forum Love? You think this is out of love?

Started February 19, 2021 by @Fenrir

tune

"You have a younger brother, no?" Abrose asked, looking up as the sky exploded in an array of oranges and yellow, bathing everything warm gold's and coppers, including Abrose and Nao.

Nao nodded "I do. His name is Amir. The light of my life. She said softly, leading Abrose to the stables. In the early hours of the morning only a few of the servants were milling about, feeding the horses and cleaning the stalls. At the sight of the prince and princess, thay left a few horses for them to attend to. Nao pulled off her cloak and grabbed a brush and pitchfork, motioning for Abrise to do the same.
"The young prince, while I adore him, is a pain. Though he'll mature." Nao smiled sadly and shook her head as if to clear a memory.
Abrose chuckled as ge let the beadt of a horse smell his hand before petting its velvet muzzle and beginning to brush out its hay filled coat. “Siblings are usually anything but pleasent. Gods know im definatly a devil with my siblings.” He glanced up at the princess. “He has a good teacher. He'll do wonderfully."
Nao snorted a laugh "that or raise hell."
Abrose shrugged with a smirk "as the old saying goes, 'those who cannot move heaven shall raise hell.'"

Malachi waited once again for them to leave. It did frustrate him just a little that things changed so swiftly yesterday and now he was wasting his own time along with his old friend's. But what can he do about it? He doesn't want to cause much of a stir with his fiancé; his whole plan of uprooting all of the corrupt and spies who have spread their weeds here is to protect them and their future family. There isn't going to be a problem and there shouldn't be at all.

But oh something tells him that there will be. He already has frightened poor Abrose already and practically laughed at him just a few hours after proposing. Thinking back to last night made him question a lot of things. For instance, he has no idea why Fate has let him continue on or why it has let him live. The prince is aware that he is terrible, but how can he move on from it all?

About ten minutes later, he got up and left the room. He hated spending any more time alone in there. And while usually someone would be walking with him, he didn't mind being by himself for once. Chances are he won't ever have a moment like this ever again for a long time.

Just as he was outside of the study, he spot General Maeda standing at the door. His eyes laid on the envelopes in the old man's hand. Though with a light smile, he strolled over. "Maeda, good morning. I thought you would enjoy sleeping in a little later than usual. No?"

The old general shook his head as he chuckled. "After looking after you for the last eighteen years, I cannot even sleep in for a second," He said, before handing over the three envelopes. "Ambassador Moon has to deal with business involving matters back in Hascestein so he won't be attending lunch. Ambassador Namgoong, Isaev, and Barta have all asked to postpone the meeting till next week due to the icy roads. And Councilman Farkas of the Alesar providence would like to meet with you after lunch to talk about peacetalks with the Dumitrescus at the north border."

Malachi gazed down at the envelopes, nodding along to the general's words. "Is that all for today?" He asked, glancing up. He watched as Maeda nodded. "Abrose is with Emerald again, but he should be back a few minutes before breakfast I'm assuming. Let's get some work done beforehand."

Nao nodded with a laugh and found a lead for the horses. "That is very true. Very true indeed." She chuckled lightly and nudged the horse into a forward walk. "Come, these must eat before anyone can use them."
Abrose nodded and found a lead for his mare, gently slipping it over her head and tightening the reigns for her comfort and his safety. "Speaking of eating, I should be heading back soon. I promised His Highness a breakfast before I leave for Carniel." He said, walking the mare out to the pasture.
Nao nodded "then we should get you changed before your meeting. We wouldn't want you smelling like a horse."
Abrose shook his head "Nao you don't have to do that. It shouldn't matter what I look like."
Nao shrugged "maybe not but I'd pay a hefty price just to see the prince at a kiss for words over you. But if you really don't want the extra fashion advise them at least bath before seeing him."
Abrose chuckled and turned slightly away to conceal his blush. If he were being honest, he'd agree with Nao. It would've nice for once to not be at a kiss for words around the prince of Atrovia. It was by sheer miracle and possibly one tooany drinks that he managed to speak so we'll yesterday evening.
"Alright, I'll let you dress me but only today and because if rather enjoy the breakfast not smelling of horses."

Sitting behind his desk, he took out the pile of envelopes that he had from the evening before. He could still feel his hand cramp as he looked down at them. When Maeda had stepped forward to retrieve them, Malachi held out his hand then shook his head. The general took a step back before sitting in one of the chairs by the table.

"So, what did you think about last night, my prince?" Maeda asked. The general gazed over at the prince who was looking down at the floor. He could tell the younger one was tired, but still was pushing forward as always. And yet, he could never exactly tell what's on his Highness's mind.

