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"A royal ball?"
"That is right, young Master".
"For what purpose should there be a royal ball to be held at the peaceful Kingdom of Xianzhou?" Caelus voiced out once more, his fingers softly caressed the purple petals of the flowers that grew in the garden.
"The King of Xianzhou, King Jing Yuan, is looking for a suitor for the prince. Your sister, Princess Stelle, has been requested to attend the ball and you, young master, are ordered by her Highness to accompany the princess".
It was truly a beautiful day today. The sky was a vibrant blue and pure white clouds filled the skies. The sun shone brightly, casting down it's heavenly-like halo onto the royal palace of the Stellaron Kingdom. A wonderful day could not go wasted as such and Caelus found it to be perfect to take a stroll in the palace's garden. The royal maids had prepared tea and biscuits not too far despite his protest that he was not hungry for evening tea. Caelus had tried to dismiss them but failed to do so as the royal maids only flashed him a smile, insistent serving him evening tea.
Caelus turned around to meet Blade's eyes. Blade is his royal bodyguard; a loyal, strong and quiet man he is. Blade turned out to be refugee of Xianzhou back then and was ordered to be executed. However, with the grace of your majesty -Queen Kafka of the Stellaron Kingdom, Caelus and Stelle's mother- Blade had managed to escape from Xianzhou. It was not an easy feat as war broke out immediately between the two kingdoms. With the intelligent guidance of Queen Kafka, the two kingdoms had managed to settle the feud with a truce; The Kingdom of Xianzhou shall spare Blade's life but he will no longer belong under the Xianzhou while in return, the Kingdom of Stellaron is to provide aid and support to the Xianzhou whenever and wherever possible.
At first, Caelus was against the deal. It was obvious even to a child that the agreement is one-sided with Xianzhou gaining all the benefits. Caelus wanted to help Blade too but the agreement was not a fair deal. He remembers both him and Stelle protesting against his mother, demanding for an explanation but Kafka only smiled softly at them and said, 'It is part of Elio's scripture to allow our kingdom to flourish'.
Elio was Kafka's advisor and, well... Caelus and Stelle didn't like him much. Throughout the years of living within the palace since he was a kid until now, not once had Caelus seen Elio's face. He was told that Elio locks himself up in one of the castle rooms, never leaving the room even since before Caelus and Stelle were born.
Either way, their conversation ended at that and soon, the day came at which the peace treaty was made. Both Xianzhou and Stellaron sent their representatives in place of the King of Xianzhou and the Queen of Stellaron. Caelus was chosen to represent his mother along with Silver Wolf, the royal family's most trusted knight, as his guard. Caelus still vividly remembers the day he first step foot at Xianzhou.
The harbour was a beautiful sight to behold with many ships entering and leaving the port. The hustle and bustle of the harbour, especially during the night, still vividly played in his mind. The market was excellent as well with the kingdom producing the finest and freshest produce and not to mention, the people were very friendly. However, what made that visit the most memorable was on the day of the treaty itself. Caelus was guided to the Xianzhou Palace by the royal guards and indeed, the palace itself was as magnificent as the view of the harbour. The palace shone as if it was made of the finest and purest gold, embedded with the rarest gems and crystals. Distracted, Caelus had not realized that they had stopped in front of the door of the palace until he heard Silver Wolf's voice calling him out respectfully. After that, Caelus remembers being brought into the castle's meeting room and at the table sat the most, if not, one of the most stunning man he had ever seen in his entire life.
Long black hair, smooth and well-kept, swept to one side and green teal eyes shone like emeralds under the sunlight. His eyes were sharp and pointed, decorated with a stroke of red eyeliner that surprisingly made the green shone even more. His lips were a beautiful shade of pink and the shell of his ears were decorated with the finest earrings made of jade. He rested his head against his hand, looking tired and almost bored. Although stunning, the man had a rather cold and intimidating look in his eyes and Caelus felt himself unconsciously gulped. This must be the Prince of Xianzhou, Caelus had thought back then. As soon as he entered, the Xianzhou Prince made eye contact with him before he gently recollected himself. He gestured with his right hand towards Caelus.
"Good morning, you must be Prince Caelus of Stellaron Kingdom, it is Xianzhou's pleasure to be able to host your stay here".
"Good morning to you too, Prince Dan Heng of Xianzhou. I must say, Xianzhou does offer the finest views and produce. I've enjoyed my stay here greatly", Caelus slightly bowed and Sliverwolf, who was by his side, bowed along as well. Caelus had to make sure he was careful with his words and actions. Sure, they were here to sign a peace treaty but they are still considered to be within the grounds of another land and it would not do him or Silver wolf any good if he accidentally offended the Xianzhou Prince somehow.
"I am glad to here that and, please, raise your heads, Prince Caelus and fellow royal knight", Dan Heng ordered. Caelus raised his head and so did Silver wolf behind him. When Caelus looked up, he noticed that this time, Dan Heng was properly making eye contact with him and Caelus almost wavered. Dan Heng's gaze was strong and fierce and also somewhat unnerving. It was as if he could see through Caelus, read him like an open book, like he knew all of his secrets. There was silence for a moment before Dan Heng gestured at the seat opposite of him.
"Please, do sit, Prince Caelus".
Caelus wasn't sure if he heard his tone correctly but it almost had an... amused tone to it, like he was teasing Caelus for having an unfixed cowlick in his hair. Caelus carefully glanced back at the prince in front of him but was only met with blank eyes staring back at him. Caelus must have been hallucinating.
"Let us begin the session, shall we?" Dan Heng announced before snapping his fingers, eyes never leaving Caelus' and Caelus found that unnerving. A royal guard approaches Dan Heng with a silver tray in his hands and placed a parchment in front of Dan Heng. Dan Heng then gestured the guard and the guard walked closer towards the Stellaron Prince before he presented the tray to Caelus with a bow. Caelus nodded at the guard as a form of affirmation and the guard placed another parchment in front of him before backing away. Caelus eyed the paper in front of him.
"Please, do verify the contents of the treaty and take your time, I do not mind".
Caelus' eyes trailed up towards the other prince and noticed that Dan Heng had his elbows up on the table with his chin resting on his clasped hands. There was no mistaking it, the prince was definitely smirking at him. Was he flirting with Caelus or challenging him? Caelus couldn't tell but his pride told him that the Xianzhou's Prince is trying to get on his nerves. Caelus felt his eyes twitched a little but smiled nonetheless.
"Of course, do excuse me".
