Hello everyone! How're you all? Finally, the most awaited Kingdom is back! :D

Thanks a lot to Cutetyhil, Seafoam Green under Twilight, Guest, Sohana Sarkar, Black Witch of autumn, Misty'sbigfan (Please change your username, I feel so shy :P), Rayes Reynolds, cc992, Emerald Vivienne Ramira Mayvin, Jyotsna, LadyPeach7 and Sakura for reviewing :D

Guest: Sorry dude, but the next chapter will contain Ray's story. Thank you so much for reviewing :D

Misty'sbigfan: Dude, you really make me blush :P Thank you thank you soo much for your kind gesture :D

Jyotsna: OMG! How did you guess it? Perfect! As a reward, you'll get to read a passionate MaxMari moment in this chapter XD Thank you so much for reviewing :D

Sakura: Aww my sweetheart, no problem, I can understand. Hope your exams have gone well. Thank you so much for reviewing :D

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Today is the birthday of my cousin who's closest to me by age. The Ray Kon of our family, who's really free to me and the real matured one (Just like Ray XD), a slightly ladies-man, a guitarist, has confusion to choose one between Mariah and Salima :P. I always feel very open to talk to him and we talk to each other about almost all the topics of this world. There's an interesting story of his love life, I will tell you later (If he permits). Happy birthday, Redoan! :D

So...enjoy! :D

Finally, the auspicious moment has arrived,

Joys flowed all the directions, serene, vivified,

In the unions of Tala-Julia, Kai-Hilary,

All the Japan has got overwhelmed with glory.

The song began by the instrumentalists as they drummed the membranes of their hollow drums and thumped the strings of their kotos, biwas and other musical tools, creating a beautiful symphony with rhythms. Following the preparative tunes, both the best-men and the maids in honor reached the stage, holding each other's hands. The flames of the scented candles set in the crystal stands watched them, getting brighter. The navy-haired boy was calm and confident, the purplette was shying, panicking a bit, the red-haired princess of Russia had some stoic expressions all over her face and the Spanish prince was on the verge of gulping in fear as his hand was tightly clutched in that of his partner. The Russian princess was a bit annoyed because of the nervousness of the matador prince. He was a matador, not a bull. Why should he be afraid of red?

As they four stood at the center of the room, the music stopped. Turning to everyone and at all the directions, the best men and the maids in honor gave bows. Coughing, Tyson took a step forward while his lover watched him with admiration in her turquoise orbs. The phoenix-prince and his newly wedded wife were eagerly waiting for the speech of the dragoon-wielder. Giving them a hearty smile, the bestman started:

"Honorable emperor and empress of Japan, honorable emperors, empresses, princes and princesses invited from different kingdoms across the world, the grooms and the brides who are the lights of this auspicious and gorgeous ceremony and all other respected invited guests, accept the greetings of Tyson Granger, the chief-commander of Japan.

Today is the day when the destiny of the princess of Japan has been determined, finally. Now, she's the crown-princess as well as the future empress of Russia. About the prince of Russia, well, there is really not much to say. The more the words will come, the less his significance become.

I met prince Kai Hiwatari for the first time in the royal guesthouse of Japan where he was invited to stay after his mission of murdering demoness Katherine. I…." Tyson nervously chuckled, staring at the peaceful eyes of the phoenix-prince, "Actually our first meeting was a disaster. I won't be dishonest; I was kind of jealous of him and wanted to prove my worth. For it, unknowingly, I hurt a lot of people," Glancing at his best friend and her husband once, he stared at the purplette who was lowering her head, behind him, "At first, I want to apologize again to all the persons who were hurt because of me. Please, pardon me."

Fretful, the dragoon-wielder gaped at the Russian prince as the latter nodded in agreement, peacefully smiling. Hilary also silently assured him through her ruby eyes. Tyson might have committed mistakes in the eyes of others, then again, he'd learnt from his errors. He truly wanted to refrain from the same faults in his life. Kai understood that Tyson had no dirt in his heart. In fact, he was like a white paper which itself was clear but cleanliness was its only guilt, or say weakness, where everyone could easily splash ink and the stains were exposed more but his white nature and innocence couldn't be ignored at all. Kai, Hilary, Dew, the emperor, his grandpa-in fact, everyone had to forgive him.

"Anyways," Tyson felt relieved, getting everyone's kind stare at him, "I consider myself very fortunate because of meeting, fighting and befriending such a valiant, patriotic, selfless, generous, determined and patient warrior in my life. I feel really proud of myself because I've been successful to erase my flaws only because of prince Kai Hiwatari.

In every wedding, the bestman speaks only about the groom. But, as an exception, today, I'd like to speak about the bride, Hilary Tachibana, the honorable princess of Japan."

The brunette was enthusiastic to listen from the navy-haired guy. Beaming at her, Tyson continued:

"Princess Hilary Tachibana and I are best friends since our childhood. Usually, the friendship of a boy and a girl isn't seen very positively in our society. But thankfully, from His Majesty of Hayashi Tachibana and her Majesty of Sayoko Tachibana, we faced no restriction regarding our friendship. Our friendship is pure and unstained. Since the very beginning, princess Hilary used to boss around me always…hehehe…well, she does it still. But really, Hilary, you're such an amazing friend whom I've got in my life as a blessing. I was never able to tell you it but now I am saying, before all the honorable guests that I consider myself very fortunate to get a sweet, caring, protective best friend like you."

