Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Darling.” She says, impatiently.

I look up.

“Now, as your mother, I’ve selected 10 candidates for you to choose from.”
“Just pick whoever is the prettiest.”

I sweep my hand in the air, gesturing to the guards. The doors open.

They're naked.
And… erect

“Aren't they a sight for sore eyes?”

I cross my legs. Certainly.

 

“Al-Amir Ajami.”

He's a tall man with harsh and demanding features. His skin is warm and toned. His face, his chest, his arms and his pubic area are all covered in short, dark hair.

Her Imperial Majesty looks expectantly.

I smile slightly.

“Smile!.”

He smiles. He has dimples. His smile reaches his eyes. He wants me.

I make a swoop with my finger.

“Turn around!.” Her Imperial Majesty exclaims.

I can see this has made him uncomfortable but alas, he turns around.

His back is full of defined muscles, much like his forearms.
His lower back has two little dips. That pleases me.

But I am a curious man.

Her Imperial Majesty looks expectantly.

I shake my head

“Next!.”

 

“Prinkipas Mourouzis.”

He's also a tall man, his features are defined. His skin is certainly sun-kissed. His body is clean shaven.

“Smile!.” Her imperial Majesty exclaims.

He smiles. His smile does not reach his eyes. He does not want me.

Her Imperial Majesty looks expectantly.

Then I'll put you out of your so clear misery.

I shake my head.

“Next!.”

 

“La Princess Montmorency.”

She is a small woman. Her delicate features match her silhouette. All of her features are small. She is clean shaven all around. Her hair is long and light.

“Smile!.” Her Imperial Majesty exclaims

She smiles. Her smile reaches her eyes. She wants me.

Her Imperial Majesty looks expectantly.

I shake my head

“Next!.”

 

“Principe Caradini.”

He's a tall man with thick, dark hair. His skin is tanned. His face, his chest, his arms and his pubic area are lightly shaven.

“Smile!.”

He smiles. His smile reaches his eyes. He wants me.

Her Imperial Majesty looks expectantly.

I shake my head

“Next!.”

 

“Prinzessin Asberg.’

She's tall. Her skin is fair. Her hair is light and long. She is clean shaven.

“Smile!.” Her imperial Majesty exclaims.

She smiles. Her smile does not reach her eyes. She does not want me.

Her Imperial Majesty looks expectantly.

I shake my head.

“Next!.”

The Danish, The Russian, The Lithuanian, The Finnish, The Romanian. They don't please me.

The Imperial Majesty sighs.
“Darling… please.”
“This is the third time.”

I stare at her.

“I do not care whom you choose to marry. Just marry for goodness sake!.”

“So I could marry the Gardener?”

She scoffs, “Yes! Yes!... Marry the Gardener!- I do not care.”
“Just give this Empire an heir.”

I stand from the throne.
“Then I'll go ask the Gardener for his hand.”

I hear her sigh as the doors open.

I walk out and onto the garden patio. I see him, watering the flower beds.

“Gardener.”

He jerks his head up, he quickly stands and takes a bow.
“Your Imperial Highness–”

“Take my hand.”
“I want you to marry me.”

“Do you even know my name?”

“That does not matter.”
“Take my hand.”

“I am already married, Your Imperial Highness…”

“You are rejecting me?.”

“Yes–”

“You are fired. Gather your things, I want you out.”

I walk back inside.

A Knight quickly brushes past me. He's in a rush.

“Stop.”

He looks back and stops in his pace.
“Your Imperial Highness.” He bows slightly.

“Where are you going?”

“To the training grounds, Your Imperial Highness.”

“Are you wedded?”

“Um… no, Your Imperial Highness.”

“Good.”
“You're going to marry me.”

“Excuse me?”

I walk away.

“Uh?-”
“Your Imperial Highness- what?!...”

He follows close behind.

“Mamam.”
“This is who I'll marry.”

“What?!” She squawks.

Chapter Text

“Let me see you.”

“You are seeing me.”

“No.”
“Strip.”

He inhales, “Your Im–”

“No talking.”

He starts to take off his armour and then quickly moves onto his undergarments and underwear.
“I understand you want an heir–”

“The empire… needs an heir.”

“Yes.”
“But we are both men.”

“I see that.”

“So…?”

“A surrogate will suffice.”
“Do you have a sister?”
“Or your mother will do.”

He closes his eyes and breathes, “No, Your Imperial Highness… I do not.”

“Mh.”
“Okay”

His build is muscular, that of a knight. His skin is light brown. I see specks of dirt on him. His hair is dark and full. His torso, arms, and legs are amply haired.
Everywhere a man can grow hair is fully bloomed

“Remove your hands to your sides.”

He hesitates.

“If we are going to be wedded, I need to see all of you.”

He cracks a smile, “Shouldn't I be seeing all of you too?”

“Mh.” I strip.
“Better?”

“You certainly aren't shy…” He slowly puts his hands to his sides.
His pubic area is full of hair. He will be a good time.

“Everyone in the entire kingdom has seen me naked.”

He stifles a laugh, “Really?”

“Mh… yes.”
“Not by choice, I assure you… it's very invasive.”

“How come everyone has seen you naked then?”

“Are you really that clueless?”
“When a future emperor is born it is tradition to send out a photo card of the new born in its purity.”

“So they have seen you as a newborn… not as a man.”

“Mh… I suppose.”
I stare. The dirt clings onto his forearms, his hair and the sides of his head.
“Next time you are in the presence of His Imperial Highness, I'd at least hope you're more clean. Your skin is dirty.”

“Are you talking about how my complexion isn't as fair as yours?”

“I am talking about dirt.” I hold my hand out and he lowers his head. I pick out the dirt from his hair.
“Do not project the nasty sayings of your peers, it upsets me.”

He leans back, “My apologies, Your Imperial Highness.”

“I will have one of my chambermaids draw you a bath.”

“Do you think that is necessary?”

“Why would I have said it if It was not necessary?”
“You are to be my bride, you cannot be seen with dirt clinging to your body.”

He nods.
“Do I have a say in whether I want to be your bride?”

“No.”
“You serve the court, you serve me. I needed to get Her Imperial Majesty off my backside with this marriage prospect, and you were the one I chose.”

“Why is that?-”
“May I ask.”

“I couldn't marry the Gardener- he was already wedded… and it is already said to find someone with at least a noble title. And you just so happened to stroll past in a hurry.”

“Ah…”
“So fate, then?”

