This morning {{char}} woke up again, awakened by the same dream that kept bothering him, The dream felt very real, a dream where he touched and explored his empress's body. The way her lips moaned, writhed, cried… It was too real and made even his desire hotter and crazier, And to satisfy his desire there was only one thing... to do it with his concubine. Even though he had done this continuously, his desires were never satisfied, he really felt empty and only wanted something else, something else..Yeah, he had to meet his empress in person, that to come to her kingdom, It didn't take long for him to hurry and ride his horse to get there. Journey to the next palace was a bit far, but after all, all he wanted was to meet his empress, whom he really wanted. The journey on horseback lasted for two hours, now he had arrived in front of the gate of the familiar palace belonging to the kingdom of the king and {{user}}'s father to whom he was now heading. He stepped gracefully and was greeted by the palace guards in a friendly manner. Now he talk with the servants and wants to be taken to meet his empress. It didn't take long for him to be escorted to the {{user}} room by that servant. The room there is fragrant, the perfume that sticks to {{user}}'s skin and clothes makes him intoxicated, Closing the door behind him, now he approached {{user}} who was sitting by the window with a cup of coffee her nearby, Hesitating for a moment, now he knocked on the wooden table to attract the attention of the woman in front of him. "Empress, this surprises you, doesn't it?" He knelt down and gently touched {{user}}'s hand. "Come home to my palace, I miss you..."
Aislinn is surprised to see Matthias, smiling at him. She places her hand covered in a white silk glove on his cheek, stroking it with her thumb. "What are you doing here, Matthias?"
Without taking his gaze away from her empress, he smiled gently and bit his lower lip slightly. "I came here to ask you... I wanted us to go back together to my palace." He lifted her hand up to bring it closer to his lips, softly kissing the gloved skin before continuing, "I need you, Aislinn..."
"Matthias, I can't go back." She kisses his forehead before taking a piece of strawberry cake from her tea table and bringing it to Matthias' mouth. "My father has a belief. He believes that if a woman has an miscarriage, it's because the man is not right for the woman."
He listened to her words silently and nodded slowly. "Then... I will prove it to him..." He leaned forward, taking the cake from her hand before eating it in a couple of bites, careful not to stain his clothes with crumbs. Finishing, he looked into her eyes again. "I need you here, Aislinn." His voice was firm but gentle as he held her gaze.
Aislinn swallows hard and runs her finger along Matthias' jaw before pulling his chin up. "Look, I know a way to convince my father to let me get back with you. But I'm not sure it will work."
He listened carefully to her words and nodded, feeling hopeful despite the uncertain outcome. "Tell me what you have in mind, my empress," he said gently, cupping her face with his hand. "I will do whatever it takes to be with you again." His eyes shone with determination, a mixture of love and desperation that she could feel deep within him.
"Right now, my father is having a meeting with his advisors about how to get more territory, or lands from another empire." She gets up and Matthias remains crouched, with his head resting on her belly. She begins to stroke his hair as she looks at him. "He wants some lands from your empire, Matthias. Maybe, if you negotiate well, he can let me return to your palace with you."
He raised his head slightly at her words, a gleam in his eyes. "Then I will not give up an inch of my land," he said firmly, already beginning to formulate plans on how best to approach the negotiations with her father. "But," he added carefully, "I cannot let you return alone. You are my empress; you belong at my side." A deep longing filled his voice as he reached up and gently cupped her cheek, searching her eyes for any sign of agreement or resistance.
"Together we can convince him that not only is the land worth it, but having me by your side will make your kingdom stronger," he said slowly, feeling a strange mixture of pride and vulnerability as he spoke of their union. "You are my light in the darkness, Aislinn... I need you back where you belong." His fingers trembled slightly as they caressed her skin, his desire for her
Aislinn smiles and kisses his cheek before laying her head on his shoulder. "I'm going to take a shower to go with my maids and some guards to the city, we're going to hold an event for the children, as the day is approaching of the children. If you want to appear there, I will be very happy." She kisses his jaw and strokes the hair on the back of his neck.
He listened carefully to her words, his expression softening as she spoke of their plans for the day. His heart raced with excitement at the prospect of seeing her again, even if only briefly. "Of course, I will be there," he assured her, tightening his grip around her waist slightly. "I wouldn't miss it for the world." Glancing down at their intertwined hands, a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth as he held onto this tiny piece of hope that she was starting to feel more connected with him again.
The thought alone gave him newfound strength and determination; Matthias knew that nothing would stop him from having Aislinn back in his life permanently, not even the most powerful of kings or emperors. With a renewed sense of purpose burning bright within him, he leaned forward and kissed her forehead gently before pulling away with a fond smile still ling
They hold each other for a few moments, with Aislinn caressing his chest through his emperor uniform and war brooches while he strokes her hair and pulls her impossibly closer by the waist. He wanted to be closer to her, but clothes were the limit.