Caelus' eyes traced the words that laid out on the parchment before him. He wanted to make sure he got all the contents right and that the agreements were as discussed by his mother and the King of Xianzhou down to the 'T'. The content explained about Blade and his freedom as he will no longer be under trial for execution nor will he be a citizen of Xianzhou but as part of the people of Stellaron Kingdom. Blade will also be working under the royal family of Stellaron Kingdom as a form of surveillance to ensure that Blade truly repents for his past actions within the Xianzhou. In turn for sparing Blade's life, the Stellaron Kingdom is to provide aid and support to the Xianzhou in any way possible, be it in peace or in war.
As Caelus continued to carefully read through the contents, he couldn't help but notice the strong gaze that settled on his face. At this point, the young prince in front of him really wasn't trying to hide it. Dan Heng was very obviously ogling him and in broad daylight with three guards in the room. Caelus slowly let out a shaky sigh under his breath, trying his best to shake off the feeling but his slight demeanor was caught by Dan Heng's eyes and that man had the audacity to smirk even more. Caelus was so close to rolling his eyes and glaring at the prince in front of him but he dutifully held himself back and honed his attention to the parchment in his hands.
Dan Heng was, honestly speaking, enjoying the view in front of him. Dan Heng's gaze fell on his hair first, as if appreciating the way his hair naturally falls and frames his face perfectly, the way the sunshine gave him a gold hue, looking absolutely ethereal. Dan Heng's gaze went to his eyes that lit up like flaming ambers, no jewel within this palace could match the shade of gold of the eyes of the Stellaron Prince. Those eyes could put every gem out there to shame. Dan Heng's eyes then continued on to the other's lips. Caelus' lips was pink and plump. Caelus unknowingly brought a hand up to his lip, silently muttering to himself as he browsed through the words and Dan Heng bit the inside of his cheek hard as he, too, wanted to know how those lips felt like. His eyes then continued to observe Caelus' hands. His fingers are long, slim and delicate but also looked strong and firm. Dan Heng ever so wonders how it would feel like to grab hold of it. He trained his gaze down the body of the man in front of him. For a man, Caelus had a thin waist and narrow shoulders. Dan Heng was also not ashamed to admit that he did notice Caelus' plump thighs the moment he walked into the room. Dan Heng slowly traced his gaze up and down the prince before him
Dan Heng then noticed the man slightly squirmed in his seat and he had to hold back a chuckle.
The Stellaron Prince was absolutely adorable.
Caelus cleared his throat.
"I've read through the contents and, indeed, everything is as it was stated by the Queen".
"I'm glad to hear that. Shall we then?" Dan Heng grabbed the quill and effortlessly signed the treaty. Caelus followed in suit. They exchanged their parchment and signed once more before both of them stood up.
"May the Kingdom of Xianzhou and Stellaron flourish together", Caelus announced with a small smile and Dan Heng nodded at that.
"May it be so".
Thinking that the treaty was done, Caelus excused himself from the presence of Dan Heng but was stopped by the man himself.
"Prince Caelus, do you have plans for tonight?"
"Pardon?"
Dan Heng gracefully stride towards him, the long clothing at his back dragging behind him.
"Having the only prince from the neighbouring land of Stellaron visit Xianzhou? It is only appropriate for me to act as a host to ensure that you have the full experience of of our land".
"Thank you for the offer, Prince Dan Heng but I mustn't take up more of your time. I would not want to interfere with your daily duties, my Mother would not allow me to cause such disturbances".
"Please, Prince Caelus. I do insist. I trust that I can be an excellent guide for you. After all, I am but the prince. I am sure my father would agree with me to show you around Xianzhou a little more and I also believe that I, too, will be enjoying myself from this activity of ours".
Caelus eyed the man in front of him. Dan Heng was persistent and Caelus knew he had no choice but to accept his offer lest he accidentally offend the prince.
"Well then, I hope you do not mind me taking up your time for today".
"The pleasure is all mine. Oh and if possible", Dan Heng turned to look at his own royal guards and Silver Wolf who stood behind Caelus.
"I would like it if we are alone".
It wasn't a request, it was an order, though a silent one. The royal guards of Xianzhou gave a salute before leaving the room. Silver Wolf blinked once, twice before looking at Caelus and Caelus could see the panic in her eyes. If she agreed, that would mean she'd be abandoning her post, her duty, to guard Caelus while they stayed in Xianzhou and that's not to mention that Caelus may be put in harm's way without a guard to protect him. On the other hand, if she denied Dan Heng, it would an act of disrespect and disgrace towards the prince and he wasn't just any prince, he was the Prince of Xianzhou, the kingdom's pride. Caelus turned to her and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"You are dismissed for now, Silver Wolf".
"But, Prince Caelus-"
"I know what you're thinking. It will be fine. Even if Mother finds out about this, you would not be in trouble as it was I who ordered you to leave".
Silver Wolf was hesitant before Caelus continued while making eye contact with Dan Heng with a challenging smirk.
"Besides, I believe Prince Dan Heng would ensure that I would be walking around safely".
Dan Heng smirked back at him.
"I... Understood, Prince Caelus. Please, do stay safe".
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Dan Heng walked Caelus down the harbour while explaining to Caelus about their history, internal affairs and current projects taking place within Xianzhou. Caelus listened intently, eager to understand and learn more about the background of Xianzhou and what made them prosper to this extent. As Caelus trailed behind the prince, he caught something fragrant in the air that made him turn around. There was a tiny food stall that seemed to be ran by an old lady who was busy making... something. From afar, it looked like a white blob in her skillful hands. There was a stack of what Caelus knows to be bamboo steamers by her side.
"You seem to be rather interested in that. Are you hungry, Prince Caelus?"
Caelus jumped at the voice near his ear. He whipped his head around and found Dan Heng innocently staring at him, as if he didn't just press his lips onto Caelus' ears. Caelus rubbed his ears that now felt warm to the touch. He recomposed himself.
"I- uh, yes. I am feeling a little bit famished. I can't help but wonder what she's making. It smells rather lovely".
Dan Heng eyed him for a while before grabbing at his wrist, practically dragging the silver-head prince behind him despite his protests.
"Good afternoon, ma'am", Dan Heng politely greeted, his royalty demeanor taking over his brash personality. The old woman was startled as she quickly did a 90-degree bow.
"Y-Young Prince! What a pleasant surprise, I- What can this old lady do for you?"
"Please, do raise your head. I am merely here for a stroll with an esteemed guest", Dan Heng gestured at Caelus and the latter lower his head a little with a hand on his chest.
"Greetings and a lovely day to you, ma'am. I am Prince Caelus of the Stellaron Kingdom. It is a pleasure to be meeting you on this fine day".
