Me: Well then... This story took longer than I ever hoped for. Sorry for the delay update! School has been a pain and I have no more time to write, much to my displeasure. I may have a subject about Creative Writing but I mean come on people, I need to write too!

Ophiuchus: Just be glad that it is not too drastic.

Me: Yeah. I should be glad. But anyway! As you can see, this is a special kind of story. I don't know why it became like this but after mentioning a certain ship a lot here, I could visualize this whole story to be something more than just a story. Get my point here?

Ophiuchus: ...Not everyone can.

Me: Alright, what I mean is that I could see the story becoming a series. There are some characters here that I could envision having a story prior to this story, or what happened in the future after this story happened. They are all connected, which is a good thing because it's becoming into a fanfiction. And as we all know, Zodiac is not a fanfiction, which was pretty hard for me because I have nothing to base from. However, using the plot in this story to create another story, this would make me write easier because I have something to take reference from. All I have to do is to base the stories in this short story I made and poof; another short story which is also a fanfiction of this story! Pretty amazing isn't it?

Ophiuchus: I guess..

Me: It is! They are all connected after all! Anyway! Please enjoy! Sorry to keep you waiting Maria (Aries_And_Gemini)!

Characters:

Male: Leo, Aries, Aquarius, Taurus

Female: Pisces, Cancer, Capricorn, Virgo

The other characters will be coming soon in the later chapters. Don't miss it! *winks*

..~*~..

Leo was pacing back and forth in the throne room, anxiety written in his movements despite his pondering facial expression. His boots scuffed through the velvety red carpet, then he deliberately stopped to his tracks, scowled, before returning back to his own throne, his white long coat swishing behind him. He sat down and crossed his legs, glaring to no one in particular. He was just alone in the throne room, the silence being served as his only company. He wouldn't have minded the quiet humongous room if it wasn't making him crazy at this very moment.

Just a while ago, he was informed that he was to meet his fiancé, arranged by birth. It was his sister, Capricorn, who was the current reigning figure of this very halidom that had decided on the matter. Whatever her reasons were are unknown, and honestly, he couldn't care less about it. He was irked that his very own dear sister decided onto something without his own consent. Sure, he loves his sister very much but without telling him regarding of this whole engagement? Who was she to decide on his life? Unbelievable.

An animalistic growl erupted in his throat, his fingers twitching on the golden armrest of his throne. His eyes never strayed away the chamber doors, knowing for a fact that any minute now someone will barge in and share the news to him.

What must he do to break this engagement off? He is perfectly content being in his own little world. He didn't need a woman; let alone a fiancé that will be his soon-to-be wife. He can find one for himself (not that he needed to). All girls to him are too fickle and irrevocably squeamish. He didn't want that kind of woman. He wants someone who can stand up for herself (but that didn't change his opinion about getting married though). But what did he know? He doesn't care after all right? Nothing.

The humongous golden-rimmed door opened, and his eyes narrowed into slits, his eyes carefully observing his sister's advisor, Taurus. He stumbled before him quite breathlessly almost as if he ran around the hallways to probably share the oh-so glorious and exciting news. Until now, the prince couldn't understand what the fuss is about. It's just an engagement; clearly nothing of importance to him.

Taurus dropped to one knee like how everyone should do if addressing royalty. Leo nodded curtly at him, gesturing for him to stand up. The advisor quickly did and immediately went to business.

"Sire, your fiancé had just arrived. She was just wa—"

"And do I care?" Leo snarled. The temperature dropped instantly, and Taurus almost took a step back in sheer fear. If only he was near enough to see his highness, he will definitely see the small twitching of his brow is doing. Nonetheless, that didn't reel him. Luckily. That small act, however, didn't need to tell Taurus how annoyed Leo is now. Just perceiving him in this state is enough.

"She's your fiancée, your soon-to-be wife. It would only—"

"I don't care!" Leo shouted irately, his voice echoing around the empirical walls like a booming thunder. It made Taurus flinch, unfortunately. "I'll find a way to break the engagement! Whether sister likes it or not!"

"Whether I like it or not you say?" A cool voice resounded against the walls.

Leo felt cold water splashing to his body, shivers creeping up and down as he sat there frozen in fear. Taurus whirled around and instantly bowed almost at 90 degrees for respect. Capricorn smiles a gentle smile and patted Taurus shoulder. The advisor looked up meekly and awe that a royalty herself had just contacted with a mere person such as him.

"Taurus, you do not mind if I call you that do you?" Taurus, speechless, just nodded, not knowing that he had just disrespected the royalty. Luckily though, he realized this for just a short span of time and shook away his mini stupefaction and quickly responded a well-suited answer.

"Yes of course, milady. Please forgive my rudeness." He attempted to bow again but Capricorn shook her head.

"It is fine. Do not fret too much about it." Capricorn smiled her radiant smile, and Taurus could only give a small bow in respect. "You are dismissed Taurus. Thank you for sharing the news to Leo."

"Of course, your honor." Then he left the siblings in a heated atmosphere, closing the big doors with a soft click.

Once Taurus was out of sight, Capricorn immediately dropped her royalty finesse and sighed, turning at Leo with a disapproving glance; her eyes are as calculating as he remembered from the past, "What you did a while ago was uncalled for. Did you have to yell at my advisor like that?"

