Together Forever [Private, 18+] (Pigeon & SapphireD910)

[SapphireD910]

 

Name: Ezra

Age: 23

Hair: Short, Wavy, Chocolate Brown

Skin: Olive

Eyes: Green

Height: 6’

 

Prince of Tarselem, pressure has built on him to find a bride and become a ready heir to his father, whose health has started to dwindle. News has not spread about his condition, but within their home it is not hidden that Ezra needs to be married soon. A few attempts have been made to find a bride, but Ezra has failed to be taken with any of the young ladies he’s been introduced.

 

At times he comes off a little carefree and quick to charm those he comes in contact, often feeling cooped up and unable to truly socialize and not feeling the true responsibilities that lie ahead of him. He prefers more attention to the other side of his birthright, a secret magic that he inherited from his mother’s line, though this information is rarely shared as many have deemed such people dangerous and dark omens, despite the good many with these abilities have done in hiding. He wears a charm with a purple stone, given to him by his mother who passed only a few years ago, a marker for those who recognize it of those born with the magic.

 

 

Ezra almost felt rocked to sleep by the ride by the time they arrived to the castle. It was the royal twins’ birthday, a boy and a girl, though both were often referred to as rather beautiful and looked more alike than many twins of the same gender. Ezra was encouraged to use this opportunity to meet a young lady, as was usually the case with social gatherings. Those within and closest to the family were growing impatient with his unmarried status, while he grew slightly more defiant.

 

He looked up at the castle from the base of the stairs to the entrance. It was almost like a series of ivory towers that met at the large doors and a small hill of steps. At the doors he was greeted by guards, his escorts exchanging the formalities of his identity and invitation before he was let in. The opening of the doors let out a loud mix of music, cheers and chatter. The décor was a gorgeous mix of natural colors that made the room feel warm. Still, Ezra wasn’t sure what to make of his time here and immediately found a lonely girl to invite to dance, most of the room appearing to still be awaiting the guests of honor.

 

Moments after his dance ended the room seemed to fall silent and still until two forms entered the room, almost reflections of one another. He found his eyes clung to the young princess. At first it was easy enough to dismiss, as the room was focused on the two, and he did find himself fascinated in how attractive they both were in such similar and still differing ways, not taking from his masculinity or her femininity. But as many other nobles and royals greeted and congratulated the two, Ezra’s focus seemed to still linger on the princess. He could even say something about her intrigued him, and he wasn’t even sure why. She was beautiful, but otherwise nothing stood out as abnormal.

 

He searched her person for a sign of something else; a ring, necklace or otherwise to point to something else, but as far as what he could see there was nothing. Then again, even he usually kept his stone on a chain around his neck and tucked under his shirt away from the common eye.

 

He approached the two when his turn for formalities came, bowing politely and offering his well wishes, his handler presenting two boxes with gifts, neither of which actually knew the contents of, as they were chosen and given in formal respect, not personally picked. When the two were opened it revealed a rather nice decorative sword for the prince and a set of lovely jewels for the princess. Typical, Ezra thought to himself a bit, but was still pleased to see they seemed pleased enough. With only a moment’s pause he then focused on the princess, bowing low. “Princess, would you grant me the honor of your first dance this evening?”

 

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[Kotorichan]

 

Name: Sage Erian Cormelia

Age: 18

Height: 5’2 (his brother is 6’1)

Appearance:

 

 

 

To say Sage was nervous about the party would be the understatement of the century. The princess was barely able to eat or sleep in the weeks leading up to the big day. He was meant to find a husband that night, but what if he couldn’t? What if someone discovered his secret? It could cause an all-out uprising from the people if they found out that the royal family had been lying this whole time.

 

In the hours leading up to the party Sage ended up throwing up until his stomach was completely empty, he was a complete nervous wreck. The only thing that kept him from running away from the castle was his twin brother. Samuel spent every possible moment with his twin, gently comforting and reassuring him. By the time of the party they were both ready. Sage’s makeup covered the signs of his stress and exhaustion.

 

Sage held onto his brother’s arm as their entrance was announced and kept holding onto him as they stepped out into the ballroom. The bright lights and huge crowd that awaited made Sage dizzy.