At his introduction, the poor old woman panicked even more. Having the Xianzhou Prince visiting her shop was one thing but to have another prince from the neighbouring kingdom? She might just pass out. Once the two princes made sure that the old woman would not, in fact, pass out, Dan Heng asked for two steamed buns before paying her double the normal amount. The old lady was insistent that it was on the house but Dan Heng shook his head and declined her offer.
"After all, I am trying to impress him", he whispered not so discretely to her. Caelus raised an eyebrow at him.
The steam buns, as Dan Heng called it, was probably one of the best things Caelus had ever had in his entire life. He basically devoured the whole thing within seconds and Dan Heng could only laugh at how Caelus resembled a chipmunk in that state. After having their fill, they continued to walk down the streets of Xianzhou.
"How have you been enjoying your stay in Xianzhou so far? If I am correct, this is your second day here", Dan Heng asked.
"As expected, this place is as beautiful as everyone says it is. Xianzhou is very lively, not once do the days go by without an occasion going on. I find that I enjoy the hustle and bustle environment here".
"I am glad to hear that", Dan Heng replied back. As they continued walking, Caelus can't help but think that the prince was a little... odd. It's as if he's putting up a front for other people, his true personality hidden behind closed doors within himself. His smile never reached his eyes and his eyes looked exhausted. Now that Caelus thought about it, back then, the prince looked bored and tired too in the meeting room while he waited for Caelus. As Caelus was lost in his thoughts, he heard loud cheering and music from a distance.
"What's that?" Caelus asked, pointing at the large group of people that crowded the main plaza. Dan Heng followed his gaze.
"Well, let's find out".
Dan Heng dragged him once more and at this point, Caelus was used to it. The cheering and music got louder and louder. A person from the crowd seemed to have noticed their presence and immediately jumped back in shock.
"Y-young Prince!"
Soon, the entire crowd took note of their presence and stared at them in awe. Caelus, despite being a prince, was not used to the amount of attention he's currently receiving. Dan Heng raised his hand, a strained smile on his face. Caelus took note of that smile.
"Please, do not fret. I am only here for a walk with a guest. I'm sure you've heard about the announcement of Prince Caelus' arrival to Xianzhou. I am only showing him around. May I ask, what is this all about?"
"A-ah, today is the Mid Autumn Festival, young Prince! We're currently holding a public dance performance with an instrumental group. Anyone can join in!" An old man replied nervously but excitement could be seen in his eyes.
Ah, how could Dan Heng forget, today was the Mid Autumn Festival. No wonder his Father, Jing Yuan, was so insistent that they hung lanterns around the palace. He totally forgot.
"Mid Autumn Festival, that sounds interesting", Caelus voiced out with an excited smile as he took in the bright colours that adorned the plaza. There were colourful lanterns hanging all over the place and many stalls selling traditional desserts, accessories and toys. It was so festive and Caelus, himself, felt eager to join.
"W-would you like to join us?" The old man asked Caelus. Caelus looked back, surprised.
"Oh, that would be lovely but I don't know how to dance-"
"No need to think about the details and just have fun!" An old lady called out to him boldly. Caelus looked at Dan Heng and the latter gestured at him to join with a small smile. It was a genuine one, Caelus notes. Caelus broke out into a wild smile.
"Okay, but don't blame me if I ruin the performance!" Caelus casually added with a chuckle, catching the common folks by surprise before they, too, joyfully laughed with him. The song started and it was an upbeat song with a quick tempo. The use of the traditional instruments were mixed together with a modern twist in music. Dan Heng watch as an elderly woman grabbed Caelus by his wrist and quickly spun him around. Caelus stumbled around with laughter and the crowd cheering got louder. One of the dance tradition was that there would be a constant switch of dance partners mid dance. Caelus switched from one dance partner to another, slowly getting used to the tempo. Caelus skipped along with a young girl this time, carrying her up in the air as she broke into giggles. Caelus switched to another energetic elderly lady and Dan Heng recognized her as the one who called out to Caelus from earlier. She twirled Caelus around a few times before she dramatically dipped Caelus. Caelus went along with it and raised a leg in the air and Dan Heng felt his lips stretched into a smile and a laugh left his lips.
Just as Caelus was about to switch partners, Dan Heng stepped in, offering his hand to Caelus with a bow and a playful smile.
"May we?"
Caelus stifled a laugh before taking his hand.
"Ah, Prince Charming, we may".
With that, the two of them danced and skipped to the upbeat music. The crowds cheering got louder as the two of them spun and clapped along with the music together with the rest of the folks. Caelus laughed loudly when an older woman whipped Dan Heng away so that she could have a dance with him and Dan Heng broke out into the widest smile Caelus had ever seen today.
Caelus wasn't sure how much time passed but before he knew it, it was now evening. Caelus cheered together with the crowd as the sixth song finally ended and he was exhausted. Caelus left the performance as soon as the seventh song started. He dropped to the side of the pavement with a content sigh while panting tiredly. Dan Heng apparently followed him out and dropped beside him.
"That was so fun!" Caelus exclaimed. Dan Heng panted beside him with a small smile.
"Yeah, it was".
"I'm gonna ask Mother to let me travel to Xianzhou for every Mid Autumn Festival".
"Hm... Does that mean I get to see you more often?"
"You get to see me once a year, you're that excited?" Caelus joked while nudging him. Caelus wasn't sure when they've dropped the royalty treatment towards each other but he finds that he doesn't mind it all. If anything, Caelus felt butterflies in his stomach at the thought of Dan Heng feeling comfortable enough to talk casually to him. What Caelus didn't know, however, was that Dan Heng had been staring at him the entire time. During the dance until now. Dan Heng's gaze was soft on him and so was the smile on his lips. Dan Heng got up.
"Wait here for me".
Caelus watch as Dan Heng headed towards a small stall by the road side. He saw Dan Heng picking out something before he paid the owner and walked back towards him. When Dan Heng arrived, he sat back down beside Caelus.
"Close your eyes", he told.
"Why?"
Dan Heng playfully rolled his eyes.
"Just close them, Don't worry, I won't kiss you. Unless you want me too".
Caelus choked and his face went red. He immediately shut his eyes closed.
"Wow, you want me to kiss you that bad?" Dan Heng teased.
"Don't make me kick you".
Dan Heng laughed before going silent. Caelus felt hands reaching for his right earlobe and a soft click was heard.
"Hold these", Dan Heng softly whispered and Caelus was suddenly hyperaware of the fact that Dan Heng was really close to his ear. With his eyes closed, it felt as if his senses had heightened. He could feel Dan Heng's breathing against his ear and the soft and delicate touches as he fiddled with something in his hands. Then he felt Dan Heng back away silently. Caelus waited as he heard Dan Heng shuffling around with his own hands. Caelus wasn't quite sure what was going on but he was nervous.