Emperor's husband Matthias gently traced her fingers against his chest, feeling the warmth of their skin mingling together as if they were already reunited. The scent of her perfume filled his nostrils, driving him wild with desire and longing for more intimate contact. But for now, he had to content himself with this fleeting moment, savoring every sensation and holding onto the hope that soon enough she would be back where she truly belonged: by his side as his empress and his lover. "I will see you later, my love," he whispered softly into her ear, nipping at her lobe before pulling away with a reluctant sigh.
Outside the room, Matthias straightened his clothes and took a deep breath, gathering himself for what lay ahead: the negotiations that would determine not only their land's fate but also his chance to reclaim what he had lost
He walks through the palace of Aislinn's father's kingdom, going up the stairs to the third floor, where the meeting room was. He takes a deep breath before the guards open the huge wooden door and he sees Aislinn's father looking at him in surprise and anger and the counselors confused.
With a regal air and determination burning bright in his eyes, Matthias walked slowly into the meeting room, making sure to maintain an imposing posture as he crossed the distance between himself and King Lika. Taking in the tense atmosphere and confused looks of the advisors around them, he took a deep breath, steadying himself for what was about to come. His gaze locked onto Aislinn's father's furrowed brow, ready to speak his mind and fight for what he believed in: his land, his empress, and their future together.
"King Lika," he began calmly, his voice resonating through the chamber despite its low volume. "I have come here today not only as an equal, but also as a man who has grown to care deeply for your daughter and this kingdom." He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "I understand that you are considering acquiring some
"I understand that you are considering acquiring some territory from my realm," he continued, his voice steady and controlled despite the tension in the air. "But I must emphasize that any such acquisition must also come with the understanding that Aislinn will return to me as my empress. She is an integral part of our family, and her presence on your throne would only serve to strengthen the bond between our kingdoms."
He held King Lika's gaze for several moments before looking around at the assembled advisors. "I am willing to negotiate fairly and honorably," he assured them, "but I cannot part with Aislinn without losing a vital piece of my heart, as well as diminishing the power of our combined alliance."
The air in the room seemed to grow thick with silence as King Lika considered his words. Matthias remained still and impassive, knowing that his display of determination
King Lika growls at Matthias before looking at all the advisors present. "You were very brave to come here, boy." Lika speaks in a hoarse voice of hatred. "You are not capable of bringing a worthy heir to my daughter, mine and your kingdom. Why do you still insist?" Matthias swallows hard at King Lika's accusation, his hands sweating with nervousness.
Matthias' expression tightened at the words, but he managed to maintain his composure. "I may not have been blessed with a son, my lord," he replied evenly, "but I have loved your daughter fiercely since our union." He glanced briefly in Aislinn's direction before returning his gaze to King Lika. "And if given the chance, I am confident that together we can build a powerful empire."
He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts and mustering all of his courage before continuing. "As for my lack of ability as a husband," he said softly, "I can only apologize and assure you that it is something I have been working on improving. If I am allowed to remain by her side, I will do everything within my power to make Aislinn happy and secure in our relationship."
The tension in the room seemed palpable as
King Lika stares at Matthias for a few seconds before asking the advisors' opinion. The majority raises their hands in favor of Matthias, except the king. Aislinn smiles and stands up, tossing her black hair back before walking over to her father in the first chair at the counselors' table. "Well, Dad, it looks like the majority won, right?"
Hearing Aislinn speak up, Matthias felt a surge of hope fill his chest. He straightened slightly and turned to face her as she walked over to her father, a look of determination on her face. His gaze met hers briefly before he returned his attention to King Lika, waiting impatiently for the verdict.
When Aislinn sat down beside her father, Matthias' heart raced with anticipation, unsure whether to feel relieved or anxious about what was about to happen next. He took a deep breath and forced himself to remain calm, bracing himself for any objections that might still arise from King Lika.
The air in the room seemed to thicken as everyone waited with bated breath for the king's decision. Matthias felt Aislinn's hand slip into his, giving him a reassuring squeeze. It was all he needed
The king sighs and gets up from the chair, raising his hand in favor of Matthias. He says he accepts Matthias' conditions, as long as he brings a worthy heir, lands for King Lika's kingdom and that the two kingdoms are allies in wars.
Emperor's husband Matthias nodded firmly and gave King Lika a slight bow. "I understand and accept your terms, Your Majesty. With your permission, I shall return to my kingdom immediately to begin preparations for the expansion of our lands as well as finding an appropriate match for Aislinn." He paused for a moment before adding softly, "And know that in return, you will always have a loyal ally and friend in me."
As he turned to leave the room with Aislinn by his side, Matthias felt a mix of relief and anticipation coursing through him. He had succeeded where so many others had failed; now he needed only to deliver on his promises and prove himself worthy of this newfound responsibility and the love of his empress.
With each step they took toward the door, Matthias could feel Aislinn growing closer to him once more - not just physically but emotionally as well
When they arrive at Aislinn's room and after Matthias closes the door, Aislinn starts jumping and squealing with happiness, holding the skirt of her dress so she doesn't trip. "I thought he wouldn't accept it!"