Leo had to refrain from shouting at his sister at this point, "What you decided is uncalled for as well. Sister, know that I love you but sometimes you're too controlling." Leo huffed, crossing his arms in firm conviction. "I can find my own woman, not that I needed one—"

"And have you ever thought for once that that would convince me?" Capricorn raises a perfect eyebrow, her full-red lips tugging down, making her youthful face seem a bit condescending. "Leo, I never wanted this but you need someone to rule this country well. After your coronation, you need to have someone to have your back and be a shoulder to lean on as you become an ideal king for our people in the incoming days."

"What are you talking about?" Leo almost screamed out as he shot out of the throne, "Someone to rule this country—my coronation—Sister, what in the manner of living hell are you saying?!" Snorting a sardonic scoff, he looks away from Capricorn, a small cynical smirk forming on his lips. He shook his head, the small smirk still intact, "Please don't tell me you're planning to give up your position as queen of this country for me. You know how I feel about this."

"I am." Capricorn said calmly, and in a matter of second had Leo immediately his eyes focused on her, his green eyes widened. She walked towards him just as gracefully as the swan in a moonlit night by the lake, a full smile gracing her features. Once she's in front of Leo, she laid a hand on his shoulder, then, with a swift move, pulled her brother to her, cradling his head on the crook of her neck like how a mother do.

"Leo..." Capricorn laughed like the tingling bells, her eyes filled with mirth. "Know how much I love you. You're a brother I could ever dream of; a man who cares for his country and family." The queen was now crooning the blonde. "Despite locking your heart for the past few years, I know, and was still now for a fact that what lies beneath that cold exterior is a soul with the purest intention. You put others first before yours even though it may seem not like it," Cap gently pushed his brother from her embrace, staring at his now glassy eyes. "And that is what an ideal king acquires— someone to look after his people and their wellbeing."

A lone tear finally cascaded down Leo's cheek. The wall that he had built over the years finally crumbles down into a huge pile of debris, revealing a vulnerable soul inside. He hates his sister. How he hates her. How could she manage to smile while he cries tears in front of her?!

"I hate...you so...much..." He mutters under his wheezing breath, circling his arms around her waist as he sought for her warmth. Capricorn laughs once more, accepting his small affection.

"I love you too."

"Oh!"

A surprised female voice echoed the chambers, and Leo almost shoved his sister away— far away than he had ever hoped for, a small blush on his cheeks. Capricorn giggled at her brother's dilemma, and Leo scowled at her, the red tint maximizing as he looks away. Capricorn just gave a reassuring smile at Leo. She knows that he didn't want to see anyone seeing him lowering down his defenses because that would hurt his pride. But honestly, Cap thinks it cute; how he could switch his personality that fast.

"I-I apologize for intruding the moment!" Capricorn and Leo finally had their eyes on their intruder. A silver haired woman with the most petite figurine Leo has ever seen was gracing before them by the door. Her silver wavy locks flowed down to her waist like a waterfall, and her ice blue eyes are widened like a deer caught in a headlight. She was cladded with a halter midnight blue dress that reaches onto her knees, her dress so dark it could be mistaken with black like that of the starry night sky that seemed so endless. The swirling silvery beads and sequins only added an ethereal effect like that of the stars that flickers silvery light on the lone quiet abyss.

Overall, she's the finest woman Leo has ever seen.

That still didn't change his opinions about the arrange marriage though.

The vibrant red hue emerging on her pale cheeks only increased when she realized that the siblings had their eyes on her, especially the young man who was found stupefied in his position. That couldn't mean something negative right? Oh, what does she know? He's probably thinking why of all the women in this world, it had to be her. Yep, that better be it, I mean, who would even want her? She might have looked too plain and too ordinary for a man like him.

Forcing a smile, she bowed her head to avoid their intense gazes, letting her silver hair do the trick to blanket her face. "I-I'll just leave. Please excuse me." She was almost outside the throne when a welcoming voice took her back.

"No, please stay." Capricorn shook her head, guiding her feet towards the dainty woman. Pisces looked back up. The queen was now in front of her, a friendly smile on her red lips.

"You must be Pisces," To Pisces' surprise, Capricorn pulled her into a welcoming embrace. Pisces could distinctly smell a faint balm of fresh leaves with a mixture of vanilla perfume when she awkwardly embraced back the queen. Capricorn probably is a nature type of kind of woman: warm and calming. The queen then pulled away, "Welcome to my halidom. I hope your trip here was fine."

"O-oh! Ah y-yes of course your majesty! T-thank you for h-having me here!" The smaller woman stammered, pursing her lips to silently reprimand herself for acting like a fool in front of the royalty. And that one intrusion she did, argh, she needs to apologize again. "I-I apologize —"

"Oh my dear..." Capricorn laughed. She really is a cheerful person isn't she? "Please, no formalities." Cap softly smiled, taking both of her hands on her own as if they're longtime friends. "Just call me sister okay? You belong to our family now. Someone who's going to be with my brother until the rest of his days will be considered as one. So please, make yourself at home."

This is too much. Too much.

"O-of course, your maj– I-I mean si...sister." Pisces gulped.

