quick friends with Massu and Koyama, the chef. Nishikido, who had formally introduced himself to Shige as "Ryo, your future consort," hovered around Shige to the point of distraction and annoyance on the advisor's part.
Yamashita had taken it upon himself to learn about the castle and its people. Tegoshi had found him on more than one occasion reading in the library or chatting with one of the river dryads about the land's irrigation problems. The Prince didn't even think to be threatened by Yamashita's curiosity and constant presence. He'd proven to a friendly adversary, at least, enjoying meals with Tegoshi and his court and had even taken to sparring with him during fencing practice. Tegoshi was glad he'd finally found someone on his level to practice with. Shige was always too afraid he'd hurt someone (namely himself). Before he knew it, Tegoshi realized the knight and his companions had been at the castle for almost a month.
It was a sunny afternoon two weeks before the Peach Festival and Tegoshi's formal coronation that the Prince decided it was time for a snack. Hoping to sneak some fresh honey and bread from the kitchen, Tegoshi hurried down the stairs, stopping just short of the doorway when he heard voices and laughter.
"I'm telling you, the Queen is nuts."
"Yeah, but she's still the Queen of Nymphs, Jin."
"In title only, Yoko," came the sneering reply.
"Regardless, she could have you hanged."
Tegoshi dared to peek around the corner at the little gathering for just a moment. Jin, Massu and Yoko were seated at the long prep table, snacking on whatever was leftover from lunch. Koyama stood over the fire, stirring a pot of something that smelled sinfully delicious as always. Tegoshi pulled back, fearing being seen, but stayed for a moment, listening. Maybe he could uncover something that would help him, would help them in the long run.
"Hanged, schmanged," Jin said thickly though a piece of toast. "You know she only sent Pi on this trip to get him killed, right?"
"Pi?" Massu and Koyama asked in unison.
"Yamashita," Yoko replied, his voice tight. Tegoshi could imagine his frown so clearly, he had to stifle a laugh.
"Anyway, Pi's dad was a fairy, his mom was a nymph. I think Queen Crazy was hoping he'd come here, act like an idiot out for revenge or something and start her war," Jin concluded.
"Too much information, Jin," Yoko scolded. "I don't know if you've noticed, but we're still in enemy territory."
Jin's high pitched laughter echoed off the kitchen's high walls, soon mixed with Koyama's giggles and Massu's own guffaws.
"'Enemy territory,' Yoko? I'm with Prince Tegoshi," Jin said, tapping the table with his glass. "We're a country that needs uniting. There is no such thing as enemy territory anymore."
"So what does Yamashita's heritage have to do for your mission from the Queen?" Koyama asked.
The room was silent for so long, Tegoshi was tempted to look around the corner again, make sure they were all still breathing. Then Yokoyama continued.
"I don't know, Koyama. And honestly, that scares me."
Tegoshi sucked in a quiet breath and let it out slowly. What did that mean? If Yamashita was half-fairy, maybe his loyalties weren't quite so black and white after all. Content that he'd heard all he was going to (and definitely wasn't going to get his snack), Tegoshi hurried to his bedchamber and collapsed in a chair, thinking.
"Interesting," he breathed. "Very interesting indeed."
---
The Peach Festival and Tegoshi's coronation drew closer every passing day. Preparations for both had been laid out months, even years in advance, but it was not the ceremony or festival he was worried about. Yamashita and his men remained in the castle and showed no signs of wanting to leave. Massu had confessed to Tegoshi that he'd caught Ryo and Shige in the barn the week before. Doing what, neither of them dared guess.
Tegoshi had taken to a daily stroll through the peach groves. He found them oddly comforting. Something about the familiarity, the stability of the trees calmed him. They were home to him, from the sweet smell of ripe fruit to the prettiest new bud on a branch. One late afternoon, Tegoshi wandered from tree to tree, inspecting the flowers for any signs of decay or bugs, when he caught sight of Yamashita talking to a faun.
"Late spring, you say?" he was asking.
"Oh yes sir," the faun replied, smiling broadly. "By the time the first summer heat rolls in, it's too late, but mid-to-late spring is the best time for peaches."
"Fascinating," Yamashita replied. He shook the faun's hand and stood, brushing the dirt from his backside. Tegoshi stepped closer as he turned and greeted the Knight.
"Sir Knight," he nodded.
"Your Highness," Yamashita said, with equal sincerity.
They stared at each other for a moment before chuckling quietly. The last few weeks had found Tegoshi enjoying the Knight's company. He wondered if the feeling was, indeed, mutual.
"Walk with me, Yamashita," Tegoshi said, tilting his head toward the opposite end of the grove.
"Of course, your highness," Yamashita acquiesced.
"You can call me Tegoshi, you know."
"Alright, Tegoshi." Yamashita smiled, showing off that one little gap between his front teeth and Tegoshi couldn't help but smile back.
"Taking up gardening? Or simply being nosy about my peach orchards?" Tegoshi asked, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"Mostly nosiness," the Knight replied. "But partial pure curiosity. We don't have the soil to grow fruit trees in the Nymphland. The faun was helping me figure out if it was even possible or if I should simply implore you for a few dozen bushels of peaches before we go."
Tegoshi smiled sadly as he watched his feet. One step and then the next. "When exactly are you going, Yamashita?"
"You can call me Pi, if you'd like, your high- Tegoshi," Yamashita said, placing one hand on Tegoshi's arm and looking at him fondly.
"Very well," Tegoshi replied. He looked at Yamashita and asked again. "When exactly are you going, Pi?"
"When the job is done, I suppose."
"And when will that be?"
Silence stretched between them as they walked. They both knew the answer to the question, but neither wanted to say it. Yamashita's objective hadn't changed since he'd arrived at the castle. If anything, Tegoshi's familiarity with the Knight and his men may have made it easier for them. He tried not to think that they would all betray him so easily, but Tegoshi wasn't unprepared for such an instance.
The pair soon found themselves in the circle of cherry blossom trees. Tegoshi sighed happily, letting his eyes slide shut as he sat against the ground, his back firmly against one solid trunk.
"Beautiful," Yamashita said quietly.
"Isn't it?" Tegoshi opened his eyes to see Yamashita turning away quickly, his cheeks pink. He chose to ignore it for the moment. "It's my favorite place," Tegoshi continued, gesturing at the five ancient trees. "The soothsayer claims this is the most magical place in all of Kyoumatsu."
"I believe it," Yamashita replied. He settled himself against the next tree over, mirroring Tegoshi's stance.
The next few hours flew by as the pair sat beneath the cherry blossoms, discussing everything they could possibly think of - the weather, Koyama's cooking, the way Yokoyama was entirely too paranoid for his own good, the trees slowly releasing their flowers to the winds. Night was beginning to fall when they finally stood and moved back through the orchard, a comfortable silence between them. Something in Tegoshi still squirmed uncomfortably - a question he needed answered.
"Pi," he started, the nickname feeling awkward on his tongue. "Why, exactly, honestly, are you here?"
Yamashita stopped just outside the edge of the trees and, reaching up, plucked a large, ripe peach from a branch. He examined it for a moment, tossing it from one hand to the other before smiling at Tegoshi a bit sadly. "To dethrone you, of course."
Tegoshi huffed, annoyed. "Pi."
