Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Dinner was silent as it always.

Cutlery clinking against plates and the near silence of chewing, three people sat in the dining hall, they all sat closer to one edge than the other. George sat on the left side, a seat away from his parents who sat at the head of the table, he just happened to be a prince, if he was a chef he would be chatting it up with friends and coworkers. But because he's a prince he's never been allowed to speak to those 'lower' than him, that hasn't stopped him from slipping notes and yearning from the sidelines. Then his dad clears his throat and he looks up from his meal, a delicious meal, he's thanking Wilbur tonight as soon as he gets a chance.

"George," he begins, George lifts a hand and gestures for him too continue, "we've recently been offered a chance to marry you into a more powerful family."

"Amazing, what happened to keeping the bloodline pure?" George asked, his tone bitter, his hearts been locked in a cage since before he can remember and he plans on keeping it that way, or, at least to give it to someone living inside his own kingdom.

"You know our family stopped that stupid tradition many generations before you and I," his father snapped back before recomposing himself, "you'll be married too prince Dream of the neighboring kingdom in three months, we'll make sure too let you two get to know each other first."

"I-" before George could spit out another word his mother shot him a glare that silenced him and made his throat dry up.

"There will be no debate on the matter," his mother stated in a demanding tone that could kill a man, George nodded before standing up, "he'll be arriving tomorrow evening and stay for a month before you're sent off to his kingdom- whether or not you return after the marriage is still being settled."

"Understood mother," George said grabbing his plate before making his leave, aware that there was a servant who would take it away for him, but otherwise he had no excuse to talk too the chefs.

The doors were heavy as pushed them open, the only separation between him and the hallways, one of the only places where even his parents had no reign over him. A couple servants were wandering, a few guards here and there, he waved and gave a few 'hello's they all answered back because he succeeded in making himself approachable unlike every past ruler. He's been taught since a young age that good rulers are untouchable matriarchs and patriarchs that no one dare stands to, he enjoys the fantasy, but he also enjoys the notion of avoiding mutiny and burnings. Since he was twelve he began saying hi to the servants, giving compliments to the chefs, and treating guards like friends- that last one has caused him to go through quite a few personal guards due to his parents concerns for how he treats those 'below' him. None of what they do will stop him from talking to everyone whose going to be serving him or sacrificing themselves for him, he wants to have a good relationship to prevent revolts.

He presses his back against the door and it swings open much easier than any other door in the castle due to frequent usage, it doesn't even squeak because of how much care is put into maintaining it. He's greeted with the rush of chefs, his parents holding an important dinner meeting, they still ordered he eat dinner in the dining hall with them beforehand- he weaves through chaos with ease. He ends up sidling beside Wilbur at the sink, scrubbing dishes clean, normally Wilbur cooks for the main family, otherwise he leaves that too his mentors and those superior. His calm is calculated, even as he holds up a knife blade first for Karl too take he doesn't let the potential of cutting his hand open break his calm. Even Karls large tail brushing against his back doesn't phase him so much as make him shudder due to sensation, it makes George squirm when it hits the back of his neck as well. He gives short little nod to let George know he doesn't need to stay and scrub a few extra dishes with him, George stays anyways, tying the cape he insists on wearing everywhere around his waist.

"You know George, you're definitely the best royalty yet," Wilbur stated boldly, his tone loud but in contrast to the kitchen it sounded quiet, "I've only been here as long as you have though."

"Thanks Wilbur, I try my hardest," George said, handing a dish to the guy beside him who was on drying duty, "do you think that you and Karl could come up and see me at the strike of midnight?"

"Something happen?" Wilbur asked, fisting a goblet and handing it over to the dryer, completely unfazed when a serrated knife cut a thin layer of skin as he scrubbed it down.

"Something massive, if you got plans tonight or something you don't have too though," George said, pushing up his tone just a little bit so Wilbur could hear, fae background aside he hears similar too a human due a mishap on the battlefield, he was demoted to cook and busboy shortly after his only battle skill was nixed.

"Please, I'll be there for sure, Karl might be busy, you know our only plans are serving the kingdom," Wilbur said with a laugh, the statement stung George only a little bit, he knew that was how the system worked, but as soon as his parents were decommissioned one way or another he's going to attempt to abolish some of it to the best of his ability.

"I can take the blame if either of you miss a duty, just, please come on up to my room, its really, really important," George pleaded, Wilbur shrugged his shoulders, he let his forked tongue lap across his fangs, dulled due to human blood, but sharp due to that of beasts.

"Alright, I'll let Karl know, make sure too bring Quackity as well, I got something for the messenger boy to deliver," Wilbur said, George nodded as he wiped down his hands on his cape.

"Of course I'm grabbing Quackity, its been too long since I had a chance to make sure his wings are being groomed properly," George said, he despised the fact that Quackity was one of the few messengers for their entire kingdom, even more so that he refused too keep his wings in proper condition.

"See you soon mate," Wilbur said, playfully punching George in the shoulder before the prince made his leave, weaving across the calculated panic of the kitchen and into the hallway.

This time when he made it into the hallway he was caught in a small flow of people heading to the dining hall, jeez, how long was he in the kitchen for? Long enough for the first guests too arrive he supposed, he sticks to the walls, keeping his head low in hopes no one would recognize him as the prince fast enough to start talking to him. He needed too make it to Quackitys roost before he started on his nighttime route, for two reasons, to make sure he's eaten food today and too ask him to drop by at the strike of midnight.

Another set of doors pushed open and he was climbing up a rickety ladder too Quackitys roost, a desolate spire with a roof the messenger built onto it himself so he could have the cool breezes he liked whenever he was home. The ladder itself hung precariously off the side and the only thing too cushion his fall was the trees he could he get caught up in the branches of, but he removed that fear when he was fifteen so he could hang out with Quackity more often. His parents don't know he's friends with Quackity yet because he's just a lowly messenger boy who decided to nest in the abandoned spire, not like anyone was gonna figure out how to get in with blocked off doors- George was an innovator and found a way up with Quackitys help after initially meeting the harpy hybrid.

He was heaving his breath a little bit as he came upon the top of the spire, where Quackitys roost sat, the harpy currently packing his bag full of scrolls and envelopes, he perked up when he heard George. He quickly walked over, claws catching in the blankets, hay, pillows, and other textiles that made up his actual nest; he helped pull George the rest of the way up. He crouched down, clawed hands still rummaging through his courier bag as he waited for George too speak, he had a message for George from a different kingdom.

"Have you been keeping your wings clean?" George asked before anything else could be said, Quackity simply shrugged his shoulder and George dragged himself over, already searching for feathers out of place.

"You got a letter from a neighboring kingdom," Quackity said, lifting the letter up, "bumped into one of their delivery wyverns bumped into me on my route and gave it to me, hissed out your name in a dead tongue- you're lucky I had too study that shit for the job."

"Crack it open and read it," George said, smoothing out Quackitys feathers, secondaries and primaries taking the most of the beating out of all his feathers, the alulas flared out for him too fix up as Quackity tore open the envelope with a claw and started reading.

"'Dearest George, today I was alerted we'll be getting hitched in a month, I can't wait to meet you, your soon to be spouse, Dream' there's a couple green scales inside, he must be a dragon kin of some sort," Quackity said, pouring them into his hand and holding them over for George to inspect, he grabbed them and placed them in a small bag.

"Amazing, that's exactly why I came up here to find you," George said as he finished up Quackitys left wing and started on the other, the only out of place feathers on the right were in the alula which was constantly used for pulling landings of all sorts, "are you gonna be free by midnight?"

"You know my route goes into the suns first rays," Quackity said with a sigh as he stood up, flexing his yellow wings a few times, they felt much better after being preened, he would do it himself, but he doesn't have the energy after his routes- and he'll never admit it, but he enjoys the attention from someone in a role destined for the soulless.

"I'm giving you the night off, just be at my room by the strike of midnight at the latest, eleven earliest," George said, standing up and heading too the ladder after brushing down his legs, Quackity went too decline the offer, "I'll take the blame."

"Alright then, see you in a few," Quackity said, reclining in his spread of cushions and kicking back, not used too having even a few hours off the job, let alone an entire night, he was lucky he was friends with the prince.

George slid down the ladder instead of climbing down it for the most part, it gave him a little rush of adrenaline that didn't leave for a little bit as he hopped off the the bottom rungs to the ground. Doors heaved open once again, this time the hallways were entirely silent and he could almost hear whatever political discussion his parents were engaged in. He didn't care though, he had many a year before he'll be stuck in conversations like that, even with the impending threat of marriage he'll find his way out of simply annoyances like the such.

His footsteps echo in the hallway and despite how small it makes him feel, he still holds himself high, not for his kingdom, but for himself, he deserves too hold himself because he worked so hard to become something those that are low can touch. He knows it doesn't really make much sense, but its good enough for him as he strides confidently down the halls, he doesn't even have need to do so because no ones watching, but he does it anyways. His confidence was easily snuffed out by his personal guard walking through a cross section between halls holding a flame in his hand, George pressed himself to a wall hoping not to be noticed- his mother must've sent one of her rats to tell Sapnap he was going to be in his room promptly.

Great.

Now its a stealth mission.

Sapnap is great, his best personal guard yet; in private (real private, not around family) an amazing friend, in public stoic and silent in all the ways a personal guard should be. It's the only reason he hasn't been demoted to a regular member of the royal guard, and also a key factor in him being able too go without full armor, instead dressing much more casually. He still wears headbands and the occasional fingerless glove when he's wielding weaponry, he rarely does so, he still keeps a dagger at his hip just in case- he relies purely on the flames stoked in his lungs in most cases.

And even though George knows that Sapnap can be like this at times, silent and lethal, it still feels uncanny too see him silent and almost worried inside castle walls. George steps quietly and much slower than Sapnap does putting him at a disadvantage, he won't make it back too his room without being found for sure, won't stop him from trying. The first flight of stairs he advances on all fours, eyes locked on Sapnap as he ascends, hoping the fiery warrior wouldn't dare turn around; the encroaching fear that he has refuses to leave George even as he starts scampering down the hall. He takes every corner he can think of even if it forces his route a little bit longer so long as he can avoid getting caught by Sapnap, the flicker of the flame in his palm casts shadows through claws that flutter and shift with each step the guard takes.

He feels a thrill being like this, he knows the consequence of being caught will outnumber whatever adrenaline he's feeling right now, but it definitely feels worth it in the moment. He stays low to the ground, one hand trailing along the wall, the other held out to keep balance as he steps placing his toes first. Then the floorboard creaks and the flame stops moving, that's when he realizes he's been given away and starts too book it for his room, still far away, he was gifted one of the few balcony rooms. Once he's in the main hall he can see Sapnap chasing after him, flame snuffed out leaving both of them in the dark- Georges eyes don't adjust fast enough and he trips, leaving him on the ground, Sapnap is quick to keep him pinned, tail wrapping his ankles and knees at his waist.

