|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Posted: Sat Jan 30, 2010 8:38 pm
Character Profile:Name: Ichiro Taijo
Age: 26
USS: Seme
Bio: The oldest son of the emperor and empress of Japan, Ichiro is next in line for the throne. In fact, he's the perfect heir: handsome, strong-willed, a skilled sportsman, a brilliant strategist, a diligent student, serious, and passionate. However, what most people don't get to see is his terrible temper. In the past, Ichiro has taken his anger out on the servants of the palace. However, unable to overlook his temper any longer, his parents offer to give him a whipping boy; a servant who will always be by his side for him to punish whenever he likes.
Appearence: Ichiro & How the servants view him.Name: Kotaro Miyazaki
Age: 18
USS: uke
Bio: Kota grew up in a small green village surrounded by mountains and streams. His childhood was spent racing through fields with other village children and swimming in the fresh cool waters of surrounding creeks. he was a carefree child and found himself surrounded by the epitome of freedom and simplicity. That all disappeared when his father passed away. His uncle, a drunk and a gambler, moved into the family home to 'help' his mother manage. However, his outside dealings only created debt. Soon, in desperation, the greedy man sold his beautiful nephew to slave traders for a heavy profit.
Appearance:
Kota
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sat Jan 30, 2010 9:38 pm
Walking through the halls of the palace, Ichiro was actually looking forward to meeting with his parents for once. Although he usually loathed having the listen to the two of them prattle on whenever they summoned him, Ichiro knew that this time he would actually be getting something out of it. In the past he'd taken out his anger on whoever was conveniently at hand. However, it seemed as though his parents had begun to take issue with this, seeing as he occasionally did enough damage to a servant to render them useless for a day or two.
Instead of trying to quell his temper, they had decided to get him a whipping boy; a slave who would take the full brunt of his temper for the sake of the rest of the palace staff. While it seemed a little unorthodox, Ichiro couldn't complain about this compromise. Not only would he still be free to hit something every time he got mad, but there would always be someone there to punish and no negative repercussions, since the servant would have no other tasks but to be hit.
As he passed several servants, he noticed that they no longer trembled at his approach; in fact, several of them seemed to be in a very good mood. Perhaps word had already spread throughout the palace of the arrival of a sacrificial lamb. Although some of them probably thought him an even greater monster for it, most of them were simply relieved that they would never again have to fear his wrath.
As he arrived in the throne room, Ichiro sat on his knees before his parents and bowed, waiting to be addressed before he even spoke. From his seat, the emperor began, "My son, although you are a gifted student and the perfect heir, your uncontrolled ferocity has begun to cause trouble amongst the palace staff. Although we have always encouraged you to have passion, we never thought that you would go this far. As a result, we can no longer overlook your temper. However, we do not wish to deprive you of the inner fire required of any good ruler, and so...today, we present you with a gift. A personal servant whom you may treat however you please. Should you, in time, lose your abusive temper and no longer require this slave, you may still do whatever you may please with it. So please, turn and face the court, as your options are due to arrive."
Standing gracefully, Ichiro smirked thankfully at his father. In the past he had resented his father for his lecturing and constant push to become even better. For once, however, it seemed that Ichiro would actually have reason to thank him. After all, it was annoying having all of the servants be terrified of him. Whenever he needed something anymore they were all so reluctant to come at his call, as though he would just hit them for no reason. It would also be fun to have someone tag along with him all of the time just to soothe his temper. Anything devoted to making him feel better was a blessing in his eyes. There was so much unrest in those days that he needed all the relaxation he could get, especially with his tight schedule.
Watching as the guards let in a small parade of slaves, Ichiro watched each one carefully, trying to figure out which he liked best. There were a few females intermixed with the males, but Ichiro had no interest in them. He had never made it a secret how greatly he preferred the company of men, and no one had ever bothered him about it. In fact, he wondered why his parents had not told the slave seller not to even bother bringing females. Disregarding the matter, he continued to watch as all of them bowed as deeply as possible, down on their knees with their heads to the floor. "Lift your heads," Ichiro ordered with a firm voice, "I need to see your faces and eyes if I'm to choice properly."
