#king!liam

[teddybearliamxx]

King Liam lockscreens 😉🔱 Please don't steal and rb if u saved 😊

[directionerplusgleek]

Your Every Desire

Life doesn’t end after you reach you ‘happily ever after’. Life keeps going, changing, growing. As Niall is about to discover.

People really wanted a second part to Save You From Your Slavery, so here it is :)

Niall could feel the stares on him as he stood in court beside Liam on his throne. He hated the way people looked at him, their contempt and disgust.

"Your majesty, I come bearing news from Queen Sophia."

"Lord Peter Fay," Liam smiled. "How goes my beloved friend the Queen?"

"After the successful battle against King Benjamin, my queen has been left be," Lord Peter replied cheerfully. "She has a request, Majesty, in order to thank you for your assistance."

"I see. And what is this request?" Liam asked curiously.

Glancing around the court, Lord Peter sighed, "My queen has asked that there be no others present while I propose this to you, Majesty."

Liam waved his hand to dismiss the occupants of the room, then returned his attention to Lord Peter. "What of this request?"

But Lord Peter was biting his lip, his eyes on Niall, who was still standing by Liam's side. "Your majesty, my queen insisted this be for your ears only."

"I will only tell him later, Lord Peter, he may listen," Liam chuckled, waving his hand.

"Majesty… please." Lord Peter begged him with his eyes. "Tell him later if you will, but I swore to my queen there would not be another sole present when I spoke to you."

Liam sighed, reaching out to grasp Niall's hand and pressing a light kiss to his knuckles. "Wait for me in my chambers, my dear," he murmured.

"Yes, your majesty," Niall replied quietly, bowing ever so slightly before leaving the room.

"Thank you, Majesty," Lord Peter smiled wholeheartedly.

"This had better be worth upsetting my darling for," Liam told the lord with an edge of irritation in his voice.

Lord Peter bowed. "Of course, your majesty." He cleared his throat and squared his shoulders. "Majesty, I bring to you a proposal from my queen. She wishes that, in repayment for your generosity, you would accept her gift of marrying her daughter, the Princess Gwendolyn."

Sitting up straighter, Liam asked, "She wishes for me to marry her daughter?"

"Indeed, your majesty, as a token of our gratitude."

Liam narrowed his eyes a little. "For what reason would I wish to marry Princess Gwendolyn?"

Opening his mouth to speak, Lord Peter promptly closed it again and rethought his reply. "Majesty," he began carefully, "this wedding would be beneficial to both you and my queen."

"How so?" Liam asked, eyebrow arched.

"My queen will feel safe in the knowledge that her only daughter will be in the safe and gentle hands of her childhood friend," Lord Peter nodded.

"And in what way does this arrangement benefit myself?" Liam pressed.

A slightly pained look crossed Lord Peter's face. "Majesty, people are beginning to talk," he sighed eventually. "The looks passed around your court are but butterflies whispers compared to what is being said about you in the city. Your… I don't even know what he is, Majesty, but that boy you insist on keeping in your company-"

"Who I choose to keep in my company is not of Queen Sophia's concern," Liam interrupted.

"With respect, Majesty, my queen is very concerned. She fears for your reputation, as both a king and a man."

Liam stood from his throne, Lord Peter taking a few fearful steps backwards. "Return to your queen, Lord Peter," Liam instructed, walking towards him threateningly, "and tell her I do not wish to marry her daughter. Tell her I shall do what I please, with whomever I choose. And while her concern is almost flattering, it is unnecessary, as I have the rulings of my city under control. Is that clear?"

"Yes, your majesty," Lord Peter nodded frantically.

"Leave."

Turning on his heel, Lord Peter hurried from the room.

"Would there be-?" one of the guards began.

"Nothing else," Liam snapped. "I shall retire to my chambers. No one is to be let in to see me." He walked purposefully from the throne room and to his chambers, throwing the doors closed behind him.

Niall jumped in surprise as the doors slammed closed. "Liam?" he asked worriedly from his place on the edge of the bed. He shut his mouth when Liam held a hand up for silence. Watching as the king sat his crown on his dresser and dropped his cape to the floor, he shifted a little uncomfortably.

Staring at himself in the mirror, Liam asked, "Why is it everyone's business with whom I share my bed?"

"Because you are the king?" Niall more asked than answered, voice soft and nervous.

"That is no reason," Liam snapped, pacing back and forth crossly. "The king should surely have a private life like any other citizen."

"There would be nothing for the streets to talk about if it were not for idle gossip of kings and queens," Niall pointed out, still cautious.

"But it is not idle! Lord Peter dared say my reputation was at stake!"

"Is…" Niall swallowed hard, staring down at his hands. "Is my being here a threat to your reputation?" he asked softly.

Liam suddenly stopped pacing, his entire focus turning to Niall. "No. Anyone who is judging my worth by who I share my time with deserves nothing less than expulsion from this city. Especially if they believe you becoming a part of my life is detrimental."

Twisting his fingers together, Niall asked quietly, "Do you not believe that to be a little harsh, Majesty?"

"Don't call me 'Majesty', Niall," Liam sighed, rubbing his hands down his face. "Of all the people in this world, you should be using my first name."

"You would like me start calling you 'Your'?"

Turning to see the tiny smile on Niall's lips, Liam had to chuckle. "My name is not 'Your Majesty', Niall."

"I apologise," Niall nodded. "I'll stick with 'Majesty', Majesty."

Liam gave the blonde a look, earning a grin in return. "You, young man, are being cheeky," he stated, sitting beside Niall on the bed.

"Well, there must be some perks to sharing the king's bed," Niall shrugged.

"Other than sharing my bed at all?" Liam asked, mocking a look of scandal. "What more could a boy possibly want?"

"I understand this may shock you, Majesty, but there is more in this world for a boy to desire than just sex."

"You lie," Liam accused, grasping Niall's hips and lifting him into his lap. "What more could you wish for?" he asked, voice suddenly softer, lips brushing against Niall's cheek. "Tell me."

Niall closed his eyes and sighed. "So many things."

"What things?" Liam frowned.

Shaking his head, Niall gave the king a smile. "Don't worry yourself, Majesty," he whispered, capturing Liam's lips in a kiss. "You worry over a great many things you ought not to spare a single thought to." He slipped one hand into Liam's pants, stroking him gently with his fingertips.

Liam's eyes fell closed and mouth opened a little. "You ought not to change the subject when your king has asked you que-estion." Liam jolted as Niall's fingers toyed lightly with his balls, a small moan escaping.

Once he felt he had worked the king up enough, Niall wrapped his hand around his cock and starting tugging. He grinned when Liam grabbed his shoulders, even more so when the king's hips started rocking towards his hand.

"N-Niall…" Liam's hands moved from Niall's shoulders to his face, kissing him messily as the blonde's hand sped up. "Yes… yes…" Biting into Niall's lower lip, Liam came in his pants with a groan and shudder. "Oh my god," he breathed out.

"There," Niall whispered, lightly bumping his nose against Liam's. "Nothing to worry about."

