13. Darius
13
Darius
I t had been several days since the disastrous yet oddly endearing horseback riding incident, and Darius found himself in an unfamiliar state of anticipation. He stood in the courtyard, waiting for Robin to join him for their planned afternoon stroll through the city. The demon lord couldn’t help but reflect on how quickly Robin had become a constant presence in his thoughts.
At first, Darius had attributed his fascination to mere curiosity about the boy’s audacious scheme. But as the days passed, he found himself increasingly drawn to Robin’s quick wit, endearing clumsiness, and that infectious laugh that seemed to brighten even the gloomiest corners of Argentum Keep. It was… unsettling, to say the least. Darius, the formidable Duke of Shadowmere, was not accustomed to such feelings.
He was pulled from his musings by the sound of approaching footsteps. Turning, Darius saw Robin emerging from the castle, accompanied by Meredith and Russet. Perched on Robin’s shoulder was Starling, her iridescent feathers shimmering in the sunlight.
As Robin drew closer, Darius felt his breath catch in his throat. The boy was a vision in a pastel-blue dress that seemed to float around him like a summer cloud. His long hair cascaded freely down his back, catching the afternoon sunlight and creating a halo effect that was almost ethereal.
But it was Robin’s face that truly captured Darius’ attention. Those bright-green eyes, always so expressive, were now enhanced by thick, dark lashes that fluttered delicately with each blink. His cheeks bore a subtle rosy hue, and his lips drew Darius’ gaze like a moth to a flame. Painted a vibrant cherry red—a bold departure from the usual subtle tints Robin wore—the rich color made his lips look impossibly full and inviting, a temptation Darius found increasingly difficult to resist.
Darius had grown accustomed to seeing Robin in light, barely there makeup over the past days, but this… this was different. He had never imagined that a boy in such striking makeup could be so utterly enchanting. It was a revelation that both intrigued and unsettled him.
Behind Robin, Meredith gently held Russet back, the dog whining softly at being separated from his master. Starling took flight from Robin’s shoulder, soaring into the air.
“Your Grace,” Robin said with a curtsy that was far more graceful than his previous attempts. “I hope I haven’t kept you waiting long.”
Darius cleared his throat, suddenly aware that he’d been staring. “Not at all, dove. You look…” He paused, searching for a word that wouldn’t betray the depth of his admiration. “…captivating.”
A blush deepened the color on Robin’s cheeks, creating a charming contrast with his bold lip color. “Thank you, Your Grace,” he replied.
Darius offered his arm to Robin, trying to ignore the way his pulse quickened when those cherry-red lips curved into a shy smile. “Shall we?”
As they made their way to the waiting carriage, Darius couldn’t help but notice the appreciative glances cast their way by the castle staff. A mix of pride and an unexpected surge of possessiveness welled up within him. He found himself drawing Robin closer, a subtle claim that didn’t go unnoticed by the more observant onlookers.
The carriage itself was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, befitting the Duke of Lunaria. Its sleek, ebony exterior was adorned with intricate silver filigree that seemed to shimmer and dance in the afternoon light. The Lunarian crest, a crescent moon embracing a star, was emblazoned on the doors in polished silver. Four magnificent white horses, their manes braided with silver thread, stood ready to pull the grand vehicle.
As Robin ascended the small set of steps into the carriage, Darius followed close behind. The interior was plush and luxurious; rich, midnight-blue velvet cushions lined the seats, embroidered with silver constellations that mirrored the night sky. Crystal lamps hung from the corners, ready to illuminate their journey should it extend into the evening.
Once settled in the carriage, they set off for the city. The smooth suspension made the ride feel as though they were gliding on air, a noticeable difference from the cobblestone streets below. As they passed through the castle gates, the sprawling cityscape of Lunaria unfolded before them.
The afternoon sun bathed the city in a warm light, making the white stone buildings glow. Spires and towers reached toward the sky, their pennants fluttering in the gentle breeze. The famous silver mines that were the lifeblood of Lunaria could be seen in the distance, their entrances marked by elaborate archways.
