"So you two didn't know about your 'friend's' little secret?"

Aikawa and Sumi glanced at each other before looking back at the King, shaking their heads. They honestly didn't know about Manami's...well Misaki's problem. Sumi had his suspicions that 'Manami' was not a nobel, or as rich, since the other's speech and mannerism reflected that of a commoners and Aikawa had never seen the other naked or somewhat indecent. Even when she was helping 'her' dress up 'she' was already in a petticoat and corset although she had chalked it up to 'Manami' being shy. Not...well Manami being Misaki and Misaki being a boy. But despite being surprised they were more shocked to hear that Misaki, of all people, would be a spy. Or claimed to be one.

Misaki was the most kindest, although slightly aloof, person they had met. Royal or not. The idea of him being an evil mastermind was beyond comprehension. But despite the two being unconvinced the King seemed to believe that Misaki was indeed a spy and a threat to the kingdom. He had halted the castle's staff, from lowly maid to advisors, to confront each and every one of them about Miskai. As it turns out, Misaki rarely talked to anyone outside of Akihiko. Well...except for two others.

The King narrowed his eyes at the two, looking them over. "You are the only two people Misaki has personally spoken too for long periods at a time. Never once did you suspect that he may be an imposter?"

Aikawa was the first to speak, shaking her head. "No, your highness." she said, bowing her head a little. "She-er...He was a little strange but I thought he was simply shy."

"We had no idea." Sumi added in, nodding along with Aikawa.

"I don't know if I trust what you two have to say." The King walked around the two who were on their knees, heads down and hands on their lap. "You two don't have the best reputation. A gossiping maid...a nosy scribe. Maybe you were working along with him."

The two tensed and Sumi hesitated before speaking, "Your Highness, we would never. I've been working for you since I was a boy. Miss Aikawa has also been here for many years."

"We honestly had no idea, your highness. We are just as shocked as you are."

There was a moment of silence before the King nodded slowly, "I'll let you go for now. But I'll be watching you two. Even if you had no idea of Misaki's identity...he was still your friend, correct? I would forget about him, if I were you. No need to do something foolish for a liar." he waved the two off. They got up quickly and bowed to him before leaving the room.

Once out of earshot Aikawa sighed, letting go of the breath she had been holding. She looked at Sumi with a frown, "Do you honestly believe that-"

"No." Sumi said, shaking his head. He sighed as well, pushing his hair back. "It's ridiculous to think Man...Misaki would have made this all up. Or that he would have the ability to."

"I agree but there's so many questions. Like why Misaki, if he wasn't a spy, came here in the first place?"

"Perhaps as a favor? Filling in for someone? Maybe he had a crush on one of the Princes-"

"Oh, Prince Akihiko!" Aikawa suddenly said, frowning and putting her hands on her chest. "He must be heart broken. The two liked each other a lot. I can't imagine what he's going through."

"That's another thing-Misaki obviously likes him back. The two were hanging all over each other. It just doesn't seem like he would play the Prince like that." Sumi was silent for a moment before shaking his head, "It just doesn't make sense…"

"Either way, I'm afraid of what will happen to them." Sumi and Aikawa shared a look of concern before they turned away. Aikawa sighed, grabbing her broom that she had left at the end of the hall. "I just hope Misaki's alright…"

"Why don't you love me like I love you?...What does Akihiko have that I don't have?"

"I just...Akihiko...I-...Please, wait-"

Haruhiko stared at the pink piece of cloth in his hands, thumb running over the smooth texture. He had been playing the scene over and over in his head, trying to find some sort of flaw. Something that would reveal Misaki for the spy he was. Reveal any sign of trickery or dishonesty. Anything that would anger Haruhiko and make him burn the piece of fabric in his hand and let Misaki rot in the cell below the castle.

But despite thinking for hours he couldn't find anything wrong. He remembered sneaking away from the party to find a few moments of peace and quiet. He remembered running into Misaki (Or Manami, then) standing outside in the cold and quiet night. Brown hair being dusted with snow, arms crossed to keep in whatever warmth he had, pink dress being illuminated in the moonlight, making him look like a perfect rose…

Then they argued. Misaki had looked so scared and worried. Maybe Haruhiko was coming on too strong but he was frustrated and angry that he couldn't have 'her'. That 'she' wouldn't look at him the same way 'she' looked at all the love and affection he had craved.

The rest after that was a blur that led to a fight between the two brothers, a stern warning from his father and eventually led him to where he was now. Sitting on his bed and wondering where he had gone wrong. Perhaps Misaki was a spy, sent here to steal information or cause trouble within the Castle. After all it would explain why Misaki was pretending to be a noble and why he was getting closer to the Prince. It would be easier to...do whatever Misaki was planning if he had inside help.