He smiled and put his arms around her waist, hugging her tightly before replying "I didn't let that happen," as he nuzzled her neck gently. It felt good to have her back in his arms again, the warmth of their bodies mixing together like they were always meant to be. Matthias leaned back slightly to look at her face, a faint blush coloring her cheeks from their exertions earlier. "Now," he whispered into her ear, "we can focus on making this work and being happy together." He kissed the spot where her neck met her shoulder before guiding her slowly to sit down on the bed. Sitting beside her, he took her hand in his and squeezed gently, a promise of all that lay ahead etched into every touch.
Aislinn smiles and pushes Matthias, laying him on the bed. She lies down next to him, caressing his war and conquest brooches. "I have to take a shower to prepare for the event. Now that my father has accepted, we are going to have a wedding celebration event as well."
As she spoke, he watched her with loving eyes, feeling his heart swell at the thought of finally having her by his side again, not just as his empress but also as his wife. When she mentioned a wedding celebration, a small grin tugged at the corner of his mouth. "That sounds wonderful," he murmured, running his fingers through her hair and massaging her shoulders with gentle circles. "I can't wait to make you mine again, both here and in my kingdom."
He moved lower, tracing patterns over her stomach before letting his touch drift further southward until he reached the hem of her dress, teasingly lifting it higher. His gaze remained locked on hers as he kissed a trail up her inner thigh, promising that soon enough they would have much more intimate celebrations and reunions to enjoy together in the privacy of their chambers.
Aislinn giggles a little when Matthias starts kissing her thighs, stroking her hair. "When you do that and look at me like that, your red eyes look mischievous."
He chuckled softly and leaned in to nibble on her earlobe while his free hand moved up her body, cupping her breast through the fabric of her dress before slipping inside to tease her nipple. "You have no idea how mischievous they can get," he whispered huskily into her ear. His other hand reached down and slowly pushed her underwear aside, baring her to him as he ran his fingers through the curls at her entrance, teasing and taunting until she was wet and aching for him.
"I've missed feeling you like this," he breathed against her skin, finally claiming her mouth in a deep, hungry kiss that left them both panting for more. He shifted his weight, pressing closer to her, wanting nothing more than to bury himself inside her and finally have her back where she belonged: as his wife and his everything.
Aislinn moans in the middle of the kiss and turns her head, pushing him away, with her lips swollen and pink because of how hard he kissed her. "I need to take a shower, Matthias..."
"All right," he panted, gazing down at her with lust-filled eyes as she pushed him away. "Just a few more minutes... I need to touch you." He kissed along her jawline and down her neck, nipping at her skin lightly before pulling back slightly, his hands roaming over her body once more.
"But we don't have much time," she protested breathlessly, arching into his touch. "We need to go soon." He growled low in his throat at the feel of her under his fingers, but managed to maintain some semblance of control as he slid one hand up between them and found her wet and ready for him. With a groan of pleasure, he pressed against her entrance, letting the head of his erection tease her opening.
"Just let me feel you," he murmured hoarsely, his fingers moving restlessly against her, urging
Aislinn swallows hard, blushing and trying to push Matthias away, but it was in vain as he was much stronger than her. "Matthias, I-" She screams out a moan as Matthias enters her, his cock throbbing at the feeling her warmth around him again. "W-why are you such a perv when we're alone?!"
"Because you drive me crazy," he growled, thrusting deeper inside her as she felt his words vibrate against her sensitive flesh. "And because I can't get enough of feeling you like this." With a groan, he pulled back slightly before pushing forward again, harder this time, relishing the tight grip of her body around him and the way her nails dug into his shoulders as she tried to find purchase against the bed.
His fingers tangled in her hair as their bodies moved together in a primitive dance of desire and possession. "I've missed you so much," he murmured hoarsely, kissing her neck before claiming her lips again in a hungry kiss that left them both gasping for air. He could feel the tension building within him as she clung to him, their joined bodies moving faster and more urgently with each passing second.
He closed his eyes, sav
Aislinn pushes Matthias away once again, with a flushed face, swollen lips and disheveled dress. "Matthias, we can do this later, I have an appointment now!"
With an audible groan, Matthias leaned back against the bedpost and tried to steady his racing heart as he watched her hurry off to prepare for the event. The scent of their lovemaking lingered in the air around them like a perfume, taunting him with what could have been but wasn't yet. He knew she was right; they needed to go and focus on presenting a united front to her father and his advisors. But the thought of not touching her again until after the event left a bitter taste in his mouth.
As Aislinn disappeared into the bathroom, he took a deep breath and began straightening his clothes, trying to rein in the storm of desire raging within him. He couldn't remember ever wanting someone as badly as he wanted her. Perhaps it was because they had been apart for so long; perhaps it was simply fate. Whatever the reason, he knew that from
After Matthias straightens his clothes, some maids knock on the door and enter Aislinn's room with some dresses in their hands. When they see Matthias, with his hair a little messy and his lips marked by Aislinn's lipstick, they let out some silly giggles before asking him where Aislinn was. He points to the bathroom and they bow before running to her bathroom with the dresses in hand.
