Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Why doesn't dad just fire him?" Tommy grumbled after another annoying session of court. Techno sighed loudly not wanting to be the one to answer the obvious questions, but Wilbur had ducked away with one of the serving girls again so he had to play tutor for their youngest brother. "He has all those tax laws and he could be fucked to send some of it to the Badlands or the SMP. There's people dying and he's sitting like a fat fucking cat." Tommy could no doubt spend hours complaining about the injustices Schlatt imposed on his country lands. 

Realistically anyone could. The nation of Manberg was harsh but had the most open borders. It was a crown jewel among the Arctic Empire's vast amounts of land. Schlatt wasn't the cause of that though. Schlatt was the mouthpiece. If Tommy spent any time actually paying attention he would see the ram always glancing at his meticulous husband. Quackity was the only reason Schlatt had the title Duke and so much favor with Philza. 

"You've never even been to Manberg." Techno broke in on Tommy's rambling. "There's zero crime, zero vagrants, and no debt." Tommy gave Techno a shocked look. "Streets are always cleaned, it has the highest paying jobs in the whole Empire." 

"Why won't Dad just make him share then?" Tommy huffed. "The Badlands had a fucking plague! A plague!" Techno hated this. 

"It's not as simple as making Schlatt do anything." Techno pulled his younger brother into a side hallway, at least then they would be out of the way from others. "It's not even Schlatt that has to be convinced of something." Tommy's nose wrinkled up at his brother.

"It's one of those...games." Tommy huffed in irritation. "Shit makes no sense. Everyone knows everyone else is playing so why play at all if it's all secret?" Techno gave a quiet chuckle. 

"Because people live and die by what the royal court decides and people want more for themselves than they are willing to say outloud." Tommy just shook his head looking disgruntled. 

"Wils right. You belong on the throne. I can't stand the obnoxious shit." Tommy griped and started to walk along again when there was the sound of skin hitting skin and a yelp. Techno and Tommy looked at one another and proceeded slowly. 

"Don't ever, ever slip me last minute shit like that, again." It was Schlatt's voice, Techno reached for Tommy, but his brother kept moving forward out of reach. 

"Tommy, no." Techno hissed but the younger man had a determined look. There's another yelp and a thudding sound. 

"You understand, I will throw your pathetic ass back in the fucking gutter where I found you. Remember that? The penniless avain whore!" 

"Hey!" 

"Tommy!" Techno dashed forward as soon as Tommy did but only managed to jerk his brother back after he had shoved Schlatt hard. Schlatt fell rather hard but his eyes were fixed in daggers on Techno and Tommy as he promptly stood up again. 

"You don't fucking hit someone your married to!" Tommy yelled at the older man and Schlatt just laughed. He kept laughing as he walked closer and sneered in Tommy's face. Techno cleared his throat, reminding Schlatt it wasn't just Tommy he was dealing with. "You're a fucking monster." Schlatt stepped back and looked over at Quackity who had since picked himself off the ground with a swollen cheek. 

"Bade, did I hit you?" Schlatt asked in an icy tone.

"Of course not. I fell down." Quackity answered back smoothly, already pressing himself to his husband's side, not making eye contact with either Tommy or Techno. 

"What?" Tommy snapped out squirming in Techno's arms, trying to get out of the hold. "I heard it! We heard him hit you and throw you down." 

"Tommy." Techno was pleading that his brother would shut up. Schlatt scoffed and brought a hand up to Quackity's face. He cupped his husband's face and pressed a rather passionate kiss to the younger man's lips. The kiss was eagerly reciprocated. 

"W-what?" Tommy sounded confused and uncertain. Techno jerked his brother's arm forcing the younger to follow him. "But...but he…" Schlatt grinned at the princes tugging his husband firmly to his chest. 

"Was helping my clumsy husband up?" Schlatt asked back. Tommy was angry still, Techno could tell. Tommy opened his mouth but Schlatt spoke first. "Tell you what, I'll forgive the confusion. I'm a generous man after all. You two just go about you day and I'll pretend I never saw you." 

"That's more than kind." Techno replied before Tommy could. Techno pulled his little brother away leaving the couple on their own again. Tommy protested the whole way. 

"I can't believe you just let him get away with that!" Tommy barked at Techno once they had made it to their wing of the castle. "He hit him! You know, I know, both of them knew it." Tommy stomped over to the reclining couches in their room and flopped himself down. "I knew he was a shit person. I fucking knew it. He shouldn't be a fucking Duke." 

"Honestly, you probably made it worse on him." Techno huffed at his younger brother earning a glare from Tommy. 

"How would what I did make it worse?" Tommy huffed. "You could have actually done something. You're the crowned prince. You could have taken Quackity away from him." Techno sat himself down with a deep breath. 

"Tommy, that's not in my power to do. That's not even in dad's power to do." 

"But he was fucking hitting-" 

"Quackity is more in control of things than Schlatt is. Schlatt wouldn't do anything to actually harm Quackity." 

"Hitting is actual fucking harm!" Tommy stood up and was now in front of Techno. "Would you stand by if it was dad hitting mom?" 

"Phil wouldn't hit-"

"Would you let him hit mom?" Tommy growled, slamming his hands down on the arms of Techno's chair. Techno pushed his younger brother back. 

"It's not mom and dad, Tommy. This is the exact shit me and Wilbur have been trying to get through your head. It's not black and white, there not a right or wrong. Its: This is okay and this is okay but less okay." Tommy glared at his older brother. 

"It's wrong." Tommy repeated back and Techno shook his head. 

"It's not either of our marriages." Techno turned away from Tommy wanting away from the younger. 

"If it was dad hitting mom you would stop him!" Tommy yelled after his older brother. "Because its fucking wrong!" Techno slammed the door to his private wing and bolted it. Never again, never again would he let Wilbur talk him into babysitting for Tommy. The kid just didn't understand. 

The soft rapt at his door made Techno look up from his book. Hopefully it was Wilbur telling him Tommy was calmed down now. He didn't really think about the fact he was just in his lounging clothes. It was late, his brothers had seen him in his plain trousers and loose undershirt more times than he could count. He didn't bother taking his reading glasses off either, he planned to go right back to his books once he finished his chat with Wilbur. 

Only, that was definitely not Wilbur. Quackity was standing at the door looking around with an anxious expression. "May I come in?" Techno didn't hesitate to step back and allow the other into his room. It was likely Schlatt sent him to ensure Techno wouldn't say anything to his father. Techno turned back as he shut the door and felt his face warm when he realized Quackity had made himself at home on his bed. Oh. Oh. Oh.

"You...you don't need to do that." Techno said walking forward. How the hell did he not notice Quackity's lack of clothes when he entered? Probably the damn cloak laid out under the avain. Quackity quirked a brow at Techno. "I'm not-" Techno felt his mouth draw shut when Quackity flexed his wings out behind himself. They looked like pure gold. 