Before George can speak Sapnap places a finger too his lips and lights up the halls with a blue flame, bats fill the ceiling, some still fluttering, mothers, they exist purely to keep track of everything said in her castles walls. George doesn't say anything, they were following him and Sapnap and now sit in the roofing waiting for what they have to say, but they don't ever describe imagery, so George doesn't hesitate to wrap his arms around Sapnaps waist just too fuck with him. It works and Sapnap stands up immediately, clearly annoyed or perhaps flustered at the action, he offers George a hand before escorting the prince too his room so they can vocalize safely again.

Doors pushed open by Sapnap and George enters, still silent, clapping his hands and waiting for the fungus and flora too activate, they light up in a blue glow just the way he likes it. He heads over too his bed and takes a seat, gesturing for Sapnap too join him, once again, before he can speak, George is silenced by Sapnap.

"Where in the shit were you? I'm running out of excuses for why you're not always at my side George," Sapnap said, his tone agitated but mostly contaminated with worry, he let himself fall back onto Georges bed.

"Talking to Wilbur, talking to Quackity, they're dropping by at midnight too discuss recent developments in my life," George said, Sapnap made an inquisitive sound and George handed him the letter, waiting for a reaction, Sapnap sat up again, still holding the letter.

"Two things, our first topic being that wow this guy is shit at writing letters, our second topic being that you're too old to be arranged into a marriage by human rights," Sapnap began, George waited for the other foot to drop, before Sapnap spoke again he grabbed his tail, scaled and half his height in length, "but, by all mythical rights, you're still under your parents command till your at least a hundred- you're fenced in from a legal standpoint."

"I know, I just, I was hoping I would have a few more years of doing whatever I want in castle walls, cause we all know this Dream is gonna try and dominate me seven ways from Sunday," George said, groaning as he did so, untying his cape from around his waist and flipping it over in his hands.

"He clearly doesn't know he's gonna be begging for mercy as soon as you're sparring, or arguing, or whatever- you're not standing down too him, I can see it in your eyes," Sapnap said, smirking a bit as he did so, Georges arranged spouse was in for a massive eye opener.

"I would agree if it weren't for the scales in the envelope, Quackity thinks we're dealing with a stuck up dragon kin," George explained, handing the small bag of scales to Sapnap he poured one into his hand and burnt it, it came out of the flames unscathed, dragon scales for sure, "I'm fucked, an elvish little guy like me is going to get driven into the ground."

"So, what's your plan to counter it then?" Sapnap asked, George quirked a brow, amused that Sapnap was catching onto his antics already, "if we can't beat them legally, who said manipulation is off the table?"

"You're a fast learner Sapnap," George said, a small smirk already forming, "I called down the others so we could discuss that exactly."

"When are they arriving then?" Sapnap asked, standing up, absently pacing around with nothing better to do, avoiding Karls pile of cushions because the tri-breed can be vicious over his space.

"Like I've been saying, midnight," George said, standing up and joining Sapnaps pacing, Sapnap pauses.

"Why?" he simply asked.

"Karls shift is going late," George explained, taking a seat on the armchair Wilbur usually took, Sapnap draped himself over George with a smirk, tail curling around Georges back as an arm rested on his shoulders.

"So," Sapnap began, his eyes full of fire like they always were, that didn't take away from his body heat intensifying as he raised himself a little bit closer, "does that mean I get you all too myself for a couple hours?" Georges reaction was instant and visceral, words catching in his throat, extremely caught off guard because Sapnap never acted like this.

"Where the fuck did that come from?" George managed to get out as Sapnap stood up again, still smirking as he leaned over George.

"Too get you back for out in the hall," Sapnap said simply.

"All I did was hold you! I didn't use the most homosexual phrasing one man could say too another!" George exclaimed, clearly shocked at what Sapnap considered a fair getting back at someone, Sapnap shrugged his shoulders.

"What would you rather I say? 'I could kill you and no one would know,' does that send your inner masochist a titter George? I think I said the only normal thing one could when draped across the prince of our kingdom," Sapnap stated in response, pressing a claws and scaled hand too his chest in faux hurt, George opened his mouth to speak, only too run the words through his head again and close his mouth, "exactly."

"Still man, not cool, we're just friends, that's final," George said sternly, the edge in his tone caught him off guard in the worst way, he sounded just like his mother, he covered his mouth.

"Alright, alright, jeez, just trying too make a joke," Sapnap said, trying to distract George away from the distress of his own voice, it didn't seem to work, "do you want to do some mini fireworks again?"

"Yeah," George said quietly, following Sapnap out to the balcony where the two sat against the wall beside the door.

Sapnap held out his palm, flickering sparkles of reds and blues shot up a little bit and burst or trickled, George was mesmerized. This usually helped him calm down on bad days, so the same principle could apply to fear of becoming what he hates- Sapnap is lucky it works. They sit and make fireworks, staring at colored flames for what must be hours only broken by furred paws landing in front of them, they look up to be greeted with Karl.

"Everyone is waiting for you two," Karl said nodding towards the door back in, his tail swished impatiently as George and Sapnap made their way, he followed, pulling the doors shut before sauntering over to his cushions and lounging in a way that allowed him to be at eye level with everyone else.

"So, George, you didn't tell me or Karl whats going on, spill it princie, we're dying to know," Wilbur said excitedly, he looked impossibly riled up, his grin letting fangs show.

"In legal terms, I'm fucked," George said, handing the letter to Karl who read it over, almost disgusted, before passing it down to Wilbur, "in other terms, I need a plan too prevent that."

"What would no kingdom want, what could stain an entire bloodlines reputation, what does no one want in a future spouse," Quackity questioned aloud, it helped everyone think a little bit easier, it clicked for George first.

"A whore," George stated blatantly, everyone stared at him, "I'm not wrong."

"You're not wrong, but you're the furthest thing from a whore I can imagine," Quackity said, sighing a bit.

"He can fake it," Wilbur said boldly.

"Yeah with a little bit of assistance he could totally pull it off," Sapnap said, Karl nodded.

"But, we can't just have him say he's slept with everyone in the kingdom, that'll never work, it isn't plausible enough," Karl said, Wilbur nodded, "we need a plan."

"Yes, but, what kind of plan could fool my parents and a foreigner in one fell swoop?" George asked, everyone seemed too pause, Quackity pulled out a notepad and pot of ink, plucking a feather from his wing and started to jot down what they already know.

"It needs to be subtle but obvious enough at least one of them will notice, George can't outright say it either, we need something that'll feel so natural it makes them feel stupid for not noticing sooner even though its a new thing," Quackity explained, his explanation coming out a little bit fast and a little bit nonsensical, but Wilbur understood it perfectly.

"George needs to fake a relationship with one of us, has to be one of us because we're commonly around, that'll make it feel more feasible," Wilbur said, they all shared glances, "it has too be Sapnap."

"Ha, no way, I refuse too this on every single level," Sapnap said, crossing his arms over his chest as his tail thudded against the ground, Karl stood up and sauntered over too him, standing on his hind legs, and tugging on Sapnaps headband with a claws and furred hand until he turned and looked up.

"Do you really want too lose George to some guy who doesn't the first thing about flattery?" Karl threatened, although it was set up like a question, there was one answer and everyone knew that, even if Karls feline and taur form wasn't half as large, his point would still come across clear- but currently, the fact he towers over Sapnap is helping him out with that.

"No," Sapnap said, his tone was meek and Karl dropped back down onto all four with a 'thud,' tail still flicking a little bit

"Do I really get no say in this?" George asked, he knew they were only giving the logical answer, it made the most sense for it to be Sapnap he was in a secret relationship with as he was always around being a personal guard, even around out of the publics eye- he hates the fact it does have to be Sapnap if he wants his plan to succeed one way or another.

"You do, but can you really think up a good reason why it should be one of us instead of Sapnap?" Quackity asked, George didn't have any good reasons aside from the fact he was afraid of losing Sapnap as his personal guard.

"No, not at the moment at least," George said.

"Relax, we still have a couple days too think of a better plan," Sapnap said, George made a high pitched nervous noise.

"Actually, Dream is arriving tomorrow evening, my parents just springed it on me today," George explained, everyone shared a groan of agitation.

"Then we have to go with the faux relationship," Wilbur said, holding his head in his hands, not even enough time too refine their plan, they were going to have too wing it entirely, "for Georges sake, I hope you're good at kissing Sapnap."

"I guess this means as of Dreams arrival we're in a hidden relationship we've just started too let slip up?" Sapnap asked, tone a little bit disappointed, putting out a hand to shake.

"That's what we're going to be," George said, shaking Sapnaps hand, a small smirk hidden away, "kitten." Sapnaps grip tightened.

"If you call me 'kitten' again I'll castrate you in your sleep," Sapnap threatened, his expression stayed exactly the same but his voice lost all form of emotion, there's that lethality.

"Make threats like that tomorrow and Dream will surely take me away no matter what anyone has too say," George responded with, smirk entirely showing now and Sapnap hated the fact that George was right about it.

Chapter Text

George and Sapnap stood outside the castle walls, waiting patiently for Dream too arrive be it by steed or by carriage, maybe even on foot, George was a little bit anxious. Either he was going to blow this entire thing by acting too genuine or Sapnap was going to blow it by acting too much like he always does. They don't talk while they wait, instead Sapnap tosses the dagger in his hand up and down trying too get a spin with his throw and George sits on the ground, chin resting in his hands. To say George is a little bit bored would be a gross understatement, if anything he feels like he's dying and that time refuses move, the cool breeze doesn't do very much to alleviate the tension between them.

Sapnaps is usually out back training around now while George sits on the sidelines with gauze and disinfectant at the ready and cheers, with a side of exaggerated yearning just for shits and giggles, it gets a rise out of Sapnap. If not training they would be hanging out in Georges room, Sapnap watching in awe as George practices his own abilities, he got them mostly from his fathers side of the family; plant magic and a hint of animal as well. Where his father excelled at fruits and vegetables, George is much better at the dangerous plants alongside fungus, the prince doesn't speak to the animals as much as his mother insists he should, he doesn't care though- it's his little way of telling her too fuck off because his throat dries up whenever he tries to actually say it.

"George," Sapnap begins, George gives a nod of acknowledgement, "if he tries anything I'm doing it twice as effective."

"You'll get flustered way too fast Sap," George said standing up as he did so leaning into Sapnap who leaned away, hand pressed to his chest gently, "see?"

"Please, it's just that there's no need too put on a show yet," Sapnap said, leaning into George and wrapping a hand around the princes waist, that had George flustered, "but trust me, I won't let him take you away from me or the kingdom, I just hope you don't mind the taste of brimstone."

"Why would I have too worry about the taste of brimstone?" George asked, Sapnap smiled, his blunted claws threatened to tear the fabric of the princes shirt and it made George shudder ever so slightly.

"You'll figure it out," Sapnap said, releasing George on the sound of a horses click of hooves, he was quick too act a little bit stoic again, he can't go too far just yet, it would be a bit overkill to let the foreigners first sight of George be pressed against a drake hybrid.

As the steed came into view, pelt black as night, with a dragon kin riding it, or was it a harpy? It was hard too tell given feathered wings but scaled and clawed hands, splotches of scales were on his throat and chest and most likely his legs as well. George simply stared at him as he hopped off of his horse and walked over too the prince and his guard, Sapnaps gaze was deathly and the foreigner was affected by it in one way or another. Still he walked over too George, taller, only by an few inches, beastly blood adding too his stature no doubt; he grabbed Georges hands and placed a kiss to the back of it, George had to refrain from laughing at the formality, Sapnap stifled a snicker himself.