Though he was taught to never do it, Malachi gave a shrug. It pained him to be uncertain about things yet he knew he wouldn't always know everything in every situation. "I do have some hope that it will turn out to be fine, but I am very skeptical still. I am worried," He responded, following with a sigh. "Please promise me you won't tell anyone."

His eyes flickered up watching as Maeda nodded and giving him a small hopeful smile. He continued on as he stood up, "All I can say is that it better turn out the way that my father is wishing for. I can only assume what he is imagining, but I hope it becomes reality before his condition gets worse."

Picking up the letters, he sat it down on the table in front of Maeda. He patted the general on the shoulder. "Please have these sent by Antony and Louis. You should relax a little." Malachi wrapped his fingers around the door handle and pushed forward.

"You too, your Highness."

After making sure the horses were alright in the pasture and helping clean up the stables, Abrose walked back to the castle with the princess. Instead of going to his provided room to change like he had assumed they'd do, Nao pulled him towards the north wing.
"Are you sure I'm supposed to be here this early? Someone could get the wrong impression. What if it gets back to Malachi? He won't be happy about the rumors." Abrose whispered worriedly.
Nao rolled her eyes and shook her head, "no ones going to assume anything. And if Prince Malachi has an issue with his fiance having me as a friend then he can speak directly to me." She said, opening the doors to her chamber and nudging Abrose to the bathroom. From the little that he had managed to see in the room, Nao seemed to be quite the explorer, trinkets and maps scattered a table while most of her open closet was filled with cloaks and riding gear, save for the corner dedicated to Jewel colored dresses, including the green one from last night.
"So how did you figure it out? That me and Malachi were engaged?" He called from the bathroom. He started a warm bath to soak in she he waited, finishing a few minutes later and feeling much better.
"Quite easy actually. Why else would the Prince of Atrovia hold a ball and only invite one prince? Besides, all your interactions looked as if you were forced to get along for some sake or another." She replied, cracking upen then door just enough to hand over a flowy black tunic and deep red pants. "Try these."
He nodded and waited for the door to close before dressing. "Was it that obvious?" He asked, feeling a light blush rise to his cheeks. He adjusted the tunic a bit before stepping out.
Nao nodded with a smile "believe me, it was obvious tie veryome save for the two of you." She said, gesturing for him to turn around. "Let's see if this works." He muttered, wrapping a belt style corset around Abrose's waist and lacing up the back.
"Here I thought he was a man of mystery." He laughed softly and looked at himself in the mirror, smiling at the results. "Thank you for letting me use these. They're beautiful." He murmured, combing through his hair with his fingers. Nao swatted his hands away to style Abrose's hair herself. "You're welcome. You can keep them as well." She said, stepping once satisfied with his hair. "Now off you go for breakfast." She said, calling for a servant to escort Abrose.

Smol boop

(Thanks! Sorry for the late response)

As always, Malachi was fifteen minutes early to breakfast. Usually one of the men from his court would go fetch him, but there were times, like now, where he was keen on the time and went by himself. Well, sort of. One of the guards followed him as procedure.

Gradually, his steps slowed down from his usual pace. Everything was alright, at least as of now. With his arms behind his back, he looked up and gazed around as he walked. He wanted to keep his pace at an appropriate speed so he wouldn't end up having to overdo himself.

While approaching the doors to the dining hall, two servants at each door took a handle then opened them. Stopping right before the entrance, he passed for a moment. A sigh had left his lips as he pushed away a few strands. Looking at the two servants, he gave them each a respective nod and thanked them before walking in.

Malachi tilted his head up, gazing around as he ambled. Although he has been in this room several times, he loved looking around. It was always something had done when he was younger and had nothing to do. The details in the architecture were awestrucking even though the place was designed and built around the time his father was born. And Sohan always took him there to play games like tag or hide and seek.

In the middle of the room, there was a long ivory table with chairs. The slightly larger one at the end is his father's, although he has been sitting it for a while now. Malachi strolled over and sat down. When hearing the footsteps of one of the servers, he held his hand up. "Let's wait a few more minutes, Hugo," He said. "I am expecting that Prince Abrose is on his way right now. We are not in any rush."

(it's ok!)
Abrose strode down the halls along with the servant girl, barely any older than himself. He had tried to start up a conversation to calm his nerves with her but all responses she gave were short or vague then immediatly fell to silence. Taking this as a sign to shit up and enjoy the morning while he could, Abrose took to gazing around at the unfamiliar hallways they passed through. Until they got to a pair of ornate doors, more servants standing on either side.