"Piglins like gold, yeah?" Quackity's voice was silky, smooth, and practiced. This was definitely dangerous territory. 

"They are...lovely." It was breathtaking to see them, but he couldn't let himself get distracted. "But you don't need to-" 

"My husband has insisted." Quackity hummed, not at all shy that he was exposed in front of Techno. "The indiscretion was just a misunderstanding." Techno felt his face turn red when the other so casually spread his legs open. A waiting and trimmed cunt sat nestled between the man's legs. Techno couldn't really stand it. He strode forward, climbed onto the bed, and- 

"I do not need your body spread before me." Techno huffed pulling the cloak around Quackity. Quackity was surprised and opened his mouth to say something, but Techno pulled Quackity up from the bed along with himself. He tied the cloak around the man in a suitable manner. Quackity just seemed dumbfounded by it. Techno led Quackity to the door and stepped out with him. "Say what you have to, but I cannot be put in that position." Quackity was quiet for a long moment then sucked in a sharp breath and nodded. 

"Thank you." It was so soft Techno almost didn't catch it. Quackity was quick to flee the wing after that. Techno sighed and leaned himself against the door frame. 

"Why was Quackity here, and what did you mean?" Tommy was peeking out of his room. Little shit! 

"Tommy-" Tommy stepped closer to his older brother. 

"What did you mean? What position was he putting you in? Did he ask you for help?" Tommy demanded and Techno wanted to shake the child. 

"Schlatt sent him here to cover his ass." Techno huffed out turning to go back into his room. Tommy stopped the door from shutting in his face.

"Why didn't Schlatt come? Why would he send Quackity?" Techno wished Tommy would shut up, he wished Tommy would go away. 

"Because the peace offering was Quackity." Techno put it as delicately as he could. Tommy stared blankly at his brother for a long moment then his eyes went wide. 

"That's- that's-"

"That's the game, Tommy." Techno sighed. "This is how it is played." Tommy just looked horrified. 

"And...And Quackity just agreed?" Tommy scrambled for a place to sit down, he plopped down hard on a stool. 

"I'm more worried about who actually came up with the plan Tommy." Tommy's face screwed up. 

"What? But it's obviously Schlatt." Tommy argued and Techno shook his head. 

"No, to you it's Schlatt. To me, I know it was Quackity's idea." Tommy looked dumbfounded at the claim. 

"But...but Schlatt and-" 

"Tommy, a prince is better than a Duke." Techno grabbed his book up again. "And Quackity has been calling the shots since he met Schlatt. Just watch them long enough and you'll see the way their conversation flows between them." Tommy waited for a while clearly wanting more from his brother, but Techno gave nothing else up. 

Techno skillfully avoided babysitting Tommy the next few days. Never before had he taken the task of avoiding Wilbur so seriously. Wilbur knew all of his spots to hide and if he was caught by his brother it's not like the crown prince could be seen just dead sprinting down the hall screaming that he wouldn't take their younger brother. Avoiding Wilbur had to be in a tactful manner, or it was the wrath of their parents. What Techno had forgotten to take into account was he also needed to avoid Quackity as well. 

"Do I address you as prince Technoblade or sir Technoblade?" Quackity's voice had made him jump. The book fell from his hand as he was met with the sight of the avain's wings spread out behind himself. It fitted Quackity too well. The man wore dark slacks and a dark blue shirt that clung tightly to his frame. Quackity knew how he looked. 

"Coming to see me in private areas of the castle should not be a habit." Techno replied back trying to sound cold. He had heard his father do it towards serving girls all the time. Quackity wasn't put off. He bent down picking up the book Techno had been reading. 

"Blood of Lambs," Quackity gave a smirk. "Isn't the narrator the killer in this?" Techno gave a nod feeling himself shift in his seat, apparently the movement was an invitation, because his lap was suddenly full. Quackity was bold, straddling Techno out in the open. Techno stilled himself, waiting as Quackity flipped through the book. "He was crazy the whole book, just pretending like he never knew he commited the murders. It must be hard to pull off that sort of internal manipulation of one's self." 

"Much like the abused spouse who is beaten every night?" Techno replied and Quackity set the book aside. 

"You really are the brains of the family." Quackity sighed it out as if he was caught in the act then he leaned in close to Techno wrapping his arms around the prince's neck. "What gave me away?" 

"Your husband need for your approval after every word he says." Techno stared into dark mirth filled eyes. He had a devil on his lap. 

"I've told him about that nasty habit." Quackity hissed in irritation. "People will just think I can't keep my eyes off you." Quackity mocked his husband's voice then leaned in closer to Techno. "Why did you turn me away?" 

"I wasn't interested." Techno replied with a growl only getting laughed at. Quackity grinned down at him and none too subtly gripped Techno's cock through his clothes. He took a sharp breath at the touch, shuttering. 

"You're plenty interested." Quackity hummed in his ear. "It's the wings right. All pretty and silky gold." Techno saw the wings flutter behind Quackity and felt his heart pulse oddly in his chest. The wings definitely got to him. "So, what's the truth?" Quackity hummed still stroking Techno through his clothing. It was hard to think, but Techno managed. 

"I'm not killing your husband." Quackity rocked his hips down this time, pressing his body firmly to Techno's. It made the prince grab the duck's hips roughly. Quackity chirped so sweetly in his ear. 

"Mm, you could though, couldn't you?" Quackity whispered it to Techno, his hips rolling faster and Techno tried to still the smaller man, but it was hard to focus with the constant friction. "He's so mean to me, you would be sweet, wouldn't you?" Quackity made Techno look him in the eyes by cupping the man's face lovingly in both hands. "You want inside me, don't you?"

"You're married." Techno huffed, but didn't fight his pants being undone and pulled to his mid thigh. He was surprised how fast Quackity had done the same for himself. An airy laugh left the duck's throat.

"So don't be loud." Quackity mused, guiding Techno's cock into himself with a sharp gasp. "Mmn, fuck." Quackity's movements nearly halted, clearly; he had not been ready as he thought for Techno's cock. "God, you're like sitting on a rod." Quackity whined and grabbed one of Techno's hands making him flush as he guided it to his cunt. "Help a guy out," Quackity mused, guiding Techno's fingers slowly on how to play and tease his clit. A moan from Quackity told Techno he learned quickly. Slowly, Quackity sank further down Techno's cock. 

"First time?" Quackity asked once Techno had hilted in him entirely.  Techno found himself nodding, afraid to speak. He had already nearly finished several times while Quackity was simply trying to fit him in. He didn't trust himself to talk at all. "Relax." Quackity pressed kisses against his neck. "It's supposed to be fun. I won't tell if the crowned prince has a sensitive trigger." Techno groaned at the words and wished he could hide his face. 

When Quackity started to move it was heaven. Techno held back his sounds though, only grunting now and then as the other man slowly started to ride his cock. There were more soft gentle kisses to his neck and face. He was thankful Quackity was only encouraging, it made it easier to relax and enjoy himself. Soon enough he rocked himself up into Quackity and made the duck squeak in surprise. 