Closer to the city center, the streets transformed into a vibrant mosaic of color and movement. Market stalls lined the thoroughfares, their awnings a riot of reds, blues, and greens. The scent of freshly baked bread and exotic spices wafted through the air, carried on the breeze that ruffled the leaves of the carefully tended trees lining the main boulevard.
Despite the breathtaking vista before him, Darius found his gaze continually drawn back to Robin. The young man’s excitement was palpable, his eyes wide as he took in the sights beyond the carriage window. Every gasp of delight, every widening of those bright-green eyes, every smile that graced those cherry-red lips was a sight more captivating to Darius than any cityscape, no matter how familiar or grand.
The way the sunlight caught in Robin’s pale hair, creating a halo effect, or how his delicate hands pressed against the window in childlike wonder—these were the visions that truly held Darius’ attention. Each innocent reaction stirred something warm and unfamiliar in his chest, a feeling both exhilarating and unsettling for the demon lord.
“Oh, look at that fountain!” Robin exclaimed, pointing to an elaborate structure in a small square. “The water looks like it’s dancing!”
Darius chuckled. “That’s the Siren’s Cascade. Local legend says that if you toss a coin into it and make a wish, it will come true… but only if your heart is pure.”
Robin’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “Well then, Your Grace, I suppose that rules you out, doesn’t it?”
For a moment, Darius was taken aback by the teasing jab. Then he let out a rich laugh that surprised even himself. “Touché, little dove. I see your wit is as sharp as ever.”
As they ventured deeper into the city, Robin noticed something peculiar. Colorful banners and garlands adorned many of the buildings, and there was an air of excitement among the citizens that seemed to go beyond the usual market day bustle.
“Your Grace,” Robin said, his curiosity piqued, “it looks as though the city is preparing for some kind of celebration. What’s the occasion?”
Darius’ expression remained neutral, but there was a hint of something unreadable in his eyes. “Ah, you’ve noticed. The city is indeed preparing for… a change.”
“A change?” Robin pressed, intrigued by the vague answer.
“Yes,” Darius replied, his tone carefully measured. “A significant one. But let’s not dwell on that now. There’s much more of the city for you to see.”
Robin sensed there was more to it than Darius was letting on, but he didn’t push further. Instead, he allowed himself to be guided through the festive streets, all the while wondering what kind of change could inspire such joyous preparations.
The streets became more crowded as they approached the market square. Darius helped Robin out of the carriage, acutely aware of the warmth of Robin’s hand in his. They began their stroll through the bustling area, where vendors hawked everything from exotic spices to intricate jewelry.
Robin’s enthusiasm was infectious. He darted from stall to stall, exclaiming over colorful fabrics, inhaling the scent of freshly baked bread, and marveling at the craftsmanship of local artisans. Darius found himself seeing the familiar sights through new eyes, enchanted by Robin’s wonder.
At one point, Robin became enamored with a display of delicate glass figurines. As he leaned in for a closer look, the voluminous skirts of his gown brushed against the table’s edge. Startled by the unexpected resistance, Robin instinctively stepped back, his heel catching on the hem of his dress. He wobbled precariously, arms windmilling as he fought to regain his balance.
The sudden movement sent vibrations through the table, and several glass pieces began to teeter dangerously close to the edge. Robin’s eyes widened in horror as he realized what was happening, but his attempts to steady himself only made matters worse as the unfamiliar weight of the gown threw off his center of balance.
Darius moved swiftly, one arm wrapping around Robin’s waist to stabilize him while his other hand deftly caught the tipping figurines. The vendor, who had been watching the scene unfold with mounting panic, let out a relieved sigh.
“I’m so sorry!” Robin stammered, his face flushed with embarrassment. He bit his lip, clearly struggling to find words that wouldn’t betray his secret. “I… I suppose I’m not as graceful as I should be.”