"There, you can open your eyes now".
Caelus opened his eyes and in his hand, he saw one of his own topaz stud that he had been wearing for the entire day. Dan Heng held up a pocket mirror in his hand for Caelus to use and there Caelus saw a jade earring hanging from his right ear lobe. Caelus' eyes widen. It was simple but it was beautiful.
"That's really pretty but Dan Heng, don't earrings come in pairs? Where's the other one?"
Dan Heng was silent for a bit before he subtly turned his head, as if he wanted Caelus to check for himself.
The other earring was hanging from Dan Heng's right ear lobe. Caelus allowed the information to enter his head. He slowly processed it. He felt all the blood in his body rush up to his face.
"So that you have something to remember me by when you go back", Dan Heng quietly muttered under his breath. Caelus felt as if time stopped. It was silent between them but it was a comfortable one. then, Dan Heng stood up.
"...I have to go. Father would want to celebrate Mid Autumn Festival with me and I can't be late. Besides, I've taken up too much of your time and your royal knight might be worried", Dan Heng weakly chuckled with reluctance. Caelus hid the growing disappointment in his chest, sad that their time together had come to an end.
"Look, there she is right now", Dan Heng pointed and Caelus saw Silver Wolf standing from a far, patiently waiting for him. It was like reality kicked in and Caelus frowned slightly. Dan Heng poked his cheek.
"Don't miss me too much", Dan Heng lightly teased. Caelus huffed.
"I should be saying that to you. Don't miss ME too much", Caelus emphasized with a small pout.
"... I'll definitely miss you".
"W-wait... What was that-" Caelus looked up but Dan Heng was already walking away.
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"How was your day, young Master?" Silver Wolf lightly teased and Caelus shoved her around, blush decorating his cheeks. Silver Wolf was one of the few who Caelus felt comfortable talking with and right now, he was glad that she was the one accompanying him here.
"You seem to be enjoying your time in Xianzhou a lot", Silver Wolf commented as they walked back to the inn they were staying at. Caelus sighed at her.
"Whatever you're thinking, it's not what it looks like".
"I've said nothing, young Master. Whatever YOU'RE thinking, young Master, is what's important".
Caelus chased her back to their inn and she jutted her out. Caelus sighed once more as he retreated back into his room. Silver Wolf stopped him before he could close the door.
"We're leaving tomorrow at 10 in the morning. You should get some rest, young Master. You're going to need it with how much energy you've spent today".
"Understood. You get some rest too, Silver Wolf".
She nodded at him before retreating back into her room.
That night, Caelus couldn't sleep. He laid in his bed, wide awake. His hand fiddled with the jade earring from time to time and as the memories from earlier played back in his mind. The radiant smile from Dan Heng as they danced to the music, his teasing tone whenever Caelus did something embarrassing and his careful and delicate touches as he fixed Caelus' hair. It happened hours ago and yet, the sensation still felt fresh on his skin. Caelus sat up and stared at the old grandfather opposite of him. It was currently three in the morning and Caelus couldn't feel himself getting tired any time soon. He got up, put on his hooded fur cloak over his nightwear and boots before leaving his room.
If Silver Wolf found out that he was going out alone with supervision, she would surely go ballistic on him so he made sure to quietly sneak past Silver Wolf's room that was beside his. Once he got pass, he snuck out of the inn. Immediately, the cold night air of Xianzhou hit him in the face and shivered. He pulled the cloak tighter around his body before walking down the road. The night in Xianzhou was the opposite of its daytime. The roads were silent and only the sounds of crickets could be heard. The inn that they were staying at was a little close to the main plaza and after some thought, Caelus decided to head towards the plaza itself.
The plaza was silent, the festivities from earlier long ended but the props and decorations were still left hanging. The noisy atmosphere from before was now dark and quiet with only the street lamps illuminating the way. Caelus slowly walked in the darkness before he came to a halt.
Caelus wasn't sure if he was hallucinating but at the main plaza in front of him, there stood a tall figure in a black Hanfu -if Caelus remembers correctly from Dan Heng's explanation this morning- and hair tied back into a ponytail. The figure was waltzing in the middle of the plaza alone. Now, Caelus should've been afraid. That was the logical thing to feel. A random person in black appearing in a dead silent plaza, dancing with themselves with no music whatsoever was creepy at best and Caelus being alone right now should've kicked in his fight-or-flight response. However, Caelus observed the way the figure dancing under the moonlight. It was graceful, almost fluid-like, as they twirled at the center of the plaza. Their hands were in the position as if they were holding someone in their arms with one hand in mid-air while the other was at a lower level similar to holding the waist of a person. The person stepped from one side to another and even without any music, the waltz was so delicate and captivating that Caelus could hear the tune in his head.
It was only when the figure turned in his direction that Caelus noticed that the stranger was wearing a white masquerade-looking mask that covered their eyes and a face veil that covered the lower half of their face. The stranger also seemed to have noticed him as they backed away in shock and a little bit of fear. Caelus stuttered.
"S-Sorry! For, uh, intruding..." Caelus trailed as he slowly approached the stranger. As the light from the lamp post hit his own face, Caelus heard the stranger's breath hitched as they tried to run away. Caelus quickly called out again.
"Wait!"
The figure stopped moving but didn't turn around to face him. Caelus felt disappointed.
"Uhm, your dance... You're good. Really good, actually! I think you might just be better than me and I've been trained to waltz for years. You were... you looked stunning earlier. I couldn't keep my eyes off", Caelus nervously chuckled, keeping a safe distance between himself and the stranger in front of him. The person kept still, not replying. Caelus swallowed nervously.
"May I see you dance more...?" Caelus hesitantly asked. He noticed the figure in front of him jolted a little at his question. Caelus felt a sad smile growing on his face.
"Ah! I-it's okay if you won't allow it... I'll make my leave-"
"...two people".
Caelus' eyes widened. Did the stranger just talked to him? Caelus blinked at the man, staring at the white mask. The voice was a masculine voice, deep and rough but it was gentle. Caelus wanted to hear more of it.
"It takes two to dance".
The person, Caelus now notices that it was a man, bowed at him while offering his right hand.
"May we?"
Caelus felt a sense of familiarity and a small bubble of excitement grew within him as he took hold of the offering hand. The masked man looked surprised when Caelus accepted his invitation. Caelus smiled back.
"We may".
