#prince!karamatsu x reader

[shimmeringclouds]

❀ | ⑤

╔═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╗ 𝐚 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞 ╚═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╝

You had received no answer, much to your chagrin, and you were left to pout moodily for the majority of the ride. Your father rambled on and on about how well maintained the forest was. You were sure no one was listening.

The sudden fork in the faded trail was either a good or bad thing, there was no in-between. Pausing in your tracks, your father seemed to contemplate on something rather deeply before turning to you both with a large, suspicious smile. Your hands moved back to your lap quickly.

"It seems that we must part ways here," he caught your glare, and it was then that you knew he wasn't going to back down on this.

"No, we don't need to do that," you began hotly.

"Two horses, two paths. Each of them lead through the forest and back to the stables. It's only natural that we would separate here." He tugged at his steed's reigns, starting down the right pathway. "I'll take the shorter route back; the flat earth allows my horse to run along it faster."

You couldn't get another word in as he promptly sped away, a small dust cloud kicking up beneath the horse's hooves. You were left with the tree's aged silence, the twittering of birds and rustle of leaves keeping you grounded to the present.

"...I don't mean to add to your anger, Princess," Karamatsu started, guiding his horse to the other path, "but I was hoping that we could get some time alone like this."

"And why would you want that?" You huffed. Your brow twitched a fraction as you saw your hands had already planted themselves back onto his torso as the animal moved.

"So that I am able to answer your questions." He turned his head back to you with a smile, the sunlight filtering through the trees illuminating his upper face brightly. You were getting sick of the world painting him to be some kind of ethereal being. He was a good-for-nothing prince. Nothing more.

"Then answer them," you snarled without thinking twice about it. He nodded in agreement, turning back to focus on navigating his way through the earthy terrain, watching out for the large tree roots breaking through the dirt.

"What was the point of those flowers?"

A small silence came over Karamatsu as he furrowed his thick brows, ordering his frantic thoughts together. He wanted to answer the honest truth, but he also knew that your temper was akin to very fragile glass — touch too hard, even just a gentle brush, and the results could be shattering. Or, it wouldn't fall apart, and you wouldn't be frustrated. For a moment, his mind wandered to his younger brother. Your personalities were quite similar.

"Originally, there wasn't a point to the flowers," his words were slow and cautious, carefully putting them together as he finally came to a decision.

"I had heard in the early hours of the morning that you still hadn't awoken, and so I took a stroll around your palace garden. I've never seen such beautifully groomed blossoms before. Truly a spectacle, and I expected nothing less of this flourishing kingdom.

"It was then that I saw the hyacinths. In my kingdom, these flowers are already rare to find, and so upon seeing their vibrant colour, I couldn't help but be reminded of you."

You blinked owlishly at the back of his head.

"Rare beauty. That was my first impression of you when I first stepped out of my carriage. And, despite what you may think, our exchange under the moon's gaze did not change my perspective of you, Princess."

You were in disbelief. He must be more delusional than you thought.

"I had wanted to give you the flowers as a token to your beauty, until the one who handed me the flowers told me something interesting: the flower's meaning. I knew then that I had to give them to you, and hoped that you would understand."

...

"... You still haven't answered my question." Karamatsu stilled at your flat tone. Devoid of emotion. It was unsettling, hearing it from you. "Why are you sorry?"

"Ah, because.." he sighed heavily. "Because ever since I stepped foot here, I've caused you nothing but distress and despair. I have a feeling that you felt this way ever since our engagement was announced, too."

The forest ambiance had grown quieter. It was as if the birds had never been there at all. The sun still shone down from above, rays of sunlight lighting the way forward. The pathway curved behind the frame of a tall, wise oak tree. You were unable to see beyond it. Whatever lay ahead of you was a mystery.

"So, I apologise, Princess [Y/N]. For not being the man you had been waiting for."

"I still don't get it."

"..Come again?"

"I don't get why you're apologising. To me."

Your fingers tightened around the fabric of his shirt. Even through the clothing, you could feel that he was warm, radiating a subtle heat against your hands. You concentrate on that, hoping the tightness in your throat would go away.

"What's the point in you apologising when you haven't —" you bit your tongue, quickly rephrasing your wording, "—when you know, that nothing's going to change? Why waste your time trying to appease me?"

Rounding the large trunk, the trees ahead of you began forming a kind of leafy archway, leading to an opening out of the forest.

"I've always believed that people can change, no matter who they are," Karamatsu responded firmly. "Even though it may not seem like, the changes a person can go through can bring out such wondrous beauty. I wish to see it, if you will allow me to."

Light beamed down on the both of you as you broke through the forest finally, blinding you for a moment. Rubbing at your eyes, you slowly opened them up, sucking in a sharp breath at the sight around you.

Dazzling, bright Cala lilies flowed like a white sea with the wind, fields of them stretching for miles, as far as the eye could see. Amongst them were clusters of daisies, small and dainty petals that seemed to dance to an unheard tune.

You had never seen this field before. Never had you seen such an abundance of flowers blooming so elegantly like this. It was a sight that made your eyes widen in an almost child-like wonder. A part of you wished to jump off of your seat and run into the field, dancing along with the flowers.

"I've never seen these flowers before!" Karamatsu exclaimed excitedly. He had stopped his horse altogether, admiring the view with you. You tore your gaze away to look at him, his wide smile spreading from cheek to cheek, and his eyes sparkling in awe. He was practically glowing.

