[fic] Faith in Fate
Title: Faith in Fate
Author: yuuki22
Pairing: Akame
Summary: Two princes from different kingdom fell in love with each other, it was a forbidden love that symbolizes disgrace and shame to their kingdom, yet fate decided to play with their heart that would only lead them to fell in love with each other more. In the end, where would fate lead them?
True that I have a story that I need to finish first, however, this story just suddenly came into my mind and I have to make this. :P
The name of the disease is taken from a game called Persona3. It is one of the game that I really love :) really interested with this kind of story, so I hope those who read this story able to enjoy this as well.
Enjoy reading this failure and ugly story. I will appreciate any kind of comment all of you gave me.
Fate One: Where fate brought us to each other
Once upon a time, there are two kingdoms that were built in the Land of Calm, one of the kingdom is the Kingdom of Hearts, while the other one are the Kingdom of Shadow. The two kingdoms were ruled under the most powerful and the wisest man of all. The Kingdom of Hearts is ruled by King Tsubasa, while the Kingdom of Shadow ruled by King Tackey.
Both kings from the two kingdoms are best friend, and they remain as a best friend even when they already have a son who will become the next king. King Tsubasa’s child is now four years old, his name are Kazuya. King Tackey’s child is six years old, named Jin.
The two kings often visit each other to their kingdom and they would always bring their child so their child could play together. Both kings are aware how much Kazuya and Jin care for each other. Tackey and Tsubasa are glad for their child friendship, because the more closer the two of them become, the more the two kingdom will become closer as well.
However, something terrible had happened.
The kings wife has fallen ill due to a rare disease, they called it the Apathy Syndrome, it was a kind of disease that cause people remain unconscious for eternity. There was no cure for that disease, however, there is one big tree deep inside the Forbidden Forest on the mountain. It’s called the Mana Tree, it was rumored that the leaf of that tree could heal any kind of disease.
In order to save their wife, both king has ordered their soldier to take the leaf. However, the victim who got infected by the Apathy Syndrome has increase. In order to save their people, the two kingdoms have no choice but have to compete against each other to take all the leaf for their people. The first one who manages to arrive on that tree first has the right to take the leaf.
The soldiers that was send by both kingdom arrived on a same time, however, they have no found the Mana Tree anywhere inside the forest. The soldiers from both kingdom are angry because they also have their family who was infected by the disease, and so they take out all of their anger to fought against each other. Many blood and tears was shed by such a waste.
And since that incident, both the king no longer remain as a best friend, only hatred that was now remain in their heart.
Kazuya and Jin are really disappointed and really sad that they are no longer allowed to see each other.
But one day, both of them believe that there will come the day when they will meet again.
******
( Inside the Kingdom of Hearts, in the main hall of the castle )
“Kazuya, my son, please step forward”
King Tsubasa called out for his son Kazuya whose now has turned into 20. The now grown up prince step forward as what his father told and stood right in front of the king who raise from the chair and step forward to walk closer to his son.
“My son, Kazuya. The time for you to take the task to show your people the strength whether you have what it takes to become the future king or not has arrived. Let me ask you this, are you sure you will not withdraw from this task and promise will fulfill this task till the end?”
King Tsubasa said in a loud voice, enough to hear for the whole audience in the main hall, a smile form on his lips hearing the answer from Kazuya.
“I will and I promise, I shall not return until I manage to finish this task, Your Majesty”
The prince answered, a loud cheer from the audience sounded in the main hall as all of them are pried with the decision that their future king has chosen.
Straightening his body, Kazuya smile in satisfied as he turn to look at the audience and smile gently at them. He will not ever let his people down, he promised himself that he will be the one who make this Kingdom of Hearts back in a victorious glory.
And fulfilling this ask, is the first step to reach his dream.
“Kazuya, my son. I now shall give you the instruction for your task”
When he heard his father spoke, Kazuya turn around and face the king again. The whole audience immediately becomes silent as all of them were eager to hear what kind of the task that the king will gave for the prince.
“Your task is to found a star-shaped fruit called the Starlit Fruit deep inside the Forbidden Forest on the mountain. Bring me that fruit, and then you will finish your task”
Kazuya was surprised hearing the task that he shall take, as well as the audience who let out a small gasp from their lips. Kazuya still stay remain calm though before then he bow to his father.
“I will and shall bring that fruit to you, Your Majesty”
The audience cheer and clap their hands hearing the answer from the prince as they feel proud of him. Kazuya feel even more satisfied hearing how the audience cheer for him, because that means they have a big hope and rely on him.
After the ceremony finished, all the audience are banished from the castle and went to their own home. Kazuya who was standing in the main hall with arms folded in front his chest is surprised when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He then turn around, seeing his father stood behind him.
“Father”
“Are you ready?”
His father ask and Kazuya smile at him, nodding as an answer.
“Yes father, though I have a question…”
“What question?”
“That Starlit Fruit… does it really exist?”
Kazuya ask, he was still unconvinced whether that fruit is exist or not. Because this is the first time he have ever heard about such thing.
The king cannot help but feel amused at his son’s question, he then smile such in a gentle way to his son. Kazuya thought that he saw misery in the eyes of his father for a second.