"Prince George I take it?" he asked, George nodded.

"That's me, and you must Dream, this is my personal guard Sapnap," George said, gesturing to Sapnap who gave a small a nod of acknowledgement.

"Before we get any further into this, do you have any scars?" Dream asked, the question came so far out of left field George had to pause before answering, gesturing to his shoulder.

"Karl," he pointed to one on his neck, "cooking," he pointed too a bite mark on his shoulder, "and my old pet."

"I'd love to hear the full story later," Dream said before George led him into the courtyard, sticking to the fungus and stone forged into winding pathways across the entire kingdom, Sapnap followed close behind.

Their walk through the castle was full of seemingly random questions and chatter, George answered them but his mind was in other places- the scent of food, the way Sapnap gripped him, whether or not this plan will work. To Sapnap it felt the questions were calculated, but he couldn't put his finger on how exactly they were all linked into the same thing, whatever that thing may be. Sapnap made sure to stand close to George, made sure to brisk hands, made sure to keep it naturally casual until he was bold enough to link their hands- Dream noticed, the slight glance and pause made Sapnap smirk. He didn't let go of Georges hand even as they came too the dining hall where not only did Georges parents wait, but a portion of the castles staff as well, which meant that Karl, Quackity, and Wilbur were there.

"You can sit wherever you like," George said as he sat down, Quackity to his left and Sapnap to his right even though Dream should be sitting one of those spots and Quackity opts to move because he recognizes Dream as a hybridized amphiptere, the harpy sits next to Karl instead.

"George, I trust you gave our guest a tour of the castle?" Georges father asked, George shook his head.

"I planned on doing so after we eat, it's not often that chefs and royalty eat in the same room," George said, reaching for a fork, waiting patiently for someone else too start eating.

"I see then, let the feast commence!" Georges mother stated, she sounded agitated that George didn't bother showing off the castle already.

The dining hall was louder than it has been in years, mostly conversation between the workers, but Dream and George did talk, if they didn't his parents would be beyond disappointed. Although the conversation was a little bit stressed on Dreams end because George refused to let go of Sapnaps hand, going so far as to rest their hands on the table so everyone could see. Sapnaps eyes were trained on his meal, but he could feel Dreams glare, in doing so he doubled down, releasing Georges hand and opting to rest it on his thigh instead; that caused a small stutter in Georges speech. Sapnap had to repress a smirk when Dream attempted to grasp Georges hand, the prince refusing to interlock fingers despite the foreigners trying, little details, George understood how to work someones psyche and was doing so perfectly.

Dream continued too prattle off questions as everyone ate, completely oblivious to Quackity jotting down details under the table on everything Dream was saying, clearly intent on trying to formulate what kind of guy he is. Sapnap could see Quackity writing with ease and shot a small glare, the harpy stopped right away, unsure of why Sapnap would want him to stop- all information is good information in this case even if it doesn't get used. Dream doesn't catch Sapnaps grip on Georges thigh tighten, only hears the faint catch in Georges breath and how his face heats up, he glances to Sapnap whose eating again, zero noticeable attention on George. And George, George is feeling a little bit conflicted being caught in this situation, he's trying too stay formal because his parents are right there six seats down and Sapnap could care less.

"Do you have any magic?" Dream asked, his claws were digging into his palm, other hand still attempting to grasp Georges.

"Plants from my father, animals from my mother," George explained, lifting Sapnaps hand from his thigh gently, Sapnap got the message and retracted his hand, "I, on occasion, make use of weaponry, short swords mostly."

"Interesting, I've never met a prince versed in swordsmanship," Dream said, resting his chin his hand, elbow propped on the table, he looked curious, invested even.

"I taught him myself," Sapnap butted in, George pressed on his foot begging him not to go on without saying anything, he went on, "He's amazing at pinning people down, even better at dominating on the field." Sapnaps smirk was undeniable, the smug look on his face enough too get him killed if he was part of a different court, it made Dreams blood boil a little bit- notions of being dominated by George be damned, this guy was going to be the death of him.

"Is that true George?" Dream asked, eyes locked with Sapnap.

"Oh trust me, I wouldn't lie about being pressed between a wall and the prince," Sapnap said before George could even open his mouth, he was taking this to far too fast and he didn't care despite his previous worries, he needed to see how far he could get under this guys skin before getting a physical reaction.

"I can't wait to test out your theory during our honeymoon," Dream retorted with, smiling a little bit as George groaned in embarrassment, shakily taking another bite of his serving, hoping neither of his parents heard, "how do you even get away with George?"

"I have benefits you couldn't begin imagine, being a personal guard has its perks," Sapnap said, his tail wrapping around Georges waist a little bit, he made a small, surprised noise akin to a squeak when Sapnap yanked him close.

"What kind of perks could being a lowly guard have?" Dream asked, invested in where this conversation despite the fact his future spouse was in some guard arms and not his own.

"Too put simply, George is very, very invested in my life, he never leaves my side," Sapnap said, the statement, although logical and true, shot a bullet of jealousy straight through Dreams heart and Sapnap could see it on he face, he released George who was swiftly grabbed by Dream, "of course, the prince is all yours legally, and there's not much I can do about that, he'll miss me when he's gone."

"I highly doubt that he'll miss some smug guard when he has a ruler like me," Dream said, confidence in his tone overbearing as he grips Georges waist with one hand, resting at the small of his back, using the other to draw a blunted claw along his neck and jaw, "trust me."

"Guys, can I eat now?" George asked, pointing too his plate of food, he was released, Dreams hand resting on his thigh, it didn't have the same effect as Sapnap did, or George was great at hiding it.

Most of their conversation was lost in the clamorous murmurs of the crowd and Georges parents didn't hear it, George was beyond grateful for that, he was currently trapped between a dumbass taking things way to far and one of the least fuckable guys at the table. He was staring at Wilbur who sat directly across, trying his hardest to not focus on the conflict between Dream and Sapnap even though one half of it was was fake and felt all too real. The hum of conversation around him was loud enough too distract him almost entirely from Dreams affections, but he still paid enough attention to give a reaction. It was clear to Karl and Quackity that George hated being trapped between two sources of affection, but he's powering through for the sake of the plan- if everything goes right Dream will leave within a week and George will never have to be smothered with so much attention again.

"To the kingdom!"

A cheers was set in place and almost everyone raised a glass to the notion, because even though they had conflicted feelings towards how royalty likes to treat them, they'll always cheer to the notion of a potentially better ruler. Glasses clink here and there before bottles of wine are passed around, made of the finest homegrown grapes and only made in small batch, the flavor was the only reason George even took a single sip. Normally he hated alcohol, it was all bitter too him (the taste of hops made his skin crawl), even the ones with a mixture of fruity flavors, this was the only exception to his hatred of alcohol, Karl was of similar tastes.

One glass later and George is excusing himself from the table where everyone else stays for seconds and thirds, Sapnap reluctantly follows him as its his duty to do so even though he would rather stay at the table for one more round. Dream stayed behind and started conversing with Quackity, the harpy extremely intimidated in the presence of Dream- harpys used to be finger food for large scaled beasts before elvin, fae, and human crossbreeding, and Dream was indeed part large, scaled, beast.

Sapnap follows George down the halls, all the bats are either in the dining hall or somewhere else which lets them speak freely, but neither of them do so. Sapnaps still holding a wine glass, the base is gold and encrusted with jewels, George knows that he can trust whatever he comes out of his mouth having watched Sapnap win multiple drinking contests and stay sober before he became a personal guard. Only after they make it to the floor Georges room sits on does George open his mouth, glancing up too check for mothers bats, none, then he speaks.

"Dude what in the fuck was that?" George questioned, his tone laced with agitation and confusion, Sapnap shrugged his shoulders, sipping on the wine.

"It was me or Dream, who would you rather pick?" Sapnap asked, raising a brow, George hated the fact he had a point.

"Good point, but don't you think that was too far, parents could've seen," George said, fear of either parent realizing their plan immense, if they did they would surely execute Sapnap on the spot- and George won't admit it, but he doesn't know what he'd do if Sapnap died.

"Wasn't that the entire point of this plan?" Sapnap asked, following George back to his room, still swirling the grape wine in his glass, the aroma absolutely superb.

"No, the point was to scare off Dream, I don't want anyone getting executed because of me, they'll off you if they think you're the problem, if they think Dream is the problem they'll send him off for sure," George said, explaining his train of thought in a way he hoped made sense, "but that's too hard to do, so we have to get rid of Dream privately."

"Right, so you want me to put on a show whenever your parents aren't in the same room as you and Dream, otherwise be a stone faced guard?" Sapnap asked, it sounded a lot less fun than just playing it up no matter the circumstance, but, a part of him didn't really want to fuck it up and disappoint George.

"Yes, is that too much to ask?" George asked, his tone was genuine in a way that Sapnap rarely heard, desperation clear, he just wanted his plan to work so his life can go back to normal as soon as possible.

"No, I can ease up, although I expect that you'll especially ham it up if Dream thinks we can't seem him, if he gets nosy you know? I want to spark some drama," Sapnap said, taking one last sip of his wine before placing it down on Georges bedside table, "a kiss or something, that really gets peoples blood boiling."

"Yeah but, to be honest I haven't had much practice kissing, parents are very, very picky and overprotective," George said, he sounded embarrassed even though everyone in the castle already knew his parents were just like that, not his fault that he doesn't get around all too often, nobody in the castle town is bold enough to try and kiss him anyways.

Sapnap took a deep breath before walking over and grabbing his hands, eye contact triggered reflexively. Sapnaps hands heated up nearly too much for it to be bearable for George, but he still waited for Sapnap to speak- he would deal with the heat of the sun to hear Sapnaps voice. He doesn't know where loyalty and devotion blur and switch places, he doesn't care too look into it either, afraid of the answer, he'll keep telling himself he's just loyal.

"We could try practicing if you think that'll help," Sapnap offered, hoping the nervousness didn't seep into his voice too much.

"We don't need too, winging it hasn't failed anyone yet," George said, glancing to the side a little bit, Sapnap brought a hand to his chin, redirecting Georges gaze back up too meet his own.

"Yeah but, practice makes perfect, right?" Sapnap asked, before he could back away and try to take it back because hats way too bold for some guard, George leaned in.

Sapnap tasted like grapes, the aftertaste of the wine, his lips were a little bit cracked and the scar going through them was a discernible texture. It was like a spark, it kind of fired, it kind of happened, but it was too slow to call an inferno of an experience, more like a warm blanket. It was just nice, even if fake and short lived, it was still something George wouldn't mind doing again, only for the plan to succeed of course. But even pulling away that sweetness of grapes lingered on Georges lips and the silence was overwhelming in a good way.

"For someone who claims to not have much practice kissing, you're certainly a lot better then you give yourself credit for," Sapnap said, stepping back, Quackity was walking in from the balcony his face was red and he had fang marks where neck and shoulder met- he couldn't have, could he?