Shaking his head, Liam captured Niall's lips in a long kiss. "And Queen Sophia thinks you are detrimental to my rule," he mumbled into Niall's mouth, lying the blonde back on the back and kissing him deeper.

"She does?" Niall gasped around kisses.

"Mm… wants me to marry her daughter," Liam snickered with long, lazy presses of his lips to Niall's.

"She what?" Niall pulled back from Liam's mouth, staring up at him in shock. "She… she-"

"I won't," Liam sighed before Niall could work himself up too much. "Not even the concerns of my childhood friend will force me to leave you. Or have you leave me." He moved them so their heads were on the pillows, facing one another as Liam's fingers stroked Niall's cheek. "What else do you desire, Niall?" he asked.

Niall sighed and closed his eyes. "I thought we had moved past this."

"No, my darling, I want to know. Let me know how I can make you happy," Liam insisted.

"You already make me happy," Niall smiled.

"I wish to make you even happier." Tracing the curve of Niall's lips with his fingers, Liam told him, "I wish for you to have all you desire. For you to be eternally happy here."

Pressing a kiss to the fingers at his lips, Niall murmured, "You cannot give me all I desire, Liam."

"I can try."

Niall had to giggle at that. "I can tell you, but I do not expect these things. Some are too far from reach to even consider viable." Settling so he was facing the ceiling, Niall began. "I want a family. A husband, children… people I can call my own through love and care. I so desperately want children. I want to watch and help them grow and learn, to be there for their first steps and first words. I want to hold them and know I'm one of the two most important people in their lives. I want to feel needed and loved by someone I helped navigate this world and its ways. I want…" Niall glanced to Liam, who was watching him silently, and grabbed his hand. "I want to marry you," he whispered. "I want to feel like I belong somewhere, like I belong to someone who hasn't bought me for work." Gazing up at the ceiling again, Niall sighed heavily. "But above all, I want to see my father again. My Daid… And my brother. I want my family here with me, for me to confide in and help settle my feet back on the ground."

There was a long silence between the two. "These are things you feel most passionate about," Liam murmured, bringing their linked hands to his lips and kissing Niall's fingers. "And I fear I cannot give you all you desire."

With a rueful smile, Niall shrugged, "I did tell you."

"Indeed you did." Kissing Niall's forehead, Liam murmured, "Close your eyes, my darling. Dream of those things you desire most. I shall be here when you wake."

 xXx

Niall went for his regular walk around the city with Harry at his back. Liam had insisted the captain go with him for reasons of safety, which Niall had found mildly flattering but unnecessary. Either way, Harry had followed him out, so Niall was stuck with him.

"That's him," he heard someone whisper as he passed. "The king's new slave."

Pretending to not have heard the voice, Niall continued. He heard more voices, though.

"Is he the one?"

"He's pretty skinny."

"Cute face."

"He's the king's sex slave, isn't he?"

Niall stumbled, Harry grabbing his arm quickly. "Careful," Harry half-smiled, helping Niall to steady himself on his feet.

"The king's getting married, isn't he?"

"What's he want a sex slave for?"

"Sex. He'll toss him once he's married."

"I think I should like to return to the castle," Niall whispered to the captain.

"As you wish," Harry nodded.

Before they could take more than three steps, a messenger ran up to them. "You have been summoned to the throne room by the king."

Niall nodded his head. "Thank you. I'll be there shortly."

With a curt nod, the messenger hurried off.

 xXx

There was something uncomfortable sitting in Niall's gut. He couldn't work out what it was, but something just didn't feel right. He entered the throne room as he had been requested to do, standing before the steps to the throne and bowing politely. "Your majesty." He noticed an unfamiliar woman sitting beside Liam, feeling his gut twist horribly.

"Niall," Liam spoke to draw his attention, a soft smile on his face. "I would like to introduce you to Queen Sophia of Localis." He gestured to the woman beside him.

"Your majesty," Niall acknowledged, bowing to the queen.

"It is lovely to meet you at last, Niall," Queen Sophia smiled. "I have heard much of you."

"And I of you, Majesty."

Liam held out his hand to Niall, who slowly ascended the steps to accept it. Kissing the back of Niall's hand, Liam rose to his feet. "That shall be all," he announced to his court, who all left the room. "How was your walk?" Liam asked Niall, holding the blonde's hand in both his own.

"It could have been better, Majesty," Niall admitted quietly.

"How so?" Liam frowned.

"I heard things… a few whispers, nothing more… but they weren't particularly nice."

Squeezing Niall's hand, Liam turned to the queen beside him. "As I said, Niall, this is Queen Sophia; my dear friend for many years."

The queen rolled her eyes. "For heaven's sake, Liam, you've dismissed your court," she laughed. "You would speak freely with your boy, and I have seen you pick your nose and flick the contents at your father while he was addressing the court. There's no need for the formalities." Turning her attention to Niall, she told him, "Just call me Sophia. Or Soph; Liam does."

"I'll try, M- Sophia."

Sophia grinned at him. "Maybe try a little harder," she chuckled.

Seeming satisfied with the conversation, Liam explained to Niall, "I have asked Soph to come and meet you. She had some doubts of my intentions with you." He send the queen a look. "But I must travel for a few days, and I would feel much safer if you were to say in Localis with Sophia while I'm gone."

Niall's eyes widened. "B-but… can't Harry…?"

"Harry will be busy keeping the castle functioning while I'm gone," Liam sighed, sending Niall an apologetic look. "But I know Soph will look after you. She owes me a favour."

"You know what I offered in return," Sophia pointed out, sending Liam a look of her own. "But I would be delighted to take Niall into my care while you're gone."

"But…" Niall chewed his lip anxiously.

"Soph heads home tomorrow, you can leave with her then," Liam decided with a grin. "The sooner I can make my trip, the better."

Sophia nodded. "Now, I'm going to rest. I'll see you both at dinner, no doubt." With a wave, the queen left the throne room.

Yet to move, Niall opened and closed his mouth in shock. "B-but…" Tears rushed to fill his eyes.

"I need to know you're safe while I'm gone, my darling," Liam murmured, kissing Niall's forehead.

"Why can I not come with you?" Niall whimpered, lower lip trembling.

Liam seemed to realise just how distressed Niall was. "Oh… no, my darling, don't cry…" He wrapped the blonde up in his arms. "Ssh, Niall," he cooed when Niall hiccupped. "I wish to keep you safe, my darling. I cannot keep you safe if you come with me."

"Where are you going?" Niall asked, fisting his hands in Liam's shirt. "Will you be safe?"

"Of course, my darling," Liam smiled, kissing the top of Niall's head and rubbing his back soothingly. "I'll be gone just a few days."

"But where?" Niall sniffled.

"Many miles away," Liam replied. "I trust you have never ridden horseback."

"No," Niall mumbled.

"Then it will not be safe for you, my darling," Liam murmured, running his fingers through Niall's hair.

Niall huffed and buried his face in Liam's neck. "Why must I stay with Sophia?"