"Ah! F-fuck!" Quackity gasped looking at Techno with a pleased smile. "Mm, could be all yours." The purred words made Techno shudder. He roughly pulled Quackity back down onto his cock making the smaller man gasp again. He liked hearing that from Quackity. He rolled his hips up harder, wanting to press deeper. It was the Piglin side of himself coming out, wanting to breed such a pretty mate with such perfect golden wings. 

"Mine." Techno growled the word and felt Quackity shudder as he thrust harder into the wet warm around his cock. 

"Yes, yours." Quackity moans in his ear. "I'll be all yours. I'll have all the little piglins for you, you want." The words were sinfully sweet to hear. It made him move faster. He wanted to breed Quackity, see the duck pregnant with his children. He pressed harder into Quackity feeling himself bottom out, hitting Quackity's cervix and making a yelp come from the duck. "O-oh fuck, you're...you're really going to breed me." Techno heard excited flutters from Quackity's wings.

"You'll look beautiful with my children." Techno groaned to Quackity. 

"Mm, Techno...I-" A loud moan escaped Quackity that seemed to echo around the room. His cunt squeezed impossibly tighter around Techno's cock and the Piglin couldn't help himself. He pressed his cock deep making sure rested against the other's cervix. Both of them were breathing hard then, simply looking at one another in blissful awe. 

When Quackity finally decided to move he was slow and careful. Techno huffed a little and helped the best he could. He steadied Quackity against himself once both of them were fully dressed. He pressed his lips gently to the other man's temple. Quackity looked up at him. 

"You'll do it then?" Quackity asked and Techno nodded. He had little choice in the matter now. He couldn't help but think of the fact his cum now dripped between Quackity's thighs and stained his clothes.

"Yes, I will handle the matter. Can't have the next princes or princesses as far from the capital as Manberg is." Techno answered and Quackity chuckled before gently tugging Techno down toward him. 

"Should I come by later to make sure your seed took, love?" Quackity mused and Techno leaned the rest of the way forward kissing Quackity roughly. With a devilish husband to rule with him, surely Techno had just secured the line of the Arctic Empire far into the future. 

Chapter Text

"What are you thinking?" Wilbur's smooth voice broke the quiet air of the study. Techno knew eventually he would get caught by his brother, but he had hoped it would take longer. 

"That you are the family scholar so why do I have to be the one teaching Tommy." Techno hummed back, setting his glasses down on his desk while Wilbur walked in, shutting and locking the door as well. 

"I'm not a scholar. You know better than that." Wilbur huffed sitting himself down. "As your spymaster, I thought you should know to be less obvious about your...conquests." Wilbur had paused before he said the word conquests. Techno gave a click of his tongue. 

"I've quieted what I could, but the maids were in an absolute frenzy over seeing you ravish someone in the upper library. Golden wings were brought up." Wilbur pushed and Techno shifted slightly. 

"What of it?" Techno was not going to admit to anything unless given good enough reason to. "Maids make up stories all the time."

"Does Tommy?" Wilbur replied, leaning forward in his chair, smiling. "Because our darling little brother has already asked his other mentors about what it means when someone visits in the middle of the night. Why would someone want to be two faced?" 

"Fucking brat." Techno groaned loudly, bringing a hand up to rub the bridge of his nose. "Fine. Yes, I have been with Quackity." Wilbur gave a loud giggle that was unnatural out of a grown man but he stood up. His hands slammed on the desk and he was smiling. 

"Awww, my brother has his first tryst!" Techno covered his face with both hands. "That's so adorable! And you go after a fine little ducky too. Father is going to adore that." Techno moved his hands back down and cleared his throat. 

"Well he's married." Techno reminded his brother and Wilbur chuckled. 

"Well, not for much longer I assume." Wilbur purred it back, winking at his brother. Well at least he didn't have to explain that part. 

"Can you do what you do best then?" Techno asked. Wilbur kept a smug grin. 

"Are you going to help watch Tommy again?" Wilbur replied back. Techno nodded, though he really did not want to drag his brother around more, he would if it meant Wilbur was going to help him. "Perfect, I haven't had much time to spend with Sally this month. Woman has been trying to get me alone all week, and I have no idea why." 

"You're a spymaster who can't figure out why his lover is trying to contact him privately?" Techno asked and Wilbur rolled his eyes. 

"I don't spy on Sally. She's…" Wilbur grinned for a moment, not looking at Techno. "I may truly marry her one day. To hell with the royal slag, I have never met a more gorgeous woman in all my life." Wilbur laughed, joyously and Techno rolled his eyes. All good for his brother, Techno on the other hand still had his future bride to secure. He held a small fold of paper to his brother. 

"Try to make sure it's somewhere very public." Techno instructed and Wilbur nodded. 

"Of course brother!" That cat-like smile never left Wilbur's face. "I want the whole world to know just how happy I am with Sally." There's a wink as Wilbur opens the door up. "Tom, Tech is taking you for the rest of the week. Try not to slow him down." Wilbur called outside the door and Tommy entered the study a moment later, looking none too happy. 

"I know he's only dumping me here for Sally." Tommy pouted at his oldest brother and Techno gave a sigh. 

"No, we need to go over some protocols." Techno motioned to the chair Wilbur had been sat in. "Like not asking everyone in a castle why your brother had people see him in the middle of the night." Tommy's face shot red and he looked away from Techno. 

"Your grace!" Quackity turned to see Wilbur walking down the hall with a smile on his lips. Quackity put his guard up instantly. Techno was one thing, but Wilbur was another matter entirely. Quackity dipped his head respectfully as he would do to any member of the royal family and he was surprised when Wilbur mused back at him. "A little formal for brother-in-laws, don't you think?" Quackity glanced around and motioned Wilbur into his rooms. Both stepped inside. 

"Watch your mouth!" Quackity snapped as soon as the door was shut. Wilbur just laughed.

"Aww, Quackity," Wilbur was in seconds too close and Quackity had no time to stop before the other man had grabbed his wrists and pinned him to the door. "What did you do to my brother?" The tone was deadly, but with a grinning smile Wilbur enjoyed himself. "Because Techno doesn't play fast and loose with the rules like this. That's your speed of things." Wilbur's dagger was very close to Quackity's neck. "Only the truth now. I have a crown to protect." Quackity glared at the man. 

"I'm sick of being called a whore and getting smacked around and called worthless when I do every fucking thing!" Quackity snapped back. "I am the only reason Schlatt has any fucking position of power." Wilbur nodded with a hum but his knife didn't go away. 

"You know if my brother ends up the same as Schlatt-" 

"Why would I kill my emperor?" Quackity asked back, making Wilbur chuckle. 

"You will make a fun empress, won't you?" Wilbur's knife dropped away as did his hand. Quackity rubbed at his wrists. 

"You're the spymaster?" Wilbur smirked at the question, walking himself backwards. 