That seemed to knock the masked man out of his stupor. He gently grasped Caelus' hand in a way that made Caelus felt butterflies in his stomach. It was an oddly familiar feeling and Caelus wasn't sure why. The masked man guided them to the center of the plaza before turning to meet Caelus' gaze. The masked man brought his left hand and clasp it together with Caelus' right. Then, his right hand slowly travelled down to Caelus' torso but the hand remained slightly distant from its destination. Caelus eyed the gesture and softly pressed the stranger's hand onto his torso. The stranger's breath hitched. Caelus laughed a little.
"Come now, the proper way to waltz with your partner is to hold them here".
Caelus placed his own left hand on the stranger's shoulder and chuckled. The stranger's grip was now a little bit more firm on his torso and Caelus suddenly felt a little shy and giddy.
And so, they waltzed.
The stranger took one step forward and Caelus followed, one step back. Caelus took a step forward and the stranger stepped back. Then a turn. With each step, Caelus felt his body relaxed more and so did the stranger before him. A smile stretched on his lips as they danced under the moonlight. Even without music and despite meeting for the first time, they were surprisingly in sync.
An underarm twirl and Caelus spins with the guidance of the stranger's hand above his head. A step forward, a step backward. Another turn.
They were getting bolder now. What was once a slow pace of movements slowly started to speed up and their moves become more advanced, a chasse and a whisk being added to their basic routine. Caelus felt a himself smirk. Was his dance partner silently asking for a challenge. Caelus couldn't really see the man's face but he could tell that the man was smirking under the veil. Caelus let out a playful scoff. The stranger was challenging the wrong person.
Gripping onto the man's hand, Caelus guided them instead this time. A reverse turn followed by a double reverse spin. The stranger let out a surprised sound and Caelus triumphantly smiled. Caelus dragged the man with him and to a backward lock. Then a back whisk, a chasse and finally a natural spin turn. They resumed back to the basic steps. Caelus narrowed his eyes in mischief at the other. He was not backing down from a challenge. Caelus felt the grip on his torso tightened and he let out a small surprised yelp. The masked man let out a deep chuckle before he tugged at Caelus' hand.
The stranger went to an outside turn before going into a running cross. Caelus' eyes widened as he hurriedly matched the other's tempo. He heard the man laughed and Caelus was slightly offended. the masked man brought them into an open natural turn, an outside swivel then a reverse pivot. They twirled to a curved feather finish, a running finish and and finally a natural spin turn.
This man... was no newbie. Caelus soon realizes this. In fact, at some point, Caelus struggled to keep up with the other man's tempo but two could play at that game. Caelus sped up some more, catching the other off-guard. They spun and step forward in large lengths with the imaginary music playing in their heads somehow managing to keep them in tune. It was an amazing experience for Caelus. He had never felt so exhilarated while waltzing. The many times he had danced with Stelle had never been this fun or challenging before, much less with a stranger. Then again, him and Stelle only waltzed so that Kafka would get off their backs for not practicing.
Another underarm twirl and then the stranger dipped him in the gentlest way possible. They stilled for a moment and Caelus was finally aware of the heat that radiated from the man's arm that supported his body weight. From this angle, the moonlight shone brightly tonight as it curtained the masked man's face beautifully. Caelus was tempted to remove the mask and veil but held himself back. There were limits that he, himself, knew he should not trespass and if the stranger wanted to keep his identity hidden, Caelus did not mind.
Seconds felt like hours and the man finally lifted Caelus back up. Caelus unintentionally leaned more towards the stranger's body, relishing in the other's body warmth. The man let out a quiet gasp under the veil at the contact. Caelus felt the other's hold tighten around him. Caelus reluctantly pulled back a little before smiling once more.
"The show has just begun. Try to keep up, Mr. Masked Man".
"Back at you, young Intruder".
They waltzed some more and just when Caelus thought they were done, the man pulled him in, silently asking for another dance and Caelus accepted. For every invitation the man silently sent, Caelus accepted them all with a fluttering heart and before they knew it, the sun was slowly rising up. With a last underarm twirl, the masked man pulled Caelus close with his head resting on Caelus' shoulder.
The man's warmth felt familiar to Caelus yet he couldn't quite pinpoint who or why. The man slowly and reluctantly pulled back.
"This is our final dance. I must leave before sunrise".
Caelus felt his heart drop at that but he could not retort back as that statement was true for him as well.
"...Me too. I will be leaving Xianzhou today in the morning".
Silence hung in the air. The moon was slowly being replaced by the sun, signaling the start of a new day. Caelus felt the stranger's hands on his.
"...Will I be able to see you again?"
Caelus unknowingly let out a sad smile.
"If fate would allow us... Then I hope we will".
With that, the stranger finally let go of his hands before turning around. He stood still for a brief moment, as if deciding something. Caelus waited, he had hoped for something but he wasn't sure what. However, the stranger decided to go against whatever he had in mind and dashed away. Caelus stared at the spot where the man once stood before heaving a sigh. He should go too before Silver Wolf finds his bed empty. He would not hear the end of it. As he turned towards the opposite direction, he felt his foot step on something hard. He looked down and when he shifted his foot, his eyes widen.
A single jade earring.
Caelus' hand flew up to his right ear, panicking at the thought of Dan Heng's gift for him disappearing but then he froze. He still had his earring.
Caelus stroked his earlobe one more time and, indeed, the jade earring was still there, dangling in between his fingers. Caelus hesitantly picked up the earring on the ground. It was a match with his earring. Caelus felt his heart stopped.
There was no way Dan Heng could have dropped his earring from this evening after the Mid Autumn Festival. It would make no sense for Dan Heng to lose it immediately after attaching it onto himself which left Caelus down to a single conclusion.
Caelus looked back at the direction the stranger had left and a laugh of disbelief left his lips.
It had been months since that incident.
"Young Master Caelus?"
Caelus snapped out from his thought process and noticed Blade staring at him blankly but his eyes had a tint of worry. Caelus chuckled lightly.
"A royal ball for the Prince of Xianzhou to find his future life partner, am I hearing it correctly? I am to attend the ball as a guest to accompany my sister?"
"That is right, young Master Caelus".
Caelus felt his heart go bitter at the thought. He was only there as a guest, not as a possible candidate it seems. Of course, that is only logical. Caelus has heard news of King Jing Yuan's plans to step down from the throne and inherit it to his one and only son, the sole Prince of Xianzhou. The Prince needed a partner in order to solidify his future status as the next King of Xianzhou and his position to the throne. Caelus felt his stomach churn once more.
"...Young Master Caelus?" Blade called out once more. Caelus nodded.
"Hm, understood. When will the royal ball be held?"