He bowed and thanked the servant girl for guiding him and slowly took a step towards the doors. Slight panic struck him as he beheld the beautiful room. The room was completely empty save for the prince at the head of the table and whom Abrose assumed to be the chef. Back home, ever since the castl had allowed it's subjects to use the castle as shelter, he had never been to a quit dinner. Carniel's dinning room had always been filled with laughter, loud chatter and the clinking of plates. While not always the thing he had wanted to wake up to every morning, by the time Abrose had pulled himself out of bed and gone down to eat, he was always eager to eat and talk among his people. To know that they were happy and well fed and safe.

He hadn't realized how much he missed those rowdy mornings and evenings until he thanked the servants at the door and took a step into the seemingly vacant room, the only sounds here was the echo if his voice and the occassionally russtle of fabric. He took a deep breath, focussing on the decide of the room and the layout of the the table before making his way to the head of the table to greet Malachi, his footfalls all to loud in the space.

He bowed low and kept his gaze towarss the ground as he greeted Malachi. "Thank out for inviting me to breakfast, your highness." He straightened and offered a smile. "Forgive if I'm late, I was summoned to care for the horses in the stables earlier this morning and may have lost track of time." He laughed softly before shaking his head and bowing again. "But that's no excuse for making you wait. I hope it wasn't long." He took a seat after straightening once more, a few chairs away from Malaxhi since he assumed those closest to him were reserved for the late Queen and Malachi's siimgs at every given time, despite their presence. He took another moment to gaze around the room, able to focus more now that he was seated. "You truly do have a beautiful home. I can't even begin to imagine the dinner parties and events you have in here. They must be spectacular." He mused softly, trying to keep his voice from echoing so much.

The silence did not really bother him. You could practically hear a musket go off in the other side of the castle from here. On the other hand, he secretly wished that the room was filled with some vibrancy. He did not want to spend more time having meals by himself, even though he usually invited Maeda and officials or his niece and nephew. It would be nice to have family here.

Malachi let out a heavy sigh as he relaxed back in the seat. His face was drawn from any sign of emotion. It simply remained bleak, as usual. And yet, there were little rings under his lackluster eyes. The cold weather and dark skies outside did not really help much with anything at all.

When hearing footsteps outside, he immediately sat up. Waving his hand, he motioned for the servers to get ready right away. "Oh Mother, please help me get through this," He mumbled to himself. "Please…."

Hearing the doors creak open, he returned to his regular position. His eyes were glued to Prince Abrose, watching the other prince's movements. He shook his head, "No need to apologize at all, Abrose. You were only a few minutes late, that is perfectly fine with me."

Slowly he nodded, gazing up to look around the room again. "It is quite a room…." He said. Glancing back at Abrose, he laughed a little. "Speak at a comfortable volume, you do not have to watch it. Although, speaking from experience, I ask that you do not shout. It is not fun afterwards when your ears are ringing."

Abrose laughed and nodded, a light blush along his cheeks and nose. "If I'm being completely honest, I don't really know what to do at any of these functions." He shook his head with a sigh. "Even at these breakfasts and dinners, I fumble on manners or appropriate topics to speak about. Shore's usually the one to engage in all that, not willingly but he does it anyways." He sagged in his chair out of relief and tilted his head to look directly at the ceiling, surprised to find that even that was highly decorated with paintings of various scenes.

He sat up straighter and focused on Malachi, taking in his tired yet somehow still regal look. Abrose couldn't image he himself looked great. "Was there a reason why you wanted to have breakfast?" He asked, tilting his head curiously as a server came by with their breakfast. He nod3d his thanks and dug in, nearly groaning at how delicious the food was. "It's absolutely alright if there wasn't. I don't mind enjoying the morning with you." He added on quickly, dabbing at his lips with a napkin. "I'll be heading back to Carniel soon now that it's daylight. I wonder how my sister and brother will take the proposal." He mused with a laugh "I hope we'll, it would truly be sad if my siblings didn't get along with my husband-to-be."

Slowly, he nodded along to what the prince was saying. Though he was a bit confused, he did not really think much of it. In a way, he was in a similar position, though he eventually had to learn. "Well, I suppose that somebody has to do the entertaining and carrying discussions now, yes?" He wondered, looking up at Abrose. "You know, as my spouse and the future king consort, that is your duty. Attending to arranging and planning parties. Holding discussions at dinners. Serving as an advisor to me. You should know how to handle it all soon."

