Moonlight

Elias frowned at Matthew's teasing remark, feeling a surge of jealousy. He shot back, "I don't need anyone's attention, especially not from someone who has nothing better to do than pester the King with his constant reports."

Matthew, undeterred, replied with a sly smile, "Ah, Elias, don't be so bitter. It's not my fault if the King values my input. Maybe you should try being more... indispensable."

Nery passed by the three, holding a container with Cashew nuts filled in it, then he stepped closer to the King, whispering, "Your Majesty, what're they fighting about?"

The King's gloved hand reached out and picked Cashews from Nery's container as he whispered back, "Apparently, they're fighting over my attention."

Nery chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement, "Ah, the usual competition, then," he replied in a hushed tone, "You do have a way of attracting attention, Your Majesty."

The King gave a wry smile, popping another cashew into his mouth, "It seems so," he said, glancing over at Elias and Matthew, who were still engaged in their playful banter, "Let's hope they don't make a habit of it."

Elias couldn't help but roll his eyes at Matthew's teasing remarks. He decided to play along, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he retorted, "Oh, Marquis, you flatter yourself too much. I don't need the King's attention that badly. Besides, I'm sure His Majesty can manage a meeting and help me with my studies simultaneously."

Matthew raised an eyebrow, his playful smile widening, "Is that so?" he replied, his tone dripping with sarcasm, "Well, I suppose you're right. After all, who am I to come between a diligent student and his gracious King?"

He chuckled softly and then added, "But do remember, Elias, I was here first."

The King popped another cashew in his mouth, "This is what happens when a white fox and a golden retriever meet." 

Nery replied with a hum.

Elias laughed at the King's comment, finding it both humorous and apt, "Well, you know what they say," he chimed in, "opposites attract. And it seems I've attracted quite the charming Marquis."

Matthew feigned a dramatic swoon, clutching his heart in mock astonishment, "Oh, Elias, you flatter me so," he teased, his tone dripping with theatricality, "But don't think you can steal the King away from me that easily."

The King coughed as he munched the cashew.

Elias flashed a mischievous grin at Matthew, his eyes sparkling with good-natured rivalry, "Oh, Marquis, you underestimate my determination," he retorted with a sly wink, "I'll have you know that I have quite a few tricks up my sleeve."

Matthew raised an eyebrow in the mock challenge, "Is that so, dear Elias? Well, I do love a good competition. Just remember, you're going up against someone who's spent years mastering the art of charming the uncharmable."

As the banter continued between Elias, Matthew, and the King, a sudden hush fell over the group. Their jovial mood instantly dissipated as they sensed the approach of a formidable presence.

Queen Luxe, with her regal bearing and intimidating aura, stood before them. Her sharp gaze swept over the four, and her voice cut through the tension, "What's going on here?"

Ugh, it's the shrewish woman. Elias thought.

The King exchanged a brief, uneasy glance with Elias and Matthew. Matthew was the one who spoke first, "We were just having a friendly discussion, Your Highness."

Luxe's eyes narrowed as she assessed the situation, her suspicion evident. She had always been wary of Elias and Matthew, sensing that they held a special place in the King's heart. It was a source of jealousy and unease for her, which she concealed beneath a veneer of royal composure.

"Dinner is prepared." She replied coldly.

The tension in the air thickened as Luxe's gaze lingered on Elias and Matthew for a moment longer before she turned away, her elegant posture never faltering. With a curt nod, she swept out of the room, her presence leaving a palpable chill behind.

Once she was out of earshot, Elias couldn't help but mutter under his breath, "Why does she always have to ruin everything?"

Matthew rolled his eyes, "That's just her way, Elias. We're used to it."

The King cleared his throat. The fox and the golden retriever immediately shut their mouths.

Seated at the dining table, the atmosphere remained tense as the King, Queen Luxe, Matthew, and Elias shared the evening meal. The Queen and Matthew were both seated on either side of the King, taking turns serving him with various dishes and engaging in polite conversation.

Elias couldn't help but feel a growing sense of jealousy and frustration. He had always been an outsider in the palace, and moments like this only emphasized that fact. As he watched the King receiving food from both the Queen and Matthew, a pang of longing and resentment washed over him.

He took a deep breath, trying to quell his emotions, but it was becoming increasingly difficult. He knew that his feelings for the King were unrequited, and he had come to terms with that. However, seeing the King's attention divided between the Queen and Matthew was a bitter reminder of the divide between their worlds.

Throughout the dinner, Elias kept his gaze fixed on his plate, doing his best to mask his emotions. He couldn't afford to let his jealousy get the best of him, not in the presence of the Queen and other palace staff, and so, he could only swallow his jealousy, and frustration. 

Elias couldn't shake the feeling of the Queen's gaze on him, even as he tried to keep his attention focused on his plate. Her occasional glances in his direction made him increasingly uneasy, and he couldn't help but wonder what she might be thinking or planning. What might she want from him?