Waiting until each one was sitting still and looking at him, Ichiro slowly went down the line, taking a closer look at one every now and then. It was so difficult to choice; he wanted one that was pleasant to look at, but also sturdy enough to take his abuse. Not that he saw it as abuse; he was entitled to treat the lowly as such, especially when he was in a foul temper. That was one of the greatest perks of being a prince, after all. On top of all that, Ichiro also wanted a servant who looked unique. So many of the commoners looked exactly the same to him, it became almost boring to even think about them. Scanning the entire row once more, Ichiro tried to pick out which one stood out the most in his eyes, knowing that he would have to put up with the slave's presence for a long while yet.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sat Jan 30, 2010 10:52 pm
Kota was terrified. That was perhaps the only word to describe what he was feeling-- pure absolute terror. For weeks, he had been juggled around by the slave traders who instructed him on how he must behave if he wanted a ‘good’ master. He had never expected to be kneeling before the emperor’s son. Of course, Kota planned to run away the second he saw the chance.
He wasn’t a slave! He was a village boy! He wanted to spend the rest of his life in the simplicity of the green fields, harvesting rice and catching fish. He wanted to race and wrestle and have fun. He wanted to be happy and free. What he didn’t want was the restriction of these palace walls or the pain of the prince’s blows. The prince was renowned for his cruelty and the thought of being the brutal man’s whipping boy frightened Kota greatly.
He had been prepared extensively for this day. The slaver traders had washed and combed his long silver hair until his scalp burned, rubbed his skin raw, scented his body with sweet flowers, and dressed him in the finest kimono he had ever worn. Kota was not, however, aware of the fact that he was the most beautiful among the slaves. His exotic blue eyes, watery and timid, captured the prince’s out of curiosity. The man was certainly handsome, something he had not quite expected. How could someone so mean look so perfect?
His pale cheeks flushed a faint shade of pink and he looked away quickly, praying the other did not choose him. It would be so much harder to escape and emperor’s son than it would any other master. He hoped the other would notice the small frailness of his body and decide he was not useful as a whipping boy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 31, 2010 4:09 pm
As he scanned the line, Ichiro was suddenly paralyzed by one boy's gaze. His wide blue eyes, like nothing the prince had ever seen, were exactly the kind of distinctive marker Ichiro had been looking for. Not only would something unique like that keep his interest and attention, but it would be easy to describe him to someone if he needed to be found quickly. After all, slaves occasionally attempted to hide from their duties or even run away from the palace, even though it was one of the finest places for a slave to live. Sure there was plenty of work to be done, but on the bright side they ate better and lived better than most other slaves. Ichiro could never understand the mentality of servants.
Having decided that he liked the little water-eyed boy, Ichiro walked over and stood before him. "I'll take this one, sir. How much?" he asked, wondering how much would be expected for one so small. One of the servants on-hand payed the man his fee, and Ichiro watched as the rest of the slaves were herded out of the palace, back into the streets to find themselves different masters. "Father, Mother, I thank the both of you greatly for this gift," he said graciously with a bow, wanting his parents to know that he was sincerely grateful.
Turning to leave, Ichiro looked down at the boy with a smirk and commanded, "You're mine now. Follow me." Deciding to go right back to what he'd been doing before he'd left to fetch his new toy, Ichiro said, "I have some calligraphy that I need to finish. Nothing much, just a hobby of mine. After that we will go to sports practice. Have you any skill in the bow and arrow or wrestling? You look rather frail, so I doubt it," he answered himself, not even waiting for the boy to speak. After all, it was his own opinion that mattered more than whatever the boy might know.
As he led the boy down the hall, Ichiro gave him the benefit of the doubt and assumed that he was a submissive and obedient boy. Even if he wasn't, he would be quite soon. It was his job, after all, to allow Ichiro to relieve stress, so if he caused any stress it would have to be fixed. "So, what is your name, boy?" he asked, wanting to know what to call him by. Of course, he always could have simply given the boy a new name or called him something generic, but Ichiro thought it best to use something that the boy was already familiar with. He was not a heartless man. Ichiro understood that the transition to a new household, especially one so different from that of a commoner, would be difficult. In the end, he didn't want to trouble the boy unnecessarily.
When they arrived at his room, Ichiro looked around briefly to be sure that nothing had been disturbed in his absence. To one side of the room sat a small, low table, bare except for a scroll and a black tablet with a paintbrush resting atop it. Walking over and sitting down on the side of the table opposite the door, Ichiro gestured to the boy to join him. "From now on, you may occupy the space to my immediate left. When I sit, you sit. When I stand, you stand. Unless I tell you otherwise. Now, I just need to finish the last few lines of this scroll, so be good, yes?"
