Work Text:
Within Aedes Elysiae, there is a tradition passed down in all families, essential to the people’s way of life.
When a child is born, the parents are given a divination as to whether or not their child will lead a successful life. Everything down to personality, reliability, and worth. Prince Phainon was merely an hour old when the royal diviners gathered the members of the royal council and delivered the prophecy that would divine his life. His personality was one of joy and enthusiasm, persisting even in the face of adversity. However, another part of his fate seemed obscured in fog, a dilemma that would reveal itself when the time was right.
Within this happy life, there will be a time of pain and sorrow that is unparalleled. This sadness will not dispel until he finds a singular star to drive away the night’s terror.
Phainon knew the words of his prophecy well, and although the words haunted him, he knew it was his fate and should be faced head on. The white haired boy was exactly like how his divination foretold--happy, humorous, loved by all, easy to get along with, made friends easily…
This persisted for many years, until he found someone who defied his advances and made him even more determined to pursue a friendship.
Prince Anaxagoras of the Grove of Epiphany.
→
Phainon was 10 when he first visited the Grove, his parents on royal business to discuss trade with the King and Queen of the kingdom of scholars.
Aedes Elysiae was a humble kingdom with small villages and verdant mountains, but they have placed their faith in Kephale for many centuries and have made a name for themselves by being stewards of trade and charity. The Grove does not have much history with them, their past dealings short and to the point, just the way the scholars there preferred it to be. However, in recent years, talks for further partnerships and meetings have begun, and it was looking to be a prosperous time.
Phainon did not like participating in royal talks--he found the process to be boring, although he kept a smile on his face and laughed whenever the older men in the council would crack a joke that made no sense. Thankfully, there was an outing for him that was beneficial.
When Phainon and his parents found themselves in the throne room of the Grove, the King and Queen were waiting for them patiently. However, as Phainon stuck his head out from behind his mother’s leg, his eyes were drawn to the child who was placed in between the Grove’s leaders, holding the Queen’s hand gently.
He was a little boy as well, around Phainon’s age if he had to guess. His hair was a gorgeous light blue-green, tied into a ponytail that fell onto his shoulder. His right eye was a wondrous mixture of blue and pink, but what was quite curious was the fact that his left eye was covered by an eyepatch. The boy’s face was quite stoic, a stark contrast to the smile that Phainon flashed at him. The boy simply furrowed his eyebrows, looking off to the side to avoid eye contact. Their parents exchanged greetings for a moment before Phainon’s father motioned towards his son.
“This is my son, Phainon. He’s 10 years old, but he’s quite the social butterfly.” his father said, to which the Grove’s king laughed heartily.
“Excellent, he sounds just like you. Say, your son and mine can hang out nearby, this political stuff gets boring for them, even if my darling son is full of intellect.”
“That sounds swell. Go on, you two.” Phainon’s mother took the boy’s hand, the blue-green haired prince following behind quietly as they were brought into the room to the side.
Phainon’s mother shot him a smile before closing the door, leaving both of the kids inside to themselves.
“Well… that was sudden. I didn’t even get to voice my opinion!” Phainon sighed, shaking his head.
The blue-green haired boy didn’t bother responding, instead he swiftly reached for a book on the bookshelf before sitting down on the couch. The boy opened the book to a certain bookmarked page, and his body seemed to stiffen as he began to glide his eyes over the words.
“Uh… so… I guess we just sit here and talk now? I’m Phainon, prince of Aedes Elysiae! Nice to meet you!”
Phainon stood in front of the other boy, hand extended outwards in anticipation of a handshake. However, this boy had the gall to not even look him in the eyes or even reciprocate the gesture, simply keeping his eyes on his book.
“I am Anaxagoras, and I have no time for small talk.”
“Anaxag… what? Uh… I think it’s easier to just call you Anaxa!”
The blue-green haired boy looked up at him then, eyebrows furrowed and his one visible eye narrowed.
“Rule number one of being acquainted with me--do not call me Anaxa.”
“But Anaxa rolls off the tongue better, don’t you think?”
“Ugh, ignorant fool, you--”
“Hah, that’s the first time I’ve been called that!” Phainon exclaimed happily, although this intrusion seemed to irritate Anaxa further.
“Rule number two, do not interrupt me, for silence is golden. Ugh, whatever… I have no time to waste speaking with you. I could have read the next few sentences of my book during this time.”
Phainon was flabbergasted at this, unsure of how to react.
No one has ever denied my friendliness like this… and who even establishes rules like that?? Well… if he wants to build such a high wall, then I’ll just tear it down!
“Okay, well… are you sure there’s nothing you want to talk about? Maybe you want to talk about research, or maybe even how wise of a Titan Cerces was?”
Anaxa sighed heavily, closing up his book and staring up at Phainon. It was like a little flame had ignited in his eye, so very close to turning into a blaze.
“I care not for the Titans, nor do I care about the topics the other scholars of the Grove talk about. Any ideals of mine spoken about to another Titan-worshipping royal will be considered blasphemous, heretical… so, you’d best save your ears if you wish to stay reasonable, follower of Kephale.”
For a ten year old, he’s pretty feisty… Well, the same could be said about me, I guess! But… I suppose he doesn’t realize how different I am yet.
Phainon smiled slightly, a small laugh coming out of his mouth. Axaxa raised an eyebrow, clearly confused by this.
“What’s so laughable about this?”
“It’s just… I assume you react this way because people often reject the topics you talk about?”
“Not just often, but always. I am encouraged to pursue knowledge in this land of scholars, but when I reach for the unknown and reject tradition, I get shut down by both my family and others. They will never understand…”
Phainon hummed, sighing before sitting down on the couch. He kept some distance between the two of them, but not too much distance.
“I am a worshipper of Kephale, and I do have my own ideals, but… that shouldn’t stop us from being friends! If you want to talk about your thoughts, then you can always come to me, friend.” Phainon smiled radiantly, and Anaxa sat there in silence for a moment, in deep contemplation.
Phainon blinked once, twice, waving his hand in front of the boy’s face.
“Earth to Anaxa?”
“I’m here, you fool, I’m just thinking.” Anaxa tried to hiss, but it came out a bit quieter than he had wished it to.
Eventually, Anaxa relented, letting out a breath from his nose.
“People place their faith in Titans, even if they are gone. They follow their traditions, even if they are gone. Even if a kingdom has moved into a new era of humanity, they have not forgotten the Titans’ traditions. But I see Titans as being no better than humans--they are blinded by their desires, wage war, fall in love, experience heartbreak… all characteristics synonymous with human struggles. Yes, perhaps the Titans helped us have these emotions, but so too have humans taught lessons to the Titans. I don’t believe in Titans, only science and my own mind palace. Science, the alchemical arts… nothing is more truthful to me than my own mind.”
Phainon listened intently, taking in all the information until the boy stopped talking.
“So… that’s my story.”