"Of sorts. Technically our mother has that role, but much like my brother is crowned prince; I am the cloaked one." Wilbur's hands brushed against a wall and it slid open with a low rumble. Quackity's eyes widened. 

"Your husband is on his way, do look respectful, your majesty." Wilbur mocked a bow and disappeared as the wall slid back into place. Quackity gathered himself quickly. This was getting more fun as time went on. Having Techno's support opened more allies up than he thought it would. 

The door to the room pushed open and Quackity spun to greet Schlatt. The ram hybrid was day drunk and as usual made his first stop at Quackity. The kiss is expected as is the fondling a groping, but Quackity is able to convince his husband away from much more than that. Promising hours of love making later that evening instead. Poor bastard, Quackity thought, managing to get the ram into bed. He leaned over placing another loving kiss on the man's lips. He felt worse for Schlatt's son in this ordeal. Tubbo really was a sweet kid. 

Quackity was as muted as ever at dinner. Schlatt seemed more affectionate than usual as well. Techno ignored the ram as much as possible. It was thoroughly annoying how many times Techno would hear a giggle from Quackity and glance up to see Schlatt mumbling into the duck's ear. "Easy." Techno heard Wilbur's voice next to him. He was smiling smugly at his brother. "It's almost over." Not soon enough in Techno's opinion.

"May prosperity reign over the empire." Philza had stood up, the meal was ending then. Techno glanced at his brother who gave the slightest nod. "May each of you return home and continue to grow our empire. We could not have grown without the support and-" 

"Schlatt." Quackity's voice was practically a shriek. The duck's eyes were wide as his husband was clutching at his chest the man seemed speechless then started to suddenly gasp loudly. "Schlatt!" Quackity's panic was rising those nearby were coming to help him with the ram but Schlatt was knocking away hands. 

"What's happening?" Tommy's voice shakily sounded out. 

"Wilbur, bring the doctor." Philza's voice boomed out and Wilbur nodded while their father went to tend to Schlatt with Kristin nearby as well. Quackity had been pushed back and was sobbing into his hands begging for Schlatt to knock off his joke and prank. 

"Techno, take Tommy out." Techno didn't hesitate to grab his younger brother and leave the dining hall. Tommy was quiet, shell shocked. As much as the young man liked to brag he would be the best fighter in the kingdom, this was the first real death the young man was seeing. Techno knew it would leave an impression. 

"Is...is Schlatt really going to die?" Tommy asked once they were much further down the hall. Techno glanced over at him. 

"Possibly, mind your tongue. Someone might think it was you." Tommy's eyes went wide at the news and he stuttered for a moment before he realized Techno's amusement. 

"Jerk!" Tommy huffed pushing his brother. Techno smirked slightly as Tommy went on insulting him. Hopefully everything went off without a hitch back in the dining hall. Techno trusted Wilbur after all. Wilbur never wanted the throne and loved his role to be spymaster, much more. Wilbur and Quackity were the only people who could betray him and at this point their hands were as red as his. 

Techno watched both his parents hug Quackity and Tubbo as the pair stood together next to Schlatt's coffin. Tubbo was dressed much like his father would have been, a perfect outfit, trimmed to show his muscles, making him look less like the recently declared Duke, and more as if his father had gotten lighter and longer hair. Quackity was the picture of grace he always had been with his husband and even now wore overly elegant form fitting clothing. It was what his husband would have wanted. A Blake widow's dress with long flowing sleeves and an elegant skirt that touched the floor. 

Tubbo's eyes were red as were Quackity's, neither of them looked well. Techno heard his mother whispering blessings to both Tubbo and Quackity. His father whispered apologizes. His parents then stood with Quackity and Tubbo, holding the pair out, comforting them. His parents obviously felt terrible that there had been nothing to do for Schlatt. Quackity grieved over his husband as anyone would expect and refused to start the funeral until his step son was present. 

When it was Techno's turn he followed his parents' lead. Stepping close and hugging Tubbo mumbling soft apologies, then came Quackity. Puffy red eyes from crying hardly subtracted from the pretty face. Techno stepped close hugging Quackity in an appropriate manner, but his cloak hid the sneaky hands that grabbed at his body. "Thank you." It sounded like the quivering words of a mourning husband, but the way Quackity's hands were much too close to his inner thigh said enough for him. Techno pulled away after the moment, a fresh set of tears were rolling down Quackity's cheeks for Wilbur and Tommy's passby the mourns. Meanwhile Techno had to move himself from the spotlight, though he wasn't impossible to find among the crowd. 

"How do we secure Tubbo?" Wilbur mumbled to his brother as he joined him near the drinks. Techno glanced around and saw Tommy chatting and joking with one of their knights. A young man who was coming up in the ranks. Part enderman, but kind hearted with a firm belief in people. 

"Have Tommy introduce Ramboo to Tubbo." Wilbur gave him a confused look. 

"Wouldn't it be wiser to just have Tommy engaged." Wilbur mumbled and Techno shook his head. 

"Tommy would never go through with it. Ranboo is the kind touch Tubbo needs after his father. We can give him that and provide for their flourishing companionship down the line." Techno made the gesture for Wilbur to leave and stop arguing. Wilbur tutted, but put on a grin as he headed over to Tommy. 

"Should I ask?" Philza's voice didn't surprise Techno. Techno glanced at his father then offered his father a cup of wine. Philza smiled, taking the drink and sipping it. 

"Tubbo seems lost and Quackity is in no state to help the boy heal. I suggested Tommy introduce one of our knight captains to Tubbo." Philza made a face. 

"Dream?" Techno held back a laugh at the question. No one in their right mind would give Dream an ounce of power above his station regardless of how excellent his skills were. Anyone could see the man was power hungry. 

"Not even if it were my body in the coffin." Techno assured his father. "Ranboo." That made Philza smile some. 

"Ranboo would be good for him, wouldn't he." Philza chuckled and patted his son's back. "It's events like this that almost make me go through with retirement. You would lead better than me." 

"The people love you." Techno argued and Philza nodded. 

"They also love you, from what your mother tells me." Philza's voice drops for a moment as he leans in closer to his son. "Your mother also tells me of your arrangement with the Lord of Manberg." Techno stiffened and his eyes met his mother's. Kristin was still consoling Quackity, but when her eyes met Techno's there was an exchange of unspoken words. Fucking in the private royal library was hardly private. 

"And?" Techno replied with a stiff tone. 

"Careful." Philza hummed in amusement. "Like father like son though. Your mother was the same way, low birth but planned her way to the top. Intelligence with a pretty face is rare, I'm glad you recognize it." Philza had the usual love struck smile when he looked at Kristin. "You have my blessing to proceed, but we are watching." Philza set the empty wine glass down and moved away. Techno let out a slow breath, at least his father didn't fear ill intent from his hand. 