"So you guys are never gonna guess who almost got laid, or cannibalized," Quackity said, his tone was a different pitch than usual, drunk.

"Quackity, did you seduce Dream?" George asked as he walked over to Quackity, helping the harpy keep his balance as he walked him over.

"Nope! Poor boy can't hold his wine for shit, he decided to try and take a bite, or maybe he was trying to fuck me, it was an entire thing though," Quackity explained, "he kind of, got his senses back, his stupid amphitere blood lets him power through it faster- he was offa me in a second once he realized what he was doing."

"How many drinks did he last?" Sapnap asked, sitting down next too Quackity who held up two fingers, "wow, a total loser, how many did you have?" Quackity shrugged his shoulders.

"Quackity, you need to stop doing that," George said, grabbing a quill and ink, jotting down 'tried to cannibalize Quackity' on a piece of paper, writing 'what we know' above it in reference to Dream.

"Twas fun, Karl was handing out piggy back rides," Quackity said, George mumbled a curse under his breath.

"Sour you wanted to leave so soon?" Sapnap asked smugly, George shot him a glare.

"No, where are the others?" George asked, sitting down on the other side of Quackity.

"They got put on dish duty," Quackity said, then there was a knock on the door, George stood up and made his way over, greeted with a face he was growing to hate.

"What brings you to my quarters Dream?" George asked, his tone was sharp as a sword.

"Your parents sent me up here, they said that we'll have to share a room," Dream said, keeping eye contact with George and trying too stay formal despite the urge to start throwing accusation as to why Sapnap was acting so brash.

"You're room is down the hall, first left, third door down," George said, vaguely gesturing with his hands as he did so, he needs to get Dream away before he realizes Quackity is around, sparks will surely fly.

"And you're sure we shouldn't share a room, we only have a month in your castle, shouldn't we use that time to get to know each other?" Dream asked, he clasped his hands together and George looked him up and down, trying to read him to tell if he was serious, he was.

"We can get to know each other sometime later," George said, waving off Dream as he went too close the door, Dream held it open and George turned back to meet Dreams gaze with one that could kill a man, "what?"

"I didn't have a chance too give this to you sooner," Dream said, handing a small bag to George, he snatched it and shut the door on him, sliding down it a little bit.

"Who was it?" Sapnap asked, George groaned and walked over as he spoke.

"Dream, gave me a gift," George said, dropping down beside Quackity who had wings spread awkwardly as he rubbed his bite wound, George gently nudged estranged wings back into a more comfortable position.

"Open it up," Sapnap said, curiosity intense as George pulled out a small crystal, he didn't recognize what exactly it was, but it glimmered a seemingly impossible amount.

"A crystal," George said blankly as he held it up and turned it around in his grip, the blue light reflecting off of it was mesmerizing, it was small enough too fit on a ring, "a really nice one at that."

"Yeah, looks like he really cares, his heart is going to be shattered when our plan succeeds," Sapnap said, Quackity nodded at the statement almost solemnly.

"Absolutely, I'll make sure to drop by the training grounds when I give him that tour tomorrow," George said placing the crystal back in its small bag, "I'll be yearning for you on the sidelines."

"You better be," Sapnap said, smirking a little bit as he did so, "I'll make sure to put on a show just for you."

"You should just put on a show for yourself," George countered with, Quackity still caught between them, he fell back onto the various cushions.

"It's not as much fun when no ones there to watch me strut my stuff George," Sapnap explained, shrugging his shoulders, he threw a couple colored sparks back and forth between his hands.

"You really like impressing the ladies don't you?" George asked, nodding to himself, the answer he got wasn't one he expected.

"Who said I was trying to only impress the ladies?" Sapnap asked, Georges face started too burn up at the implications, it had the fiery warrior smirking.

"Save quips like that for when Dreams around," George said, groaning into his hands as he did so, how could one guy leave him so ruined? Especially with a fake act, he didn't understand how an act could leave him so affected.

"I'll add to the book of smart remarks for later," Sapnap said, faking writing something down as though he was holding pen and paper, George smiled at that.

Chapter Text

"So, tour, where do you want to go first?" George asked as he stood in the doorway to Dreams room, the amphitere hybrid still tugging on a shirt over his wings.

"Where do you want to go?" Dream asked instead of giving an actual answer, it had George reaching to rub his temples, he always hated giving tours for visitors, this did not make it any easier.

"Look, I'm not giving you the entire tour of the castle town because that'll take all day, so pick a place or two," George said as Dream made his way to the doorway.

"What? You don't want too spend all day long with me, doesn't that sound amazing?" Dream asked, his tone was extra and George wished he was being sarcastic despite how genuine he was, lie time.

"While it does sound absolutely breathtaking, I promised my guard I'd meet him at the training grounds so he doesn't get laid off for not being at my side," George said, stretching the truth was something he wasn't a huge fan of, but, it felt kind of nice when doing it for a good cause.

"I can take good enough care of you without him around George," Dream said, grabbing Georges wrist and sidling just a little closer to having their torsos flush against each other, "I assure you no guard can come close."

"I believe you'd be adequate, but he's by far my best personal guard yet, and I may very well shed a tear if he gets beheaded on my behalf," George said, dramatizing the consequences Sapnap would undergo, slipping his wrist from Dreams grasp, the foreigner still intent on grasping his hand at the very least- it made George feel a bit nauseated, all of this was too much for him to handle, he barely knew the guy.

"In that case, do you have a garden?" Dream asked as George led him down hallways.

"Of course we have a garden, one of the grandest that I've seen in my time at that," George said, the urge to jump the gun and head straight for the kitchen so he could go talk to Karl or Wilbur instead of hanging out with this guy was insane, but he had to play along for the plan; besides, it'll only be an hour or so before he gets to see Sapnap again and really rub it in Dreams face that he's already 'taken,' he's taking too much joy in this.

"Can we go there?" Dream asked, his tone was soft in a way that had Georges heart dropping into his stomach, it sounded genuine, or Dream was good at manipulation, if it was latter, George would have to give him props for that.

"I suppose, its been far too long since I checked on my carnivorous babies anyways," George said, he was going to play into this, he was going to play into being a weirdo, a scary one at that if faking intimacy with Sapnap would fail, "I know for a fact the venus man-traps rarely get their fill." George smirked a little bit when he felt Dream tense at the sentence, he wouldn't actually feed royalty to a plant, but the notion of watching his perfect plant consume an entire human was amusing in ways that would send alarm bells off for everyone.

"Plants aren't carnivorous," Dream said as George led him down a hallway the foreigner hasn't seen yet, potted plants lined it, some alive some dying, and climbing vines trailed the roof, he could see dead animals in between tendrils and it made him feel scared.

"Mine are," George said, pushing open a set of doors to reveal an impossibly lush garden full of exotic plants and ones that don't naturally occur, only existing here due to gardening magic being a hereditary trait in Georges family- the only good thing to come out of his parents is the powers he inherited from his father.

"I simply don't believe you," Dream said as he followed George over to a shadier area of the garden, cracked rocks made up pathways and waterways ran throughout the entirety of the area, it all looked ancient yet so alive in ways Dream couldn't quite understand.

"Okay then, you're simply missing out on a set of wonders," George said as he lifted his hand to gently tap a cluster of fungus growing on a tree, it came off with ease, glowing slightly in his hand, he placed it at the base of the tree instead, using his own magic to try and link it back to the tree.

George didn't even notice that Dream had wandered off a little bit, too worried about his garden to care for where the foreigner had went, he reluctantly left his patch of mushrooms to find him. If he was stupid and walked too close to any of the carnivorous plants, that would deal with about nineteen of Georges twenty three problems, but Dream seemed a little to smart to do so. George wasn't surprised to see Dream staring at the venus man-trap like a stunned cunt, face red and body frozen, it was a reaction many had to the plants appearance. He walked up to Dream and waited for the amphitere hybrid to speak, he couldn't help the smug look on his face.

"George, George why does that plant have," Dream couldn't bring himself too finish his question, instead gesturing vaguely to what he was referring to.

"What Dream? Why does that plant have what? Why does it have tits, big naturals if you will?" George asked, smugness in his voice so thick it could kill a horse, Dream nodded, "its a venus man-trap, its designed specifically to lure in humanoids and eat them whole."

"George that isn't a real plant," Dream said, shock in his voice becoming clear as the reality of the situation set in, he was standing in front of a new plant that doesn't exist anywhere else, he's so confused at how this even happened.

"Correct, entirely so, it's just a strain of venus dryad-traps with a genetic mutation that allows them to digest meat, I simply cloned it and propagated it until I ended up with this amazing creation," George said as though the gardeners jargon would come across clearly too Dream, it did not, "would you like to feed her?"

"No!" Dreams response was instant and had George laughing a little bit.

"I don't mean put your hand in and wait for her to take a bite," George said as he held out his hand, a few moments later and a small cluster fully grown liberty cap mushrooms had formed, "she likes mushrooms over any other vegetation." George threw one into the pit of the plants 'mouth' and watched as a set of vines dunked the vegetation in acids, Dream was horrified at the spectacle.

"Okay," Dream said shakily as he took a few and tossed them in, this time a vine shot up and caught it mid-air, the petals started too slowly close as well, this was a very dangerous plant, that probably doesn't transfer over to George, George is normal enough.

"Are you scared Dream? She wouldn't hurt a fly, really, she isn't fast enough- and she knows too listen to my magic if someones idiotic enough to jump in," George said, placing his hands on Dreams shoulders and leaning over to speak close enough that his breath would ghost Dreams neck, it had the foreigner shuddering.

"I'm not scared, just a little shook is all, not everyday you see that kind of thing existing," Dream said, pointing to the plants naturals once more, George hummed in agreement before taking a step back from Dream.

"She's a real beaut' that's for sure," George said, "I'm quite proud of her, she's outlived the rest of her siblings, even the alternative strain that had cocks instead of tits." Dream nearly choked on his own spit at the statement, George caught it.

"Fucking whats?" Dream asked shakily as he turned to George, the red on his face refusing to leave, especially with the brand new knowledge that George had bred plants that were designed to lure in humanoids and eat them and the lure of choice was genitalia.

"Cocks, dicks, do I need to find more slang, a schlong if you will, its pretty obvious their would be an alternative strain with well, the alternative lure, Dream," George explained, gesturing with his hand as he did so, trying to emphasize what he was saying, his gardener terminology, although light, still had Dream confused.

"But why?" Was all Dream could muster in the face of the plant facts he's learning.

"Their original purpose was too draw in dryads correct? A humanoid creature consisting purely of plant matter, these plants which originally can only digest other plants evolved to lure them in so they could survive Dream," George explained, his words were full of love, full of genuine joy because this was his passion, one of the only things he cared about enough to throw himself into fire too save, "my strain just happens to eat meat instead, everything else is the same- all of my carnivorous plants are of similar origin."

"I guess that makes sense," Dream said, what George said next caught him off guard by a large margin compared to the plants.

"Nature is beautiful, even the gruesome bits, have you ever seen a crow fight a squirrel Dream? It gets really funny, really fast," George said, the wistfulness in his voice was almost painful, he rarely was let outside of castle town and rarely got to see natures bloody bits, he wanted too though, he wanted to see how nature truly worked.