I laugh, “Fate?”
“You believe in that silly thing?”

“I believe so.”
I look him up and down once more, “No time to shave?”

He exhales through his nose, “No, Your Imperial Highness. Knights aren't given the opportunity.”

“Mh…”

“Well- it is not expected of us to be naked with His Imperial Highness, so it is not an opportunity.” He cracks a smile.

“I want you to smile more, it looks better.”

“Yes, Your Imperial Highness.”

“I'll ring for a maid.” I press the button on my nightstand.

 

“Your Imperial Highness.”

“Draw up a bath.”

“Yes, Your Imperial Highness.”

He grabs my face, I instinctively yank my head back, “What are you doing?.”

“We are to be wedded, shouldn't a bride know how his groom tastes?”

“What?...”

“A kiss, Your Imperial Highness.”
“May I?”

“No.”

“Does His Imperial Highness not know how to?”

I breathe, “That is none of your con-...c…cern…”

He hold one to my waist and the other on my back, he slowly leans in
“I think it is my concern.”
“Does my groom not know a thing about marital duties?”

“I was never taught…”

“Oh.”
“Are you being genuine?”

I inhale, “Her Imperial Majesty was too prideful and… unwilling.”

“That’s a shame.”

“Let go of me.”

He leans back and takes his hands off of me.
“What about His… Imperial Majesty?”

I look at him, really. I laugh.
“No... I would think myself lucky to even get a real word out of him that isn't an irritated grunt.”

He doesn't look as amused. “Why do you laugh about that?”

“Is it not amusing to you?”

He shakes his head, “Not at all.” He speaks so softly.

I inhale and turn away. “Fine.”
I open my bathroom door, “That is all.”

“We still–”

“Please clear the room.”

“Yes, Your Imperial Highness.” They bow and quickly scamper out.
I snap my fingers to him, “Come.”

The bath is half full, “Get in.”

“You are going to wash me?”

“Yes. Is that an issue?”

He smiles, “No, not at all.” He sits down, the water barely comes up to his thighs. I kneel the other side of his legs.

I pick up the sponge laid out nicely on the tray beside us. I wet it and gently scrub his body. I start with his forehead and his arms, gently wiping away the dirt.

“You're much more gentle than I thought.” He speaks softly.

“Why wouldn't I be?”
“I don't want to scare my bride-to-be.”

“You could never scare me, Your Imperial Highness.”
“Be as rough as you’d like.”

I breathe. “What is your name?”

“Nikolaj.”

“Nikolaj?.”

“Mh”

“That is a Slavic name, is it not?”

He smiles slightly, he tilts his head, “It is, is something wrong?”

I clear my throat, “No.”

“What?”
“Can a person like me not have that sort of name?”

“No!” I answer quickly, “I did not say that.”
“I'm just surprised… is all.”

“My mother was Slavic. It was her choice.”

I nod.
“Okay.”
“So… you are mixed?”

“Careful, Your Imperial Highness.”

I scoff, “I am just asking!...”

“Mhm… a person with your complexity is just… asking.”

Tut, “Yes!...”
“I am not your knightling peers.”

“Ah…” He nods knowingly.
“Do a few of your closest acquaintances look like me?”

I laugh slightly, “Ah-haha!- So he has jokes!... He is so funny!”

He smiles, mildly amused.
He breathes in, “As blessed as I am… to be your bride–”

“You will be my bride.”

He puts his hand up, “I am not sure that your court will agree with someone… like me.”

“Someone like you?”
“A knight?- you are of noble title, it is allowed… well- a bit unorthodox, but I'm sure they can bend the rules.”
“And if you are worried about two grooms, it is also unheard of, but nothing permits it.”

“Don't play ignorant…”

I sit up straight, “They will just have to bite their tongues, won't they?.”

He closes his eyes and gives me a tight smile, “I'm sure.”

“If they have a problem with my bride, then I will behead them and have their smooth brains used for pig slop.”

He laughs finally, “Pig food?”

“That's all they'll be good for.”
“You don't have to worry about pigs gaining sentience, those who speak with a forked tongue don't have that ability.”

“What ability? Sentience?”

“Yes.”
“They best wear a helmet… lest their brains fly out of their skulls without a thought to occupy it.”

He holds my face, “Shh… don't say such nasty things.”
“That was harsh of you to say about hypothetical people…”

“Are you going to repeat what I said to those hypothetical people?”

His eyebrows furrow, “Of course not…?”

“Then I don't think it really matters.”

“If I am to marry this heartless and mean man, then I don't think I want to.”

I sit up straight again.
“What?.”

“You cannot say such hurtful things…”
“It is rude.”

I scoff and laugh lightly, “And are they here?”

“It doesn't matter.”
“It is still hurtful.”

“What a virtuous man you are…” I continue to wipe and scrub his skin.

“You can be virtuous too.”

I laugh whole-heartedly “And a dreamer too! Wonderful.”

He hums an amused chuckle.
“Let me clean you.”

“Such a lowranking noble wants to touch His Imperial Highness?... How scandalous!”

He smiles, “So you can joke too, that's a nice surprise.”

I tut, “You must think of me as a brick wall…”

“No one knows anything about you, Your Imperial Highness.”

“What?...”

He gently coerces the sponge from my hands, “No one knows anything about you.” He says, softer.
He gently pushes me, leaning my back against the bath.

“Oh.”
“Why?.”

He dunks the sponge into the water and gently squeezes. He slowly rubs the sponge over my neck. “Because you won't tell anyone.”
“You’re always so rehearsed and polished.*
“Tell me, my groom.”

I inhale, “What do you want to know?”

“I want to know how you taste.”

I touch his face, I feel the coarse hair on it, I feel the subtle roughness of his skin.
“Teach me… how to do it.”

Chapter Text

“Don't get too hasty, Knight…”

“I wouldn't dream of it, Your Imperial Highness.”

I lean back as he leans forward.
“Open your lips.” He holds my ears gently.

“You’re close…”

“I'll put my lips to yours and we’ll close them in on each other, okay?”

“What?--”

“That's a kiss.”

“Right…”

I hold his ears too. He leans in.

“Um–...” I lean my head back slightly.

He smiles, “Careful, you'll strain your neck.”

I exhale lightly.

“We’ll do it slowly.”

He leans in. My lip shakes, I squeak lightly.
I breathe.

“Calm yourself, Imperial Highness… it's just a kiss.” I feel his body heat.

I feel my heart in my throat.