Malachi returned to focusing on his food. As the other spoke, he quietly ate. His gaze lingered, but it always landed back on his soon-to-be spouse. Gently placing dosn his eating utensil, he rested his chin on top of his hands. He shook his head in response.

"No reason in particular. Breakfast is very important and couples eat every meal together, so we should make this a habit," He said. Afterwards, he followed his words with a simple shrug. His eyes lingered back down to the food and he went back to eating while listening to Abrose.

Holding his napkin up to his mouth, he started to laugh. His shoulders lightly bounced as a few chuckles managed to leave from his throat. It took him awhile to regain composure. Throwing the napkin onto the plate he responded, "Why should they? It is beneficial for them too, if they aren't aware of it. Now if they have any problems with me or our marriage, they are gladly invited to come over and talk with me."

"I hope they'll see it that way." He replied softly, shaking his head and laughing. "My dear prince, you know my brother is not one for using pretty words when discussing something as personal as the marriage. My sister my may fair better but I doubt even she won't be too pleased you didn't consult them before asking for my hand." He sighed and munched on a roll of bread.
"But whatever they may say or think of you and the arrangement, I don't plan on backing out." He glanced up at Malachi. "May I ask why you agreed to the treaty? Surely you can't be getting much out of Carniel. At least nothing more than what you could get from one of the closer kingdoms. And Atrovia seems to be doing very well on its own. Surely there are more kingdoms out there that you could benefit from marrying to than us." He drummed his fingers in the table, glancing around the empty rooms. After marrying Malachi, Abrose hoped he could bring something to kingdom, and if not more prosperity then at least joy to the kingdom, fill each room with the warmth of the kingdom's people, warmth Abrose knew was hidden in this cold place.

Malachi could only just nod as the prince spoke. Although he was not sure what Abrose's siblings would say about the marriage, he is sure that he will be getting a rather lengthy letter along with an ear full from the two. And if the two were to meet him, he can only guess that it will be like the other meetings he has had with them, specifically that brother.

His lips curled back as he thought about what Atrovia would really get out of this union. Definitely a secured ally, along with solid evidence to prove to enemies that they are a kind and gentle country. Besides, he is sure that there is something to gain in it all in the end anyhow. If his parents' marriage has proved anything, it's that there is more reward as time goes on.

A soft chuckle left his lips as he heard the prince's question. "I did not approve of the treaty, His Majesty did," He pointed out, correcting Abrose. "I am only acting in power for the sake of the wellbeing of my father and Atrovia till further action is made. I only agreed to it because I, as the heir, have to make sure all my duties and responsibilities will be fulfilled." Even though he has been leading for four years, he still isn't king. He still need approval from his father for practically everything, although it is feasible for him to do so.

"Not necessarily. Materially, we have everything, although we always need certain items like muskets and medical tools, but those can be gained through a simple discussion," He said. "It is useless to dwell on what has been set in stone. Just think, if all those councilmen, my father, and I have approved this, then it must be of some use. Do not worry about it."

"ah yes of course. I wasn't aware that His Royal Magesty was still making such large decisions while I'll. But nonetheless I'm glad he's what presume to being doing better. Please, send him my warmest regards the next time you meet." Abrose smiled softly before turning away and looking blankly at his lap. Of course Malachi hadn't initially approved. He had no inclination to. Why would the reigning prince of Atrovia approve of a treaty, much less a marriage alliance with such a small Kingsom. It wasn't though any desire of Malaxhi's that he made the decision, but for the simple need of the kingdom. And who was Abrose to judge, was he not doing the same thing. He guessed some small part of him had wanted the marriage to be out of genuine interest than just a necesity.
"Yes, i do hope you're right, you highness." And if they weren't? If there was no use Carni could off Atrovia? Then what? Abrose took a steadying breath and finished off his breakfast. Carniel, while lovely and it's people peaceful, was a struggling kingdom ever since Abrose's father died. The entire kingdom had never really gotten over their grief of the king. A ghost of a smile crossed his features at the thought of his late father's. "Mother called father a fox when they first met. She always used to tell us when we were younger that when he was counting her, he was as handsome as fox. But despite his looks was always so generous and kind, even when mad. The kingdom's own clever fox." He chuckled lightly and waved a hand dismissively. "If I can't offer anything physically to your kingdom, then I at least hope the wisdom my father passed to us will be enough."

Malachi gave a slight nod as an immediate response. Leaning back into the chair, he let his right wrist rest against the side of the table. A servant came to his side, but he shook his head and lifted his left hand. He could only eat so much; he wasn't much of an eater for a long time anyways. When the servant walked away, his attention focused back on Abrose.