“I want to believe it is”
Kazuya raised an eyebrow hearing this. He did not understand what his father are saying, but he remain silent as the king continue to spoke.
“You know… it’s your mother who told me about this fruit”
Now Kazuya understand the reason for the misery that he saw in his father’s eyes earlier, he is aware that his father will always become sadden whenever it was something about the woman who become the king’s wife and his mother.
Kazuya also missed her.
Smiling a bit, Kazuya asked his father then.
“What did mother told you about this fruit?”
Hearing the question, King Tsubasa turn to face his son and ruffle Kazuya’s hair.
“She said that there is this tree with this star-shaped fruit deep inside that forest, it says that those who eats that fruit and make a wish, your wish will come true. What a fantasy, isn’t it?”
The king let out a small laugh from his lips, and Kazuya cannot help but smile seeing that. It was such a fantasy of course, if there is really such a fruit that able to grant any wishes, mankind will never shown an effort and will only rely on that fruit.
But those fruit, even if it not even exist, it must be contain memory for his father and his mother. If he will be able to saw his father smile of it as a return, if he able to make his father proud, he will find that fruit with all of his effort.
“So, it’s like a magic fruit?”
Kazuya asked, seeing how the king smile to his question. The king then nodded.
“Don’t worry, I will bring that fruit to you father”
The king remain silent hearing that from his son, then he opened his mouth to speak.
“What if that fruit does not exist?”
“I believe it does exist. I believe of what my mother told me, and I will not return until I found that fruit”
King Tsubasa was surprised hearing the answer coming from his son, he cannot believe such a strong-willed and stubborn person Kazuya is. But he is satisfied, because this mean, Kazuya might be actually able and would be better for him to take his position in the future.
“Thank you, and I shall hold on to your words and wait for your return. Please be save”
“I will”
Kazuya smile and nodded to his father before he walk away to his room, picking up the bag that he has prepared with such medicine and foods inside it for his travelling. He believe that this task will take such a long time for him to finish it.
Kazuya then walked out of his room, almost jumping in surprise when he heard voice coming from behind.
“Are you going to leave right now Your Highness?”
Kazuya turn around then, glaring a bit the person behind him.
“Ryo, please don’t startle me like that”
The man with a black hair smile at Kazuya and bow.
“My apologies Your Highness”
Kazuya sigh hearing how Ryo speak to him so formally. Ryo, full name Nishikido Ryo is a man who ten years ago was found unconscious by the soldiers on patrol in the territory of the Kingdom of Hearts. The soldiers brought Ryo to the castle and seeing a vulnerable kid who was left alone without a family, King Tsubasa did not have the heart to kick him out of the kingdom. King Tsubasa then took Ryo to work in the castle as Kazuya’s personal servant.
However, never once Kazuya treat Ryo as a servant. Instead, Kazuya will always play with Ryo and never look at Ryo as his servant, he look at Ryo more as his best friend until now.
“Ryo, I told you not to speak formally with me when we’re alone”
Kazuya said as he crossed his arms in front of his chest. The lips on Ryo’s face turn into a small but mischievous smile.
“Alone? Oh, did you have something dirty on your mind Kazuya?”
“Wha-?! You idiot! That is not what I meant!”
The prince hit Ryo’s shoulder with his fist who hiss in pain then, though his smile did not leave from his face.
“Sorry, it’s just a joke”
“What a dirty joke”
Hearing the comeback from Kazuya, Ryo laugh in amusement. Though Kazuya is a prince and Ryo is his servant, Ryo still love to tease Kazuya, teasing the prince has become his favorite after all.
“Are you going to leave right now?”
Ryo asked and change the subject. He saw the prince shook his head, letting out a small smile then before he answer.
“No, I will see my mother first”
The servant saw how the look in the prince’s eyes has changed, so he say nothing. He has nothing to say in a time like this.
“I’ll accompany you”
Ryo said, earning a look of surprised from Kazuya, but then the prince smile and nodded as answer before he walked to his mother room with Ryo accompany him.
Kazuya know Ryo the best, sometime the black hair man could be really shy that he never said what he really felt. But Kazuya knew Ryo is the nicest person of all, just like now, he knew Ryo insist of accompanying him because Kazuya knew that Ryo only want to make sure that he will not cry while seeing his mother.
And he of course, happy having Ryo as his best friend.
******
Kazuya and Ryo stood in front of the door with two guards guarding it. The prince give them an order to step aside so they would let them in. The guards of course obeyed what the prince ordered them and step aside, opening the door to both the prince and the servant.
Kazuya and Ryo step inside the queen’s chamber before Ryo close the door, just to make sure that there would be no one hear a word of what Kazuya had to say. Of course, he himself are different cases, Ryo are his best friend.
The prince stare at the figure of a woman lie down in the bed in front of him, he let his eyes wandering around the body and sigh. How restless, not a single move coming from the figure.
Kazuya walk closer to the bed and kneel down in front of it, smiling at the figure of his mother remain unconscious on the bed. The prince hold one of the queen’s hand with his as he spoke.