He presses his lips to mine. I gasp a strained breath. I close my lips onto his. He closes his eyes and deepens the kiss.

“Turn your head to the side.” He whisper.

I do and he kisses me more.

“Is that better?” He whispers again.

I nod slightly, “Yes…” I mutter.

He kisses me once more before leaning back.
He leans against the opposite side of the bath.

“I didn't say you could stop…” I mutter.

“Then come to me.”

“Do I have to lift a finger in every aspect of this arrangement?” I crawl 2 paces and lean into him.

“Yes.”
“That is basic respect for your partner, Your Imperial Highness.”

“Mh… another thing I apparently have to learn in order to get a ring on your hand.”

“Certainly do.” He puts his hand on my chest, holding me back.
“Why me, Your Imperial Highness?”

“Because in order to become The Emperor, I have to wed.”

“So I'm only a stepping stone for you?”

“Mh… yes.”
“Maybe there will be a chance at love, let's see how you do.”
“Surely you won't pass up the title of Imperial Majesty?”

He gives me a soft smile, “I would be a fool.” He takes his hand off my chest and leans in close.
He closes his lips around mine and gently holds my chin up.

“I don't like kissing you.”

“No?”

“No.”
“Your lips are too rough.”

He runs his finger on my lips, “You want me to be as soft as you?”

“Do the knights not get given anything?”
“No soap, no moisturizer?”
“What do you do?!”

“That might be His Imperial Highness’ worst nightmare.”
“No soap… no moisturizer… however shall I cope?”

“It is disgusting!...”

“What do you plan to do about it?”

“How scarce are you of basic necessities?...”
“You are the Empire’s knights, what?!”

“It surprises me how little you actually know. I almost want to laugh in your face.”

“Refrain from doing so, remember your place.”

“Oh but I am His Imperial Highness’ bride… a lowly knight no more!”

“You are so amusing.” I sink my hand into the water and rub his lips with my wet hand.
“Don't think about kissing me again until your lips are softer.”

“What will we do instead?” His hand touches my upper thigh.

“What?”

His hands trails up, along my skin to the nape of my neck. “Lay down.” He whispers softly.

He puts pressure to support my neck. I slowly lay down onto my back.

He keeps my face above water, he gently scrubs my scalp wet.

It feels nice. He's careful and gentle.
Makes me want to cry

“Your Imperial Highness?”

“Mh?”

“What are you thinking about?”

“Nothing.”

“Am I scrubbing away all of your magnificent ideas?”

“Don't be ridiculous.”
“Keep scrubbing.”

He scrapes his fingertips–

“Let me see your nails.”

“Why?”

“If you cannot take care of your lips, what is the state of your nails?...”

He gently puts my head onto the bath and shows me his fingernails.
“Knights and Dames aren't allowed any white to show on their nails.”
“It is easier to load rifles and handle swords.”

“Ah…”
“My apologies…” I mutter.

“That's the first time I've heard you apologise.”

I tut, “Well don't spoil it…!”

He leans in and kisses my neck.

I gasp and yank his head away, “What!...”

“I'm kissing your neck.”

“Why?”

“Because that's what lovers do.”

“And we are lovers?.”

“We’re getting married, are we not?”

“Should I…- kiss your- neck… then?”

He gives me a soft smile and holds his head up.

“Ugh…” I sigh, “Don't be crude.”

He hums a chuckle, “Do you know what a hickey is?”

“No”

“It's sort of like a kiss, but you suck on the skin until it bruises.”

“What?!”
“Why would I want a bruise on my neck?”

“I want to show you my devotion.”

“Being a knight under my empire is devotion enough.”

“It'll feel good.”

“A bruise…”
“Are you going to punch me?.”

He laughs slightly, “I'm going to kiss you.”
“I'll do it right here.” His finger hovers over my neck. A surge through my veins makes me flinch and gasp.

I slap my hand over my neck, “What?!...”

“That’s a sensitive spot. Almost everyone has it." He leans in and exhales on the same spot.

I squeal, “Don't!...” I breathe shakily. I hold onto his shoulder.

I feel his lips plant themselves onto the spot.

“Wait!-” I grab his hair and yank him back.
“I don't have clothes to cover it!...”

“It’s barely noticeable, you'll be okay.” He wipes the area with water.
“How did it feel?”

“We're you trying to eat me?...”

“I did it as softly as I could.”

“It felt weird… don't do it again.”

“Okay, I won't do it again.” He leans in.

I kiss him.

“You've gotten quite good at kissing me already.”
“I must be a good teacher”

“Don't fool yourself… I just pick things up quickly.”

“I'm sure that's it, Your Imperial Highness.” He smiles sweetly

I scrunch the excess water from my hair and wipe my face.
I stand up, “You have a lot to learn yourself.”

He isn't staring at m…

I snap my fingers, “Don't be crude.”

He smiles, “What can I say?” He lightly touches it, “I'm honoured.”

I step back, “Don't be.”
“Things like that don't interest me.”

“No?”
“Sex… you mean.”

“Yes…” I clear my throat.

“Sex, Your Imperial Highness.”

“Stop it-”
“Yes.”

“Why doesn't sex interest you?”

“We are both men, and either way… even if you were a woman, I have no interest in… doing… that–”

“Sex.”
“You mean.”

“Yes!...”

“Then how would you produce an heir?”

“The sperm can travel from the liquid, it doesn't necessarily need the… the- thing… into…th…- to- y’know.”
“So.”
“I would just have her insert her fingers coated with the liquid instead.”

“What scares you?”

“Nothing.”

“Say sex.”
“Say penis- vagina.”

“We are done here.” I step out.

“Sex sex sex sex sex sex.”
“Penis penis cock vagina dick pussy cock dick dick dick shit shit fuck sex.”
“God will not strike you down.”

“Was it a mistake to ask for your hand, Nikolaj?”

He hums a chuckle, “They aren't bad words.”

“Her Imperial Majesty would want to speak to you sometime soon.” I wrap a towel around my waist.

“My mother-in-law?”

“Maybe.”
“Maybe if you stop being so disgusting.”

He steps out.

“Mh… and shave sometime, yes?” I open the doors to my bedroom and my chambermaids are waiting patiently.

“Your Imperial…” Joel trails off. He clears his throat, “If I may ask…- who is that?...”

Nikolaj has taken it upon himself to my towels…
“He is my bride.”
“Treat him with… respect. I suppose.”

He stares down at me, “You suppose?.” He asks, expectantly.