"Because I know she will care for you."

Swallowing hard, Niall simply burrowed into Liam's chest more.

 xXx

There was an aching feeling in Niall's heart as he watched Liam from the window of Sophia's carriage. He wanted to yell for the driver to stop so he could run back to Liam's side and never leave, but kept his mouth shut. When Liam was out of view, Niall turned and stared down at his hands in his lap.

"What's wrong, my dear?" Sophia asked kindly.

"He's sending me away," Niall choked out. "He's bored with me so he's sending me off." Sniffing hard, he met Sophia's eyes with his watering ones. "How much did I cost you? Or is this how you're repaying him for helping you, by taking me off his hands?"

"No… Niall, what on earth are you talking about?" Sophia asked. She moved carefully so she was sitting beside Niall rather than opposite him.

"Ever since I was first sold as a slave, I've been sold on and on because no one wanted me. And that's all I am to Liam, I'm a slave." Hiccupping as tears dripped down his cheeks, he whimpered, "I was just his sex slave."

Sophia looked horrified. "Niall, what…? No, Niall, that's definitely not what you are to him."

"But that's what everyone says," Niall sobbed, covering his face as he cried into his hands.

"No." Taking one of Niall's tear-damp hands, Sophia told him, "I've known Liam for a long time, and let me tell you, that man is not using you as a slave, for sex or otherwise."

"Then why do people say it?" Niall whispered.

"People thrive on gossip." Making Niall meet her eyes, Sophia stated, "He is going away. Yes, he has left you behind, and yes, he's left you with the woman who wanted him to marry her daughter. But he is coming back for you, Niall. He's leaving for you in the first place."

Wiping his eyes meekly, Niall asked, "Where's he going?"

Sophia gave him a smile that was half-friendly, half-smirk. "I have been sworn to secrecy."

"Why?"

Laughing, Sophia assured him, "I cannot tell you why, that would defeat the purpose, but he is returning for you. I believe you will be grateful for this trip when you discover its purpose."

Niall accepted the handkerchief the queen offered him and wiped his face and nose. "Alright."

 xXx

"How has Localis life been treating you?"

Niall jumped a little at the suddenness of the voice, turning to see Lord Peter sit on the garden bench beside him. "Well, I suppose," he nodded.

"You suppose?" Lord Peter asked, raising an eyebrow.

"The people treat me well enough, and the food is lovely. But I miss Paradime, and I am having difficulty sleeping."

Lord Peter nodded in understanding. "May I speak freely?"

With a confused look, Niall nodded his head.

"I take it you are sleeping poorly due to the lack of King Liam beside you." Lord Peter smiled slightly when Niall blushed. "It is no secret that you are the boy who has been sharing the bed of the most powerful king in the land. But it is not for the power that you do this, is it?"

"Of course not," Niall whispered. "I… I love him," he admitted quietly. "I cannot sleep because I miss the feel of his arms around me at night. I need the steady feel of his breathing. But I haven't those things here."

"Indeed you do not."

Staring out across the gardens, Niall sighed heavily. "I wish he would return."

A messenger suddenly stumbled to a stop before them. "Niall, sir, I have been sent to inform you of the impending arrival of King Liam of Paradime."

Niall's eyes widened and he jumped to his feet, running from the gardens. He hurried through the hallways of the castle, stopping at the front door to see Liam jumping down from his horse in the courtyard. "Liam!" Niall ran down to him and flung his arms around Liam before realising that had been incredibly inappropriate. He was just about to pull away hurriedly when Liam hugged him tightly.

"Hello, my darling," Liam chuckled, kissing the top of Niall's head. "Pleased to see me?"

"Eternally," Niall breathed out.

Laughing lightly, Liam pulled away from the embrace. "Collect your things, my darling, we are leaving as soon as possible."

Niall nodded his head and hurried off up the steps to the castle, blushing when Sophia smirked at his eagerness. He returned to Liam quickly with his things shoved haphazardly into his satchel.

"Come on, then," Liam chuckled, bringing Niall over to his horse.

Glancing up at Liam, Niall whispered, "I'm riding a horse…?"

"Well, you're not walking," Liam laughed. He helped Niall up onto the horse's back, then pulled himself up to sit behind him. "I'll hold you up, don't worry." Looking to Sophia, Liam called out, "I apologise for the brevity of my visit. I shall endeavour to make the next a little more sociable."

"Not at all," Sophia smiled, waving them off.

Niall had no idea where to put his hands to steady himself, nearly falling from his place. He yelped, but Liam caught him before he could fall anywhere.

"Hold my hands," Liam murmured in his ear as they headed through the castle gates.

"But the reins…?"

Kissing the side of Niall's head, Liam moved the blonde's hands so that Niall held the reins with his own hands over the top. "There."

Niall pressed back against Liam in terror. "Liam, this is really scary…"

Liam planted a small kiss behind Niall's ear, whispering, "It's alright, my darling. I have you."

It was a slow ride back to Paradime, and Niall blew out a sigh of relief as his feet touched the solid comfort of the ground. He watched as Liam gave the instructions of feeding and watering his horse, then smiled as the king wrapped his arm around his waist. Niall leaned into Liam's side as they headed into the castle.

"I have a surprise for you, my darling," Liam murmured, squeezing Niall's hip fondly.

Niall looked up at the king. "Really?"

"You don't think I would travel for days away from you without a purpose, do you?" Liam chuckled.

"I assumed there was purpose, but I did not know…" Niall's sentence trailed off as they entered the throne room. His mouth opened in shock at the sight of two men standing in the middle of the room. "Daidí?" he whispered.

"Thank the heavens," breathed out the elder of the two men. "Niall."

"Daid!" Niall ran from Liam's side to fling his arms around his father.

"Niall," the other man half-laughed, tears in his eyes.

Niall reached for the other man and wrapped one arm around his neck. "Greg…"

Liam watched on with a smile, dismissing his guards. "I trust my surprise is pleasing?"

The watery smile Niall sent him filled Liam's heart. "Yes, Majesty, most certainly."

"When did you start talking like that?" Niall's father asked with a slight laugh, ruffling the blonde's hair.

"When it became necessary," Niall half-laughed, burrowing his face into his father's shoulder.

"Bobby," Liam spoke up, "may I have a word?"

"Of course, Majesty." Bobby handed Niall's hugs over to Greg so Liam could walk them a little ways away.

Looking up at his brother, Niall sniffled, "It's been so long."

"It has," Greg agreed with a small sigh. His mouth turning upwards, he chuckled, "But you've done well for yourself."

A blush covered Niall's cheeks. "You would not have said the same of me three months ago."

Greg's smile fell a little. "I know." Running a hand through Niall's hair, he whispered, "He changed his mind. As soon as that man took you away, Daid changed his mind and demanded you be brought back." He shook his head slowly. "But it was too late."

"It's done," Niall dismissed. "It can't be changed. And as you said, I am doing rather well for myself."

"That you are," Greg chuckled, pulling Niall in to his side. "I'm curious about this relationship between you and the king," he hummed.

