So….boring. There was nothing at all entertaining about his life. It was always the same monotonous routine, day after day, month after month. Nothing seemed to change from the cycle that engulfed the entire kingdom, and more importantly, his life. He attended his lessons, listened to the pleas and cajoles of the citizens, took a stroll through the town on his afternoons. He was wined and dined on the richest of foods, savoring them as amply as any activity that struck his interest. Painting, reading, fencing; he'd mastered them all, and in record time. Those were skills a good prince should know, after all, and he'd made it his mission to complete them in order to prove he was worthy of the position he'd been born to. And Light was praised for it! Oh, was he praised. The King raved about his son, the prince with a genius mind and boundless thirst for knowledge. Princesses from every kingdom fawned over his beauty, comparing him to the autumn sun. Golden, bright, with a thrall only magic could replicate. The townspeople spoke of him too, their future king who would lead them into a new age of happiness, comfort.

…..it never changed.

Light sighed, looking out the window of his bedroom. The velvet curtains were drawn back, crisp fall breezes bringing a pleasant chill to his stuffy bedchamber. Stuffy, dull. Just like his life.

It truly was a droning cycle. Every day he heard the same compliments. He was beautiful, he was clever. His eyes were far more precious than any gem or pearl. He could tame a faerie with the thrall he radiated. Frowning, Light rested his chin in a palm. He wondered if his admirers compared notes on just what flattery they thought would best please him, or if they were really so simple minded that they could think of nothing better.

A leaf broke off the tree down below his room outside, fluttering once before blowing through the open window. It landed on his thigh, richly stark against the leather. "Hm?" Mahogany eyes, glazed from watching the outside sky, brightened just a tad. It seemed the seasons were the only thing he had to look forward to now. Each day brought in a new smell, or sight. There was always something new to look forward to. He could watch the leaves fall from his window, and snow cloud the land's valleys and fields. But still…..in the end, the results proved the same. They only held his interest for so long. Even the seasons weren't so varying that he didn't eventually grow tired with them. Now it was less about interest, and more that watching them was integrated into his routine; sitting idly, flitting away any free time in his bedchamber, only to stare out at the world before him and long for something new.

Staring at the leaf in his hand, he ran his thumb across the crispy inner vein. No matter what he did, the fact remained true. He was the Crown Prince, son of King Soichiro. Future heir to the throne…and he was tired of the boring life he'd been born into. Breeding, culture, refinement. Each was as fixated to his being as the tawny gleam that seemed imbedded in his flesh. He couldn't escape it. They were a part of who he was. But it was just so…

"Boring."

Sliding out of his chair, Light tossed the leaf outside, watching it dance away on the gentle wind. He wished he could escape so easily. Yet he wasn't so lucky. He was imprisoned in this life, and his bars were the fatiguing restlessness plaguing his soul. Light frowned, running fingers through his hair, smoothing the chocolate strands back behind his ear. What could he control, in this pampered life of his? Trivial things. Growing his hair out was one of his few guilty pleasures. The king hated it. So he kept it. Youthful rebellion and all that. Or he was merely waiting to see how long it took for the act to grow boring, just like everything else.

The clock chimed three, his kingdom's clock tower sounding like a bell. Light looked towards the noise, lashes hazing his cheekbones. Afternoon. Time for his walk. He plucked his coat from the mountainous plush that was his bed. Regal black velvet, trimmed in lace with a bow of satin dangling ribbons to the hem; it was a favored article of clothing. He was a prince, after all, and he did enjoy a more luxurious style. Light slipped his arms into the billowing sleeves, lace settling around his knuckles, and he worked the tiny antique buttons at the front, each one set into its proper hole. There was only his top hat left, soft sateen with a ribbon band, and he placed it over his burnt caramel locks, heading out of the bedroom. If he was going for a walk, then he had to look his best. That was how he was taught, and it was a rule he didn't mind following. Being seen as anything but perfect? Perish the thought! He was a prince! An unhappy one, yes, but he couldn't let the people see that.

Marble clicked under his boot heels as he walked through the palace. Guards were waiting at the heavy front doors, and at his approach they were pulled open, stiff nods offered, as well as curious looks. Light ignored it. They were, of course, wondering if he required an escort. Mere routine. His answer was always the same. The repetition had all but been drummed into his system, and as he stepped outside, the thud of doors closing behind him, Light looked around at all the polished marble and wrought iron, and the stained glass windows shooting rainbolic beams across his thighs.

Beautiful.

He was used to it.

His feet started him on the well beaten path. So used, familiar, he barely had to watch where he was going. Instead, Light admired the glow of the fading sun turn a pale red-gold as it sank through the trees, leaves like fire and dropping in tiny embers to the ground. The brunette gave a tiny smile. Autumn really was the most lovely season in Delaurore. The weather was perfect, crisp and bright, with just a hint of wind to keep the earthy warmth comfortably cool. Summer burnt to a slumber, Light was surrounded by shades of umber and ruby, each one raw in the leaves that buried the ground. Those that weren't still fading from their brilliant emerald to a softer hue of gold. Piles of them surrounded the trees at his left and right, many blown out onto the dirt path too. They crunched and rattle as he walked, broken to pieces under his heels. In a way, he almost felt sorry for ruining their perfect beauty.

The path came to a fork, and he hesitated, looking both ways. From experience he knew the right led straight to the village, going over a small brook before exiting neatly in the town's outskirts. The left though; it twisted and turned, taking an indirect route that led a traveler through the village's apple orchards, which they were rather famous for. People came from far reaches to sample the luscious flesh of their fruit. And the orchards were pleasing to wander, if people didn't mind a little dirt. Being as it was, Light naturally wanted to go right. He'd seen the apples before, and going straight to the village was the norm. Why waste unnecessary energy taking the long way? But today….today was different. He didn't want to relive such a repetitive experience.