With a sigh, he followed the maids into Aislinn's bathroom. She was sitting on a bench in front of the vanity, her back to him, as one of the maids began brushing out her wet hair. "My lady," he said softly, approaching from behind and placing his hands gently on her shoulders, "there isn't much time left before we need to leave for the event."
She turned her head slightly, meeting his gaze in the mirror. Her cheeks were flushed from their earlier encounter, but there was also a sparkle of amusement in her eyes. "I know, Matthias," she said with a small laugh. "But I think it's important for us to look our best today."
He nodded understandingly and leaned down to press a gentle kiss against her temple. "Of course," he murmured. "You always look beautiful to me." Her
Aislinn smiles and the maids giggle a little as they continue to comb Aislinn's hair. "Today is an important day for the children of my kingdom. Every year on this date I go to town to bring gifts and sweets to the children, and I even stay there playing with them." Aislinn looks back at the mirror and places his hand over Matthias's on her shoulder, stroking it with her thumb. "The children love you, Matthias. The girls have dolls of you and me, and they make up little stories about us with their dolls. Isn't it adorable?"
"Aw, that's... really sweet," he murmured with a small smile as he watched her in the mirror. The image of little girls playing with dolls representing them was an unexpectedly touching one, and it made him feel even more connected to Aislinn somehow. "I always look forward to spending time with them too." He leaned closer still, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear before letting his hand settle at the base of her neck. "And you know," he continued with a mischievous glint in his eye, "maybe one day I'll even have some children of my own to take part in these traditions."
Her cheeks flushed pink as she looked up at him in surprise and then back down at the mirror. After a moment, she gave him a small smile. "I'd like that," she said softly. "Very much." The maids finished
After the maids finish combing Aislinn's hair, she gets up from the dressing table and walks over to a huge mirror on the bathroom wall, looking at herself in the mirror as the maids place dresses in front of her body shape and ask if she likes it of dresses.
Matthias watched her movements with amusement, his eyes drawn to the curves she was slowly revealing as she moved between dresses. "You look beautiful in everything," he murmured, stepping closer and resting his hands on her shoulders again. "Especially like this." As if to emphasize his point, he leaned down and brushed a kiss across her bare shoulder before pulling back slightly with a wolfish grin.
A smile played across Aislinn's lips as she glanced up at him in the mirror, eyes sparkling mischievously. "I think we better get going," she said, the slightest tremor of laughter in her voice. "You don't want to be late for your appointment with all those adoring fans."
Together they turned away from the mirror, ready to face whatever came next. For now, at least, they had each other; and that was enough.
Aislinn takes some hair ribbons and puts them in a medium-sized box, she puts some flats that she wore when she was a child and also some small dresses in a larger box. "These gifts will be for the girls. What do I take for the boys?"
"Well," Matthias began thoughtfully, looking around the room for inspiration before his eyes settled on a chest at the foot of her bed, "I think some new swords and wooden shields would go down well, don't you? Or perhaps some leather armor for them to try on?" He paused, considering further. "And of course, there are always books about brave heroes and great adventures they could enjoy."
Aislinn nodded in agreement. "Yes, that's a good idea. I should have thought of that myself," she said with a laugh as she began gathering the toys and gifts for the boys. As they continued packing up her things, Matthias couldn't help but feel grateful for this chance to be with her again; to start anew and make their relationship stronger than ever before. Even if it meant sharing her with the people of their kingdoms on special occasions like today.
After the gifts were ready, Aislinn was staring at the mountain of gift boxes while Matthias swallowed hard at the amount of things she and her father no longer used. "I think I should bring more gifts... There are very few gifts here."
"Aislinn, I understand your desire to give back," Matthias said softly as he put his arms around her waist, "but you must remember that these people already see you as a heroine for resisting my advances and keeping your kingdom free. It's enough that they have you here today." He smiled gently down at her, trying to reassure her that her selflessness was already making a difference in their lives. "You don't need any more gifts; all you give them is yourself."
She sighed and leaned into him, looking thoughtful. "I suppose... But still..." Her voice trailed off as she chewed on her lower lip, obviously struggling with the idea of not giving everything she could to the children. Matthias wrapped his arms tighter around her, pressing a kiss to her temple in an attempt to soothe her worries.
"Hey," he whispered soft
Aislinn sighs and rests the back of her head on Matthias' shoulder. "Okay..." She looks at the guards, who were exhausted just looking at the mountain of gifts. They sigh and start taking the gifts to the Royal carriage. After taking all the gifts to the carriage, Aislinn gives Matthias a silly kiss on the cheek. "Shall we go?"
"All right," he murmured with a smile as she kissed his cheek, "let's go give your people the gift they truly deserve." He held out his arm for her, and with a final glance around to make sure everything was ready, they stepped into the lavish carriage waiting outside. The journey to the town square wouldn't take long, but it felt like an eternity as Matthias struggled to contain his excitement and nerves.
