forum Love? You think this is out of love?

Started February 19, 2021 by @Fenrir

tune

"No!" He immediately responded. In whatever much time had passed, he managed to get up and make himself somewhat useful by stepping out of his chambers. He nearly bumped into Edwin who was practically up in front of the door. They really cannot be meeting like this anymore. Sure they're life-long friends, but everything is different now. Now, he's the king.

Edwin was concerned about Malachi, proposing the idea that he could go to one of the vacation homes for a few weeks and relax. Then he added on inviting Abrose, so then he wouldn't be alone and they would have time to bond and be together. For some reason, that initiated quite the response from the new monarch.

All Malachi saw in front of him was a puzzled look. A really puzzled yet hurt one. He sighed, running his fingers through his hair. "I'm sorry. I do not know what has overcome me," He murmured. "It's just that, it really is not the time for me to be doing something like that. Wedding plans had only begun this morning and the council is not in recess. Abrose probably had just returned home. He is not to move into these palace grounds till late March, closer to the wedding date."

His friend hummed. "But didn't your mother arrive four or three months before, and didn't they go to the vacation home in the countryside near the beach? I do not understand. Council will go into recess the moment you step outside of the place if you wish, yes?"

Malachi shook his head. He probably could do all of that, but he really did not want to. There was work to be done. At a time like this, he should not even be thinking about relaxing. Even if he has to carry the whole world on his back, he shouldn't be thinking of taking a break.

"Your Majesty, it is going to be a long time till March being by yourself. And in a time like this, you really should not be alone. You need someone who already is supposed to be close with you. The prince of Carniel is the perfect and only option. I have heard that he is a king and caring person too."

Briefly, just briefly, did he look down at the floor. His eyes were still puffy. The skin on his face held a shade of red. Even for it being close to noon, he is exhausted. Malachi said nothing. There was nothing for him to say really. What should he even do?

"I promised to write to him so that is what I will do." In his left hand, he had been holding his handkerchief. Lifting it up to his forehead, he gently patted with it. His eyes looked back at Edwin. "That is what I will do. Time will fly by, and next thing you know, my friend, it will be April."

Abrose snapped his head up from his desk as a messenger came into the green house. He bowed and offered letters, each seal with blood red wax, the familiar sigil of Atrovia stamped into its surface. Abrose gently took them as ell as the letter opener and nodded his thanks to the messenger, watching him stride away.
For the past few days, Abrose had taken up residence in the Green house, needing a quiet place to study Atrovian history and get a better grasp of their political system. He knew he should have started earlier before the treaty was signed since he was a prince but he figured he’d be alright learning a bit late. He cleared a space on his desk, pushing aside books and parchments he had gathered from the library. Settling in his chair and pulling a candle closer, he carefully sliced open the letter, making sure not the tear the contents within with the sharpened tip of the letter opener. Retrieving a neatly folded parchment from within, he set aside the envelope and unfolded the paper, immediately recognizing it as the copy of the treaty he had signed the night of ball. He scanned it over, finding nothing changed, saved for an addition at the bottom beneath the line where Malachi and he had signed.
“Additional note to be added on the Final Document: Previously unknown to the council after Treaty was made, a marriage proposal was made by His Highness, Crown Prince Malachi Darce Leeros of Atrovia to First Prince Abrose Nightingale of Carniel. As of the date above, the Prince of Carniel has accepted His Majesty’s proposal and has agreed in private to become King Consort. Signatures below from al parties, including that of the two Princes and their respective families confirm this action is neither false, undiscussed, or forged out of malice.”
Abrose nodded slowly as he read the paper again, then glanced at the other two envelopes. Two more for Chire and Lily so the kingdom would have its own accounts of the treaty, good. He picked up a feather quill he had accidentally dropped in surprise when the messenger had came in, dipped it into the red ink he had beside him and signed the first of the many lines provided near the very bottom of the document. He hadn’t realized it until no but his fate was truly sealed. It hadn’t taken up until now, that he felt as if the fixture of his kingdom and the fixture of his very own life were truly being signed away. With that final though, Abrose abandoned his studies to find his siblings, all three copies of the treat held firmly in his hand.

