Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Rebuilding the Dark Kingdom was a bigger endeavor than Eugene had ever imagined and of course as the only heir to King Edmund, he had a duty to help oversee some of the reformations such as establishing a new system of rules and laws in the government and as he was officially Corona’s Captain of the Guard and prince consort to his wife, the crown princess, he was perfect for the job.

And as Varian was the Royal Engineer and had ties to the Dark Kingdom through his dad, he was assigned to accompany both Eugene and Quirin to help restructure buildings and to create mechanisms that will help advance the Dark Kingdom for generations to come.

This was a huge deal for Team Awesome as they had now spent weeks in the Dark Kingdom working hard on their separate projects and workload but were also able to spend time together afterwards in the palace. At this point in their lives they considered themselves as brothers and they might as well have been had the Moonstone not disrupt the Brotherhood’s lives. Eugene would have grown up a prince and Quirin would have brought Varian to visit his aunt and uncles.

But there was no use dwelling on the ‘What ifs’ and they continued on with what was happening now.

One day, Varian was working in the workshop he had been given, going over his latest blueprints to copy what he did in Corona by giving the kingdom hot running water. The chamber where the Moonstone had been was perfect for the boilers and he started to make preparations. But once he turned away for a second, Hamuel clumsily flew in and ended up catching the blueprint in his beak and flew out the window.

Varian saw this a second too late, making him shout, “Hey! You stupid bird! Give that back!” He rushed out of the shop, bumping into servants, Adira, his Dad, and Eugene on the way out of the castle while shouting out his apologies.

He managed to catch sight of the bird heading straight for the newly built village below the cliff, so he got on a gondola and moved down.

He chased that flighty crow all the way to the outskirts of the kingdom and didn’t realize he was heading for a swampy part of the area.

Finally, Hamuel bumped into a tree and dropped the blueprint, to the boy’s horror it looked like it was going to drop in the swamp but suddenly a gloved hand grabbed it out of nowhere.

Varian was stunned to see a tall blonde boy with glasses was hiding within the tree branches.

He called out, “Um, thank you! That belongs to me!”

“Really? This fascinating piece of creation came from your tiny head?” the stranger quipped, waving the paper around.

Varian sputtered, “What the heck?! Who are you to act like you know anything?!”

“You’re creating a way to run hot water into people’s homes, yes?”

“Actually, this is my second time, I’ve already created this same system back in Corona.”

“Really now…? Tell me, how often do the boilers blow up when they’re in use?”

Varian gawked, “H- How did you…?”

“The method is there, but your calculations are off on how much the boilers can take when they are fully functional.”

“You- Who are you?!”

The blonde jumped down, holding out his hand, “Name’s Hugo, Engineer and alchemist extraordinaire.”

Whoa… Varian couldn’t help but think, up close Hugo was actually pretty damn gorgeous surpassing even Cassandra and Eugene-both of his ex-crushes- in the looks department. And Eugene may have been his bi awaking, but Hugo cemented it for him especially if he was a fellow scientist just like him.

“Don’t I get a name too?”

He slightly blushed in embarrassment, realizing he was staring too long, “Um, yeah, it’s Varian.” And took the hand to shake but got the blueprint back instead.

“Huh, that’s a unique name.” Hugo curiously commented.

“My dad said it was what my mother named me before… she left.” He frowned.

“Oh. I’m… sorry to hear that.” The blonde genuinely looked sad.

“It’s fine, I never knew her so there’s nothing to be upset about.”

Hugo could tell that wasn’t a convincing statement, but he didn’t press.

Varian was about to say something else when Eugene came running in, shouting the younger’s name and got in front of the boy in a protective stance.

“Stay away from him, Varian, he’s trouble.” The man hissed.

“Wha-“

“Rider?! Wow! It’s been ages!” Hugo chuckled, “You’re like an old man now!”

“And you’re that same brat that stole what I had rightfully stolen first in Bardaros!”

Varian gawked again, “You’re a thief too?!” Damn it, that should not be hot, but Hugo was becoming the whole package in his eyes, and it was hard not to gush.

“Guilty Hairstripe.” Hugo rubbed his neck.

“Hey! Only I get to call him that! You have no right whatsoever!” Eugene protested.

“Interesting, so is he your sidekick on heists then?”

“What no! My thieving days are behind me! I’m married to the Princess of Corona now and- Why am I telling you this?! You’re obviously here to do no good!” wagging his finger at him.

Hugo shrugged, “Can’t say you’re wrong. I was sent to scope out the place by my boss. The Dark Kingdom is no longer hard to get to so what treasures will we find there?”

Eugene rolled his eyes, “Figures.” Then said to himself, “I’ll have to post some guards in front of the royal vault now…”

By then, Quirin made his appearance, “Boys, there you are! Your Highness, the king is requesting for you-“

At  the same time a gray-haired woman came from behind the trees, yelling, “Hugo! Why have you left your post-“

“Donella!” the man growled.

The woman’s eyes widen before scowling, “Quirin…”

The three young men stood there stunned from the older adults’ exchange.

They know each other? Both Varian and Hugo unknowingly thought together.

Quirin quickly moved his son behind him, “What are you doing here? Get out!”

“Dad? Who is she?”

Donella narrowed her eyes toward Varian, before saying, “He looks exactly like her, Quirin.”

The man bellowed, “DON’T YOU DARE BRING ULLA IN THIS!”

Eugene was outright stunned by Quirin’s outburst while Hugo was startled. But Varian was just confused, this woman… knew his mother? And judging from how poorly his father reacted to her, there was definitely some bad history between them. But why?

The two older people stared the other down before Quirin said, “Varian, return to the castle. Now.”

The boy gulped, knowing that was a direct order, as much as their relationship has gotten better this past year he knew it was best not to cross his father when he was like this.

Donella turned to her ward, “Hugo, we’re leaving, the plan is ruined now.”

Hugo didn’t object and started to go just as Varian started to leave. The both of them exchanged one last look, while uttering a low, “Bye/Bye…”

Eugene immediately noticed that, and his eyes widen, thinking, Uh-oh… I know that look…

This definitely did not bode well for his honorary little brother.

Varian hardly ate dinner, his father refused to give him straight answers on that strange woman. A woman that Hugo apparently worked for. Hugo… will he ever see him again? From that brief encounter alone, he was the most interesting person he ever met in his life! Eugene and Rapunzel came close but Hugo… Hugo was different, and that reason was well… Varian really likes him. He had it down bad for Cass before but this time… something was unique about this crush, something special.

He felt a genuine connection between him and the other boy, and he wanted more of it. But now… he can’t… Eugene had bad blood with the blonde and his father even more so with Hugo’s boss. A boss his mother apparently knew… he still can’t get over that, he never knew Ulla so why should it matter if someone else knew her too beside his father?

He sighed and stared out his bedroom window.

Eugene tracked down Quirin after dinner, shouting, “Quirin!”

The man looked back, “Yes, Your Highness?”

Eugene wanted to correct him on his title but now was not the time, Varian needed him.

“You need to talk to him, whatever is going on here, I’m sure-“

Quirin cut in, “I’m sorry, Prince, but I can’t. There’s too many painful memories that surround my past with my wife. I cannot let him go down a path that will end up destroying him like it destroyed her… As long as he is far away from that woman, he will be safe.” He moved on, not saying another word.

Edmund had witnessed the exchange and went to his son, patting his shoulder.

“Leave it be, son, Quirin has been through a lot and it’s not easy to get a man to open up to such wounds.”

“Do you know then?”

“Only of how he courted the mother of his child, I’m afraid I do not know of what became of her fate.”

Adira came on to the scene, “Indeed, I too only know so much of the Lady Ulla, but from what I understand Varian has many of her traits and it is why Quirin is so protective of the boy even when that boy shall soon be a man.”