"What are they?" He turned to you.

"Cala lilies."

"I never knew lilies could take such a shape." He suddenly shifted in his seat, carefully swinging a leg over the side of the horse and jumping down onto the pathway. You watched as he strolled over to the flowers, a finger delicately stroking at its petals.

Your hands began to feel clammy. Sometimes, you cursed yourself for your expansive knowledge. An image of a textbook filtered into your mind, and you bit at your lip out of habit.

White Cala lilies. Daisies, too.

It was all just a coincidence. It had to be.

After all, you were too far gone to be given the chance to change.

#karamatsu matsuno #karamatsu x reader #prince!karamatsu x reader #Prince!Karamatsu #princess!reader #osomatsu san #osomatsu san au #hesowars #osomatsu san hesokuri wars #xreader #romance #love #angst #floriography #flowermeanings

[thebardisabird]

Sorry I can’t put this under the cut (I’ll fix it when I’m home, currently I’m at work). But what a darling prompt! Prince Karamatsu x Maid!Reader! Please enjoy~

——-

Another year, another ball. His birthday no less, shared with his five other brothers. Every May the castle would be wrapped up in absolute chaos blueprinting the plans for the Matsuno princes. Normally Karamatsu thoroughly enjoyed the festivities: the lively music, the delectable food, even the drink left him often feeling like a featerweight. Yet this year...he felt tired. Bored of the same droll spectacle that came every year.

You noticed Karamatsu sulking into his palm. It concerned you, both from a personal and a dutiful place. A life of servitude was what you knew, though at this point you called that a formality when it came to the azure prince. Friendship was an easily struck goldmine between the two of you, leaving the titles behind and putting you both on a first name basis. You never failed to do your job, but you also didn’t hinder your tongue around him. He was honest with you always; poetic in nature and a great listener when you needed it. It wasn’t until winter of last year did you observe the wistful stares when he thought you weren’t looking, or the blank expressions when he’d peer out of his windows. It had something to do with his brothers finding princesses of their own to court...and not him. Karamatsu wouldn’t admit it, putting up a front and acting as though nothing ailed him - but you knew him better than that.

The prince perked up at the sound of one of his favorite songs. The band littered the ballroom with a slow and soft tune, meant to showcase the princes and their significant others. He scanned the room, feeling pangs of jealousy strike his heart watching his brothers sway softly to the soothing rhythm...until he caught your eyes. Always at his side, Karamatsu recalled the countless times he felt so...himself with you. Your role meant nothing to him, and what’s more, you saw past the crown. There was a genuine man behind the riches and power, and he was so glad to have someone understand that. He cherished you dearly, though you never outright knew it. That’s why, with the music gentle and the lights low, he rose from his seat and made a beeline for your stationed spot. It caught you by surprise to find yourself being yanked onto the ballroom floor by royalty - but it was in your best interest to go along with it, lest the disapproving eyes of the many wealthy families around you smite you where you stood. You were spun around by the prince, you held you in position, and slowly moved forward. Your feet mimicked his movements (he’d used you for practice for years), and you were slightly perturbed by the hard look he gave you. Quick thinking told you to smile, and as you swayed you muttered through pearly whites,

“Karamatsu...What the hell are you doing?” your eyes finallly locked with his, nervous gaze to his solid one, “This is a lover’s song.”

He chucked softly, “I know what it is...and it’s exactly why I brought you out.”

Confusion clouded your mind. You knew what he was insinuating, and yet your senses denied all meanings to his words. He twirled you slowly, and you got a good look at the room - half of the high court seemed horrified at the sight. It was unheard of for a royal member to even be seen fraternizing with servants, let alone dancing with one. You flushed, half at the realization that Karamatsu had brought you on the floor to dance with him, half because you were suddenly fearing for his reputation. When you faced back to him, he squeezed your hand,

“Focus on me, flower, they do not matter here.”

You continued to sway to the melody, “Karamatsu...I don’t understand.”

A short hum was heard from him as he closed his eyes, “For a long time now you’ve always seen me as I am - who I truly am,” he dipped you gently, easing your back over his hand to allow you to bend backward, “I’ve known for a long time now...that it was always you.” Before you knew it, you were straightened back up, stepping once again into formation. Your mind raced at his words, as close as you were, you’d never considered the two of you as an item. Your status was far below his, a fact you knew you could not change.

And yet you’d be lying if you said you didn’t wish things were different.

Karamatsu continued, “My brothers...what they have with their respective significant others,” his brows furrowed, “I...I want that...with you.”

You couldn’t help but go wide-eyed at his statement, did you hear him correctly? Twirled again by his hand you had to say it, “But Karamatsu...I’m -“

He cut you off, “A servant. I know...but you know that doesn’t matter to me. These titles between us...they’ve never held weight.” You were pulled close, chest to chest with the man now, “If you’ll have me...be mine.”

It was your turn to squeeze his hand this time, “Everyone in this room is looking at me like I’ve killed you...” Karamatsu pulled you around, facing you in another direction, “Ignore them, darling, it’s just you and me here.”

You caught his eyes one last time, a reassured smile gracing your lips, “...Just you and me?”

He returned the sentiment, “As it’s always been...and as it always will be.”

That was enough for you.