"His Majesty is only physically ill. Mentally, he is as strong as a legion of our men," He stated. Though he regularly met with his father everyday, mentioning him always made him feel strange. Yet he couldn't show it, so he went on. "On another note, I am sure he has other reasons for this union aside from some sort of political or material gain. Trust me, he has his ways just like I do. Like father, like son as they say."

Flickering his eyes back to the other prince, he observed him from where he sat. He examined Abrose's face as he spoke, looking closely at his expressions and the way he held himself. For a brief second, he thought back to last night. His fingers curled into his palm as he internally recounted them. He quietly exhaled to himself.

A small dim smile spread across his face as he watched Abrose light up. There was just something in the other's presence that was bright; he wasn't sure why. Naturally, he tried his best to keep it from becoming a big beam, in to which he did succeed or at least that's what he thought.

"Foxes are known to be intelligent when it comes to strategizing their tricks. I believe it will be more than enough," He chuckled. "But nevertheless, and again, do not worry about what you're giving us with this marriage. I believe my father had more important reasons when accepting this. Just go on with it, be at my side. Be there as my husband, my king consort, my number one Carnielian ambassador, and in due time, as a co-father to our children. That is all and that will be your duty when we get married."

Sitting up straight, he snapped his fingers. The same servant from before dashed over. Malachi leaned in and whispered for more tea, then watched as the servant walked away. Glimpsing back at Abrose, he attempted giving a reassuring smile or at least what he thought was a grin.

"Tell your siblings and mother the same. I am not going to stress you into actually giving something when we marry. As long as our two countries are united together as allies and both of our people are okay, then that is all we need from us getting married."

Abrose covered his mouth with his hand as a deep Rosy blush bloomed on his cheeks. Children. One some level, Malachi expected to raise children with Abrose. It shouldn't have surprised Abrose as much as it did. Of course Malachi wanted heirs. It wasn't so much of a problem that they weren't full blooded royals as it was before, just that the child was raised in a royal hold as a prince or princess. But, for some reason, raising kids with Malachi was surprising to Abrose. Marriage and having an ally kingdom was one thing but raising children took more than an agreement, from.both parties. To Abrose, Malachi didn't seem like the type of person to want kids, or at least someone who'd loosen up around them.but maybe he was wrong.
He breathed a laugh at the mention of his mother and siblings and shook his head. "yes, I will tell them about the marriage, as well as the plans to come afterwards, though the part about the children may have to wait a bit, at least until they're more comfortable with the thought of us raising them."

"Is everything alright?" He asked. The expression on Abrose's face left him a puzzled one of his own. His right brow quirked up as he slightly turned his head to the left. Was the mentioning of having children really something that could produce such a reaction? But he thought that given his situation that it would be obvious.

If only Sohan was still alive, then he would not have to worry about all of this. Sohan would be married to Princess Vera and probably have three children if he was. Then he would be off either in the military or as an ambassador, and yet here he is now.

"You do not have to, but it should be obvious. No matter if I were to marry you or a princess or anyone, I have to have heirs. This is the situation Fate has put us in, but you do not have to worry about it as much as I do," He said.

The servant from before came back with a fresh pot of tea then left after pouring a cup for the prince. Malachi mumbled a thank you before holding the cup in his hands. Feeling the heat of it in his hands, he took a sip then sat it back down.

"And before any discussions of children further, let me say that I plan to wait at least a year after we marry. We have to get all affairs in order before anything." He reclined back into the chair, looking off to the side. Silently, he cracked his knuckles. "You've met my niece and nephew, right? Princess Csilla and Prince Ezra of Brastilux? They are wonderful children. I am surprised your brother hasn't married yet."