Darius found himself smiling, charmed by Robin’s flustered state and impressed by his quick recovery. “No harm done, dove. Though perhaps we should admire from a safe distance for now, hmm?”
Robin nodded gratefully. As they continued their walk, Darius noticed the reactions of the citizens around them. Many bowed respectfully as they passed, but their eyes lingered on Robin with undisguised curiosity and admiration. Whispers followed in their wake, speculation about the beautiful young woman accompanying their demon lord.
A mixture of pride and protectiveness swelled in Darius’ chest. He found himself drawing Robin closer, his hand resting possessively on the small of Robin’s back. The gesture did not go unnoticed; he saw several disappointed looks from young men who had been eyeing Robin appreciatively.
Then Darius felt it—a familiar presence at the edge of his awareness. Caelum. His brother was here, somewhere in the crowd, watching them. Darius resisted the urge to scan the area, knowing it would be futile. If Caelum didn’t want to be seen, he wouldn’t be.
As Robin chatted animatedly about a display of exotic flowers, Darius’ mind wandered to his wayward brother. When had Caelum arrived? And how had he managed to evade his escorts this time? It was a familiar dance between them—Caelum’s penchant for independence clashing with Darius’ protective instincts.
“Your Grace?” Robin’s voice pulled him back to the present. “Is everything alright? You seemed lost in thought for a moment.”
Darius offered a reassuring smile. “Just contemplating the mysteries of the universe, dove. Nothing to concern yourself with.”
Robin raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying the explanation but choosing not to press the issue. Instead, he pointed to a nearby alley. “What’s down there? It looks like there might be more shops.”
Indeed, the narrow passage was lined with smaller, more eclectic boutiques. Darius guided Robin into the alley, grateful for the relative quiet after the bustle of the main square.
As they explored the quaint shops, Darius found himself increasingly distracted by Robin’s proximity. The scent of his hair, the warmth of his body so close, the musical quality of his laugh—it was all becoming overwhelming. As they entered a narrow alleyway lined with boutique shops, Darius sensed Caelum’s presence fading. He knew his brother would find him when he was ready, allowing Darius to focus entirely on the moment.
They paused in front of a shop window displaying intricate jewelry. Robin leaned in, admiring a delicate silver necklace adorned with a teardrop-shaped emerald.
“It’s beautiful,” he murmured. “It reminds me of the forests back home.”
Darius watched Robin’s face, entranced by the way his green eyes sparkled with admiration. Without a word, he entered the shop, emerging moments later with a small, elegantly wrapped package.
“Your Grace, you didn’t…” Robin began, his voice trailing off in astonishment.
Darius silenced him with a gentle smile. “I wanted to,” he said softly. “May I?”
Robin hesitantly nodded, a mix of anticipation and nervousness flickering across his face as he turned around. Darius carefully lifted the necklace, the silver chain cool against his fingers as he draped it around Robin’s neck. As he did so, his fingertips grazed the warm, delicate skin at the nape.
The touch was electric. Darius found himself mesmerized by the gentle slope of Robin’s neck, the way it curved gracefully into his shoulders. His fingers lingered, tracing the path of the chain, relishing the silky smoothness beneath his calloused hands. The urge to explore further, to caress and even to press his lips against that inviting expanse of skin, was almost overwhelming.
Robin’s breath hitched, a barely audible gasp that sent a thrill through Darius. He could see the rapid pulse at the base of Robin’s throat, a telltale sign of the boy’s heightened state. As Darius fumbled with the clasp, taking longer than necessary, he caught the scent of Robin’s hair—an intoxicating blend of lavender and something uniquely Robin.
Finally securing the necklace, Darius allowed his hands to rest on Robin’s shoulders, reluctant to break contact. The narrow alleyway seemed to shrink around them, the rest of the world fading away as tension crackled in the air between them.
“Thank you,” Robin whispered, his cheeks flushing a delicate pink under Darius’ intense gaze.