Definitely too much.

Capricorn laughs once more, releasing her hands before addressing her brother. "Leo, what are you still standing there for? Come and greet your fiancée!"

Pisces could feel her entire soul being sucked away.

No, no! This is much more too much than the previous one!

Leo had somehow retained his coolly composure as he pads down the stairs with refined serenity. His face was devoid of any emotion, shoulders relaxed and his hands shoved inside his royalty white breeches. However, his eyes tell otherwise. They were half-lidded; bored and uninterested but they never stray away, almost as if he knows a secret about you that you don't even know.

Pisces almost wavered under his intense gaze. He almost looked like a predator waiting for his prey— that, was in fact in this situation, is her— to make a wrong move in order for his plan to suffice.

Capricorn just giggled; Pisces had to refrain from shrieking a, "Do you have a sadistic streak or something?" Instead, she lowered her face away from the two, finding the marble tiles much more appealing than the situation she is now. How she wished that the tiles could just swallow her up and be done with it. One minute, she was just fiddling with her dress in the carriage a while ago; then the next, she's now here being introduced to her fiancée. How worse this could get?

"Have fun knowing each other~"

And the minute before that, she's now going to meet her blonde haired man fiancée. The thought about it was enough to make her bat nervous to the core. What did she do in the past to deserve this? Well aside from the fact that she accidentally left her best friend, Sagittarius' Persian cat in the living room with her pet goldfish that is. She almost winced at that single memory. She could vaguely remember her younger brother, Aquarius, crying at the thought of their dear goldfish being eaten by the furry himalayan. It almost took a few months to regain his usual stoic self after that tragic event. The young lad had locked himself in his room, refusing to come out that his nanny had to bring his meals and leave them by the door because Aquarius literally refused any visitors entering his room, especially her since she was the one who left the goldfish with the cat.

She wonders, however, what her brother is doing at the moment. The thought about him was making her a bit homesick.

The soft pattering of heels echoing the tensed atmosphere took her out of her mini-trance, and the realization hit her hard like a ton of bricks. Capricorn is leaving them; leaving her to fend for herself. The thought itself was making her insane, knowing she's now definitely alone with Leo once the queen's footsteps diminished into nothing. Weird, she didn't hear any of the doors being opened and then closed afterwards. Capricorn didn't vanish just now did she? She took every ounce of her courage to face the quiet prince, the question ready to erupt from her pink lips.

"Pisces," Leo began.

"Y-yes sir?" She shrieked, and then tentatively clamped her lips with a soft yelp, her eyes widened. Leo was slightly facing away from her, but his eyes are watching her movement. Pisces could feel the heat creeping down her cheeks, her heart thumping fast and loud that she is very sure that Leo could hear it. It only worsened when she realized that he only has his eyes on her, nothing more and nothing less.

Fine, she'll admit it; he is the most dashing man she has ever seen in her 18 years of existence.

Leo sighed, dropping his gaze away from her and turned around— Pisces could feel her heart lurching. She knew it. She knew it. He'll definitely leave her on her own, and order his— "Come with me. I'll show you your quarters."

Pisces was beyond shocked. In fact, she couldn't help the growing smile behind her hand as she nodded quickly, not trusting her voice at the moment. Leo was still for a while— almost as if he's debating over something; but then with a clear of his throat, he faced her but refused to make any eye contact as he held out his hand at her, a small blush on his cheeks. Pisces could also feel herself blushing so hard right now, but she didn't waste any time and slowly placed her free hand on his. His hand is so warm and so welcoming. It is large but it fits hers perfectly as if they were made for each other as he closes them together and guided her out of the throne room.

Dear gods, who were listening to her, please be gentle with her heart because it is starting to malfunction already.

..~*~..

The trip along the hallways was quiet, aside from the scuffing of their shoes and heel against the velvety vermilion carpet is producing. Both parties don't know what or how to start a conversation, and things became only more awkward, with them walking hand-by-hand that Pisces had somehow found a way to avoid any confrontations with the prince: admiring the tapestries and the stories they tell. It's a good thing that there was no living souls in sight to see them like this. It would've been embarrassing.

"Pisces—" Leo glanced away, cursing in his mind for acting impulsively. Pisces was now looking at him, confused. "Uh, I could call you that right?"

Pisces smiled, "Yes, of course, your majesty."

"Please, just call me Leo..." He mumbles, successfully keeping his emotions at bay as he moved forward with such refinement. Pisces nodded, waiting his next statement. "I...Please forgive my actions a while ago. I simply did not mean to look so rude in your first arrival."

Pisces blinked, then shook her head, "I don't understand, your— I-I mean Leo." She quickly regained herself, "You were not rude a while ago as far as I can tell. I think you are perfectly normal a while ago."

"You..didn't see me rude?" Leo was astonished. Most of the rumors that he had heard in his halidom are nothing but all about him and how brash and insensitive his nature is. Leo frowned, his eyes reflecting slight betrayal as he muttered, "Look, you don't have to be so nice to me. I get it; you don't want to be rude but I would appreciate it if you would just tell me the truth." Leo wanted nothing more but to punch himself for blurting things like that. What in the manner of living hell was he saying? Embarrassed and slightly annoyed, he suddenly loosened his grip at her hand and walked rather briskly with long strides. He couldn't face her right now. Not when he had just made an assumption about her.