"There is not much to explain," Niall shrugged. "He saw me being beaten by my last master and took me in, offered me food and water, allowed me to take a bath…"

Smirking, Greg noted, "He had ulterior motives."

"I suppose he did," Niall smiled slightly. "Not that I mind."

"But I'm curious… is what I've heard from the guards true?" Greg asked.

"What have you heard?"

"That you… you share the king's bed. That there may have been more than a few kisses stolen…"

Niall blushed, staring down at his feet. "There may have been more than kisses involved," he admitted.

"So… you…" Greg paused for a moment, attempting to word his question politely before giving up and whispering, "You have had sex with the King of Paradime?"

Smiling down at the floor, Niall murmured, "I guess I have." He glanced to his brother, who looked a mixture of awed and confused.

"I never realised you preferred the company of men," Greg commented finally.

"I was not old enough when I last saw you to have any understanding myself as to my preferences," Niall pointed out. He looked over his brother's face. "You've grown up."

"As have you," Greg laughed, squeezing Niall's side playfully. "Last I saw you, you were a tiny, fragile child with no sense of the world."

Grinning, Niall giggled, "And now I talk and dine and sleep with the most powerful king in the land."

"Lucky bastard," Greg sighed. "Actually, you can keep the sleeping with him."

Niall laughed loudly at that, earning a fond smile from both the king and his father as they approached the two brothers. He moved from his brother's side to wrap his arms around Liam's neck and bury his face in his shoulder. "Thank you," he whispered.

"Anything for you," Liam murmured, stroking the back of Niall's head.

"I would use those words with caution, Majesty," Niall giggled. "Now I see what you are capable of…" He glanced over his shoulder to gaze at his family.

"You may stay here in the castle, if you so wish," Liam told Bobby and Greg. "There are plenty of rooms."

With a slight bow, Bobby replied, "That is very gracious of you, Majesty." With a short glance to Greg, he nodded, "We would be glad to accept."

Liam had never seen Niall smile so brightly.

 xXx

"Niall, the king wishes you to be in attendance at the court."

Niall sighed and closed his book, then slid off the window sill. "About my expulsion, no doubt," he mumbled. Ignoring the look of confusion the messenger sent him, Niall headed off towards the throne room. "I've hardly seen him for days, and now he wants me at court," he muttered to himself. "He's getting rid of me…" Taking a deep breath to quell the surge of emotion he felt, Niall pushed open the doors to the throne room.

The court was silent as Niall walked towards the steps. Attention turned to Liam once Niall had stopped and bowed slightly.

"Niall." Once he had Niall's eye contact, Liam beckoned him up the steps with a hand. He took Niall's hands in both of his own when the blonde was close enough, then stood from his throne and moved so that the court could see their profiles. "Niall, you have resided in the castle of Paradime for many months now. You have done so at my request, but you have become far more than a mere resident of this palace. You are my confidant, my advisor, and my best friend."

Although flattered, Niall was only becoming more confused as to his summoning. He simply nodded, unsure how to answer.

"I am aware that certain rumours have been passed about the court surrounding the nature of our relationship. It is my hope that those rumours will find rest when I do what I am about to, to prove what our relationship is."

Niall swallowed hard. 'This is it,' he thought. 'This is when he tosses me from his life forever.'

"Niall Horan," Liam began, squeezing Niall's hands. With a slight smile, he lowered down onto one knee, watching the blonde's eyes pop wide open. "Would you promise yourself to me forever and accept my proposal when I ask you this; will you marry me?"

Mouth hanging open in shock, Niall simply stared at the king. "Y-you… Really?" he whispered.

"Really," Liam smiled with a nod.

"I-I…" Niall couldn't hold the tears that had built up earlier. "Of course I will," he sniffled.

Liam rose from the floor and swept Niall up into a kiss. "I was beginning to fear you would say no," he whispered with a small laugh.

"Would I be allowed to say no to the King of Paradime?" Niall giggled, lightly bumping his nose against Liam's.

"Of course," Liam replied as though it were obvious. "Otherwise I would not have asked."

"I know," Niall whispered, wrapping his arms around Liam's neck and burying his face in his shoulder. It registered to him that the court was applauding, but he ignored them in favour of losing himself in Liam's hug.

Lifting his head, Liam announced, "That will be all," effectively dismissing his court. When the room was finally empty save the two of them, he pressed a kiss to Niall's cheek. "I do believe that we have a wedding to plan."

And Niall smiled so wide his face hurt.

 xXx

Liam's eyes hadn't left Niall throughout their entire wedding ceremony, and he barely looked away for a moment during the rest of the day's celebrations. The blonde was practically glowing, and hadn't stopped smiling all day.

During the wedding feast, Sophia, who was sat beside Liam, leaned over and whispered, "People are going to assume you want to screw him if you don't stop staring at him."

"I do, is that a crime?" Liam whispered back with a smirk. "He's my husband, I can screw him if I want to."

Sophia laughed, and Liam could see her hand move to jab him in the ribs, but she stopped herself. "I do so detest the requirement of us to be civil," she muttered in a mockingly posh voice.

"As do I," Liam replied in the same tone, making them both smother sniggers.

"Liam."

The light tugging on Liam's sleeve made him turn to face his newly-wedded husband. "Yes, my love?" he murmured, kissing Niall's nose.

With a small giggle, Niall lightly bumped his nose against Liam's and explained, "Me and Daid were talking… See, we weren't sure, because you're the king, so… what does that make me?"

Liam looked thoughtful for a moment. "I hadn't considered that… because, by gender, you would be a king. But by tradition, as you married a king, you would be a queen."

"That was our dilemma," Niall nodded.

Humming, Liam tapped Sophia's shoulder. "Soph, what do you think?"

"A queen is being asked her opinion by a king?" Sophia asked, feigning shock.

"Since I am king, what now is my husband?" Liam asked, ignoring her comment.

Sophia opened her mouth to answer, then closed it again. "Oh…" She frowned. "Well, my dears, I'm not sure. Gender says king, tradition says queen. But if I, as a queen, married a woman, she would be a queen as well, no? Surely one would not call her a king."

"No, Sophia, you forget that a man marrying a queen becomes a prince," Liam pointed out. "So would not a woman marrying a queen become a princess?"

"Then should a man marrying a king also become a prince?" Sophia asked.

Niall scrunched his face up in confusion. "But I didn't marry a queen, so that rule should not apply."

"But maybe he is a queen…" Sophia raised her eyebrows suggestively. "Behind closed doors…"

"No," Niall replied honestly, shaking his head.

"If anyone, it would be you doing that," Liam murmured in Niall's ear, making him blush.

Unfortunately, Sophia overheard. "That settles it, then. Niall, you're a queen."

Niall's jaw dropped. "That can't be the way we decide this!" he hissed.

"Too late," Sophia shrugged. "I'm glad you're a queen, though, there's too many kings around."

Looking to Liam, Niall begged him with his eyes. "Please, that cannot be the way it is decided."