#osomatsu san #ososan #karamatsu #karamatsu matsuno #osomatsu san imagines #osomatsu san fanfiction #osomatsu san fanfic #osomatsu san scenarios #karamatsu x reader #karamatsu matsuno x reader #princematsu #prince karamatsu #prince!karamatsu #sfw #maid!reader #x reader fanfiction #x reader fanfic #fanfiction #fanfic #fic request #fluff #dancing

[tottymatsuno]

To Say Three Words (Osomatsu-san: Prince!Todomatsu x Reader) Oneshot

Author: Roro (halfeviltotty)

Fandom: Osomatsu-san

Pairing: Todomatsu x reader

Category: fluff, prince au, romance

Rating: G

Summary: you fall in love with the last prince

Word count: 1k

Warnings: Monarchy apologism (fic specific)

Commentary: prince au. hes cute. this one was one of my least popular fics on ao3 but i kinda dont care lol.

| Oneshots | All Fics | Multichapter Fics |

You were not a princess, not a duchess or even lady in waiting. There was no noble blood, you came not from even an aristocratic linage. You were simply a lowly chambermaid with a silly crush.

Of course it was silly, ask any of the other girls annoyed about it. Why like him when he was so plain and unobtainable?

While these girls will admit, Todomatsu is charming, he has four or five depending on your personal tastes older brothers worth going after more than him. Especially the Ice Prince Ichimatsu, or even the so called Painful Prince is often squabbled over. While ever few ladies sought after Choromatsu they outnumbered you a great deal since it seems like you're the only one interested in Todomatsu.

Prince Todomatsu could often be described as charming but a snake. Which is perhaps the very reason why only you have an intense infatuation for him.

Dazzling like the glint of scales catching the light, his mouth poised in a smile to hint of the venom of his bite, Todomatsu enchanted and intimidated you. Perhaps you were the only one to see underneath his deception, you understand him a bit better than others because you admire him so. Todomatsu would like to be seen as non-threatening, but there is a cold and calculating nature that lies below that.

However how could the sixth prince be as evil as they say when you see his altruism go unnoticed, you’ve witnessed him resolve the conflicts within the kingdom, you’ve heard his passionate and practical solutions for the people’s problems, you know of his greedy nature and yet he advocates for the taxes to be lessened when the harvests do not yield high. Todomatsu was the one who said, “Why not give the serfs better equipment if theirs keeps breaking?” The sixth prince loudly disagreed with warring with the neighboring kingdoms, and it was the youngest prince who suggested the castle’s surplus of grain be distributed to the peasants.

Yet Todomatsu, your beloved never once asks for attention for these kind actions and you don’t understand why. If he were truly the man you’d been warned against then why is Todomatsu so sweet? When you listen to the rumors of his ill nature and foul temperament they are in relation to his more loved brothers. Oh, how could the unwanted youngest slight the second prince Karamatsu on his Royal Navy regalia! Prince Karamatsu sewed that emblem on with the seamstresses himself, working for hours to learn how to dye the textiles as well, the maids cried when gossiping.

You paid it no mind, because while it was a nice gesture for Prince Karamatsu to go down and learn embroidery, those same seamstresses diverted a vast amount of time and resources to teach him those skills and worked extra hard to fix his many mistakes. This cut them back from valuable time mending the clothes for others. And most importantly it was narcissistic and gaudy to embroider your own visage to your expensively crafted clothes. The designer of Prince Karamatsu’s many outfits must be depressed by now.

“I couldn’t imagine Prince Todomatsu being so thoughtless.” You said in his defense, which made you lose favor with other chambermaids.

The first time you met Prince Todomatsu was several years back, and you’ve always been accompanied by another maid since you were just starting out in the castle. You’ve worked hard to gain some slight status, and after a very long vetting process you were allowed in his chambers alone. When you first met Prince Todomatsu you were awestrucked at his kind smile, he was nothing like you were told. Yes, you could see his two facedness in the way he regarded you with a slight apprehension versus his veteran maid.

When you greet him in the morning you do so much more enthusiastically than the other princes. You have a clear favorite, and yes you try very hard to stay around when it’s not suspicious because you love to watch the youngest prince interact with others. The way he acts around his brothers is so much fun to see, so you finally understand what the appeal of the brothers are now that you realize Todomatsu’s your brightest star.

Once as you were changing his sheets, Prince Todomatsu beckoned you to help undress him for the morning. It was your first time alone with the youngest prince, and your heart was unmistakably set ablaze as you peeled off his layers of intricate fabric. Undressing Todomatsu should be routine by now, and this certainly isn’t the first time you’ve this either. But it was always with your more experienced mentor, so when alone it’s become much more intimate. Your fingers tremble and you try not to touch his bare skin more than necessary, and you especially try not to notice how soft Prince Todomatsu’s skin is compared to your own.

Your fingers are callous and rough…you feel very embarrassed now. You keep your mouth firmly shut because if you utter a peep it shall expose thoughts that are best kept within fantasy.

He hummed lightly as your made quick work of his clothes, it wasn't until he was in his undergarments that your face flushed and you had to look away.

Todomatsu laughed so charmingly at your embarrassment, asking "Do you like me?"

To which you replied, "Of course, my lord! More than anyone!" With your face still burning. You finished dressing the prince before turning and running away.

That was a month ago.

You had no wish to marry Todomatsu, the dream of it scorched your mind knowing that could never be. But as you dream some nights the two of you would have a cottage and a life happy together. That is an unfortunate dream since the kingdom would soon fall than rather lose the only true sensible royal.