"Leo—" Pisces trailed after his long strides. Damn these little devils of a heel. She couldn't run like how she wanted to. Nonetheless, she had managed to catch up with him, clutching at his long white coat like a little kid. Leo stiffened, pausing on his mid-step. "I-I think you misunderstood me!" Pisces said, taking a deep breath. "I sincerely think you were not rude. I am not stalling you. You were not rude a while ago. Please believe me."

Leo swallowed the lump on his throat. What was this girl is doing to him? He cannot seem to find an excuse to win this argument he had just enunciated. Most of the time, he would win his arguments no matter how wrong and irrelevant his answers seemed to be. He just simply didn't want to lose and hurt his pride as a high embodiment of serenity to his people. But as of now at this very moment, he couldn't find the right words to have the argument at his mercy.

It was frustrating.

And yet, so intriguing and all so new to him.

"I-I believe you." He gave a shuddering breath, and swiveled to face her. Pisces quickly let go his coat and took a step back. Leo smiled a bit and cleared his throat, "I apologize. That was rude of me."

Pisces giggled this time, "Yes, you were rude this time."

Leo could feel his lips tugging up in a small amused smirk, "Now that's what I want. Now come," He beckoned her to follow him in which Pisces hastily followed. The tensed atmosphere that had been following them from the throne room was finally exterminating as both parties learned to ease down with their company. "To your quarters we go."

..~*~..

Pisces blushed heavily while Leo could only scowl and glare daggers with a heavy blush adorning his cheeks at his younger brother, Aries. The 7 year old flame was snickering at his brother's face as he dragged his best friend, Cancer, with him. The poor 6 year old girl was avoiding the icy glare of the higher prince. Being the daughter of the head maid of the halidom is no easy task. Sure, it has its perks and she became the most trusting retainer of the youngest prince, but that doesn't mean she should be with him all the time. The castle has rules about that, and she had reminded Aries many times before the limitations of their meetings but the stubborn prince wouldn't just listen; always dragging her around with him to the point they became the sole troublemakers of the castle.

Just like now.

"Aries, what do you mean Pisces can't stay here?" Leo seethed, glaring at his sibling with the deadliest glare yet. Aries just only smirked, locking the small girl in a headlock— much to the poor girl's squirming— as he grins.

"Cancer and I are going to play hous—"

"No! I-I mean—!" Cancer flushed beet red in embarrassment, still in a headlock. "I-I apologize, your highness! I-I told milord Aries that y-your highness is h-having an imp-important guest and he persuaded me to show him m-malady's quarters a-and—!"

"—AND!" Aries finally took the upper hand, beaming with mischievous glee, "We're going to use this shit—"

"Language Aries!" Leo glared at his mischievous sibling. Aries ignored him.

"—of a room to play! I told sister and she agreed!" He grins.

"SHE WHAT?!"

Leo couldn't stop himself from storming at Aries and clutching the smaller boy by the collar of his clothes and lifted him up— the boy luckily released his grip on Cancer— to his eye-level. Pisces was about to interfere but Cancer quickly ran at her and hugged her legs. Pisces looked down at the shy girl. Cancer shook her head at her, and that was enough for Pisces to understand what she meant; and instead ruffled the smaller girl's auburn hair with motherly momentum. She then watched the scene before her.

"Go back to sister and take back what you said!" Leo hissed with the most venomous tone. But Aries didn't give in. He only smirked and sticks his tongue out.

"No way! Cancer and I are going to use the room and play! And there's nothing you can do about it!" Leo was about to shot back when Aries continued his series of stubborn replies, "But hey! At least you can have Pisces all for yourself brother!" Leo blushed at this. Pisces too as she looked away. "I just remembered now! Sister told me to tell you that Pisces can stay in your quarters for the meantime being. Besides," Aries waggled his brows at this point and Leo knew what is going to happen. "You guys are going to be married soon, and it would be a perfect opportunity to know each other—!"

"SHUT UP!" Leo hollered with a red-face, dropping his brother without a care in the world as if he was just a sack of rice. Aries fell on to his rear.

"Ow! That hurts!" Aries frowned. Cancer released Pisces and went to her lord, helping him up. Aries grins, hugging her after standing up to his feet. Cancer could only blush at this; her arms limped beside her, remembering the rules that the advisers had reminded her. "Thanks Cance!" Turning to his brother, he smirked. "Soooo," He grins; and then with blinding speed, dashed to the room, dragging Cancer with him—"See ya!" –and shuts the door. Leo just only realized that Aries had just outrun him, and he roared.

"Aries!" Leo screamed while Pisces just smiled, remembering her brother, Aquarius.

"Aries is cute. Cancer is cute. They're both cute. You don't think your brother likes the girl do you?" Leo just gave an incredulous glance at her as Pisces smiled a bit dreamily, "I think they'll be cute together." Pisces nudged Leo, slightly wiggling her brows. "What do you think?"

Leo couldn't help but scoff, "Aries and Cancer?" Leo barked out a laugh. He dragged Pisces by her wrist, chuckling and shaking his head as he continued, "If that were the case then I pity the girl. She doesn't know how a pain in the ass Aries is."

