The Best Friends Prompt (Pitched by: Salty)
Goal: Using two OCs, write a scene with the pair as best friends. The more different the pairing, the better.
Pairing: Koga and Prince
Verse: Legend of Zelda (AU)
The Scene
As Prince and I continued walking through the Castle Town streets, we made it to the East End.
"Damn, Kyodai. You clean up well. Never thought I'd be lucky enough to do a job with you, let alone see you in a suit," Prince acknowledged my change of wardrobe, a sure departure from my everyday outfit.
"I'm glad one of us is enjoying ourselves. I feel like my button-up is starting to strangle me."
"Ahh, relax. It's supposed to feel that way. You would've gotten used to it by now if you did more jobs with me. Nut getting you to work with me is harder than getting Aurelia to go out on a second date."
"Why the hell do I have to wear a suit when I go out with you? If I did a job alone, the suit wouldn't be mandatory."
"Because it's customary for Kyodais from different tribes or branches to wear a suit during jobs to establish and cement a working relationship. That's what my Old Man says anyway."
"Yeah, but when have you ever followed rules, Prince?" I jokingly inquired.
"Hey, I follow the rules. I just bend them severely. You're a stickler for the rules, so I wanted to make sure I didn't do anything to annoy you." Prince defended himself. "Why are you so stiff when it comes to them?"
"I'm not stiff, Prince," I answer as he quickly gives some ladies a wink and kiss, which causes me to punch his arm. "I act like I do because you act as you do. Someone has to take the job seriously, and I know it isn't going to be you."
"Oh come on, Kyodai. I get that making sure our people prosper is priority number one, but we have all the time in the world. It wouldn't kill you to make good use of your features, especially now that you got those stitches across your face. You haven't noticed, but fifteen women on our way over here gave us second glances. And I know that they weren't lookin' at me," Prince noted.
I scoff as we stop. "I had a feeling that we weren't here for just work. Do we actually have a job here, or are you trying to get me laid? Again?"
"Woah, wait a minute, Kyodai! We gotta job here, I promise. I'm just saying you should place more stock in yourself and who you are. A little more pressure on your reputation is just what you need. You are the son of the Chieftain of the Imps, y'know."
"The second oldest adopted child, to be exact, Prince. Not as powerful as being the only son of the King of the Imp's Brother Tribe."
"So what? With Dee MIA because she went to find herself and Tara and Huey still in Kakariko for who knows how long, you're the only big name Imp that makes regular contact with the outside world. And unlike me, people have only seen you a handful of times but already know who you are, what you look like, and most importantly, respect your accomplishments," Prince explained. "It baffles me how you can discount and downplay your accolades without fail. If you had my confidence, you'd be getting a lot more work. That's saying something with how much people request you as it is now."
"I get a lot of work because I don't spend my free time trying to get my dick wet, Prince," I point out as we continue walking through the East End.
Prince chuckled. "Well, with a face like mine, can you blame me for being on the hunt, Kyodai? You should join me one of these nights, you know."
"I'm not down for laying with a prostitute, Prince. You know this."
"But that's not the only reason why I go out to the Red Light District. I network down there. The connections and information I get are arguably better than the brokers in the North End. You said you wanted to upgrade to North End clients and Noble clients, right? Well, I learned from a favorite down there that they send emissaries down to the South End where the Red Light District is. You wouldn't know that if you never went down there or if I didn't tell you," Prince made clear. "But the whores are a plus too, that I can vouch for sure."
I laugh at my Kyodai's carefree nature. "I guess I should make a trip down to the South End one of these days. If what you're sayin' is true."
"Have I ever lied to you? Plus, I owe you for helping me on this job and for allowin' me to see you in a suit," he joked with a couple of notches of laughter.
"Uh-huh, Prince. We can talk about that later. I'm just itching to get this job done and maybe get my Bagua Dao some use since I got my fourth Bronze Ring." I tug on the Eight Ring Bagua Dao's handle. "So what's the deal with this company, Prince?"
"They're loan sharks. Normally, that wouldn't be a problem, but it's how they conduct their business."