"In two weeks, young Master. Her Highness insists that you have your measurements taken by the royal family's personal couturier. Princess Stelle is currently having her measurements taken to create her own personal dress".
"I understand. Thank you, Blade. Let us hurry there lest we add more workload to the couturier".
"Understood, young Master. I'm sure the royal family's couturier would appreciate that. I've heard from the royal maids that Princess Stelle is uhm... throwing a bit of a fuss at having her measurements taken. She seems rather reluctant to attend", Blade awkwardly informed. Caelus laughed at that. He knew why. His sister has her eyes on a certain pink-haired princess who hailed from the Astral Kingdom who also happens to be their best friend.
"Will Princess March be there as well?"
Blade nodded with a tired sigh. Caelus laughed once more. March 7th was a ball of energy. She once visited their kingdom and sapped all of the energy Blade had reserved, which wasn't a lot to begin with.
The royal ball... In his heart, Caelus desperately hopes for just one moment, he could experience that moment again.
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Two weeks passed by rather quickly. Caelus and Stelle had arrived the Xianzhou Kingdom a day earlier before the event. Silver Wolf and Blade accompanied them as their personal guards, though, Caelus had to go through some paperwork to allow Blade to step foot on Xianzhou again. It was a tough argument with one of the ministry members, Miss Yukong, who was adamant about not having Blade enter Xianzhou anymore after his exile. Caelus managed to convince her but that took him three days and he was exhausted. Blade tried to stop him, of course, but Caelus was a stubborn man. Blade had done a lot to try and fit in with the royal family and he was always patient with Caelus' needs. Caelus figured that it was the least he could do for him, to allow Blade to enjoy the view of Xianzhou once more.
They were now currently getting ready for the ball. The royal family's personal couturier had tailored matching clothes for both him and Stelle. Stelle wore a golden formal evening dress with black embroidery decorating the bottom half of the skirt. His sister looked beautiful in that dress with her hair tied up and decorated with diamonds. Caelus wore a royal suit that had a matching colour pallet as Stelle's but designed differently. A long black velvet coat with gold embroidery on the hems and and cuffs of the coat. A black vest underneath cupped his waist just right, displaying his body proportions. Underneath the vest was a ruffled-collar white shirt. The sleeves poked out from the cuffs of the coat and a gold pocket square can be seen on the left side of his coat.
"Caelus, are you done? The carriage is gonna be here any minute now", Stelle called from outside.
"In a minute!" He quickly replied. Caelus eyed the black box in his hands. He was stuck in a dilemma, contemplating whether if he should or should not. He took in a deep breath and opened it, deciding to quickly put them on before he had second thoughts. He looked at himself in the mirror, a pair of jade earrings can be seen dangling from his ears. It did, indeed, clashed with his outfit but he loved it even more nonetheless. Caelus stood up and left his room.
Stelle was waiting for him outside of the inn and her eyes lit up at the sight of her brother.
"Caelus, you look amazing!"
"I could say the same for you, Stelle".
Her eyes caught onto his ears.
"What's with the earrings?"
"Oh... Wanted to try something new, that's all. After all, we are in Xianzhou", Caelus replied, eyes darting around. Stelle looked at him weirdly before she broke out into a shocked expression that later transition into a smirk. Her brother was infatuated with someone, how did she not notice before?
But before she could interrogate him, Blade and Silver Wolf approached from a distance. Blade spoke.
"Prince Caelus, Princess Stelle, the carriage has arrived. Let us depart".
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As expected of Xianzhou, the royal ball dedicated to Prince Dan Heng was grand. The event that held in the royal palace could be seen from far away. The carriage arrived at the palace not long after and as Caelus got out first to help his sister down, a loud voice could be heard from afar.
"Caelus!! Stelle!!!"
The twins immediately got tackled by March 7th. Stelle's face lit up.
"March! How have you been?" Stelle asked and Caelus noticed the blush creeping up her cheeks. Caelus would've have cooed at her older sister having a crush but he didn't want to get a kick to his gut. His sister was a master in martial arts, after all.
"I've been great, Stelle. The two of you look amazing tonight!"
"You look amazing too, March", Caelus voiced out and it was true. March wore a baby blue ball gown that complemented her pink hair perfectly. March 7th twirled around in her dress.
"Of course I do, I made this dress myself after all!" March 7th triumphantly stated. The three of them entered the palace together and was awestruck. The giant diamond chandelier that hung from above shone brightly, lighting up the ballroom. The gold interior that decorated the room complimented the designs on the walls that were lined by numerous large arched windows. Classical music can be heard playing in the background and the room was crowded with people, some of them being familiar faces to Caelus. At the distance, there was Princess Bronya chatting along with Princess Seele. Well, more like flirting but Caelus digress. Beside Bronya was Gepard, her personal royal guard while Seele had Sampo by her side as hers. It was hilarious to see Gepard getting annoyed at Sampo's advances.
"Random question", Stelle called out. Caelus and March 7th turned to her.
"Not to be rude or anything, just curious but I expected the ball to cater more towards Xianzhou traditions. I thought we had to wear traditional Xianzhou clothing".
"Hmm, I heard Prince Dan Heng specifically wanted it to be this way", March 7th replied to her as they walked by the rows of tables filled with confectionaries. Caelus and Stelle had dismiss Blade and Silver Wolf when they arrived, telling them to enjoy themselves at the ball so the three of them were currently by themselves. Caelus' eyes scanned the room and soon noticed the the one person he had been looking for.
At the end of the ballroom, sitting high up on the throne was King Jing Yuan, smiling at the guests below. Yanqing, his royal guard, stood beside him dutifully. On Jing Yuan's right was Dan Heng, looking down at the ballroom with a bored expression adorning his face. His eyes were trained elsewhere, unlike Jing Yuan who made sure he made eye contact with each and every guest at least once. Caelus felt his heart skipped at the sight of Dan Heng. The man looked stunning tonight. He wore a white royal suit lined with gold embroidery, gold chains hanging from his pocket coat and a gold frilly tie made of lace. His long hair was tied into a ponytail and he donned symmetrical red eyeliner, unlike last time where he only had it on his left eye.
"Are you done ogling the prince?"
Caelus jumped at the voice by his ear. Stelle smiled at him mischievously and March 7th looked at him, shocked.
"So that's who you like", Stelle murmured thoughtfully. Caelus clamped her mouth shut in embarrassment with his hands. Stelle struggle with a hearty laugh.
"Hey, mind the lipstick!"