“Don't expect them to dress you. You’re still a lowlife.” I walk towards them and they get to work.
“Where are your clothes?” I ask.

He points sheepishly.

“Are you waiting for something, then?”

He picks his discarded clothes and heads to the door

“Don't be stupid.” I call out, “Use the bathroom.”

He clears his throat and walks to the bathroom. It shuts.

I let out a slight laugh, “What an idiot…”

Chapter Text

“Are you an only child?”

“No, actually.”
“I'm the fourth of seven.”

“Seven?!” She exclaims.

He laughs slightly.

“I wondered why you are so humble.”

I could physically regurgitate my food right now. Not one of them knows how to hold a proper conversation other than plain pleasantries.

It is excruciating to watch.

“Why would my son choose you?” His Imperial Majesty starts.

Make note that I am rolling my eyes every time he speaks.

“Uh…” He looks to me, “I'm not sure.”

“Do you even know anyth–”

“He does not need to know anything about me. All he needs to know is that he is going to marry me, that is all.”
“You can butt your little head out of my affairs, thank you.”

I see his jaw clench, he inhales and goes back to his food.

“But…” She smiles awkwardly between us, “We have to be sure that- he… is the right fit for this Empire.”

“And he will be.”

“There is only one chance… I really think you should explore those options again!...’”

“This is the one I've chosen.”

His Imperial Majesty slams his fist on the table, “For Christ sake, child!.” He yells.

I inhale, “We have a guest at our table. I'd expect you to be less eruptive than usual.”

“You will marry a goddamn royal!.”

“There is no clause that states I have to!.”
“A noble at best.”

He stands up and points to him, “HE IS A KNIGHT!.” His voice is filled with malice.

“Still a damn noble.”

“YOU WILL NOT RUIN EVERYTHING I HAVE BUILT!”

I stand up, “And what is it, pray tell- you have built?”
“All you have done is cower behind my mother like the little BITCH that YOU ARE!.”

“I HAVE BUILT THIS DAMN EMPIRE!.”
“I BUILT EVERYTHING FROM THE GROUND UP!.”

“SHE!”
“SHE HAS BUILT EVERYTHING.”
“DON’T YOU DARE BE VAIN AND TAKE THE WEIGHT.”
“THERE IS NONE FOR YOU TO TAKE.”

He stares. He throws a roasted potato at me, it hits my chest.

“And you want me to believe you can run an empire?”
“A sad, pathetic, childish man.”
I throw the potato back at him, it hits his chest too.

“And now who's the childish one?--”

“YOU ARE!.” My voice booms.
“YOU HIDE BEHIND YOUR DESK ALL DAY, WHILST SHE CREATES FUCKING WAR PLANS!”
I slam my knuckles into the table.
“BECAUSE BELIEVE IT OR NOT, YOUR IMPERIAL MAJESTY, OUR COUNTRY IS AT FUCKING WAR!.”

She stands up, “SIT DOWN!.” Her voice bellows and echoes.
“We have a guest at our table, gentlemen. I raised you better than this.”

“Raise him better.” I grumble.

“Sit. Both of you.”

We sit down.

Niko bites his lip, trying not to smile.

 

“Are you still excited to marry?”

“After seeing that kind display?” He laughs, “Felt like home all over again.”

“Are you being genuine?.”

“Yes.”
“Me and my family used to fight all the time.”
“No one stood a chance at the last cookie.”

“Hilarious.”

“My mother used to make this delicious fruit pie, no one would eat the last slice because it would cause too many arguments.” He hums a chuckle fondly.

“How heartwarming.”

“I understand you hold no sentiments, but I do. So I'll make the pie for you.”

“No”
“I don't like pies.”

“But you haven't tried my pie.”

“I suggest you put on your armour and go to the training grounds, I'll write a letter to excuse the absences.”

He smiles, he holds the back of head and gently presses his lips to mine.
“Is that a yes?”

“If I don't like it, I'll give it to the castle hounds.”

“As you wish, Your Imperial Highness.” He kisses me more deeply.

“Hurry up.”

He leaves and gently closes my door.

Fritsch walks in, “Your Imperial Highness.”

“Mh?”

“Countess and Count Delian are here to see you.”
“Shall I let them in?”

“No. Take them to the gardens, I'll meet them there.”

“Yes, Your Imperial Highness.”

 

“What do I owe this pleasure?”

“Ah!”
“Took you long enough” Damien stands up and pats my back, “Been a while!”

“Mh.”
“I hear you two have been busy.”
“A daughter”

Amelia squeals, “Yes!”
“Oh, she is beautiful, Ophelia!” It is like she is glowing. She always looks radiant.
Her beautiful golden hair shines perfectly in the sun's rays. Her sun-kiss skin compliments her blue eyes. “You must come visit sometime.”

“I'm sure His Imperial Highness is far too busy to visit a mere Count house.”

He is no exception to the elegance of the Delian House.
He is a built man, with brown eyes that seem to reflect golden in the sun.
His dark full hair compliments Amelia's lighter locks.

I tut, “Don't be ridiculous.”
“I’d be happy to.”

He pulls out a chair for me and sits down himself.

I sit, they are beside me.

“So…” Amelia leans in, “There is talk around the nobles that you’re looking to wed.*

I sigh, “Yes.”
“None of the royal please me, so I've decided to go for a Knight instead.”

“A- A knight?!.” She gasps.

“Well!” He starts, “Isn't that a surprise?”

“They’re still noble, so it technically isn't against any rules.”

“What is her name?”

“No- darling... That is a dame... He said a knight.”

“You’re going to marry a man?!”

“Nothing in the rules permits that either.”

“An heir!”

“Surrogacy.”

“Women don't excite me either, chap” He pats my arm.

She slaps his forearm with her hand-held fan.
“Whatever you decide to do, Ophelia, we are here.”

“Do you know the man’s name?” He sips his tea.

“His name is Nikolaj Afsari.

“Ah…!” They both share a look.
“I'm sure he is handsome.”

I smile slightly, “Don't be a jest.”

“Well… I'm not entirely sure how two men would go about their…- marital duties, but I'm sure you'll figure that out.”

“Marital duties…” I sigh
“I am not interested.”

“Hm-” She puts her cup down, “What?”

“I have no desire for…” I inhale, “Marital duties.”

“Are you in earnest?-”
“Ophelia!” She scolds.

“You think babies come from storks? Like in those silly movies?” He laughs.

I tut, “Don't be stupid.”
“I know how children are made. I just don't see the appeal for me to do it myself.”