The ruby eyes of the brunette started brimming with tears at the emotional, heart-touching words of the dragoon-wielder. There had been fights and banters between them. Sometimes, they hadn't talked to each other for a few days, even a week. Usually, he'd been the one to come to her and ask for forgiveness. She had also apologized to him for a few times whenever the mockeries had taken place. But that moment, Tyson really made her life blissful with his words and the sudden oral manifestations.

"I really pray to God that you may both be very happy and blessed in your life," Tyson finished his speech, "Lead a peaceful, beautiful and divine married life. Thank you."

When he stepped back, for a few moments, the audience was silent. Then, everyone stood up along with the brides and grooms and started clapping together, applause rained there. Dew happily came beside him and whispered, "Good job, Tyson. I'm proud of you."

"Thanks." He shortly replied.

It was the turn of Dew. She was a bit introvert, never speaking in front of the public. That's why, she was feeling nervous. But when she gave a nervous stare at the dragoon-wielder, he gave an assuring nod and muttered, "Speak whatever springs from your heart, Dew. I know you can do it. Good luck!"

Taking a sharp breath, she approached and bowed to everyone very humbly. Her speech was like it:

"I greet every invited guest in the wedding ceremony of prince Kai Hiwatari, the prince of Russia and princess Hilary Tachibana, the princess of Japan who is my elder sister. Everyone in this world says that elder sister is the second mother. They are right. To me, oni-chan was always more than a sister. She was my best friend to whom I could open myself up. She was by my side when the whole world ditched me. She saved my life, heart, honor and feelings every time. She's an affectionate sister, a doting mother, a beautiful friend, a wise advisor and really an amazing person at the same time.

I would also like to thank prince Kai Hiwatari, my brother-in-law, from the core of my heart for accepting my amazing elder sister with utmost love and respect as his life-partner. Oni-chan is really very fortunate to get a husband like him in her life who will respect her choices and opinions, save her from dangers, listen to her, trust her and adore her always. I pray for you both so that you can be happy in your married life. Stay blessed, stay together, by each other's side. Thank you."

Her words were simple but they really shot the hearts of the groom and the bride. Hilary wiped her eyes very carefully. Right after it, she felt a hand on her shoulder. That belonged to her husband. All the speeches and words of the best-man and the maid in honor came true. He'd support her and be right by her side always, she had no problem to realize it. She smiled back at him, clarifying that she was fine amidst the rain of thousands of clapping hands. When Dew got back to her position, Tyson whispered in her ears, "I loved your speech, you speak so beautifully." Dew blushed again, softly tittering and covering her eyes.

Shortly after it, Raul and Natasha made their speeches towards Tala and Julia. Raul was a tad panicky and while speaking, his feet were shaking. But his voice was smooth and words were loveable, Natasha couldn't help adoring his verbal expressions. As for Natasha, her words were way more cheerful and candid than her partner. Raul was getting red and warm at the continuous dance of her eyes and frank but gentle laughter every time. Both Tala and Julia giggled at Natasha's speech by fits and starts, almost slumping on each other but when they realized what they were doing, they shot bashful stares at each other. Raul was shy, Natasha was fierce and filled with energy.

It was the turn to dance after the speeches. Soon, all the young unmarried guys and girls stepped in the floor as the elders went from the spot to their space, giving some privacy to the children but taking the brides and grooms along with them for a proper family introductory session. Bryan and Ian were seeking the chances to flirt and spend some time with Mariam and Dew. Specially, the carrot-nosed muttered to the falcon-prince after having the sight of the bronze-skinned peacock of Japan, "You were right, brother Bryan. Japan is really very hot."

"But the heat is increasing now," Bryan pretended to fan himself with his hand, "Because the fire is doubled, right?"

"Yet," Ian wrapped his hands around Bryan's neck, "I want to jump in the fire."

"But the fire is bound in a fireplace!"

Petrified, both the Russians turned back to the voice where the navy-haired chief-commander of Japan was standing, putting his hands on his waist. Over his shoulder, the purple-haired girl was secretively peeping at the carrot-nosed guy, making a scared attitude which literally burnt all the hopes of the cobra-prince. Tyson eyed him, viewing every inch of his body. At that time, the auburns of the dragoon-wielder appeared more venomous than the sacred spirit of the dwarf Russian.

"Sorry," Tyson smirked, "But stepping forward is restricted. Why don't you dance all yourselves?"

"Dancing ourselves?" The lilac-haired prince held the waist of Ian, making everyone sweatdrop and titter, "Like this."

"Perfect!" The indigo-head clapped, "Now go on. Dew, come with me."

Peacefully, the purple-haired princess held the hand of her partner as he led her to the dance floor in a delicate and gentle away just like carrying a bouquet of roses. Ian pouted at it but Bryan didn't give up. He progressed to the blunette who was chattering with the orange-haired American until another girl stood in front of the falcon-prince, spreading her arms protectively and not letting him go. Chestnut brown hair was curly, reaching her waist and bangs covering her forehead. Wearing orange-green kimono designed in abstract patterns, her eyes were baby-blue, filled with zeal and excitement. Hands worn green gloves, she seemed to hide something between two of her fingers. Grabbing the arms of Bryan, she squealed which sounded a bit abnormal to the ears of the falcons, "Finally! I've found my dance-partner!"

Everyone in the dance hall turned the heads and looked at the stranger girl. Emily and Mariam immediately burst out laughing, holding each other tightly. Dew giggled, hiding herself in Tyson's chest as the latter almost exploded the hall with the sound of his titters. Michael was silent, only chuckling devilishly. The Russian princes were the poorest ones, just gawking confusedly at one another though the falcon blushed fifty shades of red. Yeah, she was looking cuter than Mariam in his eyes.

"O, the mighty prince of Russia," Adding too much sugar to her voice, the girl pleaded, "Bless me by having a dance with me."