Shooting the village path a final look, Light turned and began walking its fraternal twin. The fork seemed to disappear behind him, fading into the sun's hazy light and pitter patter of leaves brushing the ground. He relaxed a bit, quite at home in the environment. It wasn't like he'd never taken this path before. He knew his way around the kingdom, though only because his father had shown him map after map, teaching him every path, every inch of land. Unlike those children who weren't born to privilege, his days of exploring, running through the trees and laughing as he played imaginary games of knighthood and dragons, had never breached his imagination. They were but dreams now. Instead of running through the trees, he'd studied, learned. If he couldn't experience the kingdom firsthand, save for the rare outting, he'd learn it another way.

Not that it'd mattered. Had Light been allowed to play outside, the other children wouldn't have joined him. He was royalty, above their station. And most of them were….well….uncouth. Yes, there was a better way of wording it, rather than the detested slang he'd heard in the village during his strolls.

As if he would ever use such barbaric language.

Light's hair was tussled by another breeze, and he sighed, breathing in the crisp scent of leaves and fruit. They were a delectable blend, tangy, but muted, and he could all but taste the dewy apple on his…wait…fruit? The apples were supposed to have all been plucked by now. The autumn harvest had been the week before. He'd attended the ceremony, which was his duty, as prince. "What on earth..." he stopped dead in his tracks, glancing around. He was surrounded by apple fields, still on the path that weaved around their holdings, but he didn't see any signs of rosy flesh, or even yellow. …strange.

Curiosity peaked, he took his hat off and set it aside on a smooth stone. Just in case. He knew these lands, but better to leave a marker.

Light brushed his fingers through silky hairs and walked into the grove on his left. All around him were apple trees, but just as he'd thought, all of them were naked of the seeded fruit, with only a scanty covering of some still green leaves left behind. He frowned, moving a bit further in. Tree after tree, some more covered than others, yet no sign of the hidden fruit. "This is ridiculous," he murmured, pausing in the middle of the grove. He didn't see a single glimpse of-no! There! Light's eyes brightened, and he hurried over to a lone tree still complete with its umbrella of faded greenery.

The tree was massive, casting a few good feet of shadow around itself. The long branches were papered in thick bark that peeled at the edges. They extended up into the sky, some low enough to graze with his fingertips. And there, high above, was a dark red fruit. Flesh like rubies, polished to perfection, it dangled just out of his reach. The scent of apple teased his nose as he looked at it, making Light chuckle. "A late bloomer." Stretching up on the toes of his boots, he reached for it. His reach was an inch short though, leaving him grappling, straining. Light had the strongest urge to pout. He was not about to be bested by an apple! Muscles flexed, pushing to the max, and he craned even harder, ignoring the popping sensations in his shoulder blade. "Stupid thing…" he arched his spine, teetering precariously. He almost had it….

Light grinned, fingers near closing around the apple.

"I would be careful. You could pull a muscle, reaching like that."

What on earth?! Jumping, he whirled around. "Who said that? How dare you-!" His boots scuffed in the dirt though, bumping a tree root, and he lost his balance, teetering back on his heels. "Ahh!" The ground closed in, faster than he'd expected. Light jammed his eyes shut, waiting for the painful collision. But it never came.

"….what?"

Instead, soft warmth enveloped his body, and he gripped a handful of what could only be fabric, caressing the smooth surface with his fingertips. Underneath he felt the span of muscles, strong and hard, urging his gaze to flutter open more. First there was only red and green, the mingled leaves of the tree above, and then his face was tilted to the side by a gentle hand. A pair of dark brown eyes stared down at him, hooded by thick ebony lashes and set into a face pale as the snowy plains of northern Navra. "Are you alright? You're not hurt, are you?" There was a note of concern in the way the stranger cupped Light closer, one of his bent knees supporting the prince's lower back, keeping him aloft. "Can you speak?"

Light tried not to gape, stiffening in the man's arms as he drank in the handsome features looming over him. Perhaps he should've been frightened. Despite his looks, Light didn't recognize him, had never seen him before in the village, much less the palace. Yet…he wasn't. Irritated though, that he was. Whoever this stranger was, he'd been allowed to see the prince at a weak moment. That wasn't allowed! Not ever. "O-of course I can speak!" The brunette muttered, fighting to right himself. "Now release me! You have no right to touch me like this!"

Blinking in surprise, the other helped him up, then quickly backed off when the prince whirled on him. "I'm sorry. I didn't intend to surprise you. But you really could hurt yourself," he explained, palms up in a gesture of peace. "Overworking muscles that haven't been properly exerted in the past could result in any number of injuries, and I-"

"And just what makes you believe they aren't properly used?" Light cut him off, eyes slimming at the corners. Anyone who knew him understood it to be a forewarning of his temper rearing its ugly head. But this stranger didn't know. He seemed to be completely clueless actually, both to that, and Light's identity. No one was stupid enough to touch the prince the way he had, even if it was to save him from meeting the orchard's grass face first. It was a death sentence waiting to happen. But he'd risked it, which either made him a fool, or oblivious to whom he was speaking to. Light was torn between both possibilities, personally. "Well? Answer me! Do I look weak to you?"

"...no, of course not."

The minor hesitation didn't go unnoticed, and he frowned darkly. "Come again? Perhaps I misheard you, but I believe that you paused. And that implies the opposite of what you just said." Stiffening, Light's lips quirked, baring a hint of teeth. "Which is it? Do you, or do you not believe me weak?"

Most would've been panicked at seeing him angry. He was royalty, and the brunette knew for a fact that he came across as somewhat…antagonistic when he was annoyed. There wasn't any sign of such emotion from his surprise savior though. He appeared strangely calm, lowering his arms and stepping back. "I was in no manner trying to imply that you were weak.." he murmured. "I merely meant that you don't come across as someone who spends his days doing overly trying tasks. It seems….beneath you." The last part was graced with a small nod of his head, his eyes cast to the ground. A true sign of respect. "Please forgive me if I didn't make myself clear."