Hector joined them then, “Well said sister, it is foolish of him to do so. That boy will be legally of age in less than two years, he won’t stay with Quirin forever.”

Adira nodded, “Not much can be done to persuade our brother otherwise.”

Eugene interjected, “Well I can’t blame him to be honest. I know the kid he interacted with, if the woman was bad news, Glasses is worse if not more.”

Adira questioned, “Are you sure you’re not just being bias?”

Eugene sputtered before protesting, “No! It’s- I just know we can’t trust him! The reason he was here was because they were planning to steal this kingdom’s treasures!”

Edmund motioned, “That is very bad. I believe you are right not to trust this boy.”

“I already posted guards around the vault, so nothing should get through, but! We’re missing a very important point here! We can keep Varian away from the woman, her assistant on the other hand… I have every reason to believe he will try to get to Varian.”

“And why do you think that, Fishskin?” Adira raised her brow.

Hector and Edmund looked just as confused.

Eugene started to get flustered realizing this was a more personal reason and obviously couldn’t share it without this reaching back to Quirin and poor Varian would be more sheltered than before. No, this was something only his older brother-figure can help out with.

“Um, you know I just remembered I forgot to do something! Gotta run!” rushing away from the trio before they could get a word in edgewise.

Eugene knocked on the door and opened it, finding Varian sitting by the window looking up to see the crescent moon and stars twinkling above the kingdom. Ruddiger staying close by.

The older took a spot next to him, saying, “Rapunzel and I do this all the time back home. We just sit by the window and admire the quiet and night sky.”

“That… sounds nice. Wish I could do that with someone too…” still idly staring out.

Eugene sighed, “Kid. He’s not worth it.”

Varian gapped, staring in shock, “How did you…?”

“Varian, I have been in countless relationships before Rapunzel, saw many people I’ve been around to ending up with their partner in life. I would be so happy for you right now if it wasn’t for the fact that guy is walking red flag.”

“Because he’s a criminal? Eugene you do realize how hypocritical you’re sounding right?! Hell, I was a criminal! And I did way worse than mere petty thievery!”

“I know that! But being around him is only going to break your heart! He’ll just use you and leave you the first chance he gets!”

Varian gasped and hung his head, his heart starting to feel heavy. What if Eugene was right? Scientist aside, he knew nothing of Hugo and Eugene obviously had a better idea of what the blonde’s character was really like seeing how the older had been on that side of the road before.

Eugene sadly sighed and touched the other’s head, “I’m sorry, buddy. I just don’t want you to get hurt.”

“I know…” he sniffled and went in for a hug, “Thank you… I needed that.”

Eugene returned the embrace before saying, “Hey, you’re just like Sunshine, you wear your heart on your sleeve.”

“It’s just… I never met someone I could genuinely talk to about the things I love doing, I thought… he could be my friend…”

“I understand…” wrapping an arm around him.

Varian then released a yawn which in turn made Eugene do the same. The latter saying, “Okay, time to call it a night.” And he started making for the door.

The younger voiced out, “Night Gene.”

Eugene smiled, “Night Var.” and closed the door behind him.

In a campsite not far off from the Dark Kingdom, Hugo was watching the dying fire while lying on his side. Donella sleeping close by to him. He couldn’t do the same as cute freckles, pretty blue eyes, and the cool blue stripe in raven hair plagued his mind. Heck even those buck teeth were an adorable part of the boy’s face.

Don’t get attached. That was Donella’s creed. You do your job as you have to, forming bonds would only get in the way of that.

He felt something crawling from his pocket and scampered up to his arm.

Hugo let himself smile at the small mechanical mouse he named Olivia and had her jump in his hand so he could keep her close. She was the only thing he could have in his life even if he wished he could have the boy called Varian in it to.

There was just… something about the other boy… he was interesting in so many ways especially where his love for science comes into play. Hugo genuinely found a peer worthy of his intellect and he wished he could get closer to explore the possibilities they could come up with.

But… it’s not meant to be. He will never get to see his cute Goggles again.

He laid on his back and found the brightest star in the sky, he is a fool to wish upon it, but just this once he’ll indulged in foolish flights of fancy only because he never wanted anything more than anything but to see the boy again that had captured his heart so quickly.

And who knows… maybe someday his wish will come true. He just had to wait and see.

Chapter Text

Two years had passed. And in that time, Eugene and Rapunzel’s royal duties had increased substantially which means Varian’s duties had also doubled given the many inventions he had created on their behalf to help with Corona’s agricultural growth. In fact his latest project involved making an automatic calling it a tractor, but he still had some kinks to work out with it since the engine doesn’t run for long periods of time and can only go a few square acres before breaking down in the middle of the field.

Which in turn caused an annoyance to the farmers of Old Corona and Varian was forced to go back to the drawing board. If only he had someone that could help him with the mechanics of engineering. For as good as he was at building stuff he can acknowledge he had his weak spots in some of the scientific fields he wasn’t well equipped for. Case in point, the boilers still function well but there were days Corona was forced to go without hot water after getting used to it for so long now.

The complaints he got, especially from Eugene, force him to work overtime just so people can get their hot water back. Well at least it’s nice to know he’s officially back in the kingdom’s good graces and being wanted does have its perks even if it was tiring.

He sighed, slumping over his formula board, he really could use another expert to help bounce ideas off with. Someone who was both an encourager and criticizer, that would help him improve immensely.

A flash of memory came to him then, of a blonde boy with round eyeglasses, amplifying his green eyes… he never forgot those eyes.

But as it is, given how long it has been since that fateful meeting, the chances of him seeing Hugo again were slim to nothing and even so, would the guy even want to help Varian if he was too busy living a life of crime? Probably not.

He sighed again and went back to work.

“You’re joking.” Hugo deadpanned.

Donella narrowed her gaze at him, dangerously saying, “Do I joke about anything?”

“It’s too risky, Rider will see through me in an instant.”

“Not if he’s in your debt. He doesn't have to trust you as long as he is repaying you for saving an important member of Corona’s court.”

“Maybe. But still, it’ll take some time to find what you want. The debt will be done if I don’t-“ he yelped feeling Donella grabbing his collar, pulling him close.

“Then you better not waste time.” She hissed, pushing him back.

He stumbled but was able to catch himself. Years of being nimble in the streets helped greatly in moments like these.

She then turned to a large man in the corner, “Cyrus, you know what needs to be done.”

The man grunted in confirmation and left.

Hugo turned and sighed, this was not how he wanted his reunion with Goggles to go.

Lance and Varian were in charge of helping deliver the latest harvest from Old Corona to the capital that day, Max was pulling the wagon full of produce with Ruddiger riding on the horse’s back. Suddenly, a tree fell to the side, startling the travelers and Max whinnied while rushing on.

Varian looked back to see two men covered head to toe in black coming after them while carrying torches to start lighting a fire onto the trees!

He gasps, “Lance look!”

The man did and let out a high pitch scream!

Meanwhile at the castle, Eugene was on patrol duty when Stan shouted out, “Sir! There’s smoke coming from the forest!”

“What?!” he ran to the top of the gate and used a telescope his wife had gifted him and saw through the lens, that Lance, Varian, and Max were in trouble!

He shouted, “Summon the fire brigade!”

Shouts of affirmation were sounded throughout the courtyard.

Eugene took it upon himself to jump onto a spare palace horse and as he was about to leave, Rapunzel raced to him.

“I just heard! Let me come with you!”

He didn’t argue back, knowing it would be pointless and helped her climb up to the front and they golloped away.

“Oh if anything happens to them…” Rapunzel fretted.

“Don’t worry, sunshine, we’ll save them.” He softly uttered while motioning the horse to go faster.