The other chamermaids send you to Prince Todomatsu's room as often as is permitted. He doesn't know your name, but he can recognize the sound of your footfalls as you approach him in his vast room.

"Hello, my little canary." He sighs out wistfully, sitting on the edge of his bed still wearing his night clothes.

"How are you today, Your Royal Highness?" You ask setting down this clean linen before briefly curtseying.

"You don't have to act so formally with me anymore," Todomatsu says kindly, but his eyes glint with mischief. "Call me Totty like all the other girls."

You pick back up the basket and slowly walk over to Todomatsu. "Is that really okay?" You ask with uncertainty. You wouldn't want to make it a habit and get caught doing that in front of someone a much higher ranking than you.

"Who's to tell you what you can't call me when I've given you my permission?" His voice is so light and sweet, something about his obviously spoiled attitude makes you swoon.

"Alright…Totty."

Todomatsu smiles cutely and motions for you to come to him. Never one to turn down your favorite prince, you quicken your pace to him.

"Closer." He says as you stand in front of him. "No, come closer than that!" You inch forward more.

"I demand for you to get close to me!" Todomatsu childishly whines. You set the basket back down and move as closely as possible to the sitting prince.

Todomatsu stares into your eyes, gently reaching a hand out to caress your face.

"You're beautiful." You murmur when your eyes involuntarily close as his delicate fingers brush your cheek. These sort of moments have become much more frequent than you could have ever wished for, each morning and each moment spent with Prince Todomatsu leaves you drunk off of infatuation.

"One could say the same for you." Todomatsu giggles lightly. "I have a proposition for you." He continues.

You open your eyes, confused. Your heart begins to speed up, when the words click together in your mind.

"Yes?" You say hopefully.

"Be my mistress."

Your mouth opened then closed as Todomatsu began to speak. "I can't marry you, but I promise if you become mine I will never take a wife. I'll spoil you endlessly." The look in his eyes meant he was serious. “It’s unlikely I’ll become the crown Prince, and to be honest I feel more comfortable as a duke more than anything. Since there’s six of us that takes some of the pressure off of me, but I wouldn’t be able to provide for you if I completely disengaged with my family.” Your prince explains quietly.

“Since I have felt your touch, I have known a longing like none other. I would rather die than to live without you, so please.” Todomatsu tells you sweeter than any jam you’ve tasted.

You have finally found your voice, "Totty, I would want nothing more than to be yours." Todomatsu cheered as you began, "But I wish to be courted properly. Do you even know my name?"

"Y/N." He says confidently, "I've asked around about you. I can't believe you thought I wouldn't know my own favorite songbird's name?" He says with mirth.

"But if you wish to be courted, that's fine with me! I'd love to romance you properly." He winks at you.

You lean into his touch, even wrapping your calloused hands around Todomatsu's delicate fingers. "Oh, Totty…" You sigh out sweetly.

"Yes, my dearest?"

His response was so simple but incredibly meaningful to you.

His dearest. Todomatsu's dearest.

You drift lower until you're face to face. "Sire, if I might be so bold as to request a kiss from my beloved?"

Todomatsu takes you by the waist, laughing as he pulls you into the bed with him. "Beloved you say? I wonder who that might be!" He teases you, still laughing.

After the initial shock of being in a prince's arms, let alone his bed, you almost cautiously begin to giggle too. Soon as the laughter dies down, you stare into Todomatsu's big expressive brown eyes.

He flushes under your gaze, before slowly speaking. "About…about the kiss?"

He asks with too much uncertainty as if he thought you jest when you asked for it.

"Do you still wish to kiss me?" Todomatsu asks so vulnerably.

"Yes, of course!" With your enthusiasm, you accidentally bump noses with Todomatsu.

He snorts, "Like this, silly." With one hand removed from your waist to tilt your chin towards him gently. The kiss is everything you ever imagined; if Todomatsu was truly a charming snake then his lips shall be the venom that finds you to your grave.

His lips brushed against yours slowly, so softly that you could barely register them aside from the tickley sensation.

You want to say three little words, just three to confess your devotion...but it's much too early. Todomatsu seems to be the sort that scares off easily.

Instead you say with a giddy smile, "I am yours."

"I am yours in return, my canary."

#osomatsu san #ososan #totty #matsuno todomatsu/reader #todomatsu x reader #todomatsu x si #roros fics #issa oneshot

[yume-no-ai]

Drawing this when I read a Karamatsu x reader fan fiction called ‘The Royal Guard in Blue’ by StarCharm on AO3 and I love it so much!!

Reader was Totoko’s younger sister and a Princess in Akatsuka town. Totoko was gonna get married with Prince Kamimatsu and instead of splitting bodyguards equally, Totoko was being selfish and only give Karamatsu to reader.

The scene happened when reader get harrassed by Prince Akumatsu at Totoko’s pre-wedding and Guard Kara saved her. Then they dance in the garden.

I love the story so much! Even Hana looks so beautiful in dress!

The author even promise that she will finish the fiction and not leave us hanging! Cannot wait for the next episode!

#atsuko hana #hana #karahana

[shimmeringclouds]

❀ | ④

╔═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╗ 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 ╚═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╝

Delicate strokes to your hair woke you from your slumber. You grumbled, mind still disoriented. The hand sifting through your locks paused for a split second before continuing.

Blearily opening your eyes, you saw your mother, sat beside you on your bed, which you didn't remember getting into. She smiled down at you warmly, the crow's feet settled into the corners of her eyes adding a twinkle to her gaze.