He nodded and waved a hand, taking a moment to compose himself. "Yes, everything is alright. I never meant to make you think I don't want kids. I definately do. But I don't know about you but I myself still consider myself very much a child." He laughed a d shook his head. Maybe it was the remaining alcohol in his system from last night or maybe it was the statement of having kids together that made Abrose speak his mind more freely but either way, he couldnt seem to stop himself from blabbering on. Who was he kidding, he wanted kids. He truly did. But was it all going to fast? In less then six months he was to marry someone he barely knew and then in a year after that he was to raise kids with that same man. He inhaled deeply, taking the momentary lull in conversation to organize his thoughts.
"I agree we should wait at least a year. It would give us a chance to get to know each other more and, as you said, get everything in order." He stated with a nod, he'd be able to do this. While Abrose did think Malachi had some faults, he truly didn't know anyone who didn't. While it didn't seem like it now, he was sure they'd be able to form a relationship that based more out of genuine interest for one another, and, while maybe not romantic love at first, a love as friends and allies for each other that would create a stable foundation to raise their kids in. He found comfort in that thought and returned his attention to Malachi, shaking his head with a easy smile. I have not. I don't think I caught them at the ball last night. I'd love to meet them one day." He nearly chimed on the next bite of his food, holding up a hand in momemtaty pause to collect himself. "Let's just say Shire isn't the marrying type." He said with a laugh. "He's considered it many times, knowing it'd be best to have a king or queen beside him on the throne but he's never actively daughter out a partner. Even less so after father's passing." He shrugged and took a sip of his drink. "If you have anyone in mind my stoic and stern brother might tolerate, or who might tolerate him, please do send them his way. He needs it." He laughed and shook his head

Holding up his hand, he shook his head. Malachi quietly laughed as he listened along. He never really expected to get such a reaction from Abrose; he just wanted to put it out there, although given his situation, it was pretty obvious. In a way, he did understand his fiance. It would also be best to wait till they were actually ready, although he knew that the council and advisors would be bothering him the whole time.

"Oh I did not believe that, I was just concerned given your expressions. My apologies for that, t'was never my intention," He replied. "You do have a youthful-like aura. It is alright. I just like to plan things ahead of time, even if it will be a few years from now."

At least a year. Could he possibly fix everything in that time frame or even a couple of years? It seemed that it would never happen, yet with their enemies north of the border, Valenia, and the possible spies in the courts, he needs to do something about it. Heavens only knows how he would be if something were to happen to him or Abrose or their future children.

He held the side of his head with his hand. Once again, he nodded in agreement with what he heard. And on another note, it would be better to wait in order for them to have a better relationship. He was not sure how close they would get at that point. Maybe they would get closer before getting married or maybe they would after.

"Oh, he is not? How strange," He nodded. "Well, if he is interested, I could introduce some nobles to him. As the heir to the throne, he should be married. My sister and brother-in-law married when they were 20 and Sohan was my age when he was to wed. Shire should fulfill the duties given to him, but he should do it at his own pace."

A gentle sigh left his lips. He pushed the plate away from him before he stood up. "Would you like to walk around for a bit before you go? I could show you other parts of the palace."

Abrose sighed heavily but has a smile on his face. "My dear brother is a very stubborn man. You no doubt have had experience with his temper. But no matter what he may do, he does it for the good of his people and family. I only hope he may find a spouse that balances him out." Abrose chuckled lightly at the thought of his brother letting down his guard and stubbornness for someone he adored. It was a thought that he hoped would come.e true.
He glanced up and smiled lightly. "I'd love to." He stood and went to grab for his plate before pausing. At home everyone would help the kitchen staff with dishes since there usually were so many people eating for breakfast and dinner, but here, that wasn't the case. It wasn't necessary. He entchwd his hand and slowly drew it behind his back, the thought not sitting well with him. He hated that expectation others had around him just because he was a prince. Hated when others felt compelled to do his bidding just because if his title. He straightened and slowly took the empty plates and glasses. "In just a moment." He added on, gently brushing past Malachi to take his plate and glass as well. "Uhm, could you possibly direct me to the kitchen?"

He scoffed at the prince's words. To him, they were very much true, but he still found them to be very funny at the same time. His shoulders lightly bounced as he softly laughed.

"It is pretty amusing in that, your brother and I are similar in some ways. Like two king lions in a cage," He lightly laughed. "Before I match him with someone, I will have to get on his good side, if possible."

Malachi stood and watch as Abrose was gathering up the plates and such. His head turned to the left as his left brow rose up in confusion. It took him a few moments to realize what the other prince was doing. He immediately shook his head and held his left hand up.

"That will not be necessary, Prince Abrose," He said. With a snap of his fingers, he made a few servants come over and start to clean up. "Soon this will be your home and you will never have to do that simply because it is not your place to do so. Although my servants and I do appreciate your willingness to."

With his hands behind his back, he ambled over to the door. Another servant opened it as he was close by. Briefly, he looked at the guard who stood out in the hallway waiting for him. After giving a quick head bow, he turned to look back at Abrose. "Come on, there is no use in idling by, my dear."