"…." hesitating, Light shoved away the feelings that stirred to life under influence of the man's gentle voice. This was neither the time, nor the place to be overcome by such preposterous things. Already his routine had been thrown off by that damnable apple, and now this man was further deterring him. Though….this was different…. "I suppose-" with a little grimace, he nodded. "Very well. You're forgiven. But fair warning, stranger. Next time, word your thoughts more carefully. Most wouldn't be so understanding."

"Of course, I understand. Thank you." The taller man looked at him, and again Light was spell struck by his eyes. Slanted, thick with lashes, they were hued a rich shade of brown far darker than his own. It was akin to staring into pools of primal earth, yet they were gentle, caressing Light's body in its velvet jacket and tailored slacks. Light glowered, returning the gesture. He'd barely noticed the man's clothes, but he did now, as well as taking a moment to admire the built frame under simple linen and velvet. His shirt seemed fitted, but comfortable, and was tailored to his tall frame. As were the rest of his clothes. They weren't in the style of Delaurore either, possessing more of a northern flair. Perhaps Navra? Their people were pale skinned and dark eyed. The stranger could hail from there.

Light didn't dwell on it. Foreign craftsmanship or not, nothing could hide the man's rippling muscles. He was strong. Fit. How odd. Though it did suit him, he reluctantly admitted. His tall frame stood well, and the strength was hardly overbearing. Not that his elegant features would allow for such a thing. The man was a handsome balance of dapper and rustic. Quite a contradiction.

Well, one thing was certainly clear to the prince. This stanger was no commoner. He spoke eloquently, not a hint of crass, and his fair skin had seen too little sun for him to have the life of a simple peasant. His muscular structure was cause for wonder; such strength for an aristocrat was unusual. But Light couldn't find reason to complain. That strength had saved him from completely embarrassing himself, after all.

Light's frown hitched a bit, and he held out a hand, one brow lifting in a coy stare. Proper introductions were necessary in court, especially when dealing with royalty. If they weren't made accordingly, then the man wasn't worth his time. He had no interest in dealing with a simpleton. A makeshift trial if he'd ever seen one, but this would stand as a good test of the darker haired man's judgment. "You never introduced yourself. Perhaps it's different where you come from, but here, we hold ourselves to high standards."

The man took the proffered limb without question, surprisingly airy in his touches. Light was pleased. He understood proper etiquette then. That was good.

"My sincerest apologies, yet again." Looking up at him, a dark brow quirked. "I'm afraid where I come from, the etiquette for aristocrats and those of lower station is rather different. They are rarely allowed to socialize, if at all. I believe the gentry thinks anyone not possessing a title is diseased, or at the very least unworthy of their time. So I am rather unused to dealing with one of your nature. It's all very new to me."

Blinking, the brunette stared at his hand, eyes rising next to his regal face. Something in the way he worded himself expressed a wary caution. Even so, Light got the distinct impression that the stranger was not of regal blood. Now that….was surprising. "You aren't an aristocrat?" Splaying his fingers across the man's palm, he felt the calluses marring otherwise smooth flesh, and was more than startled. Rarely was he wrong in his deductions. "….I'm surprised," Light admitted. "You seem far too knowledgeable to be a simple commoner."

The stranger chuckled. "That's because I'm not." Sinking down to one knee, warm lips touched Light's knuckles in a chaste kiss. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Mikami Teru. I recently arrived in your fair kingdom, and I was taking a walk to learn the lay of the land, gather my bearings. I had just begun to traverse the orchard when you stumbled into my arms. A feat, might I say, that is hardly worth complaint." Smiling, he kept hold of the brunette's hand, and Light near shuddered as a warm thumb slid across the pads of his fingers. "Now…if it pleases you. I do believe I am owed an introduction as well."

Outstanding boldness spoken in a modest tongue. A rare find. And once again there was that note of superior intellect in the ma-Teru's speech. Not an aristocrat indeed. He certainly could do an excellent job fooling the gentry's most elite. He'd managed to surprise the prince, the noblest of the noble, and Light prided himself on his ability to spot a true gem in the crowd. Teru was special, if not a tad too bold.

Of course, that alone was reason enough for him to deny knowledge of his name. Light was the prince, and therefore bound by an entirely different set of rules than those followed by the masses beneath him. "And what if it doesn't please me?" He smirked, mahogany eyes glinting. "You said it yourself. I am of superior breeding. You have no right to ask anything of me, and I am well within my power to deny you." That was the power of a royal. A prince. And he wielded it well...though a bit of gloating never harmed anyone. "In fact, Teru, my station far surpasses your own. Which means your rights are rather-insignificant."

If he was surprised at Light's words, Teru didn't show it. "…all that you say is true, but what of my question? Does it please you?" He released Light's hand, bowing his head lower. "If not, then I encourage you to follow your whims. I am, by all accounts, a mere servant to your will."

Well then. How…topsy turvy. Light frowned. One minute Teru was being quite bold with the young prince, and the next he was submitting like a dog would to its master. It was done out of respect, he understood that much….he didn't like it though. Accustomed to getting what he wanted, the teen commonly ordered around his servants. They thought no ill will of him, as it was his duty. He was the prince, heir apparant. Their job was to please him, and obey whatever requests he issued. Yet hearing such familiar, obedient tones from the darker brunette…no. Light much preferred his looser tongue over rigid custom. Even odder, he found himself somewhat attracted to the former, rather than the latter. Mindless submission was boring. He was bowed and catered to day in and day out by servants and gentry alike. Another cowed man was not what he needed, or wanted.

"….my name is Light."

Teru's eyes shot up to his own, surprise heady in their earthy hue. "Beg pardon?"