Darius took Robin’s delicate hand in his, savoring the warmth that radiated from the boy’s skin. With a gentle tug, he guided Robin down the alleyway, past the bustling noise of the market, and into an even smaller passage between two shops. It was a secluded spot, hidden from prying eyes, where the world seemed to hold its breath.
Turning to face Robin, Darius found himself captivated by the young man’s beauty. The soft light that filtered through the narrow opening above illuminated Robin’s face, casting a gentle glow on his features. His bright-green eyes, wide and questioning, reflected a world of emotions that mirrored the tumultuous feelings within Darius himself.
With a tenderness that surprised him, Darius pulled Robin into his arms. As he did so, he felt Robin’s sharp intake of breath, a soft gasp that betrayed both surprise and anticipation. The boy felt impossibly small and delicate against him, a precious treasure that Darius was eager to explore. Robin’s body was soft in all the right places, yielding to the firm embrace of the demon lord, yet Darius could feel the slight tremor running through Robin’s frame, a silent echo of his nervousness.
Darius noticed Robin’s hands fluttering uncertainly before tentatively settling on his chest, the touch featherlight and hesitant. The delicate softness of Robin’s form was a world apart from the hard, muscular bodies that Darius was accustomed to, and he found himself enchanted by the novelty of it.
As Darius lowered his head, he saw Robin’s eyes widen, pupils dilating with a mix of fear and desire. Robin’s lips parted slightly, quivering with anticipation. When Darius finally captured those trembling lips in a kiss that was both sweet and passionate, he felt Robin’s initial hesitation melt away.
There was an eagerness in the way Robin responded, a hunger that matched his own. Robin’s lips were soft and pliant, parting willingly under the insistent pressure of Darius’ tongue. Darius could feel the rapid beat of Robin’s heart, a staccato rhythm that echoed his own mounting desire. The taste of him was intoxicating, a heady mix of innocence and a burgeoning desire that left Darius yearning for more.
Despite Robin’s lack of experience, he worked hard to match Darius’ fervor. There was an endearing awkwardness in the way he moved, a tentativeness that was quickly replaced by a boldness that made Darius’ blood run hot. The boy was a quick study, his natural instincts guiding him as they explored the depths of each other’s mouths.
The alleyway around them might as well have been leagues away from civilization, for all Darius cared. It was their own private world, a pocket dimension where only their shared breath and the intertwining of tongues existed.
When Darius finally pulled back, Robin stood before him, utterly dazed and breathless. His cheeks were flushed with a rosy hue, and his lips were swollen from the intensity of their kiss. To Darius, Robin was the epitome of beauty and enchantment, a vision that made his pulse race and his loins ache with need.
The thought of claiming Robin, of driving him to the heights of ecstasy until he reached the peak of his pleasure, was intoxicating. Darius imagined the sounds that Robin would make, the way his body would arch and writhe beneath him, the look of pure bliss that would grace his face when he surrendered completely to Darius’ touch.
Robin blinked slowly, shaking his head as if to clear the fog of desire that enveloped him. A mischievous glint sparkled in his eye as he caught his breath. “Well,” he said with feigned nonchalance that belied his disheveled state, “I suppose this means I owe you another coin for the fountain. That was certainly a wish come true.”
Darius threw his head back and laughed, the rich sound echoing off the stone walls that surrounded them. Robin’s wit was just as appealing as his beauty, a delightful combination that Darius found irresistible.
“Indeed? I do hope you took copious mental notes,” Darius teased, his fingers ghosting over Robin’s abused lips.
Robin nodded solemnly, though the corners of his mouth betrayed his mirth. “Oh yes, quite diligently. But I’m afraid my legs might have run off in protest. They seem to have abandoned me altogether.”
Darius’ eyes darkened with desire at the sight of Robin’s playful expression, but he forced himself to remain focused on the matter at hand. “Then it seems we have no choice but to return to the castle,” he said, offering his arm to Robin once more. “I can’t very well have you collapsing in the middle of the street, now can I?”