 

“Deep breaths… I’m right here” Samuel murmured, just loud enough for the princess to hear. “I won’t let anything happen to you”

 

The words brought Sage back to reality. He took a deep breath and followed Samuel to greet their guests. He smiled and curtsied to each guest, allowing them to kiss his hand. Samuel did most of the talking since he was the crown prince. Gifts were given and immediately taken away by servants, only giving the twins a moment to see what they had received. It didn’t really matter that much, the gifts were mostly just a formality.

 

Nothing very interesting happened until they reached the prince of Tarselem who asked Sage for the first dance.

 

The question made Sage blush softly, he hadn’t been expecting someone to ask him to dance already. He immediately looked up at Samuel who smiled down at him and nodded his encouragement. With his brother’s support Sage turned back to the prince, releasing Samuel’s arm. “That would be lovely” The princess replied with a curtsied.

[SapphireD910]

He could see the way the princess hesitated and seemed to seek her brother's protection, but was glad when her delicate hand found his. He held it with care and was taken aback by her small form against his much taller one when he stood straight again. "I'm thankful for the gift of your company princess." He chuckled, gently turning her around into dancing position, hand and hand and hand on her waist, at the center of the dancefloor. Even he knew that was a ridiculous thing to say and rather unbecoming of someone of his stature. There was a line between charming and cheesy. She was small, but mousy was not a fair descriptor. "I'm sorry if that was too much." He bit his lip with a smirk. "I try too hard around those I find so beautiful."

 

He looked at the princess better up close. A rather rare complextion, at least in his home kingdom, highlighted by a complementary shade of green of her gown. He couldn't help but imagine her some luxurious sweet, like a cake, given the manner to which she was groomed for the party. Her hair appeared to give her almost an extra foot, coming up to his chin. Ezra imagined her dressed down and comfortable, an imagine in his mind that would be of similar or equal interest to him. The scandalous direction of his thoughts made him realize, she still seemed nervous and slightly... unhappy purhaps. "Is something bothering m'lady? We must change this if so. It's your birthday after all."

 

Of course he'd heard a few whispers prior to her entance that the royal family wished to find her a suitor, perhaps more. He'd also heard weird thoughts of her and her brother that made it hard to have many suitor's come forth. That they were too close, too protective... maybe even more. Though her clutching him didn't help that idea, but Ezra felt she was possibly meek, and twins were known to be exceptionally close.

 

Ezra understood being pressed to his royal role and whispers of weirdness and judgment. Maybe they could relate more than either knew at the start of the evening.

[Kotorichan]

Sage allowed himself to be guided to the dance floor, moving his hand to rest on the prince's shoulder. His cheeks flushed a deep shade of red as he was called beautiful. He didn't spend much time with anyone besides his family and the servants of the palace, so he wasn't used to these sorts of compliments. "A-ah... Thank you"

 

As they danced, Sage kept his gaze steady on the man's face. The prince was so much taller than Sage or Samuel, he was also very handsome. For a moment Sage wondered if it might be nice to end up with someone like this. Someone tall and handsome who would probably be able to protect him from anything that went wrong. He quickly pushed the thought away. In truth he knew nothing about this person, this prince could be a cruel heartless person.

 

The princess was snapped out of his thoughts at Ezra's next words. "O-oh, no, I am so very sorry." He spoke quickly, worried that the man might take it as an insult if Sage was unhappy while dancing with him. "It's just that I am a bit nervous... I have never been to a party this large" He gave the man a shy smile. "Thank you for asking" It was nice that the prince had noticed Sage's mood, it made it seem like Ezra actually cared about him to some extent.

 

As they moved, Sage caught a glimpse of Samuel dancing with a beautiful princess. The princess quickly looked away, lightly biting his lip. He really was on his own right now... That just made more anxiety rise in his chest, what else was he supposed to say? Should he mention that he was looking for a suitor? No, that would be too flirty. But what if no one tried to court him because they thought he wasn't looking for anyone? Sage had to push down the fear. Otherwise he might start to panic, which would be terrible.

[SapphireD910]

Ezra's expression fell from the smirk he was trying to maintain. He saw how Sage, despite her words had seemed to be looking around for an escape and comfort from her nerves. Normally it took very little for him to charm and please those he held company with. But princess Sage did not seem happy nor even comfortable in this situation. "Maybe we should give you a moment to relax then." His features softened again. "Of course we wouldn't want to give your guests the wrong idea about me, so we'll have to keep to the party." He offered her a soft smile.