"S…sure…." Bryan dropped a bead of sweat on his neck and enclosed her petite waist somehow. The music began, so did the dance of the couples. There were the same admiration and the feelings between Tyson and Dew. Surprisingly, Dew wasn't feeling shy anymore to get her eyes locked at his. The nervousness which had been prevailing in the dance of the last night was no more. Though her cheeks were pinkish, she didn't remove her stares from him. His auburn pools held so much faith, infatuation, relief and admiration for her. Mariam was playing an instrument, not taking part in the dance…well, because her partner was seeming absent, apparently. Emily was quite shorter than Michael but she was also confident, raising her chin to see the face of her boyfriend. Natasha was amazed at the courage of Raul when he stretched a hand towards her. Nonetheless, accepting his offer, she went towards the dance floor and performed with him. He was a skilled dancer but he was struggling much to look at her eyes. That annoyed her slightly but she didn't mind.

'He's feeling so shy to look at me…' Natasha thought, "Maybe I should have been nicer with him…'

'She's behaving so nice with me all of a sudden….' Pondered Raul, 'Does she like me? Or do I like her?'

The princess of America was enjoying the dance, standing at a corner until she saw a rectangular wooden box placed before her. On the lid, a lotus with pink and red petals were painted with green curvy vines spreading horizontally at both sides. Charlotte didn't know that someone could offer her a dance by stretching a box in front of her, not a hand. Pondering, she discovered the green-haired Japanese.

"Princess Tate," Joseph lowered his head, "I'm really sorry for ruining the box of the dress yesterday. If you accept it, I'll be much relieved and honored."

Charlotte looked at the box, then once at his face. He was truly ashamed and feeling guilty. The princess also felt sorry for him. She shouldn't have been so rude with him. Calling a maid, she spoke, "Keep the casket in my chamber."

"It wasn't like the previous box but I made it myself, along with the design on the top," The elephant-wielder swallowed, "I hope you've liked it. Pardon me again for the yesterday's incident."

As the maid went to her room with the box, she turned to Joseph and smiled, "You don't need to apologize, gentleman. Mistakes happen."

"Thanks for your forgiveness and kind gesture, princess Tate," The greenette's face became bright, "Mind if I give you a proposal?"

"Yes?" Charlotte was befuddled.

"Would…would you…" Joseph fiddled with his fingers, "Would you like to have a dance with me?"

The ocean-eyed brunette gasped and flushed at the offer at first. Biting her lips, she thought a bit. Almost all the girls were dancing or performing in a way or another. Only she was left alone at a corner. She didn't know whether her brother would see it positively or not. Therefore, she had full faith on her brother. Max wasn't that protective of her like the Russian princes of their only sister. Well, he was protective and possessive but as long as her consent was involved, he would not mind.

"It's okay…" Joseph lost a little hope, "If you don't want to dance…"

"No, no problem," Charlotte shook her head, "I'd surely like to dance with you."

Joseph's face became brighter as he gently held the hand of the American princess; they both reached the dance floor. His touches were gentle but nervous. Charlotte was the youngest of all the girls, she did never have the feeling of love or something like that. But the dance seemed very enjoyable to her, of course. She started living those moments.

"Aaaaaa!"

All the pairings and remaining single persons looked at the falcon-prince who was itching his neck and cheeks desperately. His white porcelain face became red and swollen. While scratching those places, he was hopping like a rabbit which really superseded the dance of Dew too. Everyone was looking at him, horrified but amused at the same time. Mariam sneered, 'You came to dance with me, huh? And what did you say? You cannot dance yourself? Now who's dancing himself, prince Kuznetsov?'

"Brother!" Ian cried, rushing to him, "What happened to you?"

"Don't know," Bryan's nails were still brushing those areas, "I-I was just dancing with the lady and she was rubbing my neck and cheeks. Suddenly…ugh!"

"Cold water!" Spencer demanded, "Bring cold water! Soon!"

Some maids and servants rushed to obey the order. The female blunette glanced all over the perplexed dance hall. Nope, where was that strange lady? She couldn't be seen there.

The shark-princess didn't need to wait much. Soon, grabbing her wrist, someone pulled her out, pinning her against a pillar behind the swaying red silk curtains.

"Max!" She was about to scream but the kimono-worn boy grabbed her mouth, pressing her lips under his palm. Immediately, she went redder than a tomato, breathing hard. She remembered the punishment which they all'd given to Max: To dance with Bryan disguising as a girl and rub some allergic leaves on his neck and face. Since the gloves were green, the same shade of the leaves, Bryan hadn't known it right then. However, Max was clever sometimes and adventurous too.

"Don't expect always that I will shush you with my lips, Mari," The American cupped her face in his hands, "Sometimes, learn to have control over your voice too."

"She has control over her voice, Maxie," From nowhere, the orange-haired girl peeped at the American over the shoulder of the blunette, hugging her from behind, "You have control on your hands and feet."

"Well said, Mily." Mariam chuckled.

"Emily, you're looking beautiful too today," Max gave a toothy smile, "What's the magic, huh? Michael magic?"

"Duh, shameless!"

Blushing a tad, the female scholar rushed back. Mariam was about to follow her but Max again clasped her wrist from behind. Sticking her against the designed composite column, he lowered his mouth to her jaw and snuggled against her chin, travelling through her collarbone and neck. His small thin lips brushed her chin, cheeks, nose and pectoral areas, she was enjoying it. In pleasure, her eyes were on the verge of getting closed since she blew off the lamps kept in the floral lamp-stand, the environment became dark. Raising his face, he leaned on her, putting his sapphires on her emeralds. Mariam's heartbeat rose, with her hands, she clutched his neckline. Their lips were going to crash each other soon. Breaths were getting warm…warmer…way warmer….