"How's that?"
"They charge 15% interest in late fees and add them up by the day as opposed to the month as normal sharks do. That's not even the worst part. They remain under the radar because they usually set up the due date so far long from when Ruppees get an initial loan. So clients almost always forget about paying them back. Then they start threatening the clients and force them to do labor to pay off the debts that stockpiled over time."
"What are we gonna do? They do their clients stiff."
"Stiffer than we ever do. But we're not doing collections this go-round though we're dressed for the occasion. We've been hired to rough them up for robbing the poor essentially. The client won't be mad if anyone dies, but she prefers everyone alive so they can be tried for extortion. 'Cause let's be honest. Who's going to do this if we don't? The guards?" Prince questioned as he laughed at the Royal Guard's incompetency.
"And who gave you the job?"
"A North Ender who calls herself Mary had a Cheongsam and a Boa. Was very easy on the eyes too."
"Well, we'll see if we'll get paid after doing the job or if you got swindled out of a payday," I say to Prince as we end up outside the office. "We're here. Anythin' you want to do before we head inside?"
"Nope. Let's do this." He motioned for me to go first. "Age before beauty."
I walked through the door but not before prodding his forehead with my fingers. "Spoiled brats last. I like the way you think, Prince."
Additional Comments
This version of Koga would've been a mix between his TP and OoT incarnations, as you can tell from the Bagua Dao and the stitches across his face. The Yakuza games and Noir scenes inspired the AU, generally speaking. The Tribes are equivalent to the Yakuza Clans. Hence why Prince calls Koga Kyodai as they're referred to as oath brothers. I was tempted to do the Character Cards like in Yakuza or have Koga explain who he and Prince are but decided against it. Maybe one of these days, if I start an LoZ story, you'll all get the total package.
The Best Friends Prompt (Alwaysdoubted's Response)
Goal: Using two OCs, write a scene with the pair as best friends. The more different the pairing, the better.
Pairing: Jai and Samuel
Verse: Mortal Kombat
The Scene
Nodding, Jai made his way to his seat in mindfulness of all eyes on him. The constant scrutiny didn't bother him as it became a daily occurrence. He quietly sat down before lifting the desk cover to retrieve the morning lecture's reading material. While not a well-kept piece by any means, Jai maintained its palpable image though Mariam had a more pristine edition for use.
Buried beneath the book were two neatly folded notes.
Jai glanced around to deduct who might have planted them. No one immediately came to mind, all eyes either on their written synopsis or the occupied chalkboard. He carefully plucked the anonymous notes to not accidentally rip them before unfurling one.
Safe to say you're a shoo-in for that promotion. We're thinking of meeting at the tavern for some drinks after tonight's ceremony. You in? - Samuel
Smiling, Jai turned left to see a fair-skinned male with auburn colored hair concentrating on the lesson but took a moment to glance at his classmate. Jai pointed his thumb upward, confirming he'd join the group. The other note's origins were a mystery that drew more intrigue. Jai decided to store it in his pocket before flipping to the current page, obtaining paper to jot down notes for studying later in the week.
Thoughts of what had transpired earlier crept into his mind. There had to be an underlying intention for Jade to approach him in that manner, not that Jai would complain about a free meal while engaging in a conversation with a dear friend.
Friend? Jai repeated the word in his head.
He wasn't sure if that term best described their relationship as their careers went on divergent paths despite entering the Academy together.
Jai was first to admit that adjusting to a stringent agenda wasn't easy. Memories of their startling ascension came flooding back, Mariam's schooling going in one ear and out the other.
Circa 4500 years ago:
Maybe I'm not cut out for this.
Doubt registered in Jai's mind as he and over 150 men and women gathered at the forest entryway, the finest selection of talent assembled. Every five years, a new class partakes in numerous examinations for a chance to prove themselves. Over the previous four months, every aspiring Knight underwent drastic changes in appearance and mannerisms, necessary to become part of Edenia's lethal fighting force. Physical exertion measured a mere fraction of what's expected in the line of duty.