Ahh…he'd caught him off guard. Teru had been expecting rejection then. Light's mouth curved with a teasing grin, hand at his middle in proper regal form. Lovely. They were even then. "My name, Teru, is Light. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"Light." The other repeated. For one moment, the brunette thought he saw a spark on that handsome face, a hint of mischief perhaps, but then it was gone as quickly as it'd come. "What a beautiful name. But I assure you, the pleasure is entirely my own." Rising to his feet, Teru bowed at the waist and offered up a faint smile. "Formalities aside, I am curious. What brings you out here, Light? I suspect this wasn't a random stroll."

"-Not exactly." Light shifted away, glancing up at the apple still hovering above their heads. The damn thing seemed to tease him, echoing his failure in its shiny red surface. "I take a walk every day about this time, but typically I head straight to town."

Teru folded his arms behind his back, appearing the proper gentleman Light had mistaken him for. "And today you decided to take a detour?" His expression softened as he followed the caramel gaze up to the hanging fruit. "If you were craving an apple, it might've been easier to go into town, Light. I've learned throughout many years of experience that seeking things from the source is never an easy task."

Scoffing, the prince turned away. "Don't be ridiculous! I didn't come all the way out here for a mere piece of fruit. I was deep in thought, and decided to take the alternate path to town. That's all." Light didn't bother to add his woes of boredom. Information was priceless, and he refused to divulge too much to this man, Teru, who was essentially a stranger. A stranger with beautiful eyes like the autumn earth, skin fresh as cream….and a heart just as pure-

Light halted those thoughts the second they appeared, a delicate flush coloring his cheeks. What-what in the world? How could he think such things? And of a man! A strange man!

"…Light?" The sweetest of touches fell on his arm, yet still he nearly leapt out of his skin. "Ah, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to startle you again." Teru pulled his hand away, looking properly ashamed. "I was only going to ask if you were cold."

Cold? "Why do you ask?" Light coughed a bit, avoiding direct contact as the other brunette glanced him over. Twice in one day he'd made a fool of himself. Aristocrat indeed. He was hardly worthy of his title as Crown Prince. If father could see him now, he would be ashamed.

"It's only that…your cheeks seem a tad flushed. I imagine that coat of yours isn't very sturdy. From what I've experienced thus far, Delaurore has a rather tepid climate, but fall does have a tendency to make things chilly." Ending his speal with a quiet look, Teru lifted one shoulder. A gentleman's shrug. "You can never be too careful."

Stunned silence, eyes widening to comic proportions. "Pardon?" Criticizing any noble born's fashion tastes was considered the most grievous of insults, if not making for interesting gossip for the ladies at court. But criticizing the prince? Unheard of! "Teru, I'm very well aware of the affects of cool weather on the body! Or have you forgotten, I live in Delaurore? If anyone should know m-this kingdom's climate, it's me!" Crossing his arms, Light felt ready to smack the other man. No one made a mockery of his choices in clothing, but specially not a traveling stranger! "As it happens, this is my favorite coat, and I'll have you know that it's very comfortable. Perfect for fall weather!"

Teru flinched at his indignant huff, hastily backtracking. "Yes, It's a lovely coat Light. You look fetching in it. But seeing as it's made of velvet, and I know that's hardly a warm material…I was simply wondering after your well being." His voice trailed off, flickers of worry giving his irises a gold speckle. Barely noticeable, unless one knew where to look. Light did, and he couldn't help but stare at them, any anger gone after the placating explanation. Teru was looking out for him? Why? They weren't friends, cohorts, or anything similar. They'd only just met!

"Preposterous Teru. I'm fine." He waved idly, blowing the subject away as easily as the feathery wind tickling his face. Leaves stirred at his feet, several picked up and made to spin in the air, catching Light's eye. They went higher, and higher, trailing off into the distance, mere specks of rustic red. Hewanted to catch one, keep it close, if only to see what freedom was like. That was ridiculous though. Sentiments for a child, not a prince. Light forced himself back down to earth, and imagine his shock to see Teru looking at him, his smile knowing.

"Now it makes sense, your taking the scenic route." Moving close to the tree, he touched the bark with a large hand. "I have to confess, Light…in all my travels, I've never come across a kingdom yet that looks so beautiful in the fall as your great Delaurore." A leaf was plucked, this one more gold than red, and he offered it to the teenaged prince. "You must feel proud, living here."

The compliment might as well have been directed completely at him. Light murmured a low "thank you," joining him by the tree, leaf in hand. "It is beautiful, isn't it?"

Teru nodded, pressing his spine to the bark and relaxing. Light was royalty, and doing anything similar would've been horrendously common. So he stood tall, his height still impressively below that of his surprising companion, caressing the veins in the leaf's surface with a blunt nail. For many moments they remained like so, not another word spoken between the two of them. Only the wind rustling through the trees and leaves offered any noise, broken by the slow pulsing of heartbeats and throaty breath. Then a fleeting sigh left Teru's throat, so lost in the grove Light almost didn't hear it. "Light. I have no room to question you, but I can't help but notice…"

"Hmm?" Busy twirling the leaf, he frowned. Notice? What could a stranger possibly notice about a man he hardly knew? "Notice what?"

Clearly tentative, the taller man sighed again. "Forgive me if this comes across as impertinent, but you seem….unhappy." Searching for the right words, he carefully touched the tawny flesh of Light's palm, fingertips velvet soft and tracing every vein, every crease. "No….that's not right. It's not that you're unhappy…..you're simply-" Teru fought for the word, bringing it to the tip of his tongue. Light saw him struggling, trying desperately to translate thoughts into words. His efforts were almost cute. More startling though, as he saw the recognition in those dark eyes. Teru knew, and he was only hesitating out of worry. He didn't want to insult the prince, whom he only knew as a beautiful stranger.

Light was dumbstruck, letting the leaf slide through his fingers and fall to the grass beneath his feet. His compassion….