"Max! Mariam!" Tyson's restless pitch became audible to them as they broke apart, gasping, "Where the hell are you both?"

"Coming!" Max sounded, "Mariam, let me change the dress at first, then we'll go to dance, okay?"

"Sure." The blunette nodded. Smiling, the blonde ran into his chamber. After a few moments, he came back and entered the dance hall, holding the hand of the royal blue-haired girl. All the young people burst out applause seeing the sweet-sassy couple. Max led Mariam towards the dance floor and wrapped his arms protectively around her waist, giving a naughty stare at the falcon-prince who immediately got burnt in envy. Music restarted; the couples began to dance again. Holding the blunette closer, Max made intricate footsteps and hers matched with his. While moving away from the other pairs, the draciel-wielder whispered, "How was the trick, Mari?"

"Maxie-like." She winked at which he giggled, decreasing the gap between themselves and deepening the dance, leaning his nose on hers. She closed her eyes, blushing and smiling. The best moments of her life were passing by as the hyperactive American was lifting her, twirling her and holding her every time.

'Hold me like this forever, Max….' Mariam prayed, 'Don't leave me.'

Soon, it became the lunch time. All the guests took their seats on navy-blue velvet golden chairs, around the round tables adorned with silky table-covers embroidered with silver and red threads, having floral designs. On them, in terracotta and wooden vases, hydrangeas and tulips were decorated. Tyson became busy again, totally forgetting to eat before serving though he'd been eager for this part of the ceremony since the beginning of the day. After all, he was the chief organizer and coordinator of the wedding. He should take care of everything. That's why, he was performing his duties as perfectly as possible. Fetching two big platters for the brides and grooms, he placed them on the rectangular table under the georgette awning bedecked with gladiolas where Tala, Julia, Kai and Hilary were sitting.

The plates were gorgeously decorated with twenty different dishes in silver bowls and the piles of rice at the center. Spoons, forks and sushi-sticks were placed by the trays. The dishes were traditional Japanese, Russian and Spanish. At a corner, in a bamboo basket, fresh, seasonal sweet fruits were piled up. Jugs contained juice and honeyed milk. Non-veg, veg, desserts, appetizers-the smell of all the staples was mouthwatering. The navy-haired guy somehow controlled himself.

"Attention!" The dragoon-wielder cleared his throat as everyone looked at him.

"According to the rituals of Japan," Tyson declared, "Before the feast of the guests, the groom and bride will feed each other with his or her own hand."

Kai, Hilary, Tala and Julia-all the four got embarrassed a bit. Only before a few hours, they'd got married. They hadn't thought it that they would have to cherish their love so soon. All the eight eyes dropped to the ground instantly, not feeling comfortable with the ritual so fast. Even the mighty prince of Russia, the descendant of Hiwatari clan, was feeling so bashful all of a sudden. Yet, he didn't forget to give a stare to his bride who blushed more than he.

"Hey!" Bryan called, still getting the herbal ointment applied on the itching areas, "Do quick! We all are hungry!"

Everybody laughed in unison. However, for performing the ritual, the phoenix-prince lifted a sushi ball with the chopsticks and presented it before the mouth of his bride after dipping it in the mustard sauce. All the guests were confused, exchanging stares. They couldn't understand why the Russian was feeding such a simple food to his wife even though he had plenty of gorgeous and delicious dishes before them. But the Japanese princess smirked, guessing the reason within no moment. When the princes of Russia had arrived in Japan first for their mission, she'd sent them the same foods, cooked by herself. Her mouth neared the chopsticks as she blushingly took a gentle bite. Holding the same sticks, the brunette turned it to the mouth of her husband and he happily accepted her leftover, thus, shooting an erstwhile social stigma. Again, Hilary's heart got filled with respect and admiration for her husband. Suppressing the tears of happiness, she thanked the deities wholeheartedly for getting such a pure life-partner like this.

As the claps stopped, Tala sliced the Spanish omelet into two equal halves with a knife. Julia blushed, remembering that it'd been the first staple which she had presented before the wolf-prince when he'd been recovering from his neck injury. Only on that day, she'd realized her feelings for him. They both took the forks. Pinning the pieces of the omelet with the ligneous forks, at the same time, they placed the slices before the mouths of each other and had it. Another round of claps started by it though they didn't notice it. They were still staring deeply at each other's face. The dual-haired Spaniard recalled the predictions of Emily, the warnings of the strange silver-haired lady who'd come to the maidens' night. But she didn't mind them now.

'Tala….' She mused, 'I…I don't know for how long we will be able to spend our lives together. But as long as we both are together, let's make the wedlock memorable in this way. With small events of love and care. With some hilarious moments. With whatever we both can.'

"Okay!" Tyson announced, "The ritual has been successfully completed by our grooms and brides. So, dear guests, you may have the lunch now."

Everybody raised the goblets of beverages and took sips from them, for cheering and blessing the couples. Soon, the members from the brides' party became busy to serve the grooms' party and the other guests. With her sharp eyes, the purple-haired girl noticed that Tyson wasn't looking for a chance to eat though he was the hungriest, as always. Dew thought once to feed him, managing some time or an opportunity but she herself was so indulged in chores that she couldn't gain it. Meanwhile, Natasha started scowling at Raul as the latter stepped back, gulping.

"Asha?" Bryan asked, "What happened? What did this munchkin do this time?"

