Hello, Vocaloid fans, I'm back from a long absence in Vocaloid. (If you're a Voca Gaku reader, chapter six DOES exist but is not completed yet. It will hopefully be done soon.) This is a new story that takes place in a world very different from our own (unless you, for some reason, live in a world where people have special abilities...but I won't say more). It is important to understand that Kaito and Meiko's kingdoms have been long-time enemies and that it has been bred into tradition. It is also important to understand that, at this time, arranged marriage was acceptable among royals. Also...chapter titles indicate whose point-of-view the particular chapter is from. Thank you, and enjoy!

Lovely. That was the thought that came to mind when I first saw her. Her portrait flattered her: her brown hair fell to her shoulders, silky with hints of red. Her eyes were bright, captivating me, but remained regal. A tiny smile was on her lips. At that moment, I knew I had to meet her.

"Who is this?" I asked, resolved, but also a bit frightened. Do I really want to know who she is? Perhaps she's a spy, a criminal...no, no, she couldn't be. I can tell from her face.

The servant seemed to hesitate, then, seeing my impatience, rushed to reply. "The first princess of the People of Fire, Princess Meiko, your royal highness."

I felt my stomach drop. Her kingdom is our sworn enemy! I sighed and massaged my temples. Great, so, after being pressured to get engaged, to find a bride, I find the girl I've been searching for all along...but she's our enemy. Sighing again, I looked up to see one of the double doors close. And that servant...is he my father's spy? NOW what sorts of things will he tell him?!

I didn't have long to fret. The sound of footsteps. Then the push of the door. I looked up from my hands to see my father. An older man, he still looked beyond his age; the pressure of ruling had turned his once-vibrant hair gray. His gentle smile creased his face.

"Son, I have heard of your interest in this maiden...what was her name?"

I frowned at him. He knew her name perfectly well. "Princess Meiko."

Wrinkles spread over his face as his smile broadened. "Oh, yes, the first princess of the Fiery. Anyhow," he continued, "I have been looking for some time to sign a peace treaty with their kingdom and I have sent for them to come for a visit. Would it be too much to bother for you to entertain the princess?"

I knew that my father loved me and that he was trying to do the best, both for me and the kingdom, but at that moment, I could sense that he was scheming, that this would turn into something much greater. After living alone with him for thirteen years, how could I not?

Sighing, I replied, "I suppose I could entertain her. And when will this visit be?"

He pounced on the opportunity like a cat on a mouse, his eyes glinting. "In two days." He stood up and was about to leave when he looked over his shoulder to say, "Be ready."

And, by his eyes, I knew it was no joking matter.

Oooh...okay, that was pretty short, even by my standards. But it does lead up to their first meeting, so do understand that the next chapter will have substance to it. For future reference, a link to my blog is posted on my profile page and progress on this story will be posted, providing the time I have on hand. And, on a final note, please do give a review. And please, if you are giving constructive criticism, please provide reasons and/or examples. Thanks!