Varian began throwing his goo balls, but the arsonists were quick on their horses showing how masterfully trained the animals were and Max looked back in annoyance, snorting irritably.

Varian commented, “I know buddy. That’s definitely a problem.”

Lance was holding on to Max’s reins for dear life, as the horse was trying to stay one step ahead of the burning flames behind them.

Then suddenly one of the men in black got closer to the side of the wagon where Varian was and threw some kind of pouch at him. The pouch burst into some kind of powder and Varian coughed before he started feeling drowsy and slumped forward right into the man’s arms and was taken away.

Lance cried out, “Varian!” he wanted to stop Max, but unfortunately the flames were still behind them and the bandit was already moving too fast for them to go after him.

The bandit held Varian close before finding a stream away from the fire and got off the horse, he shooed the animal away and put Varian on his back before going into the water and swam to the other side. He gently set Varian against a tree and found the clothes he set aside and quickly changed into them.

Hugo put his glasses back on with a frown, the sleeping powder will wear off soon and he had to hide evidence with his involvement. He buried his black clothing behind a bush. Cyrus soon came and Hugo quickly hid himself.

Varian slowly woke up before jolting in panic, demanding, “Who are you?! Why did you kidnap me?!”

Cyrus had been sharping his blades before turning to Varian.

“You’re Corona’s Royal Engineer, you’ll fetch a pretty penny if the princess wants you back alive.” Moving his blade to the boy’s chin.

Varian sneered, “A ransom? That’s a big mistake. The princess and her husband will not take this kindly.”

Hugo had to hold his snicker in for how gutsy Goggles was. He’s lucky that this was all just a ruse because had this been real… Cyrus would’ve done far worse to him.

Cyrus snarled, “You are in no position to be saying such things! I call the shots!”

“And I’m saying it won’t matter once Eugene and the Guard get ahold of you!”

Cyrus fumed making Hugo realize he needs to step in now before his associate actually loses it and Varian will genuinely get hurt.

“You little brat-“ but the man was cut off when a stink bomb was throw at him and he coughed violently, and his eyes began to water.

With a cloth over his face, Hugo jumped in and grabbed a stunned Varian by the arm and used a handkerchief over the ravenhead’s mouth to get some distance between them and Cyrus.

Once they were in a clearing, Hugo removed the cloths and Varian gasped.

“Hey Goggles, long time no see.” The blonde smirked, putting on his best act possible even though a part of him was genuinely happy to see the boy again.

“Hugo?!” stars practically gleamed in Varian’s eyes.

The taller was sincerely taken aback. He actually remembered my name?!

Varian uttered, “You… you saved my life just now.”

Hugo gulped before he put on an air of authenticity, “I was in the neighborhood. Trying to find a place to settle down, as I don’t want to steal anymore. It just… makes one empty…” Wondering if he was fooling Varian or himself with that last line.

Varian lit up, “That’s wonderful! You should definitely stay here! Corona is perfect for fresh starts!”

Hugo was stunned by how eager Varian was for him to be here especially how cute he was with those puppy dog eyes of his.

Before he could get a word in edgewise, Eugene hollered, “VARIAN!”

The boys turned to see the royal couple riding in, before Rapunzel jumped off and bear hugged the ravenhead.

“Varian! You’re alright!”

The poor boy was nearly choked to death, making him wheeze, “Raps… too tight…”

She let go quickly, “Oh sorry!”

Eugene would have gone to hug him too were not for the glaring problem in front of him.

“What the hell are you doing here?! First the Dark Kingdom, now Corona?! You were behind that fire weren’t you?!”

Hugo sweated, trying find a way to smooth-talk his way out of this when the blue-eyed angel next to him thankfully spoke up.

“NO! He saved me from the one that did cause the fire!”

“Uh yes!” Hugo quickly added on, “He was being held captive! The bastard was going to ransom him out! I did what I had to, to get him out of there!”

Rapunzel slowly said, “If that is the case… then we owe him a debt of gratitude, Eugene. Whatever past actions you hold against him does not compared to how he saved Varian’s life just now.”

“Yeah but Sunshine! He’s- he’s a criminal! We can’t let him come waltzing freely into Corona!”

Varian groaned, and face-palmed, “Not this again…”

Rapunzel admittedly was very taken aback by her husband’s attitude, they have forgiven and pardoned how many criminals in their lifetime together? And Eugene won’t give one boy a simple chance? It was truly baffling.

Hugo straighten up and got serious, “I’m a rogue now, Rider. I left my boss to forge my own path all because I want to give up on thieving. To find a home where I can belong to.”

Varian and Rapunzel looked expectantly at Eugene, the words had to have resonated with him in some capacity.

Eugene was skeptical but his wife was correct about the debt. Like it or not, the tall blonde deserved the benefit of doubt, and they had to repay the favor regardless.

He inhaled deeply, “Fine. Glasses can come back to the castle with us. But!” he pointed his finger close to the boy’s face, “I will be keeping a close eye on you… And if you so much as slip up… Oh-ho-ho, you are going to pay so much for it.”

Hugo rolled his eyes, “Whatever you say, Rider.”

“That’s Prince Eugene to you and I expect you to address me as such as long as you are here.”

Rapunzel and Varian exchanged odd looks to this. The former feeling so confused on her husband’s sudden hostility while the latter could only shrug, still feeling lost on why Eugene was like this toward Hugo. Maybe now with the blonde here he can finally get some of those answers.

Eugene started to go, and Rapunzel followed after him. The two boys turned toward each other and traded small smiles.

Then they went after the royal couple, walking all the way back to the capital.

Chapter Text

When the four made it to the castle courtyard, Lance, Max, and Ruddiger were there waiting and upon seeing Varian, Lance and Ruddiger pounced the boy, being so happy that he was okay. Then Lance noticed the grim look on Eugene’s face, and he understood why the moment he saw a certain glasses-wearing blonde he recognized.

“Ohhh…” the man crossed his arms, “Mind explaining what he is doing here?”

Hugo rolled his eyes, “Nice to see you too, Strongbow, should have known you would be hanging around here too since you were always Rider’s personal lackey.”

Eugene let out a sarcastic laugh, “Ha-ha… you are such a funny guy!” gritting his teeth.

Lance scowled, “We were partners in crime, something you never understood…”

Varian called out, “Okay that does it! Can someone please explain to me what is up between you guys?!”

Rapunzel added, “I agree with Varian, something needs to be clear up here.”

Hugo said, “There’s nothing to say, these two are just butthurt that I was the better thief than them.”

Both men shouted out their protests.

“We were working a job and you double crossed us!”

“Yeah! And then you set the guards on us!”

“Hey, you snooze you lose! I was only eleven and I was able to best two expert thieves out of a priceless diamond scepter! That’s just pathetic!”

The three went on arguing while Rapunzel and Varian traded side-glances.

It all made sense now, Eugene took a blow to his ego when someone much younger than him was able to best the famous and skillful Flynn Rider. But more than that they were two sides of the same coin judging from how they act around other people.

Rapunzel than whistled between her fingers getting their attention.

“Okay! Clearly we’ll need to work on rebuilding trust while Hugo is here, and I don’t want to hear any complaints!” seeing how both older men were about to object. “Remember Eugene, we have a royal debt to fulfill, and you will be on your best behavior with our guest.”

Eugene sighed deeply, “Yes dear…”

Hugo stifled his laughter, Flynn Rider, the once heartthrob to so many has officially fallen into the old ball and chain trap, and he couldn’t be more pleased with that.

Eugene just glared at the blonde, knowing exactly what the other was thinking.

Rapunzel addressed Hugo, “Let me show you where you’ll be staying in the meantime.”