"Look at my plate!" The princess of Russia aimed at the silver plate before her, "How many loaves he has given to me! Why? Do I look like an elephant? Do I eat that much? Am I fat or what?"

All the five pairs of eyes of the Russian princes struck the Spanish prince who folded his lips in, left at the mercy of his brothers-in-law. Closing his eyes, he prayed so that the Russians didn't do any harm to him this time. Holding the tray of beef noodles, the blonde American smirked at him; his girlfriend giggled. But like a mediator, Tyson went to the place. Bowing, he spoke, "I'm sorry on behalf of him, my lady. Please, have your food. Raul, keep some loaves back."

"Y…yes…." Nodding, the dual-haired prince took some loaves in the basket and gave an apologetic look at the princess. This time, she didn't stare at him annoyedly. Giving a chuckle, she became busy in eating lunch. Sighing in relief, thanking God and avoiding the murderous glances of the Russian princes, Raul came back from the lunch table.

The lunch time became over. The invited guests again gathered in the main hall. The second round of the cultural program would begin within no time. The elder people took their seats in the first floor and the young girls and boys were on the ground floor, sitting on the laid mats before the stage. Only two pairs of chairs were arranged for the brides and the grooms on the round podium. With tradition Japanese, Russian and Spanish musical instruments, all the musicians were prepared. After speeches and other formalities, the first performance was by Max and Emily. They'd rehearsed a lot to memorize the lyrics and tunes of the song composed by the orangette. Max was slightly worried whether he could sing it well or not. Emily was an experienced and professional performer, so it didn't bother her a single bit.

"Hey," The orange-haired girl placed a hand on the shoulder of the blonde to comfort him, "Relax. All you have to only enjoy."

"Thanks, Mily…." He took a sharp breath, "I needed it."

"Good luck then!" Winking, the orange-haired girl showed him a thumb. After a few moments, the instruments started playing together, making the environment light. Emily's throat discharged a honeyed tune with a bit of salt and pepper-mint flavor but it, rather, sounded beautiful.

Goats can be locked with wit

And fishes can be locked in a net,

Men can be locked by women,

All the 12 months, this is the fate.

O, my friend, my mood is down,

I didn't get joy, by loving a clown.

While singing the last line, Emily stared as Michael as the chief-commander of America made a face. All the young people silently laughed; Max naughtily looked at his singing-partner. Coincidently, Judy's eyes fell on her son, she felt a bit hopeful at the partnership of the prince of America and the daughter of her prime-minister. It was the turn of the sugar-addicted boy. His voice was frank, free from all kinds of hesitations and bafflements:

There're a kind of women, like sunflowers,

Yet, gossiping secrets of one to others, spending hours,

Dear, today, there's no joy in my heart,

I didn't get joy in my life, by loving her.

The young people looked at Mariam who was fuming, making a pout and clasping her grips. Max gave a naughty chuckle at her and his singing partner mischievously looked at him, increasing the hope and the excitement of empress Judy Tate who was thinking that Max and Emily were feeling attracted to each other.

The woman who has got a lot of brothers,

Let alone love, to go to her, the secret admirer shudders,

Dear, today, my mood is down,

I didn't get joy in my life, by loving a clown.

When Emily sang those lines, Raul turned redder than the front part of his hair and gaped stealthily at the Russian princess who was giggling in amusement. Charlotte also hung her head low, feeling that Joseph was watching her. All the five Russian princes had proud attitude on their faces. Max began his phrases:

There's a kind of women, with long thick hair,

They bloom flowers in the house all the year,

Peaceful, calm yet an adorable, doting lover,

Even neglected, their love doesn't get over.

Dear, today, there's no joy in my heart,

I didn't get joy in my life, by loving her.

At the first four stanzas, Tyson and Dew stole each other's eyes. Dew blushed, veering her teal orbs down and smiling a bit. Chuckling, Tyson kept listening to the song attentively. It was the turn of Emily:

Love is the truth, love is eternal,

In short, love is a precious gem,

Learn from the phoenix and wolf-masters,

Nipponista-Madridista will teach you, it's not a game.

Dear, today, my mood is down,

I didn't get joy in my life, by loving a clown.

When the first four lines were sung, the phoenix-prince and wolf-prince exchanged happy gazes with their partners, filled with love and admiration for each other. They still were feeling unable to believe that they were married. The songs, the aura, the festivals-everything was looking like a beautiful dream to them. While gazing at one another, they didn't close their eyes, fearing that they would lose their partners when the dream would break. To the two couples, the eternity came to a standstill. The time wasn't passing for them.

When the song ended, everybody clapped together, standing up. The young people whistled and cheered the duo. Bowing, they got down from the stage. Max was struggling a lot to break the annoyance of Mariam and cheer her but Emily didn't need to work that hard to convince Michael. But when the purple-haired girl looked at her love interest, unexpectedly, she found him snoozing. His head was getting curved down and up, up and down. Dew understood that he was tired, getting up before the sunrise and almost handling all the tasks single-handedly. Nearing the dragoon-wielder, she tapped his shoulder, "Tyson?"

"Huh?" Startled, Tyson lifted his head and rubbed his eyes, "Oh, it's you. Sorry…I just…"

"Hm, got it," Dew didn't let him finish, "Come with me."

"Come…with you?" Tyson frowned, "Where?"

"Shush!" The purplette placed her index finger on his lips, "Don't ask. Just come with me now."

As they both stood up, the female almost dragged the male in her room, avoiding the eyes of the elders and other guests. Making him sit on her bed, she examined his face. There were dark circles under his eyes. His cheeks were looking pretty dull. He was seeming weak and exhausted a bit. Dew's heart ached but she maintained the calm expression on her face.