Caelus wanted to melt into a puddle right then and there. The cooing from both his sister and March 7th was not helping and his face only felt hotter with each passing second. He can't help it! Dan Heng looked so majestic over there with his uncaring look and Caelus could not help but flashback to the time during the Mid Autumn Festival and on the night itself...
"Oh my Aeons, he just got redder!" March 7th cackled loudly and Caelus wished he could drop dead then and there. Stelle looped her arms with March 7th and yelled, "Well, we'll leave you to it. Have fun, lover boy!", before walking away.
Caelus let out a sigh. He recomposed himself, cooling himself down and recollecting his thoughts. He couldn't be like this, he needed to be a good representative for Stellaron Kingdom. He did a little bit of greeting with royal families from other distant lands, making sure he made a good first impression on them. It wasn't long before he heard a the sound of bells ringing. The entire ballroom went silent before waltz music was then played in the background. Caelus watched nervously as Yanqing cleared his throat and loudly announced.
"The Prince of Xianzhou, Prince Dan Heng, shall now select a dance partner. I ask forth to the royal princesses to gather by the dais".
Immediately, a wave of royal princesses shuffled forward and bowed. Caelus scanned the group and saw Stelle and March 7th at the backend of the wave of princesses and he almost snorted. Almost.
The princesses offered their hands towards Dan Heng, who could only gaze at them reluctantly. He looked uncomfortable, Caelus notes. Dan Heng avoided his gaze with the many princesses waiting before him with their slightly outstretched palm. At that moment, Caelus sympathized with Dan Heng. That was one of the many disadvantages of being royalty, the spotlight is always on you. A few minutes had passed and Dan Heng showed no intention to move, to walk down the dais and accept any of the princesses' offer. Yanqing awkwardly side-eyed Dan Heng as the ballroom fell silent, waltz music still playing in the background. Jing Yuan, however, didn't seem too worried. He waited patiently for Dan Heng as he smiled at his guests.
Dan Heng awkwardly shifted his gaze once more and Caelus had enough. Before he could even think, Caelus found himself strutting forward towards the dais. The heels of his shoes clacked against the marble floor and soon, he felt the attention of the room shifted to him. Caelus was shaking, at least now he knows how Dan Heng felt just moments ago. Caelus walked past the princesses bowing down before Dan Heng before he stood still by the dais. His legs were jelly and his heart was beating so fast, Caelus was afraid it might jump out of his chest any moment soon. Whispers could be heard filling up the ballroom. Caelus looked up and made eye contact with Dan Heng who was shocked.
Dan Heng looked down at him with wide eyes, mouth falling slightly agape. Dan Heng slowly sat upright in his seat, his hands tightly gripping the arms of the throne he was sitting on. Caelus took in a deep breath before he raised his outstretched palm towards Dan Heng. Caelus didn't bow, he didn't need to. He looked at Dan Heng straight in the eye with a shaky smile. It was invitation but also a challenge. Caelus' mind flashback to that time where he waltzed under the moonlight with the 'stranger'.
'May we?' Caelus silently asked in his head. As if Dan Heng could read his mind, he immediately stood up and descended from his throne. He approached Caelus, counting the steps it took to reach the silver-head as to calm himself down. Dan Heng finally stood before Caelus and stared back at him before his eyes shifted to Caelus' ears. Finally, for the first time tonight, there was a smile on his face. One that stretched from one ear to another.
'We may', Dan Heng silently answered Caelus in his head as he took ahold of Caelus' outstretched hand. As they walked down the hall, the guests around them parted, giving them plenty of room in the middle.
Dan Heng held Caelus' right hand with his left while his right hand travelled down to Caelus' torso. Dan Heng held his torso with a rather enthusiastic firm grip and Caelus almost let a laugh slip as a memory from that night played back in his head. Caelus placed his left hand on his shoulder. With the beat of the song in the background, they waited for the right beat, the right tempo and as if on cue, they moved.
One step forward with a slide, one step backward and a slide, simple and easy just like that night. One step forward and one step back, a give-and-take motion. They moved around the ballroom in small squares and then Dan Heng brought Caelus in with an underarm twirl. They sped up, moving one tempo faster.
A chasse and a whisk, just like that night. Another underarm twirl was added and they move side-to-side once more. The smile on Dan Heng's lips turned into a smirk and Caelus challenged him back with a smug look. Simple basic routines turned into advanced moves within seconds.
The two moved in harmony. A hesitation change followed by an open Telemark and an open natural turn. A chasse roll to the right, a natural pivot and into a running weave. A sway and a right lunge entering into a natural check and ending with a travelling contra check. Their bodies moved in perfect sync, tuning out the voices around them. At this moment, they weren't in the ballroom but in the middle of the main plaza at three in the morning. One in nightwear while the other in a black Hanfu, identity unknown. There was no chandelier above them, only the moonlight that accompanied them as they danced their way through the night. Hours and hours of trying to one up each other. The cold windy night of Xianzhou blew at them, having only each other's body warmth as their source of heat.
Their movements sped up even more, bodies more in-tuned with each other. They entered into a natural turn with a quick running weave. Then a tumble turn followed by a sway. Together, they entered a natural pivot and to a hover and from a hover to promenade position. Into a weave they go followed by back check and finally into a pivot. Truly, Caelus could not get enough of this feeling, this thrilling sensation. The two waltz as if they were the only people in this room. They may not be physically but mentally they were alone in the plaza. Caelus' grip tightened onto Dan Heng's as they entered into another underarm twirl. The smile on their faces were wide but also smug. Nothing could be more beautiful than two people fighting to lead while also expressing their undying love for each other.
Once more, they entered into a natural spin turn followed by an overturned turning and into a promenade position. A wing and into another open Telemark before going back into a promenade position. They entered into a Hover Corte, an outside change, promenade position once more and finally into a chasse. Dan Heng dipped Caelus down, grip firm and strong and with a soft and loving gaze. Caelus stared back, heart beating fast as he smiled back. Caelus felt as if he was transported back to that night and Caelus knew Dan Heng thought the same too. Caelus felt like an idiot, no wonder that stranger felt so familiar back then. He should've known that it was none other than Dan Heng.
When Dan Heng lifted him back up from the dip, they silently stared at each other for a while before the whole room burst into roar of cheers and clapping. Both of them jumped in surprised, finally being brought back to reality. Caelus frantically looked around and, oh, Aeons was this embarrassing. He could see Stelle and March 7th from afar hollering, wiping away fake tears from their eyes. Seele was cackling her butt off while Bronya clapped along with a knowing smile. Gepard had his mouth hanging and Sampo whistled among the crowd. Heck, even Blade and Silver Wolf could be seen snickering from a distance. Aeons, Caelus hoped the floor would open up and eat him alive. He silently hid his face in Dan Heng's shoulder and the other had the decency to laugh at him. Sparring him his embarrassment, Dan Heng held his hands and dragged him away from the crowd and out of the ballroom. The ball resumed even after they left.