"Shige's heading to the barn again," Yamashita commented, buffing the peach against his shirtsleeve. "Your advisor could learn a few things about subtlety." He turned and walked toward the castle, leaving Tegoshi a bit shell-shocked behind him. The Prince hurried to catch up, reaching Yamashita's side just as he rolled the peach from one hand, across his broad shoulders, down the other arm and in a smooth arc to Tegoshi's waiting palm.
"Good catch, your highness," Yamashita said quietly.
Tegoshi looked down at his peach and smiled before taking a bite. Perfect.
---
His sparring partner feinted again, then spun away as Tegoshi advanced. They danced around each other in a circle, each trying to find a way in.
"May I have a shot at it?"
Tegoshi whipped around and, spotting Yamashita by the door, smiled broadly. "Pi," he said, still trying to get comfortable to the nickname. "Yeah, come on in."
Waiting patiently for Yamashita to get his own equipment ready, Tegoshi noticed something different about his opponent's stance.
"What's wrong?" he asked, tilting his head to the side.
"Nothing," Yamashita replied tersely. "Ready?"
They both took the sparring starting position and, at the signal, began circling each other, poking here and there to feel each other out. Tegoshi found himself enjoying sparring with Yamashita more than he expected - the Knight was light on his feet, intelligent, could obviously read his partner well. Tegoshi spun once, doing a quick number of jabs as he went, but not landing a single blow. Yamashita was good.
"Not too bad for a fairy," Yamashita remarked, something dark in his voice.
"Years of training and natural grace," Tegoshi replied. "I'd say you're not bad for a nymph, but I've seen better."
Yamashita scowled and parried Tegoshi's advance. The competition went back and forth for several minutes, the tension getting higher and higher as neither landed a blow. Tegoshi fought back a smile as he quick footed away from Yamashita's riposte to the opposite end of the circle.
"Running away?" Yamashita sneered. Tegoshi was surprised to see the expression upon his face.
"No, just trying not to get stabbed." Tegoshi paused, pointing his sabre to the floor to halt the fight. "Is everything okay with you? You seem kind of off today."
"I'm fine. Let's do this." Yamashita took his starting stance again and lunged before Tegoshi could compose himself.
"Hey!"
"You expect to defend your country when you can't even sense a fencing attack?" Yamashita's face had twisted into something dark. Tegoshi no longer saw his friend there, the person he'd come to trust and like over the last few weeks.
"Defending my country is nothing like beating a brute at a silly game," Tegoshi shot back.
Yamashita drew himself up to full height and lunged. "Brute? Hardly. At least I know how to fight," he said, knocking the base of Tegoshi's saber with the tip of his own. Tegoshi barely held on to it as he spun to block the next blow.
"I know very well how to fight," Tegoshi replied angrily. "I've spent my whole life training, learning how to protect Kyoumatsu. I've done nothing but try to keep our country, our land, our people together." He moved to sidestep another of Yamashita's advances. "And you've come in and completely capsized my life!"
The realization struck Tegoshi hard. Something had happened between them during their last few weeks together. Maybe the day in the cherry blossoms had been the final marker, but Tegoshi knew he couldn't let Yamashita leave. Not like this. Angry, he lunged again and finally landed a blow. Catching Yamashita's upper arm with the tip of his blade, Tegoshi pulled back in horror at the sight of blood flowing freely on the Knight's white shirt.
"I'm so sorry," he started, dropping his sabre and stepping forward. Before he knew what was happening, Tegoshi was flat on his back, Yamashita over him, panting hard, face still full of anger. "I'm sorry, Pi," Tegoshi repeated. "Let's get you to the nurse, come on."
"No," Yamashita growled. "I was sent here to kill you, Tegoshi. I could do it right now, end this war, and go home to my life."
Tegoshi's eyes went wide with shock. He should have known. He should have kept his guard up, but no, he'd spent weeks becoming friends with his enemy. Maybe something more. And now he was here going to run him through.
Yamashita rolled away, landing on his back next to Tegoshi and stared up at the bright spring sky. Tegoshi's shock paralyzed him for a moment before pushing himself up on one elbow.
"What-"
"My father was a fairy," Yamashita interrupted. "My father was a fairy and my mother was a nymph and when they died, I was put in the care of the Queen. She took me in, made me a page. I worked my way through the ranks until I became the greatest knight she had."
"I know," Tegoshi whispered.
"You know?" The shock in Yamashita's voice caused a chuckle to rise through Tegoshi, only to be forced back down as he nodded.
"I knew your father was a fairy," he replied. "I heard Jin talking about it a few days ago."
Yamashita sighed and closed his eyes. Reaching over, he put his hand against his wound. It was superficial, it seemed; the bleeding had all but stopped now.
"I'm tired of fighting," he said quietly. Opening his dark eyes, Yamashita looked at Tegoshi with such honesty, Tegoshi felt his heart break a little. "I just want peace."
Tegoshi, always probably a bit more impulsive than he should be, leaned down and kissed him, soft and sure. Pulling away, he saw the flicker of emotions across Yamashita's face - confusion, worry, and finally, happiness.
"Then help me build it."
---
Tegoshi, His Majesty the King of Kyoumatsu, was coronated on his 20th birthday, surrounded by friends, family, his most trusted of colleagues, and the one that meant the most to him. The Peach Festival that immediately followed was the most successful to date. The groves surrounding the castle bore more fruit that year than any other before or since. Koyama busied himself in the kitchens, creating new and delicious peach-themed dishes.
Shortly after his coronation, King Tegoshi received word that the false monarch, Queen Meisa, had been imprisoned by her own people and charged with insanity and treason. The country of Kyoumatsu heaved a collective sigh of relief and entered an era of peace and comfort for all.
---
Ten Years Later
Yamashita strolled through the castle one last time. His patrol for the night was over, to be taken over by his newly appointed knight, Yamada. The young nymph had a lot of potential and Yamashita was glad he'd chosen that path. Nodding to the various staff he encountered ending their days, Yamashita smiled to himself. After the fall of the False Queen, Kyoumatsu had become a land of peace and prosperity. Knights were all but unneeded anymore. But King Tegoshi had kept them all in his employ, demanding they maintain their training on the grounds that one just never knew when unexpected visitors would show up.
Arriving at his destination, Yamashita knocked twice on the solid oak door.
"Enter."
Coming into the warm, cozy room, Yamashita bolted the door behind him.
"My liege," he said, bowing to the room's only occupant.
"I thought I told you not to call me that," Tegoshi scowled, lying in bed, propped up by a dozen fluffy pillows.
Yamashita began removing his weapons, first the sabre, then the daggers, and stacked them in their usual place.
"I just like to see you scowl at me that way," Yamashita replied, moving to strip off his garments slowly.
"You really shouldn't treat your king with such disrespect, Sir Knight," Tegoshi sniffed.
Yamashita chuckled as he tugged off his stockings, finally naked as the day he was born. "You are not the king of this bedroom, Tegoshi," he replied, climbing into the giant bed and wrapping an arm around Tegoshi's waist.
Tegoshi resisted for a moment before melting into Yamashita's touch. "Are you going to try to overthrow me, Pi?" he teased, running a hand down Yamashita's strong arms. His fingers stopped at a scar, a decade old now.
"I prefer to think of this as an oligarchy," Yamashita replied as he hooked one strong hand around Tegoshi's hip. He was pleased to find his partner just as nude as he.