Varian went closer to her, “Um Rapunzel, actually…” he whispered into her ear.

“Oh! You sure?”

He nodded.

Eugene didn’t like this, he could tell the boy was up to something.

The princess voiced out, “Okay then, Hugo would you be alright sharing a room with Varian?”

Hugo was stunned but smirked in turn, “That would be fine by me, your highness. Thanks for your hospitality, Goggles.”

“Goggles?” Eugene gritted.

Varian rolled his eyes, “You and Lance call me all sorts of nicknames, what’s the difference if he does it too?”

There was a pause and Eugene stammered over his words before letting out a yell and threw his arms in the air before powerwalking away.

Lance and Rapunzel exchanged looks with the former shrugging.

“Could you keep an eye on him while I show Hugo around?” she requested.

“Sure thing, princess, even I’m starting to get a little worried.” He rushed after his best friend.

Rapunzel turned back to the alchemists and motioned onward to give the tour.

Hugo looked around the spacious room, turns out, Varian’s second lab and workspace was in this wing of the castle and hence he needed a spare room for overnight stays if the project or experiment was taking longer than expected.

A spare bed had been brought in for him, making him across from Varian’s bed. Gotta say, he was stoked that Varian wanted to be roomies with him in the first place. No pain-in-the-ass prince consort breathing down his neck and he can get closer to the other boy while also being able to seek out the information Donella wanted.

The last part wasn’t so much on his mind as he just wanted to get to know Varian first and foremost.

And it seemed the other had the exact same idea as he motioned, “Come on, I’ll show you my lab, and then I want your thoughts on some projects I’ve been doing.”

Hugo lit up.

“Sounds perfect.” He smiled.

Lance found Eugene by the training grounds as he was punching a straw dummy.

He slowly started, “Okay. Clearly you are tense about a certain thief that is staying here with us, and I totally get it but maybe… you’re overacting a bit here?”

“No, not when that slick brat is too close to Varian.”

“Why is that problem? The kid could use some more friends-“

“Friendship isn’t the word I use.”

“Wait… are you saying…?” Lance’s eyes widen.

“It’s definitely a crush. But I’m worried that Varian will get in too deep with him and his heart will get broken. We’ve seen it far too many times in our world Lance, thieves that only wanted one thing from someone… No matter the gender…”

Lance hung his head sadly, “You’re right on that, that’s why I’m making sure whoever the girls end up with will be good enough for them.”

“See?! Now you get it!”

“But isn’t this supposed to be Quirin’s job?”

“I like Quirin, Lance, but the guy is too old fashioned to understand what a queer relationship is, and he won’t see what you and I are seeing.”

“I… guess you’re right, plus it’s uncertain if he’ll even be accepting of his son liking men like that.”

Eugene nodded, “Exactly, so we have to really watch out for Varian here. Between his dad and the playboy we have to be extra vigilant. So Lance, buddy, help me keep an eye on him while I’m stuck with royal duties and such.”

“It’s… a tall order… but…” he sighed, “I guess when you put it like that…”

The other man slapped his shoulder goodheartedly, “Thanks pal, I really appreciate this.”

Hugo was mesmerized by all the notes, blueprints, and the alchemy chemistry set on the table. He’s own stuff with alchemy was good to say the least given his stink bombs were a success, but he was lacking with some chemical elements that resulted in dismal failures and Donella endlessly lecturing him of nearly blowing up their hideout on occasion.

But judging from the number of alchemy balls the blue-eyed boy had, Varian was far more advanced in this particular field of study, and he could learn a lot from him while he was here.

Varian brought his attention back to the board and pointed out what he was trying to do with his newest project, a tractor. Hugo was fascinated by the concept and listened to what Varian was doing with the prototypes.

The blonde smirked, “Just give me two days and I’ll having it working posthaste.”

Varian gaped before crossing his arms and smirked back, “Alright. Impress me. We’ll start at dawn.”

Hugo moved his face closer to Varian’s, huskily uttering, “I look forward to it.”

Chapter Text

The test drive worked perfectly to Hugo as he made it through the whole field without the tractor breaking down.

“Smooth as butter.” He commented with a smirk as he stopped the mobile right in front of Varian’s home.

Varian had been on the front steps, watching the whole thing in absolute awe. He had been writing down notes during the test run but stopped once he realized Hugo had fixed the kinks completely and he was just spellbound by it.

“You alright there, bluebird?” Hugo chuckled.

“Bluebird?” that got Varian out of his daze.

“Sure, because your eyes remind me of them, but more than that you have ideas that you wish can take flight, soaring to new heights and all that.”

Varian was momentarily stunned, “That is… astutely perspective of you.”

“Well, after being in close quarters with you for these last three days, you pick up on things.” Hugo shrugged with a smile.

Varian felt warm going all over and had to move to the side to clear his throat, “We um… we should get something to eat before heading back to the castle.” Making his way to the kitchen.

“Right behind you, bluebird.” The blonde kept smirking.

Varian nearly fumbled in his steps, knowing he will have to get used to that nickname while Hugo was here. Every other nickname he had ever received was teasing and good natured but this one… was very sweet and personal as in he would never want anyone but Hugo calling him that.

Quirin greeted the boys, and although he was made aware of the situation of the taller boy saving his son, he still kept his guard up given he remembered their brief encounter two years ago along with a certain woman. The prince said as much that the boy would be carefully watched every step of the way and for that he was thankful. But he had to be sure that Donella never said anything about Ulla for fear of Varian finding out the truth about his mother.

He had been watching the boys working hard on the tractor project these last few days and so far no mention of Donella or Ulla has been brought up much to his relief but the longer that boy stays here, the higher that risk becomes. So when he gets the chance he will question the young man and if necessary to threaten him to never utter a word about either women.

All three of them ate their lunch and when they were done, Varian said he needed to use the bathroom and left, giving Quirin that much needed chance.

He cleared his throat, “So… Hugo?”

The blonde raised his brow, he figured Varian’s father was the stoic, quiet type like Cyrus was but for the man to suddenly start talking to him put him a little on edge.

“Yes…?”

“The prince told me you became a rogue, cutting off from your previous life. But I have to know, did she ever tell you anything about her past?” he frowned.

Hugo was taken aback by this and wisely figuring he shouldn’t use Donella’s name around this man, he calmly replied, “My boss liked keeping things to herself, sir, she took me in when I was an orphan starving on the streets. She had a use for me, and I obeyed without question. She never shared anything personal to me, only what missions she wanted me to do. I really don’t know anything about the woman that took me in.” he clutched his cup, realizing that stung more than it should have.

Quirin was absolutely stunned by this revealing, his face softened looking sad at the boy, because that’s exactly what he was, someone who was like his son. Young and vulnerable to someone who only hurts them. After all that demon Zhan Tiri took advantage of a young woman’s emotions so it doesn’t surprise him that something similar happened with Hugo.

“My apologies.”

Hugo looked up, shocked.

“I assumed too quickly. Just because you worked for that woman doesn’t mean she would tell you anything. Please come stay in Old Corona once the debt has been paid off.”

Hugo gawked, he never expected that!

“Are… are you serious?”

Quirin slightly smiled, “Of course, I’ll get the rest of the village to help build you a house, help you settle in comfortably, and get a start on a whole new life.”

“That’s… I… I don’t know what to say…”

“Just think on it, no need to make a decision right now.”

“I… alright, thank you.”

By then Varian came back into the room, hugging and saying bye to his dad and he and Hugo left.

Once they were past the village, Varian turned to the blonde.

“I um… accidentally overheard you and my dad…” he admitted.

“Oh? Which part?”

“I was coming back from the bathroom when you started mentioning your past… I didn’t want to pry but I wasn’t about to interrupt you either so I’m coming clean about it now. You mad?”