The usual melancholic feeling was lingering in his heart. His whole life had changed in a matter of under twenty four hours, but here he is alone. Alone as he stood in front of the council announcing his engagement. Alone as he kneeled in front of his father's casket. Alone as he sat there during the feast as people's words just flew over his head. Even in his typical loneliness before, it was more bearable. Now with a cup of tea on the desk next to a book on some old love story from his mother's homelands, he felt alone.

While funerals for royal members were a major thing in Atrovia, for some reason, his father had asked for a short and simple yet respectful one in the will. Whether that had to do with the fact that the country had already experienced the funerals of the late queen, Sohan, and even Tiffany's, it is anyone's guess. Malachi certainly did not want to think much about it nor did he want anyone else to. Maeda, along with other advisors, kept suggesting the whole idea with having his fiancé over at one of the vacation homes, but with all the rules, his coronation, and the wedding all around the corner, he said no.

Secretly, he followed with his father's wishes on developing relations with Valenia, and other enemies, through the use of treaties and deals. Although all of them are still in the motions of being accomplished and solidified, he is using multiple factors including his natural intimidation, father's memory, and even his fiancé as a means of getting it all done. Start out quiet, as someone had suggested to him years ago. Start out quiet, so then they will be stunned by your mighty shouts.

As he sat by the window in the library, he looked out onto the snowy forests. Everything is around the corner. In a blink of an eye, he will be finding himself standing next to Prince Abrose wearing the flower crowns that every bride and groom wears during the ceremony. Is he scared by this fact? No, not at all. Despite the anxious feeling sitting within him, he doesn't feel scared about getting married or anything. No. He is not.

“At least they’re diligent.” Lilly muttered from her own desk in her room as Abrose perched on the edge of her bed. He had already gone to Chire, figuring he’d be easer to talk to then his sister. He gave a tight smile as she turned to him and handed back the parchment, now with his, Chire’s and Lilly’s signature neatly signed at the bottom. “Thank you.” He breathed, realizing he had been nervous about having his siblings sign the treaty and essentially his marriage paper. The Princess of Carniel merely nodded and crossed her arms over her chest.
“So have you planned anything out yet?” She asked, causing Abrose to look up in surprise. He had never known his sister to be interested in anything remotely pertaining to marriage. “N-no. We didn’t get that much of a chance to plan much, what with the treaty and everything else. All we really discussed were colors and flowers. We have somewhat of an idea for the ceremony but nothing concrete yet.” He explained, flopping back onto the bed.
“So not even attire?” Abrose shook his head. “The only thing is no white. Malachi’s request.” He muttered, covering his eyes with his arm tiredly. “We can work with that.” She grinned and strode to her closet. Abrose peeked up, quirking an eyebrow in intrigue. “You have something in mind?” He asked, watching his sister from his place of her bed. “No, but if the prince doesn’t want want, then why not go the complete oposite of the spectrum? You handle the rest of the preparations with your fiancé Leave the clothes to me and Chire.”
Abrose couldn’t help but huff a laugh. “And Chire?” He repeated in disbelief. He couldn’t help but smile at the thought of his sibling helping him out find his wedding attire, even if they were still uneasy about the marriage. He stood and rapped Lilly in a hug. “Thank you sis. This can’t be easy for either of you, so thank you.”

Sunlight ran through the window in the bed chambers. As predicted, the weather for the wedding day is perfect. Winter had melted away as swiftly as it arrived. Days had run on soon enough while planning and policies were underway. It was busier as ever in the royal palace, but despite everyone running around the halls, someone was still not awake.

Yes, it was His Majesty, the groom nonetheless. Malachi was up very late into the night due to his nerves being shot about the following morning. He paced around his room while biting at his thumb. Never had his heart been pumping so quickly since that fateful night almost eleven years ago now. Somehow he had manage to fall asleep, though only after his worrying attack had faltered.