The funeral proceedings lasted much longer than Techno had wanted to spend on it, especially when he had to stare so often at Quackity in the silk outfit that wrapped too pleasantly around his body. He had already made up his mind that it would look just as wonderful, torn off the duck's body, and scattered around the suddenly very private rooms Quackity now had. However Quackity had a role to play, he needed to console his stepson and had been doing so amazingly well. Techno assumed the emotions there were true ones. Quackity looked at the young man with care and love that a mother would have and Tubbo returned it back. Techno made a correct move introducing Ranboo then, Quackity will appreciate it later surely. 

"Excuse me." Techno had been rather lost in thought when the man spoke up. He knew this man very well, a dignitary of one of the further off SMP nations they ruled over, Eret. He was another pretty face of the courts, but Techno was unimpressed with him. Eret was sly, but not someone who woke a fire in him. "Can I expect to see you at the send off ball?" The correct answer was yes, but Eret had grabbed his forearm gently, smiling up at him warmly. Flirting  

"I plan to retire early to my rooms." Techno darted his eyes away from the man in front of him and gently pulled his arm away. "My brother needs me, excuse me." Techno walked stiffly towards Wilbur who glanced over as he caught the motion and look from Techno. Wilbur made the hurry up gesture and Techno moved to stand next to him. 

"Even at funerals?" Wilbur mused and Techno rolled his eyes. 

"I have already planned my future empress." Techno answered back and Wilbur nodded, dipping his head towards Quackity. 

"He's absolutely livid with that little scene." Wilbur smirked. "Hoped you weren't planning on visiting him." 

"He'll want to secure me. That look isn't for me." Techno kept a grin to himself as another, young woman this time, suitor was coming up to ask him about his ball attendance. 

Techno tapped Quackity's door unsurprised when the windower's son answered the door. Tubbo still looked unwell, but peering into the room he saw Ranboo had already been invited closer to the family than he would have originally thought. "Crowned Prince." Tubbo answered, letting the door fall open wider. Quackity was lounging on his own acrossed a couch. Likely the family had been discussing plans, apparently Ranboo had gained plenty of goodwill from whatever Tommy had told Tubbo. 

"Apologizes, I can return later." Tubbo shook his head at Techno's words. 

"No, no." Tubbo said, taking a deep breath. "Mother, Lord Manberg, was insisting I visit the ball and make my appearance." Techno gave a slight nod. 

"Yes, though I do hope you won't steal our knight captain." Techno mused and Tubbo looked back at the enderman who was standing up and bowing stiffly to Quackity. 

"Tommy was right...he is...oddly comforting." Tubbo's eyes swept over the enderman as Ranboo approached them. The knight naturally offered his arm wordlessly to Tubbo. 

"I can escort the Duke to the ballroom." Ranboo chirped up as Tubbo stepped from the room. Techno would shift himself aside. 

"That would be appreciated. I have matters to settle with the Lord." Tubbo looked uneasy at Techno's words and his eyes flashed to Quackity who waved his step son off. Tubbo took Ranboo's arm, and looked down the hall. "Funeral rights to be held in Manberg and all that." Tubbo nodded and pulled Ranboo with him. 

"The Lord knows my opinion on this matter, I will leave you two to discuss it." Tubbo answered a few steps away now. Techno watched the younger man lean heavily against the knight captain as they walked.

"Putting my stepson under the spell of that enderman feels like an insult." Quackity's voice was crisp, clear. Techno wasn't surprised at all. He looked back to Quackity and couldn't help his grin. 

"Sir Beloved is an excellent knight captain." Techno stepped into the room, shutting the door behind him. "Even more fitting he stays beside Tubbo when you come here." Quackity didn't look any happier at these words. 

"Is that a threat?" Quackity was up on his feet in a moment, eyes narrower on Techno. "Is that why you let those whores paw at you? You know I can and will ruin you." Quackity hissed. Techno couldn't stop the smile on his lips. He had picked an excellent empress indeed. "I am not your toy nor is my son." Quackity had swept himself forward unafraid. Techno didn't hesitate to grab the outstretched arm and jerk the Lord closer to himself. 

"Jealousy is very becoming of you." Techno cooed at him and Quackity's free hand pressed against his chest. The fingers curled into buttons and tore at them roughly, satisfying clicks of popping buttons, then gentle tinks as they hit against the ground. Techno pressed his mouth over Quackity's, and it was just the fire he wanted to feel. "Letting dignitaries get into your head." Techno said against the man's mouth. 

"Do you let them in your bed?" Quackity breathed back at him and Techno pushed the smaller man back down against the couch. Both of Quackity's arms were around his neck, and Techno had been right about the silky dress looking better torn. 

"Your claim to me is here." Techno mused, his hand pressing against Quackity's lower stomach. "It matters more who is in your sheets, doesn't it." He was nipping and sucking marks into Quackity's neck and shoulders, a grin at his lips after each mark. Soft but pleased sounds fell off the duck's lips as his body arched towards Techno's. 

"What I do with my mouth and body is not your concern." Quackity answered. Wrong answer as Techno pressed apart the man's legs, not sparing him a stretch before he pulled his cock free and pressed into the wonderfully warm cunt. Quackity cried loudly in shock, but a moan fell from his lips moments later as he looked up at Techno with watery eyes. 

"This mouth," Techno moved a hand up cupping Quackity's cheek, a thumb traced over the man's lips and he thrusted roughly into Quackity. The smaller man moaned lowly, and Techno passed his thumb between Quackity's lips. There wasn't hesitation as Quackity sucked wetly at it moaning around his thumb. "Is mine." Techno growled, another rough thrust, and he pressed his thumb down hard against Quackity's tongue forcing a gagging sound from the duck and making tears roll off his cheek. "Just like this body is." He made sure to press himself deep this time so he would press against Quackity's womb. The duck moaned louder around the thumb in his mouth this time nodding. 

Techno didn't slow his movements pulling his thumb back and smirking down as he wiped a trail of spit across Quackity's cheek with it. Quackity was panting under him, moaning as each hard rock of his hips brought the piglin's cock hammering into him. "No one. No. One. Will ever, ever see you debauched like this again." Techno growled, getting a nod from Quackity. "You will ask me before you act." 

"Give me the same." The audacity, the bravery. Techno leaned down kissing Quackity roughly as he pulled Quackity's hips harder against his own. 

"Then forgive me for securing your son under crown control." Quackity moaned up into his mouth nodding. Techno rolled his hips forward harder and harder. He wanted to make sure Quackity was pregnant, he needed his future queen swollen with children. A smug grin went across his lips. "Not even a day in the ground and you warm your bed with me." Quackity shuddered and grinned up at the other man. 

"I wish you would have come to me the night he died. The smell of you on my sheets that night would have been better." Quackity's words were sinful and only served to make Techno feel a pleasant pooling sensation in his stomach. He let out a low groan. They were both chasing their  finishes. "Our first conquest, we should have been celebrating." 

"You're an absolute devil." Techno groaned, smirking down at Quackity who was grinning back at him. "I would have fucked you over his burial mound." Quackity moaned loudly at them. Both of them knew how twisted and cold the other was and they enjoyed every moment of it. 