“It’s… not an easy conversation to bring up but I’m not upset, these things just happen.”

Varian sighed in relief, before inquiring hopefully, “Are you going to take him up on his offer?”

“I… I’m not sure.”

“But didn’t you say you wanted a home you can belong to?”

“That’s…” he sighed, “Look Goggles, when you’ve been on the run your whole life, it’s hard to just pick a place and settle down. You don’t know when you might to need to leave again so it’s important you don’t get attached to a certain place even if you feel you belong there.”

Varian looked at him full of sadness, “I… I never thought about that… even when I-“ he stopped short, not knowing how well Hugo will react to his past crimes. Thievery was one thing but what he did was on a whole other level. Kidnapping, drugging half of Corona, threatening the royal family, near regicide… the list goes on.

“When you what?” the taller curiously questioned.

Varian took a deep breath, “Promise me you won’t freak out?”

Hugo nodded.

The shorter boy proceeded to tell him the whole story, from the day he met Rapunzel to all the way when he was stopped by her use of the black rocks making him land right in prison and then later he helped the Saporians take over the kingdom but was able to turn around in time and help Rapunzel stop them.

When he was finished he saw Hugo was giving him this blank expression on his face until the blonde said, “Excuse me for one moment.” Turning away from the other boy-who started to worry-as Hugo processed everything with his nose starting to bleed and he had to wipe it with his sleeve. Never had he fell harder for one person.

He turned back with a grin, “Goggles, you have just quite possibly became the hottest person in the world.”

Varian gawked and stammered, “I- You- You’re not scared?!”

“Pfft, of what? You were doing what you had to survive and help your father, honestly I would have done the same in your situation.”

Varian was utterly stunned and couldn’t move, then out of nowhere tears began running down his cheeks.

“Whoa, hey! I didn’t mean to make you cry!” Hugo panicked.

“No! No, it’s not that…” he wiped the wetness away, “It’s just… you get it… you understand why I endured so much, I regret it, I do, but… no one knows how much of a painful time that was for me and obviously I never talk about it with the others because I know we rather not bring it up and forget it ever happened. Not now we’ve managed to move on and are in a better place now. But still… I’m force to keep my guilt and regrets to myself, and sometimes I get nightmares about that day, over and over. I can’t talk about it without bringing pain again to the people I care about.”

Hugo was momentarily stunned and uttered, “Oh bluebird…” then in a swift motion, he pulled Varian in for a hug, surprising both him and the other boy. But gently told him, “You never have to hide anything from me cause I’ll be there to listen.”

Varian slightly gasped, and moved his face being in awe of this man before him. Without thinking he moved his lips onto Hugo’s.

The other was caught off guard but quickly reciprocated the kiss, both of their eyes closed in bliss, as they tasted each other and couldn’t get enough of it.

When they took a breath, Hugo uttered out, “Wow.”

Varian slightly chuckled, rasping, “Yeah… wow.”

“So… it wasn’t just me then…”

“I… guess not, I’ve thought about you ever since that first meeting.” Varian confessed.

Hugo beamed, “Me too.”

“Really?” the raven-head was astonished.

“Really, really…” pressing their foreheads together.

“This is… wow… I don’t have the words.”

“I know… I never felt this close to anyone in my life.”

“And I had crushes but nothing ever came from those… you just maybe my first love.”

Hugo breath hitched before slowly replying, “I think… you’re my first love too.”

Varian’s eyes shined from hearing that and gradually went in for another kiss, but Hugo stopped him with a finger.

“As much as I would love to feel your lips again, we should be heading back to the castle.”

Varian slightly groaned but nodded, no doubt Eugene is fuming by now that they had been gone for a long period of time, and he doesn’t want Hugo to take the blame. Instead he grabbed the blonde’s hand, and they started walking.

Content to grip and squeeze each other’s gloved palms all the way to the castle.

Chapter Text

Stargazing was perfect for a first date between two scientists. Varian knew the right spot away from Corona’s bright lamps lighting up the kingdom just past the bridge. Setting up the telescope up in just the right angle to find certain planets and stars.

Hugo set down a blanket and picnic basket on the ground, so that they may enjoy a private meal afterwards before sitting down with a smile as he watched Varian looking right into the lens to start mapping out the star chart.

“Found Leo.” He stated.

“And Coma Berenices?”

Varian had to adjust the telescope to his left before proclaiming, “Yup! There it is! As some would consider it the tail end of Leo because it looks like a bush of hair.”

“There’s a reason behind that you know, it’s based off a legend of an Egyptian queen that worried about her husband going into battle and she pledged to Aphrodite, the goddess of love that she would cut off her beautiful long, blonde hair if the goddess would bring her husband home safely. The promise was fulfilled, and the queen offered her hair in the temple where Aphrodite placed it in the sky.”

Varian was gawking at him, making him question, “What?”

“Sorry, it’s just… that story remained me of what Rapunzel and Eugene told me about how their journey started and that just sounded eerily similar to me to a degree.”

“Oh? I was curious as to how the princess locked Rider down, riches and power came to mind, but they are so lovely-dovely toward the other that there’s definitely something I’m missing here.”

“It’s a long story, if you’re up for it.” Varian takes a seat on the blanket.

Hugo shrugged, “Got nothing but time, bluebird, go ahead.”

So Varian tells him the whole tale about the lost princess and the thief. And when he was done, Hugo was blinking in surprise.

“She had magic hair that could glow? Because she was the so-called ‘Sundrop’?”

Varian shrugged, “It’s far fetch I know but I witnessed it all firsthand especially when I met her with that long blonde hair to begin with. I even had to translate the Demanitus’ scroll involving the incantations of the Sundrop and Moonstone and saw the demon, Zhan Tiri wreaking havoc on Corona. A man of scientist I may be, but I can also recognize magic when I see it.”

“Okay so… before all that happen, she had healing powers and when Rider cut her hair she still had some of that power through her tears?”

“Exactly, it was how she managed to save Eugene from death.”

“Dang… you weren’t kidding that the myth was eerily similar to them. Both women lost their hair so their loved ones could be returned to them. Creepy.”

Varian chuckled.

After that, they took turns using the telescope to map out the rest of the constellations next to Leo and Coma Berenices. Being Leo Minor, Cancer, Crater, Hydra, Lynx, Sextans, Ursa Major, and Virgo.

“The Sickle of Leo looks bright tonight.” Hugo commented, looking through the lens.

“Should be, it’s a warm spring night.” Varian said from the blanket, getting ready to set up their meal.

Hot soup in containers of his own invention, as well as hot chocolate for afterwards as the night gets colder. Chicken drumsticks were set on the plates along with green bean salad and ambrosia fruit salad. And finally pinwheel sandwiches as they were set in the middle of the blanket.

“Nice spread.” Hugo turned around and sat down across from his date.

“I think Rapunzel overdid it on the food when I asked her to help me but yeah, take your pick of what you want.”

“Bluebird, when you’ve been on run as long as I have you got to savor what you can eat and since staying at the palace this is the most food I have seen and ate in a long while.”

“Sheesh… I know from Lance, Eugene, and the girls they lived hard lives as thieves, but to nearly starve like that… Thank you for surviving for as long as you have.”

Hugo smirked, “Because then we would not have met?”

“That’s exactly it!” he exclaimed taking the other boy by surprise.

“Oh, well then…” Hugo flushed, “Then I should also thank you in turn for surviving especially since you were on your own for so long without your dad…”

Varian blushed cutely in return, and they started eating.

At that moment someone else was looking through a telescope as the boys were enjoying their meal, chatting, and laughing away.

Eugene sighed deeply and moved the object down. He was right on his and Rapunzel’s balcony trying to keep an eye on them while also keeping his distance.