“Mother, the day has come for me to finished the task for every future king will do”
With a gentle tone in his voice, the prince remain spoke with a smile on his face, eyes never leave the face of his mother who had her eyes remain closed. Kazuya stroke the back of the queen’s hand with his thumb, hoping for her to at least react to his touch.
“Mother, please wish me luck. I crossed my heart, the time when I return home, I will complete the task so father will see my potential as a real future king”
Yes. The only wishes that Kazuya have right now is so his father could see him as the future king and will entrust him the future of this kingdom. He wanted to help his people who are in need for help, he wanted to find the cause f the Apathy Syndrome, as well as the cure for it.
And if it even more possible, he wanted to make this kingdom back on alliance with the Kingdom of Shadow.
The war that happened 16 years ago, he believe it was an incident that’s not supposed to happen. That incident only happen because people were blinded by anger of unable to do anything to save the one they loves who infected by the Apathy Syndrome. That goes for his father and the king of the Kingdom of Shadow as well.
Both king were blinded by anger because they couldn’t save their wife.
And Kazuya believe, there would be a day when both kingdom will become one again.
The prince took out a necklace with a half star-shape from his pocket, smiling at the thing as he hold on it tightly.
“What is that thing?”
Ryo who saw the necklace asked the prince, Kazuya however gave him an answer that is difficult to understand.
“It’s a part of my memory”
“Huh?”
The prince chuckle seeing the confuse look in the face of the servant. Kazuya then shook his head, smiling as he stood up.
“It’s nothing, forget what I said”
“Huh, if you say so…”
“Ryo, could you please prepare a horse for me?”
“Oh, you will leave right now?”
“Yes, it is time”
“Are you sure you don’t need me to accompany you?”
Kazuya smile hearing the question. He knew that Ryo is really worried about him, however he cannot take Ryo with him, this task is something that he has to do by himself.
“You know I cannot do that Ryo”
Ryo sigh hearing that before he replied.
“But the only weapon you’re going to take to defend yourself is a bow only. A long-range attack is really useful, however with such weapon it’s hard to defend yourself with it when the enemy get close to attack you”
Kazuya listen of what Ryo said intently, he knew what his best friend told him is true. Kazuya is never good at sword and such thing, the only weapon he is skillful at is bow, and short-range attack is his weakness. That is why whenever he is on mission or travelling on somewhere, Ryo who use sword as weapon is really useful for his assistance.
One could say that Ryo is the most skillful swordsman after his father in this kingdom, and his skill for arrange strategy is what makes him the captain of all soldiers. Having Ryo to assist him on this mission is really handful, but Kazuya want to- no, he have to do this alone.
“I know Ryo, but please let me do this by myself. For my people, and for the future of this kingdom as well, I only need your trust for me in order to help completing this mission. So please…”
Ryo sigh, the prince is such a persistent person, he knew that. He just felt worried, what fear him the most is to have something happen to the prince. But there’s nothing that he could do but pray for Kazuya’s safety now, the prince doing this for the future of this kingdom.
That’s probably what he like about the prince the most, Kazuya is someone who care about the people of this kingdom the most.
Ryo knew that Kazuya’s kindness is way every people have.
“Alright, but careful”
Kazuya smile hearing the answer coming from Ryo. Knowing that he have his best friend’s trust gave him strength, and he’s more than satisfied.
“Thank you, Ryo”
******
( Inside the Kingdom of Shadow, inside a room )
Meanwhile, another prince from the different kingdom was sitting on top of the king-size bed while holding a half star-shape necklace in his hand. The said prince then lie back on the bed, he then took out a piece of photo under the pillow.
The said prince let his eyes lock on the picture of a two child holding each other hands. The corner of his lips are raised into a small smile.
When a knock was heard from the outside of the door, the prince then straighten up into a sitting position and hide the picture back under the pillow before he order to let the person to come inside.
“Come in”
When the door open, revealing a man with a hair in color of brown almost the same as his, the prince then sigh.
“Geez, it’s just you Yamapi”
The man said Yamapi, full name is Tomohisa Yamashita smile at the prince.
“My, is something the matter Prince Jin? Did I disturb of your precious time to masturbating?”
The moment that question finished, a pillow was thrown in the face of Tomohisa right away. Tomohisa laugh then when he saw the prince glare at him.
“Such an absurd servant you are”
“Sorry, it’s just a joke”
The prince named Jin rolled his eyes before he gave his servant, as well as his best friend a question.
“So, what business do you have here Pi?”
“Well, I just want to say I have prepare your weapon and your horse”
The prince then smile, standing up as he took his bag inside the drawer that he had prepare last night. Jin then turn to his best friend and say his thanks to Tomohisa.
“Thanks Pi”
The servant only smile and nodded in return. His eyes then caught something in the prince hand that he cannot help but asked as he was curious of it.
“What is that on your hand?”
Jin look at Tomohisa who gave him a question before he look at the necklace in his hand. He smile a bit, caressing the necklace with his thumb.
“It’s… something very important to me”
Tomohisa stay silent hearing that from the prince. This is the first time he ever saw that necklace, and judging from the way the prince look at it, he knew that necklace hold something very important for his best friend. If Jin will not tell him, then he won’t ask.
