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There once was an Elven Kingdom, budding with magic and lively people. However, the rulers of the kingdom held the highest levels of magic, and by far the most unique. Types of powers that people could only wish for, powers you would only hear about in fairy tales.

The Elven Prince, for example, had eyes of emeralds. They looked like literal jewels, and would glow a beautiful green when using his magic. However, they weren't just for show, as his eyes could see into people's souls.

The power he was known for was his ability to see if people were telling the truth, he could see their true intentions, he could see how they felt or thought about him. He could see their true desires.

And it drove him mad.

***

"Thank you for coming, Sir Tucker." The Elven Queen bowed.

The knight quickly got on one knee, bowing his head, "Please, Your Majesty, the pleasure is mine." He spoke with such precision, face blank and void of emotion.

The woman stood up straight and chuckled, "Rise, please." The knight stood, "I understand you are well-mannered and respected among the kingdoms. Our friends and allies sing your praises."

"It is only my duty."

"Regardless, I understand you are not from these parts. Yet, you still took my offer, to which I must thank you for."

He merely nodded.

"I'm sure you've heard of our son, correct?" The knight nodded, "He is most known for his power to see if someone is telling the truth or not. Because of his power, he has pushed away many people, scared of their betrayal and intentions. He has become extremely paranoid, which I understand. We have tried to help him as best as we can, but all great power has a weakness." She sighed, "He is unable to see if family is telling the truth, and so has started not trusting us. We have tried so much and things have only gotten worse." She looked into the knights hazel eyes, "Please, Sir Tucker, we have heard your tales. How you're able to stay calm even in the toughest of situations. We hope that by bringing you, someone not from our kingdom, with a calm demeanor, it may help our boy come back to his senses!"

The knight bowed, "I will do everything in my power to assist His Highness."

"Oh, thank you!" The queen cooed, a maid walking up to them. She turned to the maid, "Bring Sir Tucker to Tweek."

"Of course, Your Majesty. Follow me, Sir."

The knight, still dressed in his silver armor with his sword strapped to his side, bowed once more for the queen before following the maid. He remained calm, stoic even, as he was led up the stairs of the castle and to the prince's room.

Once outside a door, the maid knocked, "Your Highness?"

"GO AWAY!" A voice screamed in desperation.

She sighed and opened the door. Inside, the knight could see the state of disarray the prince seemingly lived in. Things were thrown around the room, papers and boxes scattered on the floor, untouched food and water piling on a nearby vanity, the vanity holding a broken mirror. The curtains were closed, barely a sliver of light peaking through. The bed was a mess, fluff from the pillows ripped and torn all over the bed, the sheets barely hanging on it.

The prince sat on the bed, wrapping himself in a blanket cocoon. Upon the door opening, he quickly fell and sat behind the bed, back turned towards the maid and knight.

"Your Highness, I have-"

"I SAID GO AWAY!" The prince yelled.

"Your Highness, please-"

"GO AWAY, GO AWAY, GO AWAY! I KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT ME, I KNOW WHAT YOU WISH TO SAY, I KNOW HOW YOU WISH TO TREAT ME, AND FOR THAT I DO NOT WANT YOU IN HERE! GO AWAY!"

The maid sighed, "I apologize, Sir, perhaps we should-"

The knight, without a word, stepped into the room, careful to avoid the mess.

"Sir Tucker, wait-"

The knight knelt beside the prince, close enough to see his shaking, but far enough to not scare him. The prince looked over and screamed, crawling away until his back hit the wall. In his scramble, the blanket cocoon fell off, revealing himself to the knight. He had pale skin, freckles decorating his face that looked like little stars, pale blonde hair, pointed ears like the other elves, and green emerald eyes. Truly emeralds, it looked like someone had taken an emerald gemstone and used that to make the prince's eyes. His blanket wrapped around most of his body, but it appeared he was still in his night shirt and pants.

Pretty.

"W-WHO ARE YOU?!" The prince demanded, eyes glowing, "W-WHAT'RE YOU DOING HERE?!"

The knight bowed his head, "My name is Craig Tucker, your highness. I am a knight who once served the Donovan royal family. But now, I am to serve you, as your personal knight."

"M-My personal knight?"

"Yes, your highness."

"...R-Raise your head, l-look at me!"

The knight did so without question. The prince looked over his features. Hazel eyes, raven black hair, tan skin, wearing his armor and sword. A calm, cool, collected, neutral face. No judgment, no annoyance, no... anything. Just neutral.

"...W-Who assigned you this role?" The prince asked, his eyes dimming.

"Her Majesty Manuela Tweak, your mother."

"Why?"

"She has said that your powers have caused you to fear betrayal and lies, leading to your paranoia." He shrugged, "She says she understands your fear and hopes my presence will help you."

The prince hesitantly crawled forward, green eyes wide in wonder. He blinked, staring at the knight. His eyes stared into the other's as if reading his very soul. Perhaps he was.

"You don't believe her." He stated as a fact, not a question.

The raven widened his eyes and quickly glanced away.

"Why not?"

He bit his bottom lip, "F-Forgive me, I am not at liberty to state my beliefs-"

"Y-YES YOU ARE-! I-I mean- ACK!" The prince pulled back, shaking, "I-I wish to know... w-what you believe."

The knight was hesitant.

"P-Please? I-Indulge me."

He hesitated a bit more before he nodded, "I believe she knows why you are paranoid and fearful, but I do not believe she fully understands it."

"What do you mean by that?" 