He never wanted them to get as close as they have, but… the damage has been done and now the only thing he can do is be there for Varian when the inevitable happens.

He sighs, “Oh, kid, you’re flying too close to the sun. I never wanted this for you…”

“Eugene…” his wife walks up to him and wraps herself around his arm, “Have you ever thought maybe you’re only assuming the worst of Hugo because he reminds you too much of your past self?”

Eugene let out an uneasy laugh, “No! Of- of course not!”

She gave him a dubious look and he deflated.

“Alright… maybe… it’s possible I do have some issue with the fact that he reminds me of how I started out in life. Mistakes I wish I can take back…”

Rapunzel’s lips grew into a smile, “Now we’re getting somewhere!” she took the telescope and saw through the lens of how sweet and cozy the boys were being toward the other.

She recalled how they were acting after lunch when they came back to the castle earlier that day and they definitely moved forward with their relationship to more than just friends and colleagues, and it seems her husband has caught on to this, albeit trying to keep a respectable distance while still observing from afar all for Varian’s sake.

And she can understand why. Varian holds a special place in both their lives as the kid brother they never had and would of course want to make sure the alchemist  had found the right person to be with. Why if there was a girl instead of Hugo holding Varian’s interest right now, then you can bet she would be just as protective as Eugene is being currently. After all, given what happened with Cass, she would be weary of another woman possibly breaking Varian’s heart.

That is to say, she wasn’t disputing what Eugene was putting down about Hugo as it’s very much warranted. Hugo was still a stranger to them all but after just seeing how well Varian and him get along she has to trust in her heart that Varian can handle himself and that Hugo was indeed a worthy partner for Varian.

She put down the telescope to face her husband, “Eugene… If Hugo meant what he said about starting anew someplace then you might as well talk to him and get to know him better. Because from I’m seeing with him and Varian right now, he’s going to be here a lot longer than we think. It’ll only be a matter of time.”

He sighs, “That’s what I’m afraid of…”

“Honey…” taking his hand to her cheek, “We have to let him go at some point…”

“It’s just… we failed him before…”

“I know…” she somberly uttered.

“If he gets hurt by the very thing I could have help prevented then what good am I to anyone?”

“We have to let things run its course… To let them figure out where they want to go with this relationship without us getting in the way.”

“I… guess you’re right… and… maybe I do need to talk things out with Hugo so that I can get a better understanding.”

She smiled warmly at him, “That’s all I can ask for.” And they exchanged a quick kiss before heading back inside together.

The picnic basket was off to the side once they had finished their food. Hugo and Varian were side-to-side on the blanket, watching the stars without the telescope.

They could see the Milky Way and the Big Dipper and the other constellations they had been mapping out since the beginning of their date.

With no need to say anything, Varian moved his hand over, and Hugo noticed moving his own hand to the middle of the blanket, having the two hands intertwined between them. Making the couple feel very content while staring at the other lovingly.

Guilt and dark thoughts crept into Hugo’s mind, and he had to mentally push them back as he said in his head, Just a little longer… just let me have this for a little while longer… please…

Varian made a soft smile and Hugo reciprocated. For one night, they could be truly happy, and nothing was going to take that away from them.

Chapter Text

Varian showed Hugo Herz de Sonne’s tunnels and with it the giant automatons that were currently powered down. Hugo was absolutely star-struck by the sight.

His boyfriend saw his face and giggled, “Knew you would love this.”

Hugo motioned excitedly, “This is what you used when you-“ stopping short when he remembered that was a touchy subject to bring up around Varian but hoped the other boy got the gist.

Varian did and just nodded, “Yeah, I kept the ones I made down here away from the public, not wanting to be accused of trying to overtake the kingdom again. However, if there’s a way to make them smaller and change the design…”

“Say no more, I know where you’re going with this.” Hugo smiled.

They got to work on studying the machines’ mechanisms and making blueprints to make a smaller and friendlier version of the automatons so people won’t freak out so much when seeing them around the kingdom.

The boys made small talk now and then, sometimes working in complete silence but it was calming and comforting to them knowing their partner was nearby doing his part for the project. Varian especially was gleeful to all this as this is exactly how he pictured their partnership would go just weeks before Hugo reentered into his life and saving him from the bandits.

Remembering that now, he voiced, “Oh yeah, did I ever thank you?”

Hugo, still focused on the blueprints, quipped out, “For what? Kissing the air out of you?”

Varian rolled his eyes, still concentrating on his work, “No, I’m talking about when you saved me from that bandit.” Not seeing Hugo fumble with the measuring tools and started sweating.

“Oh… right… that…” he gritted out. “You don’t have to, really. I was only doing what needed to be done.”

“Even still, it was very brave of you to step in like that. I should have been more careful and not run my mouth off like that. I could have been killed if you hadn’t come when you did…”

“You’re giving me way too much credit. I was just in the right place at the right time, that’s it. Besides I don’t risk my neck out for just anybody, I saw you and recognized you right away. There’s a reason I was never a good person, Varian, if it doesn’t matter to me then I don’t bother at all.” Holding his head down and clutched his fists together.

Varian looked back, surprised, that was certainly something he didn’t consider about his boyfriend before. The alchemist saw a hero before his eyes, but forgot his lover had a criminal past too. There were dark secrets he had yet to learn about the other boy even after sharing his own dark past.

He can’t push; he knows that but he was dying to know everything about Hugo. Questionable morals aside, it did pique his interest that Hugo was basically admitting he would save only him and no one else. That was… sweet and morbid at the same time.

“You hardly knew me then, why was I so special that you would risk your own life like that?”

“We said as much with our confessions, didn’t we? I couldn’t stop thinking about you after our first meeting so yeah, I had to get you out of there or I would regret it forever.” Not sure if he was believing in his own lies or if a small part of him knew that to be the truth, because if that had been a real kidnapping then… Yes, he would have gone out of his way to rescue Varian, knowing what he knows now, his bluebird was his soulmate whether he wanted to admit that or not.

Varian flushed under the low lighting; he was utterly thrilled that Hugo thought that way about him. He needed to return the favor somehow but without knowing much about the engineer he had to take a chance to ask.

“Can you um, tell me more about your former life?”

Hugo sighed, “There really isn’t much else to tell. I told your dad everything that day.”

“Then… what about your boss or rather ex-boss? What missions did she make you go on and how close were you?”

Hugo gulped, he knows of the current mission he is on and… he hated prying information from Varian like this but he was due to report in soon and without nothing to show for it… Donella will surely find some way to punish him… or worse…

He looked right at his partner when thinking that last thought.

“Don… Donella wasn’t my birth mother, but… she’s still a part of me… You know?”

“Yeah… I think I get that, I never knew much of my own mother but I know she’s definitely a part of me since I hardly share any traits with my Dad. Crazy, isn’t it? I never met the woman for my entire life and yet somehow…” Varian looks in the metal of the machine to see his reflection, “I am so much like her…”

“Do you know what happened to her?”

“Not a clue. Dad refuses to say anything about it. Over the years I tried asking but was met with silence or was outright shut down.”

Shit. Well at least he could tell Don exactly what Varian told him just now. Quirin was a very quiet man and kept his secrets close to his chest, if anyone knows anything about Ulla’s journal then it would definitely be him. Varian was very much in the dark as anyone else and Hugo was very grateful for that, that meant Donella couldn’t harm him in any way as she tries to further her plans.

He went back to keep working on the blueprints.

Confused, the alchemist mentioned, “You didn’t exactly answer my question.”

“I go- went on missions to steal for her. Whatever she wanted, money, supplies, you name it. Became a master thief because of her, taught me alchemy too, it’s how I was able to make my stinkbombs.”