As he picked up and wet his brush, Ichiro wondered if the boy had ever seen something so beautiful before. Looking down at the paper, rereading his previous words, Ichiro picked up exactly where he had left off. After only a few minutes, he had finished, and set the brush back down where it had been before. Leaving the scroll out on the table to dry, he called out, "Servant!" and waited for a young girl to run in and bow before continuing, "Clean my brush. Be careful not to touch the paper; it still needs to dry for a while before it can be rolled again."
Standing up, he looked down at his new toy and said, "Now, it is time to train. Come with me, we shall see if there is anyone else at the center. Oh, I suppose I should explain. I train almost every day in one sport or another, in order to keep myself in such fantastic shape. However, it can be a little boring to practice on my own, so I opt to visit a local center where most of the other rich and influential men of the area go. It's actually a nice place," he said with an odd smirk on his face, wanting to keep the boy at least partially in the dark.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Feb 01, 2010 3:35 am
Kota was moving through a haze. Had he been all there, he might have tried to foolishly run from the prince. However, the only sound he could manage was a simple, quiet ‘Kota’ when the man requested his name. After all, there was no point responding to the Prince’s other question. It seemed the man was inclined to answer it himself, finding Kota too frail to participate in any sports. The truth was, Kota’s father had trained him to use the bow and arrow since he was a small boy. In fact, Kota new for certain he was the best in his village, but he doubted that meant anything here.
The entire situation seemed far too degrading. He was to play as this man’s shadow. His only purpose was to be beaten when the other’s temper got the best of him or, at least, that’s what he had overheard from passing servants. As the man kneeled to continue his calligraphy, Kota secretly marveled at its beauty, eyes widening in awe. Every stroke was perfection and the scroll it self was ornate and richly decorated.
When his new master was finished, Kota stood silently as the other did and followed him out to the center in a daze. He was hardly listening to the other, letting his words flit around in his head before securing any real grasp of them. They meant nothing. He would be gone in a fortnight if he could manage it. The center itself was full of young men participating in various sports. To Kota it was an appalling sight. There was a section for bow and arrow, a section for running, a section for wrestling, and many other sections in between.
Of the pack, it seemed only one wealthy young man had the courage to approach the Emperor’s son. He was a tall fellow with a pointed, fox-like face. “Welcome to the center, your highness.” he said only by means of formality. His attention was quick to shift to Kota. “Might I inspect your new whipping boy.” Whether the prince said yes or no, it seemed it hardly mattered. Kota blinked in surprise when the other lifted his chin forcefully and examined his pretty face. “What a rare find,” he mused.
Kota jerked away from the other’s touch. He hadn’t meant to, but there was something about that sly grinning face that made him nervous. The rich boy scowled at the action. “Well, he obviously still needs to learn how he should behave to his betters.” he spat venomously.
“You call yourself my better?” Kota finally spoke, voice accented but silky and sweet. He hated how unthreatening it sounded. “Perhaps financially you are well off, you pointy-faced freak, but I can only assume you’ve had everything handed to you from your parents. You are no better than me, even as I am in this position now. Touch my face again, and I’ll bite your hand.”
Oh dear. He hadn’t realized his own words until they were spoken and an appalled expression morphed the other’s face.
Less than an hour and he had already done something stupid.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Feb 01, 2010 8:18 pm
((Oooo, nice start to Kota's time with us. XD Does your fox boy have a name? I like him already.))
Bowing slightly, Ichiro returned, "I am well. Nothing major to complain about. And yourself? Has everything been well with you?" Although he normally hated having to socialize, there were a few people at the sports center that he actually considered his friends. Many of them were rich and well-known, so perhaps it was easier for them to relate to one another. After all, it was an elite class, and not one that commoners could easily understand. "Word travels fast around here," Ichiro said with an amused smiled, watching as the other man checked out little Kota. It was nice to see that he had good tastes; after all, if the other men were calling Kota a rare find, then he certainly had to be. Most of the others' families owned servants and slaves as well, so it would be interesting to see what the rest of the men thought.
"Yes, I agree," Ichiro said, frowning down at Kota disapprovingly. "It seems as though he was prepared for this day physically, but not mentally. I have only had him in my charge for a few sparse moments, however, so I have not yet had the time to properly teach him his manners. I assure you he will learn in time." However, as soon as the prince had said that, he watched in disgust as the boy insulted the other man, as though he had forgotten the situation he was in.