Pisces giggled, a small blush adorning her cheeks, "I'm sure she does but look at them!" Pisces gushes like a love struck schoolgirl. "They act as if they don't care about the world! It's so cute, experiencing puppy love." Leo just rolled his eyes, smiling a bit however after seeing Pisces bubbling with childish joy.

"Well then, screw puppy love and let's go to my quarters."

..~*~..

"Here we are.." Leo was not looking at Pisces as he opened the door leading to his private quarters. Leo looked away scowling, suddenly remembering what made them to be in this situation. He'll talk to his sister regarding about this before giving Aries a piece of his mind.

Pisces didn't move to her spot: standing beside Leo, her lips tugged down. She looked at him warily, "Is there something I should not touch or.."

Leo blinked, glancing back at her ice blue eyes. He blinked again, processing what she just told to him before shaking his head, still slightly surprised that she was being considerate of his privacy. "What is mine is yours now." Leo said, only flushing upon realizing how weird that really sounded. It's almost as if he's treating her as someone who is very dear to him. "Either way, just make yourself at home."

Pisces smiles and entered his quarters with a look of awe. Leo entered after her, shutting the door close with a click to avoid any intrusion. Just as he turned around, Pisces had plopped herself at the end of his duvet, a tired and satisfying sigh escaping her lips. Leo could feel himself relaxing as well, just by seeing her at this state.

"You must be tired," Leo countered, shrugging of his white coat, revealing a white long sleeved button up shirt, as he walked towards a study table and a chair that were adjacent the bed. He hung his coat on the chair, glancing outside the arc window just in front of the table. He could see Taurus and Virgo, Cancer's mother, standing idly at the courtyard, almost as if they're waiting for someone. Leo looked away. That's not his main concern right now. He focused again at the woman that was sitting at the edge of his bed. He could clearly see how worn-out she looked, and he frowned. "You should rest. Take my bed and retire for the day. Don't worry about your belongings. I'm pretty sure Taurus had it covered. I'll bring them here once I take them."

Pisces smiled, exhaustion taking her systems the more she could feel how soft and comfy Leo's bed is. "Thank you Leo." Then she frowned, "What about you? Wouldn't I be interfering with your—"

Leo shook his head, "I said make yourself at home. Go on; take a nap. I have important matters to deal with at the moment."

"Alright..." Pisces yawned, then sluggishly fell on the bed, knocked out cold. Leo rolled his eyes, but then chuckled. He went to his regal wardrobe to get a new blanket. Just as he found one, he went to the sleeping woman and spread its warmth on her.

"Sweet dreams." He whispered, before leaving her in his quarters. Just as he shut the door silent, his face morphed into annoyance once he saw Aries dragging Cancer at the end of hallways, his childish laughters mingling with Cancer's stammering attempt of stopping him echoing around was enough to make him storm over at the opposite direction where the two took.

He needs to speak with his sister. Then Aries comes next.

..~*~..

Pisces finds herself in the library first thing in the evening after she woke up from her nap. When she stirred from her snooze, Leo was nowhere in sight in his quarters, and she has to admit; she was a bit disappointed. She wanted to see him— weird as much as it sounded— he made her feel safe and belonged in this estate. Sure, everyone is nice to her but Leo is the only living soul she has known so far. And she's comfortable with him despite only meeting just a few hours ago.

Which is why she decided to roam around the hallways— after changing clothes (she saw her suitcases beside the bed. Leo must have brought them here when she was sleeping) and fixing herself— just in case that with sheer luck she could find him. But alas, all of her efforts are in vain and she somehow stumbled upon a library.

Pisces sighed, tucking a loose strand that was framing her face. She was just sitting alone by the windowsill, a book that she just fished out from a random bookshelf clutched in her hands. She was now cladded with a simple sky blue blouse and a pair of midnight blue pants— something to make her comfortable enough to freely move around.

She read with complete silence, drowning on every inch of words the pages were spelling out, but after a short while, they were beginning to lose their essence; thus, she placed down the book, quiet for a while. When a tucked strand of her hair framed her face once more, she decided to plait her hair into a loose french braid; then, against of all the odds, a small memory from the deepest crevices of her mind resurfaces once more. A small meaningful memory together with her brother, Aquarius.

"Sister, this is annoying me..." A 6 year old Aquarius huffs and threw away the three-strand clothe far away from him. Toys and miniature stuffs were strewn around the room and a 15 year old Pisces giggled on the bed, putting down the book she's reading and went to her brother.

"So you're just going to give up is that it?" Pisces smiled, caressing the soft blue trusses with such gentleness. Aquarius pouted, crossing his arms.

"No."

"Then," Pisces took two three-strand clothe that were just a hand away from her, and gave one to her brother, smiling, "let's try one more time okay?"

Aquarius just stared at the clothe, then up at her before nodding. His little palm closed on hers, mumbling.

"Okay."

Pisces smiled at the memory, unaware of the tiptoeing Aries behind her. Once he's near, Leo suddenly appeared around the corner and took Aries by the back of his shirt, lifting him up as if he weighs nothing. Aries was left dangling, squealing, and Pisces jumped in surprise, turning at the source of the voice.