"I believe that, because she doesn't live with the constant knowledge of if someone is lying, if someone is thinking or planning on betraying them, if someone discreetly has ulterior motives, she cannot fully understand your fear." He looked at the prince with the upmost respect, "No one can, Your Highness. For that reason, I believe Her Majesty, to some extent, despises your power."

The prince leaned forward, eyes seeming to sparkle. He tilted his head and blinked, "You're... telling the truth. With no ulterior motives, no sense of betrayal..." He gave a small, hesitant, nervous smile, "C-Craig, was it?"

"Yes, Your Highness."

"Please, call me Tweek."

The raven shook his head quickly, "I-I mustn't, i-it's improper-"

"Please?"

He stared into the prince's eyes, his face calm and relaxed, unlike the panic and terror he had just saw moments ago.

He cleared his throat, "If that is what you wish... Tweek."

The blonde seemed to smile more.

Craig turned to the maid, "I will help His High-" (He saw Tweek frown a bit.) "Tweek get ready for the day." (Tweek smiled at the use of his name.) "Will you let her majesty know?"

"O-Of course! Right away!" The maid bowed, eyes wide in shock as she quickly shut the door and left the room.

"...Thank you."

Craig looked at the prince, who was playing with the ends of his blanket, "For what?"

"...You made her leave. I don't like her. But you had no reason to do that."

"You said you're able to see her intentions and feelings. I trust in your judgment."

"Why? You don't know me. I could be lying."

Craig looked at the prince, "...I don't need powers to be able to tell your intentions."

Tweek widened his eyes and smiled more, "...You're... different."

Craig knelt down, offering his hand, "Come, let's get you dressed and ready for the day."

"I-I can take care of it."

"Then allow me to clean your room. It's quite a mess."

Tweek blushed and looked away, "S-Sorry-"

"No need to apologize, Your- Tweek. I am here to help you."

Tweek hesitated but smiled, taking the other's hand and allowing himself to be pulled up.

***

The first couple weeks were a bit mess.

Craig would wake up and would be led to Tweek's room by a maid or butler. They would knock and open the door, Tweek immediately freaking out upon seeing the other person. Craig would send the maid or butler away before helping Tweek calm down. Eventually, Craig just asked to be the one to help Tweek, as there was no point in other people trying to help if it was just going to lead to Tweek having a panic attack.

From there, Craig would help him get ready for the day before asking if he wished to do something. Most often, Tweek did not, he preferred to stay in his room because of his anxiety and fear, but occasionally they would venture into the library so Tweek could pick up a book and read it in his room. 

"D-Do you wish to go outside?" Tweek asked one day.

"Pardon?"

"I-I've kinda, ugh, become a b-bit of a hermit..." Tweek fiddled with the page in his book, "B-But you've probably l-like the sun, r-right?"

"I'm not going anywhere without you."

"Ack, cause you're not permitted?"

Craig shook his head, "There's no enjoyment going alone. I'd prefer to sit and talk with you, if allowed."

Tweek widened his eyes and looked down at his book, silent.

"...You're so calm and... truthful."

"There's no point in being deceitful."

"Cause of my eyes?"

"No, because lying gets me nowhere." Tweek looked at him once more. Craig continued, "I am a knight with high regards. If I were to start lying and be found out, I would lose my status. With or without your eyes, it makes no sense. I'd lose more than I would gain, so there is no point."

Tweek blinked and smiled, "Thank you, Craig."

"For what?"

"For always being honest with me."

"Of course, Tweek."

The next day, Tweek asked Craig to take him outside.

"J-Just to the, um, g-garden! N-Not too far!"

"Of course." Craig offered his hand to Tweek.

The blonde hesitated before wrapping himself around Craig's arm. The knight widened his eyes before he relaxed himself, gently beginning to lead them outside.

Tweek groaned, covering his eyes, "So bright, ack!"

"We can go back inside-"

"N-No, no, no! I-I want to-!" He sighed, looking up at the raven with a soft smiled, "I-It's warm."

Craig looked down at him. He could see Tweek's emerald eyes twinkle, like the light from the sun hitting his eyes made them sparkle and reflective.

He smiled slightly.

Tweek's face dusted pink before he looked down, fidgeting.

Craig blinked and looked forward, "...Would you like to go to the garden?"

"Y-Yes please."

They spent the day in the garden. Tweek smiled, collecting flowers and making flower crowns, enjoying the warmth of the sun. Craig sat beside him on the bench, both enjoying the peacefulness of the outside. Birds chirped and flew around them, a nice breeze kept them cool, and the sun was bright enough to give them the necessary light and warmth.

"...Where did you learn to do that?"

Tweek looked at the raven and smiled, "M-Mother taught me when I-I was younger!"

Craig nodded, "Can you teach me?"

"You'll have to take off your gloves."

Craig did so. His hands were calloused with small scars from small cuts. Tweek put some flowers in his hands and began to show and teach him how to do so. The raven was struggling, however. He managed to somehow connect all the flowers together into what could barely be considered a crown. It was more of a birds' nest rather than a crown.

"You're not good at that." Tweek teased.

"Appears not." Craig cringed.

"That's okay." Tweek placed the crown he made on Craig's head, taking Craig's crown and placing it on his own with a smile, "I like it."

Craig's face turned a light red as he smiled slightly, "Good."

***

"You're a human... right?"

Craig looked at Tweek. The two had gone outside, the prince wanting to enjoy a small picnic. The knight had arranged for them to have a small lunch together, the cooks packing them a basket with sandwiches, chips, fruits, water, and the blanket. Tweek had picked the spot under a tree, so they were shaded nicely while also enjoying the warmth without sweating.