Abrose watched as the servants from before quickly eared the table, gently taking the plates and glasses from his hands as well before bowing to them both and dissapearing to where he assumed were the kitchens and servants quarters. He was half tempted to follow and help but didn't want to make Malachi wait or go against his words. He was right after all. Abrose was a prince no matter how many times he t protested despite that title. He had a place just as Malachi did and the servants around him. He silently promised the next time he came, hopefully before the wedding, he'd allot a time to meet personally meet Malachi's people as well as spend time with the castle staff.
With that thought in mind, and the comfort of that reassurance, he pushed himself with a stide behind Malachi, smiling and nodding his head in thanks to the guard at the door. "Am I allowed to know where you are taking me, prince? Or shall it be left as a mystery until we arrive?" Abrose inquiried with a curious tilted of his head, his red hair flopping this way and that as he moved

As he waited, he tilted his head up to get another glimpse around. With his shoulders relaxed, he did his best to remain patient. Normally Malachi was a rather patient kind of person, although it always wore away whenever he was stressed and had a lot on his mind. This current moment is no exception to it, and yet, he forced a light grin while he stood there.

He really wondered why Abrose was going to clean up and put the dishes away. Now of course, Malachi does tidy up so it isn't a hassle for the servants, but he never put away plates once. And to what he observed, it seemed like a habit for the other prince. It piqued his interest.

Once Abrose was close to him, he walked out of the dining hall. "I thought that I would explain it all as we go. Usually when I show parts of the castle, that is what I do," He delineated. Briefly, he glanced over his shoulder to check that the guard was five steps back before looking forward again.

His eyes flickered out towards the windows as they passed by. Outside the sky was a shade of dark gray with some mixtures of light cutting through the clouds. The ground was lightly covered in snow; he was told that there would be more later on in the day but not till the evening.

A sigh left his lips. He was not sure if it was the weather outside or his lethargy that was making him a bit exhausted. Malachi decides to not think much about it as he feared that pondering it would reveal to others through his expressions or movements.

"The last time this place was renovated was twenty-eight years ago. My mother thought that it was getting old, and wanted to make it more like home. That is why some of the architecture and details appeared to be from Maehwa and others from Atrovia," He said, pointing to some things as they walked. "Of course she took inspiration from other kingdoms, but still make it Atrovian. She wanted to make it like home for everyone from all parts of the world."

Abrose nodded in awe as he looked more closely at the architecture of the walls and ceiling, catching glimpses of familiar techniques used by other kingdoms and continents. "It truly is a marvel, what's been created here. I bet, even if you've lived here your whole life, you'd still find new bits and pieces of other kingdoms here."
Abrose took a peek out the window, wondering if any of the other kingdom influences had made out onto the grounds as well. He frowned slightly at the sight of snow drifting down. It would take a few weeks for the snow ti hit Carniel. That gave Abrose enough time to plan ahead for tje coming winter months, at least he hoped.
"you're people seem to be doing well, even with winter approaching." He mused with a smile, clasping his hands behind his back as he turned away from the window and continued to gaze around the halls

Every now and then, Malachi would glance over at Abrose. He turned his head to catch a glimpse of the other prince looking around. The sight of the prince with wide eyes that lit up made him smile. When the corner of his lips curved up, he lowered his chin to the floor till he returned back to his normal facial expression.

He swayed his head while turning his hand side to side. "Sometimes I do, but most of the time I can point out which detail is inspired by whom. Of course a great portion of the castle still takes from the older architecture," He said. "My father used to point out the ones I did not know and I would read through my mother's journals and papers to find the rest. She mostly wrote them all in her native tongue so it took awhile to translate."

Looking out through the window, he nodded to what Abrose said. While there was snow on the ground, more began to fall down from the sky. "Us Atrovians, along with our enemies, the Nolvaks up north, know winter like the back of our hands," He chuckled. "Usually snow will start to fall around late October to early November, but it is not necessarily like what is outside right now. What is winter like in Carniel? I heard it's not as heavy as ours."

Turning down a corner, he looked at the doors they passed by. He pointed, quietly counting them while waiting to find the one he wanted. "This hallway is usually where the delegates, scholars, historians, and other government workers are," He explained while stopping at a door. "This room is the archives. Shall we go in?"