He was greeted by servants who knocked at the door then practically barged in, ready to get him dressed for the ceremony. The sudden jolt caused him to finally wake despite him still on the verge of sleeping as he was dressed and his hair was fixed.

Before making his way to the church, he stopped by the one hallway with his mother's painting hung on the wall. Even in his red military uniform, he got on his knees and said a few prayers before going on his way.

As tradition, the groom had to be there first and to wait. It was only him and Field Marshal Sir Eszes. Royal weddings have the second highest official in the military be the officiate since Atrovia does not have a dominant religion.

People were already there to watch the ceremony play out. Members from his mother's side of the family were there along with ambassadors, Edwin, General Maeda, other nobles, and such sat as they waited. Malachi, on the other hand, was taking deep breaths. Even with his usual stern face he had to admit, he was terribly anxious.

Abrose had been up with the sun, getting the brief pleasure of seeing his first sunrise since he had been in Atrovia. Ever since arriving nearly three weeks ago, Abrose had barely caught the sunrise only a handful of times. It was only this morning, the morning of his wedding he had gotten the chance to see a full, fiery blooming of the sun. Now, the morning of his wedding, Abrose stood in front of his room’s glass paned window, staring out at the gardens and landscape of the castle grounds, picking at the golden embroidery at his sleeve, lost in thought. Lilly had convinced him to wear an all black outfit for the wedding. After finding out of the King’s death, they had managed to find a fabric shop that sold a similar gold fabric to his pre-exsisting details. With the help of the maids and Lilly, they had taken the gold embroidery lace from the fabric and had sort of patchwork it onto the crushed black velvet of Abrose’ suit.
“Rose, for the last time please, stop fidgeting with your sleeve and come eat breakfast.” Lilly pleaded, patting the spot beside her at the dining room table her and Abrose’ joined rooms shared. “You’re going to fray the edges.” She scolded through a soft smile. “Nervous?” She asked, taking a spoonful of cinnamon oats with berries.
Abrose glared playfully as he took a few pastries and tea. “Of course I’m nervous. I’m marrying Malachi.” He sucked in a breath. Since getting to the castle, Abrose had learned of the king’s death, much to his horror, right after he had left a few months beforehand. He had tried to talk with Malachi and even his own council to push the wedding back to allow for a longer mourning time but he was assured many time by both parties that the wedding would be a much needed time to celebrate. Even with the reassurance, Abrose had decided to take his own time to mourn the loss of the kingdom, feeling it only appropriate.
“I’m excited though, to start a life with him.” Abrose chimed in, giving an encouraging smile. “To properly get to know him further than just the king of Atrovia.”
~skip~
Lilly gently looped her arm through Abrose’s and gently patted his hand. “Chire sent in a letter this morning when you were getting ready. He says he’s proud, that mom’s crying happy tears, and that dad will always be by your side.” She whispered as she adjusted the orangey pink flower at his lapel and wipe away a few tears from his cheeks. All he could manage to do was smile softly and nod. Lilly, wiped a few tears from her eyes and took a deep breath. “Now, lets get you married and me out of this insufferable skirt.” She nudged Abrose forwards and nodded to the guards by the door as a romantic violin started inside the throne room.

As he stood there, his mind began to go through the schedule of the day. Wedding ceremony, a small thirty minute break, carriage ride around the capital, another break, feast, dance…. Somehow his mind was convinced that thinking of schedules would be a reliving thing to do.

If only the strain in his shoulders and the uneasiness in his heart had gone away. It was like building up a palace except, it was a very unstable one that would topple the moment the last stone is set in place.

Malachi is fine. He is the most calm he has been in years. His ever so beating heart is just thumping out of excitement. Yes, that is what it is. Biting the inside of his lip, he fought off the urge to glance down at his feet even for a second. He can never show a sign of weakness, especially just mere moments before the wedding ceremony.

