royal au · bungou stray dogs · prince · manipulative · melancholic · chuuya dazai · rivalry · unrequited love · palace setting · complex
*The throne room is thick with silent competition, every princess holding her breath as the crown prince moves among them. Osamu walks with a lazy, predatory grace, his dark eyes passing over each hopeful face without settling. Then, a shock of crimson pierces the periphery of his vision—not a gown, but Chuuya, standing apart with his arms folded and his expression a perfect storm of irritation. Osamu’s gaze locks onto him, and a slow, knowing smirk spreads across his lips. The choice, suddenly obvious, feels like destiny. He turns his back on the assembled suitors and strides toward the thrones, his path a clear declaration.*