A knock on the door is what makes the prince and the servant turn to look at the door. When the door opened, both of them was quote surprised seeing the king of the Kingdom of Shadow step inside Jin’s room.
“Your Majesty”
Tomohisa bow at the arrival of the king, while the prince simply stood there with his eyes never leave the figure of his father who walk closer to him.
“Jin, I heard that you’re going on your first travelling”
The king spoke to his son, receiving a nod as answer from the prince as the prince replied.
“Well, it’s sort of like that, but it’s not really can be called as travelling. I just want to look around that place”
“I see, I heard that you’re going alone. Are you sure you do not need Yamashita’s assistance?”
“Oh come on, I’m more skillful with sword than Yamapi does”
This might can be called a bit overconfident, or arrogant to be exact. However what he spoke earlier are the truth. In this kingdom, the prince is the best skillful swordsman and every people knows it. That is why Jin is the captain of the soldiers. Tomohisa of course is also a great at combat, but Jin are still more skillful than him, and that is why Tomohisa are the 1st class soldier, nonetheless, one of the best soldiers of all.
“Do not let yourself become arrogant Jin, even the captain of the soldiers could be lose sometime”
The prince pouted that he was getting lectured b his father, while Tomohisa just smile in amusement. He knew how overconfident Jin is when it comes to his combat, but he agreed, Jin is better than him.
Tomohisa also knew better than anyone else that Jin could be really strong-will. Once the prince had set his mind on something, he will never give up on it until he finally manage to do it. Giving up is something that never exist in Jin’s dictionary that is.
And he likes Jin for the way he is. He was happy to be the one who become Jin’s best friend.
“Sorry… I don’t mean to be arrogant. I just want you to believe in me father. I am after all, the future king of this kingdom. Travelling alone is also one of my way to see how strong I really am without anyone assist me when I am in combat”
The prince reason, earning a small smile and a pat in the head from King Tackey.
“I am proud of you my son, however, strength alone is not enough to become a real king. In order to gain trust from your people, strength alone are not enough”
The prince raise an eyebrow hearing this. Isn’t it to be a wise and a strong king like his father you need strength? After all, his father has told him to become a strong person if you want to become a king. That is why he do not understand what else is there need to have in order to become a king.
“What else then I need to have to become a true king?”
Jin asked his father, hoping for an answer. That is why he was a bit disappoint when his father did not answer his question.
“You know soon enough”
“Eh? Why? I want to know”
“Jin, you have a long way to go through to become a king. And I believe in you that you will found the answer on your way. It is something that you have to found it by yourself, because finding the answer is also finding a part of your hidden self”
The king answer makes Jin utter another words. A small smile form on his lips as he look up at his father. The prince is really proud having someone like King Tackey as his father, a wise man indeed. One of Jin’s dreams is to become a king that can be trusted by his people and able to make his people happy, just like his father is.
His other dream is to make both the Kingdom of Shadow and the Kingdom of Hears to become one again. He has to somehow manage to do that one day.
Because he wanted to see him again.
“Will you say your farewell to you mother Jin?”
Jin looked up when heard his father gave him that question. He nodded and smile at his father.
“I will, but please leave me and mother alone. I need to talk to her alone”
******
Jin stood in front of the figure of his mother who lie down in a bed, eyes closed. Flowers were placed around her body, giving a smell of a fragrance. The prince then kneel down in front of the bed, eyes never leave the face of his mother who was in a deep slumber.
“Hi mother, how are you?”
Jin spoke to his mother, if one will see this scene, they will think of him someone crazy. But he do not care about that, talking to his mother so naturally just like has become a habit of his.
He really missed his mother. Since the day Jin’s mother fell into a deep slumber because of the Apathy Syndrome, he never stop on wishing that his mother would wake up someday, as well as the people who got infected by the Apathy Syndrome.
“Today I will go on my first travelling by myself mother. That is why I came to see you, hoping for you to wish me luck”
The prince continue to speak, this time he took a hold of his mother hand.
“I really wish that leaf really exist, that way… I could see your smiling face again”
True, that leaf, that Mana Leaf that was rumored it could heal any kind of disease. Jin really wished that leaf is really exist, just so he could see his mother smiling at him again, he of course, also wanted to see the happy faces of his people who have someone they love got infected by the Apathy Syndrome finally healed.
That war against the soldier of the Kingdom of Hearts, it should have never happened back then. He really hate that war, because of it, both kingdom now are completely drifted apart and become an enemy when both king are best friend in the first place.
And because of that war, many people has suffered. Because of that war, till now he is unable to see him again.
“Well, I shall take my leave. I’ll see you again when I came back mother”
With a last smile, the prince then stood up and leaves his mother room. He was then greeted by the sight of his best friend and his father standing in front of the door, waiting for his return.
“Have you finished talking?”
King Tackey asked. The prince smile at his father as he answer.
“I am, I’m feeling greater now”
The king and Tomohisa cannot help but smile seeing the happy and satisfied smile on Jin’s face. The king then remembers something that he has not yet ask his son where the destination that he will is went to.
“Oh, that’s remind me. I haven’t know where you’ll be going to Jin. Where are you heading?”
Jin smile before then he gave his father an answer.