"Yeah, for sure," Dream said, he needed an out right now, this conversation is going dangerous places he'd never expect of someone who looks like George, "we should probably move along with the tour now, don't you think?"

"Right, the tour, almost forgot about it, where do you want to go next, keep in mind that we have to head to the training grounds sometime soon for Sapnaps sake," George asked, brushing away the joys of talking about his plants so he could get back to the plan.

"Then why don't we just head to the training grounds?" Dream asked, he needed to be anywhere but this garden, it allowed a side of George to show that he was afraid of, this was not something he wanted in anyone, but, he could stifle it, no plants, no problems, hopefully.

"That sounds amazing, if we hurry we'll make it to watch Sapnaps rounds," George said, the yearning in his tone was supposed to be fake, but it felt just a little bit too real, he was too caught up in the plan to realize what it feeling real meant, instead he was focused on whether or not Dream caught it.

George, instead of going through the castle again, went directly through the garden because it felt so much more like someone or something could live there. He loved the castle, he really did, but he didn't like being trapped inside of a gothic manor with as little plant motifs as humanly possible on a great day like this one. The sun was shadowed only slightly by the promise of fluffy clouds drifting across the sky and the garden simply smelled divine with plants going into bloom- he was in love with nature the same way the moon loved the ocean, unending, he doesn't even know where it stems from, but its there and he nurtures it. His entire room might as well be a greenhouse at this rate with colorful plant and fungus aesthetic he has going on, but he loves his friends as well, just, differently.

The gardens make him smile as he rattles off all sorts of facts relating too his plants, Dreams little tenses here and there whenever introduced to a carnivorous plant make George laugh because there's no way Dream will ever get hurt by one if he has a brain. He finds it humorous how on edge Dream is in the presence of a bunch of plants when he should be more scared of the one who created them and can create even more atrocities against nature. He finds it empowering because this man who was previously trying to psyche him into submission is suddenly acting skittish around a couple meat eating plants, really, they're entirely harmless so long as you don't touch them.

Before the training grounds can even come into view the sounds of clashing metal were heard and Georges pace picked up, he didn't mean to let so much of his personality be revealed to Dream, but, he can't help himself when it comes to plants, or sparring. When the fighting does come into view he can see fire and smoke, the scent of brimstone assaults his lungs and he loves it because that means Sapnap must be winning- or having a hell of a time with his magic. He might as well be swooning (fake swooning, he tells himself) when he sits down on the grass a good ten feet away from the action, he hopes Dream takes not on the giddiness in the presence of violence, if that doesn't spook him, then hopefully the yearning in his eyes will make him doubt Georges potential as being a good spouse.

"So, George, how come you like watching the sparring so much?" Dream asked as George laid back, shuffling around until he was facing the action directly, head resting in his hands, cape thrown to the side.

"It's fun, to watch and partake in, I take it you spar frequently if you have a sword at your hip," George said, not even bothering to look at Dream, instead focusing on the match.

"Yeah, but mostly with the bet duelist in the kingdom, not some guards and... Is that the busboy from last night?" Dream asked, pointing too Karl who was dodging Sapnaps blasts and slashes in a fashion that made it look like he was prancing about, the cat aspect of his taur form allowing him more freedom of movement, and stronger attacks with commonly hidden claws lodged into his massive paws.

"Yeah, that's Karl, he fought in the wars before becoming a chef, I'm pretty sure he taught Sapnap some stuff about fighting," George said, enamored as Karl threw a slash with one of his paws, knocking back Sapnap and tearing open his shirt, in return a slash of a dagger cut along the curve of Karls lower back, dangerously close to his tail. tearing it wide open, that's when they stopped.

"Say George," Dream said, George looked up at Dream, "what is Sapnap too you."

"What is Sapnap too me? That's a good question, he's everything, he's my guard, he's my right hand man," George said, listing off a few of the things Sapnap was, the way his tone was airy and full of what could only be described as yearning was something that caught him off guard, "he's my kitten if you will."

"Your kitten?" Dream asked, disgusted at the notion that George could consider some lowly guard to be important enough to get a cliched pet name like kitten.

"My bob cat, my little lynx, I could go on, but yes, my kitten," George said, exaggerating because a bit of exaggeration always helps, he watches Dreams expression change as he spoke, "and you, well, I don't know if you'll like any answer I can give you."

"Huh," was all Dream said as Sapnap trotted over, so did Karl, they looked enthusiastic, and the way George stood up and rushed over to catch Sapnap in a short lived hug painted Dream green with envy.

"You made it!" Sapnap said, his grin felt so perfect and the way he looked at George had Dream yearning.

"Of course I did!" George answered with the exact same enthusiasm, he even offered a small kiss to the cheek.

That's what Dream wanted, he wanted someone to look at him like he was their world, and now its become painfully clear that he isn't going to get that from George. He wants to know more before he jumps ship and ruins Georges life by telling his parents he'll be declining marriage even though it was his idea in the first place. It's clear he's given his heart too Sapnap and his parents don't know, Dream knows that now, this display is more than enough proof, but he needs to know what George sees in some guard that Dream doesn't have.

"Me and Wilbur are heading out for a night on the town so I won't be here tonight," Sapnap said, caressing Georges cheek, they looked so happy.

"Alright, stay safe then," George answered with, the earnest in his voice made Dreams heart ache.

He stayed silent as he stared at George and Sapnap, they sat down beside each other and simply talked, he needed to experience that- fuck, he wasn't even sure what it was but he needed it. And he's been searching desperately to get it and he's inserted himself into the wrong persons life to find it, he just needs to know what he needs to change so he can win someone. He eventually decides too stand up and leave, he's fine, he's not jealous, he still has too actively attempt to stop his tail from thrashing in agitation as he walks away. George catches up to him and waits for Dream to speak, but the amphitere hybrid doesn't so George has too first.

"You can stay in my room tonight, get to know each other like you're so intent on doing," George offered, a bit unnerved at Dreams change in demeanor, did he take it far? Is his death tonight? Or is Dream going to play along and say everything's fine and pull George away from everyone after the wedding? There wasn't a single answer he liked for anyone of those questions.

"Okay," Dream responded with, tone soft, he's failed, again, his parents are going to kill him for turning down yet another marriage, he just wants someone to love him back like the now unfortunately deceased stable boy did- they were perfect for each other, and then he was sent to war and reported to be killed by an arrow through the skull. It was never later confirmed despite Dreams begging to find the corpse and prove too himself that its truly over, that his stable boy is gone forever instead of distantly hoping he was still out there; his parents refused to let him search the battle grounds. He's refused to let himself get close to anyone susceptible too being drafted for wars no one should be a part of, only opening his heart up to those of the same ranking or higher cause then they might not be stolen from him so swiftly.

But, he's not going to get that love from George, he's not going to get that love from anyone ever again, despite being so sure of that, he refuses to give up on love. It was the only thing that made him feel whole, having the stable boy talk to him like they were equal, having tusks nuzzled against his chest, having someone to be his everything and being someones everything in turn. He just wants someone to be his world again, and he wants that to be George, but, he isn't cruel enough to steal that from someone- he could never inflict that upon someone else in a selfish attempt to gain it himself.

George opens the door to his room and gestures for Dream to enter the amphitere is hesitant but enters anyways, taking a seat where Quackity usually sits, yellow feathers litter the area. He leans back a bit, resting his weight mostly on his palms, George sits down beside him, unsure of what too say because he's used to Quackity and Karl conversing when he stays silent- he's even used to Wilbur just rattling off a list of seemingly random tidbits of knowledge but not silence. It's suffocating and something needs to be said, but neither of them know exactly what too say with so many thoughts drowning out an ability to speak.

"George," Dream begins, George gives a nod acknowledging he heard him, "why do you surround yourself with people lower than yourself?"

"What?" George blurted out before he could calculate a smarter answer, he turns to look at Dream as he speaks finding an expression so blank it looks pained.

"What do you see in them that I don't have?" Dream asked, he needed to know, he could replicate it, maybe someone would love him again if he could figure it out.

"That's kind of a weird question man," George said, skating around the question instead of straight up answering.

"They could be taken away any day for war, even Sapnap, your personal guard," Dream said, their was a bitterness in his voice that George didn't pick up.

"No they won't," George said, his tone was stern, they wouldn't be taken away for war, he would fight in their place if he had to, but they wouldn't fight for him.

"They will, they take everyone for the wars except for people like us, me and you, royalty," Dream explained, dragging out his explanation, hoping he could get in Georges head, falling for someone whose expendable will only bring pain- he doesn't want anyone to feel that agony of losing someone who was destined to be pulled away anyways.

"I won't let them take my friends away," George said, tone more determined than last time despite the slight quaver, his body shook a little bit.

"George, me and you, we're just princes, we don't have a say in who gets taken, I need you too trust me, it's not safe too give away your heart to people lower than us," Dream said sitting up and reaching for Georges shaking hands, in contrast too his own talons and feathers the elves hands were small, "please, just love me instead." George tugged away his hands, talons tugged at skin but didn't break, it still stung.

"No, I can't love you Dream," George said, standing up, Dream followed his actions.

"Why?" Dream asked, reaching for Georges hands again, this time his own were slapped away, the prince unable to even try and fake it, he just wants to get his point across- he doesn't love Dream and he never will.

"Because I love Sapnap alright! I, I don't know if he knows that yet, but I love Sapnap okay? You're nothing like him, I refuse to love you even if it hurts me," George snapped, he didn't like the authenticity of it, it felt too real for comfort, every word spilling out of his mouth felt like a confession he was denying himself until right now, "I'm sorry."

"I can see that, but you'll regret loving him," Dream said, George opened his mouth to deflect but nothing came out, "I promise you that nothing good will come of it."

"I know that," George said, his tone a little bit quieter.

"Then how come you won't just love me instead when it'll be so much easier? When you won't have to worry about me being drafted for war?" Dream asked, the questions cut deeper than George was prepared for, he wanted to respond right away, but he couldn't.

"I just can't, I've never even thought about marriage until a few days ago, and now I have too marry you? Maybe if the circumstances were different I could be fine with this, I'm sorry okay," George over explained, spilling too much, and all of it was true, he just hoped Dream could tell.

"I'll leave tomorrow, I won't tell your parents until right before I leave either so you can have some more time without them fucking you up," Dream said, his tone was earnest and understanding in a way George didn't understand was possible for someone like him, George nodded, one last question, one that drills anxiety into his own skull over the stable boy, he needs too know, "do you think that Sapnap really loves you back?" Instead of answering George deflects the question entirely.

"You can sleep in my room tonight, but I, I have too go," George said, his voice shook and he hated the fact it was so clear that the question tore out his heart, he didn't like the fact that it did, it meant that he's caught feelings.

He could feel tears start too well up in his eyes, there was no reason why, this wasn't supposed too happen, this was supposed to be some meaningless stunt to get away with not getting married off. But here he is, standing outside his own room, on the verge of crying because Dream asked if he thought Sapnap loved him back- it doesn't make sense, that question shouldn't have cut so deep but it did. He was supposed to be keeping his heart locked up in a steel cage so no one can hurt him ever again, yet here he is, getting hurt just by a notion that the one whose busted the cage wide open doesn't love him. He isn't supposed too love him, he's supposed to be fine, he needs to talk too someone, he's sure he'll break down completely if he even sees Sapnaps face right now.