D arius leaned back in his chair, a glass of deep-crimson wine cradled in his hand, the liquid swirling like a vortex of the sweetest poison. The memory of that afternoon’s escapade played on an endless loop in his mind, each replay more intoxicating than the last. The laughter, the stolen kisses in the shadow of an alleyway, the way Robin’s green eyes had sparkled with mischief and something else—something that set Darius’ ancient heart ablaze with a fire he hadn’t felt in centuries.
As he indulged in his private reverie, a familiar presence brushed against his senses. It was like the whisper of a shadow, a sensation that was as much a part of him as his own horns. Before he could even turn toward the source, Caelum materialized from thin air, a shimmering portal of shadow closing behind him with a silent snap.
The young demon lord was the epitome of ethereal beauty. His long midnight-black hair cascaded down his back, each strand capturing the light and refracting it into a thousand dancing stars. His slender form seemed almost translucent, a delicate contrast to the darkness that clung to him like a lover’s embrace. His horns, smaller replicas of Darius’ own, curled back gracefully, and his silver eyes sparkled with the untold secrets of the cosmos. Darius never ceased to marvel at how Caelum’s presence seemed to soften the hard edges of any room he graced.
With a swiftness born of longing, Caelum closed the distance between them and threw himself into Darius’ open arms. “You’re horrible!” he exclaimed, voice muffled against Darius’ broad chest.
Darius chuckled, wrapping his arms around his brother’s slender frame. “I’m flattered you missed me so dearly.”
Caelum pulled back just enough to pout up at him. “You left me behind like an old tome on a dusty shelf! Aethoria is vibrant this time of year; you could’ve at least taken me with you. Do you have any idea how lonely I’ve been? I’ve been reduced to playing shadow puppets with myself!”
“My dear brother,” Darius began with a wry smile, “your studies at Shadowmere are far more important than gallivanting around Aethoria with me.” He raised an eyebrow. “And speaking of studies, did you give your escort team and Master Grimoire the slip again?”
Caelum huffed and crossed his arms. “They watch me like I’m some precious gem to be locked away. I needed air. Besides,” he added with a dismissive wave of his hand, “Master Grimoire is ancient. He naps more than he teaches and gets winded at the slightest exertion. Our journey here was a series of tedious pauses for his weary bones. I swear, if we had to rely on him in battle, the war would be over before he finished his morning tea!”
Darius couldn’t suppress the smile that tugged at the corners of his mouth. Master Grimoire was indeed a relic from a bygone era, his wisdom as vast as his need for frequent rest. “I’m sure Master Grimoire is doing his best, Caelum. But I understand your… restlessness. Perhaps we should invest in a magical wheelchair for him, hmm? One that can keep up with your boundless energy?”
Caelum chuckled at the image, his silver eyes dancing with amusement. However, the laughter faded quickly, replaced by a glint of curiosity that Darius knew all too well. His younger brother had clearly been waiting for the right moment to broach a certain subject, and it seemed that moment had arrived.
Caelum’s expression shifted to one of mischief. “Speaking of your trip to the city,” he said with a knowing look. “I saw you today with your bride-to-be—or should I say bridegroom? You do realize your intended is not a damsel but rather a young man? Or have your eyes finally succumbed to your advanced age?”
Darius’ smile widened. “Yes, I’m well aware,” he replied smoothly. “My eyes are as sharp as ever, thank you very much.”
Caelum rolled his eyes dramatically. “And yet your ‘bride’ has no idea that you know? Oh, what games you play, brother. I never took you for such a trickster.”
Darius’ amusement was evident in the tilt of his lips. “The game is half the fun,” he said with a glint in his gold eyes that promised more intrigue to come. “As for comedies, well, life has a way of providing entertainment, doesn’t it?”
“Indeed, it does,” Caelum agreed with a mischievous grin. “Speaking of entertainment, shall I prepare some shadow puppets for your wedding night? I’ve been practicing, you know.”