"The bastard deserves to see how a real man fucks." Quackity pulled Techno closer to him, he was close, Techno wasn't far behind. 

"Nothing would be prettier than seeing you dripping cum over his grave stone." Quackity's wings flexed out and his legs wrapped tightly around Techno. They both came, kissing one another deeply, passionately. Low pleased moans bubbled through both of their throats. 

"If you don't marry me, I'll kill you." Quackity purred against the man's lips. Techno chuckled softly. 

"I would never let my empress go unattended." Techno smirked. 

"...poor thing. Pregnant with his late husband's child." Quackity ignored the words as he walked alongside Tubbo. Ranboo on his son's left side, they were arm in arm as they were most days anymore. Tubbo shot a heated look at gossiping women making them silent. Pride at his son's initiative warmed his chest. He would never regret growing so close with his step son. 

"Mother, are you sure this gala won't be too much?" Tubbo asked once again before they reached the doors to the entry hall. Quackity gave his son a sweet smile and brushed a hand through his hair. 

"Even pregnant I am tougher than I look." Quackity assured his son, smiling, Tubbo returned the look then glanced at Ranboo. 

"Are you prepared?" Tubbo asked the knight. A nervous smile was on Ranboo's lips. 

"Just the entire empire ready to question our short courting period, right? Ranboo said it uneasily. Tubbo gave a soft sigh. 

"The Emperor and Empress already gave their blessing for us." Tubbo reminded the enderman. "You might have been their king captain, but you are my husband-to-be now. They respect it and others will see that." Tubbo assured his fiancee, but Ranboo's tail swished nervously behind him. 

"Show no fear." Quackity chirped up from next to his son, gaining the attention of both young men. He smiled at the pair then stepped in front of them, looking them over with a critical parental eye. 

Tubbo had picked the design for their current clothes. Tubbo's own were a far cry from what his father would wear. Instead of something like a suit to show power, Tubbo allowed his own physical body to display power. The young man was fit and muscular after all one had to be to swing large axes around like Tubbo did. His shirt mocked what Quackity was often forced to wear, but less frills to the half top, simply sleeveless, and a plain dark green that stopped just at his stomach. It displayed his abs, showing strength and youth. The pants were black, and tight against his legs showing the muscles in them as well. The forest green cloak that wrapped around his body brought the look together well.

Ranboo's outfit was more of mocking a knight's leather armor. Sleeveless, black, and it covered the whole of his upper body. There were inlays of a rich green to match Tubbo's own clothes. The pants were less tight on him than Tubbos, but still made his legs look thinner. Taking a look at the pair side by side, even with Ranboo being over a foot taller than Tubbo, Tubbo looked stronger than his fiancee and was the obvious provider. Something people would want to see out of the Duke of Lamanberg, as Tubbo had renamed the country. 

"Chins up, walk slightly behind Tubbo and any questions simply refer back to Tubbo for the answers. It shows strength in your bond and you seek his approval." Quackity instructed carefully. "I am right behind both of you." Ranboo nodded at the advice, but Tubbo surged forward hugging Quackity tight. 

"Thank you." Tubbo mumbled, making Quackity smile. He hugged his son back then gestured the young man forward to be announced. Tubbo took his fiancee's hand and walked forward with Ranboo just slightly behind him in step. A smirk crossed Quackity's lip. He really would need to thank Techno for introducing his son to someone so compliant. 

Chapter Text

Techno felt all the air leave his lungs. Quackity was absolutely stunning. The small baby bump had been purposely emphasized with his outfit. It was still something most would consider motherly, mocking the same style of dress Kristin often wore, but instead of a true skirt it was very baggy pants styled to look like a skirt. Quackity wasn't wearing black either, as Kristin often did, but his usual dark blue color with his neat wings opened on either side of him, resting there as part of the display. One item stood out on the outfit though. 

Unless you were a part of the imperial family, it was unlikely you would know the significance of the item. Techno knew it right away, it was his own craftsmanship displayed on his future husband. A tight, almost collar like golden necklace with a deep green emerald embedded into the center. The emerald had been done by hand, shaped like a dagger. It looked more elegant on the duck than Techno had imagined it would. The piece was an engagement promise, one Techno intended to follow through on. Techno almost stepped forward when Quackity got closer, but Wilbur's hand stilled his brother. 

Quackity turned to face the whole of the hall, Ranboo and Tubbo just slightly behind the duck. Techno wished to see more than just the back of the back, but Wilbur held him in place. 

"I would like to thank the Angel of Death and Lady Death herself for all the wonderful support you have given both myself and my son." Quackity gave an affectionate smile over his shoulder to both Kristin and Philza. "Effective of this gala, I am stepping down from the position of Lord Lamanberg and passing the title onto my son's fiancee, Knight-Commander, Sir Beloved." Quackity moved himself off to the side, standing next to Tommy who instantly made a space for Quackity. 

The whole of the hall clapped, cheered as Tubbo led Ranboo forward, introducing him as the new Lord of Lamanberg with Kristin and Philza behind the couple clapping and smiling. Techno was too focused on Quackity though. The duck had placed a taunting hand over the baby bump of his stomach. Techno wanted to be there, his hands felt almost shaky as he watched the duck. He wanted everyone to know already, but that was not how the game was played, not when Techno still had to deal with all the suitors. 

Annoying really, but that had been his mother's condition to approving of his want for Quackity. Unless they could make the relationship firm without question, she would not approve. However she had implied that they shouldn't have a problem, she didn't have a problem with securing Philza for herself after all. That had been an interesting and tense conversation in his mother's room. Kristin had made herself crystal clear; eliminate or silent other claims for the position of the crowned prince's lover. 

" Your father was already emperor when I had to play the game, the crowned prince will be a walk in the park." It wasn't even close to that simple and the woman knew it well. 

"May you both love eternal." Philza's voice shouted across the room, drawing Techno from his thoughts. Everyone sipped their drinks and Tubbo lead Ranboo into the waiting royalty. Techno noticed Wilbur already making his way after the pair, good. Someone needed to make sure Ranboo watched his back among the wolves. 

"Could I bother you for a moment of time?" Eret had shown up to definitely show off. The man so seamlessly slipped into any fashion, it should have been criminal. Everything about the eye catch, damn near royal imitation, was perfect. The man was even cocky enough to wear a small tiara on his head decorated with purple, blue and pink stones. The outfit itself was almost entirely red and hugged his frame tight, the obvious corset made his waist thin and his chest look all the more pronounced. Several glittering gold items hung from the man as well, decorated for Techno' view pleasure no doubt, but in comparison to Quackity. Well, who could beat golden wings?

"I have lots of people that need my attention." Techno said it dismissively, moving to get closer to Quackity who was talking with Tommy, but Eret was more persistent than usual. 

"A dance then?" Eret mused and Techno held back a glare. How could he refuse to dance with such a person as Eret? He couldn't. 