Tegoshi's fingers traced the lines of Yamashita's chest, his stomach, as if he'd forgotten them over the course of the day. Ten years of exploration and they had yet to get tired of each other. Yamashita enjoyed the way his little king pushed him, fought him at every turn with that arrogant smile before the court, but was so giving behind closed doors. He tugged Tegoshi closer, their erections sliding against each other. Yamashita groaned quietly at the feeling. He was sure he'd never tire of this. Gasping, Yamashita twitched slightly as Tegoshi's fingers encircled them both, stroking lightly.
Yamashita buried his face in Tegoshi's light brown hair, breathing deep the scents of his day - the musky sweetness of the peach groves mixed with the dust and age of the libraries. Without even asking, Yamashita could be sure Tegoshi had spent the day reading among the trees. He smiled, then gasped again as Tegoshi's hand slid over the head of his cock smoothly.
"Tego," he whispered, voice tight. Yamashita's hips started rolling with the movement of Tegoshi's hand, their cocks dragging against each other with the most delicious friction. He knew he wouldn't last long like this, he rarely did when Tegoshi's clever hands were at work.
"Pi," Tegoshi replied, just as quietly. "What would I do without my knight by my side?" His hand flew over their joined erections and Yamashita felt the tension building quickly in his abdomen.
Yamashita came with a shout, his seed spilling over Tegoshi's hand and stomach, slicking the space between them further. Tegoshi continued stroking Yamashita's sensitive cock against his own until finally, he came with a shudder and a sigh.
They both lay there for several moments, catching their breaths and kissing softly. Eventually, Yamashita rolled over and moistened the awaiting cloth before cleaning them both quickly. Tegoshi shivered against his touch, his cock still sensitive to the touch. Tossing the cloth away, Yamashita moved back to his place and drew Tegoshi against his chest. He dropped light kisses across the top of Tegoshi's head and sighed happily.
Later they would do this again, maybe fuck a little. He'd blow Tegoshi and they'd fall asleep in each other's arms. Tomorrow they would wake up and do it all over again - the meetings, the patrols, meals with their friends and advisors, before coming back to their shared chamber to love each other again and again. She was undoubtedly crazy, but Yamashita felt a strong sense of gratitude toward Queen Meisa. She had given him Tegoshi, perhaps not in the way she intended, but certainly in a much more pleasing than he'd anticipated. As Tegoshi dotted kisses across his broad chest, Yamashita sighed again. All was right with the world in Kyoumatsu and would be for a very long time.
Groups: NEWS (mentions of Arashi, some Kanjani and KAT-TUN members)
Pairing/Genre: Tego/Pi, side Tego/Kame, implied Shige/Ryo; Fantasy/Fairytale AU
Rating/Warnings: NC-17; overuse of fairytale elements?
Word Count: 8000
Summary: "Tell this to the land, bluebird. Tell them of the boy who will be King. Tell them of his might and his kindness. Of his struggle. Tell them how he will defeat a warrior from a far off land in an unexpected battle. Tell them just one word, bluebird."
Notes: Written for nillahoney for je_otherworlds. Any location or creature names are purely my own creation (unless they're a completely obvious allusion to something else - then that was intended :D). This was a challenge to write (as I pretty obviously don't write NEWS!fic...XD;;), but in the end, a lot of fun! Special thanks to my beta, Anie, and my hand holder/personal cheerleader, Rio.
•••••
Once upon a time, across the Seas of Sinoshi, in the deepest recesses of Pinasha Forest lived a soothsayer. The creatures of Kyoumatsu spoke in hushed voices of the soothsayer. Some called her a witch, others still referred to her as nothing more than a seer, but all the subjects of the fairy kingdom respected her wisdom. Her predictions never failed, never faltered. From the weather to the birth of a child to the first leaves emerging to greet spring, the soothsayer had never once been incorrect.
It was for that reason that her prediction sent the troubled Kingdom into a tizzy one cold winter's day . Standing over her magical lotus, the soothsayer's gnarled hands wove through the pink and yellow smoke it emitted, carving images into the air.
"Twenty years hence," she rasped, eyes clouded with age. "A child will become a man. A man will become a King. And a King will unite the lands of Kyoumatsu under one name once and for all."
A bluebird in a nearby tree leaned closer to hear her prediction, scarcely making a sound. Her eyes, still unseeing, snapped to him as she carried on.
"Tell this to the land, bluebird. Tell them of the fairy boy who will be King. Tell them of his might and his kindness. Of his struggle. Tell them how he will defeat a warrior from a far off land in an unwinnable battle. Tell them just one word, bluebird."
The air stilled, as if every creature in the forest awaited the soothsayer's voice. She paused and the lotus erupted into gold and pink flames, higher and higher still. Unblinking, she stared at the bluebird as her hands wove through the cold fire. The forest plunged into darkness as she whispered one final word.
"Tegoshi."
---
"Tegoshi!" A strangled cry broke the quiet afternoon air. Tegoshi pushed his dappled mare further.
"Come on, old girl, you can do this," he encouraged. With a whinny, Mikka whipped her silvery mane and galloped harder.
The day had demanded a race; Tegoshi knew that the moment he awoke that bright spring morning. The air was crisp and cool and hinted at warmer days ahead. All around the castle, the lush green lawns sparkled in the sunlight, every square yard carefully tended by its own gnome. Some of the more adventurous gnomes had started planting their summer flowers - baby's breath, peonies, and the occasional hydrangea bush. The peach grove was in full bloom and would be bearing fruit for the nation's annual Peach Festival in no time. Not far from the castle gate stood the ancient, perfectly circular copse of cherry blossom trees. Some called it the most magical place in the world. Tegoshi had studied beneath those trees as a boy.
Now, as a man, he raced past them at top speed, Mikka's breath coming harder as her hooves beat the ground mercilessly. As they approached the stables, Tegoshi leaned down and held on tight. Mikka spun quickly into the stable door, dirt, grass and clumps of clay spraying up as the momentum carried them through. Laughing, Tegoshi hopped off Mikka and patted her long neck fondly.
"That's my girl," he said, offering her a carrot from his pocket. Mikka munched happily, turning her nose into his hand and nuzzling her companion.
Tegoshi moved away and began adjusting his hair. Racing was one of his favorite activities, but it wreaked havoc on his hair every time. Surely the counsel knew of a charm to prevent it. Tegoshi scowled as he recalled a meeting with the Five later that day. Something important they wanted to discuss, their page had said. That never boded well, in Tegoshi's opinion.
"You shouldn't push her so hard, Tego." A bright, cheery voice filtered through Tegoshi's thoughts. He turned and cocked and eyebrow at Masuda, the stable master.
"She can take it, Massu," he said, patting Mikka's flanks fondly. Masuda's smile tilted downward for half a moment before returning to its usual place. Tegoshi smiled back at his childhood friend, glad they'd found a place for Massu in the castle. It helped that he was so good with the horses, tending to their health and daily care.
"Alright," Massu replied, taking Mikka's reins in hand. "But don't come crying to me when she bucks you one day." Tegoshi waved them off, smiling, as Massu led away his prize mare. Mikka wouldn't throw him, they both knew that. She loved him too much, and he, her.
Tegoshi was smoothing down the last errant strand of hair when a second horse came thundering into the stables, its rider heaving and coughing as he slid off the black gelding. Tegoshi laughed, full and loud, as he watched his most trusted advisor, Shigeaki, stumble around, attempting to regain his footing now that he was back on solid ground.
"I believe that's 23 to nothing, Shige," Tegoshi said with a smirk, leaning casually against the doorframe of the stable. "This year, anyway."