"Tyson, be honest with me," Dew sat beside him, "Is your health fine?"

"I'm fine, Dew," He spoke, "Don't worry."

"You aren't looking fine," The princess was getting insistent, "You woke up today earlier than we. You kept working and organizing everything without any rest. Tyson, tell me, did you eat lunch?"

"No…yes…I mean no," The dragoon-wielder bit his tongue, "Looks like I forgot."

Dew slammed her forehead, dropping her jaw. She felt so difficult to believe his words. Tyson…had forgotten to eat? He was starving? The person who would eat five or six times including major and minor meals on normal days by this moment left his stomach totally empty? She rubbed her eyes and looked at Tyson again. Was the person who was sitting before her with a nervous and puzzled face really Tyson? Or was he someone else, disguising as the navy-haired?

"You….you…." Dew started stammering, "You…really…didn't eat?"

"Nope," Tyson easily shook his head as if it hadn't been a big deal for him, "I really didn't eat."

"Ugh!" Dew sighed, "This Dew had to see this day, that was her fate. Anyways, wait here."

"Why?"

"Don't question so much," The purple-haired girl glared at him, "Just wait."

Making Tyson sit on her bed, she stormed out and returned there within a few moments, with a round plate in her hands having some bread, fresh chicken cutlets and a glass of mango juice. Without giving him a warning, she stuffed his mouth with a piece of bread and half of a cutlet.

"Dew…." Tyson couldn't speak because of the load of foods in his mouth.

"Relax…" The purplette's tone was soothing, "Just like overeating, starving is also very bad for health, you know. Skipping the lunch, you didn't do the right thing, Tyson. Just eat now."

Tyson couldn't protest anymore after it. Slowly, Dew fed him all the dishes. While feeding, her fingers were touching his lips; she was getting shivering sensations around her neck. The dragoon-wielder also fed her sometimes, not eating it all alone. Dew blushed when they shared the juice and Tyson pressed his lips at the same spot of the goblet. After eating, the purplette kept the tray on the side-table and again turned to Tyson, "Now sleep."

"What?" Tyson stood up, springing from the bed, "Are you crazy? How can I sleep now? I have a lot of tasks to do."

"Don't worry about them," Dew assured, "Max ni-san and Raul ni-san will manage them. Now just lie down. You need sleep."

"Hell no," Tyson opposed, "I'm not feeling slee…yaw…py!"

Dew chortled when the navy-haired yawned. Sheepy he felt. That's why, putting off his shoes, he quietly lay down, placing his head directly on Dew's lap. The purple-haired princess felt shy again but she didn't object. Gently, she kept stroking the forehead, patting his back and humming the lyrics of some Japanese lullabies. Tyson purred comfortably, snuggling against her cloths. Despite flushing, Dew lulled him to sleep. When he completely slept, she reposed his head on her pillow and covered him with a blanket up to his chin. Before leaving, she again looked at his tranquil, serene face and brusher her lips on his forehead. Even in slumber, Tyson seemed to smile. Smothering the lamps, she quickly left the room to enjoy the play, starring Max and Mariam.

The rest of the day went as usual. All the boys slept together and the girls' chamber was separate. Tyson had to give the share of the ransom to Max, Raul and the girls though he was unwilling to do that. The nights spent with gossips, games and laughter for both the men and the women.

But when the sun of the next day rose finally in the sky of Japan, along with it, it brought the clouds of estrangement and grief of bidding farewell to her darling daughter. Getting up early and completing bath, both the brunette and the dual-haired princess adorned themselves with white gowns with golden peacock-feather paintings and drapery sleeves having rhombus patterns. Hilary's surcoat was red, possessing golden Sakura flowers. Having the same design, Julia's over-garment was olive. Both worn gold-rimmed waistbelts and shoulder-chains, chocker necklaces made of rubies and emeralds embraced their necks and the same gems dangled from their earlobes, studded with tussles. Garnet and jade-made semicircular tiaras encircled half of their heads, attaching the georgette auric veils and golden circlets wrapped their temples. For beautifying their braids, they used gold-made hairclips and fresh roses.

Ornamented in the jewelries like the brides of Russia, they came before their mothers, not raising their heads. The queens of Japan and Spain had already got their eyes drenched. Wiping them, they approached their daughters.

"Hilary…" Sayoko murmured, "You were always a beloved child-not only to us, but also to entire Japan. We all are proud of you and will be forever. Make our head outstretched even in Russia too. My…my girl…."

Sayoko's voice trembled but she continued, "My princess, I-I have always taught you that for a wife, her husband is her world. Keep your world always happy. Respect his choices and obey his orders which can bring welfare to your family. Don't let his honor get stained ever. My girl, a wife is the attire of her husband and a husband as the attire of his wife. Just like a cloth protect a person from dishonor, heat and coldness as well as increases his beauty and personality, you have to do the same to prince Hiwatari. Never let him be sad."

"I will follow all your words, mother," Hilary spoke, "I'll fulfill my responsibilities towards him as a wife, as a friend and as a lover always."

"Julia, I know that you are well-aware of your duties," Fumika advised, "But I'd like to tell you something else. Since prince Hiwatari is the crown-prince and the future emperor of Russia, never feel jealous of Hilary. She's always your cousin and sister before being sister-in-law. Besides, obey her words always even if you're elder a bit but she has a greater rank than you have."

"Hilary, you too," Sayoko added, "Even if you become the empress, never forget that Julia is your sister. Treat her always how you have kept treating her before your marriage. Don't be blind in the pride of your rank. Respect your mother-in-law and aunts-in-law how you respect me and aunt Fumika, aunt Judy. Love and respect your brothers-in-law and sister-in-law how you love and respected Max, Raul, Julia, Dew and Charlotte."