Taking Niall's hand, Liam asked, "Would you have an issue with being my queen?"

"No, but… I would just prefer the decision not be made through an inappropriate joke," Niall mumbled.

Liam attempted to push the corner of Niall's mouth upwards with his thumb. "Where has my smile gone?" he whispered, nuzzling Niall's cheek.

"It needs reassurance that my title is not the result of a joke," Niall replied.

"I feel that this decision should be made with significantly less wine," Liam nodded. Lips brushing against Niall's ear, he added quietly, "Although, you were my princess the night before last."

Niall's face flushed pink. "I was," he murmured. "I should like to be your queen," he admitted softly. "So long as the general public do not learn the reason why."

"We shall simply tell them that, following tradition, you are the queen of the kingdom. No one need know if I choose to dress you up in a gown and call you my princess," Liam whispered.

"Liam," Niall giggled, covering his face. He peeked out from behind his hands and pressed a kiss to Liam's cheek. "I love you," he whispered.

"I love you, too, my queen," Liam grinned back.

 xXx

"Liam?" Niall piped up softly as the two lay naked on their backs in their bed, fingers clasped between their shoulders.

"Yes, my dear?" Liam hummed.

"If you're trying to fulfil my deepest desires… there is something still missing. Something we cannot have," Niall pointed out, staring up at the ceiling.

Liam turned his head and brought their linked hands up to kiss Niall's fingers. "Not in the way a man and woman can, no. But we can in another way."

Shaking his head, Niall asked, "How?"

"You would be surprised… no, you would be horrified by the number of children, infants, who are abandoned by the gates of Paradime. Simply left for someone to save, or to die. Whichever comes first."

Niall looked to Liam with a shocked sadness in his eyes. "That's awful…"

"I knew you would think so," Liam nodded. "That is why I had hoped you would be keen to save one of those abandoned children with me." He rolled onto his side and held Niall's face between his hands. "What better way for us to have a family? Saving little lost souls and caring for them as our own. They will not be our flesh and blood, but we shall raise them and they will rely on us, look up to us."

"Liam…" Niall looked close to tears, wrapping his arms around Liam's middle and burying his face in the brunette's chest. "I love you," he whispered. "That would be perfect."

"I shall send Harry out to check tomorrow," Liam smiled, kissing the top of Niall's head.

"Thank you." Niall snuggled close, wondering what he had done to deserve such a wonderful husband. "Thank you."

[directionerplusgleek]

Save You From Your Slavery

Prompt: Liam is a powerful king and Niall is just a slave, but when Liam visits the village he sees Niall get hit for doing something wrong ... so he takes niall back to the castle with him and they both fall in love

Liam sighed as he watched more peasants being dragging before him in his throne room. They were crying and begging, the guards holding them gripping their arms relentlessly.

"For what have you been brought to me?" Liam asked the peasants.

"Sir, they-"

"I was asking them," Liam interrupted the guard, who looked down at the floor in shame. "What are your names?" he asked the two prisoners.

"Ingrid, your majesty," the woman spoke up, her voice trembling. "And this is my husband, Lawrence."

"For what have you been brought here?"

Ingrid's eyes dropped. "For stealing, your majesty."

"What did you steal?" Liam asked.

"Two loaves of bread and three apples, your majesty."

Liam sighed and looked to his guards. "Who summoned you for their arrest?"

"Richard the Merchant, your majesty," one of the guards answered obediently.

"Richard's prices are disgustingly high," Liam scoffed. "Let these two go and bring me Richard." As the guards were about to leave, Liam changed his mind. "Wait. Take me to Richard later. A little public shame is good for the morale of a community living with someone so lowly."

"Thank you, Majesty," Ingrid whispered wholeheartedly, tears shining in her eyes as the guards took her and her husband away.

"Next?" Liam asked the guard at the door.

"A representative from the kingdom of Localis, Majesty," the guard announced as he opened the door to a man in fine clothing.

The man approached the throne, then bowed respectfully. "Your majesty," he spoke up. "I am Lord Peter Fay, here to represent Queen Sophia of Localis."

Liam nodded for the man to continue.

"My queen begs your assistance, your majesty. The armies of King Benjamin are but two days' march from our city. We haven't the resources, nor the men, to defend ourselves, majesty. In exchange for your assistance, my queen offers you anything you desire from our city. To display our true desperation, your majesty, my queen offers even her daughter, who will do whatever she is able-."

"Lord Peter," Liam interrupted with a raised hand. "Enough. There is no need for you to embarrass yourself and stoop to grovelling. I shall assist your queen. Take ten thousand men, and offer my greetings to Queen Sophia."

"Thank you, your majesty." Lord Peter bowed, then hurried off with one of Liam's guards to organise the men.

Once the room was quiet again, Liam's guard announced, "That is all for this day, your majesty."

Liam heaved a sigh and rose to his feet. "Fetch Captain Styles," he ordered. "He and you two will be my escort into the village of Richard the Merchant," he explained, pointing to the guards either side of the doors.

"Yes, Majesty."

 xXx

"Are you sure this is the way to deal with him?"

Liam looked to his old friend and smiled. "Harry, he needs the humiliation. He's been humiliating his whole village with his prices, and then sending thieves up to me."

"I understand that," Harry sighed as they made their way through the streets. "It just seems a bit… extreme."

"I've let him get away with this for too long," Liam told his friend. "Time to deal with him." Liam spotted the stall he was after, approaching it with a call of, "Richard the Merchant!"

The merchant's bald head popped up from behind the stall, his eyes popping open in shock. "Y-your majesty…"

Liam levelled the man with a steady stare. "I have come to recognise that the prices for which you charge your community are unacceptable."

"W-what do you mean, Majesty?" Richard asked with a confused frown.

"The price of your wares is disgraceful. As your king, I command you to lower them, or be gone from these walls by sundown tomorrow." Liam watched the merchant, waiting for an answer.

"Y-yes, Majesty…" Richard gave a pathetic bow. "My apologies, Majesty."

Liam gave a satisfied nod. "I shall expect no more reports of thieves from you, as your wares will be affordable for your community to access without the need for stealing."

"Yes, Majesty."

With another nod, Liam turned on his heel and walked away.

"I must admit," Harry whispered, "that would've taught him a lesson."

"I know," Liam smirked. He jumped a little at a sudden, furious voice.

"Stupid boy!" hollered one of the salesmen, his glare fixed on a small blonde boy. "Why do you never do anything right?!"

The salesman hit his slave hard in the head with one of the many lumps of firewood scattered at their feet, presumably dropped by the boy. The boy collapsed after the blow, fear in his eyes and blood oozing from a gash in his temple.

"Get up!" the salesman demanded. "Get up!" He grabbed the boy by his hair and yanked him to his feet, bringing his fist back.

"Stop!" Liam roared.

The whole area fell into complete silence. The salesman's eyes flicked around until they landed on Liam. "Your majesty…"

"Let him go," Liam enunciated slowly.

The salesman dropped the boy, who whimpered when he hit the ground again.