"I am."

"Is it weird for you?" Tweek asked, ears twitching, "To live among elves?"

"Not at all. I lived around other magical creatures my whole life."

"Really?"

Craig nodded, "The Donovan family are mages."

"Oh, right, you mentioned that when we first met." Tweek laid down on the blanket, looking up at the leaves and trees, "...Do you ever wish for magic, then?"

Craig thought about it before laying beside him, "...Sometimes, depending on the circumstance."

"What type of magic?"

"...Healing, mostly."

"Healing? Why?"

Craig was silent.

Tweek looked at him and could see the other's face had turned slightly sad, no longer the stoic, emotionless face he tried to portray.

"You don't have to explain."

"...I lost a lot of comrades on the battlefield."

"Craig-"

"It's alright, I don't mind telling you." He looked at the blonde, "I-If you permit me?"

Tweek nodded, "If you're comfortable, please."

Craig looked back up at the tree, "...I... don't remember a time before I took up the sword. I'm a human in a magical world, it's why I learned how to fight and defend myself. I've seen so many fall, so many strong humans and magical beings fall in front of me and... I'd be unable to do anything. It's one thing to use powers and magic to make yourself stronger or defend yourself, but... being able to heal a comrade who is bleeding in front of you?" He clenched his fists, "I feel that is more important." He looked at Tweek, "But healing magic is not easy to come by, right?"

Tweek nodded, "It's becoming rarer as time passes on, and it's not something you can learn from books."

Craig looked away, "I suppose it's pretty selfish of me then, huh? To want a rare power that few have had or even mastered."

"No, not at all." The blonde reached over, gently turning Craig to face him. Craig widened his eyes, seeing Tweek's eyes were glowing slight, "You've seen so much, so you would want a power that could benefit others, not necessarily yourself. Seems pretty selfless to me."

Craig felt his cheeks burn slightly, but he smiled, "...You have other powers, correct?"

"A-All Elves have elemental magic, the royal family just has the unique powers." Tweek explained, "But there is some magic you can only learn from books."

"Is that why you like to read so much?"

Tweek nodded, "Well, um, partially."

"What do you mean?"

"I-I'm looking into how to nullify magic."

Craig nodded, "To stop your eyes?"

Tweek nodded.

"Are you able to, like, stop it? Temporarily turn it off?"

The blonde chuckled, "If I could, I would, but no. Not yet. I-I'm not giving up though!"

"I'm sure you will find the answers you seek one day, Tweek." Craig smiled reassuringly.

Tweek blushed as he giggled, "Thank you, Craig! For everything. You're always so... truthful and... you have absolutely no judgement. No matter what."

"Who am I to judge? I'm just a knight."

"You're so much more than that!" Tweek argued, sitting up and looking down at the other, "You-! You're a person a-and you have wants and needs a-and yet you're always helping me with no... no anything! Y-You don't care if there's a reward, you don't treat this like a punishment, but y-you don't think of this as a job or chore or anything like that! I-It makes me... I-I don't know, normal a-and okay and..." He trailed off, "E-Everyone has their thoughts and opinions and... yours are never negative. A-At least when it comes to me..."

Craig sat up and gently took Tweek's hand in his, grabbing his palm and placing a gentle kiss to it, "It's truly an honor to stand by your side and help you get better. That's all I need."

Tweek blushed and smiled.

Craig smiled back.

"You have a nice smile." The prince said.

The knight turned red and looked away, embarrassed, earning a small chuckle from Tweek.

***

"Would you like to venture out into the market?" Craig asked as they sat on the prince's bed.

"T-The market?!" Tweek exclaimed, "T-There will be so many people and-"

"It's alright, Tweek. If you don't wish to go, we don't have to." The knight reassured.

"W-Why do you a-ask?"

"I heard among the other staff that the market is having some sort of festival. I figured it would be nice to go out, enjoy the scenery, perhaps purchase a couple sweets." Craig bowed his head, "However, again, I know this is a major step for you and if this is not something you wish to do, I will honor and respect your decision."

Tweek knew Craig was telling the truth, he never bother to lie or anything. But he also knew Craig wanted to check this market out, but would never go without Tweek. He hesitated, biting his bottom lip.

He gave a small nod, "O-Okay, we can go..."

"Please do not force yourself-"

"I-I want to try." Tweek exclaimed, "B-Because I-I know the e-exposure is good for me a-and will help me, b-but also... I-I want to try for you."

Craig's felt his face heat up, his hazel eyes quick to look away, "Y-You don't have to do anything for my sake, Your Highness..."

The prince chuckled, "I-I know! But I will!" He smiled, "Let me just change!"

"Of course."

Tweek stood and began to unbutton his white shirt. Craig's face heated up and looked away. However, as his hazel eyes began to dart, they caught something in the corner of his vision. Tweek had his back turned to him, and on his pale skin, there was pink scarred flesh on his back.

Stab wounds?

"EEK! C-CRAIG!"

The raven was confused until he realized his mistake.

On instinct, he had reached out and began to run his fingers across the scars.

The prince looked at him over his shoulder, face red, "W-What, uh, a-are you doing?"

Craig's face turned a bright red as he quickly turned around, clearing his throat to try to compose himself, "F-Forgive me, Y-Your Highness, I-I was out of line, I-I don't l-know what came over me-!"

"Hey, it's okay, Craig." Tweek gently grabbed Craig's shoulder, turning the other to face him.