“She knows alchemy too?!” Varian gapped, “Where did she learn?!”

Hugo shrugged, “You got me, like I told your dad she never shared any personal information with me. I really have no idea who she was before meeting me.”

Though Hugo was starting to have his suspicions regarding the mysterious past she shares with Varian’s mother. The shorter boy obviously took after Ulla the most in terms of where he got his alchemy skills from. Donella had to have been Ulla’s lab partner at some point in their lives, it was the only logical explanation Hugo could come up with.

Varian sighed, “Yeah… it’s an unfortunate correlation we seem to have regarding maternity role models in our life… Moms, am I right?” he tried to joke but it fell flat, seeing how it was making him emotionally vulnerable from Hugo’s perception.

Hugo came from behind and wrapped his arms around the shorter boy and kissed Varian’s head.

Varian made a tiny smile and leaned back into his boyfriend’s chest.

Chapter Text

“So… the boy truly knows nothing of his other parent?” Donella skeptically questioned Hugo in one of Corona’s dark alleyways.

“Affirmative. He has tried getting the answers from his dad but nothing ever came of it. From what I understand from their history they had a fairly estranged relationship and it was only within these last few years they finally got it together.”

“But Quirin still refuses to share information about Ulla to him?”

“That’s right. So… maybe it’s best we cut our losses here since you know there is no way I’ll be able to convince a former Dark Kingdom knight to hand over such sensitive information without blowing my cover.”

Donella stayed silent under the dim lighting of a nearby street lamp, Hugo wasn’t sure if she actually considering his words or if she was forming a new plan to get what she wanted. He really hoped it was the former but he wasn’t holding his breath.

Suddenly he heard her muttering under her breath.

“…I’ll never understand what she saw in him… The boy has a gift, her gift, and yet he didn’t even help nurture that ability, or care for the boy for that matter…”

Hugo rose his brow in confusion. “You… okay there, Don?”

Donella shook her head, “Just questioning old life choices, which is why I still need that journal.”

Hugo took a deep breath, time to ask the hard-hitting question, even if it spelled out his doom.

“She was your lab partner, wasn’t she? That’s why Quirin doesn’t like bringing you up around Varian, you know what happened to his mom.”

“She was. We were childhood friends and went to the same university together to expand our scientific knowledge. Eventually she met that knight and settled down with him…” there was a dark look in her eyes as she said that last part.

Hugo slowly said, “I’m surprised you easily shared that.”

“You need a reason to get the boy to find that journal. Have him look up the records of the Institution of Science and Exploration. That was the name of the university we attended, once the boy sees his mother’s name in there, he’ll want to start finding the answers for himself.”

“That’s a big gambit, there’s no guaranteed he’ll actually do that.”

“And yet it’s the only option we have.”

Changing tactics he questioned, “And when you do have this journal? What then? What’s the endgame here, Don?”

“I’ll finally have what I rightfully deserve. Unlimited knowledge at my fingertips, and making our organization the most powerful in all the seven kingdoms.”

“And I’ll be rewarded for my loyalty and service?”

“Yes, and eventually when I retire, you’ll take over as my rightful successor.”

His eyes widen in shock, taking a moment to absorb this before rasping out, “Why are you telling me this now?”

“I had to make sure you were ready first. You trained long and hard, done every task and mission I have asked of you, and now you are proving yourself well by following this mission exactly to how I had planned it. You have gained the boy’s trust perfectly, so now it’s only a matter of time until you and he finds the journal and bring it straight to me.”

Hugo was starting to feel sick to his stomach, it would have been one thing if he knew where the journal was before going through this elaborate ruse and could steal the book before anyone was the wiser. But now… everything has changed. Hugo can’t imagine being without Varian by his side.

The day after being the tunnels, Eugene pulled Hugo aside after breakfast and the two walked around the capital as Eugene did his routine patrol.

Eugene sighed, “So… you may have noticed I… I haven’t been very nice to you when you first came here…”

Hugo deadpanned, “No, really? I had no idea.”

The older man rolled his eyes. “Fine, I deserved that. Rapunzel was right, I should have given you a fair chance, it’s clear now that you’re trying to start anew and with someone that you deeply care for…”

Hugo gulped, he really didn’t think he was that great of an actor to fool even the great Flynn Rider.

Eugene continued, “I’ve been where you are, looking out for number one until something better came along. Blondie and I had our bumps sure,” he fondly chuckled, “I tried getting out of our deal numerous times and she would have to threaten me with her flying pan just to keep me in line.” He sighed lovingly, “Right from the start she kept me on the right path in life.”

Hugo twitched nervously, “And, um… this has to do with me, why?”

“I’m saying you don’t have to go looking for another place, no more having to run from your problems.” The man touched his shoulder, surprising Hugo. “Because we’ll be right here to give any support you need, to repay off any deed that’s been done in the past.”

Hugo was stunned to say the least, first Quirin offering to build him a home and now Rid- Eugene was basically telling him he could have a clean slate! This… this was too much to bear all at once. How did a thief like him find such luck? And the worst part was he knows he doesn’t deserve it because he was here as a plant, a spy, and a manipulator to follow his master’s instructions precisely.

He tried to speak but his throat kept closing on him.

Eugene seemed to understand what was going on and patted the blonde’s back.

“You don’t have to say or do anything right now, I am just thinking about both you and Varian and how much better this would help both of you. Because to me he’s the little brother I never had and I want him to be happy. And I have to come to grips that you’re what makes him happy the most.”

Hugo gapped, “I am?”

“Yes, I haven’t seen him this joyful since before…” he couldn’t finish but Hugo could take a few guesses that it involves a fourteen-year-old boy being forced to take a dark path in his life.

Eugene cleared his throat. “Just… think about it. Rapunzel and I would be so glad if you stayed for him but we would also respect your decision to go too, but please talk it over with him before doing that. I really don’t want his heart to break over someone who was too cowardly to show his true feelings especially for someone who supposedly loves him.” Saying that last bit in a firm, warning tone before he started walking away.

“Just some food for thought.” He hums then goes off to finish patrolling leaving the younger thief to reflect on his thoughts.

Hugo began wandering the streets of Corona, Eugene’s words echoing on his head.

(Inadvertently, he started singing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hIsJBDFoUM)

Hugo then outright told Donella, “What if I don’t want that life anymore?”

The older woman’s brows rose up, stunned.

“What the hell are you saying, Hugo? This is what you always wanted!”

“No.” he firmly said.

“No?”

“No,” he repeated. “That is what you want for me and I am greatly honored to finally know you held me in such high regard this whole time. But it’s too little, too late now. I know where I belong now and that’s here.”

Donella releasing a disbelieving laugh, “You can’t be serious?! They won’t accept you, and for all the things you have done, Hugo! I told you to never get attached and you did exactly that!”

“I did! And you’re right! I’m in too deep now to go back to how things used to be! I can’t do this anymore, Don!”

“You stupid boy, don’t you realize once you steal the journal, they’ll want nothing to do with you anymore?! What will Ulla’s son think of you then? Withholding such valuable information about his own mother’s personal items will certainly bring you closer to together…” she hissed.

Hugo gulped. She was right on that account, which is exactly why he had no choice but to say, “I was hoping I could talk you out of this… but now I know it’s impossible. I’m not going steal the journal.”

Her eyes bulged out from his declaration.

He stated, “I’m officially quitting from the gang, I’m going to live out the rest of my days here with the man I love. Goodbye, Don.” And he rushed out of there and disappeared into the shadows.

Cyrus came out from his hiding spot, having witnessed the whole thing.

“The boy got too close to the royal engineer.” He spoke out, “I saw them holding hands and kissing one too many times. I thought he was just putting on an act.”