“The Forbidden Forest”
O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O
To be continue
Author: yuuki22
Pairing: Akame
Summary: Two princes from different kingdom fell in love with each other, it was a forbidden love that symbolizes disgrace and shame to their kingdom, yet fate decided to play with their heart that would only lead them to fell in love with each other more. In the end, where would fate lead them?
True that I have a story that I need to finish first, however, this story just suddenly came into my mind and I have to make this. :P
The name of the disease is taken from a game called Persona3. It is one of the game that I really love :) really interested with this kind of story, so I hope those who read this story able to enjoy this as well.
Enjoy reading this failure and ugly story. I will appreciate any kind of comment all of you gave me.
Fate One: Where fate brought us to each other
Once upon a time, there are two kingdoms that were built in the Land of Calm, one of the kingdom is the Kingdom of Hearts, while the other one are the Kingdom of Shadow. The two kingdoms were ruled under the most powerful and the wisest man of all. The Kingdom of Hearts is ruled by King Tsubasa, while the Kingdom of Shadow ruled by King Tackey.
Both kings from the two kingdoms are best friend, and they remain as a best friend even when they already have a son who will become the next king. King Tsubasa’s child is now four years old, his name are Kazuya. King Tackey’s child is six years old, named Jin.
The two kings often visit each other to their kingdom and they would always bring their child so their child could play together. Both kings are aware how much Kazuya and Jin care for each other. Tackey and Tsubasa are glad for their child friendship, because the more closer the two of them become, the more the two kingdom will become closer as well.
However, something terrible had happened.
The kings wife has fallen ill due to a rare disease, they called it the Apathy Syndrome, it was a kind of disease that cause people remain unconscious for eternity. There was no cure for that disease, however, there is one big tree deep inside the Forbidden Forest on the mountain. It’s called the Mana Tree, it was rumored that the leaf of that tree could heal any kind of disease.
In order to save their wife, both king has ordered their soldier to take the leaf. However, the victim who got infected by the Apathy Syndrome has increase. In order to save their people, the two kingdoms have no choice but have to compete against each other to take all the leaf for their people. The first one who manages to arrive on that tree first has the right to take the leaf.
The soldiers that was send by both kingdom arrived on a same time, however, they have no found the Mana Tree anywhere inside the forest. The soldiers from both kingdom are angry because they also have their family who was infected by the disease, and so they take out all of their anger to fought against each other. Many blood and tears was shed by such a waste.
And since that incident, both the king no longer remain as a best friend, only hatred that was now remain in their heart.
Kazuya and Jin are really disappointed and really sad that they are no longer allowed to see each other.
But one day, both of them believe that there will come the day when they will meet again.
******
( Inside the Kingdom of Hearts, in the main hall of the castle )
“Kazuya, my son, please step forward”
King Tsubasa called out for his son Kazuya whose now has turned into 20. The now grown up prince step forward as what his father told and stood right in front of the king who raise from the chair and step forward to walk closer to his son.
“My son, Kazuya. The time for you to take the task to show your people the strength whether you have what it takes to become the future king or not has arrived. Let me ask you this, are you sure you will not withdraw from this task and promise will fulfill this task till the end?”
King Tsubasa said in a loud voice, enough to hear for the whole audience in the main hall, a smile form on his lips hearing the answer from Kazuya.
“I will and I promise, I shall not return until I manage to finish this task, Your Majesty”
The prince answered, a loud cheer from the audience sounded in the main hall as all of them are pried with the decision that their future king has chosen.
Straightening his body, Kazuya smile in satisfied as he turn to look at the audience and smile gently at them. He will not ever let his people down, he promised himself that he will be the one who make this Kingdom of Hearts back in a victorious glory.
And fulfilling this ask, is the first step to reach his dream.
“Kazuya, my son. I now shall give you the instruction for your task”
When he heard his father spoke, Kazuya turn around and face the king again. The whole audience immediately becomes silent as all of them were eager to hear what kind of the task that the king will gave for the prince.
“Your task is to found a star-shaped fruit called the Starlit Fruit deep inside the Forbidden Forest on the mountain. Bring me that fruit, and then you will finish your task”
Kazuya was surprised hearing the task that he shall take, as well as the audience who let out a small gasp from their lips. Kazuya still stay remain calm though before then he bow to his father.
“I will and shall bring that fruit to you, Your Majesty”
The audience cheer and clap their hands hearing the answer from the prince as they feel proud of him. Kazuya feel even more satisfied hearing how the audience cheer for him, because that means they have a big hope and rely on him.
After the ceremony finished, all the audience are banished from the castle and went to their own home. Kazuya who was standing in the main hall with arms folded in front his chest is surprised when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He then turn around, seeing his father stood behind him.
“Father”
“Are you ready?”
His father ask and Kazuya smile at him, nodding as an answer.
“Yes father, though I have a question…”
“What question?”
“That Starlit Fruit… does it really exist?”
Kazuya ask, he was still unconvinced whether that fruit is exist or not. Because this is the first time he have ever heard about such thing.
The king cannot help but feel amused at his son’s question, he then smile such in a gentle way to his son. Kazuya thought that he saw misery in the eyes of his father for a second.