"Of course," Techno offered his hand to the other man who gladly took it. He already felt the burn of Quackity's eyes on him.

"I don't bite, Techno." Eret mused, stepping closer to Techno before they started to dance. "Besides, I don't want to be overheard." 

"Naturally." Techno said it in a dry tone. Eret allowed him to lead, but Techno barely paid attention to the conversation. He kept seeing people walking over to Tommy and Quackity. Eret picked up where Techno's gaze was. 

"Feel bad for him?" Eret hummed unquestioningly. It caught Techno's attention. 

"Why is that?" Techno asked and Eret leaned himself in a little closer. 

"Well it's obvious the reason he stepped back from the title of Lord. He's pregnant." Eret said it in a scolding tone as if Techno should have known. Techno just nodded. "I noticed." Eret gave a giggle at the words. 

"Imagine, carrying a monster's child around." Techno nearly faltered in his dance. Instead he pulled Eret suddenly closer to him. Techno saw the other man blush, but clearly Eret had been hoping for Techno to make the first move. Eret's arms wrapped around his neck, Techno nearly threw the man off of him. Instead Techno leaned close into Eret and mumbled. 

"Speaking ill of a dead man is terrible luck." Techno said it in a low, almost husky voice. Eret opened his mouth to reply, but Techno met the white eyes with his own blood red ones. A silent warning to keep quiet. Eret shut his mouth slowly and looked away from Techno. Eret at the very least knew he made a misstep, but the song ended before there could be a question as to how. Techno drew himself away swiftly from the man.

"It must be an absolute heartache to carry around the child." Quackity wanted to rip the woman's throat out, but smiled all the same. He had been basically accosted the moment he stepped away from Tommy. The wives/husbands of other dukes, lords, or viscount were around him, all gossiping about who slept with who, whose child was caught sneaking around, and who was making alliances with who. All of them wanted a child at the top of the chain, but Quackity wasn't going to allow it. 

"It's an honor." Quackity replied smoothly. He had to watch his words carefully since everyone assumed he was carrying Schlatt's child. Never mind the next ruler of their people grew within him. He had already secured what their children and pawns couldn't have. 

"It is honorable." A baroness agreed with him. She wasn't one of the stupid ones. Her name was Nikki and while she had secured her own part of the kingdom it was closer to a settlement than a town or even village. Quackity smiled sweetly to her. 

"I'm glad someone agrees. Tubbo has just been thrilled over having a little brother or sister around." Which was true after Quackity told his son his plans to step down. The child in him now would have no claim on the title Duke or Duchess. Lamanberg was all for Tubbo. 

"When is the birth planned?" Nikki chirped. Smart girl.

"Sometime in the late summer or early fall." Quackity answered smiling at her and watching Nikki calculate the time while the others chirped in their thoughts about the birth of the child. Nikki however was no longer looking at him. Very smart girl indeed. He would need to keep her in line then. He suddenly gasped and fell to his knees. The natural reaction was a gasping cry from everyone and quick hands to help him up. There was a flooding of questions that Quackity assured them he was fine just faint. "Nikki, would you help me outside to one of the garden areas?" She didn't hesitate. 

"Are you alright?" The Baroness asked once they were outside and cool spring air filtered over them. Quackity nodded, smiling. 

"Fine, just all those chatting cows in there make me disgusted." Nikki tensed next to him before a soft sigh left her mouth. 

"They are quite full of themselves. I don't think any of them know what work is." Nikki said it softly, quietly. 

"Unlike us, yes?" Quackity moved to sit himself down and Nikki followed. 

"Yes, I suppose." Nikki answered, she still didn't look at him. 

"Ask." He prompted her and Nikki bit her lip and finally looked at him. 

"Who's the father?" Nikki said softly and it made Quackity grin. 

"Depends on where your loyalties are." Quackity answered her back. Nikki frowned at the answer. 

"As does my reply." Nikki answered him back. 

"I am for the empire. My body has been given to it." Quackity answered slowly and Nikki seemed to be thinking things over. 

"My body too is for the empire. A crow for a crow?" Quackity understood now. She was either one of Kristin's or Wilbur's spies. Quackity touched his neck instead gesturing to the green dagger in the thick gold color. Nikki's eyes widened. 

"I didn't even." Quackity pressed a finger to his lips. Nikki went quiet right away. 

"Unofficially, I need to meet a challenge first before I can make my public claim." Nikki was quiet. Her eyes searched the ground for a moment before she nodded. 

"Yes, that makes sense. Following traditions is important." Nikki said it with a smile making Quackity laugh. 

"I was told as much." Quackity smiled at the young woman glad it wasn't his competition, but he wasn't too sure how much he could confide in her. "Which is your handler?" 

"Wilbur." Nikki replied quietly. "He took me under his wing, so to speak, since he wants to marry my cousin so badly." Nikki suddenly clamped her mouth shut, eyes wide. Of course at that moment Techno seemed to get away from the suitors and moved into the garden. Seeing Quackity the man didn't even pay attention to the woman next to Quackity. 

"I've been waiting all night to see you." Techno mused with a smile. Quavkity gestured to Nikki and Techno was quick to assess her. "Fly." Techno muttered to her and in an instant the woman left the area. Quackity looked at him in surprise, but Techno suddenly pulled the duck further into the gardens. 

"Someone's going to notice both of us are gone!" Quackity protested. 

"The crow will inform Wilbur and Wilbur will make the proper arrangements." Quackity huffed before being sat forcibly down.  

"How could you even tell she was-?" 

"She looks just like Sally, nearly. And all crows have a feather near the collar of their outfit. It's faint sometimes, but if you know what to look for." Techno mused, kneeling down between Quackity's legs. There was no hesitation for the man to start nuzzling Quackity's stomach. It made Quackity lean himself back. "You look absolutely beautiful." 

"You're going to get dirty." Quackity mumbled back to the man. Techno didn't seem to care as he kept nuzzling the man's stomach. 

"You look utterly breathtaking. Seeing my child swelling you like this, you make me ravenous." Techno leaned upwards and Quackity leaned himself down. It was a hungry kind of kiss. Neither would call it love. There was trust and distrust alike between them. They both had to be careful, especially now. 

"It's like you want to be caught." Quackity said against the other man's lips. Techno gave a breathy kind of sigh. 

"I've heard nothing but pity for you carrying the child of a dead man." Techno growled the words out and Quackity smiled. 

"The only child within me is yours. I wouldn't even let him between my legs after I had been with you." Techno smiled at the words, it was reassuring. Though, as much as he wished to linger, he stood himself up, Quackity followed suit. 

"Oh!" A chirping voice squeaked out and Techno looked up to see the Lords of Konoko hand in hand. Karl and Sapnap if he remembered correctly. "Crowned Prince." Karl instantly dipped his head down but Sapnap was eyeing Quackity and Techno. They overheard then. Techno shifted his stance when Karl stepped in front of Sapnap. "Congratulations, may the empire grow as the heir does." It was the right thing to say. A right and very dangerous thing to say. 