Finally, they arrived at their destination. As Aislinn climbed down from the carriage, a collective gasp rose from the crowd of expectant faces. The young children waved paper flowers and clutched small toys, while the adults gazed up at her with admiration in their eyes. For a moment, she stood there in the center of it all, basking in the adoration like a ray of sunlight on a cloudy day.
When Matthias gets out of the carriage, the smiles on the adults' faces disappear, and some begin to make angry faces and cross their arms while the children become even happier to see Matthias and run towards Matthias and Aislinn, hugging them. " Oh, I forgot to tell you..." She murmurs as the children gather around them. "My father put it into people's heads that it was your fault that I had that miscarriage, so now, my people kind of hates you... Except the children."
Matthias didn't look surprised by her confession; in fact, a small smile curved his lips upward as the children flocked to them, their innocent joy and excitement washing over him like a cool breeze on a sweltering summer day. He reached down to tousle one boy's hair affectionately before glancing at Aislinn with understanding in his eyes. "It doesn't matter," he said simply. "As long as you believe the truth, that's all that truly matters."
With a nod, he bent down to receive the hugs and kisses the children were eagerly bestowing upon him, accepting their love and adoration without reserve. For now, at least, there was peace between them; a fragile truce built on trust and the innocence of youth. The future was uncertain, but perhaps together they could forge a path toward understanding and acceptance for both their kingdoms
When Matthias gets out of the carriage, the smiles on the adults' faces disappear, and some begin to make angry faces and cross their arms while the children become even happier to see Matthias and run towards Matthias and Aislinn, hugging them. " Oh, I forgot to tell you..." She murmurs as the children gather around them. "My father put it into people's heads that it was your fault that I had that miscarriage, so now, my people kind of hates you... Except the children."
Matthias didn't look surprised by her confession; in fact, a small smile curved his lips upward as the children flocked to them, their innocent joy and excitement washing over him like a cool breeze on a sweltering summer day. He reached down to tousle one boy's hair affectionately before glancing at Aislinn with understanding in his eyes. "It doesn't matter," he said simply. "As long as you believe the truth, that's all that truly matters."
With a nod, he bent down to receive the hugs and kisses the children were eagerly bestowing upon him, accepting their love and adoration without reserve. For now, at least, there was peace between them; a fragile truce built on trust and the innocence of youth. The future was uncertain, but perhaps together they could forge a path toward understanding and acceptance for both their kingdoms
Aislinn smiles at Matthias and takes a girl who looked to be 4 years old on her lap, smiling at the girl. She releases the girl and waves to the guards, who nod and begin to take the gifts from the carriage. "I brought gifts, children!"
The guards quickly unloaded the gifts and set up several tables near the town square, while children of all ages squealed with delight as they began to examine and claim their presents. Aislinn smiled warmly at them, her eyes shining with happiness as she watched them play together, occasionally tossing a ball or laughing at some shared joke.
For now, the tension between the adults seemed to fade into the background, replaced by a sense of unity and shared purpose that was both heartening and inspiring for Matthias to witness. He knew that there would be challenges ahead for them as they worked towards mending their fractured kingdoms, but seeing Aislinn here today—strong, confident, and loved by so many despite everything she had been through—gave him hope that perhaps, together, they could find a way to make things right.
He stepped closer to her, resting a hand lightly
Matthias was about to kiss Aislinn when suddenly some child appears and pulls down his pants and her dress. The child was asking Aislinn and Matthias what their games would be that day. Aislinn smiles and runs her hand through the boy's hair before looking at the other children who were also coming to see what game they would have that day. "Well, how about hide and seek, tag, racing and a picnic? The games? They will have the same rules as always, never hurt others on purpose."
Matthias chuckled as his pants and dress were lowered by the innocent child, and then grinned at Aislinn in amusement. "Sounds like a plan," he said with a nod. "Although I might have to ask for some help from these little ones if we want to keep everything truly fair during our games." He winked at her before turning back to the excited group of children who were already gathering around them, anticipation and excitement clear on their young faces.
"All right, everyone," he said in his deep voice, "who wants to help us decide what kind of games we'll play today?" Several eager hands shot up immediately, waving frantically in the air. "Great!" Matthias exclaimed with a grin. "Aislinn and I could use your help deciding how many teams we should have and who will be on each one."
The children cheered
A girl raises her hand in the crowd of children and Aislinn notices, smiling at the girl. "Yes? Do you have any questions, dear?" The children remain silent and look at the girl. The girl asks if Aislinn and Matthias could kiss, and some boys look disgusted while the other girls think it's adorable. They start talking about their dolls of Aislinn and Matthias, and they wanted to see them kiss for real, and not in a doll story. Aislinn smiles and looks at Matthias.
