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Title: When a Boy Turns into a Prince

Inspired by: Chapter 9 of the Manga Akagami ni Shirayukihime

Characters: Izana Wistalia, Zen Wistalia

Wordcount:344

Rating: General

"My deepest apologies for the misunderstanding." Zen Wistalia, second Prince of Clarines looked positively contrite as he stood before me. "Prince Raj and I didn't quite agree on some things."

I inclined my head to indicate I am listening to him.

As if he is pulling some deep emotion from within himself, Zen lifted his head high and stood straight. Like a proud soldier, his face slowly broke into a wistful smile.

"I'm not thinking about getting engaged to Shirayuki."

Yet. I thought at the unspoken word between us.

"Nor will I ask you to approve of it."

I'm sure you won't even wait for my approval. The replies continued inside my head.

"There are still a lot of things I wish to accomplish, and though the path I walk lays before me, there are times, I needed to make a few detours to ensure that the path I am taking is the correct one."

Hmmm.

Somehow, Zen Wistalia, with his solemn, yet wistful expression explaining his actions without giving too much detail made me take stock of what I want to achieve with Tanbarun's prince in aiding me to get rid of Shirayuki. It was the first time I hesitated over the course of my actions earlier. This feeling made me a little uneasy.

I needed more time to analyze things. Zen is starting to understand my patterns of handling situations I deemed are a threat to both our working and personal relationship.

I decided then and there that I had pushed Zen enough for the day.

"Come, Zen." I held out my hand out to him, to show that I am willing to postpone this exercise for another day. Besides, I am curious about the changes Shirayuki wrought out of my brother. There's something about his countenance that made me suddenly sit up and listen to what else he has to say.

"I believe I have not introduce you to the education ministers. What do you think of their proposals to build more public schools for the villagers living in the outskirts?"