 

He looked around slightly as they continued to dance, a bit slower than when they had started. "There's a few chairs. You can sit and I can bring you some water." He slowly ended their dance and bowed before taking her hand and giving it a kiss. Ezra then walked her to the fountain for water, giving her a glass and walked her to a chair. "Shall I leave you to relax princess?"

 

Ezra had to admit, he couldn't see many of the other young ladies all that interesting now that he'd been intrigued by Sage, but he wasn't going to keep her on edge and unhappy by pushing his company on her if she wished to be left more to herself.

[Kotorichan]

"I'm very sorry, I don't mean to offend you" Sage looked up at the man nervously. He was already ruining things. When they stopped dancing he gave Ezra a curtsy. A soft sigh of relief escaped his lips when he was allowed to sit down. His eyes fluttered closed as he sipped the glass of water.

 

When Ezra offered to leave, Sage's eyes snapped open and he almost choked on the water. "O-oh, please don't leave" He said quickly, his gaze desperately landing on the prince's face. "I really have enjoyed your company, I'm just not used to being around so many people. B-but I really would like to spend a bit more time with you" His eyes dropped to the floor, all of his energy fading away as he lost confidence. "Of course, you should feel free to go enjoy the party if you prefer..." What was he doing? He was just making things worse. He should just be quiet, he couldn't do anything without Samuel.

[SapphireD910]

Ezra looked on in shock before his features softened with a nervous laugh. "Don't be ridiculous princess." He reached out and took her hand in his. "I'm glad to be in your company." Bringing the hand up to his lips he planted a soft kiss. In minutes he felt more relatable to Sage than probably anyone he ever met at these gatherings, the way someone else seemed repelled by royal duties other than him for once.

 

"I'm glad to keep you from being alone and you I. Its wrong at your own party, but if it allows me this moment I can't be upset." He sighed with a sound of relief. "I usually try to find someone to make convetsation with, feel less out of place, but they all turn into the same people just trying to further their position." Not that some haven't been cute and fun in small amounts.

 

He bit his lip through a smirk with a thought. "I know its your party, but I hope they'll forgive me." Ezra gently pulled the princess to her feet and lead them into a walk outside. He looped their arms and hoped that he'd neither shame the princess nor bring suspicion by taking her somewhere more quiet and alone. Deep down he felt a little pained that he thought the beauty probably got overlooked, even as a twin, for her brother at such events. She had seemed startled by his attention thus far. It was horribly cute.

 

The prince thought about opening up about his own pressures, but feared he'd only come off as having his own motives to have her alone. "Is this your first time alone with a male... other than your brother of course?"

[Kotorichan]

Sage managed a shy smile at the kiss to his hand. This man was being so kind and gentle with him, it was really nice. The smile disappeared when he was pulled to his feet and his arm was taken. "Where are we going?" He asked softly.

 

When he was brought outside he looked around nervously. Was it really okay for him to be alone with Ezra like this? Maybe he should go back inside. He glanced up at the prince, lightly biting his lip. Ezra didn't seem to be like someone bad, maybe it was okay just for a little bit. When the prince spoke it made him jump a little as he was pulled from his thoughts.

 

"Oh, um... I've been alone with my father too... But no one else" Sage's cheeks flushed softly. It just made him even more aware that they were alone. "Um... Was there something you wanted to d-do out here?" He didn't know what else to say. Being out here was making him feel so nervous and confused. Maybe it really was best if he went back inside as soon as possible.

[SapphireD910]

Ezra tried very hard to suppress the smile to the stuttered question. Normally he might find himself having a bit more mischievous sort of fun, but Sage was too nervous for anything like that. At least for the time being he'd more likely scare her, or goodness forbid gain the attention of other party-goers and be removed. He did imagine how nice it might be to kiss her. He might be able to have that by the end of the evening. She was the princess for the party, and it was likely people were distantly watching from somewhere or were searching for her. The only lady who might take any consideration away from her would be if her brother managed to announce an engagement tonight.