Donella shook her head in frustration, “Of all the most ridiculous things to have happen to him… Hugo was always reliable in the past because he always took the creed to heart! And now the one time he doesn’t, I can’t have the very thing I want most!” her eyes went dark again, “The boy needs to be punished for this insubordination…”

Cyrus nodded in agreement.

Chapter Text

“You had a crush on Rider?” Hugo questioned while he and his boyfriend were once more in the castle lab, going over the automatons’ final designs.

Varian rubbed the back of his head, “Yeah… I was young and kept seeing his wanted posters around town and I was under the impression he was the same hero as the book series.”

Hugo chuckled, “I can see why you thought that, the dude practically lived life on the edge the same way Finnigan Rider did. Me on the other hand I always knew him as a thief and well… he might’ve been my first crush too…” he admitted with tainted cheeks.

Varian was stunned before smirking, “It was the goatee, wasn’t it?”

Hugo smacked his face, “Ugh, I wish it wasn’t, but it was.”

The raven-head snorted, “Yeah, that knavish rogue look really gets people swooning.” Bumping his body against the blonde’s.

“We must never speak of this outside this room.” Hugo stated.

“Agreed, it would give Eugene an even bigger head than before.”

The two shared a guffaw before the laughter slowly and the two exchanged loving looks.

They slowly grasped hands and Hugo uttered, “I… never thought this was possible for me… This life that you have been willing to share with me…”

Varian gently shushed him and touched the other’s cheek with his gloved palm.

“There’s no need to dwell on those what ifs. You’re here now and that’s all I could want from you.”

Hugo fondly smiled and as they were about to go in for a kiss, there was a rapid pounding on the door before it busted open with a number of five guards charging in with Stan and Pete at the front.

Varian shouted, “What’s going on here?!”

Stan voiced, “Orders from Eugene, Varian, we are to arrest Hugo at once.” As three of the guards began to surround the blonde.

“On what grounds?! The raven-head demanded.

“Conspiracy and treachery.”

Hugo yelped and grunted in pain as he was manhandled by the knights.

“Don’t hurt him!” Varian pleaded in anguish as Pete held him back.

Hugo was dragged out of the room where he was taken straight to the throne room where Rapunzel was sitting on her throne wearing her crown looking very concerned. Eugene was standing right beside her looking positively livid at the young thief.

Once Hugo was forced onto his knees before the two, Rapunzel spoke up, “Hugo. We have received some distressing information this morning, someone had left a scroll at the gates telling us that you were here as a spy to steal an important item from Quirin and Varian. Is this true?”

Hugo gritted his teeth, he knew this was his punishment from Donella for quitting the way that he did. No point in lying at this juncture.

“Yes. It’s true.” He stated out loud.

“I knew it! I knew you couldn’t be trusted!” Eugene bellowed.

Rapunzel was deeply saddened by this, “Then we have no choice. Hugo, I’m sorry but I must exile you at once.”

Her husband motioned, “You have nothing to be sorry for, sunshine. He, is the one that fooled us all!”

“I don’t believe it!” Varian rushed in, “Rapunzel you can’t do this! Please!” he was on the edge of tears, fretting for his lover’s fate.

Rapunzel bit her lip and looked like she was going to cry herself. That horrible snowy night was still lingering in the back of her head; must this be a repeat of her hurting Varian again? She couldn’t help him when he needed her most that first time and now must she send away the one person that made her little brother happy? But how much of that was real? Did Hugo even love Varian or was that all part of his ruse?

Eugene saw the conflict on her face and took over for her sake.

“Kid, I’m sorry, but he lied to you, he lied to all of us!”

“No! I don’t believe it! There has to be more to the story! Hugo, tell them!” he begged to his boyfriend.

But Hugo could only hang his head in shame and uttered softly, “I’m sorry bluebird… but he’s right, I’ve been lying to you this whole time. I was just using you to get what I needed.”

Varian gasped under his breath, going still and with tears in his eyes he ran out of the throne room. Rapunzel and Eugene desperately wanted to go after him but they had to finish this sentencing first.

Eugene pointed angrily, “Take him to the borders of Corona and make sure he can’t come back.”

The guards heeded the command and dragged Hugo off the floor, taking him straight out of the castle.

That night, Varian left the castle by himself after having locked himself in his room for the rest of day. Eugene and Rapunzel tried to talk to him through the door but he stayed silent and now with it being late in the evening, he went for the kingdom’s borders and into the surrounding forest and started calling out for someone he deeply cared for.

“Hugo! Where are you?!” he kept on calling through the firefly lit clearing, giving him the only source of light he had in the woods.

As he kept searching, he thought back to the moment that Hugo came clean to him about the real reason he was here…

They were just about to go to bed when Hugo took a deep breath and spoke up, “Varian, we need to talk about something…”

The alchemist started to worry that Hugo wanted to break up with him but once Hugo started to explain himself, that fear was completely unfounded instead, Varian was now concerned about all this new information he was given about his mother’s past and that Hugo had to play a role in stealing her journal. He can’t lie and say he wasn’t upset by this but he at least understood the circumstances even though it was scummy that Hugo was hiding the fact that the fire was planned and that he was the bandit that used sleep powder on him though in hindsight it’s pretty obvious now.

Hugo sighed, “I told you I wasn’t a hero.”

Varian sighed in turn, “I’ll give you that. Thanks for trying to warn me.” Crossing his arms.

They sat in silence till Varian added, “I’m not… thrilled with this revelation but… I am happy you told me this and seeing how you gave me a second glance when I told you about my past, then it’s only fair I do the same for you.”

Hugo was stunned before he let out a disbelieving chuckle, “This place is way too forgiving on its criminals.”

“Not all of them, just the ones that had an actual change of heart…” Varian slightly smiled and nudged the blonde’s shoulder, before landing his head on it.

Hugo wrapped his arms around him, “You are far too good for me, bluebird…”

His calls were finally answered when Hugo jumped out of the tree and the two lovers immediately ran for each other, hugging.

“Did they hurt you? I saw how rough they were being toward you.” Varian fretted over his boyfriend.

“Pfft, hardly a scratch, bluebird. Did they buy it?”

“Of course!” he grabbed Hugo’s chin down, “You’re not the only one with acting chops, darling…” he husked darkly.

Hugo’s cheeks tainted pink while making a goofy smile, so that’s what villain Varian was like, good to know.

“Gods I want to put a ring on that.” He accidently said out loud.

Both of them froze upon realizing what was just said, and Varian uttered in disbelief, “Do… do you mean that?”

“I… Aw, fuck…” he smacked his face, moving his hand up and pushing back his hair, inhaling deeply before outright saying, “Yes. Yes, I can see us having a life together and it’s all stupid Rider’s fault for putting the idea in my head that I do want to stay here and settle down with the person I love.” He said that final part with conviction.

Varian was utterly shocked as his stomach began fluttering around with so much emotional butterflies.

“I even told Donella as much when I handed in my resignation, so I guess it was going to come out eventually…” he sighed.

Varian gently caressed his lover’s face, and went in for a kiss, confessing, “I want that.”

Hugo’s eyes widen, “Really?”

“Yes. All of it. I want to work on late night projects with you, sleep in the same bed together, have meals together, just being by your side through anything that comes our way. Growing old together and maybe have a family to raise.”

“Bluebird…” Hugo was in awe.

“Maybe I’m going too fast here but ever since we first met, I am ready to have that special someone in my life that I know makes me so happy to be with. And that is you, Hugo, I don’t want anyone else.”

Hugo was close to tears when hearing those beautiful words and cusped his beloved’s face.

“Me too… there’s no one I want but you… I love you.”

Varian made a tearful joyful smile, “I love you too.” As they went in for a slow and deep kiss.