“I want to believe it is”
Kazuya raised an eyebrow hearing this. He did not understand what his father are saying, but he remain silent as the king continue to spoke.
“You know… it’s your mother who told me about this fruit”
Now Kazuya understand the reason for the misery that he saw in his father’s eyes earlier, he is aware that his father will always become sadden whenever it was something about the woman who become the king’s wife and his mother.
Kazuya also missed her.
Smiling a bit, Kazuya asked his father then.
“What did mother told you about this fruit?”
Hearing the question, King Tsubasa turn to face his son and ruffle Kazuya’s hair.
“She said that there is this tree with this star-shaped fruit deep inside that forest, it says that those who eats that fruit and make a wish, your wish will come true. What a fantasy, isn’t it?”
The king let out a small laugh from his lips, and Kazuya cannot help but smile seeing that. It was such a fantasy of course, if there is really such a fruit that able to grant any wishes, mankind will never shown an effort and will only rely on that fruit.
But those fruit, even if it not even exist, it must be contain memory for his father and his mother. If he will be able to saw his father smile of it as a return, if he able to make his father proud, he will find that fruit with all of his effort.
“So, it’s like a magic fruit?”
Kazuya asked, seeing how the king smile to his question. The king then nodded.
“Don’t worry, I will bring that fruit to you father”
The king remain silent hearing that from his son, then he opened his mouth to speak.
“What if that fruit does not exist?”
“I believe it does exist. I believe of what my mother told me, and I will not return until I found that fruit”
King Tsubasa was surprised hearing the answer coming from his son, he cannot believe such a strong-willed and stubborn person Kazuya is. But he is satisfied, because this mean, Kazuya might be actually able and would be better for him to take his position in the future.
“Thank you, and I shall hold on to your words and wait for your return. Please be save”
“I will”
Kazuya smile and nodded to his father before he walk away to his room, picking up the bag that he has prepared with such medicine and foods inside it for his travelling. He believe that this task will take such a long time for him to finish it.
Kazuya then walked out of his room, almost jumping in surprise when he heard voice coming from behind.
“Are you going to leave right now Your Highness?”
Kazuya turn around then, glaring a bit the person behind him.
“Ryo, please don’t startle me like that”
The man with a black hair smile at Kazuya and bow.
“My apologies Your Highness”
Kazuya sigh hearing how Ryo speak to him so formally. Ryo, full name Nishikido Ryo is a man who ten years ago was found unconscious by the soldiers on patrol in the territory of the Kingdom of Hearts. The soldiers brought Ryo to the castle and seeing a vulnerable kid who was left alone without a family, King Tsubasa did not have the heart to kick him out of the kingdom. King Tsubasa then took Ryo to work in the castle as Kazuya’s personal servant.
However, never once Kazuya treat Ryo as a servant. Instead, Kazuya will always play with Ryo and never look at Ryo as his servant, he look at Ryo more as his best friend until now.
“Ryo, I told you not to speak formally with me when we’re alone”
Kazuya said as he crossed his arms in front of his chest. The lips on Ryo’s face turn into a small but mischievous smile.
“Alone? Oh, did you have something dirty on your mind Kazuya?”
“Wha-?! You idiot! That is not what I meant!”
The prince hit Ryo’s shoulder with his fist who hiss in pain then, though his smile did not leave from his face.
“Sorry, it’s just a joke”
“What a dirty joke”
Hearing the comeback from Kazuya, Ryo laugh in amusement. Though Kazuya is a prince and Ryo is his servant, Ryo still love to tease Kazuya, teasing the prince has become his favorite after all.
“Are you going to leave right now?”
Ryo asked and change the subject. He saw the prince shook his head, letting out a small smile then before he answer.
“No, I will see my mother first”
The servant saw how the look in the prince’s eyes has changed, so he say nothing. He has nothing to say in a time like this.
“I’ll accompany you”
Ryo said, earning a look of surprised from Kazuya, but then the prince smile and nodded as answer before he walked to his mother room with Ryo accompany him.
Kazuya know Ryo the best, sometime the black hair man could be really shy that he never said what he really felt. But Kazuya knew Ryo is the nicest person of all, just like now, he knew Ryo insist of accompanying him because Kazuya knew that Ryo only want to make sure that he will not cry while seeing his mother.
And he of course, happy having Ryo as his best friend.
******
Kazuya and Ryo stood in front of the door with two guards guarding it. The prince give them an order to step aside so they would let them in. The guards of course obeyed what the prince ordered them and step aside, opening the door to both the prince and the servant.
Kazuya and Ryo step inside the queen’s chamber before Ryo close the door, just to make sure that there would be no one hear a word of what Kazuya had to say. Of course, he himself are different cases, Ryo are his best friend.
The prince stare at the figure of a woman lie down in the bed in front of him, he let his eyes wandering around the body and sigh. How restless, not a single move coming from the figure.
Kazuya walk closer to the bed and kneel down in front of it, smiling at the figure of his mother remain unconscious on the bed. The prince hold one of the queen’s hand with his as he spoke.