Shige scowled at Tegoshi and righted himself, drawing up to his full height and looking down at his friend.
"Prince Tegoshi, this is hardly dignified for either of us. Why do you insist on playing these silly games?" he sneered. Shige raked a hand through his own mussed hair, coughing a few times as the dust settled.
Tegoshi just laughed again and pushed himself off the doorframe. "Come now, Shige, don't be sore! It's not my fault you chose the dumbest horse in the stable and ended up in the peach groves!"
Shige's scowl deepened. "You know, after your coronation this kind of thing will have to stop."
"The King of Fairies can't race and subsequently beat his top advisor?" Tegoshi asked, one perfect eyebrow arched in disbelief.
"You'll be too busy," Shige replied, still scowling. Tegoshi resisted the urge to tell him his face would get stuck that way, instead tossing his arm around Shige's shoulders and tugging him close.
"Oh, Shige, don't be such a stick-in-the-mud," Tegoshi teased. "You're too young to have all your fun sucked right out of you."
"I'm older than you are," Shige muttered. He sighed and wrenched his way from Tegoshi's grasp. "How about we cross that bridge when we get to it?" he suggested, forcing a smile. "Come on, you've got a meeting with the Counsel in a few minutes. Mustn't be late. You know how Matsumoto gets when you stroll in after the official start time."
Tegoshi laughed again, picturing Matsumoto's strong features contorting into that face of disapproval he wore so often.
"I might show up a few minutes late anyway," he said, eyes dancing. "I do enjoy when Matsumoto scolds me." With a bark of laughter, Tegoshi hurried up the hill to the castle, Shige trailing behind, a small, reluctant smile on his face.
---
"Prince Tegoshi, you're late again," Matsumoto thundered as Tegoshi strolled into the counsel room, Shige still trying to catch up.
The Counsel of Five had been created long before Tegoshi was born and would likely exist long after he'd passed into the next life. They served as his top advisors, each member in charge of a different aspect of their world. Matsumoto, the head of the Counsel, and also the youngest, was protector of earth - steady and powerful. To his left sat Sakurai, staid protector of the spirits of the land. The last on the left was Aiba, protector of air and wind, his smile consistently bright. Ninomiya and Ohno sat huddled to the right of Matsumoto, drawing on a piece of parchment and ignoring the proceedings as usual. In his years as Prince of Kyoumatsu, Tegoshi had never once heard Ohno's voice. Opposites in every way, Ninomiya, protector of fire and creation, was obnoxious and sly, while his counterpart, protector of water and sea, was quiet, with a sweet smile.
"Apologies, your honors," Tegoshi said, sweeping into a low bow. "Urgent business with my advisor, Kato." Turning slightly, Tegoshi tossed a wink in Shige's direction and carefully ignored the rolled eyes he received in return.
"Racing the Kingdom's finest horses is not what one might deem 'urgent business,' your highness," Sakurai interjected, leaning forward slightly. Tegoshi liked Sakurai generally, but significantly less so when his interjections led to Matsumoto's face getting even darker with rage.
"In my defense, Sir Sakurai, Kato's horse was hardly one of the best in the land." Shige squeaked in protest behind him.
Sighing, Sakurai leaned back and Tegoshi knew he'd won this battle.
Matsumoto leveled Tegoshi with an even stare and continued. "You have been called here today, Prince Tegoshi, for a matter of urgent business. Ohno?"
Silence.
"Ohno?"
Ninomiya giggled.
"Satoshi!"
Ohno looked up from his doodles and grinned at Matsumoto, cracking his icy exterior. Tegoshi knew Ohno was the most magical of the Counsel, but he hadn't seen it with his own eyes. Not like that. Ohno turned his sweet smile to Tegoshi, eyes crinkling and nose scrunching up.
"Oh, Tegoshi's here."
Matsumoto sighed. Tegoshi just smiled back and waited patiently for Ohno to continue. A moment passed before Ninomiya rolled his eyes and nudged Ohno in the ribs.
"Ow," he breathed, looking at Ninomiya with hurt eyes. Ninomiya just nodded in the direction of the Prince. "Oh, right right." Turning back to Tegoshi, Ohno started speaking, his voice melodic and even.
"Prince Tegoshi, on the night of your birth, nearly twenty years ago, the soothsayer deep in the Forests of Pinasha predicted your royalty." Tegoshi nodded. Everyone knew this part of the story - the bluebird had been sent to spread the news, to find the Prince and anoint him that day. Tegoshi had been raised in the palace, away from his birth parents, and in the lap of luxury for the last twenty years.
Ohno continued in that same even tone. "What is less well known is the second part of the sage's prediction - that you would have to fight for our lands, to unite Kyoumatsu under one flag."
"I knew that part, though," Tegoshi replied, vaguely bored. He'd heard this before. The lands of Kyoumatsu had been struck by civil war ages before he'd been born - nymphs to one corner, fairyfolk to the other. While they maintained relative peace, tensions between the divided factions had been growing.
"An unwinnable battle, your highness," Ohno continued, his eyes clouding over as he saw the images in his mind. "A black knight."
A hush swept through the room. That part was significantly less well known.
"He comes tomorrow."
---
Kamenashi's skin was positively delicious. The candlelight danced across his golden skin as Tegoshi stared, entranced by the show. He leaned in to taste it again, tongue lapping lightly at the juncture of Kame's neck and shoulder. Tegoshi wondered if he would ever tire of his favorite bed partner. The pixie Kamenashi had been his alone for several years.
The Counsel's news had shaken Tegoshi more than he was willing to admit. He'd practically flown out of the counsel room, Shige close on his heels. The fight was supposed to be legend, myth. Not something he would legitimately have to face. Tegoshi was scared of what the next day would bring; even his advisor was nervous. Tegoshi couldn't remember a time when he'd seen Shige quite so shaken, and that included his first time on a stallion.
Hours after the meeting with the Counsel, Tegoshi found himself in the company of Kamenashi once again. It was as if the pixie knew exactly when Tegoshi needed him and appeared, ready to service his lord however he could.
Tegoshi's hands brushed lightly over Kame's skin, revisiting every dip and ridge along his back. Kame's shoulders were well-made, broad and strong. Tegoshi traced the line of Kame's spine from his neck to his hips, enjoying the silky feel of pixie skin. No other creature in the land had skin like this - soft and smooth, the buttery lightness of new leather. Kame moaned into the pillow as Tegoshi explored his body for the thousandth time. Tegoshi enjoyed eliciting those little sounds from Kame almost as much as he enjoyed thrusting into him, deep and hard, watching Kame's head thrash about as Tegoshi brought him to his climax and then continued to pound into his over-sensitive body, Kame's legs shaking with exertion and pleasure.
But that night, Tegoshi had a desire for something different. Nudging at Kame's hip with one hand, he turned the pixie over and kissed him deeply. They were naked as they day they were born, erections bumping occasionally, a thin layer of sweat across both their foreheads. Tegoshi's lips were hard across Kame's, forcing them open and nipping at the full bottom one. Kame caught Tegoshi's lip with his own teeth and bit down hard in retaliation. That was why Tegoshi enjoyed fucking Kame - it was a never-ending battle of wills and dominance. Growling, Tegoshi rolled his hips downward, twining his tongue around Kame's at the same moment. Kame moaned and his own hips twitched up to meet Tegoshi, their erections brushing in almost painful pleasure.