“You are His Imperial Highness.”
“Everyone wants to have a child by you.”

“Damien!” She squeaks.

I shake my head, “He will just have to do all the work then, won't he?”

“Ooh! How scandalous!...” Amelia laughs behind her teacup.
“I have never been more excited about a wedding before! I wonder how different it'll be.”

“It won't be that different. It'll still follow the royalty protocol.”

“Oh, you stone-wall! Have a little imagination!... It won't kill you.”
“Have you not wished for a more grandiose wedding?”

“Royal weddings are grandiose enough for me.” I sip.

“With all those flowers and gold… it's more than grandiose.” He chuckles.

“I wished- after since I was a little girl, for a big flower arch behind us, and a grand jazz band serenading me as I walk down the isle with flower petals trailing me.”
“And my biiiig flowy dress that I would never trip over, because it is my perfect day.”

“And might I remember… you got that?” He raises his eyebrows as he takes another sip.

“The arch wasn't as wonderful as I imagined… but yes, I suppose…”

“I don't have the power to change anything regarding the wedding.”

“Oh?”

“It's against the rules. Everything is as it said in the preparation guide.”

“Well that's no fun.” She shakes her head.

“No…” I exhale.

“Well, if there weren't any preparation guidebook, what would your wedding be?”
“If you had all of the control.”

I inhale, “Mh…”
“I wouldn't have any guests, it would just be me and him.”
“And the officiant.”
“No cameras either.”

“So you just like to elope?.”

“Precisely.”

“That is no fun, either!” She scowls.

“His Imperial Highness has always been so incredibly boring and so closed off.” He rolls his eyes slightly, he quickly follows that act of rude-ness with a sly smile

“Careful, Count Delian… I'll have your head rolling.”

“Oh nooo!” She feigns sorrow, “Not my husband!- not my dear dear husband!...”

“You wound me, Ophelia.” He touches his chest as if he were actually wounded.

I inhale, “Is this all you have come for? Idle chat?’

“Is that so wrong?” She shrugs, "We have the day to ourselves and what not better than to spend it with His Imperial Highness?”
She leans in and gently touches my arm. “It isn't everyone's ability to do so.” She lightly giggles to herself as she leans back.

I smile slightly, “I am rather exclusive.”

“Don't flatter yourself, Your Imperial Highness… we could be sunbathing on a beach right now.”

He sets his teacup down.

“How joyous.”
I stand up, “We don't have a beach, but you're welcome to ride into the woods with a horse from the stables if you'd like.”
“I can ask one of the kitchen staff to arrange a picnic basket.”

“Oh!” She gleams.
“I think we’d be delighted.”

They both stand up simultaneously in sync

“The groundskeepers and the stable-boys know who you are, you can go straight in.”
“I'll perhaps see you once I'm finished.”

“With all of your royal duties?”

“Yes.”
“Enjoy the grounds.” I walk away.

Chapter Text

“Your Imperial Highness…?” His voice comes to me in my dreams.
In my deepest sleep, I hear him calling out for me.

My eyes open to his familiar face.
His lips have gotten softer and the callouses in his palms have started to fade.
Still hasn't been formally introduced to a razor yet… but we’ll get onto that soon enough.

“Good morning.”

“Hello”
“What hour is it?”

“The sixth.”

I sigh, “What is so important, Niko?...”

He smiles sweetly, “Nothing.” He leans in and kisses me.

“Why are you in my bed, Knight?”

“We are planned to be married in a week, yes?”

“It has all been arranged, no need to worry.”

“Our wedding night, may we speak about it?”

“There will be a lot more on your shoulders once you are crowned. But you will rest easily, I’m sure.”

“Are you aware of what happens?”

“We sleep in one bed… which you clearly seem to understand all too well.”

He inhales, he gently caresses my cheek, “Sex, Your Imperial Highness.”

“Neither of us can produce an heir. There is no need.”

“For pleasure then.”

“What?”
“What are you saying?”

He leans back, his eyebrows are furrowed, “Are you joking?”

“What am I joking about…?- pray tell.”

“Sex isn't just for procreation. It feels good between men too.”
“If you'd let me show you…”

“And what do you plan to do?.”

“Do you really want to know?”

“Yes. Go on.”

His smile reaches his eyes.
“I'm going to pull your pajamas to your knees and so your underwear and caress your p–”

“Niko!...” I slap his lips.
“Do not say such cr–” He puts his hand my wrist

“His Imperial Highness is far too modest in front of his bride.”
“I'm sure you've dreamt of me tou–”

“Stop.”
“If you plan to make a fool of me- well then I'd implore you to abandon that plan now whilst I am still a little groggy.”

“I wouldn't dream of it, Your Imperial Highness.”
“I just simply wish that you feel all of life's pleasures.”

“And what is that?”

“Sexual pleasure, Your Imperial Highness.”

I breathe in, “You had better pray God that there are not any staff outside those doors.”
I sit up properly and press the button for the bell.

His hands slide up my back. His fingers trace my spine.

The doors open, I flinch away from his hand and stand on my feet. The coldness of the room slowly start to replace the feeling of his fingers.

“Good morning, Your Imperial Highness.”
“You-” Fritsch notices Niko, he clears his throat, “Good morning.” He gives him a tight but respectable smile.

“Good morning.” He replies, sitting up and messing up my display of pillows.

“You both have a formal fitting for your engagement party.” He gestures to Niko, who is rubbing his eyes and yawning. “You will be formally introduced into society as His Imperial Highness’ Husband.”

“Oh” He smiles stupidly, “I look forward to it.”

Fritsch breathes in, “That said… you also have classes on simple pleasantries, who to greet and who to bow to, posture, common phrases to say to neighbouring royals, simple conversational starters and lastly, how to hold a wine glass.”

“Okay…”

“After that, you will attend general royal trivia, a test on royal protocol, a simple handwriting lesson, a sight examination, a coordination examination, a blood extraction, an MRI scan, a CAT scan, an intellect assessment examination, DNA examination, and a mobility examination.”

He inhales, “Right.” He gets out of bed, the opposite side of me.
“Is that all there is?” He sighs.

“And a meeting with the castle tailor, for your gowns and suits.” He says, quickly. He puts his notepad away.

He nods, knowingly.
He exhales, “Perfect…”

“Do you still wish to marry?” I ask, faintly.

He looks over and he still smiles the same, “Yes.” He says, with all the confidence in the world.

Chapter Text

“Good morning, Your Imperial Highness.”