One more time did he look over at some of the people. It appeared that Edwin was fighting off the urge to hold a thumbs up to maintain a professional manner as ambassador. Then Maeda who was giving a proud smile and an encouraging nod. Guards dressed like nobles were hidden among the people, but they offer their respective glances and nods.

The sounds of the door handles going down rang through. A small creak from the doors opening could be heard following with the mellifluous songs of violins. Even in a matter of seconds he knew that it was time. Malachi gazed across as an incredibly soft smile appeared on his face.

It was by a sheer miracle that Abrose managed to stay upright. A miracle and his sister at his side. He took a few moments as they strode towards the dais to slowly gaze around the room, nearly gaping in awe. To his word, Malachi had indeed kept his promise about not having white at the wedding. Despite the lack of it, the room still looked stunning. It appeared as if autumn had landed right in the room. The gorgeous reds and oranges intertwined with golds and rich purples gave warmth to the room Abrose would compare it to being right outside. It all felt like a beautiful dream.
His gaze swept over the benches here he saw a fe familiar faces among the relatively small crowd. He recognized many of
the Atrovian council, having gotten the chance to properly speak with them as he slowly adjusted to life in Atrovia. While Abrose felt that he was no where near to understanding everything, the advice from the council and people at the castle gave Abrose some encouragement to continue studying, even if it was going slowly. He gave a small smile and wave to the few Carnie Council Members that had managed to arrive as well, glad that at least someone other than Lilly and Chire
supported his decision.
He flicked his gaze to the far end of the bench as he caught Haruian Princess Naomi standing with
the rest of the crowd, smiling and quietly clapping. She looked stunning, dressed in a deep wine red dress that fell in waves
of light, airy fabric to her feet. Abrose smiled back before finally resting his gaze on his fiancé.
He couldn't help but wonder if the smile he saw on Malachi's handsome features was merely. Formality for the occasion or
truly genuine. He still had trouble discerning the King's expressions, whether they were truly there or just a mask he used to hide what was truly going on. He only recently realized just how skilled Malachi was at keeping things under control, having only seen a true smile whenever they were around the general or other closer members of the royal court. Abrose could only hope to see more of those easy smiles, now that they were going to be together. Despite his doubts, Abrose couldn't help but ease his mind a little and smile back. Now was not a time to worry about that. They'd have time to grow trust and understanding between them. Now was a new beginning, one Abrose was eager to make, both for his kingdom, and himself. Lilly and he bowed deeply when they reached the dais. When they straightened, Abrose turned to Lilly and gave her a tight gently wiping her cheek of tears before letting her go and climbing the dais himself. He gave another bow as he came to stand beside Malachi and took a deep breath, nodding his head in reassurance to his King. He was ready.

Deep down, Malachi was not sure how he truly felt in that exact moment. The smile on his face was genuine, though it did not fully reveal how he felt joy currently. His Adam's apple bobbed as he felt his eyes becoming watery. He knew his hands were beginning to shake. Despite whatever jitters tried to slither in and take over, he took a deep breath as his eyes watched Abrose walk down the aisle.

Abrose, the prince who will be his husband and his king consort in a matter of fifteen minutes from now. The reality of it still had not hit him. In a way, he experienced odd feelings about the realization. Although, as his soon to be husband had walked up onto the dias, he knew it. He knew that this was happening for real. This is not a dream, but a reality. A reality that will affect generations long after them.

Shivers ran down his spine as he bowed back at Abrose. Since he is the king now, he could only give a mere thirty degree angle bow. Looking over at Field Marshal Eszes, he gave a nod as a signal to begin.

The man held a navy blue book that has been used for royal wedding ceremonies ever since Atrovia had been founded. It contained passages that helped the officiate conduct the ceremony. Eszes smiled then began to recite by heart, rarely looking down at the book resting between his hands.

As per tradition, another high ranking official had stepped up holding a crimson pillow that held two flower crowns made out of an arrange of flowers native to both Atrovia and Carniel. They were connected by a red ribbon. Malachi turned to face Abrose then gently picked up the one and placed it on top of his fiancé's head.