"My daughter has finally awoken, I see," she chuckled. You squinted at her, not entirely hearing what she was saying, until you moved your upper body and rested your head on her lap. She laughed louder, allowing you to nestle comfortably against her.

"... time is it..?" You croaked, to tired to even bother forming a full sentence.

"Just past nine o'clock, dear. I'm surprised; usually you're up by eight." She raised a brow at you, but you ignored her, keeping your eyes closed. They felt sore and itchy, and most likely looked a soft shade of pink. You knew this.

"[Y/N], you need to wake up soon," there was a gentle nudge to your shoulder. "Your father has many things planned for you today."

You groaned loudly. That was the last thing you wanted. It was foolish to have it, but you had a small slither of hope left in you as you asked slowly:

"...Is he still here?"

A moment of silence, and then a sigh.

"You should have joined us for breakfast, dear. He truly is a nice fellow."

"No, he isn't." You sat up abruptly, turning away from her. A cold shiver ran through you as your arms became exposed. Glancing down, you saw you were wearing your night wear instead of your dress. It was then you realised your mind was on autopilot last night.

"[Y/N], please..."

"I'm not like you!" A stiff pause. "I can't see the good in people the way you do. So how do you expect me to see anything in him? A man who knows nothing of the world other than the fantasies he has been brought up with?"

You received no answer. Standing from your bed, you marched over to your dresser, pulling open the drawers. Something caught your eye, and you froze.

The vase you kept on your dresser was always empty. You came to dislike filling it with flowers, as the dying petals would always make a mess. It annoyed you to no end, how quickly flowers could wilt away. Too quickly.

But here, now, it was full. Fresh and vibrant hyacinths were placed in the vase, their petals bursting full of colour and life. They weren't leaning heavily to one side, like yours used to. They stood tall and proud, soaking up the sunlight just entering your room.

"Prince Karamatsu asked the maids to send these up to you." You flinched at the name.

"The only reason you cannot see the good in others is because you are always looking for the bad. If that's all you can see, then you will remain blind to the good." Your mother stood, leaving the room. Grasping the handle to your door, she looked back to you one more time, a smile still present. It looked all too familiar.

"He is not a bad person. Give him a chance."

The door shut behind her with a soft thud, leaving the room silent once more. You brought your gaze back to the flowers. They just had to be purple, didn't they?

➳༻❀✿❀༺➳

"Horse riding?" you cringed. You eyed the horses with disdain, taking a step back as one of them shook their mane.

Your father came over to your side, hands on his hips as he smiled proudly at the selection of horses before him. Karamatsu was over by his own white-haired horse which had been brought over for him, busy patting its nuzzle with a fond smirk.

"But of course! The weather is perfect for it, don't you think?"

"No.." you grumbled under your breath, somewhat glad he hadn't heard you. Your father also went over to feed an apple to his horse, taking a brush and smoothing out its chestnut hair. You stood frigidly, unsure of what to do. You were desperate to walk back to the castle, but something was stopping you. And it was irritating you, how you couldn't figure out what it was.

Slowly, your eyes wandered around the stable, trailing over the golden hay scattered across the floor, to the resting horses, to the walls... then to him.

He didn't look any different from the first time you had met him. He looked so unbothered by the encounter he had with you last night, despite sending you those flowers. You found it unfair, how easy it was for him to hide his emotions like that.

Karamatsu felt something on him. He turned to you, his dark eyes connecting with your own and, for a split second, the world became still. There was no noise, no movement. Just the two of you, in a single frame. He nodded towards you, his smirk morphing into a smile.

"Princess—" You jolted, catching your surprised yelp before it could leave your throat. Your brow twitched as you turned on your heel, glowering at your butler.

"What?"

"M-My apologies!" Tanuki stammered, clearing his throat. "Your steed is ready for you, Princess," the older man bowed formally, guiding you out of the stable and onto the flat grassland. A black horse, a very strong looking one at that, stood idly before you, it's equally black eyes staring into nothing.

You grabbed a hold of Tanuki, pulling him to one side as you hissed into his ear.

"Tanuki, this is ridiculous!"

"I understand, but I am afraid there is nothing I can do, Princess..."

"Yes, there is! Take me to my study room!"

"Your father ordered me to keep you here for this activity, Princess," he sighed, eyeing you sympathetically. He gently coaxed your iron grip on his arm off of him, gesturing to the horse.

"You must brave through it."

He stepped away, just as your father and Karamatsu came out of the stables atop their horses, chatting away as they manoeuvred their beasts with ease. The twinge of jealousy you had felt before came back with full force, the burning fire of competition raging within you.

With new found resolution, you stepped up to the dark horse, stopping beside the saddle. You readied your hands against the leather, placing a foot in the small holster. Then, you paused. Then, you didn't move. Taking a deep breath, you willed yourself to push upwards and to sit on the damn horse, but your body wouldn't cooperate. The chatter from behind you had died down. Your brow twitched.

"My daughter, do you need some help?" You heard your father call, but you ignored him. You tried again with a huff, pushing up with all your might, barely lifting yourself off of the ground.

"Princess..."

"I don't need help!" You denied. You hated how your face burned in embarrassment. You felt like the court jester, making a complete fool of yourself. You knew this was a bad idea. How could your father have forgotten you didn't know how to ride a horse?

"Princess [Y/N]?"

"What?!"