The raven's face was red, looking at the blonde, who was smiling sheepishly. He looked over the prince's exposed chest, eyes widening. There were lost of small scars decorating his frame, scars that he shouldn't have.

Who hurt him?

Craig gently grabbed his arm, running his hands over the smaller scars, "...May I ask?"

"Kidnappers. Mercenaries. People who want to use me as ransom." The prince shrugged, "My eyes... they wanted the power for themselves..."

Craig's hazel eyes narrowed, "I wasn't aware."

"Mother and Father don't like to talk about it." Tweek explained, "My eyes are more of a curse than a blessing. I'm... I'm able to see people's true intentions, but if I come out and say someone is bad with no proof, it causes more issues." He frowned, "It wasn't until my final kidnapping did my parents realize that I was not just saying things, that this was my power."

"...How..." He stopped.

Tweek held Craig's arm, "...I was kidnapped three times. Once when I was about five, once when I was about eight or nine, and once when I was thirteen. I could tell who intended to hurt and kidnap me, but my parents thought I was making stuff up, and the people kept lying and it kept growing until I was taken and then I-I was surrounded by darkness and I-I-I was so a-scared and-"

"Tweek." Craig gently cupped his cheeks, having the other look up at him. He could see his emerald eyes had become darkened, cloudly, as if they were onyxes instead of emeralds, "It's okay. You're safe." He gently took one of Tweek's hands and placed a gentle kiss to his palm, "You will always be safe, as long as I'm here."

Tweek blushed and smiled, "I-I know."

Craig smiled down at him, "Nothing will ever happen to you, Tweek. I will ensure that."

"...This is the only time I'm happy with my eyes." Tweek put Craig's hand to his cheek, nuzzling into it, "I already know you're telling the truth without my power. But having it to ensure you're telling me the truth just... makes me happy."

Craig smiled, leaning his head against Tweek's. The two stood there, foreheads pressed against one another. They stood there, enjoying the silence and comfort from this simple action, enjoying one another's presence.

"...I-I have to get dressed."

"Ah-! A-Apologies!" Craig pulled back, turning around, "I-I'll wait for you outside! F-Forgive me!"

The knight quickly walked out of the room, shutting the door behind him before covering his face with his hands, blushing darkly. Meanwhile, Tweek held his red face in his hands, eyes wide as he processed what happened.

I CAN'T BELIEVE I JUST DID THAT!

***

Everything was going smoothly.

Until it wasn't.

Craig was helping Tweek get ready for a dinner party, gently brushing and trying to tame his messy hair. He wore a white blouse under an emerald green blazer, a green bow with a golden pendant around his neck, khaki dress pants, and black dress shoes. In his ears, there were golden earrings, matching the golden cufflinks on his blazer.

"It's a family party, ugggh!" Tweek fiddled with the ends off his cuffed sleeves, "M-Meaning I-I won't be able to tell o-o-or see if most p-people are lying a-a-and-"

"Tweek, it will be alright." Craig reassured, "I will be there if you need me. Just call my name."

"I-I'm just worried, ACK!" He faced the other, "W-What if s-someone tries to do something b-but I have no proof and so everyone thinks I'm c-crazy a-and you protect me a-and get in trouble because 'Tweek was being crazy' a-a-and-"

"Tweek." Craig gently put his hand on his shoulder, "Do I doubt you?"

"...No..."

"Have I ever doubted you?"

"...No."

"Will I ever doubt you?"

"No."

"Then trust me when I say that, even if you call my name over seeing a spider, I will be there in a heartbeat. I am here to serve and protect you." Craig reassured, "I have no intentions of taking back my promise."

Tweek's emerald eyes sparkled as he smiled, nodding, "Right..." He then looked over Craig, "...You're not wearing that, are you?"

Craig looked down at himself, "My suit of armor?"

"If you're attending the ball, you have to look nice!"

"I-I won't be attending as a guest-"

"Yes you will-! ACK! C-Come on!"

Tweek made Craig change. He wore a white button up shirt under a navy blue, starry blazer, matching the navy blue dress pants. He had black dress shoes, Tweek wrapping a black neck tie around his neck, tying and tucking it in.

"There." Tweek smiled, stepping back. He then handed Craig his sword, the knight hooking it with his belt, "Much better."

Craig looked away, a light red dusting his cheeks.

Tweek noticed and smiled, "You look nice."

"T-Thank you." He blushed more, embarrassed, "I am not used to such formal clothing..." 

"Guess I'll have to buy you some."

"Please don't."

"I'm going to pretend you lied to me just then so I can buy you nice things with no shame or guilt!"

"T-Tweek, it's not necessary-"

"But you look so nice! I have to!"

"Tweek?"

The two turned and the blonde grabbed Craig's arm, trying to hide as best as he could. Craig bowed his head at the man standing at the end of the hallway.

"Evening, Sir Tucker." The man approached.

"Good evening, Your Majesty."

"Hello Tweek."

"H-Hello Father..."

"It's good to see you in high spirits." The man smiled gently, "Seems we chose right with Sir Tucker here, huh?"

Tweek hugged Craig's arm more.

His father frowned a bit before he cleared his throat, "Well, it's about time everyone starts arriving. You should come down to the ballroom and prepare to greet everyone."

Tweek nodded.

The man frowned a bit more but left the two alone.

Tweek looked up at Craig, who had a blank, stoic, and monotone expression, "What do you think of him?"

Craig looked down at Tweek. He shrugged.

"Indulge me?"