“I think that your aspirations are interesting, and I respect it! I really, really, wanna be friends, so don’t let this stop you from giving me a smile! How about it?” Phainon smiled widely, but Anaxa merely sighed, rolling his one eye in response.
“I don’t smile, it’s unnecessary.”
“Alright, dark and mysterious… have it your way.” Phainon laughed.
Perhaps it was then that Phainon’s universe began to expand, and a small, miniscule light in the distance sparked in the furthest reaches.
→
Phainon and Anaxa had become well acquainted in the years to come, Anaxa teaching the other many of his philosophies and the white haired boy listening intently every time.
Their families were now well-linked in the trade world, and Aedes Elysiae had even found a partnership with Castrum Kremnos now that King Mydei and Prince Phainon were close friends and rivals. But when Phainon was 15, a disaster struck his hometown that changed many things in his life.
It had been a full year since Phainon last spoke with or saw Anaxa, and he was planning on visiting before all hell broke loose in Aedes Elysiae. While the back tide was gone forever, extinguished by the joint efforts of many Titans just before their passing, monsters that were descended from it still existed. The attack was sudden and uncalculated, the monsters’ only goal being to wreak havoc. Aedes Elysiae was invaded, its homes and grounds aflame from the fighting and death--Phainon and his soldiers fought valiantly, and under his parents’ orders, messengers were sent out to Okhema, the closest kingdom to Aedes Elysiae geographically that could lend aid.
Whether or not the messages got out safely was a question that would only be answered in a matter of time, though, lest the smoke rising in the kingdom would alert them instead--perhaps, by then, it would be too late. This event was Phainon’s greatest fear, and now he understood that this was the darkness that was prophesied in his divination. His soldiers, nowhere to be found… havoc spreading through his homeland… and even the other kingdoms, if they failed to dispel the enemy here and now. The scent of blood--both his comrades’ and his own--permeated through the air in the forest where Phainon stood, and clouded his vision. He had lured a group of enemies away, hoping to buy time for his parents. His muscles were on the verge of breaking, his heart was on overdrive, and there were many thoughts running through his mind.
Is this the day that Aedes Elysiae falls? Are mother and father safe? Will… Will I survive? And… how did these monsters even breach into the kingdom anyways? Perhaps their methods are more advanced than we thought.
But he kept pushing, vowing to defeat the monsters until he finally gave out--and by give out, he meant until death.
It was not until he was stabbed by the enemy that all the pain that his body had been dismissing finally registered in his mind, the effects crashing against him like a tidal wave. With a loud grunt he fought back, and the enemies in front of him finally were destroyed. But his body was spent, and he let out a groan of pain as he stumbled backwards into a tree trunk, sliding down until his legs were extended helplessly and his head thrown back against the bark. He applied pressure to the wound in his side, but it wasn’t helping the constant flow of blood. In the distance, he could see his homeland, the amount of smoke diminishing and the sights slowly turning back to normal. A small smile crept up on his blood ridden face, and it was like his body and spirit let go at that moment.
Home is safe, so… I can sleep in peace, amongst the verdant trees that I love so dearly… Goodbye mother, father… Anaxa.
Phainon had closed his eyes, and he was sure Thanatos’ embrace was ready for him. However, he only got to close his eyes for a moment before a voice in the distance alerted him.
“...ainon! Phainon!”
Who’s… calling me?
His vision was blurry, but he could make out two figures approaching him in the distance, their steps rapid.
More enemies…?
As his vision became clearer, he was able to quickly forgo that conclusion.
“A… naxa?”
Anaxa and the pink haired girl beside him approached swiftly, Anaxa kneeling down beside him while the pink haired girl assessed his condition frantically.
“Hyacine, what’s his status?”
“Professor, he’s lost a lot of blood! This far in, I don’t think even my healing magic will work on him…” the girl named Hyacine shook her head.
Phainon blinked, sending a small smile over at Anaxa.
“Wow… it’s been a while, friend. You’re looking as radiant as ever.” Phainon said. Anaxa sighed, clearly annoyed.
“Don’t speak, and don’t try to flatter me when you’re on the verge of death. Everyone dies, but today is not your day.”
And that was when, for the first time, Phainon bore witness to what lay underneath the eyepatch of Prince Anaxagoras.
It was like he was hollow on the inside, the blue within him meshing well with the yellow light that depicted a star. It was like a whole other realm existed within him, filled with intricate lines.
“You… What are you doing?” Phainon asked, to which Anaxa responded with a small growl.
“Just stay . Let me do my work.”
And so Phainon let him.
The blue-green haired man reached into his eye socket, a small hint of the light attaching to his finger. Anaxa let out a shudder of pain, and he winced for a moment, Hyacine looking at him in concern but not making any moves to stop him.
“You may feel overwhelmed by this, but it will heal you.”
Anaxa placed the glowing essence on Phainon’s gaping wound, and it was like Phainon had been softly caressed by something made of fluff and clouds, before sending him into space and placing him in front of the spectacular view of the stars. His eyes began to flutter closed, and his eyes were trained only on Anaxa before he finally allowed himself to sleep.
The lingering feeling of a certain someone’s hand on his had not gone unnoticed, either.
→
When Phainon awoke, it was to the bright rays of sunlight and the sound of birds.
With a groggy groan his eyes wandered, looking at his surroundings. He was in his room, wrapped in his white bedsheets and wearing his usual nightly attire.
“Your Highness, you’re awake!”
Phainon looked to his left, Hyacine looking at him with a smile.
“Hyacine… right? What… what am I doing here?”
“Don’t you remember? Me and Professor found you bleeding out, but thankfully you’ve been healed.”
“Mother, father, home… is everything…alright?”
“Everything is fine. There were casualties, but nothing major. Both the Okhemans and us from the Grove were able to get here on time--me and Professor were in the area.”
“Professor…?”
That’s right, she called Anaxa ‘Professor’. What’s that all about?
Hyacine’s eyes looked somewhere past Phainon, and the white haired prince followed her gaze--on the patio overlooking the city, Anaxa stood there with a book in his hand, back turned to the both of them but surely listening to their conversation.
“Hyacine,” Anaxa spoke up suddenly.
“Yes?”
“You can leave the two of us be, if Phainon is back to full health. We have some things to discuss.”
“Of course, Professor.”
Hyacine shot Phainon a smile as she helped him out of bed, bowing once respectfully before heading out the door. Phainon walked over to the patio, breathing in the fresh air and smiling to himself as he gazed upon his safe, monster-free homeland.
“How are you feeling?” Anaxa asked as he put away his book, looking at Phainon with that trademark stoic face of his.
“Better, thanks to you and Hyacine…”
Phainon pursed his lips together, letting out a small sigh.
“What… What was that?”
“What was what?”
“That thing you did… Your real eye?”
Anaxa stared at him for a moment, humming once before he turned his gaze back to the kingdom below.