Looking over his shoulder, Liam ordered his guards, "Take the man. I want him out of my kingdom." Ignoring the man's yells and protests, Liam turned to Harry. "Fetch the boy."

Harry nodded obediently, striding over to the crumpled blonde and helping him to his feet.

"You can't do this!" wailed the salesman as the guards dragged him away.

"I can do whatever I please," Liam replied. "That goes for all of you," he announced, looking slowly around at the observing salespeople. "You do not treat your slaves in such a malicious manner. You may have paid for them, but their mothers did not birth them for you to abuse. Anyone reported to commit such behaviour will be removed from this kingdom, and as such, my protection. I will take no responsibility for the lives of those who will treat others so cruelly." With that, he started back towards the castle.

 xXx

Upon arriving back in the throne room, Liam took his place on his throne. "Captain," he addressed Harry, "leave the boy with me and fetch the court healer."

"Yes, your majesty," Harry nodded, leaving the boy in the middle of the throne room before disappearing through the doors.

Observing the blonde for a moment, Liam beckoned him closer. "You have no need to fear me," he assured him.

The boy limped up to the steps before the throne. He bowed his head in respect. "Majesty," he whispered.

"What's your name?" Liam asked.

"Niall," the boy croaked.

"Come closer, Niall," Liam encouraged.

Niall slowly climbed the steps up to the throne, standing right in front of Liam. "Majesty?"

"You may speak," Liam permitted.

"Thank you for saving me," Niall sniffled, wrapping his arms around his thin body.

Giving Niall a comforting smile, Liam told him, "As your king, it is my duty to ensure your safety."

"You didn't have to bring me here," Niall said quietly. "One of the other salesmen would have taken me."

"I did not want one of the other salesmen to take you." Liam held out his hand, watching as Niall carefully placed his own worn one in his. "You have nothing to fear, now," Liam assured him, holding Niall's hand between both of his own.

A few tears tumbled down Niall's cheeks and he hiccupped. "Thank you."

"How old are you, Niall?" Liam asked.

"S-seventeen," Niall sniffled.

"At what age were you sold as a slave?"

"When I was eight," Niall whispered, "after my mother died."

Squeezing Niall's hand, Liam smiled, "I would think nine years is long enough for one as fragile as you."

Niall nodded his head once with a watery smile.

"Your majesty, the court healer," Harry announced as he opened the doors, leading in a tanned man with dark hair.

"Thank you, Captain," Liam nodded. "Zayn, could you address this boy's wounds?"

"Of course, Majesty." Zayn, the healer, beckoned Niall towards him, leading him away from the king to clean and patch his wounds.

"Well," Harry hummed, standing beside the throne. "That looked… friendly."

"Harry, hush," Liam whispered, giving his friend a warning look. "I do not wish for him to hear us."

Harry rolled his eyes. "You just brought a slave back to the castle, and you were holding his hand. Your intentions are fairly obvious."

"Not to him," Liam replied, watching Zayn tending to the gash on Niall's temple. "He has been extremely grateful that I saved him.

"Of course he is," Harry snickered. "Saved by the King of Paradime? I bet he feels he's the luckiest boy alive."

Liam subtly elbowed his friend in the ribs. "Enough," he hissed.

With another roll of his eyes, Harry stayed silent.

 xXx

After treating Niall to a bath, clean clothes and dinner, Liam took the blonde out into the palace gardens. "How are you feeling?" he asked.

Gazing around himself, Niall breathed out, "Overwhelmed."

"Understandable," Liam smiled.

"It's unbelievable," Niall half-laughed. "Not that I don't appreciate your kindness and generosity, Majesty, because I'll be forever thankful for it, but why would you bring a filthy, useless slave into your castle?"

Liam shrugged one shoulder. "Because I have a weakness for protecting those in need." Smiling to himself, he added, "And a weakness for pretty things."

"But how…?" Niall's eyes widened and he blushed profusely, quickly lowering his eyes to the ground. "Majesty."

"Do you not think you look pretty?" Liam asked curiously. "Even after your bath?"

"Possibly after my bath, Majesty," Niall nearly giggled. "You should have seen the colour of the water when I got out…"

"I can imagine," Liam chuckled.

Watching Liam from the corner of his eye, Niall continued to walk with his head down. "It had been a long time since I last took a bath."

Liam nodded in understanding. "What do you know of Localis?"

Niall looked to the king beside him as they came to a stop at a small lookout. "Only that it is our nearest neighbour and ruled over by Queen Sophia."

"Very good," Liam praised, earning a blush. "That is Localis," he explained, pointing to the city and castle a mere few miles away. "I have sent men there to help Queen Sophia defend Localis from the armies of King Benjamin of Slace. His men should arrive in little more than a day, and will be given quite a surprise by my ten thousand man support."

"Ten thousand men…" Niall whispered in amazement, gazing out at the neighbouring city. "My brother always wished to be a soldier. To be one of the thousands that protected the kingdom."

With the raise of a curious eyebrow, Liam asked, "Your brother?"

Niall nodded his head. "Greg. But he and my father are a long way from here. Across the water."

"I had noticed your accent," Liam commented. "From where do you hail?"

"Ireland." Niall's gaze dropped to the smooth stone railing he had his hand resting on.

Standing a little closer to the blonde, Liam asked gently, "How did you come to be here?"

"I was sold as a slave in Ireland," Niall explained, eyes down and voice soft. "My father needed the money, and Greg was needed to help him work the farm, so he sold me at the local flea market. I was sold between a few masters in Ireland before I was bought by a man wanting to travel the sea. So I was brought to England, where I was sold again and again until I ended up here."

"I always thought slaves were valued," Liam murmured. "Why were you sold on so often?"

"Because I'm so weak," Niall shrugged. "I'm not strong enough to work farms, and I can't carry heavy loads… I wasn't even any use of the boat that brought me over, other than serving food and wine." Gazing sadly out at the horizon, Niall whispered, "That was the only job I was ever any good at."

Liam wrapped his arm around Niall's waist, startling him a little. "You need never worry what work you are good for," Liam whispered, his lips brushing the shell of Niall's ear. "I would like for you to stay with me. You are not required to, but I am offering this to you. Stay with me. Allow me to care for you."

Blinking as his mouth opened in surprise, Niall stammered, "M-Majesty-"

"Ssh…" Liam cooed, stroking Niall's cheek. "My name is Liam."

"I-I know…" Chewing his lip nervously, Niall checked, "Stay with… with you, or just in the castle?"

"With me," Liam clarified, pulling Niall a little closer. "Will you?"

Niall carefully placed his hand on Liam's hip, glancing up at him to check that was okay. "I'd love to stay," he whispered.

With a smile, Liam brought one hand up to hold the back of Niall's head, then leaned closer and kissed him softly on the lips. "Will you still stay with me?" he asked.

"I… I have even more reason to stay," Niall replied, blushing and biting back a smile when Liam beamed at him. "But, will it negatively affect the people's view of you?" he suddenly asked. "A king kissing a slave…"

"You are not a slave," Liam reminded him. "And I will be doing much more than kissing you in future, if you would permit."