 

"I just wanted to get away, I thought you might feel the same. Since you seemed very uncomfortable inside." He casually sat down on some steps looking out into a beautiful courtyard and garden. "I imagine that they're trying to find someone for your brother right? I mean birthday parties are one thing, but it seems a lot of the guests are rather young and... unmarried." He gave the princess a look. He wouldn't press, but he imagined her family was trying to set both their children up, just like his was. "It makes me feel like livestock honestly. Except a bull doesn't have to show off and lead the cows and be friendly with the neighboring pigs. I don't think...." He laughed realizing how ridiculous he was sounding. "Not that I've been around many farmers or their animals."

 

He sighed as though getting a good full breath of fresh air. "This is your cue to realize you're with a fool trying too hard to charm you and out of pity you take up the conversation a little more or at least shut me up." He smiled, but his eyes were still very taken with Sage's beauty, making him keep his hands close to avoid temptation to touch her. He wasn't a lecherous person, but he was used to young maidens who encouraged his touch, and he could tell Sage was different. But that wasn't a bad thing. In it's own way it excited and intrigued him. "Unless you're looking for a fool. I've heard I might make a better fool than a prince by some."

[Kotorichan]

Sage carefully sat down next to him, listening to his words. His cheeks flushed a deep shade of red as Ezra admitted to trying to charm him. He looked up at the prince with wide eyes. "C-charm me? I don't entirely understand why you want to do such a thing..." He clasped his hands in his lap, trying to resist the urge to fidget.

 

"I... I just mean that I don't exactly have much to offer as far as elevating your status..." His gaze dropped to the floor, trying to hide his sadness. "That's why no one really bothers to speak with me at these events. I don't have a kingdom to give and I'm not anything special as far as looks or personality."

 

"Ah...." He took a deep breath and forced himself to smile up at Ezra. "I apologize, I'm just babbling. I'm very grateful that you are taking the time to keep me company." It was ridiculous to talk about his problems with a strange man. Sage was just so used to only being alone with Samuel that he had immediately started talking as if he was with his brother. It seemed as though he was far more of a fool than Ezra.

[SapphireD910]

"My family just hopes to have me married some day, I think they worry I'm a lost cause. But they strangely have no eyes on any particular kingdom for other gains. Least not anymore. Again, I may be a lost cause." He smiled softly at her, feeling confident she was receiving similar pressures, but decided to tease the subject. "But if I'm your first man to keep your company, and for such a time without interruption, then your family must be quite open. I'm certain they'd have someone batting me away rather than encouraging my pursuit or simply leaving us alone." He kept looking forward to the courtyard, a slight flush running across his cheeks. He was in danger of overstepping with Sage. There was just something about her that he desired to hold and protect, and at this very moment make happy.

 

"I just hope someday I can live with and love someone who does so in return, accepting all of me. Having met you princess I feel hope... that you shall find such companionship." He suddenly felt very warm, even with a cool breeze sweeping over them occasionally. "I'm sure they're near serving dinner. I should return you before they hunt me down." He chuckled at his dramatics. "Purhaps..." he paused nervously, having never really done such a thing before, least not of his own accord. "Perhaps you would accept me as a suitor and let me earn your favor?" He lowered his seat on the steps and lowed his head to Sage.

[Kotorichan]

Sage's eyes grew even wider at the prince's suggestion. A suitor? Someone who was actually interested in him? Sage had always thought that his only suitors would be completely desperate princes or old perverts who just wanted someone young. But Ezra actually seemed very sweet. Of course there was no telling how he might react to Sage's secret, but until then he could be around someone nice.

 

"I..." He looked away, cheeks bright red. "T-that would make me very happy..." His voice was even more soft and shy than before. "O-of course I can't formally accept your request, you would have to ask my father for permission. But since he is too ill to be here tonight, you would have to ask my brother..."

 

He lightly bit his lip. It was known that the twin's father had been sick for the past few years, and it was only getting worse. Sage hated to think about how close his father was to death. He had to push the thoughts back out of his mind before turning back to Ezra.