"You're nothing like the people at court."

"I…come again?" Staggered, the other's face colored with the faintest of blush. He appeared quite ready to jaw drop, and as entertaining a notion it was, the prince was pleased when he didn't, instead smoothing his face over with a careful mask of stoic beauty. Where would be the fun if Teru was so easily rattled?

Smirking, Light moved away from the tree. "Shall I list your crimes for you?" His tone went sinister, cut only by a impish lilt. "For starters, you've yet to grovel at my feet. By Delaurore tradition, those beneath a noble station are required to submit themselves to any aristocrat if he or she orders." Lifting a finger to silence Teru's protests, he continued. "Furthermore, you haven't bothered to mention my beauty, wit, or regal stature. That's become a norm for all of the socially elite, as I'm considered quite the prize. Rare do you find a man with superior intellect, and a face to match. And as your superior, you're supposed to honor me with praise. Or at the very least, a gift of some kind." Chuckling to himself, he rose up on his toes to brush the branch above with his fingertips. The damnable branch, its mocking fruit. He'd have to ask his father to ensure this orchard's special care from now on. "Frankly, Teru, your actions today would be condemned at the palace, or in the presence of any noble born."

Watching him silently, Teru finally chortled and took a step forward. "I imagine you hear word of your remarkable accomplishments aplenty, to use them so casually against me." He touched golden flesh, gently pushing Light's hand away from the branch and cupping it in his own. There was a firmness there that should've been expected, as his strength was clearly defined under the material of his coat, but Light shivered despite himself. "I suppose that's why I never bothered to repeat them. Once recited enough, even the sweetest of poetry loses its charm." He drew fingers up to his mouth, hovered a breath away from contact. "But if it's custom….." Teru's lips rose; Light would almost swear he was being teased. "I fear I've been quite rude. An aristocrat of flawless grace and perfect manner, being forced to share his time with a man who can't even use proper etiquette? Unthinkable. I can only pray you'll take pity on this outlander, and pardon my ignorant ways."

His brow puckered. The gall of this man! Teru dared to tease him? Strangers or not, he should know better! Light flexed the digits in Teru's grasp, contemplating the flesh beneath his own. He had all the right in the world to feel offended, pride wounded by those grinning words. He wasn't some common peasant. His position demanded respect, both as a noble and the son of the king. Teru may have been unaware of the latter, but he'd already acknowledged Light's blood superiority. Knowing that, his deliberate taunt of the brunette, however gently done, was unforgivable in the eyes of the law, as well as society.

Light narrowed his eyes. Unforgivable….unless he declared otherwise. "And now I can add interrupting to your list of charges."

"Hm?" Teru cocked a thin brow, lips moving a hair closer to his hand. Catching Light's eye, he laughed quietly, flexing his grip in a gesture akin to affection. "Please overlook my discretions then, and do continue. I'm but a stranger to Delaurore custom, and wish to know where I erred in my treatment of you."

Interesting. Like the autumn wind, Teru really was unpredictable. "Such a disrespectful man," he purred. "Your rudeness truly holds no bounds. But, as I was going to say. You have proven yourself scathingly ignorant, refuting the customs of this land….." he paused, honing in on Teru's reactions, then allowed the masks to drop, a warm smile focused at the taller male. "I can't bring myself to care."

"…..is that so?" In return, his own seemed to brighten ten fold. "What a change of heart. I'm undeserving of such special treatment."

"On the contrary. I find you very deserving." Light retorted with a laugh, irises happily gleaming as a warm kiss touched his fingers. "Most pay attention to my station alone, ignoring all else in favor of my charm and appearance. You're the first person I've met who's taken the time to actually talk with me. I haven't been so entertained in quite a while." Honestly, he'd never been so entertained. Not since his days as a dreaming boy, fighting dragons and wishing for something new. Too many years of dreadful monotony, and now here he stood, smiling and laughing with a man he barely knew. Though said detail he wanted to change, and very soon. Things were going far too splendingly between them for Light to allow him freedom to run away, disappear like a dream. He wanted more than that.

"To their credit, the flattery of your appearance is justified." Lowering Light's hand, the darker brunette shook his head. "Light, you're very beautiful. The faeries themselves must have had a hand in your birth, for I've never laid eyes on a human more lovely." He knew the arguments were coming, and continued before a single word could pass Light's lips. "However, beauty alone shouldn't be the only factor you're judged by. You have many more important qualities." Teru smiled, slow and coy. "I'm happy to bring them to light…if you'll excuse the pun."

Wise with his tongue, and witty. Light's chest tingled, warm spirals circling beneath his flesh. For the first time, a compliment had made him happy. Appropriate that it came from the man who was entertaining him so greatly. He'd want it no other way. "So long as you don't make it a tradition, I'll pardon you, just this once. I had to endure countless puns involving my name throughout my childhood. There's only so much a man can take."

"I imagine so. But your name is very fitting," Teru murmured.

Light just turned his eyes up to the crystal sky, accepting his words. He'd never given it much thought himself, but the brunette was right, at least in a sense. He shared a coloring with his favorite season, all gold and shades of red. More though, both were caught in a shift. Dark, light, warm and cold. Fall could be either, depending on its mood. Cruelty, gentleness. Unyielding, giving. Similarities he'd never noticed, or maybe he had, and simply never placed them? Things of that nature tended to be subconscious, and he never dwelt for long on his own nature.

"…I do have a question for you….if you're willing?"

He didn't bother to look at him. They both knew what Teru wanted to know. "You want to know why I take my walks, don't you Teru?" Light sank to his knees on the earth, reclining back against the tree. An undignified pose, but it didn't matter. There was no one here to berate him. "It's because...I'm bored. I have been for a long time." He gestured to the grove around them, fingers limp. "I'm a pr-noble. My life is ruled by laws, regulations, grandeur and parties. I've never wanted for anything. But it's more a gilded cage than a life. I have to live up to everyone else's expectations, follow their plan, and for what? Am I doomed to eternal unhappiness, just to please others?" Light laid his head back, staring at the billowing canopy of green, auburn and gold above his head. "It's sounds childish, I know….."