“Mother, the day has come for me to finished the task for every future king will do”
With a gentle tone in his voice, the prince remain spoke with a smile on his face, eyes never leave the face of his mother who had her eyes remain closed. Kazuya stroke the back of the queen’s hand with his thumb, hoping for her to at least react to his touch.
“Mother, please wish me luck. I crossed my heart, the time when I return home, I will complete the task so father will see my potential as a real future king”
Yes. The only wishes that Kazuya have right now is so his father could see him as the future king and will entrust him the future of this kingdom. He wanted to help his people who are in need for help, he wanted to find the cause f the Apathy Syndrome, as well as the cure for it.
And if it even more possible, he wanted to make this kingdom back on alliance with the Kingdom of Shadow.
The war that happened 16 years ago, he believe it was an incident that’s not supposed to happen. That incident only happen because people were blinded by anger of unable to do anything to save the one they loves who infected by the Apathy Syndrome. That goes for his father and the king of the Kingdom of Shadow as well.
Both king were blinded by anger because they couldn’t save their wife.
And Kazuya believe, there would be a day when both kingdom will become one again.
The prince took out a necklace with a half star-shape from his pocket, smiling at the thing as he hold on it tightly.
“What is that thing?”
Ryo who saw the necklace asked the prince, Kazuya however gave him an answer that is difficult to understand.
“It’s a part of my memory”
“Huh?”
The prince chuckle seeing the confuse look in the face of the servant. Kazuya then shook his head, smiling as he stood up.
“It’s nothing, forget what I said”
“Huh, if you say so…”
“Ryo, could you please prepare a horse for me?”
“Oh, you will leave right now?”
“Yes, it is time”
“Are you sure you don’t need me to accompany you?”
Kazuya smile hearing the question. He knew that Ryo is really worried about him, however he cannot take Ryo with him, this task is something that he has to do by himself.
“You know I cannot do that Ryo”
Ryo sigh hearing that before he replied.
“But the only weapon you’re going to take to defend yourself is a bow only. A long-range attack is really useful, however with such weapon it’s hard to defend yourself with it when the enemy get close to attack you”
Kazuya listen of what Ryo said intently, he knew what his best friend told him is true. Kazuya is never good at sword and such thing, the only weapon he is skillful at is bow, and short-range attack is his weakness. That is why whenever he is on mission or travelling on somewhere, Ryo who use sword as weapon is really useful for his assistance.
One could say that Ryo is the most skillful swordsman after his father in this kingdom, and his skill for arrange strategy is what makes him the captain of all soldiers. Having Ryo to assist him on this mission is really handful, but Kazuya want to- no, he have to do this alone.
“I know Ryo, but please let me do this by myself. For my people, and for the future of this kingdom as well, I only need your trust for me in order to help completing this mission. So please…”
Ryo sigh, the prince is such a persistent person, he knew that. He just felt worried, what fear him the most is to have something happen to the prince. But there’s nothing that he could do but pray for Kazuya’s safety now, the prince doing this for the future of this kingdom.
That’s probably what he like about the prince the most, Kazuya is someone who care about the people of this kingdom the most.
Ryo knew that Kazuya’s kindness is way every people have.
“Alright, but careful”
Kazuya smile hearing the answer coming from Ryo. Knowing that he have his best friend’s trust gave him strength, and he’s more than satisfied.
“Thank you, Ryo”
******
( Inside the Kingdom of Shadow, inside a room )
Meanwhile, another prince from the different kingdom was sitting on top of the king-size bed while holding a half star-shape necklace in his hand. The said prince then lie back on the bed, he then took out a piece of photo under the pillow.
The said prince let his eyes lock on the picture of a two child holding each other hands. The corner of his lips are raised into a small smile.
When a knock was heard from the outside of the door, the prince then straighten up into a sitting position and hide the picture back under the pillow before he order to let the person to come inside.
“Come in”
When the door open, revealing a man with a hair in color of brown almost the same as his, the prince then sigh.
“Geez, it’s just you Yamapi”
The man said Yamapi, full name is Tomohisa Yamashita smile at the prince.
“My, is something the matter Prince Jin? Did I disturb of your precious time to masturbating?”
The moment that question finished, a pillow was thrown in the face of Tomohisa right away. Tomohisa laugh then when he saw the prince glare at him.
“Such an absurd servant you are”
“Sorry, it’s just a joke”
The prince named Jin rolled his eyes before he gave his servant, as well as his best friend a question.
“So, what business do you have here Pi?”
“Well, I just want to say I have prepare your weapon and your horse”
The prince then smile, standing up as he took his bag inside the drawer that he had prepare last night. Jin then turn to his best friend and say his thanks to Tomohisa.
“Thanks Pi”
The servant only smile and nodded in return. His eyes then caught something in the prince hand that he cannot help but asked as he was curious of it.
“What is that on your hand?”
Jin look at Tomohisa who gave him a question before he look at the necklace in his hand. He smile a bit, caressing the necklace with his thumb.
“It’s… something very important to me”
Tomohisa stay silent hearing that from the prince. This is the first time he ever saw that necklace, and judging from the way the prince look at it, he knew that necklace hold something very important for his best friend. If Jin will not tell him, then he won’t ask.
