I was walking, my camera in my hand, just enjoying the warmth of a spring day; taking some photos from time to time.

All of a sudden, a butterfly-prince flew next to me. He made a circle, as if he was looking for a best spot to land, and than decided to relax on a branch right next to me.

I bowed and made all the official moves and rituals while he pretended not to see me at all.
- Hello, prince! - I said.
No reply, not even a blink.
- Would you mind if I took some photos of your splendid beauty, sir? - I asked carefully.
He did not even bother to look at me, but he did adjust his posture and lifted his head slightly.
I took that as a "yes" and removed the lens cap from my camera.
- I am free - he said suddenly.
- Sorry? - I asked.
- I am free - he repeated impatiently - So, you cannot TAKE any photos... but I am free to give them to you.
- Well, thank you, sir - I said with a wide smile on my face.

He wanted me to take this photos, he wanted it badly. I am even sure now that he found this particular branch on purpose. But, he is a prince, so I played his game.

And he posed, swaying on the wind, spreading his wings as if to catch the balance. After a while I thanked him and he left without a word. He did make another circle, pretending to be inspecting his future kingdom, but I knew he just wanted to look at me and say goodbye, he just didn't know how.

So, I waved and smiled to the butterfly-prince. He just raised his nose higher and flew away.

It wasn't until later that day that I found out that the entire country was looking for the missing prince. Apparently he flew away on sunrise and no one saw him since.
He does that sometimes, other butterfly's told me.
He wants to feel free.

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*Full view please.. he is a prince after all