"Yes," Niall breathed out, his cheeks darkening.

"And what does it matter how people perceive me? I am their king; they bow to me or leave my protection." Kissing Niall's cheek, Liam murmured, "Would you allow me to bring you to my chambers?"

Tucking his head under Liam's chin, Niall whispered, "Yes, your majesty."

"You may use my name, Niall," Liam reminded him.

Niall pulled back enough to see Liam's face and repeated, "Yes, your majesty."

A small shiver raced down Liam's spine. "Come with me, my darling," he instructed softly, a slightly smirk on his face.

Niall followed his king back into the castle, biting his lip to hide a smile when Liam pulled his chamber doors closed.

[directionerplusgleek]

A New Kingdom

A/N: I'm so sorry, but I got kinda lazy with the smut part AGAIN. I just can't get that scene right. And I apologise for my absence, but I went home a few days ago and I've been catching up with family and friends. This is a little lengthy, so hopefully that makes up for my absence!

Biting his lip, Niall whispered, "There is an expectation of us tonight."

"I know," Liam murmured. He led Niall over to the bed and sat, holding his husband's hands and looking up at him. "Do you wish to fill that expectation?"

"Yes," Niall said quietly, blushing a little. "Though I am a bit nervous."

Tugging Niall closer, Liam assured him, "I will look after you."

"I know," Niall smiled shyly as he let Liam pull him into his lap.

Liam gazed up at Niall, pressing a short kiss to his neck. "Ready?"

"I think so," Niall giggled shyly, allowing Liam to slowly begin unbuttoning his shirt. "I apologise in advance if I am unsure of anything. I have never done this before."

"And neither you should have," Liam nodded with a slightly teasing look as he slid Niall's shirt off his shoulders.

Laughing a bit at Liam's comment, Niall returned the favour of removing the brunette's shirt, taking a moment to appreciate the view. "I have never seen you without a shirt. You have assisted me in changing many times, but never the opposite."

"You assisting me would have defied the purpose of my servitude," Liam pointed out, sliding his hands up Niall's back. He moved his lips to Niall's neck, but the blonde gently pushed him back with a frown.

"You were not a slave," Niall said firmly. "I made sure you were fed and well. I gave you a choice; you were never forced into any act."

Liam smiled and leaned towards Niall's neck again. "I know," he murmured, leaving feathery kisses down his throat. He continued down to Niall's chest, his fingers brushing over his stomach before starting to unfasten the blonde's pants.

"Liam," Niall sighed out, head tipped back and eyes closed. Taking hold of Lima's face with both hands, Niall lifted the brunette's head and kissed him. "We only kissed for the first time this morning," he whispered.

"True," Liam smiled. "A little overdue, though, was it not?"

"Dreadfully," Niall breathed out, pressing his lips to Liam's again. "Terribly, awfully overdue." He wrapped his arms around Liam's neck as the older boy tugged him closer by his hips. A gasp escaped his mouth at the movement, which had their bodies pressed together.

"Was that too soon?" Liam asked gently, rubbing Niall's hipbone with his thumb.

"No, no, I had not been expecting it is all," Niall chuckled breathlessly. Biting his lip, he pressed his hips against Liam's, causing both of them to close their eyes and let out a quick breath.

Bringing a hand up to hold the back of Niall's head, Liam whispered, "Do not be afraid. You have no reason to be shy, love."

Niall began to slowly rock his hips, blushing a little. "I feel awkward…"

"Relax," Liam murmured, gently guiding the blonde in his movement. "You have no need to f- ooh…" he interrupted himself with a soft moan. "That is good," he told Niall breathlessly.

Becoming a bit bolder, Niall started rolling his hips steadily, gripping Liam's hair with one hand and pressing their foreheads together. He made an unintentional little grunt at the effort, which had Liam kissing him hard and gripping his bum. Liam guided the younger boy to move faster, their panting becoming too heavy for them to continue kissing. Burying his face in Liam's neck, Niall let out a little whimper, grinding down on the brunette and holding onto him for dear life.

"Niall…" Liam squeezed his eyes shut and moaned, biting his lip hard. He held Niall tighter and came with a gasp of, "Of my God."

Niall squeaked a little when his orgasm took him, shaking with the force of it and slumping down onto Liam's lap. "Oh wow…" he breathed out.

Pushing Niall back a bit to hold his face in both hands, Liam whispered, "Do you think you could handle more?"

"Definitely," Niall grinned.

  It was only a few years after their marriage that Niall and Liam began to rule the kingdom. The pressure of rule had become too much for the king, who was still slightly begrudging in giving half of the control of his kingdom to Liam, but it was for the best.

"We have so much power now," Niall murmured as he and Liam sat together in their bedroom window. "It is rather frightening."

"We bear that power together," Liam assured him, rubbing Niall's shoulders. "I am here if you need."

Niall gave his husband a smile and nod, leaning his head against the brunette's shoulder. "It is comforting to know I am not alone. I cannot imagine how daunting this would have been for my father; he began his rule with no queen. Even after he married, mother had little say in any matters of ruling the kingdom."

"You did upset him mildly when you insisted I be given equal power to you," Liam noted, kissing Niall's hair.

"He still does not trust you," Niall muttered. "That man is far too set in his ways. It is a miracle that he agreed to abdicate the throne, but he was in no fit position to argue."

"You father has not been in a fit position for anything in a long time, Niall," Liam chuckled, earning a playful elbow in his side.

"Do not mock my father," Niall told his husband, the tone in his voice far too light to be stern. "That is my privilege."

Laughing at the blonde, Liam wrapped his arms around his waist and lowered his lips to his ear. "Just do not mock him in public."

"I may do as I please; he has no power over me anymore," Niall retorted. He paused and his eyes widened comically. "He has no power over me," he realised.

"He has not since the day you convinced him to let me marry you," Liam smiled. "You just had not realised until now."

Niall shook his head. "I would not have challenged him while he was still king. I could banish him, had I good reason. I am not going to," he clarified to a slightly startled Liam. "But I have the power to. It would not be particularly clever, as the kingdom would see me as petty and vengeful, but if ever there was a need, I could do it."

"Indeed you could…" Kissing Niall's temple, Liam chuckled, "Please do not. Your father would be convinced that I talked you into it if you did."

Laughing loudly, Niall scooted closer to Liam and the two of them watched the people milling around in the village. "Very true."

  "Your Majesties, the suspected traitor." The guards standing before Niall and Liam's thrones stepped aside to reveal a scrawny-looking man of his early-twenties, his wrists and ankles chained and his shoulders being held by two of his captors.

"Suspected?" Niall asked, raising an eyebrow at his guard captain.

"Yes, Majesty. We have not solid evidence, but that which we do have points to him," the captain explained.

Niall frowned, studying the man. "And you believe that he is the one doing what?"

"Stealing food from the castle stores, Majesty."

Looking to Liam, Niall raised his eyebrow again. "What do you intend to do with him?" he asked the captain as he turned back to him.