“Royal families all have something special bestowed upon them, courtesy of the Titans ,” Anaxa began, a small look of disgust on his face as he mentioned the Titans.
“For the Kremnoans, it is immortality. For the Aidonians, it is the knowledge of the Titans' language. For Aedes Elysiae, perhaps their curse is not being flawed at all,” Anaxa said, Phainon’s mouth slightly curving downwards.
No flaws… nothing that could save me from death.
“But for the royals of the Grove, they are blessed by the ability to see things differently--not like the power bestowed upon the Okhemans, but not unlike it either. The ability to quickly suck up information, to see the weak points of an individual, or assess their health in swift time… All this is within me, but it just manifested in a different way. My body is still my body, and my insides are still my insides--that power within me is much the same as any tissue or bone within me.”
Anaxa extended his hand in front of himself, looking down at it with furrowed eyebrows.
“But the power comes with a cost. Every time I use it, a fragment of my soul, my lifespan, is lost. Cracks have formed on my body many times, and have healed many times.”
Phainon widened his eyes, clearly distraught.
“You used it on me… You didn’t have to do that.”
“It is but a sliver of my life, a price to be paid for the greater good. We are both alive, and that is what matters. And besides, I would not use it on just anyone .”
Anaxa would never say it aloud, but Phainon knew what he was trying to say.
I care about you, and I want you to be safe.
Phainon hummed, laughing a bit.
“Well then, I am grateful for your efforts, Your Highness. Although… What’s this ‘Professor’ business about?”
“Oh, that. Well… things have changed in the year we haven’t seen each other. I opened my own school of research, where students of all walks of life will learn my teachings and philosophies, while also going on the paths they desire. ‘Do not conform to society--why reach for the stars that we know so much about, when you can study the unknown instead?’--this is my lesson to them.”
“Your own school… How interesting. What did your parents say?”
“Tch, they have long since been trying to defy my so-called blasphemy, but I pay them no mind, no matter how much they ask me to revoke the school. Hyacine is my assistant and student, and many more students are to come. They cannot stop what I have started.”
“Huh, strict parents really run in both of our families, huh?” Phainon asked, to which Anaxa crossed his arms with a sigh.
“Hmm.”
They stood in silence for a moment before Phainon spoke up again.
“Let me join.”
“What?” Anaxa blinked, looking in his direction.
“Let me be your student. After this attack, I know that I will never recover, and perhaps I will try to prove myself in many ways… but whatever the future has in store for me, I have a feeling that being part of your school will relieve some sort of agony I feel inside me. So please--let me be your student and understand all your teachings.”
Anaxa pondered for a moment before he nodded curtly.
“Alright then. I, Anaxagoras of the Grove of Epiphany, hereby declare you a student of the Nousporists School.”
“Thanks, Prof Anaxa! I’ll cherish this~” Phainon smiled, to which Anaxa groaned.
“It’s Anaxagoras, you idiot.”
Anaxa, in normal circumstances, would have corrected someone further, lecturing them on the pride and usefulness of his full name. But Phainon was a special case who never learned his lesson, and they were close friends by now, five years into their friendship, and Anaxa did not have the energy to correct such a lively person.
(Slowly, within Phainon’s universe, the light in the distance began to come closer, but still out of reach.)
→
From then on, Phainon became a member of the Nousporists, learning everything Anaxa had to offer and never judging the other’s opinions.
He went on to win many debates for the school, and although their parents both weren’t too fond of them indulging in this, they could care less. It brought Anaxa joy to teach his philosophies, and Phainon found reprieve in his heart for a moment, forgetting about all the troubles back home and the dark gloom that filled him. Over the course of the next few years, the two of them sent handwritten letters, which they had not done before the attack on Aedes Elysiae. One day, Phainon got a letter from the Professor, stipulating that there was something he wished to show the other Prince.
Perhaps it was some files he had to look over? Maybe a new potted plant that Anaxa added to his already huge collection? Or… maybe the results of his previous test!? Phainon shuddered as he thought of that last option, knowing full well he might have fumbled that exam… but nevertheless, he was never one to deny his friend a visit, especially when it was Anaxa’s request. To the Grove Phainon went, greeting the citizens with a smile as he made his way to the palace. After a quick greeting with Anaxa’s parents, Phainon swiftly found his way towards Anaxa’s room/makeshift laboratory, knocking on the door twice.
(Anaxa disliked excessive knocking, and Phainon learned that the hard way when they were younger, Anaxa opening the door and hitting him atop the head with his book. The force was so powerful that Phainon nearly got a concussion. Phainon never knocked more than twice after that.)
Soon, Anaxa opened the door, a small smile on his face as he saw the man in front of him. They were both a bit more mature now, 19 years of age and reaching the peak of their adolescence. Phainon had acquired quite the strong build, and although Anaxa was as slim as ever, he grew into his features quite well and was nothing short of beautiful. His smile, which Phainon rarely ever got to see, was also a sight that made him smile in return.
“The night has just arrived, the perfect time to converse. Come in.” Anaxa coughed and opened the door wider, his smile now replaced with his stoicism. Phainon giggled, walking inside the room and letting Anaxa close the door behind him.
Anaxa’s bed was off to the side, but most of the room was filled with alchemical potions and plants, along with nuts, bolts and hammers for forging. Anaxa walked over to his work desk, Phainon following him with a little space between them.
“So, what did you want to show me? I hope it isn’t my exam from last week…” Phainon laughed, to which Anaxa rolled his singular eye.
“Don’t fret, you did fine on your exam. I’m here for something else.” Anaxa said, much to Phainon’s relief.
“Oh, okay… What is it?”
Anaxa opened one of his drawers, and from within it, he took out something that Phainon had never seen before.
It was made of an alloy that shone in the light, and it was long like a sword, but it was not a sword at all. Anaxa gripped the handle, twirling the item in his hand with flair.
“This is my new invention. I wanted you to be the first one to see it.”
“Woah…”
Phainon took it from Anaxa’s hands, looking at all of its corners in awe.
“The material is incredible… It's like a sword, but it isn’t a sword at the same time. What does it do?”
Phainon tried to strike the object in the air like a sword, hoping for something to happen. Anaxa groaned, swiping the object back into his own hands.
“You fool, it’s no play thing.” Anaxa sighed, although his voice was soft with amusement.
“This is a creation that was manifested through the power of science and my mind alone. Truly, it is the epitome of my intellect and a symbol of progression. However, it is quite dangerous, and I would not wish for it to fall into the hands of our kingdoms. So, it is only my weapon--for now.”
“Ohhh, I get it. Well… maybe you can show me how it works? It doesn’t have to be now if it isn’t ready.”
“No worries, I called you here so you could see how it functions.”
Anaxa took out another item from the drawer, some sort of pouch with a green substance within it. He placed it into the weapon, shutting it in place and making sure everything was how it should be. The professor then placed a piece of cardboard on a stand, placing it on the other end of the room and standing a good length away with Phainon beside him. He lifted the weapon and held onto the trigger, and spoke to Phainon.
