Royal Romance

Chapter One

The Encounter

"It's that time again, Zeref," Natsu Dragneel, second prince of Fiore groaned as he flopped down on his brother's bed in the latter's chambers. "We have to go through that stupid procession through Magnolia, again."

Zeref Dragneel, first prince of Fiore rolled his eyes at Natsu. "It isn't that bad, Natsu," he reasoned. "It lasts only for an hour."

"Yeah," Natsu replied. "One hour of utter boredom."

"Well, you have to do it," Zeref wound up, realizing there was no way to appease his younger brother. "Now, please leave. I have to get ready."

Grumbling, Natsu walked out and into the corridor. As he was slowly walking toward his bedroom, a sudden whirlwind dashed in his direction and knocked him of his feet.

"What the-Wendy?!" Natsu sat up, rubbing his head.

A younger girl with glossy navy blue hair and large brown eyes quickly helped him up. She was Wendy Dragneel, princess of Fiore.

"I'm sorry, Natsu!" Wendy wailed. "I was trying to get to my room fast because I had to change and we have to leave in thirty minutes and-"

Natsu cut her off with an unusual, reassuring smile. "It's okay, Wens," he soothed, ruffling her hair. It's no biggie, 'kay?"

Wendy smiled at him gratefully and then, remembering her task, dashed away. Natsu shook his head with a laugh and continued on to his room.

Thirty minutes later, the procession had begun. The Magnolia citizens gathered by the sides of the road to watch Fiore's royal family. Natsu grinned and waved to everyone (despite the fact that he would willingly skip the procession if given the chance). Wendy waved shyly. Zeref simply smiled.

He ran his eyes over the crowd and then paused. A young girl was standing in the middle. She had long, wavy blonde hair and her jade green eyes were focused on the books in her hands.

She suddenly looked up and her eyes met Zeref's. Her pink lips curved as a slow smile blossomed across her face. It wasn't like the other smiles on the faces of other people. It wasn't eager, laughing or mocking. This was perfectly frank, beautiful and innocent smile. A smile which implied that the two had been friends all their lives. And, Zeref found himself smiling back.

The crowd moved, and Zeref lost sight of her. He continued to walk forward.

He wondered who the girl with the blonde hair and jade eyes and unforgettable smile was.

(A/N): This story suddenly came to me on a whim. So, I thought 'why not write it out?' Hope you enjoyed! Review!