This wasn't supposed to happen.

Chapter Text

Too say that George was crying as he opened the doors to the kitchen would be a gross understatement, he was fucking sobbing and he slammed the doors open causing Quackity and Karl to jump a bit. His breathing was labored, he needed a hug now, he needed a glass of water now, he needed anything too distract himself from all the panic rushing through his head. Karls quick to bound over and meet him halfway because something bad must've happened, George never cries, he's only cried once before, but otherwise, he never cries. He props himself a little lower so he can place his hands on Georges shoulders, the amount that the prince is shaking is scary, if Dream caused this heads are going to be rolling- George can't even speak, everything feels too fast.

Instead of even bothering to try and explain whats wrong all he does is lean into Karl, burying his face into the striped tortoiseshell pelt of his friend, it caught the taur off guard. Quackity was tending to the pan still full of hot oil and frying food, he couldn't multitask, so some of the other stuff was burning as Karl tended to trying to calm down George- mild hangover be damned he could work a grill. Slowly Karl led George through the kitchen, sitting him down beside Quackity who snuffed the flames and sat down next to him, he was a little bit caught off guard when he was ensnared in a tight embrace. He didn't really have to comfort people often, so he opted to just rub Georges back instead, a little bit less worried about tears soaking into his shirt than whatever caused this reaction in George.

Seeing him cry was like watching hell freeze over, it feels wrong because its only happened once before and even then this feels worse than the last time. It's gut wrenching to see him cry for both Karl and Quackity because this isn't a thing that happens normally, George doesn't cry in front of anyone and everyone knows that. Quackity opens his mouth to ask but he can't words catch in the back of his throat and he's afraid that whatever he says will make it worse- Karl speaks first.

"Do you want some water?" Karl asked gently, George nodded fiercely, stilling latching onto Quackity, he only let go when he was handed a glass of water.

His entire body still shook, and he nearly choked as he tried too breathe between sobs and sips, you can't cry while drinking water right? How come it isn't working, how come all it does is coat his throat in temporary relief before he feels like shit all over again? He just wants too stop hurting, the question shouldn't have even hurt in the first place so why did it cut so deep?

"Do you want to talk about it?" Quackity asked, his tone soft, he wrapped a wing around Georges shoulders as he waited for a response, the ache in his skull can and will be ignored if only too try and calm down George.

"I just, fuck- it hurt and I don't know why," George said, his thoughts were too far apart to be strung together properly, ravines split them in twain, he could only grasp fragments and hope it came across clear.

"What hurt?" Quackity asked, trying to be patient, trying so very hard.

"Dream, he," George stammered out, he could feel Quackity tense, he knew Karl was going to kill someone.

"He did this?" Karl asked, his voice was still soothing but there was a clear edge to it almost drowned by the freshly renewed sizzling of oils.

"No, yes, I didn't mean for this to happen," George couldn't pull his emotions together, nothing that came out of his mouth was making sense even too him, distraction, whats a good distraction, "what, whats cooking?"

"Chicken, mushrooms, leftover steak, a bunch of other stuff," Karl answered with, he pulled a couple chunks of the aforementioned items from the oil, "Quackity has a hangover and I'm just hungry."

"Hey man, you're the only guy in the kitchen I trust with any kind of food, period," Quackity said, tilting his head a bit to see if he could catch a reaction.

"I know," Karl said, giving a hum of contentment at the compliment as he dropped a few potato slices into the oil, "do you also want some George?"

"Yeah, I'd love some," George said, the shakiness and stammer in his voice had gone down, but his thoughts were still being recollected.

"Wise choice, because this guy, is amazing at cooking," Quackity said as he stood up, trying to keep his grip on the counter subtle, the world shook a little bit with sudden movements, he sidled up next to Karl, offering a hand to help.

"Thank you Quackity," Karl said, tail seamlessly wrapping around Quackitys waist, eliciting a somewhat nervous bout of laughter from the harpy, he leaned into Karls touch a little bit, refraining from fully leaning into him just for contact- he had some form of dignity left despite everything.

"You guys should get a room," George said, stifling a chuckle, they looked happy in each others grasp, he wanted that with Sapnap, he isn't allowed to have it, but he still wants it.

"Jealous much?" Quackity retorted with, glancing over to George with a smug look.

"Don't be an ass," Karl said, running blunted claws up Quackitys side, he shuddered and arched into the touch a little bit.

"God you two are gross," George said, rolling his eyes.

"You're one to talk considering you were kissing Sapnap not even two days ago," Quackity snapped as Karl pulled the potatoes from the oil, snuffing out the flames for the last time, dabbing away the oil and portioning a little bit of everything into bowls.

"You were kissing Sapnap?" Karl asked, quirking a brow as he sat down next to George and handed him a bowl.

"Only too practice, in case we had too in front of Dream you know, better safe than sorry," George said through a mouthful of refried steak, the flavor was only amplified by the hints of chicken and mushroom carried on the oil it was fried in, the shake was gone now and his thoughts were back in one spot, "we uh, we won't have to worry about Dream anymore though."

"You killed him?!" Quackity blurted out before he could think about what he was saying, Karl had to refrain from smacking the back of his head.

"No, no of course not, he just, the plan worked," George said hesitantly, he waved around a slice of potato before continuing his speech, "but there's a problem now."

"What's the problem?" Karl asked.

"The problem is that I felt something when I said that I loved Sapnap," George said, leaning on Karl.

"Of course you did, you seem like the person who feels something when they lie," Quackity said, shrugging his shoulders.

"The problem is that it didn't feel like I was lying," George answered with, leaning his head against the counter, Quackity made a small noise.

"That is a problem," Quackity said, glancing past Karl to look at George.

"Dream is leaving now, so that's good, I've won, but at what cost?" George questioned, adding a little bit of dramatization to his voice.

"You'll have to wait and see, your parents are gonna flip their lid though, we'll have to deal with that first," Karl said, George tensed at the notion of his parents, they were still a part of this, they were going to be the only negative aftermath to all of this.

"Don't even remind me that they're going to put me through hell for this," George groaned, all of this was worked to an extent, its getting Dream out of the kingdom which was the goal, but now he'll have to deal with his parents unfiltered wrath, and that is not going to be easy to stomach- surely they won't throw him in the dungeon again.

"Eh, once they're done chewing you out over it you're gonna have to man up and tell Sapnap, he'll be easier to deal with if anything," Quackity said, still chewing through a bite of steak.

"You'll figure it out, you're lucky Dream didn't decide to stick around just so he can personally torture you after you're out the house," Karl said, the optimism was clear, but it wasn't conveyed with the best choice of words.

"I guess I'm lucky," George said, his tone was still disappointed, a little bit of fear could be heard underneath all of it, "could I bunk with you tonight Quackity? Dream is borrowing my room."

"You're letting him borrow your room?" Quackity asked, shock seeped into his voice and he didn't do a good job hiding it.

"Least I could do considering he came all this way to be disappointed," George said, looking over to Quackity.

"You can take his roost tonight, me and Quackity have plans so its all yours," Karl said, surrendering Quackitys roost without a second thought.

"Thanks, I'll try and make sure you don't get in trouble for skipping your route," George said, heaving a relieved sigh.

"They legally can't get me in trouble for this, especially because they were the ones who let me have wine, if a messenger is drunk or hung over its illegal to send us out on our routes," Quackity explained, he was grinning as he did so, two nights in a row he's gotten off now, that's only happened once before and that's because he was horribly injured.

"I didn't know that," George said, he felt a bit like he had failed himself for not knowing, but how was he supposed to know that little detail unless a messenger told him?

"Fair enough, rare knowledge, I only know because my predecessor told me during our only meeting," Quackity said, he gestured a little bit as he did so.

"Neat," was all George managed, the exhaustion of sobbing catching up too him, he stood up, "I'll be on my way so you two can smooch it up as you see fit."

"Why you gotta say it like that man?" Quackity asked, George smiled a little bit.

"Flair, finesse if you will," George explained, the slight hint of joy in his voice was uplifting compared to his previous state.

"There is zero finesse in the phrase 'smooch it up' George," Karl said, he couldn't entirely suppress the small grin on his face.

"I know, that's why I added the 'as you see fit' Karl, I understand how language works, she's my bitch," George said trying to play the smart guy in this situation, it worked as it drew a small chuckle from Karl.

George slept in Quackitys roost once before, age sixteen and only because his parents wanted to uproot his room to check for something, he doesn't even remember at this point. That time he was curled up against Quackity, he still hurt when he woke up in the morning, but not to the extent he feels now. His entire body aches, how Quackity deals with this is beyond him, but waking up to see the sun rise and paint the sky with a cool breeze washing over his form is immaculate- and maybe, just maybe that makes it worth it. He can't quite be sure as he can no longer feel his toes, and his sleep in general was restless, hay pricking the small of his back and consistently rolling into something.

Still he sits up, blanket pulled over his shoulders, he never expected to fall asleep in boots, but here he is, waking up in boots and still having cold toes. He feels kind of disjointed, the air is fresh, his mind is clear, it doesn't smell like fungus (although textiles and hay isn't much better), it just feels so different. He is going to have to convince Quackity to get some actual bedding up here for both of their sakes because George is definitely bunking here again. His descent is slow because he feels like he's going to fall if he isn't careful about it, balance thrown off kilter a little bit; he isn't exactly used to waking up and climbing down a ladder first thing in the morning.

Walking into the castle feels like walking into a cemetery on a summer day, its hot, empty, and silent all at once and its unnerving in ways he didn't expect it to be. The halls are dark aside from sun beaming in between closed curtains, he makes his way to the kitchen instead of anywhere else because he needs to eat something, anything. Doors swing open once again and he's greeted with an empty kitchen, something he's never found the pleasure of finding, his pleasure is snuffed at the sight of stray feathers on the counter- did they really do it here? In the kitchen? Where food is prepared for the rulers? Actually, the notion of some uptight broad eating a meal tainted with the fact a messenger had sex on the counter it was prepared at brings him a giggle.

He doesn't even bother grabbing a cloth to wipe it down because that's someone elses problems, he isn't very fond of touching those feathers, just they idea they were knocked loose in the act of getting jiggy makes him apprehensive to touching them. He moves to the other counter, beside the second set of burners where he sets down a pan and flicks the fire on with a swift motion and starts on grabbing ingredients. Eggs, butter, and a little bit of cream are in his hands when he returns to the counter, he's yawning as he mixes the eggs with cream. The butter sizzles as it hits the pan, he pours in the mixture promptly afterwards, prodding at it with a spatula- he hears footsteps as doors open, the footsteps stop abruptly.

"Did they fuck on the counter?" A voice George recognizes as Wilbur questions aloud in disgust, he hoists the pan from the flame and walks over to him, still tending to his eggs.

"That's certainly what it looks like," George said bluntly, Wilbur perks up from staring at the spread of feathers, George glances back at the counter, "can't blame 'em, nice counter."