Snaking one hand between them, Tegoshi grasped both cocks and lightly squeezed them together. Kame arched off the bed, trying to thrust up into Tegoshi's hand, but Tegoshi was prepared and leaned away. He would do this at his own pace. Kame cracked an eye and glared at him before grabbing Tegoshi's hips and tugging him down hard.
"If you're going to do it," he murmured, breath heavy and fast. "Do it properly."
"Oh, I do like when you're bossy, Kame," Tegoshi replied before sucking lightly at Kame's neck. His hand stilled and Kame whined quietly. Seconds later, Tegoshi gave in, pulling back just enough to watch Kame's face as he fisted them both quickly, the movement picking up pace as they both got closer to their climax, precome spreading with every pass of Tegoshi's palm.
Kame's expression when he came was one of Tegoshi's favorite sights. His body tensed as he came, then shook as Tegoshi continued to stroke his over-sensitive cock until finally, Tegoshi took pity and pulled his hand away, wiping it on the nearby cloth. Looking down at Kame's flushed cheeks and kiss-swollen lips, Tegoshi understood why pixies were considered the most beautiful of all the creatures in Kyoumatsu. Kame's eyes fluttered open and he smiled, a little shy and reserved. He patted Tegoshi's hips and jerked his head backward.
"Up," he whispered, tugging on the back of Tegoshi's legs.
It took a moment for the Prince to understand what Kame wanted, but as the pixie rearranged the pillows behind his head, Tegoshi understood. Sliding up Kame's body, Tegoshi settled his knees on either side of his chest, dick bobbing lightly against Kame's clavicle. Kame's tongue darted out to catch the tip, feather-light and teasing. Tegoshi moaned and arched slightly, thrusting his cock closer to Kame's mouth. He gasped as Kame took it in, a hot, wet suction just around the tip. Tegoshi arched further, his hands on Kame's thighs, dick trapped between those swollen lips. Kame slid his tongue along the slit and around again, sucking lightly as he went. Through his lust-filled haze, Tegoshi remembered, yet again, why he kept Kame around.
Tegoshi gasped, too loud in the quiet bedchamber, as Kame tugged his hips close, taking Tegoshi's cock deep in his mouth. Tegoshi's hips pulsed lightly, forcing himself between Kame's inviting lips and back out again. A few moments passed and Kame pulled back to stare up at Tegoshi. Confused, Tegoshi leaned over him, grasping the headboard and panting.
"What is it?" he breathed, still fully hard and slick with Kame's spit.
"Fuck my mouth," Kame replied. It was so honest, so frank, it took Tegoshi's breath away for a moment.
Kame's hands grasped Tegoshi's buttocks and pulled him close again, sucking him down until Tegoshi could feel the head of his cock bump the back of Kame's throat. He choked out a sob and pulled back, then thrust in slightly. Kame's fingers tightened on his ass and Tegoshi moved again, pushing in harder. A moan rippled up Kame's throat and through Tegoshi's body. He shuddered and picked up pace, thrusting and shaking as Kame took him deeper and deeper, again and again.
"God, Kame, I'm going to...."
Kame reached around to pull Tegoshi's dick from his mouth, jerking him quickly onto his face. Tegoshi cried out, throwing his head back as he came hard onto Kame's lips and chin. Finally spent, Tegoshi dropped his head forward again, still gripping the headboard tight, and caught sight of Kame licking his lips in satisfaction.
"You're terrible," Tegoshi whispered.
"And you love it," Kame replied with a wink.
Tegoshi resituated himself on the bed next to Kame and heaved a sigh. Looking at the pixie, Tegoshi smiled. "Maybe just a little," he admitted.
Kame just hummed in response before moving to clean them both up. The cloth was soft and warm against Tegoshi's skin, a welcome respite from their lovemaking.
"So are you going to tell me what's wrong?" Kame asked, smoothing the cloth across Tegoshi's stomach and chest. He shivered, then pouted a moment before sighing.
"A black knight is coming tomorrow to try to take the Kingdom from me."
Kame hummed again in understanding.
"Ohno called it an unwinnable battle," Tegoshi continued. "That...worries me."
"You're worried about something Ohno said?" Kame chuckled. "It's Ohno. He spends more time talking to the fish in the lake than actually trying to catch them. I wouldn't worry too much about it."
Tegoshi frowned and looked away. "But I am worried, Kame. Legitimately," he said quietly. "What if I lose? What if we lose? What will happen to our people?"
"Tego," Kame said, his voice full of affection. He placed one hand on Tegoshi's cheek, turning his head to face him. "You are a fantastic Prince and will make a great King, regardless of what the Counsel thinks or has to say." He shrugged. "If you have to fight, fight. If you lose, you lose. But you will go down knowing you have fought and lost for the greatest reason - your people."
Tegoshi stared at him for a moment, wondering how a pixie could be so wise. He propped himself up on one elbow and pulled Kame down for a kiss, soft and sweet.
"Thank you," he whispered, touching their foreheads together.
"Of course," Kame replied as he brushed his lips across Tegoshi's cheek. "Now sleep, your highness. Busy day tomorrow. You have a country to save."
Tegoshi leaned back against the pillows, tugging Kame down with him. He knew when he awoke, the pixie would be gone, only to return when he was needed again. That broke Tegoshi's heart just a little.
---
The air around the castle was still as an early morning lake. Nary a creature dare move, lest they break the spell. A hush had fallen over the grounds as rumor of the Black Knight and his detachment's imminent arrival and the foretold battle. The people were worried. How would their Prince handle the situation?
Tegoshi had awoken that morning predictably alone, but with a new resolve to end this skirmish without bloodshed. Kame at least had the decency to order him breakfast from the kitchens before sneaking out. Tegoshi held no illusions of what his relationship with Kamenashi entailed - they served a purpose for each other, plain and simple. Kame showed up when Tego needed him and disappeared just as quickly. It was a system that had worked rather well for several years. Tegoshi pushed lonely thoughts from his mind as he ate his breakfast and prepared for the day.
A meeting with Shige and the Counsel had confirmed Tegoshi's plan of attack - or rather, non-attack. Tegoshi intended to lose zero lives upon the Black Knight's arrival, but he was not ill prepared. Sentries were hidden along the castle walls and had been mixed into the house staff. Should trouble arise, they would be ready. The thought of blood being spilled on his castle grounds made Tegoshi sick to his stomach. He was supposed to protect the people, keep them healthy and happy. Holding his head high, he resolved to do just that, however he could.
Koyama, the castle chef, had prepared a delicious peach-themed meal for the evening. The Black Knight and his troupe would be invited to stay for the meal, then negotiations, then if that failed, they would be asked to leave. It was the most diplomatic decision Tegoshi could come up with.
He prayed it would work.
The mid-afternoon sun blazed over head when the first whispers of the Knight's approach reached the castle. Tegoshi and Shige stood atop the wall to watch the riders in a distance. Four of them, all on dark colored horses. From that far, Tegoshi couldn't tell, but it appeared they carried themselves like nymphs, save for the front most rider. He carried himself...oddly. Tegoshi cocked his head to the side as he watched them ride, trying to decipher the difference.
"Your highness," Shige said loudly, as if he'd already said it several times. "There are only four of them."
"I know, Shige. I can count," Tegoshi replied, scowling.