[SapphireD910]

"I... I'm sorry to hear that. We have something in common." Sadness shown through his eyes before they suddenly shot open wide. He was not supposed to let anyone know, especially given his position and potential position at the progression of his father's state. He decided to move on from the topic. "I would hate to rush you. Honestly, I'm not all that sure what's come over me." His words suggested hesitation, but he kept his eyes on Sage to show he was serious, just aware that he was uncharacteristically eager. "Why don't we return before dinner is served and I will approach your brother after." He smiled at Sage, bringing her hand to his lips, admiring the way her cheeks took a rose tinge and she shied away from his attention. So gorgeous... yet so bashful, he thought his thoughts becoming clouded. He felt a bit of shame and yet couldn't suppress himself.

 

He rose to his feet, keeping her hand in his and helping the princess rise. Returning to the ballroom, he walked Sage back to where he brother was standing among a small group of guests. "Thank you for accompanying me princess." Turning to the prince he bowed low. "Thank you for having me your highness. Your home is quite charming and lovely." He spoke of their home, but his words applied more to his views of the princess. With a final smile to Sage he left and mixed in with the other guests.

 

Not too long after dinner was announced and guests were directed to predetermined seating. The meal was huge, the product of what must have been a large hunt and plentiful harvest to serve so many at once. Most people paid no thought to such details, but Ezra couldn't help it, his mother raised him differently than most of his prestige. Honestly, since leaving the company of the princess he returned to feeling mildly out of place. He found himself ignored at his table among a few older men and one of the men's daughters who appeared to have eyes on Sage's brother Samuel, hot that Ezra really minded. He in turn watched Sage from nearly across the room, contemplating if he had been too caught up and rash in his offering to the princess. Why was he so taken with her above all other maidens he'd ever encountered?

[Kotorichan]

"I'm sorry that you can relate to that..." Sage said softly. He didn't know much about foreign affairs so he had no idea that it was a secret that Ezra's father was ill. "Ah, and you really haven't rushed me at all." He smiled, cheeks red, as the man kissed his hand again. "Thank you" He rose to his feet gracefully and followed Ezra to Samuel.

 

Samuel thanked the other prince politely, but it was clear that he didn't fully trust Ezra. He hated the idea of giving Sage to someone he barely knew, but he also knew that it was inevitable.

 

Sage sat by Samuel's side during their meal. Although he was mostly ignored. Everyone wanted to gain favor with the crown prince. The country was practically worthless during times of war, but it had an abundance of natural resources which made them a valued trading partner. It was also a generally peaceful and wealthy country, so any princess that caught Samuel's eye would be set for the rest of her life.

 

This all meant that Sage was only acknowledged by his brother during the dinner. He really wanted to tell his twin about Ezra and how sweet the man had been, but no wasn't the time for it. Instead he just stayed quiet and are politely. At some point he saw Ezra across the room and their eyes met for a moment. His cheeks went meant an he quickly looked away. Although he wasn't sure why something so simple had made him flustered.

[SapphireD910]

Ezra let out a soft sound at Sage's bashful behavior as their eyes met across the room. He started to feel that there was some unnatural force causing him to feel so attracted to the princess, like no girl he'd ever been smitten with before. He did feel some doubts to what he was doing, watching her with her brother, however, he still found himself smiling thinking of holding her hand and the nervous way his attentions were still received.

 

The petite form of the princess appeared even further swallowed up in hair, jewels and the gown since returning to the side of Samuel. Ezra listened to many people around him speak of the twins, purplexed, intrigued, and others sounded almost repulsed for numerous reasons, feeling the two were oddly connected and rumoring the two may have no courtships because they were involved with one another. He wanted to put them in their places for going on in their gossip right under the roof of the prince and princess, but such talk made no real difference. Still...

 

"Madame, come now, you don't want anyone of their house to hear you," he tried to keep an even tone. "They are one of the largest exporters of most raw goods. Why I'm certain even your lovely dress required their textiles, dyes... not to mention those jewels." Anyone who knew Ezra may have seen the color change in his eyes, but the few at the table had barely given him a second glace before he spoke. "In fact, if you maybe spread nicer things about her highness, I may be able to have her send a rare colored silk your way."

 

The woman seemed to pause, compldtely still as though a doll before return to coversation as though Ezra had said nothing. Though one would note that talks changed from the nasty rumors to the beauty of the hall, the wonderful meal, and who was in line for Prince Samuel's hand.