Their walk was silent as they walked deeper into the castle, the sound of the guests getting further and further away from them. Caelus could only follow after Dan Heng as his eyes were trained to his feet. Dan Heng brought them outside and Caelus soon noticed that they were in the palace gardens. Dan Heng guided him to a gazebo that sat at the center of the garden and they sat there silently. Dan Heng was the first to break the silence.
"You missed me that much that you'd attend the royal ball to watch me pick my future partner?"
Caelus looked at the other in disbelief.
"Excuse you- Why are you laughing?!"
Dan Heng snickered behind his hands as he rested his chin on his hand.
"I missed that look on your face, haven't seen it in while".
"Don't you try to sweet talk your way out of this! And who's missing whom now, hm?" Caelus smugly retorted.
"...Yeah, I missed you".
Caelus froze. That was not what he expected. He looked at Dan Heng, his eyes soft with a hint of longing. His lips stretched into a small smile and his ears, slightly red. Caelus felt his throat went dry. He could hear his own heartbeat in his ears.
"W-well, yeah! You should be, I'm irresistible", Caelus joked, laughing nervously. Dan Heng slipped his free hand into Caelus', humming.
"Yeah, you are".
Okay, fuck, abort mission. Caelus, abort mission! Caelus breathed heavily, eyes not meeting Dan Heng's. Caelus is pretty sure he looked like a tomato with all the blood in his body having travelled up to his face.
"How've you been?" Caelus asked, his eyes focusing on his hand holding Dan Heng's.
"Hm, tired. Learning how to take over a throne is hard".
Caelus nodded at that. That is true, Caelus has seen Stelle cramming all night, trying to understand the basics of running a kingdom. It was not a fun sight.
"...What about your future?" Caelus solemnly asked all of a sudden. Dan Heng stared at him.
"What do you mean?"
"The reason for this royal ball in the first place is for you to select a future partner, isn't it? How's that going for you?"
Dan Heng fell silent before he shifted his gaze forward, staring at nothing.
"Yeah, I've already made up my mind a long time ago, months to be precise. This ball was just a formality, nothing more".
Caelus felt his heart dropped a little at that. Dan Heng already had someone in my mind even before the ball was held. How long had Dan Heng known them? And since when? Was she pretty? How old was she? Can she even waltz? Is she-
"You're thinking too much, I can hear your thoughts", Dan Heng clicked his tongue while flicking Caelus' forehead. Caelus whined in pain and rubbed his forehead.
"So, who's that person?" Caelus reluctantly asked. Dan Heng kept silent for a while before answering.
"Someone who I've just met a few months ago. Never knew them but also felt like I've known them for my entire life. They're clumsy and love meat buns but they're also kind and cheerful. After they left, they never realized how much the people of Xianzhou adored them, wanting them to return for another visit again. Even I hoped they would visit again".
Caelus frowned and his jaw tightened. Is he stupid or does the person Dan Heng is currently describing sounded an awful lot like-
"And then on the night that I met them, I snuck out of the palace. I went to the main plaza and I wanted to let go of my worries, my responsibilities and fear of the future. So I waltzed in the middle of the plaza".
Oh.
"And while I was practicing, that person who was so nosy stalked me while I was dancing".
"Hey-"
"And when I noticed them, I asked for a dance and they accepted it. And all we did that night was waltzed until the sun rose".
Dan Heng met his gaze this time and Caelus stared back with wide eyes.
"Who do you think it is?" Dan Heng teasingly asked. Caelus pouted.
"I'm not answering that".
Dan Heng chuckled at his response. Caelus huffed.
"Dan Heng?"
"Hm?"
"Close your eyes".
"Why-"
"Just close them!"
There was a weird sense of deja vu but Dan Heng closed his eyes anyways. Caelus reached for his left ear and removed the jade earing. His hands reached for Dan Heng's right ear and removed the emerald earrings on his earlobe. He attached the jade earring onto his ear by its hook and adjusted it nicely. Caelus slowly backed away.
"There, you look perfect now. Don't ever lose it again".
Dan Heng opened his eyes and noticed the missing jade earring from Caelus' left ear. HIs hand went to his right ear and he smiled.
"Caelus, is this a new form of proposal now?"
Caelus choked.
"Wha- Why are you-! Aeons, Dan Heng, stop laughing!"
"I can't help it! It's funny".
Caelus huffed and was about to retort once more but before he could, soft lips pressed onto his and Caelus felt time stopped.
Everything went silent. Caelus felt like as if he had been struck by lightning and fireworks were going of in his head. Dan Heng's lips were soft and there was a hint of liquor behind it. Caelus closed his eyes shut and then Dan Heng moved. Caelus felt his heart explode, this was all too much for his poor heart in one day and he wasn't sure if he could take anymore of it. Then, he felt something soft shyly poking at the bottom of his lip. Caelus got the message and open his mouth a little.
The kiss went from sweet and innocent to filthy and sloppy within seconds. Dan Heng inserted his tongue into Caelus' mouth, exploring the warm wet cavern. A soft whimper left Caelus' lips as Dan Heng licked the roof of his mouth. Caelus encircled his arms around Dan Heng's neck, pulling him closer and Dan Heng happily obliged, pressing deeper into his mouth. Dan Heng roamed his hands around the Caelus' body and pressing a firm grip on his waist. A small moan could be heard and Dan Heng snapped.
Dan Heng pushed the other down onto the seat and hurriedly climb on top of the other. His knee was in between Caelus' thighs and when he pressed his leg upwards, a chorus of delicious moans could be heard and Dan Heng swallowed them all. Caelus eventually pulled back due to the lack of air. Dan Heng looked down, proud of his work. Caelus looked wrecked. Disheveled hair with tear-stained eyes, red lips with spit decorating the corner of his mouth and cute little pants leaving his mouth, and most importantly, the hard on he supported in the southern region of his body.
"Let's go to my room, shall we? We can't have the guests see you like this", Dan Heng whispered with a deep voice. Caelus shyly nodded.
Dan Heng picked him up bridal style. Caelus immediately wrapped his arms around the other's neck and hid his face in Dan Heng's chest. Dan Heng felt his chest tighten.
'Aeons, he is adorable', Dan Heng cheekily thought.
"Dan Heng?"
"Yeah?"
"...I love you".
And Aeons was Dan Heng so in love with him.
"I love you too".