Abrose only broke his gaze from Malachi once to smile and bow his head to the Field Marshal in appreciation. How many time had he done this exact same thing, with both of Malachi’s siblings and how many times had it gone so terribly wrong? Was he expecting the same to happen with the newly appointed king? Abrose sucked in a silent breath and immediately erased the thought from his mind. Malachi would live. As would Abrose. They would be married and live what he hoped to be a long and happy life together, honoring both the family they had lost and the new ones they still yet to meet. Abrose smiled as he started to recite his own vows, not really caring for formalities in what he said, only hoping that he could live up to his words.
“I Abrose Nightingale of Carniel hope, with ever fiber in my being, to be a husband, and king consort the kingdom and you, my King, can be proud of and can love without condition, no matter the time it may take for that to happen.” He concluded, gently squeezing Malachi’s hands. He caught movement from the corner of his eye, seeing Lily giving him a smug smile. He shook his head slightly, already feeling heat rise to his neck and cheeks. Never in a millennia would he had ever imagined to say such heartfelt words to anyone, let alone the King of Atrovia. Despite his slight embarrassment, he felt knew he meant ever word he had said to Malachi. He genuinely did want to help Atrovia, despite what little he thought he could offer, and he did want to make Malachi happy. He dipped into a slight curtsy as the crown of flowers was placed on his head before straightening and gently taking the remains crown and placing it atop Malachi’s head, needing to stretch up on his toes to reach.

No matter what he could do, his mind was in several places at once. Worry filmed his heart. The sounds of it beating filled his ear drums. Sweat formed underneath his gloves. His breathing had to be forced in order for it slow down. He is getting married right now to Abrose. He is getting married right now.

Malachi slowly exhaled as he looked back at Abrose. It was shameful how he wished to disappear in that moment, a moment he has been waiting for ever since he could remember. His almost husband's words filled his ears. They competed with the words of his worries; soon winning, even for a moment. How could anyone say such things to him? The small hand squeeze surprised him even more.

It was his turn to say his vows. "I, Malachi Darce Leeros King of Atrovia, will promise to be your husband, to be there for you through thick and thin. I promise to keep the relationship between our countries as strong as ours, making Atrovia and Carniel some of the most powerful and noble in the world. I will do everything in my power to look after you, our families, and our future together till my inevitable end."

A little weight lifted off of his chest as he finished. He worried if most of it didn't have sincerity, but he knewnthat his last line was full to brim of it. Actually, he wrote it perhaps a month after they were engaged but only adjusted it a weeks before.

Biting down on the inside of his lip, he fought off the urge to chuckle seeing Abrose getting on his toes to reach. Malachi stepped forward, bowing his head at a slight angle. Once the crown had settled, he straightened himself. At least the ribbon is long enough to accommodate their height difference. A small light blue satin pillow with two wedding bands was given to the field marshal.

“Thank you,” Abrose whispered softly with a smile as he set the crown of flowers on Malachi’s head. Despite them having only met nearly a year ago, and Abrose still unsure of what the future held for them as well as their kingdoms, he felt he could wholeheartedly trust in Malachi’s words. Carniel could be taken care of under their shared rule.

He inched back a bit to give them both space but still kept holding onto Malachi’s hand. Abrose wasn’t entirely sure whether it was because he felt it was the correct thing to do at the wedding or if it was for his own reassurance and stability. He most likely would have fainted by now, especially after the vows. Taking a deep breath, he looked up at Malachi for a quick moment, having recently found him as a reassuring person, rather than one to be intimidated by like the first few times they had met.

He flicked his gaze over to person who brought over the rings. They were simple gold bands, engraved with designs and a few gems that sat neatly across the ring. He nodded his head to the ring bearer and picked up the larger of the to rings. He turned to Malachi and waited as the Field marshal read the cues.

The soft thank you caught him off guard. His eyes took a glimpse up at Abrose as the flower crown was placed on his head. Why thank you? What for? It left him confused, but touched; just the same as his almost husband still held his hand. Malachi did not mind it at all for even his arm and hand were relaxed at the touch.