“Oh, and one more thing: you’d better plug your ears.”
Phainon blinked, but nonetheless he did as he was told.
In a flash Anaxa pulled the trigger, his body going backwards slightly from the recoil. A green bullet shot out from the weapon, hitting the cardboard dead on and breaking it into bits.
The sound was loud, but Anaxa’s room was thankfully modified to not allow much sound to escape it.
“Holy shit! That was epic!” Phainon laughed, to which Anaxa tilted his chin up in pride.
“Of course, expect nothing less from me.”
Anaxa handed the weapon back to Phainon gently, the white haired man inspecting it in awe.
“There’s residue from the fired shot, and the pouch is gone… I see, so that was what you used to shoot! How innovative.”
“Hm. I take it you approve of this design of mine?”
“Uh, duh! Here, you can have it back, I don’t want to break it.”
Phainon handed it back, Anaxa placing the weapon on his desk.
“Well, that was all I wanted to show you, but… If you’d like, perhaps you can stay longer and help me work.”
It was not until Anaxa looked back up that he realized that Phainon was a little closer, and although there was still distance between them, Anaxa could hear a voice itching in the back of his head to pull him in closer. But he resisted, for he was a man of reason and rationality.
Up close, he could see many of Phainon’s features--fluffy white hair, striking blue eyes, ivory skin, and a smile that single-handedly broke down Anaxa’s barriers and gave him a newfound friend that he would cherish forever. Someone who acknowledged his opinions and did not judge him, accepting him for who he was.
What… is this that I’m feeling? Why does he, of all people, affect me this much?
“Well, as a good student,” Phainon said, ripping Anaxa from his thoughts.
“I should help my Professor out. Let’s hop to it~”
Phainon moved aside, finding his place in front of the bookshelf nearby and oblivious to the raging war Anaxa was battling in his heart.
Perhaps… seeing him more often won’t hurt.
→
A year later, that thought was being challenged by a letter that was sent out to the kingdoms.
King Mydei was looking to marry, and people from all over the kingdoms were invited to participate in the banquet, introducing themselves and offering themselves up for marriage and an alliance of kingdoms. Anaxa wanted nothing to do with it, he already had someone in his heart and there was no way he would participate…
“Anaxagoras, darling, let’s make use of this opportunity,” his mother had said at the dinner table.
Anaxa choked on his food a bit, looking up at his mother in awe.
“Are…are you serious?”
“Yes, quite so. King Mydei of Kremnos is a valiant warrior, and if we are to make ties with him, it will be beneficial for our pursuit of knowledge.”
Anaxa’s uncovered eye twitched, and for a moment, he wished to speak out.
No, I don’t want to go. I want to remain here, and continue to spend my time with… him.
But he knew he had no say in this, and he only relented with a sigh.
“Whatever you see fit, mother and father.”
That night, a part of his soul had felt like it cracked.
→
“Phainon, dear, this is a perfect opportunity!”
Phainon widened his eyes at his father, who held up the letter from Kremnos in front of his face.
“You’re close with King Mydeimos, and Kremnos is a powerful land that can surely help Aedes Elysiae in the future with a union.”
Phainon took the letter into his hands, pursing his lips into a thin line as he read over the lines.
“I, well…”
Phainon wanted to cry out, to say no to this. But his parents were strict, although they loved him with all their heart. Over the years, and as he grew older, their expectations for him grew and there were less smiles around the palace than when he was a child.
An attempt to say no would be futile.
“If that is what you desire.” Phainon said.
But what I desire…
For a moment, Phainon thought of a blue-green haired man, but he quickly dispelled those thoughts, pushing them to the back of his mind.
Anaxa would not like me in that way… perhaps I should let things run their course.
→
The night of the banquet arrived, and people from all over the Kingdoms attended to offer their royal heirs in the pursuit of marriage with King Mydei.
Anaxa was standing with his family on one side of the room, and knowing that Phainon was on the other side of that room but out of reach was sickening.
Surprisingly, before the introductions commenced, King Mydei had announced that the royals from Aidonia would possibly be making an appearance, invited by him personally. It was an interesting notion indeed, for Castrum Kremnos to send an invitation of marriage to one of their long-time enemies. Those two royals did show up eventually, though, and Anaxa had to admit that the princess’ beauty was unparalleled.
For a while, each candidate did their introductions, Anaxa and Phainon included, until Mydei finally set his sights on the Aidonians. Much to Anaxa’s intrigue, Castorice and Mydei’s curses cancelled each other out, and they were free to make physical contact with one another, which prompted Castorice to ponder on whether or not to accept his invitation. The King had gone back to his seat, and before Anaxa could look elsewhere, he heard a cough sound out behind him.
Anaxa sighed, turning around and being met with that gentle yet cold smile that made his blood boil.
“Princess Aglaea… to what do I owe the pleasure…?” Anaxa said, although he made sure to properly voice the sarcasm within him.
“Wonderful to meet you here, Anaxagoras. If I had sight, I would call you a sight for sore eyes, with how much your anxiety and anger is fluctuating in my senses.”
Anaxa could only roll his singular eye, sighing in response.
“You didn’t come here for small talk, so get to the point.”
“Hm, of course. I know there’s something on your mind, or rather someone . Why don’t you call things off right here and now?”
Anaxa froze for a moment, before letting out a smaller, quieter sigh.
“I… have no say in this. I will let this take its course… there is no room for my feelings.”
Anaxa looked to the side, and he could see Phainon walking over the throne, towards Mydei. For a split second, the image of Phainon and Mydei together flashed in his mind, and all of a sudden he felt like crying--but he held it in.
“No time for feelings… Well, if that is truly what you wish, then it shall be so. But I advise you to act, and not to yearn, O wise teacher.”
Aglaea then walked off, and Anaxa had to physically tear his sight away from the throne to protect his sanity.
→
“Phainon, why don’t you go say hello to Mydei for a moment? It’ll make him happy to see you again after a while.”
Phainon’s mother smiled, to which Phainon laughed nervously.
“It has been a while, huh… Ok, I’ll go.”
They’re so adamant on getting me married to Mydei… If I were alone right now, I’d be laughing at the stupidity of it all. But if it is to be so, then… maybe I can at least try to speak with Mydei more?
Phainon walked through the crowds of people and towards the throne, approaching from the side and speaking up when the blonde haired man was in earshot.
“Hey, Mydei!”
Mydei turned to look at him instantly.
“Phainon, it has been many months since I last saw you. I trust you are well?”
“Yes, indeed. Thank you for asking. How are you?”
“I’m alright. There are so many candidates, but only a select few truly interest me.”
“Is that so? Well, at least you have a list in mind.” Phainon cursed himself on the inside for letting his voice waver.
Please, please don’t let it be me… or Anaxa…
“If you must know, I am considering Agalea, Anaxa, Castorice, and you. And perhaps a few others, but… mostly the four of you. Your kingdoms potentially being unionized with mine will bring out the most potential benefits.”