"We'll remember everything, aunt Sayoko," Julia assured her, "Also, I'll take full care of Hilary. She'll be happy as long as I'm with her."

"And Julia will face no problem as long as I'm with her, aunt Fumika," The brunette conversed, "You don't worry about us."

"We don't want to worry, my child," Fumika bit her lips, "We have full confidence on you both. But….we don't want to bid farewell to our daughters so soon."

"Mother!" Julia immediately hugged the empress of Spain and Hilary embraced her own mother. All the four ladies of two different generations sobbed in unison. Sayoko remembered how Hilary had been eager to learn cooking in her childhood and Julia chewing the apple. For Fumika, Julia had always been far from her. She couldn't have spent much time with her daughter. She'd been in Japan, accompanying Hilary. Their bond was so tight that often Fumika had joked and spoken, "We have to get you both married in the same house." Who had known that her joke would come true in the reality?

"Mother," Breaking the hug, Hilary asked, amidst sobs, "Where…where's Tyson?"

"He's in his chamber," Sayoko wiped her tears, "Meet him once."

"Sure." Nodding, the princess of Japan pulled her feet fast and stood before the open door of the room of her childhood friend. The dragoon-wielder was standing there in front of the swaying curtains of the windows, placing his hands on his waist and facing the open sky, white clouds passing by, drenched in the shimmering sunlight of the fresh, early morning. Standing at the doorway, Hilary cleared her throat, "Tyson?"

"Yes?" The dragoon-wielder didn't face her.

"I knew I would find you here," Hilary screwed her brows, "Where did you go?"

"I'm sorry Hil…." Tyson bit his tongue, "I mean, your Highness."

Thunderclap fell on the head of the brunette. Her best friend…ever since he'd learnt to talk, he'd never addressed her as a princess, let alone the honorary ranks. What happened to him all of a sudden? Why was he behaving like it?

"Eh?" She raised a brow, "What did you call me?"

"Along with being the princess of Japan, you're the crown-princess of Russia too now," Tyson answered, "Whereas, I'm still a general commander-in-chief. You should not forget your rank, nor should I."

"Tyson…" She murmured, "Since when have ranks started coming between our friendship?"

He was silent but tears filled her eyes. Covering her mouth, she sniffed, "Tyson, is our friendship so cheap and vulnerable that it cannot exist even after my marriage and departure? Tell me, Tyson!"

He couldn't tolerate her tears. That's why, rotating back, he rushed to her and squeezed her shoulders gently. When she looked at him, he gave a sympathetic smile.

"Hilary, calm down…." He soothed her, "I was just kidding. You're still like the same eight-year old Hilary who cannot take a joke, you know."

"And you're the same toddler Tyson…" Even weeping, Hilary pouted, "Who leaves no stone unturned to tease me."

"No matter what happens," The navy-haired assured, "Our friendship will remain same, forever. Nobody will be able to put a single crack on the well-built wall of our friendship, got it?"

"Yeah," Hilary rubbed her cheeks, "Tyson, will you listen a few words of me?"

"Sure." Tyson nodded.

"Take care of your health," The brunette advised, "Don't indulge in too much eating and sleeping. You're the chief-commander of Japan, you have to stay fit and healthy for the sake of our kingdom."

"Of course!"

"And…" Hilary added, "Take care of mother and father. Also, take care of Master Ryu. Never hurt him and misbehave with him. He won't be able to take it, you know."

"I'll remember your words, Hilary."

"Finally," The princess took a sharp breath, "Take care of my little sister, Dew. The hopes which you've raised in her heart, the dreams which you've shown her…please, never let them shatter. Already she has tolerated a lot of rejections and pains in her life. Now, she deserves some happiness. Give her that."

"Hilary…" Tyson mused, huffing, "Even if you didn't tell me it, I would do the same. Dew is not only my childhood friend anymore, but also the person who has given me a new life. I'll always love her and treat her like my queen even though I am not a king."

"Thank you so much, Tyson…." The bride of Russia cried, "I-I will be grateful to you forever!"

"Unfair!" Tyson cried, "Before a while, you told me that we are best friends and now you are pushing me away by thanking me?"

"Oh…" Hilary simpered, "I'm sorry…."

"Again?!"

"Okay okay, I won't tell them…." The brunette followed a few moments of pause, "I'll miss you so much, Tyson."

"I'll miss you too, Hilary…." Tyson felt a lump in his throat. He was with Hilary since the age of two. They'd played, gone to forest for hunting wild boars, to marketplaces in disguise together. Their education had also been completed together. He'd taught the brunette archery, kendo-fighting and other few skills of warfare. In return, she'd taught him to win the hearts of animals and birds, along with some skills of taking care of the plants. They were best friends; their bond was unbreakable. Now, Hilary was going to leave him. How would he bear so much grief? Tears blinded his auburn orbs; he turned his face away. Hilary again sniffed, noticing it.

"Hey…." Tyson moved at her, "You're going to be the empress of Russia and a queen should never cry. She has to smile proudly always, okay? Besides, when you cry, you look like an owl, Hilary. Why to ruin your beautiful face and eyes?

"Duh, liar!" Hilary chortled immediately.

"So, empress…." The navy-haired spoke, "Let me leave you safely to your emperor. We should not take the exam of his patience anymore, should we?"

"Yeah….." Hilary looked at the open sky, "Let's go."

