In Service of the King - Chapter 5
Cover art by @jackyjango. Gorgeous isn’t it?
Story by @pinkoptics and @cherikyassss
Chapter 5 Preview
Erik took both of Charles' forearms in his hands and looked critically at the metal bands wrapped around his forearms. The sleeves of the tunic were just short enough to display them. The cuffs slowly warmed, a sure indication that Erik's power was at work, but did not tighten. Instead, the geometric pattern that had adorned them for weeks transformed, metal sliding and remolding as though it were as fluid as liquid, until the bands complimented Marie's hand embroidery. Charles could not help but be impressed, both by the precise control with which Erik wielded his power and the artistry of his work- it was not an exact copy of Marie's pattern, but they worked together seamlessly. Had Erik not been born to royal life he could have easily ingratiated himself into it, creating metalwork that only royalty could have afforded. "My King... they are beautiful." "As are you." Charles flushed, predictably, and immediately tried to steer the conversation away from himself. "I would like... someday... to see more of what your powers afford you. They are a thing of legend, but legend and truth rarely meet. I feel that you, well, you may be the exception." Charles was not sure where those words had come from, but they were no less true for it. Mutation fascinated him in all of it's forms. Erik took both of Charles' hands in his and raised them to his mouth, pressing a kiss into each one in turn. "Are you asking me to show off, Charles? In that case, I accept." Erik's grin was playful. It was an expression Charles only ever saw when they were alone- sometimes when they were in bed but increasingly when they were not. He briefly wondered who else, if anyone, ever saw this side of the King. The expression fell away and was replaced by the stern countenance Erik always presented to the public. He let go of Charles' hands. "I shall enter first, and you shall follow a few paces behind."
To the banquet on Ao3!