The raven put a finger to his lip, Tweek nodded. He then leaned down, whispering, "I get the feeling he finds your paranoia and fear troublesome and doesn't wish to deal with it."

"That's how I feel! You must have my eyes." Tweek teased.

Craig let out a small chuckle before he cleared his throat, pulling back, trying to play it off.

"Did I get you to laugh?"

"Of course not, Your Highness. Clearing my throat."

"You're lying~!"

"I would never lie to you, Tweek."

The blonde smiled up at him, eyes twinkling, "I know."

Craig looked down and smiled back at him, "Come, let's get you to the party."

It started off well.

Craig stood back with the other knights, the only one dressed for the occasion. He felt a bit out of place, at least for a moment, until Tweek began occasionally walking up to him when he got nervous. It was clear why he was here, people were quick to realize he was Tweek's personal knight. The raven always helped calm and reassure him, so patient and gentle, Tweek always leaving with a smile on his face.

Eventually, Tweek began coming to Craig and offering him food or drinks.

"Y-Your Highness, I can't-"

"'Tweek,' Craig. Unless you want me to call you 'Sir Tucker.'" He mocked.

"Heaven forbid I use your proper title in front of His and Her Majesty as well as your relatives." Craig teased.

"Shut up and drink this!"

"I'm allergic."

"Liar!" Tweek chuckled, playfully narrowing his eyes, "You said you wouldn't lie to me, Sir Tucker~!"

Craig rolled his eyes before taking the drink he was offered, drinking it. Tweek then gave him a small confection, the raven eating it. He hummed at the taste, enjoying it.

The blonde smiled, "Like it?"

"It's very good." He nodded.

"Want more?"

"No, I'm okay."

"Unfortunately, you're telling the truth."

"Go get something to eat yourself."

The blonde took the glass and hummed, "I'll be back later!"

"Wait." Craig gently grabbed his hand, "Try to enjoy yourself, Tweek. For me?"

The blonde hesitated before he nodded, smiling, "I'll try."

He went back to the party and Craig smiled a bit. He watched as people began to come up to Tweek and, although initially hesitant, he began to loosen up. He was still clearly anxious and nervous, but the others were gentle and patient. Craig relaxed himself as Tweek began to enjoy himself, watching as the blonde talking and mingled with his family or other guests, dancing with others, and overall smiling brightly.

"See that?" "His Highness is having fun!" "About time."

Craig's ears perked up, looking at the other guards out of the corner of his eyes.

"I'm tired of hearing him scream bloody murder about everyone. Are we even sure his powers work? At this point, everyone is a traitor to him."

Craig spun around, eyes ice cold as he glared at the guard who spoke, "Watch your tongue." He demanded.

"Pardon-"

"I didn't stutter, did I? Watch. Your. Tongue." Craig got in the other's face, "Be lucky the prince hasn't seen your slimy self, because words like those can be considered traitorous." He moved back to stand in line properly, "If I hear any of you utter such vile nonsense again, I will deal with you myself."

The others regained their composures, awkward and ashamed. How dare they? Craig thought, hands clenching into fists behind him, They don't know anything about him. 

The night continued on, and Craig was able to relax upon seeing Tweek's smile. He couldn't help the small smile that formed on his own face. As the night continued, the guests eventually had to start getting ready for dinner. The knights were to be led out first to the dining room as the guests stopped their dancing and waited for the go ahead to move.

Craig was just about to leave the room-

"S-STOP! C-CRAIG!"

With no hesitation, the knight turned on his heels and, with perfected ease, weaved through the crowd until he reached Tweek. Craig grabbed the handle of his sword and pushed himself to stand in front of Tweek, separating the prince from the other person.

"Woah, woah, take it easy!" The man held up his arms in a surrender motion.

Craig narrowed his eyes. The man in front of him looked similar to Tweek's father: brown hair, green eyes, wearing a black suit with a forest green tie, and a necklace with a red diamond charm around it.

Red?

"It's alright, I'm Tweek's uncle-"

"N-NO, NO, YOU'RE NOT, YOU'RE LYING, YOU'RE LYING!" Tweek hugged Craig's arm.

The man looked concern, going to step forward, "Tweek-"

Craig unsheathed his sword and put it to the man's neck, Tweek whimpering and hugging him tighter.

The man widened his eyes and glared, "How dare you raise your sword to me?"

"My concern is for the prince's safety, and if he feels you pose a threat, then I will act on such." Craig said, cold, callous, calculating, intimidating, "If you take another step, I will not hesitate to eliminate you."

The man glared, "This is ridiculous! I'm his uncle-"

"I care not who you are, you are causing him stress. I will not stand for that."

"Tweek, come here, sweetheart!" The queen cooed, running over. She gently grabbed his shoulders and began to pull Tweek away, "Come on, it's okay-"

"NO, HE'S LYING!" He gripped her shoulders, eyes wide and manic, "HE'S LYING, MOTHER, I CAN SEE-"

"Tweek, honey, you can't see if family is telling the truth-" She tried to gently remind him.

"THEN HE'S NOT FAMILY!" Tweek pulled back, "HE CANT BE, HE'S NOT!"

"He's gone mad." Tweek's 'uncle' groaned, "I was just inquiring about his newfound motivations and inspirations. We haven't seen him for quite some time."

"HE'S LYING, I CAN TELL!" Tweek screamed, "CRAIG!"

The raven glanced over his shoulders. He could see the genuine fear in the prince's eyes. The emeralds had turned into onyxes, clouded with terror, sweat beaded down his face, his ears were lowered, face pale and sickly.