Fucking hell…
“Oh, r-really…? Well, that’s good to know.”
Phainon was smiling, controlling his voice and putting on his best look of joy.
“If there isn’t anything you’d like to talk about, then I’d prefer to be left alone.” Mydei said, and Phainon laughed awkwardly with a nod of his head.
“Right, right! I’ll get out of your hair now.”
On the inside, Phainon wished to tell Mydei his concerns, his fears… but with the memory of his parents in the back of his mind, he could not do it.
He simply walked off, not letting the King see the distraught look on his face.
→
Some time passed, and eventually, the banquet came to a close.
Someone in the audience had the gall to speak out against Castorice’s participation, but thankfully they were quickly overridden by the King and sent away. The princess eventually accepted Mydei’s offer, and she, Aglaea, Anaxa and Phainon would now spend time in Castrum Kremnos to get to know the King. That night, Anaxa had gone straight to bed without bidding his parents farewell, and Phainon had waved his parents goodbye before taking the time to make friends with Castorice.
Phainon had gone to his accommodated room, and as he settled into bed, he was filled with sadness.
(In his universe, the star that seemed to be getting closer to him over the years was gradually receding, its light beginning to dim. If that star went out… what would become of Phainon’s universe then?)
→
Over the course of a couple months, both Phainon and Anaxa spent time with Mydei.
Phainon and Mydei would spar, talk about their childhood memories, and just spend time in the sun. Anaxa would share his ideologies with Mydei, although he was often more focused on the scrolls and books within the library--perhaps, if he ignored Mydei hard enough, he wouldn’t be subjected to this marriage.
Phainon and Anaxa barely saw each other, and if they did, it was at breakfast or in the halls, fleeting moments that carried no meaning. Phainon feared the worst--was his previous relationship with Anaxa, which he worked so hard on, about to crumble? Were they no longer going to be as close as they were, and drift apart? His worries were inflating, and overtaking him, but… one day, under the sun, things began to take a turn for the better.
He and Mydei were conversing about small things in their usual spot, a small wind breezing through the area. Phainon gazed down at his fingers before he shifted a bit in his seat, letting out a sigh. He could not see Mydei’s face, but he knew his friend was making some sort of face of concern.
“Something wrong?” Mydei asked him.
“Well, it’s just… how do I put this… something has been itching at me for a while.”
“How so?”
“I’ve been thinking, and, well… I don’t think we’re…”
“You don’t think we’re compatible.”
Phainon then nodded, raising his head soon after and looking at the man beside him.
“Yeah… was it that obvious?”
“I had a feeling it’s what you were going to say. You’ve been thinking about it for a while, right? Back at the banquet, you seemed off, like something was troubling you.”
“I wanted to tell you about how I felt, that I didn’t truly want this, but…”
“I understand. Don’t worry, I can vouch for you.” Mydei said.
He knows how strict my parents are… I guess it will work out in the end though, right…?
“Thank you…”
A moment passed before Mydei spoke again.
“You know, Phainon,” Mydei began, Phainon looking at his friend in confusion.
“I’m sure there’s more to your story, and there are a lot of emotions you’re feeling right now… but even if you haven’t been eyeing someone… someone has been eyeing you .”
Phainon say Mydei’s eyes trail upwards, and Phainon followed that gaze, turning around to look up above.
There stood Anaxa, a sad look painted all over his face. Upon realizing that the two of them were looking his way, Anaxa’s face turned into one of surprise, Phainon similarly widening his eyes and letting out a small gasp.
Anaxa… has he always looked at me like this? Has he always looked like he longed for me, but could not bear to see me with someone else? Did it begin recently? Or maybe even years ago…
Anaxa scurried off into the palace, and Phainon immediately got up from his chair.
“M-Mydei, I gotta go.”
“Go, go. Don’t stay here, you won’t catch up with him otherwise.”
Phainon nodded and smiled at his friend in thanks, and soon disappeared into the palace, leaving Mydei by his lonesome.
The star in Phainon’s universe had come back into view once more, and it would only be a matter of time before it showed itself in its entirety.
→
“Hey, listen to me! Don’t just walk off from me, I know you can hear me!”
Anaxa continued to walk off, but Phainon’s voice did nothing to quell the stress inside him.
Phainon is gonna yell at me, maybe call me a creep… If I can just avoid him--
Anaxa gasped as a strong hand grabbed onto his shoulder, turning him around and keeping him in place. Phainon was looking down at him, his eyebrows furrowed and a frown on his face.
“You…” Anaxa groaned, Phainon letting out a sigh of frustration.
“Please… you have to be honest with me here. How long… How long have you felt like this? Looking at me from afar, not being able to breach this space between us…?”
Phainon’s eyes were pleading, and Anaxa could not tear his sight away from him. The hall they were in was silent, and stained glass causing a myriad of colors to reflect in the area with the sunlight. Anaxa was scared that if he spoke above a whisper, he would awake from a dream and find himself in a harsher reality.
“I… It’s been a while, Phainon. Perhaps months, perhaps years… I don’t know. I wanted to push my feelings aside, convince myself that it was not real… But the kid who broke down my barriers and made friends with me was real… the time when I gave a part of my soul to save you was real…”
Anaxa sucked in a breath, and he closed his one eye, for he could not bear to look at Phainon’s face.
“I tried to put those feelings away now that we’re both here to create a union with Kremnos, but… I cannot deny it any longer. And the thought of you with him or even me with him shook me straight to the core and gave me chills… I’m sorry. You can hate me for this, but it is how I feel.”
There was silence for a moment before Phainon’s other hand gripped onto Anaxa’s other shoulder, Phainon’s voice low, barely above a whisper.
“Look at me.”
And so Anaxa did.
Phainon’s eyes were glistening, coated in tears that would not breach the sockets.
“Don’t you dare… apologize. Don’t you dare… assume that I would hate you. Since when have I… hated you for what you thought was right? This has always been us--I never judged you for anything, and I accepted you as you were. Nothing has changed.”
Anaxa’s breath hitched, and he felt a slight constriction in his throat, the prelude of tears that he did not want to flow.
“I…”
“For a long time, I pretended so much. I pretended not to like you, pretended that I didn’t want to come close to you when in reality, I wished to pull you close and never let go… Even for this event, I tried to set my thoughts aside and focus on Mydei, but… Me and him can never be compatible, not when you reside in my thoughts every day, every night…”
Phainon squeezed the other man’s shoulders a little tighter, and Anaxa could only keep staring into his eyes.
“I thought you wouldn’t like me, I thought you wouldn’t want me, but… now that I know you do, things are a lot simpler… and perhaps a lot more complicated. But surely, this notion should be enough?”
Anaxa let out a small sigh, nodding once.
“Yeah. It’s enough.”