As expected, the field marshal went on with the ring exchange. "Now, Your Highness, please repeat after me," the field marshal said, "I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness. As I place it on your finger, I commit my heart and soul to you. I ask you to wear this ring as a reminder of the vows we have spoken today, our wedding day."

Presumably after the wedding ring was slid onto his finger, the field marshal repeated the same except the older man had addressed it to him, calling him Your Majesty. Quietly exhaling, he took the ring from the pillow and held Abrose's hand. He repeated, "I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and faithfulness. As I place it on your finger, I commit my heart and soul to you. I ask you wear this ring as a reminder of the vows we have spoken today, our wedding day."

A chill ran down his spine. A weight pressed against his chest. In all honesty, he might fall because his legs feel a bit wobbly. He could feel his shoulders tensing up as he turned to face Abrose. Just below his vision, he saw the ring on his finger; a smile rested on his face for a few moments.

The field marshal closed the book, holding it out in front of him. A gleam swept across the older man's face. "Now with the power vested in me, I now pronounce you as lawfully wedded husbands. You may kiss the groom."

Abrose took a moment to gather his thought. He straightened slightly and maintained eye contact with Malachi as the field marshal recited the small speech. “I, Prince Abrose Nightingale of Carniel, give you this ring,” he turned the wedding band in his palm, letting it’s weight settle before he lifted Malachi’s hand. “As a symbol of my love and faithfulness. As I place it on your finger,” He paused to slip the ring onto Malachi’s ring finger. “I commit my heart and soul to you and to this kingdom.” He quickly glanced at the field marshal to make sure his slight addition was alright before continuing. “I ask you to wear this ring as a reminder of the vows e have spoken today, our wedding day.”

He watched Malachi as he repeated the vow and slid the smaller ring on his finger, the weight of it significantly noticeable. The ring felt foreign to Abrose. He had worn rings before but the fact that this was something so much more than a decorative ring weighed on Abrose’s consciousness. This was there vows, their promises, their love, and loyalty. For as long as Abrose wore that ring, he’d be forever bound by the words he had spoken today, bound to Malachi just as he was to Abrose. He sucked in a slow breath as a soft smile settle on his lips. Despite the promises and the feeling of being more than just himself, Abrose felt happy, truly happy, to have Malachi beside him. To now be able to call him his husband.

An immediate blush rose to Abrose’s cheek as the Field marshal finished the ceremony, now announcing that they were married and could kiss. He hadn’t even considered that until now. Even in the weeks prior to the wedding, whenever Abrose was with his majesty, he had not seen any outward desire from Malachi to show affection, other than a brush of a hand or a faint smile. And Abrose had had no intentions of pushing that line they had seemed to silently drawn between them. He was content with not showing outward affection, after all, he didn’t know Malachi in such an intimate way. To them now share their first kiss here felt as if they’d be breaking all the boundaries they had set with each other. His gaze flicked from Malachi’s to the field marshals then to the crowd, no doubt holding their applause until they kissed. They most likely assumed both were shy. Or at least that’s what Abrose hoped they’d mistake his panic for. He looked back up at Malachi, only now realizing he had tightened his hold on his hands. He loosened them quickly before leaning in and mouthing “cheek?” While he knew it was unconventional, Abrose still held high value in honoring those boundaries until they were both more comfortable with each other.

The ring felt strange on his finger at first. Malachi felt the vein underneath it pulsing. His eyes widened as they shimmered for a second. This is it. He is a married man now, a married king. He has a husband whom he will stay at his side for the rest of their lives. Something about those facts just make him full of excitement. After years of seeking for someone in hopes of marriage, he has finally done it. They have finally done it.

But wait…they still have to kiss. Looking over from the field marshal, his eyes gazed over at Abrose. Whether it was the sight of his husband's blush or not, he felt his cheeks becoming warm too. The air was getting to be hot as well despite it being spring.