Darius nearly choked on his wine, caught between laughter and shock at his brother’s audacity. “I think we’ll manage just fine without your… artistic contributions, thank you.” A ghost of a smile played on his lips as he watched Caelum’s youthful exuberance. “His name is Robin Aldercrest, and I expect you to be on your best behavior when you meet him. You’re both eighteen, after all. Perhaps you two might even become friends.”
Caelum’s eyes widened at the suggestion, a flicker of genuine excitement sparking within their depths. “A friend my own age? Truly?” His silver eyes danced with curiosity. “It’s been so long since I’ve met anyone who isn’t centuries old. But Darius,” he added, his voice taking on a thoughtful tone, “he’s human. He’ll age faster than I will, won’t he?”
Darius nodded, impressed by his brother’s perceptiveness despite his young age. “Indeed, Caelum. Humans have much shorter lifespans than we do. But that doesn’t mean the friendship would be any less valuable.”
Caelum’s expression softened, a mix of anticipation and concern crossing his features. “I suppose you’re right. It would be nice to have a friend who understands what it’s like to be young. Even if it’s just for a while.”
Suddenly, Caelum’s body tensed, his gaze darting to the door. His silver eyes widened, and a slight tremor ran through his slender frame.
The sudden shift in demeanor was striking. Gone was the curious youth, replaced by a young demon lord acutely aware of his own inexperience. Without another word, Caelum made for the window, his movements a blend of grace and haste.
Darius barely had time to react before Caelum leaped onto the sill, his slender form silhouetted against the sky. “I think I’ll go introduce myself to Robin,” he declared, a hint of mischief returning to his voice despite his obvious nervousness. “Time to make a new friend!” And then, with a skill that spoke of his innate talents, he was gone, leaving nothing but the faintest whisper of air to mark his departure.
The door to the study burst open moments later, and Ignatius strode in, his antler-like horns catching the light and casting eerie shadows upon the walls. “I sensed Caelum,” he said, his eyes scanning the room. “Where has the young one gone this time?”
Darius couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight of his friend, so formidable and yet so gentle when it came to Caelum. “You know how he is at this age. He has a knack for disappearing whenever he senses your approach. I think he’s still a bit in awe of you.”
Ignis shook his head, a mixture of fondness and exasperation in his expression. “I can’t believe he still bolts at the mere hint of my presence,” he grumbled, though there was a trace of amusement in his tone. He placed a hand over his heart in mock hurt. “And here I thought we were making progress. The boy wounds me, Darius. Am I truly so terrifying?”
Darius laughed softly at his friend’s theatrics. “Give him time, Ignis. He’s only eighteen, after all. Your presence can be quite… overwhelming for someone so young.”
Ignis settled into a chair, the golden markings on his skin shimmering with each movement. “So, tell me about your outing with your bride. How did it go?”
Darius’ lips curled into a sly grin. “It was… illuminating.”
A polite knock came at the door, and it was opened to reveal Clarence. “Pardon the interruption, Your Grace,” Clarence said with a bow. “The escort from Shadowmere has arrived.”
Darius and Ignis exchanged a look. “Well,” Darius said, rising from his chair, “let’s go greet our guests, shall we?”
The two demon lords made their way to the castle’s entrance, where they were met with an unusual sight. A group of demon knights stood at attention, looking somewhat disheveled and embarrassed. But it was the figure at their center that drew everyone’s attention.
Master Grimoire, Darius and Ignis’ former teacher, stood leaning heavily on a gnarled cane. His long white beard nearly touched the ground, and his robes seemed to swallow his frail form. As he caught sight of his former students, his face lit up with a toothless grin.
“Ah, my boys!” he croaked, his voice as dry as ancient parchment. “How wonderful to see you both! Though I must say, this journey has been most taxing on my poor old bones. I do believe I’ve aged another century just getting here!”
The escort leader, a burly demon knight, stepped forward and bowed deeply. “Lord Darius, Lord Ignatius, please accept our sincerest apologies. We… we seem to have misplaced Lord Caelum during our journey.”