Phainon’s breath hitched, and a force compelled him in the moment, urging him to lean forward and take those plump, chapped lips into his own.
But Anaxa’s finger found a way onto his lips first, stopping him and blocking his advances.
“We are in the palace hall, it’s not the safest place--especially in the day.”
Anaxa sighed and broke himself free from Phainon’s grip, turning his back to Phainon.
“Where are you going?” Phainon asked, and oh -- Anaxa could hear it, the want and the pure need in his voice.
“My room, nightfall. Don’t be late, Phainon.”
Anaxa walked off, and he did not wait for Phainon’s answer--it never came, but Anaxa knew the answer was yes.
(Finally, the light got brighter, and it was close to overtaking the darkness.)
→
The night arrived, finally, and Phainon’s heart was beating within his chest as he walked down the torch lit halls towards his destination.
Anaxa’s room was in front of him now, and bundles of excitement were flowing through him, his palms slightly sweaty. However, he gathered his courage, not allowing himself to delay this meeting any further. Twice, gently, Phainon knocked on the door, waiting for it to swing open and reveal that object of his desires. A few seconds later, Anaxa opened the door, standing there in all his glory--he was in his nightly robes, the v-neck of the shirt a little too low for prying eyes and the pants barely hanging on to his slim waist.
“You sure know how to keep a man waiting.” Anaxa said, to which Phainon responded with a laugh.
“I sure hope I’m not late?” Phainon asked, to which Anaxa sighed with a shake of his head.
“Right on time--just barely.”
Anaxa opened the door for Phainon to come inside, and Anaxa barely got the door closed before he was pushed up against it, a small grunt coming out of his mouth as he and Phainon’s bodies pressed up against one another. Phainon’s hands found their place on Anaxa’s waist, the professor letting out a dry laugh as he wrapped his arms around Phainon’s shoulders.
“You couldn’t have waited a few more moments?”
“Oh please, you know how good you look right now.” Phainon argued, to which Anaxa looked up at him with a small smirk.
“Ah, so my experiment was a success… hah, I was unsure how’d you react.”
“Well, in due time it’ll all be off of you, but I appreciate the effort.” Phainon said, Anaxa blushing a little at the declaration.
“Oh yeah?”
Anaxa pulled the man closer, their foreheads touching and their breaths mingling—they were so close to kissing, but neither of them made any moves, simply staring into each other’s eyes.
“Say, Professor… Do you know a lot about Elysian traditions?”
“Phainon, now is not the time to be giving me a history lesson.” Anaxa groaned.
“Just hear me out, this is actually quite relevant.”
“Fine, fine. No, I don’t know much. Do tell.”
“In Aedes Elysiae, when a child is born, diviners will deliver a prophecy that outlines the child’s trajectory of life. I became what my prophecy foretold—joyful, happy, someone who easily makes friends… but there has always been a portion of divination that puzzled and scared me. ‘Within this happy life, there will be a time of pain and sorrow that is unparalleled. This sadness will not dispel until he finds a singular star to drive away the night’s terror’. I remember it word for word… the attack on Aedes Elysiae was that dark sorrow, and my life has not yet recovered, but… after years of searching, I found what I was looking for.”
Phainon took one of Anaxa’s hands into his own, gently caressing his knuckles.
“The singular thing that has kept me afloat all these years, the only thing that can calm me when things go wrong… the one who saved my life and placed part of their soul within me… ”
Phainon kissed Anaxa’s knuckles, ever so softly, and Anaxa felt like he was going to break.
“In the dark veil of night, you are my star… Anaxagoras.”
Phainon intertwined their hands, and for the first time in their lives, Anaxa cried in front of the other man.
Phainon found the scene both heartwarming and fascinating—heartwarming, because he offered Anaxa a declaration of his love, and fascinating, because the man’s tears were normal on one side, and a wondrous yellow on the other. His eye patch was still on his eye, but the tears leaked through and down his face like golden blood—Phainon leaned in, soothing Anaxa’s sobs by kissing the tears off of his face.
“Don’t cry, my dearest… don’t cry.” Phainon’s voice was a whisper as his lips came close to Anaxa’s, barely touching.
“I love you.” Phainon said, and Anaxa let out another sob that followed with a small laugh.
His smile, oh so bright, made Phainon fall in love all over again. The star that had been in the distance for so many years was now as clear as day—a bright star with angry, passionate solar flares that lit up all of its surroundings.
“I love you too.”
And no longer could Phainon see darkness—only the light of that star that enveloped everything, overtaking his senses.
Anaxagoras . That was all that was left, and it was all that he needed.
Phainon pushed their lips together, and all of their reason was gone.
Their lips moved together in tandem, Anaxa letting go of Phainon’s hand to find purchase on the man’s shoulder instead. Phainon held his waist tighter, and his tongue delved into the other man’s mouth, causing Anaxa to moan deeply.
They parted, and Phainon wasted no time diving down and kissing the man’s neck. Anaxa groaned and threw his head back onto the door, closing his eye as he felt his lover kiss all over his sensitive neck.
“B-Bed… Phainon…” Anaxa pleaded quietly.
Phainon chuckled, picking up the man by his ass and leading them to the bed while he continued to kiss his neck.
Anaxa was gently thrown onto the mattress, Phainon looming over him with a smile on his face.
“I do wonder…”
Phainon placed his hand atop the other man’s belly, a smirk coming up on his face. His hand was large, and the singular hand was able to almost entirely take over the man’s front.
“How much effort would it take for me to break you apart…?”
Anaxa whimpered quietly, but his face still retained a sliver of composure.
“How about… we find out? If you would let me… I have a few things to teach you, dear student.” Anaxa said.
“Well then, Prof… who am I to deny a lesson from you? Tell me, what do you want me to do?”
“On your back, please.” Anaxa requested. In the blink of an eye, Phainon did as he was told.
Anaxa slowly straddled the man, a smile upon his face as the white haired prince looked up at him in awe. Slowly, Anaxa lifted his hands, reaching behind his head and undoing the clasp of his eyepatch.
The object came off, revealing the secret space behind it, Anaxa throwing it off to the side somewhere. Phainon had only seen it once before, when Anaxa saved his life, but he could never forget how enchanting the man looked.
Soon, Anaxa took off his shirt, and then his already loose fitting pants, his boxers the only thing remaining. Along Anaxa’s body, there were a few cracks, a product of his alchemy.
“Here, let me get these clothes off for you—ugh, you’re wearing too much. Didn’t think about changing before you came?” Anaxa growled, hands working on taking off Phainon’s garments.
“Haha, sorry. I didn’t wanna look weird in the halls… unless you’d like the idea of people knowing about us?”
“Tch, fair point…”
Anaxa didn’t fight any further, taking off all of Phainon’s clothes except his boxers. Testing the waters, Anaxa slowly grinded forwards, eliciting a low moan from both of them at the friction of their clothed cocks. The both of them were leaking now, evident by the wet patches in their boxers.