Smacking the boy in the back of the head, Ichiro pulled down on his beautiful long hair, forcing him to bow awkwardly towards their guest. "Kota, apologize at once to him. He is your better, and you shall quickly learn to accept that," he ordered in a calm voice, attempting to keep his composure in front of the other men. Perhaps it had not been the best idea to bring the boy to a public place before allowing him to adjust to his new lot in life.
"In any case," Ichiro continued, letting go of the boy's hair reluctantly, "how is the sport today? Has there been anything really worth watching?" Although the main point of attending was to train one's own abilities, it was also common practice to study the techniques of the other members. After all, one of the best ways to learn was by example, and they all took great care not to grow too ignorant of new styles. It was important to constantly adjust your own game to that of your opponents and, while most of them there were friendly with each other, they were all also rivals when it came to competition, as only one man could ever come out victorious in a battle of skill.
"Why don't we treat the boy to a little show of expertise?" Ichiro asked the other with a smirk, looking down again at Kota to be sure he understood his place. "Let us shoot a few targets with arrows. No competition, just to prove to him how good we are. After all, one of the best ways to keep servants in line is to remind them of your power. Perhaps when he sees our might he will feel more inclined to respect us as he should." Although Ichiro felt that the boy should respect and obey them without question, it was obvious he still needed to be broken-in as a slave. As he thought about it, Ichiro realized that the boy seemed older than people who were born slaves were sold at, so it was likely that he had not lived as a slave for very long before coming to the palace.
"First, I should change," he suggested, knowing that he would not want to get his fabulous kimono ruined by an accidental slip during their little game. "I will only be a moment," he said to the other man, bowing shallowly once more. "Kota, come," he commanded gently, hoping that the boy had learned his lesson swiftly and would not need another reminder.
Walking into the changing rooms, Ichiro found the box among the shelves that was labeled with his name, and took out the sporting robe he used. Changing swiftly, he was soon suited up and walking out once more, his bow and quiver from the box clutched firmly in his hands. "Forgive me if I kept you waiting," he said, walking up to the other man and smiling. "Shall we begin?"
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Feb 02, 2010 5:07 pm
(His name is Kasuke Arima XD)
Kota had never been so outraged as when the man grabbed him by the hair and forced him into a low bow. It was humiliating to be scolded like a child. However, not wanting to make more conflict than necessary, Kota mumbled a quite apology, glaring up at the fox-faced man. He could only assume the two were close friends or something of the sort.
“We have some very skilled competitors today.” The man purred, obviously pleased with the small slave’s disgruntled expression. However, he seemed to slip easily back into conversation. “We have a newcomer to the center who I think might be worth watching. His form is close to flawless with a bow.”
When the prince suggested showing Kota their skill, the boy resisted the urge to scoff, mainly because he did not want to be smack and also happened to be quite curious about the other’s athletic prowess. He had heard tales of the prince’s skill. However, what he did not expect was to be dragged into the dressing room with the elegant man. The other dressed swiftly, lean muscle rippling as he moved. Kota flushed a bright shade of pink and turned away, not fighting only out of embarrassment. The prince certainly had an… impressive… body. Kota was relieved when the other had finished dressing.
The fox man smirked when they exited the changing rooms. “I believe your new slave gazed upon his master,” he teased. “By the pink on his cheeks, he seems to find you pleasing. Hopefully, he’ll find your skill just as intriguing. ”
Kota’s blush deepened and he glared at the other, standing back to watch the two. Ichiro’s form was impeccable. That was the first thing Kota noticed. It was almost like watching a dance in slow motion as the other aimed. He couldn’t help but take in the other’s form, wanting to emulate part of it and see how it affected his shooting. The fox man, Kasuke, caught a glimpse of the boy studying his master. After the prince made his shot, the rich boy couldn’t resist the urge to hand Kota his bow and an arrow.
“Give it a try,” he teased, wanting to bring the small blue-eyed boy shame more than anything. After all, the little slave had spoken out of turn. Kota took the weapons hesitantly, looking at his master unconsciously for permission. He instantly inwardly reprimanded himself for doing so, moving into form wordlessly.
Aim.
Shoot.
The arrow sailed to the center of the target.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Feb 03, 2010 1:31 pm
((Ah, I like it. <3 I'm assuming that he and Ichiro are friends. They certainly seem like they would get along.))
Interested in witnessing the talent of this new recruit with his own eyes, Ichiro glanced around a bit, trying to pick out anyone in the crowd that he might not have seen before. However, there were always faces coming and going in the center, so it was hard for him to keep track of the people he didn't know, especially since he didn't like to have to concern himself with anyone he didn't like. However, whenever there was talk of an upstart, he always enjoyed a little bit of teasing and competition. Although he was good, he could also be humble when it came to his skills at sports. If nothing else, the prince understood that there would always be someone better than him, and he accepted that as a challenge to make himself better.