"What were you just planning now Aries?" Leo smiled a very sweet smile— so sweet that Aries could feel himself deflating in fear. Pisces noticed this and was about to plead Leo to put down the kid when Cancer suddenly appeared somewhere— much to Pisces shock. How the hell did she appear here so fast?!

"P-put down m-milord A-Aries!" Cancer yelled, albeit shaking to the knees. She has her eyes shut tight, a rather thick book clutched on one hand, "I'm n-not afraid! I-I'll swing this b-book at you a-and you'll r-realize h-how dangerous t-they can be!"

"Cance, save yourself! Don't worry about me!" Aries struggled against Leo who could only give a deadpanned look at the amusing scenario these kids are doing, "I'll find you after I fend off this hideous monster! Go! Save yourself!"

Pisces could only watch, gapping at the cute scene in front of her for a moment before a giggle bubbled from her lips.

So cute.

"N-no! I w-won't leave you!" Cancer sniffed, glaring at Leo, "Put him down or I'll throw this book at you!"

Wow, her demeanor completely changed for just a single moment. Pisces clamped a hand on her lips, giggling. Ah, puppy love it is.

"You've got to be kidding me..." Leo said under his breath. Leo had a blank look on his face when Aries struggled against him but to no avail. The blonde prince then looked at Pisces. He groaned, "Please don't tell me you see this cute."

"It is!" Pisces grinned, standing up as she walked towards Cancer, ruffling her auburn hair, "Look how puppy love does to them? They protect each other!"

Leo could only mumble profanities and things how he would never understand the concept of kids and women under his breath. Sighing, he dropped Aries, and the boy landed onto his feet perfectly like the sleek cat he is— which is a wrong move because Aries, swung his foot behind Leo's legs with enough strength to force the surprised man onto his knees with a pained grunt. But before he could go after his little devil of a brother, Cancer shot forward, and hit Leo on the head with a thick book.

Everything was so quick that Pisces could only witness the small scene happen in a blur. But she did see a faint outline of red and auburn running far away from them.

"OW! Son of a—" Leo bit his tongue too hard that he had just tasted the metallic tang in his taste buds. The faint laughter of his brother was enough to make him scream.

"ARIES!"

..~*~..

Pisces just gave a small smile as she gently caressed the prince's sore spot while reading the book she had been reading the past few hours before the incident happened. Pisces was sitting where she was a while ago: by the windowsill; while Leo, on the other hand, sat on the plushy carpet, just in front of her knees.

Leo hummed in contentment, liking the way how her fingers ran through his hair. He leaned in at her touch, his cheek resting on her thigh, almost encouraging her not to stop with a small purr— but he froze upon realizing his mistake after he heard it. He blushed and gently pried away her fingers away, making the woman to avert her attention to the book.

"Is there something wrong?" Pisces frowned in worry, "Nothing is hurting you right?"

"I-I'm fine." Leo decided to ask the book she's reading, "Holy Knight [1]? I never knew you are the type to read stories with betrayal and deceit."

Pisces smiled a bit, "I don't. In fact, I didn't even realize that I just fished out a book that I have once read from a random bookshelf."

"Really now, that's cool." Leo chuckled, "what do you think? Coincidence or luck?"

Pisces grinned, "Both?" The two laughed and Pisces continued, "It's just that, my brother likes this story a lot, and I would read it for him." Her eyes grew hazy for a moment, "I just learned to love the story is all.."

"Brother? You have siblings as well?" Leo couldn't help but ask.

Pisces smiled with such adoration. "Yes. His name is Aquarius, but we're only two in the family. He is 9 years younger than me."

"Aquarius huh.." Leo mused, "So, have you learned to accept the ending?"

"What, you mean when Iris killed her best friend and league, Rose?"

Leo was now leaning his head on the wall as he stared at her, "Yeah."

"Hmm... I guess?" Pisces sheepishly grinned, skidding her fingertips on the smooth surface of the book. "She has no choice after all. Rose was driven with madness, and nothing— definitely nothing could save her. Only death can." Pisces smiled sadly.

Leo was quiet for a while, still staring at her. Then, gathering every inch of his courage, he took her hand and enclosed them with comfort. Pisces gazed at his bright green eyes as he spoke with firm conviction.

"You can tell me everything, you know that right? Not because you're my fiancée and all, but I consider you as a friend. You're not alone. You have me." He squeezed her hand, staring deeply at her eyes. Those ice blue orbs are beckoning over him and he just couldn't look away. Something at that longing-filled gaze made him want to protect her. "So don't hesitate to say something okay?"

"Leo..." Pisces blushed, lowering her eyes. She just couldn't look back at his orbs. She fears that the more she stares, the more likely she will get lost in them. She nodded, not noticing that the both of them just interlaced their fingers.

"Thank you."

..~*~..

Dinner time was supposed to be enjoyable and quiet, not the other way around.

"Aries, I swear if you don't stop this instant, I'll stab your hand with a fork." Leo hissed between his grinding teeth, his skin deathly pale white under pressure from clutching the fork too tightly.

Aries was grinning mischievously at Leo the whole time and it's making the latter irritated. And the fact that this little devil just used his charm to his sister a while ago to take the room that was supposed to be Pisces' was making him more irritated. He wanted nothing more but to skewer him alive.