But...why Akihiko? Yes, he was royalty but he wasn't next in line for the throne. Nor did he show any interest in any political affairs. He simply lived in the Castle only sometimes involving himself in royal duties. It was Haruhiko who was involved in politics, who knew more about the inner workings of the castle. He was even the one next in line to becoming King. It would have benefited Misaki more to go after Haruhiko and it's not like he made it hard. There were plenty of times Haruhiko had made his feelings for Misaki known and where he made himself vulnerable to the so called spy. So then why did he pursue Akihiko? Was it strategic? Intentional? A flaw? Or…

Haruhiko tightened his grip on the silk before he stood up, tucking the fabric back into his pocket. There were too many things unanswered here. Too many gaps missing in this story. The Prince grabbed his coat and threw it on before he left his room, quickly making his way down the stairs. He slowed when he heard voices though, coming to a stop and pressing himself against the wall. Ah, it was the Scribe and the Maid. It seemed they, too, were also suspicious. He waited for them to finish before he rounded the corner. They quickly went to bow to Haruhiko but he held up a hand, "You two. You're not in trouble but follow me. I am in need of your assistance." he said, motioning for them to follow as he turned and began to make his way downstairs. He could hear them close behind, struggling to keep up with his long strides. Although they were below him they were Misaki's friends and the only ones who also seemed to be questioning what had happened.

Haruhiko had questions and there was only one person who could answer them.

"Honestly, Akihiko, are you really going to mope all day?" The King said, voice gruff and irritated. He glared at his son who sat facing away from him at his desk, staring blankly out the window. He shook his head, walking over to him, "You're honestly overreacting to all of this. Just be thankful you didn't get hurt. Or worse."

Akihiko didn't respond, dull and pained eyes looking at the snow covered landscape. In front of him was a few pieces of paper. He liked to write when he was feeling depressed or angry. It calmed him and helped him relax. But, despite sitting at the desk for three hours now, the only thing on the paper was water stains and ink splatters where his pen had hovered too long over one spot. "Leave me alone, father." he muttered, voice a bit raspy.

"Son, there's no reason for you to act this way. I know, it hurts to be played a fool but the best thing you can do is move on." He waited for a response but the only thing he got was Akihiko swallowing a lump in his throat. "Whatever you felt wasn't real, Akihiko. None of it was. It was all a lie so someone could harm you and your family. Let's just be glad that we caught it in time, yes?"

"I don't want to talk about this anymore."

"Then we won't. But you need to get out of this...this...whatever you're in now. Staying in your room isn't going to help." he said with a small huff. He straightened up, "There are a few documents I need delivered to the Archives along with a few errands in the Yukihyo district."

"That's a five hour trip."

"Well you better start getting ready. It'll do you good to get out of this castle and spend some time away for a while. Besides you can go and explore the archive like you used to. What do you say?"

Usually Akihiko would fight with his father, eventually ignoring him and going off to do his own thing. But Akihiko himself couldn't stand to be here anymore. Not after what Misaki said or knowing the person he still loved was under his feet. So, after a few moments of silence he nodded, slowly standing up. "Fine." he said, keeping his gaze down.

The King smiled, clasping a hand on his shoulder, "Smart choice. I'll have the servants prepare for your trip. Be ready to leave in an hour." he gave his shoulder a small squeeze before he left the room.

Akihiko stared down at the piece of paper, reaching to grab it and crumple it up. But didn't, letting his hand drop back to his side instead. His heart felt heavy as he went to switch his outfit to the normal clothes he wore. He didn't want to be here but at the same time he did. He didn't want to believe what Misaki said but...he had said it so convincingly that Akihiko had no choice but to believe him. No matter how much it hurt.

"Step aside." Haruhiko said sternly, watching the guards with his icy gaze as they nervously stepped aside from the door blocking the dungeon. They even opened it for him as well.

He started walking down the steps that wrapped around the wall, leading further and further into the basement. It became much colder and he pulled his coat closer around himself. Behind him Sumi and Aikawa held the torches a little closer to their person since they weren't dressed in many layers like Haruhiko. Finally they reached the bottom. The cells were empty except for Misaki who was in the one the farthest down the hall. Straightening up, he walked down to where the so called spy sat.

Misaki looked...terrible. His skin was pale and his hair was a mess, hanging in front of his face. He would have probably froze to death if it weren't for the fires going on in the dungeon; providing just enough warmth to keep him alive. He didn't move from his spot on the wall, his head hanging down. Haruhiko felt a small pang of pity but he pushed it away, keeping his expression blank as he stepped forward. The other two staying back against the wall.

"Misaki."

There was a pause before the brunette answered, although he didn't look up, "Yes, Prince Haruhiko?" His voice was dry and it cracked but whether it was from crying, the cold or dehydration-or all three-was uncertain.