Techno was calm though, very calm. He approached Karl slowly and watched as Sapnap grabbed onto his husband's arms. Sapnap's free hand was at his side, clearly ready to defend his husband if need be. The fact Quackity wasn't far behind Techno in approaching the pair made it all the more serious. There was a noise from the front of the garden which caused Techno to make a gesture as if checking for the time. The doors back to the gala swung shut then. 

"Were you spying, my lords?" Techno's tone was cold and he wasn't surprised when Sapnap tried to jerk Karl back from him. Karl was the smarter, or perhaps stupider of the pair as he pulled his arm free from his husband and faced Techno head on. 

"I wanted to share news of my own with my husband away from the party." Karl spoke with a gentle voice. Quackity was more so watching how curtains were suddenly dropped down all the windows to the gardens. The crows were the most effective court spies. 

"Do share." Quackity said slowly. His eyes firm on the pair who looked at one another then Karl gave a breath turning to face his husband. Sapnap looked as if he rather remain facing the clearly dangerous pair before them but Karl jerked him away. 

"We're having a son." Karl let the words dance through the air. Sapnap looked surprised, but seemed to instantly forget both Techno and Quackity as he leaned in kissing his husband happily. Quackity understood why Karl was unafraid now. Karl knew they would have no reason to harm them. After the kiss Karl's eyes swept to Quackity, he made to kneel down, but Quackity lunged forward to stop him. 

"You're pregnant and further along than I." Karl seemed to hesitate a moment then nodded thankfully to Quackity. 

"I'm still very sorry." Karl moved away from Quackity and into his husband's arms. "I didn't want to take away from your son's gala or your recent tragedy to tell the news." Karl motioned to his clothes next. "I have been very careful and seeing you so proudly displaying…" Quackity nodded as Karl's eyes seemed to water up. 

"You have nothing to apologize for." Quackity answered pleased Techno was letting him handle the situation now. "So many events so close together, it's reasonable you wanted a private moment alone to celebrate your own treasure." 

"As did you." Sapnap spoke sharply. Quackity sent the man a hard look and Sapnap returned it. "Duke of Forest is expecting us back." Quackity made a sour face and glanced at Techno. Techno stepped forward again. 

"No news but your own will pass your lips, lords." Techno's voice was low, harsh even. Sapnap's arms visibly tightened around Karl. 

"I intend not to welcome vultures into my home." Sapnap replied back. Techno seemed annoyed by the response. It happened so fast all Karl could do was yelp as he saw his husband knocked on the ground. Karl covered his mouth, stifling any noise he may make. His eyes shut tightly. 

"Your lineage may end here over your pride, speak wisely." Techno snarled as his foot pressed to Sapnap's chest. The man gasped loudly as Karl stood nearby silently crying and shaking.

"My sword lies in the hands of death. By the Lady and her Angel may I not falter but keep their coven." Sapnap gasped out and Techno's foot moved from his chest. Sapnap got up without hesitation and was comforting his sobbing, pregnant, husband. 

"Go, before I change my mind." Techno growled and both of them hurried away. 

"You could have been more gentle. Lord Sapnap has always had a foul temper." Quackity suggested gently. Techno scoffed softly offering his arm to Quackity. Quackity accepted looping his arm through Techno's as they walked through the garden. 

"He'll learn there isn't a temper worse than mine and if he is a threat to what I plan to build-" 

"He'll only be a threat if you threaten what he builds." Quackity cut Techno off. "He was more worried about what you would do to his husband and unborn child just as you were." Techno made to argue, but he stared too long at Quackity's face. Quackity soon started to blush as the piglin remained silently staring at him. "What is it?" Quackity huffed. 

"I will apologize to Lord Konoko when I return to the party. I too would not want vultures in my home with something as valuable as a husband and heir." Techno murmured to Quackity before pressing lips against the other man's temple. "Shall we make our return arm in arm?" 

"Such a nice man, helping the poor pregnant widower." Quackity mused, squeezing the piglin's arm firmer. Techno nodded in agreement and started to escort Quackity back towards the main doors. Wilbur waited by them with a grin letting them slip in unseen. Everything was on track. They just needed to keep being careful. 

"So is it really the pregnancy why you can't travel or are you spending time on your knees for the princes?" Quackity gave a heavy sigh as he heard the voice from in front of him. He shut the book he was reading and sat up properly. Eret was in front of him in all his elegance. Quackity may have honestly considered the near kingly man a challenger at one point. Maybe. 

"Foul things to say of an expecting mother." Quackity replied calmly. "Why would you accuse me so?" Eret saw right through the false innocence. Anger burned in his eyes. Somebody finally caught on. 

"You're a whore, a liar, and a devil." Eret hissed and Quackity chuckled. 

"You'll need to be creative if you want to insult me." Quackity replied, lounging himself back. "Better than you have tried me." 

"What have you been whispering in the crown prince's ear?" Eret snapped and Quackity grinned. 

"Oh, you are paying attention!" Quackity mocked. 

"Did you tell him the child was his, is that it? What happens when it comes out and the child has horns like it's true father? You'll be dead!" Eret spat as Quackity started to make his grin fade. He wanted Eret to lay everything out. "If you're not dead then not even your stepson will want his father's tired whore back in his life. If you bow out now, I can save you from this. I can distract the prince and make him forget all your lies." Quackity faked a hopeful expression and even reached out for Eret. Eret jumped at the chance, coming close, taking Quackity's hands. Quackity squeezed the man's hands and looked him in the eyes. 

"You'll help me?" Quackity asked, letting his voice choke up. Eret nodded, making a kind and loving expression for Quackity. 

"Yes, I know how it is to be in over your head. I will help you get free." The words were so sweet and it almost made Quackity feel bad. Almost. 

"Eret." Quackity whimpered out softly, pulling the man closer to him. "I fucked the crowned prince the day before before my husband died." Eret moved to wrench back but Quackity hugged him tighter. "After my husband's funeral, he fucked me again while he talked about wishing it was over Schlatt's casket. I've never came so hard in my life." Quackity let go then laughing as Eret stumbled over himself trying to get away. Quackity stood himself up with a pleased hum, smiling down at the other man. Eret looked pale, sick. "My child is the crowned prince's, but please." Quackity let out an amused hum. "Keep the rumors going that it is a stranger's child. He fucks me hard everytime those words reach his ears." 

"You're sick!" Eret snapped out having nothing more he could think of, surely this was delusional. There was no way Technoblade was this twisted and sick. Surely not. Techno was a fighter, but he wasn't of a twisted mind. 

"Then you should hear the things the crown prince moans to me." Quackity smirked and Eret could no longer stand it. He ran from the room. This was impossible. Utterly impossible! He needed to tell someone how twisted Quackity was. He was going to influence the crown. Eret saw then a tuff of brown hair and bolted to it. Wilbur would know what to do