"Leo, your etiquette." Capricorn chided. She was sipping her own glass of wine, eyes close but Leo could feel her intense gaze behind those lids. Leo gritted his teeth, but when Pisces laid her hand at his arm, the prince could feel his irritation disappearing as he smiles apologetically at the woman beside him. It's incredible how Pisces could manage to calm him down.

Capricorn smiled at that small scene as she ruffled Cancer's hair. The girl fiddled with her fingers in slight nervousness. Cancer was not supposed to be in their table and be conversing with the royalties, she knows that too well— heck even her mother always reminded her but Aries refused to eat without her by his side. He likes having her in the circle of his family. 'Besides, she's my retainer,' he would say, every time someone asks him, 'and a retainer must always be with their lord.'

In which Cancer agrees, however, it was still disagreeable that she eats together with the royal family. It only implies that they are of the same ranking— her equal, in which in fact is not. And that's what made Cancer nervous.

Nevertheless, despite having a mere retainer around the table, Capricorn accepted Cancer wholeheartedly as if she has been a part of her family. Capricorn had always have a soft spot to the girl the day she was born after Aries' arrival to the world a year before. Instantly, it just clicked, and for years Aries and Cancer grew closer more than ever as they grew up together as friends, and later on as lord and retainer— but still friends nonetheless.

That's why when Aries and Cancer had arrived late for two minutes (with her trying yet again to reason out with Aries but the boy refuses to back down and just pushed her down on the vacant chair between his and Capricorn's.), Capricorn instantly welcomed her. She had expected this since day 1— and there hasn't been a day when Cancer went missing in their small reunion— and she'd rather have it that way because just seeing Aries happy was enough for her.

"Tell me Pisces dear," Capricorn begins, looking at the woman expectedly, "how's your day so far? Leo didn't attempt on something to make you uncomfortable did he?"

Aries snickered as Leo sputtered in the middle of his drinking of strawberry wine. Pisces tittered as she lowered down her utensils.

"No, your grace— I-I mean sister. He had been nothing but being generous to me."

"Yeah! You go brother!" Aries cheered from across the couple, and Leo gave a flustered glare at him in return.

Capricorn just looked at her, smiling as she clasped her hands together. "I'm glad. Have the two of you learned each other a bit more?"

"They definitely did sister!" Aries butted in before Pisces has the chance to talk, "I helped brother learn Pisces more!"

"Oh?" Capricorn gave an amused expression. Aries nodded with vigor.

"Yeah! Pisces is now staying in brother's room—"

"And it's all your fault!" Leo shouted from across him, his teeth baring. He then looked at Capricorn, "sister, take back what you agreed with Aries! Pisces can't— I-I mean, not at the moment that is..." Leo coughed under his breath, flushing together with Pisces. "But it's irrational for a woman to stay in a man's private room when they're still not yet acquainted."

"The two of you did learn a bit about each other yes?" Capricorn gave a particularly look at Leo. The prince could only just give a constrained look back at her.

"Sister, THIS is different! We know each other, yes, but we haven't tied the knots yet!"

"Then you two shall." Capricorn said with finality, much to Pisces and Leo's horror— horror that it only took some words to convince her to decide over something so big as if that concept weighs nothing. The queen just chuckled after seeing Leo and Pisces flushing beet red, "Of course, after your coronation that is."

Leo was still looking at her with such incredibility before looking away, shaking his head, scoffing an 'I-can't-believe-this' under his breath. He then looked at his fiancée, smiling weakly, "Please forgive me. All of this..."

Pisces, still blushing, just smiled softly at him, "It's not your fault. It's nobody's fault either. J-just things getting...weirder and weirder.." She pursed her lips, "Not saying it's weird and all...but still weird and..."

Leo could only smile back, "Yes. 'Weird' definitely fits everything that is transpiring here now."

..~*~..

Pisces smiled when she saw Aries dragging Cancer (again) outside the castle and to the brightly lit courtyard. Aries was snickering when Cancer almost stumbled onto her feet, stammering for him to slow down, in which Aries deliberately did. Pisces just couldn't help but ship the two. It was just too adorable for her heart. She was currently lingering in the balcony, appreciating the cool wind brushing their breath to her cheeks, the moon illuminating in the darkness that bathes everything with silvery light.

"Still finding them cute together?"

Pisces looked over her shoulders. Leo stood beside her and leaned on the handrails, watching the two children with an unreadable expression on his face. Pisces leaned in at him, concern on her face.

"You're bothered. What is it?"

Leo shook his head, "it's nothing." He glanced at her, smiling a bit forcibly. Pisces frowned, crossing her arms.

"I don't believe you." Pisces said with firm conviction, her eyes not wavering. Leo chuckled as Pisces continued, "Come on; you can tell me."

Leo smiled, amused that she was worried for him. He sighed, his form slackening. He continued observing the two kids as they played under the moonlight. A faint outline of a smile made its way to his lips before they lacked its shine. "It's...it's about the arrange marriage."

Pisces lowered down her arms. "Oh..." Is what she could say, looking away.

"Yeah.."