Tweek fell to the floor, gripping Craig's leg, clutching them with tears threatening to fall down his cheeks, "C-CRAIG, CRAIG, PLEASE!"

The king walked over, grabbing the prince, looking annoyed and embarrassed, "Tweek, come on, let's go-"

"NO, NO, CRAIG, YOU BELIEVE ME, RIGHT?! HE'S NOT RELATED TO ME!" The blonde sobbed, hugging his knight's leg tighter as he buried his face into the fabric of his pants, "I CAN TELL, HE'S LYING, LYING!"

"Tweek, enough!"

"CRAIG, PLEASE-"

"Your Majesty, wait." Craig spoke.

The king looked at Craig, "...Sir Tucker, I understand you have been helping my son, but surely you know better than most the extents to his powers."

"Of course I do, Your Majesty. I just wish to calm His Highness down."

"CRAIG-" Tweek looked up at him and stopped.

The knight looked down at Tweek with his hazel eyes, "It is alright, Your Highness. Remember what I told you?"

Tweek stared, his darkened eyes beginning to glow a light green as he nodded.

"Can you stand?"

Tweek pulled himself out of his parent's grips, Craig slowly lowering his sword. He faced Tweek, who buried himself into his chest. Craig leaned down, whispering into his ear.

The king sighed, looking at the other man, "Brother, I apologize for my son's outburst, we had thought a party like this would be good, now that he was returning to himself."

The man smiled, waving it off, "It is alright, Brother, I understand Tweek is-"

In the blink of an eye, Craig easily lifted his sword, hooking it into his necklace and cutting the string. The necklace fell to the floor and Craig was quick to stomp on the charm. Upon doing so, the illusion was broken, a new man standing in front of them. Craig grabbed the man's arm and spun him around, pinning him down against the floor.

The man was shocked and screamed, "YOU LITTLE S-"

Craig grabbed the man by the back of his head, slamming his face into the ground, "Shut the hell up."

Chaos erupted.

Tweek was shaking as he fell to the ground again, staring at Craig. He felt like he was underwater as he heard his father and mother yell, demanding more guards. Other people were yelling and screaming, but it was drowned out by the white noise filling his head. Tweek raised his arms and began to itch and scratch them, eyes wide in pure panic, frozen still in terror.

Not again, please not again, please, I don't want-

"Your Highness."

I don't want to be taken, not again, these eyes only bring trouble-

"Your Highness, Tweek."

This is a curse, why am I cursed, why me, why, why, why, why-

"Tweek!"

The blonde let out a hiccup mixed with a shuttered gasp, feeling someone grab his hands. He hesitated, shaking lifting his head, his eyes meeting comforting, reassuring, safe hazel ones.

"Tweek." The knight, his knight, Craig cooed, cupping his cheek, wiping his eyes, "I'm right here. You're okay."

The blonde's bottom lip quivered as he leaned into the other, sobbing hysterically, hugging the raven tightly.

"Forgive me, Your Majesty." Craig picked Tweek up, calling out to the king, "But I shall excuse myself and Tweek from this party."

He carried the prince out of the room, hugging him tightly, protectively, as he sobbed into his shoulder, hugging Craig like his life depended on it. Once they made it to Tweek's room, Craig gently put Tweek on his bed, going to move.

"N-NO!" Tweek cried, holding his arm and pulling Craig towards him, "N-No, no, please, p-please, Craig, j-just-"

"Shhh, shhh, it's okay." Craig sat beside him, cupping his cheeks and wiping his tears away, "It's okay, Tweek, I'm right here. You're safe, Tweek, you're safe with me."

Tweek held Craig's hands to his face, sobbing and shaking, "T-Thank you, thank you-"

"There's no need to thank me-"

"Y-You believe m-me, o-only one to b-believe me-!" He sobbed, leaning into Craig.

"Of course, I will always trust and believe you." Craig hugged him into his chest, rubbing his back soothingly, "No matter what, Tweek."

Tweek cried himself to sleep into Craig's chest, the knight rubbing his pack, petting his head, cooing and reassuring him the entire time. 

"I don't ever intend on breaking my promise, Tweek. Never." Craig whispered, laying him on his back and covering him up with his blanket. He sat beside the blonde's head, staring down at him, stroking his head, "...I... I care a lot about you..."

Tweek continued to sleep peacefully.

***

Tweek's eyes fluttered open as he slowly woke up the next day. He hesitantly looked around, confused, head hurting, and overall exhausted.

"Tweek."

The blonde turned and smiled softly, "Craig."

The knight sat beside him, concern plastered on his face, "Hey. Are you okay?"

"Better now."

Craig reached out, gently brushing the blonde's bangs out of his face, "Did you sleep well?"

"I did." Tweek smiled, face dusting pink.

"Good." He pulled his hand back, smiling softly.

"What happened? A-After everything?"

"I brought you here and sat with you until I was sure you were sleeping soundly and not going to wake up scared. Once I left, His and Her Majesty approached me, thanking me and wanting to apologize to you."

Tweek frowned.

"I let them know you were asleep and they gave me some details. The man who tried to talk with you is a mage who intended on kidnapping you-"

"I know that already."

"But you didn't know that he was working with a group of people."

Tweek widened his eyes.