"I meant," Shige sighed heavily. "I meant there are only four of them. We have three dozen sentries between the edge of the peach groves and the castle gates. We could-"
"No," Tegoshi replied, cutting his advisor off. "We're not playing dirty. These men deserve our attention." Turning to face Shige, Tegoshi set his face firmly. "The sentries are just a backup plan. They are not to move without my word."
Shige stared him down for a moment before hanging his head slightly and nodding. "You're right, my lord," he agreed. "Let's get down to the hall before they arrive. If we're going to stand our ground, let's at least look good doing it."
The castle was somber as Tegoshi made his way to the hall to greet the visitors. His stomach turned nervously, but he forced his face to remain neutral, calm. As the future King, he was the person the people of Kyoumatsu would look to for guidance in troubling times such as this. It would be his first big challenge as monarch.
The Black Knight arrived without so much as a shout of his name, strolling into the hall quietly, his face impassive. Tegoshi watched as his three companions followed him in - two of them tall, one stockier with long hair and a rather becoming mole just on the outside of his right eye, the other thin and angular with pouty lips and sharp eyes. What the third companion lacked in height, he made up for in bravado, strutting into the hall like he owned the place.
"I don't think I like that one's face," Shige whispered. Tegoshi hid his smile with a slight cough.
The Black Knight himself was just what Tegoshi expected - tall, dark, handsome, with eyes that you could drown in. He wondered for a moment if he would be able to stand up to such a person. Drawing himself up, Tegoshi stared down his visitors as they approached, only to be shocked as they kneeled before him.
"Your highness," the Black Knight started, his voice softer and deeper than Tegoshi had anticipated. "We come in peace from the land of the nymphs at the behest of Queen Meisa."
Tegoshi was taken aback, but just for a moment. Queen? There was but one castle in Kyoumatsu and they were all standing in it.
"Rise, Sir Knight," Tegoshi commanded.
The four men rose as a unit and faced the Prince.
"I am Yamashita," the Black Knight began. "To my left is Akanishi." He gestured to the man with the long hair. "To my right, Yokoyama and Nishikido." The other two nodded. "We come in hopes of dining at your table."
"Of course, Sir Yamashita," Tegoshi said calmly, though his hands shook with nervousness. "We would be pleased to have you. Our chef Koyama is preparing the evening meal as we speak. Please." Tegoshi gestured to the high board. Yamashita would sit to his left, Shige ever present on his right. The three guests chose seats below the salt, with Tegoshi's own knights and servants.
Turning to Shige, Tegoshi found his advisor distracted, still warily eyeing the short, dark knight named Nishikido. "Problem, Shige?" he asked, concerned.
"I don't like the way he's looking at me," Shige replied. Tegoshi followed his line of sight and had to hold back laughter and compose his face before turning back. Nishikido was staring at Shige so hard, Tegoshi feared his advisor's clothes might burst into flame.
"I think you'll be fine, Shige." Turning, Tegoshi moved to take his place at the high board next to Yamashita.
"You have lovely grounds, your highness," Yamashita commented, his deep timbre vibrating Tegoshi's insides. "The peach groves, especially."
"Thank you." Tegoshi nodded at the page near the kitchen doors to bring out the first course. "Our peaches are the finest you'll find, sir. The annual Peach Festival is just around the corner and our chef has outdone himself again, it seems."
The first course was laid before the court - duck in peach sauce, freshly baked bread, sweet hard butter, and cool pitchers of juice and ale at each table. Tegoshi observed the lower area for a moment - Massu, ever friendly, had situated himself between Akanishi and Yokoyama, chattering away to the former as they stuffed their faces with Koyama's delicious dinner. Yokoyama looked around the room carefully, taking in all of his surroundings. Tegoshi could understand why Yamashita chose to bring him along. Those sharp eyes would be useful to any warrior.
"I do hope we're not inconveniencing you terribly, your highness," Yamashita said as he buttered a piece of bread carefully.
"Not at all," Tegoshi replied. Refilling Yamashita's cup, he took the opportunity to observe the man again. Definitely attractive, with well-defined features and those piercing eyes. "You're welcome at the castle as long as you may need quarter," he continued.
Yamashita leaned back and leveled Tegoshi with an unblinking stare. "I'm glad to hear you say that, your highness." Casually picking at his plate, Yamashita continued. "The Queen of the Nymphs, Meisa, has sent me to demand your surrender."
Tegoshi felt his temper start to rise at the knight's words. "Queen" Meisa? His blood boiled at the very thought. "Apologies, Sir Yamashita, but you'll be going home empty-handed. There can only be one monarch of Kyoumatsu and that is me. I'm sorry, but I will not be surrendering to your false Queen."
Shige placed a calming hand on Tegoshi's arm and the Prince instantly felt some of the tension drain from him. It would be okay. They would make it okay.
Yamashita simply smiled and nodded. "As expected, your highness. But my men and I are willing to stay here as long as necessary to achieve our goal."
"As you wish," Tegoshi said, his voice tight. He half wished the battle would be played out on the field with swords. A battle of wills, he thought, would be much more difficult to traverse.
---
The days passed relatively smoothly and quickly with the Black Knight and his men in the castle. Akanishi and Yokoyama, who insisted on being called Jin and Yoko, respectively, made quick friends with Massu and Koyama, the chef. Nishikido, who had formally introduced himself to Shige as "Ryo, your future consort," hovered around Shige to the point of distraction and annoyance on the advisor's part.
Yamashita had taken it upon himself to learn about the castle and its people. Tegoshi had found him on more than one occasion reading in the library or chatting with one of the river dryads about the land's irrigation problems. The Prince didn't even think to be threatened by Yamashita's curiosity and constant presence. He'd proven to a friendly adversary, at least, enjoying meals with Tegoshi and his court and had even taken to sparring with him during fencing practice. Tegoshi was glad he'd finally found someone on his level to practice with. Shige was always too afraid he'd hurt someone (namely himself). Before he knew it, Tegoshi realized the knight and his companions had been at the castle for almost a month.
It was a sunny afternoon two weeks before the Peach Festival and Tegoshi's formal coronation that the Prince decided it was time for a snack. Hoping to sneak some fresh honey and bread from the kitchen, Tegoshi hurried down the stairs, stopping just short of the doorway when he heard voices and laughter.
"I'm telling you, the Queen is nuts."
"Yeah, but she's still the Queen of Nymphs, Jin."
"In title only, Yoko," came the sneering reply.
"Regardless, she could have you hanged."
Tegoshi dared to peek around the corner at the little gathering for just a moment. Jin, Massu and Yoko were seated at the long prep table, snacking on whatever was leftover from lunch. Koyama stood over the fire, stirring a pot of something that smelled sinfully delicious as always. Tegoshi pulled back, fearing being seen, but stayed for a moment, listening. Maybe he could uncover something that would help him, would help them in the long run.
"Hanged, schmanged," Jin said thickly though a piece of toast. "You know she only sent Pi on this trip to get him killed, right?"
"Pi?" Massu and Koyama asked in unison.
"Yamashita," Yoko replied, his voice tight. Tegoshi could imagine his frown so clearly, he had to stifle a laugh.
"Anyway, Pi's dad was a fairy, his mom was a nymph. I think Queen Crazy was hoping he'd come here, act like an idiot out for revenge or something and start her war," Jin concluded.
"Too much information, Jin," Yoko scolded. "I don't know if you've noticed, but we're still in enemy territory."
Jin's high pitched laughter echoed off the kitchen's high walls, soon mixed with Koyama's giggles and Massu's own guffaws.
