Snippet #1499830

Prince Raelen turned his steed in a small circle before swinging his leg from his saddle, landing deftly beside the stone steps. His eyes hadn't left the Angel Prince lounging on the roof, flute held poised between his fingers. As cheeky as a bastard, he flashed a brilliant smile and saluted him with two fingers. He often wondered whether or not the stoic Prince did anything for fun, it seemed that he enjoyed everyone's company but withheld from actually smiling. It was strange. Finally, he turned his attention back to the snorting horse and murmured soft, gentle words to calm him, patting at its' neck with his gloved hands. Soon enough, a stable hand jogged into view and he dismissed him with his companion, making note to tell the boy to brush him down and feed him fresh carrots; he loved those dearly, and with the long ride it was well deserved.

As soon as Raelen turned around, he was facing Matthew; the young Lycan Prince. Who knew how long he'd been standing there. Several times he'd caught the youngster traipsing the walls and rooftops while croons called after him. He had no doubt that Matthew would never fall. He exuded a sort of confidence only the young possessed, because when you grew older fear became something real. “Prince Matthew!” He bellowed, thumping his chest in his boisterous greeting. “Nothing out of the ordinary—no wars waged, no countries taken—quite boring, actually... but wait,” He explained, gesturing with his fingers until his voice lowered to a conspicuous drawl. His fingers caught hold of his chin and he scratched, as if he'd missed something and he was trying to put his finger on it. Slippery as a snaked, Raelen circled Matthew and exclaimed, “Aha! I know what it is... a new haircut? No? Hrm, no, no, of course not. You've gotten taller!” When he saw Matthew's expression, he grinned wildly and pressed his hand to the boys' shoulder.

“I jest. A crown befit a king,” Prince Raelen expressed jovially. He was thoughtful for a moment. His lovely sister lounged through the carriages window, bouncing with every bump. It was only when the carriage rumbled to a halt that he turned to regard her, flashing another smile. For once, they would be free, even if it was only for a few moments. “How could anyone forget you, Bell?” He called back, rocking on his heels. Dante's quiet figure pushed through the door, his magnificent bluejay wings folded carefully on his back. Sometimes, he envied such things. He stepped up the smooth stairs, halting mid-step to turn back towards his companions. “Has anyone else arrived?” He gave voice to Dante's unasked question, followed by an upraised brow.