"Don't worry, bastard folded immediately as soon as I walked in and we were able to apprehend the group. They're awaiting trial and punishment." Craig hissed, clenching his fists. He looked away, "...I apologize, I shouldn't-"

Tweek sat up and leaned into Craig, laying his head on his shoulder. Craig turned red and looked down at the prince, who just leaned into him, holding the raven's hand, "Don't apologize, Craig... I thank you for being comfortable with me, thank you for always being honest, for letting me see this side of you." The blonde smiled up at him, "You always have such a blank expression on your face, so being able to see you smile and get angry on my behalf makes me happy." He gently nudge the other, "It makes me feel... happy. Normal. L-Like I'm not crazy."

"You're not!" Craig quickly said, "I-I mean... I don't think you're crazy."

"I know. S-Sometimes I feel l-like it... but you make it- me feel better." The blonde leaned into him.

Craig smiled softly, leaning into the prince.

"...Let's stay in today."

"I agree."

The two spent the day in Tweek's room, enjoying one another's presence and company, smiling brightly at one another the entire time.

***

It was months later when everything came to a head.

"WHAT?!" Tweek slammed his hands on the table, standing up. 

"It's about time we look into this, sweetheart." His mother explained.

"You're telling me over dinner that you're throwing a ball in two days so I can get engaged?!"

"You need to start taking steps on becoming a proper king." His father nodded, "In reality, you should have had this ball years ago, when you had first turned eighteen, but you were deep into your paranoia." 

"Richard..."

"Oh, uh, apologies, my son, I just meant that it would have been unwise to hold it then, seeing as you were struggling. Now that you are feeling better, we should-"

"B-But I don't want this! C-Can't I, ack, I-I don't know, wait?"

"You can have a long engagement, if that's what you wish. But you really should have a spouse, dear." His mother encouraged.

"Ugggh, NO! W-Why can't I just choose myself?! I-I mean, I'll be able to tell if the person i-is even telling the truth or not-!"

"Tweek, it's tradition." His father interrupted, "I understand your powers give you sight that is often painful for you, but we will be having this ball, you will be choosing a partner during that time, and if you wish to have a long engagement? That is fine. But this is happening."

Tweek narrowed his eyes, "T-This is ridiculous! ACK!" He spun on his heels and began to stomp out.

"Tweek!" His mother called.

Craig, who had been standing beside the blonde the whole time, followed after him. He quickly caught up, the blonde going to itch and scratch at his arms.

"Hey, it's alright." Craig cooed, gently taking the other's hands in his.

"I-I don't want this, Craig!" Tweek hissed, tears coming to his eyes, "I-I... I don't want this..."

"Everything will be okay."

"I-I don't w-want to choose someone..."

"You see people's true intentions, right?" The raven asked, the blonde looking up at him. He whispered, "Maybe... Maybe you can say they all have bad intentions and delay it?"

"Knowing Father, he'd realize it immediately... I-I'm not a good liar..."

"Well..." Craig squeezed his hands, biting his bottom lip, "Do... Do you trust me?"

"Of course."

"Then I will figure something out. I promise."

"Craig-"

"I promise." The knight cupped the other's cheek, giving Tweek a determined look, "You won't be marrying or engaged to anyone you don't wish to be. Not while I'm here."

Tweek smiled, nodding.

When the day of the ball came, Craig was dressed in his suit of armor, standing beside Tweek. The prince looked stunning, dressed in an emerald green prince coat with golden edges and ruffles, wearing emerald and gold earrings in his pointed ears. He wore white dress pants with black shiny shoes, his hair tamed and held back in a small ponytail with a green hair tie. Tweek was forced to stand outside the ballroom and greet everyone, whether it just be family members, friends, or potential suitors. He was able to put on an awkward, nervous, and anxious smile as he greeted them, but he was struggling to remain standing, struggling to stop his shaking, struggling to stop the sweat beading down his face. Once everyone had arrived, Craig walked Tweek to the throne that was set up so other's could present their offers to the prince.

Once Tweek was seated, Craig stepped back and moved towards another knight.

"Hey, good to see you, man, it's been forever-"

"Cover me."

"What?!"

"Stan, just cover for me and I'll owe you. If Tweek needs me, say I'm in the bathroom and just stand beside him!"

"Dude, in case you forgot, I work for a different royal family-"

Craig glared, "The Tweak Royal Family and Broflovski Royal Family are allies, right? Just cover me! Please!"

The other groaned, "Fine, but if I get in trouble, I'm dragging you down with me."

"Thank you, I owe you!"

Craig quickly slipped away.

Meanwhile, Tweek sat on the throne he was provided, listening to those who came asking for his hand with increasingly more resentment. While a lot of them were telling the truth ("I can provide the Elven kingdom more land if our kingdoms unite", "I can provide you with more riches than you could ever desire", etc.), a lot of them had ulterior motives. His emerald eyes stared at the people, black shadows spilling out of their mouths as they spoke, their hearts glowing red as they tried and failed to hide their intentions.

"Thank you for the offer, I shall consider it." Tweek said with practiced eased, trying his best not to let annoyance slip through. He looked over his shoulder to where Craig should be standing with the other knights. However, he didn't see him, making him concerned.

"Your Highness?" A knight approached, bowing his head and whispering, "Forgive me, but Sir Tucker has temporarily stepped out. He says he had to use the restroom."

Tweek saw no lies, "...You're not one of our knights."

The man smiled, "My name is Stan Marsh, I serve His Highness Kyle Broflovski. Sir Tucker and I have fought together before. He asked I help you while he is away. Is there something I can do?"

Tweek hesitated, looking forward as a new man approached, "...Not right now. Thank you, Sir."

"Of course." Stan went to walk away.

"A-Actually..." Tweek fiddled with the cuffs of his sleeves, "...I'm feeling a bit anxious. Could you just stand by my side? U-Usually Craig would and it calms me down..."