"I need answers."

"For what?"

"Last night."

"You already know what happened."

"I don't believe you. I think you're lying." Misaki didn't respond, "Why, Misaki? What really happened?"

Again, no answer. Aikawa spoke up, taking a small step forward, "I know you, Misaki. You couldn't be a spy. It doesn't make sense! You're so nice and quiet-"

"I was acting."

"No you weren't." Sumi said, shaking his head, "I know liars, Misaki. I've seen my fair share. But you weren't lying or acting. Your emotions have been nothing but genuine."

"I'm a really good actor."

"Damn it, Misaki. I know you're hiding something. Your plan doesn't make sense. Why would you go this far if all you wanted was an easy way to get in? Why go after Akihiko and not me? I am much more important than he is. Why not go after the future king?" Haruhiko said, voice raising.

Misaki kept his mouth shut but Haruhiko could see Misaki tense slightly. So he continued, "Your plan is flawed and doesn't make sense. There has to be another reason-"

"What difference does it make?" Misaki suddenly said, looking up at Haruhiko, who was taken aback. "Why does it matter why I did it? I'm already in trouble-nothing will change that!"

Haruhiko composed himself before getting closer, "Because your punishment can be less severe. Why are you here? Why did you lie?"

"I didn't-"

"You didn't?"

"No! I'm a criminal! I'm a spy! Now leave me alone!"

Haruhiko glared, narrowing his eyes, "Answer me this, before I go. Do you hate Akihiko? Do you despise him? Does he mean nothing to you?"

"Prince…"

"Was it that easy to break his heart?"

"St-"

"Did you feel anything for him at all?"

"Stop it-"

"He's up there in his room, crying and heartbroken-"

"Please-"

"Closing in on himself, trust shattered with no joy-"

"STOP IT! PLEASE, STOP IT!" Misaki cried out, pulling against his chains. He looked up at Haruhiko, eyes glistening with tears. "I don't want to hear anymore...please…" he said, hanging his head.

Haruhiko stared at him, they all did, with pained expressions. He loosened his grip on the bars. He remained silent for a while before asking, in a calm voice, "Why did you lie and make yourself out to be the bad guy?"

"You have to promise not to tell anyone."

"I promise. We all do."

After Aikawa and Sumi nodded Misaki let out a shaky breath. "I didn't...I didn't want anyone else to get in trouble. I-...I only came here because my brother was engaged to Manami. He didn't have the money to marry her and her family wasn't going to pay to have her marry someone lower than her class." he shrugged, "So I went instead. It was the only thing I could think of and the only quick option. I was supposed to get kicked out the first go but...Then I met all of you and Akihiko kept my secret since he and my brother were friends…"

Haruhiko frowned a little. He knew that his brother and Manami would have gotten in trouble for denying the summon and for knowing about this. And Akihiko would also get in trouble with their father. Still, for Misaki to take the blame for everything was foolish yet strangely characteristic of him. "You loved Akihiko, didn't you?"

Misaki nodded slowly, gripping onto the chains that bound him. "...Yes…I-I still..."

Aikawa, Sumi and Haruhiko all looked at each other. Even with knowing the truth there was nothing much they could do. At least...not legally. They seemed to share a common idea and all nodded. "Thank you, Misaki." Haruhiko kneeled down next to the cell, the two making eye contact. "I promise I won't tell my father or anyone else. I also promise to do my best to get you out of here." Misaki began to shake his head but he shushed him, "You shouldn't be here. It's not fair. I swear I'll get you out."

Misaki looked at him and frowned a little, "I'm sorry, Prince Haruhiko."

Haruhiko opened his mouth but closed it. He knew what Misaki was talking about and despite the rejection he wasn't going to let it affect him. Not now. He stood up and motioned for the two to follow once again.

Once they were halfway up Sumi spoke softly, "What's the plan, Prince?"

"First off, we need to find Akihiko and tell him about this. If this is going to work, I'm going to need his help." Well there was something Haruhiko didn't think he'd say.

"Alright."

"Now...can I trust you two to keep your mouth shut and help?" he slowed down to a stop and turned to look at them. "This is going to require for a few laws to be broken. I need to know now if you're on my side or my father's."

The two looked at each other, debating, before looking back at Haruhiko and bowing. "We are at your service, Prince Haruhiko." Sumi said.

"No matter the risks." Aikawa added. "Anything for our friends."

Haruhiko smiled faintly before nodding and heading back up the stairs. The put the torches back before they left the dungeon. Not after threatening the guards into secrecy of course. However when they went up to Akihiko's room he was gone. They searched through the house but he was nowhere to be seen. One of the maids had said that Akihiko left a few hours ago to do some errands for his father in the Yukihyo district. Almost instantly Haruhiko began to make his way down to ground level.