You frustrated comments trailed off as a gloved hand was extended towards you. You followed it up, finding Karamatsu's kind face peering down at you.

"Perhaps it would be easier if you were to ride with me, instead?"

You were confused. What made him so different from everybody else? Why was he being so nice to you? You didn't need his pity, if that's what he was doing. You didn't need him to feel sorry for you. You didn't need him at all.

And yet, looking into his eyes, you saw no ill intent. Only a shimmer of hope. Hope for what? You couldn't understand. And you always understood everything.

You grit your teeth harshly.

With heavy reluctance, you grasped his outstretched palm, eyes widening by a fraction as he easily hauled you up to sit behind him, your skirts flowing off the side of his steed. Slowly, you placed your hands on his waist, not wanting to hold and be closer to him anymore than you already were.

"...Well, then," you father cleared his throat, stunned by what he had just witnessed, "Let's set off, shall we?" He tugged at his reigns, turning around and heading down the thin trail into the castle's forest. Karamatsu glanced back at you.

"Are you ready, Princess?"

"Just go already."

He chuckled softly in response, following behind the king. You wobbled in surprise at the sudden movement of the horse, gripping onto him just a tad bit tighter.

You peered around his broad shoulders, making sure that your father was out of earshot before you leaned up to his ear. You felt him shiver at the feeling of your warm breath hitting his skin. He tightened his hold on the reigns.

"Eh—?"

"Why purple? What do you have to be sorry for?"

#sorry for disappearing again ;-; #i hope you all enjoy this chpter! <3 #karamatsu matsuno #karamatsu x reader #Prince!Karamatsu #prince!karamatsu x reader #Prince!AU #princess!reader #Royalty!AU #floriography #osomatsu san #osomatsu san hesokuri wars #romance #lvoe #hate to love

[shimmeringclouds]

❀ | ③

╔═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╗

𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠.

╚═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╝

"What do you think, dear?" Your mother turned to you with a smile. "A horse ride with your future husband sounds quite relaxing, don't you think?"

"It would be quite relaxing, if my future husband actually knew how to ride horses instead of betting on them," you replied flatly, staring right into the man's dark eyes. He met your deadpan look with a smug grin, corners of his mouth curling upwards.

"Touché, my love!" You grit your teeth at the pet name. "Although, I am quite certain you will enjoy the riveting show of horse racing just as much, with my presence by your side!"

"I'm sure she will come to enjoy a few games!" your father agreed. "I myself cannot deny the joy of horse betting."

"Wonderful story, father," you rolled your eyes. Standing up from your seat, you bunched up your skirts as you began making a hasty exit. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have more important matters to worry about," you turned back with a spiteful glare, "such as making sure my kingdom doesn't fall to ruins."

You never liked waiting for responses, and so you left with those final words hanging in the air. Your platter of food had barely been touched, but who could blame you? Your appetite was no longer with you after having to sit at a table with three people who you currently felt nothing but anger towards.

You didn't actually know what you were going to do after leaving the dining hall. If you were being honest, you didn't particularly feel like studying or reading -- you were sure that if you picked up a book, or any object for that matter, it would just end up being hurled at the wall.

Your stomach churned uncomfortably as you stalked down the large, empty hallways. Your footsteps echoed around you, too loud for your tastes. They rang in your ears like high-pitched white noise, never ending, ringing and ringing. It made your chest feel tight. Which you found odd; you were sure you hadn't worn a corset on this particular day.

Everything seemed to be doing a great job at ticking you off, so you took a sharp left instead of a right towards your quarters, heading for the garden. You paused in the glass doorway, eyes scanning over the tall bushes and bunches of flowers decorating the space. The large fountain could just about be seen in the distance, the moon above casting a glinting glow on its running water.

Taking careful steps down, you sighed heavily as your foot made contact with the gravelled pathway, the crunching stones muffling the sound of your heels greatly. You spotted a few guards patrolling the perimeter, each of them giving you a stiff bow before marching onward, their guns propped against their shoulders. You held your tongue this time as they passed.

It was dark, but not dark enough so that you couldn't see where you were going. A breeze swept by, but it's calming nature was lost on you. You slowed your quick pace down to a gentle walk, eyeing the delicately trimmed hedges that stood tall around you.

In most kingdoms, the hedges would be covered in roses, always deep crimson, and always blooming. You had always wondered if they were even real. You had touched their petals, but they didn't feel like silk; thy felt rough and fabricated. Empty, with no sense of care oozing from their centres. They were just as fake as the smiles others had sent your way, ever since you were young.

You raised a hand, stretching a single finger outward towards the flower. It's bleeding colours were darkened under the night sky. For a moment, you forgot that roses were red. This one looked black. Pure black, a darkened abyss, swirling and writhing, contorting into sneering faces. It swayed in the breeze, laughing and mocking you.

You returned your hand. Turning away, you headed towards the fountain, taking a seat on its marble ring. Your tiara was in your hands again. You could barely make out it's engraved designs. The cut gems had lost their flare. They were dull, now. They were nothing more than stones to you. Nothing special. Nothing unique. Nothing. Nothing. Nothing.

Amidst the trickling of water from behind you, a pair of footsteps sounded from nearby. You straightened your posture, replacing the tiara above your locks, glancing over to your right. A horrible glare graced your features when you saw who it was.

"Please, wait! Don't leave yet!" Karamatsu spoke first, hastening his walk into a jog to reach you. He looked like a lost puppy, eyes wide and brows upturned as he begged you through his dark orbs to stay.