Silence ensued this time. The cool gale swiveled around them, bringing along the laughter of Aries and Cancer that seem to haunt their mind.

"You can just break the engagement, Leo." Leo snapped his attention from the kids to her face, eyes widened. Pisces just smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Trust me; it's not going to be rude."

Leo could feel his lips tugging up at that ruse she made but then shook his head, forcing himself to frown. Now's not the time to fool. This is of serious matter. "Pisces, you know I can't do that."

"But you have to." Pisces could feel her stomach drop when she noticed Leo's face fell. She hoped she didn't offend him. "You can't force yourself to be with me Leo. It's fine really."

"Who says I was forcing myself with you?"

She blinked.

"Y-you weren't?"

"Yeah." Leo smiled. "I love being with you. I can be myself when I'm with you."

Pisces could feel herself blush.

"Pi, I..." Leo begins to say, taking her hand as if it's porcelain, fragile and easily destroyed. He blushed, "I want to be with you. I know we just met today but this connection is something I cannot disregard. I want to know you better if you would let me." He lowered his gaze, "What I only hoped at this very moment is for my love to be returned, but if you don't feel the same, it's okay." Leo smiled a bitter smile, "It's not going to be rude, that I can assure you."

"Well then, it's rude."

"What?"

Leo looked up, his eyes widened. Pisces was pouting, which is rather cute. "It's rude to make an assumption on someone, especially if they reciprocate your said feelings."

"Wait what?" The dumbstruck Leo had on his face is so amusing that Pisces couldn't help but laugh at it.

"I'm serious." She said, her eyes brightening with adoration, "I want to be with you too. I'm glad you feel the same way."

Leo was still dumbstruck. But after a while, he was laughing with glee as he circled his arms around his fiancée's waist. Pisces laughed with him as well, pecking his lips with a small blush. Leo didn't hesitate and kissed her back, smiling throughout the kiss.

"I'm glad that I gave this arranged marriage a chance. Or else I wouldn't have met you." Leo grins, breaking the kiss, a small blush on his face. Pisces laid her cheek on his chest, listening to each beat of his heart that seems to lull her into sleep.

"Really? Were you so against it before?"

"I'll tell you some other time dear." Leo whispered to her ear, feeling her shiver against him, much to his contentment and pleasure, "I want to spend this moment with you. I'll talk to sister later regarding of this matter, but right now, this time is ours."

Pisces giggled both at his cheesiness and his nip at her earlobe, "Alright."

It would've been more romantic if it weren't for that annoying voice of his brother yapping at them with a cheer.

"Yeah! You go brother!" Aries cheered under the balcony. Pisces looked over. Cancer is smiling at her shyly as Aries held her hand, raising them up as if they had just achieved the greatest prize of all. "My plan worked!"

Pisces just laughed as Leo yelled at his brother in annoyance.

"Aries, shut up!"

..~*~..

[1] - Holy Knight belongs to EyeMedia (not sure of the name). It's not a story. It's a song that was telling a story about two best friends: one who is a princess next-in-line of the throne while the other one is a commoner, but a devoted knight. So, it's also a story, but a song. Wait, songs speak of stories sometimes... Ehh, whatever. Anyway, the song itself is in Cytus. So if you guys have played Cytus before, then you should know Holy Knight. If not, Cytus is a rhythm game that has the most kickass music! You should play it! You're gonna love it. I am not playing it anymore though, but if I am bored, I find myself sometimes playing it. Rayark is the creator of Cytus, and they also have two rhythm games called Deemo and VOEZ. I've played Demi before, but VOEZ not yet. I have it in my iPad though, but I haven't tried it yet. Someday I will, if ever that time comes that is. XD

Me: That is the end of this story! Leo's coronation and his wedding with Pisces will be in the later chapters so don't worry! However, they won't be given that much attention like how it was been here. But they'll be mentioned a bit to pick up the mood.

Ophiuchus: Classic.

Me: *grins* Of course.

Ophiuchus: Huh. *chuckles*

Me: That's all for today! Stay tuned and let's see which of the Zodiac signs will be next in this series.

Next up:

@Zoie_apalisok's request: male!Scorpio X fem!Virgo

@bellalidashi11's request: male!Leo X fem!Sagittarius

@pikachuXraichu27's request: male!Leo x fem!Taurus

@Tharizdun's request: fem!Cancer x male!Pisces

@Aries_and_Gemini's request: male!Aries x fem!Aries

And the rest is for my own:

male!Libra x fem!Cancer

male!Scorpio X fem!Cancer

male!Leo X fem!Cancer

male!Aquarius X fem!Taurus

fem!Scorpio X male!Libra

fem!Leo X male!Capricorn

Ophiuchus: *takes another glance at the requests* And you say you can still do it.

Me: I will! *pumps chest* Just believe!

Ophiuchus: *chuckles* Typical.

Me: As of now, I'm going to set aside my plans and just finish the requests first.

Ophiuchus: All-in-all, requests are closed for now.

Me: Yeah. Sorry about that guys, but I need to finish the requests I got from my readers. I don't want to leave them hanging. Please forgive me. I'll do my best to update. Thank you for all the votes and reads!

See ya! ^^

REQUESTS ARE CLOSED FOR NOW. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.