“Mmm…” Anaxa sighed, doing the motion a few more times until Phainon’s hands came up to the other man’s hips.
“I didn’t say to touch, my dear…” Anaxa smirked, Phainon groaning in disappointment. However, being the good student he was, he removed his hands and kept them on the bed.
Anaxa smiled fondly at how obediently the other man followed his directions, and somehow that notion caused a fire to burn inside his core.
“Now be a good puppy and watch me carefully.”
Anaxa took off his boxers, tossing them to the side—what Phainon saw was mesmerizing. His spread thighs, leaking cock… and the green butt plug that was placed snugly within his hole.
“Anaxa, what…”
“Do you like it? Heh, I figured as much.” Anaxa smirked.
Anaxa trailed his hand up his side and down towards his navel before grabbing hold of his cock. He moaned gently as he stroked it in his hand, Phainon’s eyes following the motion as if he were in a trance. Anaxa soon let go, hand trailing down until it reached the plug—he took the object out, a small whimper leaving him at the loss of warmth. The object was wet with his slick, his already stretched hole gaping and fluttering with the wish to be filled with something.
Putting the object down on the bed, he sucked in a deep breath before inserting two of his fingers inside himself. Anaxa moaned loudly, his eye rolling into his skull as he grinded on his fingers.
“Ahh… Mm… Phainon…” Anaxa looked down, and all he could see was Phainon looking up at him with hooded eyes, his lip bitten and his hands clutching at the sheets in order to keep him from pouncing on the other man.
“Fuck, you’re so… you’re so beautiful.” Phainon let out a small gasp, his hard length getting more painful in his boxers by the second—but he had to perform restraint, for his Professor.
“Mmm… Have you been paying attention… to what makes me feel good?” Anaxa asked. He curled his fingers, groaning in pleasure as his pace quickened.
“Oh please, Professor… I can reach those areas within seconds, and perhaps even areas you’ve never reached with your fingers or toys. You’ve thought of me before, touching yourself, huh?”
Anaxa could only nod fervently, overtaken by pleasure.
“Heh, how cute… what would your students think? Knowing that their Professor, who is always so deadpan and discerning… would lose his control and get cock drunk so easily?”
Anaxa groaned, tears filling his eyes once more.
“Hah… you sound so confident. I hope you won’t disappoint on your test, then?” Anaxa smiled, to which Phainon smiled back.
“Trust me—I won’t.”
Anaxa swiftly took off Phainon’s boxers, letting the man’s cock swing free. It was big, and could definitely fill him up in all the ways he imagined it would, and more. Anaxa gently lined it up to his hole, and he sank down slowly, both of them moaning in pleasure at the feeling.
“Argh… Fuck, all that stretch and you’re still kinda tight…” Phainon growled, Anaxa gasping for air the further Phainon slid in.
“I… ah… Ah!”
Anaxa practically wailed when Phainon finally got all the way in, the tip of his cock pressing deliciously inside him.
It was true, just as Phainon said—already, the man was in places Anaxa could not previously reach.
“Fuck, look at you, filled with my cock… does it feel good?”
“Phainon, if you don’t start moving I swear I’ll—”
Anaxa didn’t like to be interrupted, but how could he complain when the interruption to his speech was a thrust from the man below him?
“Ah, yes…” Anaxa cried, throwing his head back in pleasure.
“Am I allowed to touch you now?” Phainon asked.
“Yes… please.”
Phainon placed his hands on the man’s hips, Anaxa pursing his lips together as he placed his own hands atop the larger ones. Phainon began to move, his pace slow but precise, hitting Anaxa in the same good spot again and again.
The man’s mouth was agape as moans left him, his eye rolled back occasionally, and his grip on Phainon’s hands tightened and he tried to grind down and match the white haired man’s thrusts.
“You’re a quick learner… hah…” Anaxa moaned.
“Oh, am I doing well? I’m glad. I’ll do you one better, though.”
Phainon’s pace quickened, and at that point Anaxa was losing himself, seeing stars. His back arched, and he leaned forwards, burying his face into Phainon’s chest as he just sat there and took it.
“Phainon, I’m… ah…” Anaxa babbled, and Phainon chuckled, nodding once.
“I know. Let yourself go.”
Anaxa could no longer hold his orgasm back, letting out a cry as he body stuttered and shook. White stained on Phainon’s muscular chest, and his heavy and hot breath lingered on Phainon’s skin.
Phainon smiled gently, rubbing the man’s back to soothe him.
“Are you alright?” he asked.
“Hngh… Yeah, I’m fine.” Anaxa grumbled, before looking at his lover.
“You don’t have to stop for me. I know you’re close, too.”
“Are… are you sure?” Phainon asked, to which Anaxa sighed.
“Yes, I’m sure. Go on.”
Anaxa leaned down, kissing Phainon on the lips gently. Phainon reciprocated, and slowly he began to thrust again, Anaxa moaning into his mouth in overstimulation. Phainon’s motions became erratic, and Anaxa could clearly hear the low moans the other was letting out below him. Finally, Phainon stilled within him, spilling inside with a groan that Anaxa mirrored.
Anaxa was spent, sighing as he could only lay atop Phainon, both of their breaths labored.
“We have to clean up.” Phainon said, to which Anaxa grumbled.
“Mm… you do it. I have no energy.”
Phainon chuckled, nodding his head.
In a flash, Anaxa was lifted by strong arms, Phainon carrying him off of the bed in a bridal position. They shuffled into the bathroom, Phainon placing Anaxa into the tub and preparing a warm bath for the both of them. Anaxa closed his eye as the warmth seeped into his skin, sighing in content as he took out the tie that was keeping his hair together.
He placed it on the table nearby, letting his hair flow down to his shoulders. Phainon stepped inside and joined him, shuffling close and placing his head on Anaxa’s shoulder.
“The water here is nice…” Phainon said, to which Anaxa hummed, reaching his hand up and stroking Phainon’s hair.
Phainon smiled and held Anaxa’s waist in his arms, pulling the other a little closer.
“I do wonder… what our parents will say.” Phainon said, to which Anaxa frowned.
“I wonder as well, but… none of that should matter. I have never cared that my parents don’t approve of my studies and school, I have never cared what others think of my opinions… So, I don’t care if we have to run far away to be together.”
Phainon looked up at Anaxa, a grateful yet sad smile on his face. He took Anaxa’s hand into his and brought it up to his face, kissing his palm gently.
“You’re right… I just hope Mydei vouching for us will be enough.”
“Did he tell you he would?”
“Yeah.”
“Hm. He’s a good friend to you… too bad he’s too flamboyant for me.” Anaxa said, to which Phainon giggled.
“He is quite the character… But anyways, he’s gonna be spending time with someone who truly loves him now, and that’s what matters.”
There was silence for a moment, the two of them basking in each other’s presence.
“We should shampoo… What do you say? I’ve been itching to try out this Kremnoan shampoo--Mydei tells me it works wonders. I mean, just look at his hair!”