"'Enemy territory,' Yoko? I'm with Prince Tegoshi," Jin said, tapping the table with his glass. "We're a country that needs uniting. There is no such thing as enemy territory anymore."
"So what does Yamashita's heritage have to do for your mission from the Queen?" Koyama asked.
The room was silent for so long, Tegoshi was tempted to look around the corner again, make sure they were all still breathing. Then Yokoyama continued.
"I don't know, Koyama. And honestly, that scares me."
Tegoshi sucked in a quiet breath and let it out slowly. What did that mean? If Yamashita was half-fairy, maybe his loyalties weren't quite so black and white after all. Content that he'd heard all he was going to (and definitely wasn't going to get his snack), Tegoshi hurried to his bedchamber and collapsed in a chair, thinking.
"Interesting," he breathed. "Very interesting indeed."
---
The Peach Festival and Tegoshi's coronation drew closer every passing day. Preparations for both had been laid out months, even years in advance, but it was not the ceremony or festival he was worried about. Yamashita and his men remained in the castle and showed no signs of wanting to leave. Massu had confessed to Tegoshi that he'd caught Ryo and Shige in the barn the week before. Doing what, neither of them dared guess.
Tegoshi had taken to a daily stroll through the peach groves. He found them oddly comforting. Something about the familiarity, the stability of the trees calmed him. They were home to him, from the sweet smell of ripe fruit to the prettiest new bud on a branch. One late afternoon, Tegoshi wandered from tree to tree, inspecting the flowers for any signs of decay or bugs, when he caught sight of Yamashita talking to a faun.
"Late spring, you say?" he was asking.
"Oh yes sir," the faun replied, smiling broadly. "By the time the first summer heat rolls in, it's too late, but mid-to-late spring is the best time for peaches."
"Fascinating," Yamashita replied. He shook the faun's hand and stood, brushing the dirt from his backside. Tegoshi stepped closer as he turned and greeted the Knight.
"Sir Knight," he nodded.
"Your Highness," Yamashita said, with equal sincerity.
They stared at each other for a moment before chuckling quietly. The last few weeks had found Tegoshi enjoying the Knight's company. He wondered if the feeling was, indeed, mutual.
"Walk with me, Yamashita," Tegoshi said, tilting his head toward the opposite end of the grove.
"Of course, your highness," Yamashita acquiesced.
"You can call me Tegoshi, you know."
"Alright, Tegoshi." Yamashita smiled, showing off that one little gap between his front teeth and Tegoshi couldn't help but smile back.
"Taking up gardening? Or simply being nosy about my peach orchards?" Tegoshi asked, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"Mostly nosiness," the Knight replied. "But partial pure curiosity. We don't have the soil to grow fruit trees in the Nymphland. The faun was helping me figure out if it was even possible or if I should simply implore you for a few dozen bushels of peaches before we go."
Tegoshi smiled sadly as he watched his feet. One step and then the next. "When exactly are you going, Yamashita?"
"You can call me Pi, if you'd like, your high- Tegoshi," Yamashita said, placing one hand on Tegoshi's arm and looking at him fondly.
"Very well," Tegoshi replied. He looked at Yamashita and asked again. "When exactly are you going, Pi?"
"When the job is done, I suppose."
"And when will that be?"
Silence stretched between them as they walked. They both knew the answer to the question, but neither wanted to say it. Yamashita's objective hadn't changed since he'd arrived at the castle. If anything, Tegoshi's familiarity with the Knight and his men may have made it easier for them. He tried not to think that they would all betray him so easily, but Tegoshi wasn't unprepared for such an instance.
The pair soon found themselves in the circle of cherry blossom trees. Tegoshi sighed happily, letting his eyes slide shut as he sat against the ground, his back firmly against one solid trunk.
"Beautiful," Yamashita said quietly.
"Isn't it?" Tegoshi opened his eyes to see Yamashita turning away quickly, his cheeks pink. He chose to ignore it for the moment. "It's my favorite place," Tegoshi continued, gesturing at the five ancient trees. "The soothsayer claims this is the most magical place in all of Kyoumatsu."
"I believe it," Yamashita replied. He settled himself against the next tree over, mirroring Tegoshi's stance.
The next few hours flew by as the pair sat beneath the cherry blossoms, discussing everything they could possibly think of - the weather, Koyama's cooking, the way Yokoyama was entirely too paranoid for his own good, the trees slowly releasing their flowers to the winds. Night was beginning to fall when they finally stood and moved back through the orchard, a comfortable silence between them. Something in Tegoshi still squirmed uncomfortably - a question he needed answered.
"Pi," he started, the nickname feeling awkward on his tongue. "Why, exactly, honestly, are you here?"
Yamashita stopped just outside the edge of the trees and, reaching up, plucked a large, ripe peach from a branch. He examined it for a moment, tossing it from one hand to the other before smiling at Tegoshi a bit sadly. "To dethrone you, of course."
Tegoshi huffed, annoyed. "Pi."
"Shige's heading to the barn again," Yamashita commented, buffing the peach against his shirtsleeve. "Your advisor could learn a few things about subtlety." He turned and walked toward the castle, leaving Tegoshi a bit shell-shocked behind him. The Prince hurried to catch up, reaching Yamashita's side just as he rolled the peach from one hand, across his broad shoulders, down the other arm and in a smooth arc to Tegoshi's waiting palm.
"Good catch, your highness," Yamashita said quietly.
Tegoshi looked down at his peach and smiled before taking a bite. Perfect.
---
His sparring partner feinted again, then spun away as Tegoshi advanced. They danced around each other in a circle, each trying to find a way in.
"May I have a shot at it?"
Tegoshi whipped around and, spotting Yamashita by the door, smiled broadly. "Pi," he said, still trying to get comfortable to the nickname. "Yeah, come on in."
Waiting patiently for Yamashita to get his own equipment ready, Tegoshi noticed something different about his opponent's stance.
"What's wrong?" he asked, tilting his head to the side.
"Nothing," Yamashita replied tersely. "Ready?"
They both took the sparring starting position and, at the signal, began circling each other, poking here and there to feel each other out. Tegoshi found himself enjoying sparring with Yamashita more than he expected - the Knight was light on his feet, intelligent, could obviously read his partner well. Tegoshi spun once, doing a quick number of jabs as he went, but not landing a single blow. Yamashita was good.
"Not too bad for a fairy," Yamashita remarked, something dark in his voice.
"Years of training and natural grace," Tegoshi replied. "I'd say you're not bad for a nymph, but I've seen better."
Yamashita scowled and parried Tegoshi's advance. The competition went back and forth for several minutes, the tension getting higher and higher as neither landed a blow. Tegoshi fought back a smile as he quick footed away from Yamashita's riposte to the opposite end of the circle.
"Running away?" Yamashita sneered. Tegoshi was surprised to see the expression upon his face.
"No, just trying not to get stabbed." Tegoshi paused, pointing his sabre to the floor to halt the fight. "Is everything okay with you? You seem kind of off today."
"I'm fine. Let's do this." Yamashita took his starting stance again and lunged before Tegoshi could compose himself.
"Hey!"
"You expect to defend your country when you can't even sense a fencing attack?" Yamashita's face had twisted into something dark. Tegoshi no longer saw his friend there, the person he'd come to trust and like over the last few weeks.
"Defending my country is nothing like beating a brute at a silly game," Tegoshi shot back.