 

Ezra finished his meal quietly before being joined by his handlers before making his way to the royal twins. He once more bowed. "Princess, your highness." He had addressed Sage first but tried to take a very serious look before turning to Samuel. "Sir, I would like to offer you my gratitude to this lovely evening. I would also ask your permission as a suitor to the princess." His eyes tightened in anticipation of refusal.

[Kotorichan]

The question took Samuel off guard, he hadn't been expecting such a question so soon. His first instinct was to refuse, but he managed to stop himself from acting on it. He didn't want Sage to end up with someone who would hurt him. But one glance at Sage's blushing smile was enough to convince him to give this man a chance.

 

"You have my permission..." He finally conceded. "However I expect you to refrain from socializing with my sister in privacy. Such a thing would be extremely inappropriate. You should also keep in mind that in our country it is expected for a man to either propose or move on in under a month." His eyes narrowed slightly in a glare. "Also, I will not allow you to treat her with any sort of disrespect or hurt her in any manner, is that understood?"

 

Sage stood quietly to the side, his cheeks flushed and his eyes on the floor. He had already known that Samuel would be very protective, but was glad that he had at least approved. For a moment he fidgeted with his skirt before realizing what he was doing and stopping himself. Finally he raised his gaze to meet eyes with Ezra, trying to hide how happy he was.

[SapphireD910]

Ezra smiled almost too brightly for his age and rank upon hearing the prince give his permission, but his head was still tilted down in his bow. "Your grace, I will treat her with the utmost care. I'd expect no less of a brother, a caring one at least, to hold me to that." He raised his head with a calmer expression and turned his focus to Sage. "I can assure you. I have never taken on such a proposal before, nor do I expect to again. I will treat you only as becoming of a princess and future queen. If you find soon that you will have me that is."

 

He let his features become more serious turning back to Samuel. "If it pleases you I can return here and visit with the princess on a few occasions under the watch of whomever you decide for the next fortnight. Then, if she is fond of my company, I can show princess Sage my home, again sending whomever you wish to watch over her. Before the second fortnight ends I will either offer her a place with me in my kingdom, or a trip home but with a continued ally in my family." His eyes seemed to vibrate with a deep hue of green into almost shades of blue.

 

"Blessings onto you both on your day of birth. I will arrange to return in three days princess." He took her hand and though a part of him warned against it in front of her protective brother he pressed his lips to her knuckles, keeping his eyes on her, to watch her reaction, her blush. It caused a heavy beating of his heart. "It has been a lovely evening. But I must give my leave now." As he gave a final bow he turned to leave with his accompanying handlers, but he couldn't help but cast her one last dreamy look with a soft smile.

 

Ezra wished he knew what was so different about this princess to make him so infatuated. There were so many girls and young ladies through the years that got his attention, but Sage did something else to him. He cursed himself halfheartedly for the sinister thought that crossed his mind. Desires that he had no business pursuing before offering his marriage to the princess. Not unless he wanted the protective brother to wage war against him in the name of his sister's honor.

[Kotorichan]

Sage's face was bright red at the kiss, but his eyes sparkled with happiness. "I hope you have a safe journey home sir" He murmured, trying to stay proper. He couldn't say exactly why he was so smitten with the prince. Maybe he just wasn't used to being given so much attention, especially by a man. But that couldn't be it, it felt like so much more than just being flattered.

 

Samuel held his tongue, only moving a bit closer to his twin in a protective manner. "I expect to hear from you before you visit, and I shall decide what will be appropriate for your time together."

 

Sage felt like he would faint when he caught Ezra's last glance back at him, his heart was beating so fast.

 

The twins spent the next hour or so saying goodbye to the guests, and thanking them for their time. After all the guests had left they retired to their sitting room to talk about the evening. Sage immediately found himself telling his brother about how amazing Ezra. They had always talked to each other about everything so Sage didn't even think of keeping his feelings private. Samuel listened with a slight frown before finally speaking up.

 

"Do you think he'll be accepting of..." He trailed off, unable to say the secret out loud.

 

Sage's mood immediately dropped. "I don't know, it's impossible to tell isn't it? He just seems so kind, so even if he isn't accepting I hope that he won't do anything... Harmful" He leaned against his twin, closing his eyes. "It's the best we can hope for isn't it?"