“Where's Niko?”

“He's at the training grounds this morning.”

“Right right.” I get out of bed, “How did he do?”

“You would be glad to know that he has passed relatively well on all of his examinations.”

“Mh… that's good.”
“Bring me his final scores, thank you.”

“Yes, Your Imperial Highness.” Joel bows his head slightly and leaves without another word.

 

“Did I do good?- how did I do?” He's buzzing in my ear…

“You did well.”
“General royal trivia 55, Test on royal protocol, 74, simple handwriting lesson 13, sight examination, 100, coordination examination, 100, intellect assessment examination, general mark is 90%, mobility examination, 100.”

“I think I deserve a treat, don't you?”
“Do you want to see how my stamina exam went?”

“What?.”
“Do you think of yourself as a hound, Niko?.”

“I just think I should get a reward…”

I turn my chair slightly in his direction, “And what is it- pray tell, that you have in mind?.”

He stares for a moment and a small smitten smile creeps up on his face. He closes his eyes, stops leaning on my desk and visibly shrugs with his arms and shoulders.
He inhales, “A kiss.”

“Is that all?”

Both hands grasp the arms of the chair and he leans in. He nods slightly, “Yes.”
“Uncross your legs, Your Highness.”

“Imperial Highness.”

“Please uncross your legs, Your Imperial Highness.”

I uncross my legs.

He slowly kneels.

“What are you doing?”

“I want to make you feel good, Your Imperial Highness.”
“Say I can… please…?”

“Why are you on your knees?. If you want to make me feel good, go run me a bath.”

He stands up and exhales slightly.
He kisses me softly, “Okay” He walks to the en suite and I hear running water moments later.

I shift my chair into my desk.
“Niko.” I raise my voice ever so slightly.

He pops his head through the gap of the askewed door.
“Yes?” He says eagerly.

“Get on your knees again and describe to me what you were planning to do.”

He stands up straight. He disappears and I hear the water being turned off.

He sheepishly walks towards me and kneels.

“In detail.” I cross my legs again.

He slumps in on himself, he laughs awkwardly, “You aren't going to like my answer.” He presses his face against my shin.

“Why?”

“I was going to suck you off, Your Imperial Highness.”

“Suck me off?.”

He nods, he leans back.

“What?- Those hickey things?”

He bursts out laughing. “No! No!-”

I smack his head slightly with the side of my shoe, “Stop laughing!.”

“Your penis, Your Imperial Highness.”

I stare. “What about it?...”

“I want to put my lips around His Imperial Highness’ cock until he ejaculates.”

I stand up.
“Is my bath ready?.”

“Wh–”

“You will wait outside this time.” I walk past him.

“Ophelia–”

“No.”
“We are not yet married, you are still below me. Address me properly.”

“I'm sorry–”

“Wait outside.” I point to the door. “Hurry up.”

He stands up and walks to the door. I hear it close as I close the bathroom door shut.

I turn on the water again and take off my clothes. I sit in the bath as it fills up gradually.

His lips…

My penis swells and hardens fully. Just thinking about such filth!...

Why is he making things so difficult? He was supposed to just sit there quietly until our wedding day and then he could go away and do whatever

'The homosexual must be willing to accept the authority of the Bible and acknowledge that his conduct is wrong.'

'If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them.'

I… please myself.

 

I wrap myself in a towel and dry myself off.

“Your Imperial Highness, should I call for Mr. Asfari back i–”

“No”
“Go give him a meaningless task.”

“Of?”

“Mh… have him…” I inhale, “Polish all of my shoes.”
“And then he can come see me.”

“Yes, sir.”

“And shadow him- make sure he's doing it right.”
“Bring me a pair as a result.”

“Yes.” Fritsch leaves.

I drop my towel and my chambermaids are quick to dress me.

In a loose fitting white undershirt with ruffled sleeves, a tight, black silk suit vest, loose fitting black trousers and shiny black shoes that have been professionally polished.

A small family crest brooch with multiple small chains clipped to my left collar.

I'm given a long black cotton coat and it is placed on my shoulders. I weave my arms through the sleeves. I can't stand when they do that… just put my damn arms through, it's really not that difficult.

“Inform Fritsch I'll be outside in the gardens.”

They bow their heads. I walk out into the corridor, down the steps and through 2 different halls and open the back door leading to the gardens.

 

I sit down on one of the benches that overlooks the pond. The ducks quack and the little ducklings follow like lost puppies behind their mother.

A few moments of tranquil peace is soon interrupted by his heavy presence.
His outlandish proportions block the sun.

“You wanted your shoes cleaned?...”

“Yes. Did you bring a pair to show me how well you are at shoe-shining?”

He holds up very expensive shoes. They’re nicely polished.

“Mh… okay.”
“You can put them back.”

“What?”

“You can walk away and put them back in my shoe closet, thank you.”

I see his jaw clench.

“Go ahead, Knight. Then you can come back and sit by me.”

He walks away, his shoulders are slumped down. He scratches the back of his neck.
I hear a small groan coming from him. He starts sprinting.

I sit back and wait. Exactly 9 minutes later, he comes strolling back.

He huffs as he sits beside me.
“O–”

“No.” I say sternly.

He sits silently.

The little ducklings struggle to keep up, they’re just learning how to quack, it sounds more screeching at the moment.

I hear a few birds squalking.
“Excuse me?” I catch the attention of a groundskeeper.

“Yes, Your Imperial Highness?”

“Give me your binoculars.”

She fishes out a pouch from her pocket.

“Thank you, that's all.”
“You'll have them back, stand by.”

She bows her head slightly and lingers behind us.

“You bird w–”

“Shh.” I hold the binoculars and point them to the trees.
“There's a Eurasian Chaffinch in that tree.”

He grabs them off me. His jaw is wired shut.

“Excuse me?.”

“Why did you send me out like that?!” His voice raised.

“I beg your pardon?. Lower your tone and remind yourself who you are talking to.” I grab the binoculars off him.
“Remember your rank and how much of a privilege you’ve been granted.”

He opens his mouth–

“I suggest you bite your tongue and choose your words carefully.”

He breathes carefully, “I just want to talk to you so there are no misunderstandings…”
“I want to know what I did wrong.”

“I've told you repeatedly not to be disgusting, yet you repeatedly disobey that–”

“WE’RE GETTING MARRIED, OPHEL–”

I slap him.
“Do not shout at me.”
“You want to communicate like adults, but you insist on shouting.”