A knock on the door is what makes the prince and the servant turn to look at the door. When the door opened, both of them was quote surprised seeing the king of the Kingdom of Shadow step inside Jin’s room.
“Your Majesty”
Tomohisa bow at the arrival of the king, while the prince simply stood there with his eyes never leave the figure of his father who walk closer to him.
“Jin, I heard that you’re going on your first travelling”
The king spoke to his son, receiving a nod as answer from the prince as the prince replied.
“Well, it’s sort of like that, but it’s not really can be called as travelling. I just want to look around that place”
“I see, I heard that you’re going alone. Are you sure you do not need Yamashita’s assistance?”
“Oh come on, I’m more skillful with sword than Yamapi does”
This might can be called a bit overconfident, or arrogant to be exact. However what he spoke earlier are the truth. In this kingdom, the prince is the best skillful swordsman and every people knows it. That is why Jin is the captain of the soldiers. Tomohisa of course is also a great at combat, but Jin are still more skillful than him, and that is why Tomohisa are the 1st class soldier, nonetheless, one of the best soldiers of all.
“Do not let yourself become arrogant Jin, even the captain of the soldiers could be lose sometime”
The prince pouted that he was getting lectured b his father, while Tomohisa just smile in amusement. He knew how overconfident Jin is when it comes to his combat, but he agreed, Jin is better than him.
Tomohisa also knew better than anyone else that Jin could be really strong-will. Once the prince had set his mind on something, he will never give up on it until he finally manage to do it. Giving up is something that never exist in Jin’s dictionary that is.
And he likes Jin for the way he is. He was happy to be the one who become Jin’s best friend.
“Sorry… I don’t mean to be arrogant. I just want you to believe in me father. I am after all, the future king of this kingdom. Travelling alone is also one of my way to see how strong I really am without anyone assist me when I am in combat”
The prince reason, earning a small smile and a pat in the head from King Tackey.
“I am proud of you my son, however, strength alone is not enough to become a real king. In order to gain trust from your people, strength alone are not enough”
The prince raise an eyebrow hearing this. Isn’t it to be a wise and a strong king like his father you need strength? After all, his father has told him to become a strong person if you want to become a king. That is why he do not understand what else is there need to have in order to become a king.
“What else then I need to have to become a true king?”
Jin asked his father, hoping for an answer. That is why he was a bit disappoint when his father did not answer his question.
“You know soon enough”
“Eh? Why? I want to know”
“Jin, you have a long way to go through to become a king. And I believe in you that you will found the answer on your way. It is something that you have to found it by yourself, because finding the answer is also finding a part of your hidden self”
The king answer makes Jin utter another words. A small smile form on his lips as he look up at his father. The prince is really proud having someone like King Tackey as his father, a wise man indeed. One of Jin’s dreams is to become a king that can be trusted by his people and able to make his people happy, just like his father is.
His other dream is to make both the Kingdom of Shadow and the Kingdom of Hears to become one again. He has to somehow manage to do that one day.
Because he wanted to see him again.
“Will you say your farewell to you mother Jin?”
Jin looked up when heard his father gave him that question. He nodded and smile at his father.
“I will, but please leave me and mother alone. I need to talk to her alone”
******
Jin stood in front of the figure of his mother who lie down in a bed, eyes closed. Flowers were placed around her body, giving a smell of a fragrance. The prince then kneel down in front of the bed, eyes never leave the face of his mother who was in a deep slumber.
“Hi mother, how are you?”
Jin spoke to his mother, if one will see this scene, they will think of him someone crazy. But he do not care about that, talking to his mother so naturally just like has become a habit of his.
He really missed his mother. Since the day Jin’s mother fell into a deep slumber because of the Apathy Syndrome, he never stop on wishing that his mother would wake up someday, as well as the people who got infected by the Apathy Syndrome.
“Today I will go on my first travelling by myself mother. That is why I came to see you, hoping for you to wish me luck”
The prince continue to speak, this time he took a hold of his mother hand.
“I really wish that leaf really exist, that way… I could see your smiling face again”
True, that leaf, that Mana Leaf that was rumored it could heal any kind of disease. Jin really wished that leaf is really exist, just so he could see his mother smiling at him again, he of course, also wanted to see the happy faces of his people who have someone they love got infected by the Apathy Syndrome finally healed.
That war against the soldier of the Kingdom of Hearts, it should have never happened back then. He really hate that war, because of it, both kingdom now are completely drifted apart and become an enemy when both king are best friend in the first place.
And because of that war, many people has suffered. Because of that war, till now he is unable to see him again.
“Well, I shall take my leave. I’ll see you again when I came back mother”
With a last smile, the prince then stood up and leaves his mother room. He was then greeted by the sight of his best friend and his father standing in front of the door, waiting for his return.
“Have you finished talking?”
King Tackey asked. The prince smile at his father as he answer.
“I am, I’m feeling greater now”
The king and Tomohisa cannot help but smile seeing the happy and satisfied smile on Jin’s face. The king then remembers something that he has not yet ask his son where the destination that he will is went to.
“Oh, that’s remind me. I haven’t know where you’ll be going to Jin. Where are you heading?”
Jin smile before then he gave his father an answer.
“The Forbidden Forest”
O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O=O
To be continue