Looking down at Kota when Kasuke made his remark, Ichiro couldn't help but feel a little proud. Patting the boy on the head, he said with a smile, "Well, you can't blame him, can you? I mean, he's so small himself...I'm certain he was simply in awe of my beauty and perfection." If there was one thing Ichiro bragged about most, it was his looks and physicality. Although most of the men at the centre were well-toned and athletic, the prince felt as though he had the perfect balance of strength and elegance, not to mention a gorgeous face to go along with his amazing body. On top of that, he happened to know that he was rather well-endowed, even among the other sportsmen. Of course the boy would enjoy staring; who wouldn't?
Nodding, Ichiro agreed. "True. If he has any sense, he will understand the importance skill plays in maintaining even a semblance of perfection. After all, what are looks without usefulness to match them?" Walking over to the targets, Ichiro took a few moments of silence to take his stance and aim, wanting to make as impressive a shot as he could. After all, first impressions mattered quite a bit, and he wanted his new slave to respect and love him. If he wanted to have even a chance at that, he knew he would have to assert his dominance to the boy and prove his worth.
Once his own perfect shot had been made, Ichiro smirked as Kasuke gave the boy his tools. How cruel of him, to force the boy into such an unexpected situation. Of course, it was very much like him, and Ichiro wasn't the least bit surprised. Taking a few steps to the side, Ichiro made room for Kota beside him and watched with great interest as the boy made his shot.
Stunned at first when he saw the arrow fly straight into the center, Ichiro soon began to laugh, saying to Kasuke, "I sure know how to pick them, huh? Looks like this boy might give us a run for our money after all." Turning back to Kota, he said, "Good show, boy. I'll give you a treat or something when we return to the palace tonight." Patting the young man on the head again, Ichiro was happy that he'd happened to get a slave who could keep them entertained at sports.
"How about a few more rounds, then? Unless you'd like to step in, Armia-san?" Ichiro offered, since the bow and arrows Kota was using belonged to the other nobleman. Although the prince wanted to continue playing with his new pet, he wanted to be sure that he wasn't excluding Kasuke from the game.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Feb 03, 2010 9:37 pm
Kasuke eventually got over his surprise. He allowed the boy a few more rounds, just to prove to himself it wasn’t simply beginner’s luck. Apparently the boy was very lucky. He hit the same spot four times. The fox-boy shook his head and laughed. “Well, that really is surprising. Next time my parents give me a personal slave, I’m letting you pick for me, Ichiro.”
Kota, done with the attention, handed the man his bow. The one thing he WAS looking forward to was a possible treat. He hoped it would be something food related. He had only had a small bowl of rice and some water in the last three days. Truthfully, he was starving. The slave traders hadn’t exactly been caring and he was sure they had never expected the opportunity to sell him to royalty. He overheard them mention selling him to older men for a high profit as a sex slave.
The mere thought made him shiver in disgust. At least the prince only wished to abuse him… and just happened to be young and handsome. When they were done shooting rounds, Kota’s eyes caught one man who didn’t quite seemed to fit in. He looked new. Kota could tell by the uncertainty in his gaze and the way he flashed others a kind, nervous smile as he prepared to shoot.
Blinking, he tugged on his master’s sleeve lightly. “Master,” he whispered shyly, still not quite used to the word. “That man is the one you wanted to see.” The words were spoken without even the slightest trace of doubt.
Kasuke looked up and blinked, seeming confused. “Your exotic little slave is right, Ichiro. That’s the new guy I was telling you about. How’d you know, slave.”
“He’s alone, he’s nervous, and he smiled at me politely in an un-condescending way when I caught his eye. None of the others here are like that.”
The boy proved to have a good enough marksmanship, but his stance was not nearly as flawless as Ichiro’s and he didn’t hit the very center like Kota. It was later, on their way back to the prince’s rooms, that the boy’s hunger really set in. He blushed and looked away from the man, not daring to request food.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Thu Feb 04, 2010 6:04 am
Chuckling at Kasuke's comment, Ichiro had to agree with him; the boy was surprisingly skilled. Although it had been the first time in his life that Ichiro had been involved in choosing a new servant for the house, it seemed he had managed to pick one with some unexpected talent. For the most, Ichiro didn't concern himself in the affairs of the servants. After all, it was his parents house, and his mother took care of running most of it while his father was busy with the country.
