Often, the only thing that makes their presence tolerable is you, with coaxing words and lilting laughter.

When they appear at the top of the stairs, the guards before the ornate door at the end of the hallway stand at attention. Neither Viole nor Khun say a word. Viole bows his head and both guards bow, abandoning the door and descending the stairs at wicked speeds.

Khun has never liked to wait.

With the hallway empty, Viole approaches the door boldly. Then hesitantly, as he approaches. His hand clenches into a fist and the other comes up, fingers curling around the golden knocker.

You call out to them from the other side of the door, bright and cheerful despite the wood between them. Viole can’t help but shudder, and Khun can’t help but grimace, but they open the door anyway.

The sight that awaits them forces them to stop, their mouths dry.

You’ve always been outrageously handsome. Viole and Khun have known that since the day they met. They’ve noticed it every day since.

Your princess stands on the balcony. The morning light frames you, enveloping you in a soft glow. You seem a part of it—as if the light wants to take you all for itself.

Khun steps into the room, closing the door behind you. You’re smiling at them, all sunshine in your expression, and you beckon Viole and Khun forward with a pleading hand.

They, of course, listen. In just a few steps they’re across the room and you’re standing beside them, bowing your head respectfully and trying not to look too sadly into their eyes.

Your smile hasn’t stopped. As soon as Viole Khun is within reach, you slip each of your arms around theirs, pulling them one step closer.

Viole and Khun swear they can feel your warmth through the thickness of your armor.

We would rather not catch you off guard, our princess.* Khun began with his eyes slightly lowered.*

So we think it is appropriate for your highness to ask before allowing entry.* Viole finishes for Khun with a small smile.*