He gave a wistful sigh. Upon scrutiny, those leaves might as well have been his silks at the palace. Mere glamour hiding his trappings. "It hardly matters. I can't be selfish. I have my duties, and I'm happy to serve the people. Really, I am. I just…."

A soft touch bloomed across his jaw, turning Light's face to the side. "I don't think it's selfish," Teru released his hold, kneeling down beside him. "You can't help feeling the way you do, Light. It's natural."

"Perhaps for a commoner. For me, it's a nuisance. How am I to focus on my duties if I'm constantly bored and wanting something more?" Leaning away from him, Light dug his nails into rough bark, scraping the pitted surface. "...what if I grow so bored that I simply stop caring?"

Teru grimaced. "That wouldn't happen. You're a good man Light. You care too much to just stop." Glancing at the scraping nails, he covered graceful fingers with his own. "….have you ever considered that it's not boredom you're feeling, but perhaps a longing for companionship? From what I garner, your childhood wasn't a very happy one, in terms of friends or playmates. And I didn't notice anyone with you when you entered the grove."

….companionship? Light mulled that over. Well, Teru was right; he'd never had a true friend growing up. People saw him as the prince, their future ruler. Not a mere person. Children only wanted to curtsy or bow to him, as taught by their parents. He'd been left alone. Free to do as he pleased, yes, but alone nonetheless. He'd thrown himself into his studies not only because it was his duty, but as a way to avoid reminding himself of how alone he really was. He couldn't hide it though, could he? Maybe the world wasn't boring, not entirely….

He simply wanted someone to enjoy it with him.

"Interesting….I never would've considered a possibility like that," Light said, voice soft and pondering.

"Sometimes you need an outside opinion to make things clear." Rising tall, Teru offered him his arm. "I hope you don't think I'm trying to impose my opinions on you though. I merely wanted to offer input. You seemed distressed."

Light took the proffered limb and climbed to his feet, boots scuffing the grass and leaves. Brushing off his clothes, he chuckled, feeling a bit better than when he'd first started his afternoon stroll. Amazing what a simple chat with a stranger could do. Albeit a very handsome stranger with a penchant for romance, but all the same. "I highly doubt you could impose anything upon me, Teru. I'm very set in my ways, and while intriguing you may be, you're still but a stranger." Smirking, he squeezed Teru's wrist. "You don't have that kind of influence." The silent yet hung in the air, only acknowledged by the two males mentally. "Besides, what kind of man would I be if I allowed my opinions to be changed so easily?"

"I doubt that will ever be an issue." The brunette dealt him a kindly look, slightly pink at the touch on his arm. They were in close quarters, far more than would ever have been allowed in a normal setting. Royalty had to be kept under constant watch, for fear of any attempts on their life. Light doubted Teru's interests were anything other than mere intrigue, possibly friendly; the law was the law though. Prince he was, and therefore it was too dangerous to allow a commoner to come too close without a guard present. ….Except, Teru wasn't a commoner. He'd said that first off, right after Light had stumbled into his arms.

Light was puzzled. He hadn't bothered to question the brunette's station earlier, too locked in his own thoughts and woes. Now he had a clearer head, and he was feeling better, certainly, but his curiosity had been peaked. What was it the man had said? A traveler…..learning the lands. To do what? "Teru? You never did tell me-"

The chimes of the clock tower broke his speech, ringing across the grove and nearby village. He glared in its direction, resisting the urge to pout instead. Another needless interruption. Maybe some wicked faerie was playing a trick on him. "Ah, I didn't realize it'd grown so late." Stepping away from the teen, Teru adjusted his coat and looked off into the distance. He didn't want to go; his body language made that perfectly clear. The stiffness in his spine, the sudden way his mouth clamped tight. He was as irritated as the prince. "…It seems I'm doomed to constantly apologizing to you, Light." Lips taut on his face, he wavered. "I'm sorry…I need to be going…"

Oh. Light tried not to notice how his chest clenched, unhappiness seeping through his blood like a cool tonic. When did he grow so attached? An hour ago, he would've laughed at his ridiculousness. Then again, an hour ago he hadn't been stretching up on tiptoe to try and reach a silly apple. "I-I see." Forcing a cool expression, he brushed him away and fixed his own vestiments. "I should be too. Father is probably wondering where I am."

"I imagine so."

Unaffected by Light's nonchalance, his savior and intriguer tapped his shoulder. "Before I go, might I offer my services?" He tilted his face up; the apple, damned thing, was right above their heads. Teru caught Light's eye, winked, and plucked the taunting fruit. "You seemed to really want this," he hummed, offering it to him, flesh crimson against his pale complexion. Light blinked at the apple as it was deposited neatly into his palm, Teru's fingers forcing his own to curl around it. "A simple you're welcome would suffice."

….damn him. "I don't owe you anything." Light simpered, tracing the styrations in the apple's surface. They shifted rather prettily from ruby to garnet, then back again. A small detail; he couldn't have noticed it from afar. "I was going to order you to pluck it for me anyway, before you left. You simply thought ahead." He dipped his nail into skin, breathing in the fresh scent of apple. Pleasant, rustic. Pleasure sparked in his cinnamon colored irises, transfiguring them to gold, and he slipped the fruit from hand to hand, enjoying the slick sensations. How simple. His boredom, and his curiosity, had been satiated by a mere stranger. A handsome, beautiful, earthy eyed stranger.

"I thought you'd enjoy it."