King Jerrod kept his expectations straightforward: Have a decisive mindset and understand your why.
Each recruit was supplied with basic necessities. Training uniforms, sleeping quarters, three meals a day, sabbatical on the weekends, and adequate healthcare. A sensible exchange between parties.
Today was the final assessment to determine who graduated into the Academy, earning a Warrior Basic rank or commission into an officer. The lucky few won't enjoy themselves for long, granted only two recreational days before taking a three-hour boat voyage to the Knight's secretive compound. The prospect made Jai anxious though he held his own against all obstacles up to this point, the worst yet to pass.
He gazed amongst the crowd sitting cross-legged, the genders split into two separate groups while awaiting further instruction. Most came from prestigious families and backgrounds, competitive banter echoing all over as everyone used the last of their free time for the foreseeable future.
But it's too late to turn back and go home now. I have to start supporting myself and not rely on my mother and father. Jai internalized.
That's why he took this chance; to prove himself worthy of serving Edenia.
Jai realized staying with his parents for most of his young adult life would not be wise. He did care for Kiyana and Solomon with every fiber in his being. They weren't perfect but loved their only child unconditionally, ensuring all his needs were met. Never once did he complain or grumble at his afforded life.
Now was the time to stand on his own two feet.
He let his eyes wander toward the female group, seeking the woman responsible for talking him into enlisting. She wouldn't be hard to spot with as much time they spent together before now.
Unsurprisingly, Jai found her at the group's forefront.
Jade gave off a bored impression from her eyes alone. The chatter around her consisted of topics unrelated to anything imperative, mainly around boys. Such talk left her detached as she didn't engage much in it back at the palace, only scarcely in the Princess's company. She felt immersed in the woods' familiar surroundings since they served as a second playground for her and Kitana away from the capital.
Their conversation leading up to this juncture took place three years ago, focusing on life after finishing preparatory school as distinguished students. Jai honestly had no inkling or clue about what he should do for a living. Following Solomon into politics was out of the question, but working a regular job within the town wasn't appealing. Meanwhile, Jade had more avenues at her disposal. Become a teacher, work as a tactician under Queen Sindel, and many other outlets. Yet, she didn't want to venture too far from her companion and dismiss their friendship due to time apart.
One night at a gathering inside the palace, Jade relayed to Jai about pursuing a military career by joining the Edenian Knights. He understood how much she honored her deceased father's sacrifice and supported her decision as a good friend would. But it's what she said afterward that left him dismayed.
"You should join me. I don't want us to part, and this could be the opportunity you're looking for."
It was no secret Jade hoped to have him accompany her on this venture, and thankfully it didn't take much convincing for Jai to accept. Not without reservation, however. His father held nothing but disdain for the military, his reasons unknown despite courting Kiyana when she served.
Jai examined Jade's demeanor. Wonder if she even has butterflies. Probably not.
His keen observation was one of reverence, failing to hide a sense of awe whenever watching Jade from afar. She exceeded all expectations by the end of three training weeks. Her skill, tenacity, and overall performance received commending remarks from the Knights' cadres due to her meticulous preparation.
Other female recruits didn't share the same view.
They all saw Jade as a showoff outperforming their best efforts to earn similar recognition. Most harbored envy within their hearts, but she paid no mind to their discontent since it wasn't her fault they couldn't keep up.
"She has your focus, it seems."
Startled, Jai craned his neck to who caught him spacing out. His eyes fell upon a man around his age, sporting a wiry frame and a pale complexion.
Samuel and Jai instantly developed a friendship after meeting during the initiation phase. Others soon followed in the ensuing days. Muhammed, Zane, and Titus completed the quintet that formed close bonds while doing their best to succeed. They didn't see each other as rivals, using the training instead to inspire one another.
Jai shrugged. "I wouldn't say that, per se."
Samuel didn't buy that excuse. "Sure, you obviously weren't admiring her."
"Whatever. Jade requested that I join her."
"I see. Why is that?"