"What are we going to do, Prince?" Sumi asked, running down the corridor along with him.

"I need to get my brother back here. Before my father decides on any punishments." he pulls his coat on and goes out the back to the stables. The snow was picking up and Haruhiko knew a blizzard would hit soon. He had to get Akihiko back before then. Otherwise they'd both be stuck. "You two stay here and make sure my father doesn't know I left. I should be back...in two hours." he said, tightening the saddle on his horse.

"What if he finds out anyways?"

"Then I'm going to need to sneak in. You'll help me with that. I'll be taking a short cut and heading North East. I'll cut him off." he pauses and looks at them, "Can I trust you?"

They nod and Aikawa hands him a bag of supplies while Sumi hands him his sword. "Good luck."

"I don't need luck." he muttered before he takes off, heading through the trees and disappearing in an instant.

The two head back in and try and warm up. "I hope he makes it in time. Till then we should probably get back to work. Or, pretend to."

Sumi nods, rubbing his arms as he looks out the window at the snow. "I hope they make it back in time…"

Misaki had no idea how long he had been down there. It felt like days but after Haruhiko arrived he knew it had to have been the next day already. At least, anyways. He had some gauge of time, though. Every now and then a man would come down to keep the fires going. They'd say nothing but it gave Misaki some comfort to know he wasn't completely forgotten.

But he was still worried. Worried about what Haruhiko had planned. He trusted them all not to tell the King but he didn't want to put their lives at stake if it meant his safety. Would he be able to get Misaki out? And would Akihiko even forgive him after what he's said and done? He had no idea but when he was left in the dungeon with only his thoughts he couldn't help but worry and overthink.

However the sound of footsteps caught his attention. At first he assumed it was the man who kept the fires going, since they were beginning to die down. But there were too many footsteps. Unless he had help-

"Good evening, Misaki."

Misaki's eyes grew wide when he saw the King appear with four other servants behind him, holding...something in their hands. He couldn't make it out just yet. He bowed his head a little but was too surprised to do much other than stare.

"I had been thinking about your punishment for a while, now. After all, the punishment must match the crime. However I decided I'll give you a little bit of mercy although you don't deserve it." he walks closer, hands behind his back as he bends down a bit, "Tell me who sent you and I might just let you live." Misaki said nothing, staring at him with confidence. "Come now, is it really worth it to keep your employer's identity a secret."

Misaki looked down and thought of his brother, Manami and Akihiko. All of them were on the line if he told the truth and even if he lied he didn't want to be the reason for a false war. "Yes. They are." he answered, curling his hands into fists.

The King's face grew cold but he smiled none the less. "Very well. If that's how you want to play it, so be it. I'll ask again tomorrow, if you make it to tomorrow anyways." When Misaki got a confused look on his face he chuckled. "There's going to be a blizzard soon. The temperatures will be dropping in the negatives and I'll be keeping the castle very warm till it passes. However I don't think it'll reach all the way down here. Let's find out."

The servants stepped forward and one by one they dumped buckets of water onto the fires, putting them out and making the dungeon dark and cold. Misaki's breath quickened as the only light left in the room began to leave along with the King. "Good luck, Misaki. You're going to need it."

The door soon slammed shut and Misaki was left alone in the dark, the cold already beginning to creep up on him. Oh no...no, no, no, no. Miskai tugged against his chains, struggling to try and free himself. He had no idea how to survive in the cold and being in pitch darkness didn't help either. This was it...he was going to die, wasn't he?

"Where are you going?" Aikawa cried, chasing after Sumi in the snow, already beginning to lose visibility in the beginning of the blizzard. They had heard everything from one of the servants and had been told the king ordered for no one, not even another royal, to go down there. Not unless he was present.

Sumi knew he would freeze down there and that Haruhiko and Akihiko needed to find out. Before it was too late. "I need to bring them back. Or at least lead them through this blizzard. I grew up in these woods I'll know where to go." he said hastily, tying a lantern to his saddle. The horse wasn't his but it was a supply horse. It would be able to handle these conditions.

"But Sumi what am I going to do here?"

"Keep an eye on things. I'll sneak in through the lake area. Keep an eye out for me okay?"

"Take care of yourself. And bring them back soon!"

Sumi nodded before he kicked the horse's side and it took off, following the same path Haruhiko had gone. They were running out of time and he knew that they needed to have luck on their side if Misaki was going to make it and if they were going to beat this blizzard.

((A/N: Sorry for not updating for awhile! Once again, school. But here is the next chapter. It's longer than the other's, I think. Let me know what you think about it! Thanks for being patient, I love you guys!))