"The counter is sacred," Wilbur murmured softly, already making his way to the sink and grabbing a damp towel to wipe it down, despite his better judgement, George grabbed a feather, "dude, don't touch that."

"Watch me," George teased, brushing it along his forearm before placing it back down on the counter as Wilbur wiped away the rest.

"What brings you here so early?" Wilbur asked, dropping the towel into a nearby trash can, health regulations, can't risk anything in the food industry.

"Quackity let me borrow his roost, Dream monopolized my room, I'm curious as to how you're not hungover," George said before stuffing a spatula full of eggs into his mouth, they tasted mediocre, nothing compared to the omelettes Wilbur cooked, or the eggs benedict Karl whipped up.

"Sapnap was drinking for two last night put simply, he's a bit rough right now, should be fine by noon," Wilbur explained as he leaned against the counter, George quirked a brow at the statement, "he got drunk as the ever living shit."

"Sapnap doesn't get drunk," George answered with.

"Ah, you've clearly never seen him attempt three consecutive drinking contests and win," Wilbur said, his smirk was evident, "he was seeing double, and starved, late night steak was fun though."

"He won three drinking contests?" George asked, shock evident in his voice, he's seen Sapnap come out nearly unscathed of some intense drinking contests before, shot for shot, but after that he quit right away.

"Consecutive, waterfall rules, he was always at the end of the table, he got smacked upside the head with how much booze he was drinking," Wilbur explained, "never lost though, he was stumbling, slurring out confessions, he was probably black out drunk."

"Confessions?" George let slip out, the curiosity in his tone was stronger than the hopefulness.

"All sorts, he did threaten to kill me if I told anyone," Wilbur said, quick to add a barricade over Sapnaps secrets, completely aware he would be putting himself through the unfettered wrath of the drake hybrids dismay, "so I ain't spilling."

"You are absolutely zero fun," George groaned, he took another bite of eggs.

"That may be true, but at least I can continue to look absolutely fabulous in the process," Wilbur said, running a hand through his hair as he smirked, George rolled his eyes.

"Sure, fabulous, whatever helps you sleep at night," George said, Wilbur gave faux offense, putting a hand to a chest.

"I'm hurt George, wounded even," Wilbur said, making sure too amp up the emotion in his voice.

"I believe you," George answered with, his attention was forcibly pulled from Wilbur at the sound of scurrying, they both glanced over to find what appeared to be an amorphous blob encroaching on them- Wilbur hopped onto the counter, George did not and was thus taken away by the horde of rats.

George was used to this, this was his mothers way of telling him that he fucked up and needed have sense screamed into him, he quite liked it over having her actively search him out. The rats are nicer to him now, the first few times they bit and scratched at whatever skin they could find, he presumes his mother told them to- his mother despises him, her own flesh and blood. She wanted a daughter, she didn't get a daughter, he's fine with that, she doesn't deserve a daughter if she was going to be so cruel anyways, he'll take the beating instead. He tries to be what she wants him to be, he fails, his father doesn't have many expectations for him, he prefers his father, theirs a lot less areas to fail in, he thinks his father is afraid of his mother, whose he too blame? She's scary when she's mad, the only reason he feels safe enough to rebel even in small ways is because she's not allowed large animals indoors.

When George is dropped off at the doors, the rats stay behind, also scared, he gives thanks before opening the door to find his mother fuming, his father nowhere in sight (that's a really bad sign), and Sapnap off to the side, clearly uncomfortable. George walks in, trying to prepare himself for whatevers coming his way despite know this is about Dream because what else could have his mother this upset. He's given enough time to make it within a five foot radius of his mother who is radiating anger and disappointment, her disappointment doesn't hurt him as much as she thinks it does.

"Dream has alerted me that he's leaving," she says, tone even, that's when you have to be most scared, calm before the storm, "and while it is a shame, I'm more curious as to what you could've done to scare him off so easily?!" The venom in her impossibly loud tone almost makes George flinch.

"I did nothing out of the ordinary, acted as I always do," George said, his tone was calm, he couldn't show anything in these moments.

"Liar," ice cold, fuck, she knows whats up, play dumb.

"What do you mean by that?" George asked, a quaver, she noticed, she's going to tear that single crack wide open.

"Don't act like I didn't see you and you guard over there getting frisky during dinner," his mother accused, pointing in Sapnaps direction, her voice was loud, not quite a scream yet.

"And? It's only fair of him to be territorial over me, my friends-" before George could say another word his mother was screaming over him.

"We do not associate ourselves with servants! Especially not considering them friends! I thought I raised a better son!" There it was, the voice loud enough to deafen a hurricane, George found her choice of words interesting- he couldn't help the retort building in his chest.

"For someone who didn't even want me you sure are quick to say you raised me- we both know that's a lie!" each word he spoke was like stabbing a knife into his stomach with his own hands, his mothers expression morphing told him as such, but she left an opening to go on if he dared, and he did, "besides, royalty is boring! I'd rather be friends with real people than fakes!" Another opening, he's going to regret this one in the morning, "and nothing you can do will ever make me stop being a good ruler, unlike you."

"George," his mother begins, "which of these worthless fools that you call friends mean the most to you?" Sapnap gave George a pleading look, George couldn't decipher it, nor did he notice it- his common sense had been loaded with dynamite.

"Sapnap, my 'expendable' guard who I'd rather die for then suck off Dream for the sake of the kingdom," George spat, he needed to get his words under control, it felt liberating to speak, but the consequences he'll face will never be worth it.

"If you like Sapnap so much, then you'll be marrying him by the end of the month, unless of course, you'd rather have him executed on your birthday," his mother stated boldly, before George could make a single rebuttal on the matter, she spoke again, "now go see off Dream, I told him to wait for you to say goodbye."

"Fine," was all George could spit, if he tested his luck any further he, well, he was already going to regret this.

"And take your soon to be wed with you," his mother added on, Sapnap walked over to George, he looked agitated, a really bad headache agitated though.

The two left making sure to slam the door shut behind them, the sound had a faint echo across the halls- the rats were still waiting for George, he gave a soft order to dispel despite his current state. They continued trudging down the halls silently, it was usually never silent when they were at each others side, today was different in a way that George was beginning to despise. They walked past Georges favorite decorations, his mood didn't lighten, not even escaping the somewhat gothic manor helped his mood.

"Why would you say that I'm your favorite?" Sapnap groaned, he was rubbing his temples, his skull hurt and he felt kind of dry all around, a little bit nauseated but not nearly to what little he could remember of last night.

"We'll talk about it after getting rid of Dream," George said, the edge of his voice belonged to his mother, he didn't even notice how natural it sounded for him to use it.

The flowers helped calm him down, being surrounded by plantations, even if minimal, soothed his impossibly frayed nerves by just existing as an escape. He didn't actively stop to take care of them, to check for bugs or make sure they were watered, he just needed to get Dream out of his kingdom and proceed to crawl in a hole and die. So, recap, he boots a foreigner he was supposed to marry out of his kingdom successfully, and now, now he's being forced into marriage with his personal guard? They can't even sire an heir by natural means, and this won't get the kingdom any more power, this is all just some sick and twisted punishment for acting out, he'll have to mull it over with chipped plates and a wall later on.

Right now, he finds Dream sitting atop his horse, waiting patiently, he slides down when he sees George approach, followed by Sapnap who is no doubt hung over - the slightest hint alcohol follows him. George has too take a few breathes before speaking so he doesn't say something horribly crass to the guy who agreed to leave instead of sticking around to make Georges life hell.

"I, I was sent out here to send you off, best of wishes and shit," George said, he couldn't piece together a better answer at the moment.

"I know, your mother told me, I'm sorry in advance for whatever punishment you'll have to withstand," Dream said, he sounded earnest as he spoke.

"Yeah, she isn't too pleased on the matter, but fuck her anyways, getting hitched with Sapnap instead I guess," George said, his handle on his words was stronger, he didn't have to speak so crudely of his mother, but he really did.

"If he gets sent off to war, send your messenger boy over and I'll be there if you need any support," Dream said, George seemed confused, "if he dies at war then we'd have something else in common." It takes George a second to clue into what Dream is implying with the statement.

"You're right about that," George said, he had to pause before continuing his speech, "if you want to come by to watch the biggest humiliation of my life, feel free to do so, I'm sure my mother would love it if you did."

"You can count on it, I'll bring anything you want that's illegal in your kingdom if it'll get rid of the agonies of being publicly humiliated for all to see," Dream said, he was wearing a little bit of a smirk as he did so, now that the tense of marrying George was gone, it just felt a little bit easier to well, ease up and be natural.

"Quackity will have a list in your hands as soon as possible," George said, a light sigh laced his voice and he couldn't hide it even if he tried to.

"I should be on my way, leave you and Sapnap to discuss whats happening I suppose," Dream said, hopping atop his steed and starting on his way off.

"George we need to talk," Sapnap said, his desire to never speak of the impending threat that would be their marriage was immense, especially given his current state, but it needed to be said, needed to be countered, somehow.

"Can we walk and talk?" George asked gently, Sapnap gave a nod before they began walking, taking a swerve to the main garden instead of having to go through the castle again.

"Am I really your favorite?" Sapnap asked, George tensed, his heart gave a quick bout of palpitations.

"Of course Sap, I wouldn't lie about that stuff," George said, normally he would be relishing his various carnivorous plants with more attention than he was now, but he really wanted to focus on keeping calculated answers in effect on a topic like this.

"Maybe you should've," Sapnap mumbled under his breath, George barely caught it, he could see Sapnaps tail swish side to side, agitated.

"Why?" George asked, he wasn't quite sure he wanted to know, already having a good idea.

"That way my head wouldn't be on the chopping block, I'd rather we lose Karl than risk some shitty guard get my position and hurt you instead of protect you," Sapnap explained, raw emotion seeped into his tone and he hated the fact that it was clear- he couldn't risk George getting harmed, not only was it part of the job description, but he genuinely didn't want him too, "not like you're just gonna lie down belly up and put our plan of not letting you get married to waste."

"Us getting hitched is a lot better than you getting executed," George said, Sapnap sighed.

"No it really isn't, if I'm your spouse then I won't be allowed to be your guard anymore," Sapnap said, before George could make an argument he spoke again, "trust me, as much as you think you know about our jobs, you only know the half of it."

That stung a little bit more than expected.

"I need you to believe me when I tell you that this is the best option for you," George said, withholding more information than he thought he ever would, he was sure Sapnap already knew he could be drafted any day now, and that if he was married into the family he would be safe.

"It isn't," Sapnap said, his tone was unwavering, there would be no argument, "you need to tell your parents this all a ruse."

"I'm not going to, they'll just pull Dream back and force him into this as well, you have two options," George demanded, his voice was icy and it had Sapnap a little bit scared, "you either man the fuck up and just let my parents wed us, or you fucking die, its pretty clear which option is the wise choice." Sapnap stayed silent, George raised a brow in place of questioning him.

"Fine, just know that no matter how you look at things you've roped both of us into a shitty situation," Sapnap said before turning, he was headed for Quackitys roost, he didn't leave right away, waiting for an answer, his head was aching, this was all too much to be dumped on him.