Once finally the dinner ended, the Queen was the first to stand up and retreat to her chambers. It seems that the rumors in the relationship between the King and Queen are true, she never spoke throughout the dinner, she just put some dishes on the King's plate while he and the Marquis are chattering about something.

Nevertheless, Elias couldn't care less. 

Elias stood up, so did the King. While Matthew remained seated, writing something on the paper, He approached the King and tugged on the King's hem. "Your Majesty," He called softly, "Are you really going to help me tonight? It's fine if you can't come."

The King turned his attention to Elias, his gaze softening as he listened to his request. He knew that Elias had been looking forward to their study session, and he didn't want to disappoint him.

"Of course, Elias," he replied, his voice warm and reassuring, "I promised to help you with your studies, and I intend to keep that promise. We'll make time for it tonight."

Elias's face brightened at the King's words, a grateful smile forming on his lips. Despite the challenges and complexities of palace life, moments like these, when he could spend time with the King and receive his guidance, were precious to him.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Elias said sincerely, his eyes reflecting his appreciation, "I'll be in my study when you're ready to join me." If he'd be a dog hybrid, Elias's tail would be wagging visibly.

The King couldn't resist but pat Elias's head again.

The King's affectionate gesture brought a warm smile to Elias's face. He appreciated the King's kindness and support more than words could express. With a final pat, the King nodded to Elias and watched as he left the dining hall.

Once Elias had departed, the King turned his attention back to Matthew, who had finished writing his notes. 

"Has everything already settled, Maximino?" The King asked. 

Matthew nodded as he pushed back his half-framed glasses, "Yes, Your Majesty, all of the things you've mentioned earlier at the Leise Pavillion are now written in the paper, and I'll send them to my investigators."

The King nodded in approval, appreciating Matthew's efficiency and dedication to their work, "Good, good," he said, his eyes reflecting gratitude, "Your diligence is truly invaluable, Maximino. I rely on your insights greatly."

Matthew gave a small, genuine smile, his half-lidded eyes softening with appreciation, "I'm here to serve, Your Majesty. Your trust means everything to me."

Matthew stood up as they walked through the corridors of the palace, the moonlight cast through the large windows while the gentle breeze of the night swept pass across them. It was a peaceful, serene and yet romantic moment

As they strolled through the moonlit corridors, the atmosphere around them seemed to soften. The palace, usually bustling with activity during the day, was now bathed in tranquility. The soft glow of the moon highlighted the intricate details of the architecture, casting enchanting shadows that danced across the walls.

The King and Matthew walked side by side, their steps perfectly synchronized. The difference in their height and age was evident and Matthew has the greater height, but it was a contrast that seemed to complement their companionship. The Marquis's long, silver hair caught the moonlight, giving him an almost ethereal appearance.

At the brief silence, Matthew spoke with a charismatic smirk, "Your Majesty, would you spend a little quality time with your concubine for a bit?" 

The King stammered a bit, "Qualit-ty time? What do you mean… specifically?"

Matthew chuckled softly at the King's flustered response. His voice was filled with playful teasing as he replied, "Oh, you know, just a little quiet time away from the palace, perhaps a midnight stroll through the palace gardens. Unless, of course, Your Majesty has other ideas in mind?" His half-lidded eyes held a mischievous glint as he awaited the King's response.

It's been a while since they had this kind of moment, so he wanted to seize it as he had the opportunity.

The redness in the King's ear deepened, "I'll have to help Elias with his studies later, right after I see you off."

As they reached the grand entrance, Matthew grabbed the King's waist firmly as he gently pushed him to the near wall. 

Matthew's actions caught the King by surprise, and he leaned against the wall with a startled expression. His heart raced at the unexpected intimacy, and he could feel a warm blush spreading across his cheeks, "Matthew," he whispered, his voice barely above a breath, "what are you doing?"

Leaning in, Matthew's voice dropped to a low, intimate tone, his warm breath reaching the side of the King's neck, "Your Majesty, may I have a little reward?"

The King's breath hitched as Matthew's lips brushed against his earlobe, sending shivers down his spine.The King had barely engaged in such an intimate act, he didn't know what to do—or react, his voice came out in a barely audible whisper, "Reward? What kind of reward do you have in mind, Marquis?"

Matthew closed his eyes, taking in the distinct fragrance of the King. His nose twitching, inhaling the sweet musk that emanated from the King's neck. He nuzzled his nose closer, exhaling a stream of hot breath on the sensitive area below the King's ear.

Softly, Matthew planted a light kiss on the King's neck, his mouth tracing the contours of his skin. The King's breath quickened as he shut his eyes. Slowly, Matthew continued to trail kisses along the King's neck and shoulders, his lips and tongue exploring every inch of the King's skin.

The King's breath hitched in response to Matthew's kisses on his neck. He tilted his head to the side, craving more of Matthew's tender attention. His body was a swirl of desire, every nerve in his body tingling at the light touch of Matthew's lips and tongue on his skin. His heart pounded in his chest, his mind in a state of euphoric chaos.