'Pathetic.'

"Well? What do you want?" you snapped, crossing your arms over your chest as you turned your nose up in spite. The man took a deep breath, whether in relief or to calm his anger, you didn't care.

"Princess, I... Would it be alright if I sat with you here?" He timidly asked, a small smile on his lips. It wasn't the same one as before. You raised a brow.

"That's what you came all the way out here for?" You sighed heavily, standing from your seat. "I don't have to time to waste on the likes of you." You began walking away, annoyance rolling off of you in waves.

"No-- Wait!" He grabbed a hold of your wrist, harshly halting your movements. "I just meant that--"

"Don't you get it?" you whipped around, boring your hardened gaze into his own eyes. He flinched at the look. "You are nothing but a burden to me. I want nothing to do with you, and there is nothing you can do to change my mind!" your voice raised with each word, and you caught yourself before it could get any worse.

Taking a deep breath, you yanked your wrist out of his hand.

"I'm giving you one more warning. Leave by morning, if you know what's good for you." You turned away once more.

"...Do you really hate me that much?"

His voice was soft and gentle. No trace of anger was there in his words. Not even sadness. It was an emotion you couldn't quite identify. You turned to look at him. The moon shone down over him, casting a ghostly glow over his face.

He was smiling. Now you knew what it was. It was understanding.

"...I see," he bowed low to you, the same way he did when he first met you. "I bid you a goodnight, Princess. Sleep well."

You had no words. Nothing left your lips, although they were parted. You stared at him for a moment, then you turned and finally walked away. Reaching the steps back up the castle, you paused, the itching urge to look back one more time biting at you, but you fought against it.

You didn't care. You didn't care. You didn't.

The castle was quiet now. Your footsteps didn't bother you this time. The emptiness didn't disturb you this time. Your stomach was no longer churning. All was still. Was it always this quiet?

Reaching your room, you didn't bother to change out of your dress just yet. Instead, you moved towards you tall window in the dark, moving away the thick curtains. You sank to the ground, your skirts flattening out around you like a withering flower. You stared upwards, towards the moon.

A plain white disc in the sky. Greying in some areas. A soft, dark shadow surrounding its edges. The stars couldn't sparkle as bright as the moon. No matter what. The stars that hung in the night sky could never, ever, shine as bright as the moon.

You sat there, nails digging into your upper arms as you lost yourself in thought. The moon rose higher and higher. So many thoughts, and at the same time, nothing at all.

#updating both my fics today heh #hope you like it! <333 #karamatsu #karamatsu matsuno #karamatsuxreader #karamatsu x reader #Prince!Karamatsu #prince!karamatsu x reader #royalty!AU #princess!reader #romance #love #angst #reader is a meanie #hate to love

[shimmeringclouds]

❀ | ⑥

╔═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╗ 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 ╚═════ °• ♔ •° ═════╝

Setting down his teacup with a sigh, Karamatsu's gaze didn't wander from the perfect view of the gardens just behind the large windows.

It had been a few days since he had gone on that magical horse ride through the forest with you, and ever since you had arrived back at your palace, it seemed as if you had been avoiding him. Which he found to be most unfortunate, as he had found the conversation the both of you had then was heartfelt and honest, and he even thought that it had brought you two ever so slightly closer together.

Alas, he was wrong. The words you had exchanged with him had only weakened your bond and any chances at becoming closer, it seems. Now, whenever you spotted him around the palace halls, you would swiftly turn the other way and scurry off before he could get the chance to speak. He would be left in the dust of your footsteps, a hand outstretched towards your silhouette and a frown on his lips.

Karamatsu wasn't sure what to do.

His words were true; he wanted to get to know you, bit by bit. He wanted you to give him a chance, despite his reputation as a stupid and unwise prince. Despite all his flaws and imperfections, he wanted you to take his hand and walk alongside him, if not as lovers then at the very least as friends.

Clearly, however, you didn't have the same thoughts in mind.

He sighed again, much heavier this time, his sorrow almost visible in the air around him. Karamatsu had no idea what to do. He had never been in this situation before — he had never even lasted this long inside someone else's kingdom! He usually would have been kicked out, literally, as soon as he opened his mouth to speak. Although you didn't give him the kindest of welcomes, you had at least allowed him to stay. He thought that to be very kind of you.

Resting his palm against his cheek, he cast his sullen gaze to the sky. No matter what he did, his mind would always fall back to you. He would like to think it was love, but he wasn't that stupid of a prince to truly believe that.

"Prince Karamatsu?" He startled at the call of his name, sitting up straight and turning to look over his shoulder to find your mother, Queen Koume, walking steadily towards him with a kind smile. He stood up from his seat, bowing low as his signature smirk worked its way into his face.

"Queen Koume! It is truly a blessing to be in your presence."

"Likewise," she chuckled, tapping his shoulder and gesturing for him to rise, "But I think formalities can be dropped for a short while, don't you agree?"

"If that is what you wish," he flicked his sparkling cape around him, the material elegantly twirling around him before settling along his back.

"I hope you have been enjoying your stay in our kingdom," she started, moving to take a seat opposite from Karamatsu's.

"Of course! I expected nothing less from the Aoki Kingdom — full of beauty as far as the eye can see!"

Queen Koume chuckled again, silently liking the flowery words that always seemed to flow seamlessly out of the young prince's mouth. He had quite a talent for it.