His concentration slipped, apple wobbling. Light scolded himself mentally, even as Teru hid a laugh behind a fake little cough. What in the world was wrong with him? One measly gift and he behaved like a lovesick child? Foolishness at its prime. He was better than that. "I thought you had somewhere to be," He jabbed the other's chest, scolding him. There certainly was not a frustrated blush staining his cheeks. Not at all. "Or is my presence so intoxicating that you simply can't bring yourself to abandon my side?"

Teru dipped his head, feathery bangs hiding his triumphant grin. "I apologize."

And what a surprise. No answer to the question. Complete avoidance, in true aristocrat style. Light pursed his lips. Again, he was questioning the brunette's lineage. "Hn. I haven't the time to reprimand you for your rudeness again. The next time we meet, I'll simple make up for it and scold you two fold." Waving him off, the prince hid a smile, caressing the apple so easily plucked. Teru's thoughtfulness could make him weak at the knees, if savored one time too many. "Now go, or you'll be late for whatever it is you're supposed to be doing."

Backing away, the elder lowered his head and sank into a graceful bow, arm folded at his waist. Time slipped to a stop, only nature's beauty at their sides as Teru matched gold with brown, gazes locking for a final time. "As you wish."

Light blushed harder, but it went unseen, for Teru turned on his heels and strode deep into the orchard. Just like the path, he seemed to be swallowed up by the trees, coat flapping behind him and hair tussed at his collar. As he went, the brunette smothered the ache he refused to acknowledge, looking down at his fruit. A gift from a stranger. Wasn't that a popular theme in fairy tales? Often times it stood as a lesson to young children. Be wary of strangers, and whatnot. "Somehow I doubt Teru is old hag." He laughed, slipping it into his pocket. He craved entertainment, not a princess reenactment.

Whistling lightly, breathy tendrils of wind made his hair flutter. Light sighed, turning his face into the breeze. Warm sunlight still poured down, bathing his flesh with a golden sheen, and he admired it, relaxing for a moment. He felt so…peaceful. When was the last time he'd ever had a chance to simply drink things in like this? "Never." Answering his own question, he reached his hand up, fingers splayed across the sky. He'd always craved freedom, a chance to move, do as he pleased. Now though… "I feel happy."

Teru had made him understand something very important about himself. Something he never would've figured out on his own. Light wanted freedom, that was true. But he also wanted friends. Perhaps just one. Someone to converse with, share his thoughts. Wasn't it common, such a want? He knew the villagers clung to one another, almost in a rugged tribe. They seemed unfailingly happy, and through all his walks through the town, Light had never seen one person appear bored, as he so often had. Could the solution be that simple? A friend?

He purred to himself, inhaling the musky scent of recently mowed grass and changing leaves crushed beneath his toes. He wasn't bored. Well, not as much as he'd thought. He was lonely, in need of a companion. Someone who possessed intelligence, hopefully equal to his own…a man, for what woman could hold a logical conversation? And, more importantly, a kind hearted fiend who could entice him, drawing him from his windowsill into the world below. Lo and behold, the familiar visage of Teru's face came to mind. Light lingered on it, then grinned. Yes, that was perfect! He was annoyed to have their conversations interrupted, right? It made perfect sense! If he had Teru at his side, then he'd never want for entertainment! They could do all sorts of simple activities, and Light knew it would be all right, because Teru wasn't boring. He was….interesting. The man didn't treat him like a palace pet, or fawn over his fall themed beauty. Acknowledge it, fine. Teru had made it more than clear that he believed Light attractive.

"However, beauty alone shouldn't be the only factor you're judged by. You have many other important qualities." Reciting the man's words, Light near shivered. Teru hadn't come across as anything other than comfortable in his presence too. His hand trembled, remembering the way warm lips had drawn across it. No….he was certainly happy enough. If a mere conversation had him at ease, then in time….Light thumbed his knuckles. "I wonder if Father would allow me to have him summoned to the castle," he thought aloud. A silly question. Of course he would. He was the heir apparant, and he always got what he wanted.

At ease, Light took a final look at the grove and started walking. He felt better. Much better. The words of his new friend-hopefully-were on constant loop in his head. Yes, Teru was right. How had he ever thought the world boring? Everything was beautiful, fresh and golden in its autumn beauty. There was naught to be found there but splendor. He touched the apple in his pocket, stem twitched between his fingers. It was all a matter of perspective, and his had been blinded by the trappings of his crown. There was nothing boring about the beauty surrounding him, or the peasants in their village. The castle could still endure a little editing though. He'd oversee it himself. The king never cared what he did, as long as it didn't affect his calm, peaceful life, or put his own at risk.

The stone holding his hat approached, and Light scooped it up. It wasn't worn though. He instead let it swing at his side, hair tossed around his face. He was allowed few luxuries of his choosing. If he wanted to appear somewhat bedraggled, then he would. Any criticisms would be quickly abolished.

Well…almost any.

The clock had chimed half past four when his feet met the palace steps. Holding open the doors, the guards nodded to him, and Light spared each a look. Anything more would be questioned. "Father?" Setting his hat down on a grandiose tea table, he glanced around. Odd. Usually the king was waiting nearby, eager to hear about his strolls. Light was relied on as a sort of makeshift hands and ears. Any trouble in the village was reported to the higher ups through him. "Where are you? I have something to discuss with you!"

"Prince Light! Prince Light! Where have you been?" One of the servants, a younger boy with pale eyes, came rushing out of one of the palace's many hallways, flailing wildly. Light, startled, offered no resistence as he was grabbed by the sleeve and hauled away. Wildly improper though it was, the servant wore his father's official crest. At the least, his manner was urgent for a good reason. "Your father requested your presence ten minutes ago! We looked everywhere for you, but you'd vanished!"

"I was on my afternoon walk! Father knows that," Light struggled to keep up with the frantic servant. Urgent or not, he really did not appreciate being dragged along, as if he were a common wench. It was unsightly. "What's this about? Why does Father want to speak with me?"