He thought he would have some time to spare to talk about whether or not to kiss, but he had been blown with episodes of panic up until this morning. A real full blown kiss would be strange given they are not intimately close to each other. Besides, he is not sure how Abrose would feel about kissing, especially in front of a copious amount of people. If only he was not hiding himself in his chambers panicking, then they would have been able to talk about this. Regardless, he was really only concerned for his now husband. Whatever anyone else thought, well, they are just simply foolish.

Malachi softly grinned. Stepping forward, he removed both of his gloves, and placed them under his left arm. He cupped Abrose's face, then turned his head slightly. "My husband," He whispered, before kissing his cheek.

Abrose gazed up at Malachi for what seemed to be an eternity. Had he said something wrong? Was Malachi not even comfortable with a kiss on the cheek? Abrose truly couldn’t tell as his husband’s gaze swept the room then landed on him. He was nearly tempted to tel the field marshal to conclude the wedding, hoping he’d understand they weren’t comfortable showing affection, until Malachi moved. Moreover, he was smiling at Abrose. It was rare that Abrose saw a smile from Malachi, due to what Abrose assumed to be grief from his father’s passing but his heart swelled every time he caught a glimpse of Malachi’s lips twitching upward in amusement or when one of the generals managed to make him laugh.
He let out a breathy sigh, both of surprise from the gentle touch and out of relief. He leaned into Malachi’s hand,,eyes fluttering shut when Malachi’s lips made contact with Abrose’s skin. It sent an unexpected warm, tingling feeling through out his body, something akin to being wrapped in a cozy blanket.
He managed not to lean completely into Malachi’s form despite his innate desire to do so in the moment. Instead, he flicked his gaze up to meet Malachi’s and gave a soft smile. “My king, my husband, and my love.” He replied as well as confirmed. They were now bound to each other, in the eyes of the kingdom as well as through heart and soul. He tilted his head and brushed a gentle kiss to Malachi’s cheek before he was able to pull away to his full height. They were married now. They were Husbands. All the anticipation and anxiety over whether if Abrose was ready for any of this, being married and ruling a kingdom alongside someone else still plagued his mind but it was slowly becoming a bit more manageable day by day, especial;;y now that he was married.

His bones turned into water as he took a step back. Almost losing his balance, he took a deep breath as he regained his normal posture. Thankfully the silence within the chapel had disappeared thanks to everyone witnessing the wedding ceremony was clapping and cheering. Even the field marshal was proudly clapping. Malachi discreetly took a deep breath as he slipped his gloves back on. For a second, he glimpsed up at the one window where the sunlight was coming in. He hoped his family in the heavens were watching down on them. He hoped for their blessing and guidance in this unfamiliar journey he will be embarking on for the rest of his life.

A bundle of emotions fell on top of him yet he stood still. The cheek in which Abrose had kissed was full of heat; it even had spread to the other and the back of his neck. He shook his head. There is so much for him to do, he does not have time to assess it all. Speaking of which, the ceremony is over now. They can go now and relax in the sitting room in the east part of the palace now. Malachi took a hold of Abrose's hand then began to run down the isle. He did not care if it was custom to politely walk down or not; if he recalled correctly, his mother and father didn't do the same as well.

Now, thank the gods, his bones were normal again. As he dashed down the hallways and around corners with his husband, he felt fine for the most part. Eventually he had slowed his pace once he knew that they were getting close to the sitting room. He actually stopped for a moment to catch his breath. "Oh great heavens," He panted. With his hand on his knee, he took deep breaths then glimpsed over at Abrose. "Are you alright? Sorry, I just felt the need to run after that. There should be some refreshments and snacks waiting for us."