Jai racked his brain for a plausible answer. Truth be told, he didn't know anything about the Knights other than their sworn allegiance to safeguard Edenia from foreign and domestic threats. They pride themselves in professionalism, a pillar of excellence one should continually strive for.
"Still trying to figure that out. Part of me isn't sure if I'm even fit to become a soldier. I find myself sticking out like a sore thumb here. Maybe it's the thrill of venturing away from general labor," Jai responded. "Argus knows I refuse to involve myself in political affairs. Those meetings can bore one to tears."
Samuel gave a slight nod. "They sure can. Any idea how long you plan on serving should you make it?"
"Beats me. Probably long enough to find what I'm searching for."
Unexpectedly, Samuel gave a cheeky elbow to his friend's ribs. "Don't search too hard. Your answer may be closer than you think."
"Trainees! Stand ready!" barked an authoritative voice.
Grumbling under his breath, Samuel unfolded each leg before rising to his feet. "There goes our day."
Everyone snapped to attention side by side, not moving a muscle. Jai witnessed two men and two women marching with purpose in his peripheral vision.
One of the males stood out from the rest.
He towered over the vast majority in a black and silver armored uniform, a neatly trimmed goatee coinciding with tan skin. His presence loomed imposing, an ivory badge signifying his position of command. The aura surrounding this man led everyone to believe one thing...
This had to be Lennox, Captain of the Edenian Knights.
Lennox overlooked the assembly with hands clasped behind his back, no dropout because of injury or disciplinary issues – a first under his guidance. The General would arrive within an hour to observe the final training phase, his most trusted officers administering on his behalf.
Pacing back and forth, Lennox analyzed every face in attendance. The two boys peered into the forest ahead when the Captain stopped in their vicinity and mutely scrutinized Jai.
Seems like I'm on his radar. Best to make a good first impression.
Breaking eye contact, Lennox continued his deliberate pace after a reverse pivot. "Men and women," he initiated his welcome speech, loud enough for all to hear. "Congratulations on reaching this plateau. You now stand at the threshold of becoming a warrior. Your decision to serve Edenia's Imperial army is commended with the highest honor one can gain."
His eyes scanned for anyone not making eye contact, which they all not dared to do.
"Should you manage to surpass today's examination, you'll join our exclusive affiliation in protecting this very land our Gods created." Lennox paused before a mean smirk appeared. "I hope you're prepared for what lies ahead. We'll begin in over half an hour at the heart of the forest. Savor this last instance of freedom. I guarantee whoever survives the last elimination will experience a shortage of rest from here on out. Dismissed."
Lennox turned on his heels and left the area, followed by the triplet of officers. Both Jai and Samuel glanced at each other after coming face to face with possibly their future superior.
"This is it," Samuel said with an air of finality.
"You said it. Hope we make it out of here in one piece," Jai replied.
He glanced back at Jade, who seemed unfazed by what just took place with a faint smirk across her ebony lips. This came as no surprise as she never lacked confidence due to her passion for competition. Whether it involved training, sports, or school, she strived to be the best and never yielded compromise.
Samuel took note of his friend's stare, his comment falling on deaf ears. "At least one of us won't be distracted."
Jade caught Jai staring, not even feigning ignorance or looking elsewhere. She could read his mind even at her current position. Jai did well in the initial tests considering he was an exceptional athlete. However, lacking actual combat ability put him behind a steep learning curve. Any diversions during the elimination phase were detrimental, with no backup plan to fall back on.
The time to prove the doubters wrong was at hand.
Additional Comments
As most of my followers know, this is from the last written chapter of Fractured Trust. Jai and Samuel's relationship differs from the others the former shares with the royal family in that the two met during training. Plus, it's from a man's perspective instead of Jade, Kitana, or Sindel, for that matter.
To whomever, it may concern, no, I haven't given up on the story or writing in general. School, work (change in jobs), family, and house hunting have taken up most of my time. So please understand that I can't devote the time I used to anymore. However, I'll continue doing the best I can to create a more routine schedule. All I ask is to have patience as I figure this all out.
Your support, no matter how big or small, is a big deal.