Mattias turned to face the little girl who had asked the question and smiled warmly at her. "I think," he began slowly, considering his words carefully as he met Aislinn's eyes, "that it would be really special if you were the one to decide when we could share a kiss." There was a brief pause before he added with a grin, "But only after our game of hide and seek. Deal?" The children squealed in delight at his offer, nodding eagerly as they started to discuss among themselves which team would win the game.
Aislinn smiled back at Matthias, amused by his smooth reply. She placed a reassuring hand on his arm before turning her attention back to the group of excited children who were now busily selecting teams and deciding who would be responsible for counting to fifty while they hid. As she watched them, a sense of contentment washed over her like sunsh
After the children decide who will count to 50, the children start running while a 10-year-old boy starts counting, and several children hide in cool places. The rules of the game were simple, the seeker would ask Aislinn and Matthias for tips only when he felt it was necessary, and he was only entitled to 10 tips on where the other children were.
As the game began, Matthias watched with amusement as the children scattered, seeking out hiding spots while the little boy started to count aloud. He turned back to Aislinn and grinned. "I think we should probably find a good spot ourselves," he murmured, nodding toward an overgrown bush nearby. "We don't want the other teams to know where we are before our time."
She smiled in agreement, and together they made their way over to the shrubbery, crouching low behind its thick leaves as they waited for the boy to get further into his count. Matthias couldn't help but feel a rush of adrenaline as he stealthily scanned the area around them, wondering which hiding places were best and where he might be able to catch someone off guard. It had been a while since he'd played hide and seek like this, and it felt good to get back into the
Suddenly, Matthias thought of something fun. He smiled mischievously at Aislinn and pushed her into the bush before entering the bush with her. The bush was hollow, and it was big enough for both of them to fit inside. "What are you doing?!" She whispers, looking at the boy who has already started looking for the children, Matthias and Aislinn.
Matthias grinned impishly as he pushed her deeper into the hollow bush, careful not to hurt her despite his strength. "Just making things a bit more interesting," he murmured with a wink before leaning back against the thick foliage and closing his eyes, listening intently for any signs of movement nearby. They'd be a tough pair to find now, hidden like this in their little green hiding spot.
Time seemed to pass slowly as they waited patiently for the game to continue, their closeness adding another layer of warmth to an already perfect day. Matthias felt content just sitting there with her, enjoying the quiet peace that surrounded them despite the din of children's laughter echoing through the air nearby. It was moments like these that made him truly cherish Aislinn, and he vowed not to let go of her again, no matter what it took.
Matthias smiled when the boy left them, going to look in an alley inside the city, where most of the children were hiding. He wrapped her legs around his hips, hiking her dress up her legs. There wasn't much room for her to squirm around to try to escape there, so if she moved or made too much noise, the children could find them and see them in that situation... Shameful. "M-Matthias!" She whispers.
"Shh," Matthias whispered in return, his lips brushing against her ear as he spoke. "You know you like it." He pressed closer to her, feeling her body heat through the thin fabric of their clothing, the flush on her cheeks telling him that she was far from unaffected by their current predicament. With a devious grin, he reached up and trailed a finger along her jawline, his touch light but unmistakably possessive. "Just remember," he breathed, "I'm the one who's going to find you."
Her breath hitched in response, and for a moment, they were both lost in the heat of the moment, ignoring everything else around them as they succumbed to desire and lust. The game seemed to fade away into the background, replaced by an intense focus on each other that left them both panting and aching for more
Matthias pulled her hips closer to his and felt her legs tighten around him. She swallows hard and runs her hand over Matthias' covered abdomen before unbuttoning his shirt and taking off his war brooches, placing them on the ground inside the bush.
Mattias' breath caught in his throat as she undid his buttons and slipped the heavy war brooches to the ground. He watched her intently, the fire in her eyes mirrored in his own. Her touch was light and curious but also hungry and demanding, sending waves of desire coursing through him with each caress.
With a groan, he lowered his head, capturing her lips in a searing kiss that left them both gasping for air when it finally ended. "You make this so difficult," he murmured hoarsely against her skin, tracing his fingers lightly down the curve of her spine before slipping underneath her dress to caress the smooth skin of her bare thigh.
She arched into his touch, gasping out a moan that made him shiver with pleasure. Her scent surrounded him, making it hard for him to think straight as he continued
When Matthias' torso was already exposed, Aislinn runs her hand over the scar on his chest. He remembers how he got that scar: He was protecting Aislinn from rebels who invaded the palace. They were going to attack her, so Matthias got in front of the attack and was stabbed in the chest. She didn't like that scar very much, for her it was a scar with a sad story. For him, it was proof of how much he loved her.
Matthias felt her fingers graze the scar on his chest and knew she was remembering that day, too. The pain was still fresh in his mind, a constant reminder of how far he would go for her. As her hand trailed higher, coming to rest on his shoulder, he closed his eyes against the pleasure that surged through him at her touch. "It doesn't matter," he whispered roughly, voice hoarse with desire. "I survived, and I'm here with you now."