Abrose breathed a laugh in disbelief, as he straightened and looked around at the now clapping crowd. He sought out his sister among the onlooker, surprised to find her crying, though a happy smile rested on her lovely features. He pressed a hand to his heart, nodding his head to her in appreciation. He couldn’t be more thankful towards both his siblings and his mother, despite having their reservations about the marriage and about Malachi, they still had supported him.
He was surprised when he felt wetness against his cheek and gave another laugh when he wiped away tears of his own. He let the rush of emotions, both happiness and nervousness for their future wash over him all at onceHis attention was suddenly pulled away from the crowd when, in one moment, Malachi grabbed his hand and suddenly pulled him into a run down the isle. He barely had time to protest as he willed his shaky legs to move or risk falling down the dais. He was practically clutching onto Malachi for balanced as they raced past the crowd, Abrose managing to catch a worried glance from Lily and then from Naomi as they passed before he was pulled around the corner and down a bit of a corridor. Once they finally stopped, Abrose nearly collapsed against the hallway wall as he regained his breath and his thoughts. He raised a hand and shook his head “I’m alright.” He reassured, panting slightly. “Is suddenly running from the ceremony room normal?” He asked with a laugh, heaving in a breath before offering a smile.

He had nothing to say for himself. All he could do was laugh as he collapsed onto the floor. The memories of Edwin covering his mouth with amusement and some of his family from Maehwa were on the verge of laughter. Confusion from Maeda and everyone else was just as funny as the rest. He's pretty sure that Yuta was unsure whether or not to follow. Oh well, who cares? Malachi is the one who's king here. Running down the aisle with Abrose is probably going to be one of the least harmful things he will do during his reign. It's not like anyone will take offense to it. Heavens, he might have started a new tradition anyhow.

A great heave rose from his chest. All laughter came to a sudden halt. Quickly, he stood up then adjusted his uniform. Malachi glanced around then shrugged. "I say it is. Who's to say it isn't?" He asked. "I rule this kingdom, so I say it is. I rather run down to the ends of the earth than stand up there for a moment longer. There could have been someone there to kill me."

Strolling over to the sitting room, he wrapped his fingers around the handle. "It will be a busy day. We will not get to rest until the honeymoon. There is nothing wrong with running unless you're effort is wasted at the destination, Abrose."

Abrose’s smile faltered for a moment at Malachi’s sudden change in tone. How could he have gone from laughing so openly and joyously to so stoic. Abrose straightened and adjusted his black blouse. “R-right, of course.” He glanced away and bit his lip. “Was it really that bad though?” He ventured, hating ho his voice sounded so desperate. “I understand your - hesitance to stay up there, considering what had happen to your family but…it couldn’t have been so bad.” He looked away, unable to hold Malachi’s heavy gaze for much longer. All that ran through his head was their deaths at an alter. Perhaps Malachi had been right to run. To defy what his sibling’s fate had been. TO be the one to live instead. And if running meant living, then Abrose saw no fault in the action. Though he couldn’t help but feel that the marriage part also had some role to play in Malachi’s avoidance of further festivities. “I wonder what happens when you can’t run anymore.” He mumbled, following Malachi through the doors after a few minutes he used to compose himself. “And this honey moon is where?” He asked, determined not to let his doubts ruin the night. “Hopefully I won’t completely collapse and asleep before I get the chance to enjoy the scenery.”

In the moment he realized his usual demeanor returned in that moment, he frowned at himself. Of course he had always been conflicted by it, but now it bothers him. Some have been calling him "Malachi the Mad" because of it; he just hoped that Abrose wouldn't play along with it too.

Again, he shrugged in response. "I suppose not, but I do not see the use of dwelling on it really. We are married now and that's that," He sighed. His shoulders tensed at Abrose's words. Malachi squinted at his husband as if searching for meaning behind them.

He shook his head then walked inside. Once Abrose was in too, he closed the door. Collapsing onto a chair, he let out a sigh. For once, he felt somewhat relaxed after going through so many worries.

"At the Jasur villa by the west coast," He replied. It is a very lovely vacation home, and it was certainly a favorite of his mother's. He has only been there five times since he prefers to be at the palace where all the work is done. "No need to worry. We will be going in the late morning tomorrow, and thanks to the weather, we should be there by late evening or early morning."