"Of course, Your Highness."

"Thank you."

Stan stood by his side, head bowed.

Finally, the new suitor got down on one knee in front of Tweek, bowing his head, "Your Highness. My name is Damien Thorn, I come from a family of mages. I offer you an alliance between our two kingdoms, as well as more knowledge on magic that would be beneficial to elves. In fact-" Damien lifted his head, a smirk appearing on his face, "-I may have knowledge on how to nullify your abilities."

Tweek's breath hitched. He was expecting shadows or black smoke to surround the man.

But no.

He's telling the truth?

"The knowledge of magic the Thorn Family has far exceeds the elemental magic the Elven Kingdom has come to know and mastered. I believe I have knowledge on how to nullify the magic in your eyes, or to even remove the magic completely, allowing you to live without the constant state of fear." Damien tilted his head, "In return, I ask for your hand."

To be able to finally get rid of this curse. Tweek clenched his fists, I sense no ulterior motives, he's not lying. But he's also not certain. He's saying he believes to have this knowledge. He bit his bottom lip, ...But... if it's still a possibility, if it's still a chance... he's the only one so far who has not lied or had any ulterior motives.

The blonde took a deep breath, "...I thank you for this offer. It's by far the most convincing." He looked around before standing up, "...I see no others willing to make an offer for my hand. If that is the case, I-"

"Your Highness, wait-!"

Tweek gasped, eyes widening as he looked up. Everyone turned to the doors as they were slammed open. The blonde was in shock, seeing Craig, no longer in his suit of armor. He wore a navy blue suit blazer over a black button up shirt, a matching navy blue tie, black dress pants, and black shoes. He had slicked his hair back, making himself more presentable, and completed his outfit with a golden boutonniere pinned to his blazer.

"What is the meaning of this?!" Tweek's father exclaimed, "Sir Tucker-"

"Apologies, Your Majesty, but from your own words, His Highness will be choosing a partner tonight." Craig began walking down the hallway, "Not once have you stated there were any restrictions on who may or may not present their offer."

"This is-"

"Father."

The king looked at Tweek, who was glaring down at him. He widened his eyes, "Tweek-"

"This is my ball, my party, and my choice. If Sir Tucker wishes to present himself as a possible candidate, then I would like to hear him out."

His father stared at Tweek for a moment, seeing the seriousness, the calm, the certainty. He bowed his head, "If that is what you wish, my son."

Tweek smiled, "Thank you." He turned back to face Damien and Craig. Damien had stood up, glaring at Craig, who stood beside him, "Your Highness, Damien Thorn, I ask that you step to the side as Sir Tucker makes his offer."

"Y-Your Highness-"

"You are not out of the running, just yet." Tweek reassured, "But I wish to give everyone a fair chance and hear all that is being offered to me."

Damien hesitated before he stepped to the side.

Tweek sat down in his throne, smiling at Craig, "Well, then. You've caused quite a scene. Present your case to me, Sir Tucker."

Craig's face turned red, but he immediately bowed his head, getting down on one knee, "Y-Your Highness, Tweek, I-I... I'm ashamed to say that I cannot offer you land, I cannot offer you vast riches, and I certainly cannot offer you the magical knowledge you seek, for I have none of those things. I am but your humble knight, who will stand by your side, whether or not you accept my proposal." Craig felt sweat drip down his face, clenching his fists, "All I can offer you is my respect, my loyalty, and the promise that, no matter what, I will always trust and believe you. I will always put you first, I will do whatever you say and believe whatever you say with no hesitation or question." He looked up at Tweek, the blonde staring at him with a small smile, his green eyes glowing slight. Craig gave a slight smile back, "What I offer cannot be given by just anyone. This devotion I have for you is only something I can give. I give you my words, which I know you can see are true, with or without your power. In return, I ask- beg for your hand."

Tweek closed his eyes, standing up.

Craig became panicked, lowering his head. Did I mess up-

"You lied to me, Sir Tucker."

The raven looked up, confused as Tweek walked towards him.

"No I didn't, I-"

Tweek stopped in front of him, putting a finger to Craig's mouth, "You said all you can offer is your respect, loyalty, your promise, and your words." The prince smiled, face flushing red, "Not once did you mention your love for me."

Craig felt his own face heat up as he smiled, taking the prince's hand and kissing his palm, "I feel as though it was unnecessary to mention. You can see how I feel, my intentions."

"I'd like to hear you say it."

"Of course, my prince." Craig stood up. He bowed and, still holding Tweek's hand, once again kissed his palm, "I offer you my respect, my loyalty, my promise, my words, and my undying love that I've held for far too long. Being the one to help you, to stand by your side, to be the witness to your glory and grace is something I will always cherish. In return, I beg you show me mercy in giving me, your loyal and humble knight, your hand."

Tweek moved his hand to cup Craig's cheek, having the other look up. He stared into the knight's beautiful hazel eyes with a smile.

"You've always had my hand in my heart. I'm honored you're finally willing to make it official." He cupped Craig's cheeks, pulling him down.

The knight grabbed Tweek's hips in response, both leaning into one another as their lips connected. Everything around them drowned out, they ignored the loud cheers, the congratulations, the sound of champagne being popped open. It was just them, at this moment, holding one another tightly.

When they pulled back, they smiled at one another, their faces matching shades of red.

"I accept your proposal, Sir Tucker."

"I am honored, Your Highness, Tweek."

They shared another kiss, one of many to come.