However, Ichiro liked having a little pet to tag along with him. Although he'd never really been lonely, having someone around made him feel even more loved and powerful than he already was. Seeing how talented the boy was, it was almost a shame to use him as a punching bag. After all, those who had skill were above those who were useless for anything other than the most simple and mundane of tasks. However, to be beaten was the entire reason he'd been bought, and Ichiro wouldn't let that go to waste when he needed it. After all, there was nothing wrong with it. He would just have to be certain that he didn't injure the boy's arms or hands.
Putting a hand on Kota' head as he looked over in the direction he'd mentioned, Ichiro said, "Is that so?" slightly bemused that Kota had been able to pick him out so easily in a crowd when he himself had gotten lost just looking at all the different unfamiliar faces. Laughing at the boy's final comment, Ichiro said, "I suppose you're right, although if you ever meet a guy here named Itaro, you'll be able to pick him out of a crowd for the same reason. Now, let's just see what this boy is made of." Walking over towards where the young man was practicing, Ichiro stood a certain distance from him to spectate, keeping silent as he watched with amusement.
"Shall we give him the pleasure of meeting us?" Ichiro whispered quietly to Kota, although he knew it would be more of an honour to meet him rather than his slave. When the boy seemed to take a break from shooting, Ichiro walked over to him with a smile and said, "Good day," bowing ever so slightly. "My name is Ichiro Taijo. It's a pleasure to meet you. My slave noticed that you must be new here. You seem to have decent enough marksmanship, though." Although he wasn't at all trying to be condescending, Ichiro wasn't being completely nice, either. It was more important to him to be honest and upfront with this newcomer, seeing as he looked rather vulnerable and non-threatening anyway.
"I hope we can see you around here again sometime," Ichiro said as he walked away towards the changing rooms once more. After all, he had finished what he'd had in mind and even got to see a new up and comer on what appeared to be his first visit to the center. As he was changing back, Ichiro asked Kota, "So, what did you think of that boy? Not as good as you or me, but he seems okay. If anything he had room for improvement. I think with a little time here he may actually pose a challenge." If there was one thing Ichiro loved more than simply sports, it was competition and challenges. After all, it made everything much more interesting and exciting, both for the players and the spectators.
Hearing the boy's stomach growl, Ichiro couldn't help but chuckle. "You are simply adorable at times, did you know that?" he asked, although he was rather certain that it wasn't what the boy wanted to hear from him. Nonetheless, it was true, even if the boy was a low-class slave. Perhaps there would be more perks to having this kid around than Ichiro had first thought. "Well, if you're really that hungry, I might as well just make your treat from earlier dinner. It's getting around that time now," he commented, glancing out the window briefly. "So, what will it be? Name your entree of choice. Of course, there will still be soups, salads, and side dishes, and perhaps even some fruit for desert, but just choose your entree, hmm? Our chefs at the palace can cook almost anything perfectly," he boasted, quite proud of what their kitchen servants could accomplish.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Feb 05, 2010 4:16 pm
Kota was taken aback by three things. First, he didn’t expect to be called adorable by his Master. It made his stomach feel all light a fuzzy, similar to how he felt when the other glowed with pride over Kota’s accuracy with a bow. He wasn’t sure why, but for some reason he enjoyed pleasing the man. It frightened him that he might be turning into a weak-minded slave so quickly.
The second was the list of entrees. He had never had so much food at once and the thought of eating made his stomach ache with hunger. Cheeks flushing bright pink, he couldn’t help but smile shyly at the other. “I am no expert on food. Anything you choose I’m sure would taste fine.” he whispered in a sweet, meek tone. The thought of being fed softened his attitude and he didn’t want to do anything that would possibly offend the other into snatching his chance at a meal away.
The third was the way several servants glanced up, waiting patiently for an order. The prince couldn’t be expected to actually ASK for his food. It should simply appear before him whenever he desired most times. Their eyes were so attentive. Soon, Kota found himself kneeling beside the other, staring in awe at the expanse of food laid before him.
A few others had joined the table, including the Emperor and his wife. Kota waited until he was instructed to begin eating. Before taking the first bite, however, he briefly studied the prince’s eating habits. Polite. Not messy at all. He knew better than to wolf the food down and tried hard to contain the urge to do so, keeping his bites small-- almost graceful. It was… SO delicious. He almost moaned with delight.
