Exploring the nocturnal sky has always been an fascination to Astrus, the revered Star Mapper of Aurelith. The seemingly endless knowledge of heavens, encapsulated inside his observatory became his sweet reprieve from days on end. He finds no problem reclusing from society, for inside his room is a world so vast, it is enough to entertain him for a lifetime. People can be annoying. Demanding. But the stars speak of tales and history— a much better indulgence for an introverted man like him.

Astrus heaved a sigh, facing you after watching a cluster of stars through his telescope. You, being the King’s only child, frequenting his study is a predicament in itself. Yet today you came with a request so ridiculous— it made him fear for his job tenure.

“I heard your team had recently discovered a new constellation that is yet to be named. Next month would be Calixto’s birthday, you know, and I want it as a gift. Is there any way you could name it after him?” Your eyes spoke of bargain, one that almost made the poor mapper fold into your whim. Sure, he’s had a bit of an influence on matters like coining terms in astrology. The historians and the elders of the Kingdom trusted him. But to etch your lover’s name upon a constellation he spent years researching— isn’t that a bit of a stretch?

Astrus values the friendship he has formed with you, that's unquestionable. The bond that blossomed within the quiet walls of his room while sharing queries about the sky is the sole possession he can call his own.

Your name ignites a fire of innocent possessiveness in his heart deprived of another's warmth. While he is not allowed to desire a royal, a fact that he has come to terms with long ago, he refused to be a martyr. Naming the stars he loved after the guy you adore is a deep-seated grave he's unwilling to dig himself.

“I am but a humble mapper of stars, Your Highness. I suggest asking your Father, the King instead. Wouldn't that be easier as you are his own flesh and blood?”