Chapter Text
“Although this one is the newer gargoyle of the college, the method used to sculpt it is from the past century.” Before the statue of a winged creature on the wall, Malleus keeps a serene tone in his voice. “Look carefully, the details are more refined when compared to the gargoyles of the modern era.”
Beside him, Silver listens with attention.
However, a sudden tiredness causes the human boy's focus to disperse second by second. With his eyelids almost closing, all he can do is shake his head to escape the sleep trap.
As Silver crosses his arms he feels frustrated, thinking it's an unwelcome time for drowsiness to disturb him.
The fae prince is a man of few words, but he becomes eloquent when he talks about how fascinating gargoyles are, from its origin and symbolism to the appreciation of its carved forms.
Silver only desires to admire the gleam of enthusiasm in the greenish eyes a bit more, and to hear that deep voice, always pronounced with seriousness, become enthusiastic as he explains detail by detail.
Malleus seems so radiant about sharing something that makes him happy, that Silver doesn't intend to miss a single second of it. For his master, the young knight is determined to overcome his exhaustion.
However, before he knows it, his eyes are already closed as his head tumbles to the side.
“The artist—”
Draconia stops mid-sentence as he feels his beloved snuggled on his shoulder. It’s predictable that he sleeps in a situation like this.
“Silver, wake up.” The fae calls somehow stern.
“Ah!” The human boy wakes up in seconds, soon straightening his posture. “I’m sorry for the carelessness, my lord.”
“If watching the gargoyles is dull to you, just go ahead and say it.” A sigh escapes, his countenance strict. “I believe Lilia taught you to be honest with your own feelings.”
Malleus knows that Silver's drowsiness is uncontrollable on any occasion, yet it’s so fun to tease him just to get an adorable reaction.
“N-No!” The aurora eyes widen, slightly desperates. “My lord, I would never think that being at your side is tedious. Please forgive me if I offended you.”
The prince smiles internally, it’s irresistible how the young knight rushes to correct his mistake. So lovely
“Since you were so focused on our little stroll around the club, tell me what you learned about gargoyles today.”
Silver feels a blush spreading across his cheeks. The truth is he was more focused on Malleus himself than on the statues.
Despite his shame Silver’s gaze remains firm, never daring to look away in front of his master.
“Even if my lord explains to me for hours about gargoyles, I don't think I’ll be able to understand them that well. But escort you so many times through the club made me realize why Malleus-sama likes them so much.”
Draconia brings his forefinger to his chin, puzzled.
“Interesting. My attention is all yours, proceed.”
Silver scratches the back of his neck, formulating his sayings.
“How can I say... I feel that Malleus-sama identifies with the gargoyles. I remember that my lord taught me that their frightening appearance is on purpose, because the duty of gargoyles is to protect from evil spirits.” He tries to put the honesty that inhabits his heart in the form of words. “My lord is also feared for his intimidating appearance and his power, but people don't see how kind he can be.”
Silver remembers the afraid whispers through the halls, the hurried steps to avoid crossing the same path as the fae. He thinks of how unfair it’s that his master is judged without even knowing him.
“When my Father and Sebek were captured by the ghost bride, my lord wanted to rescue them even though your hands were tied, and on Halloween you also protected Yuu and Grim from those Magicam Monsters. I wish everyone could see how protective Malleus-sama is like a gargoyle.” Finally, he smiles in a tender way.
The prince can only stare at him with wide eyes. He tries to say something, but his words are trapped in his throat.
“My lord? Did I say something wrong?” Silver's countenance turns worried. “I'm sorry, perhaps I—”
Malleus interrupts as he touches the beautiful face before him. Gloved fingers caress the skin in a delicate gesture, and greenish eyes meet those of aurora. A serene look, but one that carries the weight of words that can't be uttered.
“Ah, my sweet child.” He represses a 'fool' from the sentence. “If there’s a gargoyle between you and me, it’s certainly you. The gargoyle who watches over me.”
Malleus wraps his beloved knight's waist, a tight embrace. Silver reaches out to give back the gesture, but he hesitates. Demonstrations of affection like this are reserved for private moments.
Nevertheless, if Draconia wishes to cuddle him without caring about others' glances, the human boy will not deny his dear master's desire. Finally he returns the caress, his own warmth mingling with Malleus' as he snuggles against his chest.
“Silver, swear to your future king here and now.” The fae squeezes him a bit more tighter. “That you will remain my gargoyle until the end.”
The prince's voice is so close, and yet sounds so distant, as if speaking to a future that only he can see. Silver is uncertain if he understands what lies behind such words, but an order was entrusted to him.
If it’s to protect his precious master, Silver will continue to sharpen the blade of his sword.
“I promise I’ll become a gargoyle that drives away evil spirits from Malleus-sama.”