“Hm… An experiment? Alright, let’s do that.”
Anaxa smiled at him, and Phainon could not help but dive in for a kiss, strong and passionate.
→
The couple had slept together that night, and when the sun rose, they got ready to leave Kremnos and head back to their homes.
As they walked towards the doors of the palace, they spotted Mydei standing there, waiting for them.
“Mydei, good morning!” Phainon waved happily.
“Hello--I see the two of you have finally sorted things out?”
“Yeah… more or less.” Anaxa responded.
Mydei hummed, reaching into his pocket and handing Phainon a slip of paper.
“I will be having my meeting with Castorice tonight, where I shall tell her of my decision to marry her. The next day, the news of our impending marriage will be spread across the kingdoms. This slip of paper recounts this information, and it also has my personal words on it defending your relationship. If you are ever stuck, or unable to convince your families of your union… I can come in person if you like, or even allow you a safe haven within Kremnos.”
“Mydei… Thank you so much.” Phainon smiled, Mydei smiling back slightly.
“Don’t thank me, I’m doing what my heart says is right. You’ve been my friend for many years, Phainon, and I will do anything to make sure you stay happy. And, well…”
Mydei looked over to Anaxa, the professor raising an eyebrow.
“You and I don’t know one another well, but I know that you love him, and that is all that I need to know. You may have a friendship with me, if you so desire.”
“Hah, how kind of you to offer… I shall consider it, if it is on the table. If I can be blunt though, your Majesty, your personality is one that I usually find myself having trouble tolerating.”
Mydei laughed heartily at that.
“I respect that. Well, if you change your mind, let me know. For now… I give you my blessings, and hope that you have a good trip home. Where are you heading first?”
“The Grove, my parents will be there as well, if I remember correctly. It is the opportune moment.”
“Alright then--good tidings to you both.”
Phainon nodded, and he and Anaxa set out, the morning sun rising slowly as they walked back towards the Grove of Epiphany.
Hopefully… things would turn out alright.
→
When Phainon and Anaxa walked into the Grove of Epiphany together, it elicited a few reactions from some civilians .
Weren’t they meant to be in Kremnos? Are they here to retrieve something?
However, the two of them ignored the murmurs, making a beeline for the palace.
Eventually, the two of them made it to the throne room, Phainon pushing the doors open--In the room were both of their parents, conversing together only to be abruptly stopped by the presence of their sons.
“Phainon, Anaxagoras? What are you two doing here?” Anaxa’s father furrowed his eyebrows.
“I thought the two of you were to be in Kremnos for a while to come… unless the King has now made up his mind?” Phainon’s mother asked.
“He indeed has. The results are to be announced tomorrow, although through the process of elimination, you can infer who it would be.”
“Aglaea has gone home, and the two of you are here, which means… the Aidonian girl?” Phainon’s father blinked.
“Correct.”
“How interesting… An unanticipated but fruitful outcome. Well, in the end, it is Lord Mydei’s decision, and I respect his choices.” Anaxa’s mother nodded.
“But then that means… Phainon, you and Mydei aren’t getting married…?” Phainon’s mother asked, to which Phainon nodded.
“I understand that you and father wanted me and Mydei to hit it off, to help Aedes Elysiae gain more recognition and strength, but… Me and him, we don’t work. We have a mutual understanding--he has personally written this to vouch for me.”
Phainon took the slip of paper and handed it to his mother, the woman reading it aloud.
“Tomorrow, it shall be announced that I, Mydei of Castrum Kremnos, and Castorice of Aidonia will wed in the coming months… Additionally, I would like to personally vouch for both Lord Phainon and Anaxagoras. Phainon and I are not able to move past our friendship, for it would render the both of us uncomfortable… My blessings fall upon both him and Anaxagoras to… fulfil their relationship fully and live a meaningful life?”
Both of their parents widened their eyes, surprised at the implications of the note. Before their eyes, Anaxa and Phainon brought their hands together, a silent agreement that no matter how their parents reacted, they would stay together.
“Is… this true?” Anaxa’s mother asked.
“Yes, mother… It is true. Phainon and I have a relationship together that has been… in the works for years. Overdue, even.” Anaxa nodded.
“Even if you don’t like it, we wish to stay together, so… Even if you send us away, we will never break apart.” Phainon said. He looked over to Anaxa, who looked at him with the same amount of love.
“Yes.” Anaxa said simply, nodding his head once in agreement as a smile appeared on his face.
They looked back at their parents for a moment, and there was a thick silence in the room for what seemed like an eternity.
“Oh my, Phainon is going to be my son-in-law! How exciting~”
Anaxa’s mother got up from her chair, surprising both boys as she enveloped them in a strong hug.
“M-Mother, you’re… squeezing too hard.” Anaxa grunted, although Phainon only laughed and blushed at the situation.
Anaxa’s mother cleared her throat, backing off with a smile.
“Apologies, I got carried away.”
“You have my approval as well, boys.” Anaxa’s father stated simply.
“Thank you.” Phainon smiled gratefully.
He then turned to his parents, a small frown on his face.
“Mother… father?”
His parents were quiet for a moment, before his father sighed.
“Perhaps… we were too strict on our expectations for you. We were focused on strengthening Aedes Elysiae, but… me and your mother never took your feelings into account.” his father said.
“Phainon, my son… if you are truly happy pursuing a relationship with the Grove in this way, then I have no right to stop you.” Phainon’s mother said afterwards.
Phainon felt like he could cry, but he held it in, smiling widely instead.
“Thank you… I’m so very happy at the moment.”
Anaxa laughed a bit then, linking his arm with Phainon’s.
“This is the better outcome… although I was fully prepared to jump out the window.” Anaxa said, which made Phainon laugh loudly.
“Come now dear, surely that wouldn’t be the best escape route…? What about, you know… the passage?” Phainon asked, to which Anaxa groaned.
“I told you about the secret passage once, and now you’re way too talkative…”
“Wait, what secret passage?” Anaxa’s father blinked.
“Oh my, you didn’t tell your parents? You know, Anaxa here has a passage under his room that leads to the woods--”
“Shut it, you overgrown puppy…! Ugh, sometimes you talk too much.” Anaxa groaned again, Phainon responding with a giggle.
“But you like it when I talk!”
“That’s debatable--it depends on what exactly comes out from your mouth, you idiot.”
“Hehe, our sons are so cute~” Anaxa’s mother giggled, to which Phainon’s mother sighed with a smile.
“Yeah… they are.”
(Darkness still existed in Phainon’s universe--the pressure of being king one day, of protecting his citizens, and maintaining that smile he always wore on his face… but that bright star still shone, giving off light that would last for many more years to come. As long as Anaxa was still in his life, he would prevail, and as long as Phainon was in his, Anaxa would have someone to confide in and love. Their hands were held together, forever a promise to never let go of one another, even in death.)