No time for a reply. He was led through another set of double doors, the throne room's marble floor clicking wildly as he stumbled. "Excuse me!" Light righted himself, angrily huffing. What in the world? Was he destined to repeat performances of embarrassing agility all day long? This was growing ridiculous.

"Ah, Light, there you are!" The teenager's shoulder was clapped from behind, and he whirled around to see his father's wrinkled face. Time was good to him, in the sense that he still retained his handsome features, but there was nothing to stop the grey streaking through his hair, or the weary lines aging his brow. "I'm sorry if this seems rather sudden, but the royal guard is introducing the recruits today, as well as the new captain. He'll be in charge of your safety, so I thought it best if you were here." Smiling fondly at his son, the king led him to the throne. Light, still somewhat rattled, took a stance at his side, as was his place until he took charge. So much excitement over a little guard change? "Y-yes Father."

The king patted his arm. "Perhaps later you can regail me with this afternoon's news?"

News. Light bent low, much to the elder's surprise. "Actually Father, I have something important to discuss with you," he whispered. "It's about something that happened in the apple orchard. I met a-" he went silent as the trumpets announced the entry of his and the royal family's most honored protectors. He tried not to show his annoyance, cupping his hands at his lower back and properly lifting his chin. Duty came before pleasure, no matter what. His anxiousness over Teru would simply have to wait a moment longer.

Trumpets sounded, and the throne room's doors were opened. One by one the new recruits filed into the room, standing perfectly at attention. They were followed by their matured counterparts, and all together they bowed respectfully to the royal pair. Cringing a smidge, Light ignored the flair of anger at the monotony. This was part of his duty. If he didn't show respect to his people, then how could he ever expect to gain it in return? Besides, he was in a wonderfully good mood, thanks to his encounter, and so he bit down on the unpleasant slur on his tongue, looking them over. Several new faces were scattered here and there, none that overly stood out to him. He recognized a few as local villagers. Others had a distinctly foreign cast to their features. Light was sure he even spotted a head of blond hair. Rare, from the southern kingdom. He would be quite popular amongst the servant girls. And there was another foreigner! But he was dark haired, with sapphire eyes. Navra then. The kingdom forged in snow and ice. Light didn't favor it. Far too cold, and its royalty were well known to be callous in their treatment of the poor.

His brows pinched. Come to think of it, hadn't Teru mentioned his being a foreigner? Could he be from Navra too? He possessed the same pale skin, and his hair could very well be spun from the kingdom's dark, pitch skies...

The king rose from his seat, offering the soldiers a warm nod of welcome. "I see you all arrived safely." His dark eyes scanned the line, furrowing at the corners. "It's a pleasure to welcome you to our troops…but where is your commanding officer? Didn't he travel with you?"

Light didn't bother to listen for an explanation. Whoever the captain was, he was certainly making a bad first impression. While his father was more lenient towards his guards, the prince was the complete opposite. If they couldn't live up to his standards, then what use were they? Teru, brazen as he was, would make a better

"My sincerest apologies, King Soichiro." The voice rang out across the hall, strong and filled with mirth. "I was waylaid by your local apple orchard. I've never seen anything so…beautiful."

His breath vanished. There, walking towards him from the depths of the crowds….could it be? Light gaped, thankfully to the ignorance of the rest of the room. A dark pair of molten eyes was watching him, their owner approaching on dusty riding boots that still had flecks of red and gold caught in the leather. Leaves, crushed underfoot and blown by the wind. The same flecks marred his hair, longer locks than a typical man's dress, inky black and feathered around his face of alabaster. Dressed in clothes of linen, the clothes of an officer, Light realized, he approached and stepped onto the stairs leading up to the dais, sinking to one knee. "Mikami Teru, First Captain of the Royal Guard. At your service." His eyes flicked to Light on the last part, and he extended his hand to the brunette, aloof, all for the mischievous tick of his lips. "You must be the prince I've heard so much about. If information stands firm, I'm meant to be your royal guard. Is that correct, your highness?"

"Ah-ye-yes," Light stammered, swallowing. This was….too good to be true. He was certain of it now. The magical fold had gathered together and plotted this fiendish trick against him. "My name is Light."

"Light…" Teru reached out more, reciting the custom so jovially used minutes before in the orchard. "I should apologize to you as well then, as you are the one under my protection. But your orchard's were so lovely, I simply couldn't help myself. I fell under their spell, and had to stop for a moment. Such natural beauty should always be admired." His eyes slimmed, crinkling with hidden laughter. "After all, you never know what secrets are hidden under a pretty exterior."

Fiend. Brute. Madman. Enticer. Light yelled each of those inside his head, slowly lifting the same limb earlier caressed and placing it in Teru's. A repeat performance if he ever saw one, and it was the farthest thing from boring. "You're forgiven." He tapped his fingertips against Teru's palm, smirking ever so lightly. Let him have his laugh. In the end, he got what he wanted, and that was all that mattered to the pretty prince. "Best be grateful. I don't offer many second chances."

Lifting his cupped hand in agreeance, Teru touched it to his lips. "I thank you, Prince Light, for being so gracious as to take pity on me in forgiving my ignorance. I won't make the same mistake twice." He peered at the teen over his knuckles, kissing them tenderly to hide his smile. "You have my word."

"…." Light's hand trembled, receiving a veiled clasp from strong digits. Tch. Spell indeed. If Teru had been struck by it in the orchard, then the very same had hit him as well. Nothing else could explain the sudden burst of joy he sensed spreading like wildfire throughout his body. "…..I'll hold you to it."

The newly stationed guard chuckled, kissing his hand once more. A pact sealed, forever thrown into the wind. Entertaining thought that. Light almost fancied it magical, like one of his tales from childhood. That was, of course, ridiculous though. Real life wasn't a fairy tale.

"I wouldn't expect anything less."

Oh, certainly not. It was so much more entertaining.