"And my daughter has been treating you well?"

"Indeed! She truly is a kind and soft soul, to treat me as gently as the flowers that bloom in her wake—!"

"Then why is she not with you?"

Karamatsu stilled, eyes wide and smile stiff. He glanced over to the Queen, and upon seeing her raised brow and the suspicious squint in her eyes, he deflated, sitting himself back down and tracing a finger around the rim of his teacup.

"How long has she been avoiding you?"

"...Almost three days, now..."

She sighed, her eyes falling to her folded hands in her lap. A few moments of silence go by, and she interrupts it with her soft voice.

"I would like to apologise for my daughter. She has always found it difficult to bond with those from outside our kingdom."

"No, no, I understand her completely." Karamatsu shook his head, a small smile on his lips that didn't quite meet his eyes. "I am a prince from the kingdom of Akatsuka. We are known for our unwillingness to become kings and our poor knowledge on royal duties. I'm not surprised that she wouldn't want anything to do with me... It is something that I have become used to."

"But it is not something you deserve."

He paused, slowly raising his eyes to meet hers.

"Appearances are a struggle for royals to upkeep, because it is the only thing that others are willing to look at. When I look at you, Karamatsu, I don't look at the failure of a prince. I look at the heart you wear on your sleeve."

Karamatsu's cheeks tinged a light pink, her knowing smile making it hard to look away.

"When others look at my daughter, they see a cold and silent girl, with her head full of pride and her eyes full of malice. But when you look at her, tell me, what do you see?"

"...What do I see...?"

He saw a beautiful girl with a heart that was closed off to the world in fear of getting hurt. He saw a girl who spoke her mind without the fear of the opinions of others. He saw a girl with a strong and matured mind with a young, caring heart, a weakness that she didn't want to expose. Because if it ever was, her world would crumble around her.

Queen Koume stood up, walking around the small table to reach Karamatsu, placing a delicate hand on his shoulder. He looked up at her with wide eyes, akin to a child. Her fondness for him grew.

"Talk to her. She will try to run, but don't let her out of your reach."

With those words, she left him to his thoughts, disappearing around the corner. Karamatsu's mind was onto telling him one thing.

'I need to see her.'

He bolted from his seat, running down the hallways in an aimless attempt to find you. As he passed by the entrance to the gardens, he skidded to a halt, rushing over to one of the gardeners who was busy pruning a bush of purple and blue flowers.

"Excuse me!" He called, standing over them. "If you would be so kind, I need some assistance with a gift." He gestured to the flowers around him, his thick brows furrowed into a pleading frown. The gardener stared up at him in shock before relaxing into a grin.

"Of course! I have the perfect gift."

He clipped a hefty bunch of the flowers in front of him, grabbing a ribbon from his pocket and tying it around the stems into a neat bow.

"Hydrangeas. For anything that is sincerely heartfelt." He winked, handing them over to the prince.

"Wonderful! Thank you!" Karamatsu turned on his heel to run off, only to then back around with a sheepish grin. "Do you know where I can find the Princess?"

"She usually hides herself away in the library. But you didn't hear that from me!"

"Thank you!" He called again over his shoulder as he dashed off, coloured petals drifting around him as the wind carried them away. A woman peeked around one of the hedges, grinning down at the gardener.

"Playing Cupid, are we?" She chuckled.

"That's all on him," he shrugged. The both of them watched a blue blur run off into the distance, mentally sending him the best of luck before returning to their tasks.

Karamatsu ran as fast as his legs could carry him, barely making it down the right corridors until he came to a stumbling halt in front of a large set of double doors, the wood engraved with ivory stems curling around bookshelves. This was the place.

He took a moment to catch his breath, brushing his hair back into place with his hand and gathering the courage before opening the doors with a firm push, pausing as they revealed a vast library filled to the brim with books and rolled parchment.

He glanced around as he walked in, scanning every empty table and chair until he came across a set of stairs spiralling upwards, swallowing thickly as he ascended, one slow step at a time.

His heart was thundering in his chest as he reached the top, almost fit to burst as he finally saw your figure hunched over a pile of books that were opened up and spread along the floor, your studious gaze stuck the words on the pages of text until the sound of his footsteps made you look up in surprise.

Your eyes met his, wide and unsuspecting. Karamatsu's heart sped up, skipping a beat as he saw your skin becoming flushed in shock, his own cheeks matching the reddening tint that was spreading across your face.

Neither of you could speak, finding yourselves speechless. You always had something to say, but now, sitting there and peering up at the man you had been attempting to push away for days now, you found that your throat had run dry, and your lips slightly parted, searching for words that couldn't escape you.

You watched as he took careful steps forward, kneeling down in front of you on one knee to reach your eye level, his brown eyes never once leaving yours.

In his arms, he carried clusters of hydrangeas, swirling colours of blue and purple, and your heart jumped. It startled you; it was if it had leapt up your throat.

He held them out to you, a determined glint in his eyes.

"Princess [Y/N]."

His words were firm but gentle, enough to get you to stay, and enough to tell you that there was nothing stopping you from leaving. Even so, you found yourself unable to move.

"These flowers are for you. I hope these will suffice as a gift, in exchange for a chance to speak with you."

#osomatsu san #karamatsu matsuno #karamatsu x reader #prince!karamatsu #princess!reader #royalty au #romance #love #fluff #floriography #flower meanings #its about time i updated this one #sorry for the long wait!