"I'm heavily aware of that," George said, he was doing the right thing, this was the better choice for both of them, Sapnap wouldn't be drafted and George wouldn't be forced into wedding someone bad, but, Dream didn't turn out bad.

"And you won't stop things from getting worse, what a prince you are," Sapnap said, he might as well have snarled with how much venom was oozing from his voice, that's when he started to head for Quackity, leaving George alone- instead of following, George started on his way back to the kitchen where Wilbur would hopefully still be, cleaning dishes and making brunch.

Sapnap headed for where the sun rose.

George headed for where the sun set.

It was midday, Sapnap was hungover and probably said something stupid, George was whipped into an emotional hurricane and he'll regret it later.

But everything they spat at each other was stripped of any lies that could've resided otherwise.

Chapter Text

Sapnaps hangover was almost done fading away as he climbed up ladder to Quackitys roost, finding the Harpy just sitting there, reading a book? Huh, that was something new, but, it was happening, the Harpy looked up from his book on Sapnaps entry. Quackity shifted around until he was comfortably seated, a pillow between his legs, Sapnap leaned against a support post. Their was a prompt comfortable silence as Quackity placed down his book, Sapnap got a glance at the cover, a book on how to fuck a centaur if you're a bipedal, well, there certainly is a market.

"You wanna give it a read?" Quackity asked, gesturing to the book a little bit, Sapnap cringed, sticking out his tongue in disgust.

"No, where do you even get books like that," Sapnap asked, Quackity opened his mouth to speak, "actually, never mind."

"Ha, pussy, what brings you to my roost anyways?" Quackity asked, smiling a little bit, Sapnap took a deep breath before answering.

"I fucked up," Sapnap said bluntly, "I said some shit I shouldn't have."

"That's easy to deal with," Quackity said, Sapnap shook his head.

"No, no it isn't, I told off George and his parents are forcing him to marry me instead of Dream just to piss him off," Sapnap explained, Quackitys eyes widened, he gave a hum of some sort.

"That sucks fucking ass, aren't you two friends though?" Quackity asked, Sapnap felt a twinge of something shoot through him.

"I mean, we are friends, but like, what if his parents find a work around to not being able to sire an heir, then what?" Sapnap questioned, his panic was clear, he didn't care that he was stripping away his confidence right now, he needs answers.

"You fuck, and then raise a kid with your best friend, easy as that," Quackity said, he wasn't understanding the full scope of the situation.

"I get that, but what happens if he realizes I love him?" Sapnap asked desperately, Wilbur already knew this, Quackity didn't, and the Harpys expression changed so rapidly made Sapnap feel exposed.

"That's the root of this problem, isn't it?" Quackity asked, Sapnap nodded, there was a pause, "well that sucks ass for you I suppose."

"Don't you have any advice?" Sapnap said, practically begging, he didn't know what he was supposed to do, being married to George in any other setting sounded amazing, but this? Being forced into it as punishment? Only hatred and broken relationships would follow, a shattered kingdom could come next, nothing sounded ideal in their current reality.

"I do, but, I just want to hear why else you don't want this to happen despite loving him," Quackity said, his smirk was undeniable and it had Sapnap groaning in annoyance.

"Quackity, no-" Sapnap was cut off.

"You want that advice don't you?" Quackity asked, a nod, he shifted in his spot so he could rest his chin in his hands, "then go on, spill it." He got a heavy sigh before an actual answer.

"I'm afraid some asshole will take my position and hurt George instead of protect him, if we get married I'll be forced from his personal guard to future ruler, I was hoping to avoid that," Sapnap explained, Quackity nodded along, "and this whole fake dating shtick failed, so now its either we get hitched or I die."

"Man the fuck up and get hitched; when you're at the altar saying your vows just tell him that you really love him," Quackity said, he had to speak over Sapnap a little bit to get out his entire idea, and he got a small nod.

"I guess that could work," Sapnap said, glancing to the side a bit.

"Exactly, now go make up, or out, with George so you two ain't bitter on the big day," Quackity said, smirk turning to a grin as Sapnaps face turned red, scaled tail twitching a little bit.

"You are insanely crude, you know that right?" Sapnap asked jokingly, Quackity nodded.

"Believe me, I know," Quackity said smugly.

"I must ask how your time with Karl was last night," Sapnap said, it was a joke, he didn't mean for it to strike Quackity hard, but the pause between question and answer had him regretting asking, he didn't even know, he was just guessing.

"Amazing, next question," Quackity choked out as fast as possible, very, very confused as to how Sapnap figured it out.

"You actually fucked him? I was just joking but you done did the nasty, pre-marriage even?" Sapnap asked, he sounded happy, a little bit smug, his voice was lighter.

"I couldn't help myself! And can you blame me?" Quackity asked, the clear embarrassment in his voice made Sapnap laugh.

"To be fair, I will agree that getting jiggy with Karl would be 'an experience' but seriously dude?" Sapnap asked, Quackity didn't respond right away, the answer he got had Sapnap in stitches.

"Seriously dude," Quackitys tone was deadpan and it caused Sapnap to erupt in laughter but he wasn't quite sure why.

"Oh my shit, how did you even climb the ladder, presuming you got fucked into next week," Sapnap laughed, it felt nice to laugh, he was trying to sweep away whatever was going on inside his head and this, laughing beside someone, was working.

"Fucking flew right on up, you think I can feel my hips right now? You underestimate the effects of getting railed into oblivion," Quackity said, the embarrassment in his voice had went down, filled with a bit more humor in its place.

"Good point, good point," Sapnap said, it felt good to laugh, he didn't do that very often around anyone anymore, even George, he had to stay firm to be a good guard didn't he? Stiff as a board, no room for shits and giggles, but, he's been wrong, this fake dating hoax and just laughing with Quackity right now proves it, "thanks for laughing with me."

---

Georges head was already clear of the bitterness he displayed to Sapnap when he had arrived at the kitchen, finding Wilbur leaned against a counter with a frying pan in hand. He could smell whatever the dryad hybrid had cooked, it smelt nice, he could pick up hints of sweetness underneath the spice- the chances of anything being left over was low. He still sidled up beside Wilbur, glancing to the heavily glazed steak slices inside of the pan, he was handed a fork.

"Thanks," George murmured quietly as he picked up a slice.

"Your welcome, how was it with your mom?" Wilbur asked, George tensed but answered after finishing his bite.

"Rough, Dream is out of the picture which is nice I guess," George explained, Wilbur perked up a bit.

"That's great! Now there should be nothing to worry about," Wilbur said, he sounded a lot happier than George expected, and who was he to just crush his spirits like so, but he caught onto the shift in the princes attention, "what happened?"

"The bitch is setting me up with Sapnap instead as some sick and twisted punishment," George said with a sigh, Wilburs expression dropped instantly.

"Something tells me that you really didn't want that to happen in the long run of things," Wilbur said, George nodded a bit, "you two are best friends, attached at the hip, thicker than thieves if you will, I can almost assure you shit won't go south."

"I can assure you it will, he won't get to be my personal guard right? Who knows who'll take that place," George explained, Wilbur nodded along, even the taste of steak couldn't distract the prince from his woes, "I've saved him from the ravages of war, but at what cost?"

"Woah, woah, woah, back up," Wilbur said before George could go on, shock painted clearly across his body, "ravages of war? Are your parents trying to wage war on an opposing kingdom or something?"

"No, I don't think so, I just, if there is a war after we get forced into marriage, then he won't get drafted right," George said, "you, Karl, and Quackity still will unless I figure out a way to bend the rules real quick." Horror etched itself into Wilburs mind at the notions of being sent off to war, he's heard so much and he doesn't want to lose himself in the agonies like those in wars past.

"Oh, heres hoping I guess," Wilbur got out, George gave a bit of a nod, "so yeah, back to your problems, I'm being best man right?"

"Unless Sapnap chooses you first," George answered with a bit of a smile.

"Fuck, good point, dude, you are gonna look fly as fuck in whatever ceremonial garbs you get dressed up in," Wilbur said, his confidence was unwavering, entirely sure of the words spilling from his mouth.

"Eh, whatever they try and put me in I'll be wearing some plain old suit instead," George said, already picturing sleek black fabrics with white highlights, although, he could go for something a bit more extravagant, maybe something revealing? It would be his wedding even if one his parents forced upon him, he wonders what Sapnap will wear only for a second, snuffing out the imagery in his head swiftly- he distantly hopes its the extremely lightweight, cotton and leather armor he wore on that one stealth mission (there was enough skin showing with that armor to kill a nun).

"Just some plain old suit, you and Sapnap'll be matching," Wilbur said, he was smirking as he added on the next bit, "unless of course, he decides to wear a skirt, or perhaps a dress," George nearly chokes on his own spit, and Wilbur notices, he gives a bit of a laugh, "wow, he got you down that bad?"

"No! Of course not! Just friends, that's all we are," George stated rapidly, playing it off with a laugh, Wilbur gave a small disbelieving hum.

"Ah yes, for sure, an answer I believe," Wilbur said with a smug tone as George simply died inside, "I won't spill, don't worry."

"I don't believe you," George groaned.

"I promise, I mean, I still haven't told anyone what Sapnap told me when blackout drunk," Wilbur said, "he sounded rather... Suggestive about the likes of you," George gave a squeak, "I'm just yanking ya."

"Yeah, god, this is the best and worst turn of events in my life," George groaned as he leaned against the counter, "under any other circumstance this would be amazing," Wilbur quirks a brow.

"Oh?" He can't formulate much more of a question than that out of fear that if he does so it could cause George to revert back into a stuttering mess that he couldn't extract an answer from.

"It's nothing, I swear, he just listens you know? And he's strong, makes me feel safe, I know that it's just part of his job, but, it still feels nice," George explained, he gestured vaguely with his hands, he found the floor to be rather interesting at the moment, theres a comfortable pause, "and he looks hot as fuck, but that's just an added bonus," Wilbur nearly choked on his own spit at the abrupt confession.

"And you're entirely sure that you don't love him?" Wilbur asked, George shook his head.

"How can I be sure? Last time I loved someone they took advantage of that, who am I to believe Sapnap won't do the same- I know he won't, but it still feels like he might," George said, there was a sigh under his tone that Wilbur barely caught, "I don't know man, he's just great, how am I supposed to tell him that without him thinking its a lie, or just practice for the life we're gonna end up in."

"Confess at the altar," Wilbur said, his tone blank, as though the answer was sitting directly in front of George and he just refused to see it.

"I mean, I could do that, but that's kind of on the nose, don't you think?" George asked, his gaze lifting from the floor, his hands gripped the hem of his cape, picking apart where the threads frayed.

"It is, but do you really want to tell him just cause?" Wilbur asked, George didn't answer right away, conflict played out in his head like a movie.

"It'd be a lot harder," George got out quietly, hoping Wilbur didn't hear, but the Dryad caught it.

"Exactly, so just bide your time and tell him on the big day," Wilbur said, urging George to make a smart decision for once his life, aware the prince most likely wouldn't.

"Okay," George said, there was just enough confidence in his tone for WIlbur to believe him, "thanks for the advice Wilbur."