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Title: The First Prince and the Messenger
Inspired by: Chapter 37 of the Manga Akagami ni Shirayukihime
Character: Izana Wistalia, Shirayuki, Obi
Rating: General
"Good evening, Your Highness." Obi turned silently, bowing low in my presence, unperturbed that I caught him watching Shirayuki.
"Obi." My eyes lowered and saw the young woman sleeping soundly, a thick blanket covering her person. Surrounding the place she sleeps were piles of books, crumpled papers, fresh parchment and quills that seemed to decorate her dreams. There were smudges of ink on her face and fingertips as she clutched the edge of the blanket in her sleep.
"My apologies for taking too long with my errands. I should have been here to bring them home."
I slowly made my way towards Shirayuki, my fingers running along the lacquered wood backing of the furniture Shirayuki sleeps on. "Can they really sleep in a place littered with books?" I mused.
Obi let out a soft chuckle. "Mistress will always be at home surrounded by books. Ryuu as well. They are both cut from the same cloth, I think."
Indeed. I felt envy creeping into my chest, as I watched Obi's normally poker expression melt at the sight of his Mistress. It was like watching my own brother slowly being drawn into her enigmatic world. Shirayuki never realizes what power she has on hold with these men. Small wonder that even Lord Haruka has lessened his hostility against her after he came back from his tutor lessons. Shirayuki compels anyone who come within her periphery to become enamored of her presence soon enough. One just need to be patient to get to know her better.
I almost expected Obi to touch her face, but he straightened and looked at me in the eye.
"Master Zen has instructed me to take care of them, of her. So, if you need to focus on other more important engagements, Your Highness need not bother himself to look after the Mistress. I will fulfill my duties as required by Master."
I tightened my jaw, feeling irritated at the underlying message he spoke. How dare he speak to me this way! I almost opened my mouth to tell him off, when Shirayuki's breath quickened, distracting the two of us.
She turned a little slowly, snuggling into the chair, and burying herself deeper within the warmth of the blanket. I almost wish I found her first so I can study her sleeping face up close again.
"Very well." My wants and needs are not in priority here. I am forgetting myself again, just because this impudent messenger is here as my brother's eyes and ears. "I trust my brother has enough sense when he relegated the role of babysitting to you. Again." I added with a touch of irony. I still have not forgotten how Obi failed to protect Shirayuki before, resulting in her abduction.
Something glint on Obi's dark eyes. Hurt? Pain? Anger? I struck a nerve, judging by the way he clenched his fists, and the thinning of his mouth. I narrowed my eyes in anticipation, sensing the tension rising within the room.
It took superhuman effort to control whatever deep emotion he felt. But after a few seconds, the dark shadow that flitted across Obi's face cleared.
"I am grateful for both Master and Mistress for the faith they continue to put on me. And if it will cost me my life to serve and protect them, I would gladly give it to them."
I tilted my head, weighing his sincerity. Obi is one of the best fighters I have seen, recalling how he bested my brother before. Though I doubt he will ever win in a duel with me, but I can at least acknowledge that it would be an interesting match if he were to fight me. And he is fleet-footed. Perhaps it is good that he is around. With my own party occupied with supporting the city and acting as messengers to bring my correspondences all over the country, Obi is the best person to look after the woman. He would ensure Shirayuki, and Ryuu are well taken care of even when I'm not around.
I backed down, realizing that it is more prudent to have Zen's nimble messenger around than have him thrown into the Keep's dungeon. He certainly has his usefulness.
"Are you sure I cannot use you?" I jested, relaxing a little.
Obi's tense countenance faded and assumed a relax pose as well. "Forgive me, Your Highness; unless Master Zen orders me to, I won't raise a finger."
Before I can even say anything to counter his condition, a soft crash can be heard, and I heard a faint voice say "Ouch."
"You better go and see what your other charge is up to." I told Zen's messenger, who is already halfway towards the shelves where the noise came from.
"Little Ryuu, why are you still up?" I heard Obi called, and I took this momentary diversion to take another step towards Shirayuki, lowering my finger to touch her cheek, partially covered by the blanket. She continued her peaceful sleep, and I was filled with longing just looking at her face.
"Sleep tight, princess. The road ahead is rough." I murmured to her, wishing things are simple.