Ignis raised an eyebrow. “Misplaced?”
The knight shifted uncomfortably. “He… ah… gave us the slip some time back. We’ve sent soldiers to search for him, but we haven’t heard anything yet.”
Darius waved a hand dismissively. “No need to worry. Caelum has already arrived.”
The knight’s relief was palpable. “Oh, thank the dark realms! We feared we’d have to search every shadow in Aethoria.”
Master Grimoire chuckled, the sound like rustling leaves. “That boy always was slippery as an eel. Reminds me of you two in your younger days. Though I daresay, I could still catch you then. Now, I’m lucky if I can catch my breath!”
Darius stepped forward, gently taking the old demon’s arm. “Come, Master Grimoire. Let’s get you settled. You must be exhausted from your journey.”
As they made their way into the castle, Master Grimoire’s eyes twinkled with mischief. “So, Darius, my boy, I hear congratulations are in order! When do I get to meet the lucky wife?”
Darius cleared his throat, caught off guard by the assumption. “Ah, well, Master, we haven’t actually—”
“Nonsense, lad!” Master Grimoire interrupted, waving his cane enthusiastically. “No need to be shy about it. I may be old, but news travels fast, even to these ancient ears. Now, where is the lovely demoness who finally managed to catch your eye?”
Darius exchanged a quick glance with Ignis, who was trying hard to suppress a grin. “Master, I think there’s been a misunderstanding. Robin and I—”
“Robin? What a peculiar name for a demoness,” Grimoire mused, stroking his long beard. “Ah, but who am I to judge? The young ones these days have such creative names. I’m sure she’s absolutely charming!”
Ignis couldn’t contain his amusement any longer and let out a chuckle, which he quickly disguised as a cough when Darius shot him a warning look.
Master Grimoire turned his attention to Ignis. “And you! When are you going to find yourself a nice demoness and settle down? I’ve been waiting centuries to see my two star pupils married with little demon spawn running about!”
Ignis coughed, clearly flustered. “I… uh… I’ve been rather busy with my duties, Master.”
“Busy! Hah!” Grimoire scoffed. “You two have always been ‘busy.’ Well, at least Darius here has finally come to his senses. Now it’s your turn, Ignis. Don’t make an old demon wait another millennium to see some grand-pupils!”
As they continued their journey through the castle’s winding corridors, Darius and Ignis exchanged looks of fond exasperation. Their old teacher’s enthusiasm was as boundless as ever, even if his assumptions were a bit off the mark.
Finally, they reached the guest chambers. Master Grimoire, despite his earlier energy, was beginning to show signs of fatigue from the long journey.
“Here we are, Master,” Darius said gently, guiding the old demon toward a plush armchair. “Why don’t you rest for a while? You must be exhausted from your travels.”
Grimoire sank into the chair with a grateful sigh. “Ah, yes. These old bones aren’t what they used to be. But don’t think you’re off the hook, my boys. I want to hear all about this wife of yours, Darius, and Ignis, we’ll be having a long chat about your future prospects!”
Darius chuckled softly. “Rest well, Master. We’ll have plenty of time to catch up over dinner.”
As they left the room, closing the door quietly behind them, Darius and Ignis shared another look of fond exasperation. Their old teacher might be ancient, but his memory—selective as it was—and his wit were as sharp as ever.
Ignis leaned in close to Darius as they walked down the corridor. “I’d forgotten how… energetic he can be. And how imaginative.”
Darius chuckled. “Indeed. Though I fear his energy might be put to use concocting even wilder theories about my ‘wife’ and our upcoming nuptials.”
“Speaking of which,” Ignis said with a mischievous grin, “how do you plan to explain your ‘bride’ to our dear old master? I don’t think he’s quite prepared for the surprise that awaits him.”
Darius’ eyes gleamed with amusement. “Oh, I’m sure we’ll think of something. After all, life is full of surprises, isn’t it? And if there’s one thing Master Grimoire taught us, it’s how to think on our feet.”