“But it's difficult to have a conversation with you!. I feel like I have to shout to get my words across to you… to get them to actually stick…!” His voice is full of grit.

I stand up. “Come talk to me when you find a way to get your words to stick without bursting my eardrums.”

I walk two benches down and continue my birdwatching.

Fritsch stands beside me.
“Did he do well?”

“Yes.”

He clears his throat, “He asked questions…”

“Of course. I'm not surprised.”
“Go on.”

“Ahm… he asked about what you’re like as a person.”

“Mh… and what was your response?”

“I just reminded him that it isn't my place to talk about His Imperial Highness.”

“Good.”
“Anything else?”

“Your childhood…”

“Mh.”
“And?”

“The same thing- of course.”

I nod.
“Good.”

I hear him inhale, “He asked if you hate him.”

I slump my hands to my lap. I sigh.
“Did you ask him if he's always going to be so sentimental?...”

“He isn't like you, Your Imperial Highness.”
“His tongue is very easily swayed… he talked a lot about himself- I think it would be best if you wouldn't go so hard on him.”

"Thank you, Fritsch, for your outstanding service. You can go.”

“Your Imperial Highness.” He bows his head and steps back.

I hold them back up. I spot a Rook. They’re very similar to Crows and Ravens

I hear him slump down next to me.

“That didn't take long.”

“I'm sorry I shouted.”

“Mh.”

I hear him picking at his nails.

“Stop that.”

“I'm s… please put those down so I can talk to you.”

“Do you know Corvidaes are?”

He groans impatiently
“Don't make me grab them from you again.”

“Surely you’re smart enough to not make the same mistake twice.”
“Corvidaes.”
“They’re a type of black bird. Crows and ravens are the most popular ones.”
“There's a flock of Rooks in that tree over there.”

“...Okay?”

“They're mainly resident birds but often they’ll migrate to avoid harsh winter seasons.”
“They'll return to mate in the spring. They’re seen as very social birds and will always form flocks.”
“Males and females partner for life- isn't that sweet?”

“Are you finished?”

“Do you want to know about their description?”

“...Not really.” He says, still impatient.

I slump my hands onto my lap again.
I inhale, I take off the binocular’s strap and wrap them tightly. I put it back into the pouch.

I twists my head around, “Leave us.” I hold out the pouch.

They both bow their heads slightly and walk away a respectable distance.

I look in front of me again.
“Fine.”
“Go on.”

“I know you don't give a shit about me- and that's fine… but if you could please just treat me like a human being instead of some doormat…?”

“A doormat?. Really–”

“Really.”
“That's how this arrangement feels.”

“Now you’re just being childish.” I laugh slightly.

“That's another!-” He catches himself. He inhales forcefully, “That's another thing…!” His voice whines slightly, “You treat me like I'm a dog incapable of having my own thoughts or feelings…!”
“And no offense to the staff- but you’re treating me like one of them.”

“Are you done with your little outburst?”

He stares at me. He leans back.
“I understand you grew up with the utmost privilege and that you were taught emotions were meaningless… but if we’re going to be married- you are going to have to work on that.”

“What do you think this is, Nikolaj?.”
“I'm only marrying you because I need to be wedded in order to be crowned.”

He leans in, “If that's how you really feel then why did you let me teach you how to kiss me? You let me give you a hickey.”
“Why did you get an erec–”

“Get away from me.” I stand up abruptly.
“I suggest you sleep in your own bed for the foreseeable future, Nikolaj.”
“GET… UP.” I yell.

He stands up,
“I'm going to be miserable with you, aren't I?.”

“What did you expect?!”
“This isn't one of your childhood bedtime nurse rhythms--"

“IT’S NURSERY RHYME!.” His voice bellows and echoes

Chapter Text

O lord
Deliver me from the sin of lust
Deliver me from the sin of sodomy
Deliver me from all sins that are too powerful for me
Let me be cleansed by your blood
So that I triumph through prayer
In the name of the father
The son
And the holy spirit

 

“Oppie…”

“Mh?” I kiss him.

“Here?”

“There is no one to interrupt us.”

“As you wish, Your Imperial Majesty.”

The water splashes at our feet.

“Right here? In the creek?-...”

“Come to me.” I whisper.

“For you, I will.”
His hands ride up underneath my untucked shirt and caress my skin.
“Are you ready, my love?”

“Don't make me wait, I can hardly contain myself.”

His smile reaches his eyes, “Yes.” He kisses me and I hear the undoing of his belt.

“Do you want me to kneel, Your Majesty?”

“No.”
“I want you to turn around.”

I do, he entraps me in his embrace, my arms trapped under his arm.
“Do what I taught you, bend down.”

I bend down slightly, he grasps the back of my knees and holds it up.

“You had better pray that there is no one here with us, Niko!...”

“There is no one,” He sounds like he is smiling.

My fingertips are barely touching the stones.

 

‘Lord Jesus, forgive me. I confess I have been offering myself over to sin, and now I am its slave. I renounce it; I renounce my sins.’

 

His penis caresses my opening, penetrating only an inch, stretching me open to take the rest of his inches.

My breaths limit as he pushes further.
My exhales start to sound like moans of pleasure

 

‘Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory.’

 

“Are you–”

“A little more…” His exhaling breaths are just as shallow and uneven.

I feel his penis push deeper, tearing my walls apart to make room for himself.

“Do you feel it?”

I nod, “Uh…huh” I breathe.

I feel my heart throbbing in my chest. My blood is rushing and hot.
“Fuck…!” I whine
“Oh…” I exhale, “God…” I breathe

 

‘You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.’

 

He slowly thrusts his penis back and forth repeatedly. He pushes through the closing walls and forces them open again.
“This isn't working.”

“Huh?...” I breathe softly.

I feel his penis leave my hole. He lets my leg down. He grabs both of my inner thighs and lifts me up, my back slams against his chest.

I gasp and grasp onto his shoulders

His right hand grabs the underside of my left thigh, and his left hand grabs the underside of my right.

“Is this better?” He breathes on my neck. He kisses my skin.
He lowers me slowly and I feel the head of his penis graze my opening.

He carefully and slowly begins to hold me up by one arm wrapped tightly around my chest. His other hand holds me firmly by his fingers on my perineum.

I gasp and my whole body shivers. I slam my palms onto my lips. I feel the hold around my chest get tighter.

“How does it feel?” His voice is soft.
“I'm pressing your taint, Majesty, how does it feel?”