The King's hands crept to Matthew's silver hair, gripping it firmly as the Marquis's explorations continued. He tilted his head further, the sensation of Matthew's mouth along his neck both euphoric and overwhelming.

Matthew could feel the King's hands on his hair, gripping it tightly as he continued to shower his kisses along the King's neck. An undeniable wave of satisfaction washed over him at seeing the King's response to his tender attention.

Matthew gently pressed his body against the King, holding his chin so that their faces were mere inches apart. Slowly, he let his tongue dart out, tracing a path along the King's jawline. The King's breath caught in his throat, his eyes fluttering closed as Matthew's kisses teased him.

Matthew's satisfaction grew as the King's squirm became more apparent.

"Maximino," The King gasped, "You know.. I still have to help Elias.."

Matthew promised to himself that he'll just shower the King with kisses, but he never thought that he wanted more as he continued.

"Of... of course, Your... Majesty." Matthew murmured between sips of breath, slowly releasing his grip on the King.

Matthew realized that the King's mind was elsewhere, focused on his duty to Elias. But Matthew's own desires knew no bounds, his mouth hungering to touch the King's lips. So he gave one last lingering kiss on the King's neck, his lips pressing against the warmth of his skin, and tasted its sweet perfume.

Matthew had to remind himself that he was in the presence of royalty, and he must show some restraint, or else, the King might avoid him, knowing that he didn't like being touched. Perhaps the King favored him tonight and let him do what he wanted for the reward.

Matthew reluctantly pulled away from the King, his mind in turmoil at the desire and restraint he was facing. The sensation of the King's skin on his lips and the sweet taste of his scent was tempting enough to make him want to lean back in. But he knew it wasn't the right time, or place, for him to do something scandalous.

As the King leaned against the wall, his face reddened, the collar of his shirt disheveled in an erotic way. Matthew's pulse quickened as he watched the King's reaction, his body trembling with anticipation. The King covered his lips as he started to steady his breathing, his eyes grew half lidded, as if he'd gone sleepy. 

"Ah, Your Majesty, Forgive me if I have gone too far." Matthew said.

The King's chest heaved with uneven breaths, his lips parting slightly as he tried to regain his composure, "No need to apologize," he whispered, his voice trembling, "I... I don't mind."

"Your Majesty, are you alright?" He asked.

The King nodded, his gaze still locked with Matthew's, a mix of desire and vulnerability in his eyes, "I'm... I'm fine," he replied, his voice soft and filled with a longing that he couldn't entirely hide. Ever since Matthew had taught him about sex education, his body seems to change.

"Can you walk?" Matthew asked again.

The King blinked, breaking the intense moment between them. He straightened his posture and cleared his throat, regaining his composure. "Yes, of course," he said, his voice back to its usual regal tone, "Thank you, Maximino, for your concern."

Matthew stepped back, giving the King some space, "If you ever need assistance, Your Majesty, you know where to find me," he said with a playful wink before turning away, his long silver hair swaying gently as he walked down the corridor. The King watched him go, his heart still racing from the encounter.

The King wanted to ask about why he didn't kiss him through his lips, but his neck and his collarbone? Was Matthew afraid of something? 

The question lingered in the King's mind as he watched Matthew disappear down the corridor. His heart felt heavy with a mix of desire, confusion, and longing. But he knew better than to press the issue. Matthew was a complex man, and their relationship was already a delicate balance of friendship, duty, and unspoken desire.

With a sigh, the King turned and made his way to the study where Elias was waiting. He couldn't afford to let his thoughts linger on such matters, not when he had promised to help his young charge with his studies.

The King reached Elias's study and gently knocked on the door. He could feel a slight nervousness fluttering in his chest. While he had spent time with Elias and tutored him before, it had never felt quite like this – not with the lingering memories of his intimate encounter with Matthew still fresh in his mind.

"May I come in, Elias?" he asked, his voice soft but tinged with warmth.

The door before him opened and Elias's blond hair caught his sight, then he looked a bit down and caught Elias's ocean eyes. "Your Majesty!" Elias said.

Elias stepped aside, allowing the King to enter the study. The room was cozy, illuminated by the soft glow of a few strategically placed candles. Books lined the shelves, and a desk was neatly organized with parchment and quills.

"Thank you for coming, Your Majesty," Elias said, his tone appreciative, "I could use some help with history, specifically the reign of King Alaric I and Queen Lysandra, I find it quite challenging."

The King nodded, walking over to the desk and taking a seat, "Of course, Elias. Let's start with King Alaric I and Queen Lysandra's reign. What aspects of it are you finding difficult to grasp?"

NAPPEN'S EXTRA:

Nappen: Yes, late upload again.. my whole body was about to collapse and sleep yesterday, so I don't have much energy to upload. I'm sorry, I'm late again..