Yamashita drew himself up to full height and lunged. "Brute? Hardly. At least I know how to fight," he said, knocking the base of Tegoshi's saber with the tip of his own. Tegoshi barely held on to it as he spun to block the next blow.
"I know very well how to fight," Tegoshi replied angrily. "I've spent my whole life training, learning how to protect Kyoumatsu. I've done nothing but try to keep our country, our land, our people together." He moved to sidestep another of Yamashita's advances. "And you've come in and completely capsized my life!"
The realization struck Tegoshi hard. Something had happened between them during their last few weeks together. Maybe the day in the cherry blossoms had been the final marker, but Tegoshi knew he couldn't let Yamashita leave. Not like this. Angry, he lunged again and finally landed a blow. Catching Yamashita's upper arm with the tip of his blade, Tegoshi pulled back in horror at the sight of blood flowing freely on the Knight's white shirt.
"I'm so sorry," he started, dropping his sabre and stepping forward. Before he knew what was happening, Tegoshi was flat on his back, Yamashita over him, panting hard, face still full of anger. "I'm sorry, Pi," Tegoshi repeated. "Let's get you to the nurse, come on."
"No," Yamashita growled. "I was sent here to kill you, Tegoshi. I could do it right now, end this war, and go home to my life."
Tegoshi's eyes went wide with shock. He should have known. He should have kept his guard up, but no, he'd spent weeks becoming friends with his enemy. Maybe something more. And now he was here going to run him through.
Yamashita rolled away, landing on his back next to Tegoshi and stared up at the bright spring sky. Tegoshi's shock paralyzed him for a moment before pushing himself up on one elbow.
"What-"
"My father was a fairy," Yamashita interrupted. "My father was a fairy and my mother was a nymph and when they died, I was put in the care of the Queen. She took me in, made me a page. I worked my way through the ranks until I became the greatest knight she had."
"I know," Tegoshi whispered.
"You know?" The shock in Yamashita's voice caused a chuckle to rise through Tegoshi, only to be forced back down as he nodded.
"I knew your father was a fairy," he replied. "I heard Jin talking about it a few days ago."
Yamashita sighed and closed his eyes. Reaching over, he put his hand against his wound. It was superficial, it seemed; the bleeding had all but stopped now.
"I'm tired of fighting," he said quietly. Opening his dark eyes, Yamashita looked at Tegoshi with such honesty, Tegoshi felt his heart break a little. "I just want peace."
Tegoshi, always probably a bit more impulsive than he should be, leaned down and kissed him, soft and sure. Pulling away, he saw the flicker of emotions across Yamashita's face - confusion, worry, and finally, happiness.
"Then help me build it."
---
Tegoshi, His Majesty the King of Kyoumatsu, was coronated on his 20th birthday, surrounded by friends, family, his most trusted of colleagues, and the one that meant the most to him. The Peach Festival that immediately followed was the most successful to date. The groves surrounding the castle bore more fruit that year than any other before or since. Koyama busied himself in the kitchens, creating new and delicious peach-themed dishes.
Shortly after his coronation, King Tegoshi received word that the false monarch, Queen Meisa, had been imprisoned by her own people and charged with insanity and treason. The country of Kyoumatsu heaved a collective sigh of relief and entered an era of peace and comfort for all.
---
Ten Years Later
Yamashita strolled through the castle one last time. His patrol for the night was over, to be taken over by his newly appointed knight, Yamada. The young nymph had a lot of potential and Yamashita was glad he'd chosen that path. Nodding to the various staff he encountered ending their days, Yamashita smiled to himself. After the fall of the False Queen, Kyoumatsu had become a land of peace and prosperity. Knights were all but unneeded anymore. But King Tegoshi had kept them all in his employ, demanding they maintain their training on the grounds that one just never knew when unexpected visitors would show up.
Arriving at his destination, Yamashita knocked twice on the solid oak door.
"Enter."
Coming into the warm, cozy room, Yamashita bolted the door behind him.
"My liege," he said, bowing to the room's only occupant.
"I thought I told you not to call me that," Tegoshi scowled, lying in bed, propped up by a dozen fluffy pillows.
Yamashita began removing his weapons, first the sabre, then the daggers, and stacked them in their usual place.
"I just like to see you scowl at me that way," Yamashita replied, moving to strip off his garments slowly.
"You really shouldn't treat your king with such disrespect, Sir Knight," Tegoshi sniffed.
Yamashita chuckled as he tugged off his stockings, finally naked as the day he was born. "You are not the king of this bedroom, Tegoshi," he replied, climbing into the giant bed and wrapping an arm around Tegoshi's waist.
Tegoshi resisted for a moment before melting into Yamashita's touch. "Are you going to try to overthrow me, Pi?" he teased, running a hand down Yamashita's strong arms. His fingers stopped at a scar, a decade old now.
"I prefer to think of this as an oligarchy," Yamashita replied as he hooked one strong hand around Tegoshi's hip. He was pleased to find his partner just as nude as he.
Tegoshi's fingers traced the lines of Yamashita's chest, his stomach, as if he'd forgotten them over the course of the day. Ten years of exploration and they had yet to get tired of each other. Yamashita enjoyed the way his little king pushed him, fought him at every turn with that arrogant smile before the court, but was so giving behind closed doors. He tugged Tegoshi closer, their erections sliding against each other. Yamashita groaned quietly at the feeling. He was sure he'd never tire of this. Gasping, Yamashita twitched slightly as Tegoshi's fingers encircled them both, stroking lightly.
Yamashita buried his face in Tegoshi's light brown hair, breathing deep the scents of his day - the musky sweetness of the peach groves mixed with the dust and age of the libraries. Without even asking, Yamashita could be sure Tegoshi had spent the day reading among the trees. He smiled, then gasped again as Tegoshi's hand slid over the head of his cock smoothly.
"Tego," he whispered, voice tight. Yamashita's hips started rolling with the movement of Tegoshi's hand, their cocks dragging against each other with the most delicious friction. He knew he wouldn't last long like this, he rarely did when Tegoshi's clever hands were at work.
"Pi," Tegoshi replied, just as quietly. "What would I do without my knight by my side?" His hand flew over their joined erections and Yamashita felt the tension building quickly in his abdomen.
Yamashita came with a shout, his seed spilling over Tegoshi's hand and stomach, slicking the space between them further. Tegoshi continued stroking Yamashita's sensitive cock against his own until finally, he came with a shudder and a sigh.
They both lay there for several moments, catching their breaths and kissing softly. Eventually, Yamashita rolled over and moistened the awaiting cloth before cleaning them both quickly. Tegoshi shivered against his touch, his cock still sensitive to the touch. Tossing the cloth away, Yamashita moved back to his place and drew Tegoshi against his chest. He dropped light kisses across the top of Tegoshi's head and sighed happily.
Later they would do this again, maybe fuck a little. He'd blow Tegoshi and they'd fall asleep in each other's arms. Tomorrow they would wake up and do it all over again - the meetings, the patrols, meals with their friends and advisors, before coming back to their shared chamber to love each other again and again. She was undoubtedly crazy, but Yamashita felt a strong sense of gratitude toward Queen Meisa. She had given him Tegoshi, perhaps not in the way she intended, but certainly in a much more pleasing than he'd anticipated. As Tegoshi dotted kisses across his broad chest, Yamashita sighed again. All was right with the world in Kyoumatsu and would be for a very long time.