I can only let out a small whimper.

“Good?”

I let out tiny gasps and gently nod.

“Good girl.”

 

‘Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.’

 

“Please!...” I whimper in broken breaths.
My breaths are long gone. It hurts to exhale, my chest feels like it's going to explode.

He thrusts harder and deeper. The sound of our skin echoes through the trees surrounding us.

I exhale but it sounds more like a pathetic moan. I'm just pushing out hot air.
“Mhhph-” I gasp in a deep breath.

“Careful, my love.” He thrusts his fingers on the spot.

I whine loudly into my hands.

“So… good.” He exhales. He slams my body back into him.
“You’re good, baby…” He kisses just below my ear.

I feel his nose bridge press against my neck. His hot breath seeps into my sweltering skin.

“You’re so beautiful.” He says loudly.
“And soft… so nice and beautiful.” He smooches my neck.
“Pretty and smart.”

He presses more on that spot, releases the pressure and applies again, over and… ooovverrrr

“I love you, baby.” He mutters into my ear.

 

‘Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality.’

 

I gasp.

 

I kneel and pray. I grasp the rosary tight in my palms, I feel it grind against my skin.

 

O lord
Deliver me from the sin of lust
Deliver me from the sin of sodomy
Deliver me from all sins that are too powerful for me
Let me be cleansed by your blood
So that I triumph through prayer
In the name of the father
The son
And the holy spirit

Chapter Text

“My child…” His Excellence holds my shoulder firmly.

I gasp in a sob. I sob into my fisted hands. I cower in on myself. The rosary aches my palm.

“Tell me what ails you.”

“I sinned!” I sob uncontrollably.
“I'm cursed!” My voice bellows.
“Father, I'm dirty and…- and I hate everything!- about…” I gasp, “ME!.” My voice echoes.

“Your Imperial Highness…- stop this at once!.” He shouts louder than my thoughts.

I sniffle.

He sighs, “Tell me your sins.”

I shake my head, “I can't!... I can't!” Endless tears stream down my face.

“You cannot be freed from the shackles of your sins if you do not let them out.”

I'm trembling from straining so much.
“I…”
“I'm having… Ngh… nightmares!...”
“Im…- Impure… Nightmares!...”

“Tell me about them.”

I gasp in a sharp breath, “I'm…” I sob. “I'm having nightmares about- l…” I cough, “Laying down!- with a man!...” I sob.

“Nikolaj Asfari.”

I gasp in a sob, “Yes!.” I wail.

“Nothing in the law prevents you from marrying another man. As long as you do not commit unnatural and immoral acts, it is not a sin.”
“This homosexual marriage is purely for Imperial purposes, correct?... You have no actual desires for that man…?”

“No, father. I would never!- I- I don't know what's happening to me!”
“I feel dirty! I'm…! I need to peel off!- MY SKIN!.” I scream.
I sob my eyes out.

“You need to repent your sins, child!.”
“Accept God into your heart and he shall cleanse you of your impure mind.”

“Yes, father! I promise!...”

“What other sins have you commited?.”

“None!”

“Don't lie to me, child. I can see the teeth you lie through.”

I exhale a shaking breath, “I let him… he taught me how to kiss him!...” My voice whines.
“I've… I've slept in the same bed as that man…!’

He sighs. “You need to repent!”
He slams the wooden block down in front of me, “Kneel. You must repent your disgusting sins!.”

I hike you my trousers and kneel on the little divots years of atonement has brought.
I hold my palms together.

“Repeat after me.”
“O lord”

“O lord.”

“Deliver me from the sin of lust”

“Deliver me from the sin of lust.”

“Deliver me from the sin of sodomy”

“Deliver me from the sin of sodomy.”

“Deliver me from all sins that are too powerful for me”

“Deliver me from all sins that are too powerful for me.”

“Let me be cleansed by your blood”

“Let me be cleaned by your blood.”

“So that I triumph through prayer”

“So that I triumph through p–” The door opens.

 

“OPHELIA!.” His voice booms.

I clench my jaw, “Continue, f–”

“Ophelia… what are you doing?”

“Where's Fritsch?.”

He walks towards us.
His Excellence stands up straighter.
“Nikolaj Asfari.”

“Y–” He stops, “Why are you crying?...” He rushes to me. He crouches down and he tries to touch my face.

“GET YOUR HANDS OFF HIS IMPERIAL HIGHNESS AT ONCE!." His Excellence’s voice echoes.

He freezes.
He stares at me, “Are you ok–”

“I IMPLORE YOU TO LEAVE.”

“Get up… why are you on that thing?... Get- come on…” He urges me.
His voice is softer.
“Please,” He exhales. “I'm sorry–”

His Excellence grabs his arm and yanks him up. “You’re disrupting his atonement!”

“What?”
“What atonement?!...” His eyes never leave mine for a second, not when His Excellence attempts to drag him away.
“OPHELIA!- WHAT ATONEMENT?!.” His voice cracks, he sounds genuinely broken.

“YOU MUST LEAVE!” His Excellence pushes him back.

“OPHELIA!- I’M SOS SORRY!-”
“I’m sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry I made you uncomfortable!...”
He gasps in a breath, “Please don't go this far!- it's okay…!”

“SILENCE!”

He throws His Excellence off of him. He grabs my arm and crouches down, “Get up… please, get up- that can't be good for you.”

“I haven't finish–”

He shakes his head, “It's not a sin!...” He urges.

“YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS!”

“I AM NOT A SIN!” His voice echoes. His voice is angry, he's staring at His Excellence.

He turns to me again. “Get up…!”

“YOU MUSTN’T INTERRUPT!”

He closes his eyes for a moment, “Leave with me, Your Imperial Highness… you’re far better than this.”

I shake my head, “I'm…!”

“You’re an Emperor.” He interrupts me.
“Get up.”

He stands up.
“Excuse us, Father.”

“YOU ARE THE DEVIL.” He screams.

I stand up slowly. I rub my aching knees

“Your Imperial Highness!... I implore y–”

“Excuse us, Your Excellence…” I sniffle. I wipe my eyes gently.
“I just remembered I have a scheduled meeting with the Foreign Minister.”
“Thank you for your time.”
I walk away, I hear his footsteps trail along behind me.

“I didn't think it'd be that easy–”

“I just realised he was screaming more than you… you know how much I despise it.” I wipe my pathetic tears away from staining my skin.

“So y–”

“It's still a sin. And you’re still sleeping in a separate bed.”

He huffs.