Abrose smiled softly as he tilted his head towards the prince as he spoke so fondly about his mother. Malachi seemed soften ever so slightly when speaking of the late queen, ever the proud son when speaking of his mother's wonderful creations and contributions to the castle as well as the kingdom. He hadn't know Malachi's mother was not natively Atrovian. "It must have been quite an adventure for you to take the time to learn the language and figure out all the little secrets the castle has, curtesy of her Highness."
He caught a glimpse outside once again, brows turning up in slight worry. He pushed that worry down and turned back to the prince beside him. "No, not as heavily as you or the Nolvaks. Sometimes we don't even get snow at all. But it always gets cold enough enough for crops to struggle." He shivered at the thought of the food shortages that usually came with the cold moths. Thankfully it was rare when the shortage became worrisome. "We've adapted thankfully, finding crops that seem to survive well enough in the colder months. I'm not entirely rirely sure how my people would reacting seeing even this amount of snow falling." He chuckled lightly yet silently prayed the never would.
He followed Malachi around the corner and down the hallway lined with doors, eyes widening in complete awe as the prince explained the archive room. "I'd love to if allowed, you're sure it's alright with the scholars if we enter? I wouldn't want to disturb their work."

"Indeed, it was quite the adventure. Her Majesty was quite the writer too for she left behind over ten diaries, and there were some phrases that I had to go to Sohan or one of my relatives on her side to help translate." Malachi chuckled as he briefly reminisced about going through his mother's journals and papers. It gave him a bittersweet feeling that he both liked and hated at the same time. This had to be a first for him to talk about her for longer than a single moment.

Glancing back at Abrose again, he picked up on the worrisome look. He wondered if the other was worrying over getting home or about the people back at home. Only he could assume what the matter was, and yet he did not feel to be in a position to ask. Not that he did not want to, but how he was not sure to go about it. They are getting married to help the people in Carniel after all.

He kept staring out the window, watching as it fell. Tilting his head slightly to the right, his eyes followed as bits of it fell from the sky onto the ground. Every now and then he glimpsed over at Abrose, listening to him. "You are a bit south from here, I suppose that does make sense," He nodded. "When Sohan's fiancée first came here, she was so giddy and surprised by the snow. Sohan had to give her one of his furs because she did not have appropriate coats to keep warm."

No one stood outside the archive room, unless it was late in the evening or when there was an event. The scholars usually kept an eye on who would come in and out during the day. Malachi shook his head, "I can enter into whatever room I desire. They know very well how to handle their work while I am there."

After knocking on the door, he waited a few moments before opening it. Inside, walls were covered with shelves and drawers. The back wall had windows on it, showing more snow falling outside. There was a long desk in front of it with papers scattered. And there was also rows of shelves with drawers, scrolls, and such standing on the floor. Every few rows there were smaller desks were scholars sat, paying attention to their work.

He let out a small chuckle and leaned towards Abrose. "They get so focused into their work that they do not even realize that their crown prince is here," He whispered, "And yet, they will notice someone who is not supposed to be here."

Abrose stood by the entrance and took in the room, holding his breath for a few moments, thinking it even too loud for this space. A smile spread across his features as he took in the stark contrast of the snowy outide shown through the windows, compared to the warmth of the room. He finally was able to look away from the gorgeous room to look up at Malachi and laughed softly "always more vigilant than what meets the eye." He mused, slowly walking into the room and running hand along the closest desk, appreciating the fade wood and smoothed edges, no doubtedly from years of countless scholars coming to study. He braced a glanced at some of them, finding that most if not all were barrier deep in their work.
"This is truly magnificent." He murmured to Malachi, flicking his gaze around to the shelves lining the walls and tried to control his urge to read over every beautiful title, every yellowing scroll.
"I could spend hours here and most likly read only a fraction of what's here."

Glancing beside him, he watched as Abrose began to smile. A gentle sigh left through his lips before he faintly grinned for a second. With his hand still at the door, he took a step in and waited till the other prince was in the room.

"They are very vigilant with their mind," He nodded. "That is why we trust them with the country's most important documents and journals." As he spoke, the head of the archives looked over and bowed at him. Raising his hand, he gave a simple wave before giving a head bow. "The Leeros value history as much as guns or fur."

Following alongside his fiancé, he stood with his arms behind his back. His eyes looked down at the desk before over at the scholar who was working. It was a man around the same age as him and Abrose, working on transferring data from a paper to a journal. Carefully, he leaned over to a better glimpse of it.

Quietly, he chuckled and nodded in agreement. "It really is something. My mother also reinvented the archive system too. The idea of having historians and scholars comes from her home country," He explained while whispering.

Taking a step forward, he cautiously pulled a scroll from the shelf. The detail in it was different from the others, but he already knew what it was. After opening it, he leaned over to Abrose and whispered, "Here. This is a copy of the letter to King Baekho, my grandfather, asking if my father could marry my mother. It's in their language but there's another one in ours. There are many scrolls like this, but I always found this one to be very special to me."