Then, IT happened. A slave, whilst leaning over to pour some hot liquid for the King, dropped the tray she was holding. The searing liquid landed on the Prince, burning his skin. The girl cowered and apologized several times, eyes wide with shock and horror. It seemed she was too frightened to remedy her mistake like any good servant.
‘Oh dear’ was all Kota could think, hoping the other did not take out any anger on him. However, he banished such worries in favor of wet a cloth with cool water and dabbing the hot liquid away from the man skin before it caused any further harm. He could deal with being hit, but he might as well get rid of the man’s discomfort now. It was obvious the servant girl was too scared to do so.
"Are you all right, sir?" he asked in a soft, gentle tone.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Feb 05, 2010 4:52 pm
A bit surprised that the boy had not immediately named the dish he desired most, Ichiro put a hand on the boy's head once again, although he paused momentarily before giving him a small pet. With a raised eyebrow he wondered if perhaps the boy was merely being overly polite in an attempt to get the best food possible, but the prince could tell by the look on his face that he was being sincere. More likely, he was simply not used to having so many different choices laid out before him. From what Ichiro knew of commoners, they often only had one or two very simple options before them when it came to meals. Fish and rice or vegetables and rice, both with tea, seemed to be the most common of all dishes, although Ichiro found no reason for someone to complain about it; both were delicious if prepared properly.
Thinking about it a little more, Ichiro realized that he rather liked the honesty the boy showed, knowing that few people could really be honest around him when it came to their opinions, considering that most would simply agree with him for the sake of doing so. it was nice to know that he had someone he could trust to be truthful with him.
Looking at the food laid out for them, Ichiro was glad to see what a nice selection they had that day; even better to impress his new slave with. Of course, Kota didn't seem the type to be much affected by appearances, although he certainly looked as though he was greatly enjoying his meal. Seeing the way he savoured every bite, Ichiro wondered if all commoners had such polite manners at the table. If Kota was any indication, then the public and royalty were not so far removed from one another in that respect. It was encouraging to see that even a peasant knew how to eat properly, without making a mess or being too loud.
Just as he was feeling in the mood for a little light dinner conversation, Ichiro got a rude surprise when he saw a tray slip out of a servant's hands. Feeling the hot water splash onto his arm and leg, Ichiro jumped up from where he was sitting , raising his hand instinctively to backhand the girl for her clumsiness. However, remembering that he was supposed to use Kota for that, Ichiro grimaced in pain as he paused, his hand hesitating in the air. Finally bringing his arm down gently to his side, he commanded the girl forcefully, "Clean this up! Immediately!" As he was about to leave to change into dry clothes, Ichiro felt something cool on his arm. Looking down, he was bemused to see Kota dabbing his arm with a wet cloth.
Hearing a hint of concern in the boy's voice, Ichiro had to wonder if it was because he had been hit by the scalding water or because the boy was afraid of getting hit for the girl's mistake. Either way, Ichiro sighed and gritted his teeth. If he had hit the girl, it would have been to teach her a lesson. However, hitting Kota would not accomplish anything, Ichiro knew that. Allowing his head to cool somewhat, he grumbled, "I am fine. I simply must change into clean clothes now. Come with me. We shall return momentarily." The last bit was more aimed to his parents and two younger brothers, who all sat at the table watching with confusion and surprise as Ichiro walked away without having taken his anger out physically.
As the two of them walked to the prince's room, Ichiro was completely silent. For the first time in a long while he had managed to deal with his anger without having to hurt someone. It felt strange, and he felt a bit mixed in his heart. However, things seemed to have been resolved for the time being, so he tried to put it behind him. When they reached his room, he went in quickly with Kota at his heels, took off all of his clothes, and took a fresh set that had previously been laid out for him, in case he had gotten dirty at practice or while eating. When he was finished, he said, "We can go back now. I know you're still hungry." With the way the boy had been eating earlier in the meal, Ichiro understood that there was no way he had already been satiated, and he didn't want to hold the boy back from his present because of someone else's mistake.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Feb 05, 2010 5:31 pm
Kota was surprised when the male did not hit him. However, he accepted it as luck and followed him obediently to his room. The Prince truly was the most handsome, well-endowed man he had ever seen. It made a faint blush appear on his pale cheeks when he caught a glance of the other changing. “Thank you, Master,” he whispered when the other told him he would be able to finish his meal. “Truth be told before this meal the only thing I’ve eaten in the past three days was a bowl of rice, so I do truly appreciate it.”