Outside, there was a huge crowd. Trumpets were playing, so were the drums. The symphonies had the vibes of separation, farewell and grief. Even in the sunlight-twinkling sky, there were the unseen gray clouds, floating in ambiguity. Raul was wiping his tears. Since his childhood, he'd had to leave without his twin sister. Coming to Japan, he'd got a few days to spend with her but they eventually came at an end. Natasha looked at him sympathetically, feeling bad for him.

"Mariam…." The dual-haired bride hugged the female blunette, "Pardon me for all my misbehavior and ill words. Please, don't feel bad remembering them. I've hurt you a lot, I'm sorry!"

"No, Julia, not at all…." Mariam patted her back, "We were children then. Besides, we're friends and friends should not feel bad at the words of one another. I've also taunted you a lot, forget them and smile, okay?"

"Dew…." Hilary enfolded the shoulders of her adoptive sister, giving her a hug, "Stay happy and take care of Tyson, okay?"

"Sure, oni-chan…." She sobbed, "I'll miss you so much! Who'll make me mochis now? Who'll guide me? Who'll console me?"

"There's a person who will always be right by your side even after my departure," Hilary looked at Tyson, "Don't worry."

Going to Max, she smiled a bit, "Decrease your restlessness a bit, okay? Sometimes, patience is useful."

"Sis…." Hugging his cousin, the blonde burst into tears. Hilary silently cried, patting his back.

"Raul, take care," Julia caressed the head of her brother, "Don't cry. You're a brave prince, okay? Be happy."

"You too, sister…." Raul pulled her in an embrace, "You too."

"Remember my words, Hilary, Julia…" Coming to the brides, Emily whispered, "You both have really shown the proof of actual courage and determination. Don't let them get broken, okay?"

"Never, Emily." Julia assured her, "You also take care and be happy with Michael, okay?"

Emily blushed, looking at her love interest. Finally, it was the turn of the fathers. Rushing to them like little girls, Hilary and Julia both burst into tears, not able to retain them anymore. The kings gently stroked their backs, holding them closer. Tears were coming in their eyes too but they were emperors, the rulers of Japan and Spain. Crying before the public didn't suit them. But it didn't mean that they weren't in pain. Their pain was the most silent, yet, the sheerest. The brunette and the dual-haired kept crying like babies, drenching the royal attires of their fathers. They could never have imagined that they would have to spend a day without the fathers. Now, without them, they had to spend the rest of their lives.

Holding my finger,

You had taught me how to walk, right,

Now make me cross this threshold, it's a little too high.

O my father, I'm your princess,

I'm a piece of my heart,

Make me cross this threshold once again.

Don't look back, O beloved,

O sweetheart,

Don't turn back and look.

The brides made their ways to the golden palanquins, decorated with velvet red shawls and gemstones. Holding the hands of his son-in-law, Hayashi Tachibana pleaded, "Kai, today, not as an emperor, but as a father, I'm begging to you. Please, keep my daughter happy!"

"Tala, my Julia never faced any problem in her life, she hardly shed tears," Sebastian Fernandez requested the redhead, "Please, don't make her precious tears fall."

"Father Hayashi…" Kai held the hands of the Japanese king, "You don't worry about Hilary. She'll be as happy in Russia as she was in Japan. Same goes for princess Julia."

"Your Majesty," Tyson stood beside the king, "Have faith on prince Kai and prince Tala. They'll not let the daughters of Japan and Spain feel sad ever. I've full belief on them."

The grooms ascended their stallions. Approaching the palanquin of the princess of Japan, Tyson held one of its handles and lifted it along with Max while Romero and Raul carried the palanquin of Julia. Tyson felt it heavy all of a sudden. His shoulders convulsed, he felt as if he'd been going to sacrifice Hilary somewhere. Ill feelings, unknowingly, were burning in his stomach. Nonetheless, he carried his legs which were seeming very weighty, rooted deep in the soil. Behind them, the parents and others kept crying, so did the people of Japan. Like Hayashi Tachibana and Sayoko Tachibana, they too loved princess Hilary a lot.

Reaching the shore of the river from where the chariots would proceed, the palanquins stopped. The royal guests of Russia got into the carriages.

"Tyson," Pulling the curtains of her vehicle a bit, Hilary spoke, "Remember what I told you."

"I'll," The blunette nodded, wiping his eyes, "You too, Hil. Don't forget this Tyson Granger sitting on the throne of the empress, okay?"

"Crazy," She sobbed in smiles, "How can I forget you?"

"Take care." Tyson breathed.

"You too."

With that, the wheels of the carriages started sliding on the ground. Hilary and Tyson kept waving at each other in tears until their sight faded before the eyes of each other. Kneeling down on the ground, Tyson touched the mark of the wheels. Tears exploded from his auburn orbs; heart ached in the estrangement from his best friend. Painful he was feeling.

"Tyson…."

Someone placed a hand on his back, bending down a bit. Discovering that the person was none but Dew, the navy-haired got up and wiped his tears.

"This is the fate of girls, Tyson," Dew commented, looking forward, "No one can change it, you know. Not you, not me, not anyone else in this world."

"Hmm…" Tyson sighed with his bloodshot eyes, "Let's go back, Dew."

Heyy! How was it? Good or bad? :P

There'll be another KaiHil one-shot this month, on the 13th which will be a sci-fi! Thus, I'll complete all the genres on my favorite pairing. Wish me luck :D And in the next chapter, there'll be another wedding. Come there in time :P

Do read and review. Pardon the grammatical and spelling errors because I haven't re-read it, thanks to the birthday ceremony of my cousin *Rolls eyes at him*. Take care and stay safe :D

-Misty ^_^ ^_^