[SapphireD910]

Ezra was very quiet on the trip home leting the sounds of the carrisge fill their travels home. He spent the whole thing staring out the window at the passing scenary. He seemed discontent, but still enthralled in his own thoughts. This wasn't unusual, but his companions could tell it was different.

 

"Sir, is there something of concern?" his servant Gerard asked as they got closer to the palace.

 

"No, not at all. In fact I may soon have great news," he announced with a soft and somber smile. He had been taken with Sage in a way very different than any maid or lady before. He imagined her cocoa skin flushed with a red hue. Her large eyes and soft eyes. He'd wished he'd gotten to touch her bare skin, possibly brush through her hair, all while staring into those eyes.

 

Upon arrival he noted several servants and attendants standing in wait. "What is this?" Gerard called in displeasure.

 

"Your highness..." a young woman began but her voice faltered.

 

Ezra could already tell that something was very wrong, and without hesitation lept from the carriage and past the servants. He bound several flights of stairs to his father's chambers. Inside his father laid pale and still.

[Kotorichan]

News of Ezra's father was slow to reach the twins, but when it did Sage felt his heart break. His own father had been ill for so many years, which only made his new love's loss more painful to him.

 

Samuel immediately sent out a message of condolence to Ezra, asking permission for himself and Sage to come and pay their respects. Although it was really just a way to ask if Sage could visit to comfort the prince. Sage was extremely distressed,it was terrible to be unable to know how exactly Ezra was dealing with the situation.

 

Even more rumors began to spread about the twins. Sage had begun to cling to his brother even more than usual, desperately awaiting any word from Ezra. The two would spend evenings together, privately talking. Sage only hoped that Ezra didn't hear all the rumors

[SapphireD910]

Ezra not long after coming to terms with his father's passing found himself wanting to go back in time and be in the company of Sage again, in happier moments of dancing and dinner. While he had anticipated the moment coming very soon, he had simply thought he had more time. Not that he and his father were particularly close, he sensed that he was just a formality at times; a necessary heir to a rather old ruler. He knew that his father had rejected a lot about his mother, she too a formality; a queen for a king. But Ezra always had more in common with his mother and neither of them seemed made for this life. He'd thought he'd have more time before having to come into his destined role.

 

The newly appointed king sat on the veranda of his personal chambers, refusing to change to his father's former chambers. His eyes were sore from overuse convincing everyone possible to leave him to his thoughts and that he was not going to address anyone. His gift and inheritance from his mother; a deeper ability of... persuasion to say the least. He'd only trusted news to travel to so few, not wanting anyone to get the wrong idea about the security of their kingdom. One of those being the twins, Samuel and Sage. Not only because he wanted to see Sage again, but because their courtship took on a new meaning and possible urgency now. He needed to be married and have a queen. These things were often so formal and arranged so carefully, but he was king now, and he wanted Sage, the only one to possibly say no being her family.

 

A part of him suspected that maybe she had her own tricks or secrets, as he'd truly never felt like this for anyone before, but he felt that just by being able to have the will to suspect that meant she'd used no tricks on him. He'd simply fallen for her very heavily and immediately. Some of his advisers and servants had started to whisper and warn him about their concerns about the prince and princess, but Ezra's eyes glowed and shifted and they were turned away with that talk as well.

 

Receiving condolences from the two, he immediately responded, welcoming them to his home. Ezra hoped that their quick correspondence was not eagerness at his current position, but sincere in offering comfort. He made special arrangements for guest chambers to be made up for as long either one wished to stay, hoping perhaps the princess may stay a bit longer. He took special note of the room she would be offered, having the bed made up of the softest fabrics and filling the room with fragrant flowers the morning of their expected arrival. The first day since he'd returned home that anyone had seen him smile.

[Kotorichan]

As soon as the message from Ezra arrived Sage and Samuel began to prepare for their trip to visit him. Samuel knew that Sage would want to stay as long as possible, so they had to make sure to pack enough. They also had to pack clothes appropriate for mourning and also clothes for the courting process.

 

Sage hadn't thought about it, but Samuel knew that this would mean Ezra needed a bride much sooner than he once thought. If nothing went wrong on this visit it might end with a proposal.The thought of that made Samuel worried, but he didn't mention it to Sage. It would be terrible if Ezra thought the visit was just to take advantage of the situation.