He tilted his head to the side. The man’s arms were blotched red where the hot liquid had burned him, but Kota expected it would be gone soon enough. “Are men of wealthy blood as… physically pleasing as you?” he questioned shyly, tilting his head to the side. He was referring to the size of the prince’s manhood and his general psyche. Those blue eyes showed genuine curiosity. The Prince was so perfect. It was strange to him.
Eventually they found themselves returning to the table which went silent upon their arrival. Kota was a tad confused and took his seat obediently as his master did so. They had been talking about the prince, that much was for certain. Could they BE any more obvious?
“Why didn’t you use your servant to sate your anger?” One of the brothers had the courage to ask. “That’s why he was given to you correct?”
Kota looked away at this and ate slowly-- silently.
“If you don’t plan to use him for such, I’ll gladly take him as a personal slave. He seems polite and obedient enough to serve me.” Kota couldn’t say he liked the other young man very much. He lacked the grace and confidence of his older brother and he made Kota a tad nervous.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Feb 05, 2010 5:53 pm
((Hah! How did you manage to capture the bratty middle child so perfectly? His name is Jiro, and even though he's about 20, he certainly has never acted his age in the past. You seem to have read my mind.))
As they walked back towards the dining hall, Ichiro did his best to look straight ahead, keeping a blank face the entire time "Hmm," he replied blandly, not really caring about the boy's thanks. After all, he would do as he pleased, whether or not the boy liked it, although he had no intentions of making things any easier or more difficult for the boy than they had to be. He was comfortable allowing things to progress naturally, unless the boy actually gave him reason to change his mind. However, even though they'd only been in each other's company for a few short hours, Ichiro could already tell that Kota had no real malice in his heart, lest it was well hidden enough for him to not even imagine.
When they returned to the table, Ichiro knew exactly what they had been talking about. His family knew him well, although perhaps not as well he allowed some of his friends from the centre to know him. Nonetheless, he was certain that they had been speaking about the fact that he hadn't lashed out at Kota as everyone had expected him to. However, he had no reason to defend his choices or explain himself to them, even if they were his family.
Looking over at Jiro sharply as the boy dared to speak to him with such dishonour, Ichiro spat back with venom, "Should you ever try to steal him from me, I shall be forced to turn all of my available rage on you, dear brother. As I have said before, this family would do much better without you, and I would feel no remorse in ridding our house of you myself. So hold your tongue in front of your brother."
The final brother, who was only around twelve years of age, looked on at the other two shyly. Although everyone was quite used to the two older brothers fighting over even the smallest thing, Saburo always hated it when they raised their voices. Being the youngest, he was dearly beloved by his entire family, including both brothers and their parents, as well as almost every servant in the house. However, when the other two got to fighting, he had no way of stopping them, and it tore his heart in two to know that they could hardly be in the same room together without starting a war. Staring down at his plate sadly, the boy felt as though they had stolen his appetite along with his cheerful mood when they'd begun their harsh exchange of words.
"Besides, Kota would much rather attend to my needs than to yours. Isn't that right, Kota?" Ichiro asked, even though he was certain the boy knew nothing about his younger brothers. Still, the boy was his slave, and he expected him to stand by his master no matter what, although he would probably have been happier escaping from the palace entirely. Regardless of what the boy wanted, however, he was expected to be loyal and obedient above all else, which was more than Ichiro could even say of his middle brother.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Feb 05, 2010 8:07 pm
Kota was a tad surprised to be brought into the exchange. He felt all eyes land on him and he sighed, looking up at the man. “Though you know my personal feelings about being a slave at all, I can honestly say that if I were given a choice to choose my own master out of the entire palace, I would still choose you.” The words were soft and honest. Most slaves would have simply said ‘Yes master,’ showing bland faces that hid their true emotions.
The middle child’s eyes narrowed slightly and he seemed a tad annoyed by this entire ordeal. There was nothing he could really say to that. He could not claim the boy was just lying to keep from being struck, because there was no doubt in anyone’s mind he was speaking the truth. However, this fight would not die with his older brother having the last words.
“So much rage over the simple thought of me stealing away a SLAVE. It’s not as though you’re using him the way he was intended for you. In my opinion, you don’t deserve him at all. Why should you receive a GIFT because of your horrid temper and the rest of us receive nothing for our GOOD qualities.”
Kota sighed, listening to the arguing with slight exhaustion. He set aside the last bowl to his meal and looked up at the man, eyes telling the Prince he was finished and they could leave whenever he wished.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reply