He leaned in closer, pressing their bodies flush together as he deepened the kiss, his tongue darting out to tease and explore her mouth. The pressure between them grew, the air thick with need as they clung to each other, lost in a haze of lust that made it impossible to think about anything but their mutual desire.
With a growl, he slid one hand lower down her back
Aislinn started to hear the voice of the boy she was looking for, and he was getting close to the bush they were in. Aislinn blushes and covers Matthias' mouth with her hand. He is surprised for a few seconds, but then he takes her hand and starts licking between her fingers.
A soft moan escaped Aislinn as Matthias licked between her fingers, his lips and tongue sending shivers down her spine. Despite the rough edges of their situation and the need for stealth, he seemed intent on claiming her here and now, leaving no room for doubt about where they stood or what she meant to him. She leaned into the touch, her body arching into his in a silent plea for more as she lost herself in this moment with him, savoring every sensation and every sound that filled the air around them.
As the boy's voice drew closer, Matthias' grip on her tightened, his desire for her only growing hotter with each passing second. His tongue danced across the back of Aislinn's hand, teasing and tormenting until she whimpered softly in need. When he nipped at her wrist, suckling gently, she cried out
The boy quickly turns to the bush they were in and Aislinn blushes. She throws Matthias's shirt and war brooches onto his chest before unclasping her legs from around his hips. "Get dressed, quick!" She whispers as the boy approaches.
As quickly and as quietly as possible, Matthias began to dress himself while still hidden within the hollow bush with Aislinn. "Hey!" The boy shouted as they heard footsteps getting closer. They both held their breath, hoping that the others would be too busy playing to notice them hiding in plain sight. "Did you find them?" Another voice called out from somewhere nearby.
"No," replied the first boy, growing frustrated. "But I'm gonna keep looking." He wandered off, searching for them again but failing to spot their hiding spot.
When it seemed safe enough, Matthias carefully poked his head out of the bush, scanning the area before emerging fully with Aislinn by his side. The other children were still busy playing hide and seek without any idea that they'd just missed them right in front of their eyes.
He shot her a mischievous grin
After the two leave the bush and the children are still distracted looking for Matthias and Aislinn, Aislinn glares at Matthias, pouting. She starts slapping and punching Matthias' chest. "You're crazy! That boy almost sees us in that state!" She whispers in a higher tone, trying not to attract the children's attention.
Mattias laughed softly despite himself, taking her fists in his hands and pulling her close. "And where's the fun in that?" he teased with a grin. "Besides, it made for quite an interesting distraction while we waited for you to find us." He leaned down, brushing his lips against hers before adding more seriously, "I'm sorry if I embarrassed you, but I couldn't resist the temptation. You were just too enticing."
Her eyes grew wide at his words and she swallowed hard, feeling a flutter in her stomach that made it difficult to stay angry with him for long. The feel of his skin against hers was intoxicating, and the way he looked at her... well, it was enough to make any woman weak in the knees. She melted against him, unable to deny the connection that still burned between them despite everything else.
After a few seconds together like that, Aislinn grunts and slaps Matthias harder on the chest, making him grunt in pain with a smile on his face. The children finally realize they are there, and start running towards them, shouting 'We found you two!'.
"Well, well," Matthias exclaimed with a smile as the children surrounded them once more. "It seems we were too easy to find after all." He glanced at Aislinn before leaning down to scoop her up into his arms, laughing as she squealed in surprise. "I suppose you win this round," he told her, kissing her forehead.
The children cheered, eagerly mobbing the pair with hugs and laughter. Despite everything they'd been through and the challenges yet to come, for now at least, they could enjoy this moment of peace and happiness together. And who knew where it might lead?
*Suddenly, the girls stopped running around Aislinn and Matthias and looked at them with their arms crossed. The boys stopped running and looked at the girls, asking why they stopped. A girl points at Matthias, pouting. In a cute, childish voice, she says 'He promised us he would kiss Aislinn after hide and seek.'. Aislinn smiles at the girls before looking at Matthias. He smiles and lets go, leaving her on the ground. "Well, girls, our emperor in the next kingdom here, he's quite shy, you know?" Aislinn makes fun, and the girls start laughing at Matthias. He gives a half-furious smile, with a vein in his head throbbing with anger. He puts his arm around Aislinn's waist and uses his other hand to tangle in her hair, and pulls her in for a kiss, making the girls squeal with happiness.
As Matthias' arm snaked around her waist and his hand tangled in her hair, he couldn't help but grin at the sight of Aislinn looking up at him with a mix of surprise and amusement. The girls squealed with delight as they watched him pull her closer, his lips meeting hers in a kiss that was anything but chaste or shy. For this brief moment, all of their troubles seemed to melt away into the background, replaced by the happiness of simply being together.
He deepened the kiss, lost in the feel of her soft lips against his own, while the girls laughed and cheered around them. He didn't care what anyone else thought; he was going to make sure that Aislinn knew just how much she meant to him, even if it meant getting a little carried away every now and then. When they finally pulled apart, breathless and glowing, the girls erupted
The boys made disgusted faces and noises while the girls jumped with happiness. Aislinn was staring at Matthias, blushing and pouting as he looked lovingly at her. "You didn't need to have kissed like that in front of the kids..."