 

They arrived at Ezra's palace dressed in black, Samuel in a suit and Sage in a huge dress. Sage was wearing gloves again, this time black, and had strings of pearls in his hair and around his throat. He wanted to rush to the prince's side as soon as he saw him, but managed to restrain himself. Instead he curtsied in silence, allowing Samuel to step forward and speak.

 

"Your highness..." Samuel bowed to the other man. "Thank you for allowing us to come visit, we give our deepest condolences. If their is anything we can do to ease your pain, please tell me."

[SapphireD910]

Ezra's eyes grew slightly at the sight of Sage in her black gown and pearls. He felt slight shame at his admiration at such a time. What was it about her that caused these feelings and desires where Ezra could normally keep cool and calm? He was still dressing in blacks and grays through this mourning period, currently dressed in a black three-piece and gray shirt and stockings.

 

"Welcome your highnesses," Ezra greeted with a bow. "Thank you for your condolences and gifting me with your company so quickly, it... helps." He meant it sincerely, though it definitely applied more to his feelings towards Sage being of comfort. "Let me show you both around. I've made chambers ready for your stay," he held his arm out for Sage to take. He felt a chill of warmth and comfort at the feeling of the thin arm clasped with his.

 

He lead them up to the bedrooms first so that they could see as the servants placed their items. Upon opening their doors a sweet fragrance spilled into the hall. Taking in the smell reminded him of his thoughts and longing for Sage while it was being prepared under his direction.

 

"You both will be right next to one another, and I am only a few doors down. I'd actually prefer to assist you directly in any of your needs while you're here." He smiled directly at Sage. Looking at Samuel his demeanor became a little more serious. "I'm sure you're tired and hungry after the trip. "Theres a meal being prepared and I'll understand if you need to rest. If you're not too tired I'd like to walk you though the garden."

[Kotorichan]

Sage was happy to take the man's arm, but his gaze was still filled with worry. There was no doubt that Ezra would be hiding his sorrow to some degree, they probably still weren't close enough for the prince to fully relax around either of the twins. Sage wished he could ask how Ezra felt and tell him that everything would be okay, but that wouldn't be appropriate. Instead he just pressed as close as he could while still being proper.

 

A soft gasp escaped his lips when the doors to their rooms opened. "They're beautiful..." He breathed. His cheeks flushed and he covered his mouth with his free hand. It wasn't his place to speak without either of the men addressing him. "I-I apologize..." He murmured, his gaze dropping to the floor. How insensitive... Ezra was dealing with the death of his father and Sage was commenting on the state of the guestrooms.

 

Samuel glanced at his twin with a slight frown. He could tell how nervous Sage was, but he also knew how worried the princess had been about Ezra's well being. "I am a bit tired, but if Sage would like to see the garden then I would be happy to accompany you two."

 

"I-I would love to see the garden if you a-aren't too busy" Sage looked up at Ezra, his cheeks still red.

[SapphireD910]

"Arrangements are made and you two are the king's guests now, theres few things I would be too busy to fully welcome you over," he gave a polite smile to Samuel, but a gentle squeeze to Sage's hand. "I'll make it a short viewing now and a more indepth showing before your departure. You can rest in your chambers before dinner." He started to lead them off towards the courtyard. "I'm pleased you were happy with your chambers. I wanted the best of our flowers to welcome you with their aroma. Something different than the incense and flowers used in the ceremony." His voice trailed off as he continued to walk.

 

As they stepped through the grand hall of the main floor, a slightly bleaker tone overcame them as many of the servants cleaned and maintained the environment in silence, obviously still mourning in their own way. "Please, don't let this detract from your stay. I want you to feel comfortable, and see the best in my home and add to it with you presence." He gave Sage a side glance as they stepped through the doors to the garden.

 

Before them was a large garden full of an array of flowers surrounding a central pond and out beyond was a rather large hedge maze. He smiled thinking of being alone with Sage in the maze, being able to hide from the rest of the world in there. Then his thoughts shifted. "Don't worry, I wont lead you there. It was a gift to my mother, a romantic gesture from my father to his homesick bride." He could help but make the parallels between his parents and his own prospects now. "I've been told otherwise, but the story was he proposed to her right by the pond."