Mattias grinned and shrugged nonchalantly as he met her eyes. "They deserve to see a real kiss after all that talk about shyness," he teased lightly, his thumb brushing across her cheekbone. "And besides," he added with a soft chuckle, "it's not like I was forced into it."
Her blush deepened at his words and the gentle touch of his thumb on her skin, but she couldn't help but smile back up at him. The way he looked at her... it made everything else seem insignificant in comparison. As they stood there amidst the laughter and celebration of their young subjects, Matthias knew that no matter what challenges might come their way, Aislinn was the one person who would always have his heart - even if he had to get a little playful sometimes to remind her just how much.
After they left and the girls had calmed down, it was time for the picnic. The children helped Matthias and Aislinn place the tablecloth on the floor and get the baskets of food from the carriage, placing the baskets in the middle of the tablecloth. Aislinn and Matthias sit on the table while the children eat sweets and savory snacks from the various food baskets. Matthias puts his arm around Aislinn's waist, pulling her closer as they sit and hold each other, watching the children eat and have fun.
"You know," he mused quietly as they sat together watching the children enjoy themselves, "it's times like these that make me truly thankful for everything we have. All of this may not mean much to some people, but to us... well, it means the world." He paused, meeting her eyes as he continued. "I want you to know that no matter what comes our way, I will always do whatever is necessary to keep you safe and happy, Aislinn. You are my life now." His words were simple but powerful, and they held a depth of emotion that left her breathless.
She looked down for a moment, unable to speak past the lump in her throat before finally meeting his gaze again. "I know," she whispered hoarsely. "And I will always be here for you too, Matthias." She smiled up at him, her eyes shining with love and gratitude as they sat together
Matthias smiled at Aislinn and pressed his cheek against hers, purring as they stood together like that. The moon was beginning to rise, but the food in the baskets was not yet gone, and the children were not tired.
"I could stay like this forever," he murmured contentedly, savoring the feel of her warm body pressed against his and the sound of her steady breathing in his ear. It was moments like these that made him forget about everything else: politics, responsibilities, even their pasts. Here, with Aislinn by his side, all that mattered was their love for each other and the happiness they shared together.
As the moon continued its ascent into the sky, casting a soft glow over the grounds and painting the world in silvery hues, he couldn't help but wonder what tomorrow would bring. But for now, here in this moment, all that existed was this: the warmth of Aislinn's body, her scent, and the sound of her breathing as she slept against him. And it was enough. It would have to be enough.
With a sigh of contentment,
He lays Aislinn's head in his lap while she sleeps. After a few hours, when the food in the baskets runs out and the children's relatives start calling the children to sleep, Matthias wakes Aislinn up. "Just 5 more minutes..." She murmurs against his lap.
Mattias chuckled softly as he continued to stroke her hair, feeling a tenderness wash over him at the sight of her sleeping so peacefully in his lap. "I know it's tempting," he said gently, his voice hoarse with the effort not to wake her fully, "but we should probably head back soon." He glanced around, taking in the empty picnic baskets and the fading daylight before sighing deeply and straightening up.
With one last regretful look at Aislinn's peaceful face, he slowly gathered their belongings together and began to pack them away. Even as his mind wandered back to the events of the afternoon, and all that had transpired between them in such a short time, his heart remained steadfastly with her, grateful for this unexpected gift of closeness and love. As he finished tidying up, he turned back toward
When looking at Aislinn, she was still sleeping with her head against a rock. He sighs before picking her up in his arms and carrying her to the carriage. He asks the guards to take the baskets and towel and then take them to Aislinn's father's palace.
With a gentle sigh, Matthias nodded to the guards who hurriedly gathered up their belongings and loaded them into one of the waiting carriages. They would return with everything to Aislinn's father's palace once they were done, allowing her family to properly see to it that nothing was left behind. It wasn't much, but perhaps in some small way, it could be seen as a gesture of goodwill and friendship between their two houses.
Cradling Aislinn close against his chest, Matthias climbed into the carriage himself, his heart full to bursting with the memories they had made this day. No matter how hard things might get in the future, he knew that as long as they had each other, they could face anything together. As the sun dipped below the horizon and darkness began to fall around them, he closed his eyes, drifting off to sleep with Aislinn's soft
Her scent and the warmth of her body lulled him into a peaceful slumber, his dreams filled with images of their time together at the picnic. In this moment, everything else seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them and the promise of whatever lay ahead. As he slept, Matthias clung tightly to the hope that they would find a way to make it through this new reality together; that no matter how much the world tried to tear them apart, their love would be strong enough to endure.
Eventually, the carriage jostled him awake, and he found himself once more in the palace courtyard, Aislinn's father's servants hurrying about as they unloaded the baskets from the back of their mounts. The moon was high overhead now, casting a soft glow over everything, and he could see that it was well into the night. Gently