"We await your orders, Majesty." The captain bowed slightly in respect.

Niall was stunned for a moment. "Oh… yes, of course. Well then… tell me, Captain, what would my father have had you do with him?"

"He would be taken to the dungeon and systematically tortured until he confessed his guilt," the captain replied promptly. The captive man's eyes grew wide in terror.

"Disgusting," Niall muttered. "Without evidence that this man really is the thief, you are quite happy to beat and torture him until he admits guilt that may not even be his own?"

The captain shook his head a little. "We were following orders, Majesty."

Glancing to Liam, Niall saw his husband flinch in memory of his time in the dungeon. He reached over and clasped the brunette's hand, then looked back to the guards. "Take him to the dungeons, yes, but once he is locked up, remove those beastly chains. And give the man something to eat, for heaven's sake. For a supposed food thief, he is awfully skinny." He gave his guard captain a look before continuing. "Once that is done, bring me his family. Have you family?" he asked the man. When all he received was a nod, Niall sighed, "Speak. What family have you?"

"My pregnant wife, my mother, and my brother," the man told him.

"Bring them," Niall told the captain. "And if any one of them is injured, I shall be holding you personally responsible. Go."

The guards took the man from the throne room, the door slamming closed behind them.

"Pregnant wife… If it is him stealing food, one could understand why," Niall noted.

"But surely he would take enough for himself as well," Liam frowned. "From what I have been told, much more has been taken than barely enough for a pregnant lady. If he is not eating it himself, what in heaven's name would he be doing with so much food?"

Niall shook his head. "I do not believe they have captured the culprit. Our thief is bold to steal from the castle. That man was not bold in any sense."

"Agreed," Liam nodded, squeezing Niall's hand. "What do you hope to gain from his family?"

"A distraction for the guards," Niall replied simply.

"If they are not guarding the castle kitchens, the real thief is more likely to strike again…" Liam murmured thoughtfully.

"My thoughts exactly," Niall chuckled. He brought Liam's hand up to his face and held it against his cheek. "It is strange to be in such a position of power, but I think I like it."

"Do not let it corrupt you, please," Liam half-begged. "Do not spoil the innocence of the prince I fell in love with."

"You have already done so," Niall whispered cheekily, kissing Liam's hand before the throne room doors opened again for their next duty.

  When the guards returned with the suspected thief's family, Niall ordered them to wait while he finished with the maid before them. "But Majesty-" the guard captain began.

"Wait, Captain," Liam said sternly. "You are not the only person in the castle handling a matter of importance." He turned his attention back to the maid.

"Make sure the appropriate medications are located and distributed throughout the village," Niall told the maid, who nodded in understanding. "Thank you, Danielle." With another polite nod, the maid hurried off to her duties. "Now, Captain, we are ready for you."

The captain ushered a very pregnant blonde woman towards them, followed by an older woman and a young boy, both with dark hair. "These are the thief's family members, Majesties."

Shooting the captain a slight glare, Niall asked, "Have you solid evidence of his guilt, Captain?"

"No, Majesty-"

"Then kindly refrain for referring to him as 'the thief'," Niall said shortly. "Have one of your men check the kitchens."

"But-"

"If you continue to disrespect your king by questioning orders, Captain, you will no longer be in a position to do so," Liam interrupted irately.

"Yes, Majesty. Apologies, Majesties." The captain bowed slightly, then turned to his men and gestured for one to check the kitchens.

"Please, Your Majesties, set my husband free," the pregnant woman begged, earning a slap on the cheek from the captain.

"Do not speak unless you are spoken to," he snapped.

"Captain!" Niall stood from his seat and marched towards the guard captain. The captain was taller, but Niall's glare up at the man reduced his height slightly. "I will not stand for undue violence. I ordered no harm to come to these people. If you disobey or question another order, I shall have you replaced."

"With all due respect, Majesty, you do not rule like your father," the captain replied, staring over Niall's head to avoid eye contact.

"I am not my father," Niall spat back. "And neither shall I be. You will adjust to this fact or find employment elsewhere, Captain. That is your final warning." Turning to the woman, who was still holding her cheek, Niall told her, "I cannot set you husband free while he is still a suspected thief. Fear not for his safety; arrest does not equate to torture." He shot the captain a look before returning his gaze to the woman. "What is your name?"

"Perrie, Majesty," the woman replied quietly.

"And your husband?" Niall asked.

"Zayn. Zayn Malik. He has done no wrong, Majesty, I swear on it."

Nodding, Niall assured her, "I believe you. But until we have solid evidence for or against him, we cannot set him free."

The doors to the throne room burst open and a frantic guard stumbled through them. "Sir!"

"What is it?" the guard captain asked.

"There has been another theft!"

Glancing to the captain, Niall raised an eyebrow with a small smirk. "Do you still believe our guest in the dungeon is our thief?"

"Check the dungeon," the captain barked at the frantic guard, who nodded and darted away.

"What do you expect to find, Captain?" Liam asked, rising from his seat and moving to stand beside his husband. "An empty cell?"

No sooner had the words left Liam's mouth, another two guards entered the room followed by the one who had just left. "This man was caught attempting to free the suspect, Majesties." The two new guards looked to the man between them. They were holding an arm each, but the man stood defiantly, still tugging to free his arms from their grasp.

"Louis?" Perrie gasped.

Gently guiding Perrie towards her family, Niall instructed, "Wait over there, dear lady." He and Liam returned to their thrones, looking down at the guards and their new captive.

"I take it your name is Louis?" Liam asked the man.

"Who wants to know?" Louis replied, looking Liam up and down with a distrusting eye.

"Louis, would you kindly explain what you were doing in the castle dungeons?" Niall asked politely.

Louis snorted. "Trying to free my friend, who is being wronging imprisoned."

"Because he did not steal from the kitchens?" Niall's voice gave away that he knew the answer to that question already.

"Of course he did not," Louis scoffed. "He has been protecting Perrie, as any good husband should."

"Which would imply that you knew who the thief was," Liam more stated than asked.

Huffing, Louis announced, "I am your thief. Free my friend."

"I do not doubt you are," Niall nodded.

The captain turned to his men. "Guards, take him-"

"Nowhere," Niall interrupted. "Take him nowhere. Louis, I would like to know the reason for your thievery."

"Because you may have all the food you could ever want, Majesty, but the people in the village are starving. We are all in need of food, which you have an abundance of in your kitchens." Tugging again for his arms to be freed and only receiving a tighter grip, Louis stood taller. "My friend's wife is pregnant and needs more food than normal. Instead of finding more food, Zayn has been going with less so Perrie may eat. He refused to come with me when I suggested stealing, and has been adamant about not eating what I have stolen, but the rest of the village has been wholly grateful."

Niall nodded in understanding and looked to Liam. The two shared a silent conversation before returning their attention to the people gathered before them. "Guard, find Danielle and ask her that sufficient food be prepared with the medicines for the villagers," Liam instructed.

"Majesty, do you believe it is wise to give the people what they have broken the law to achieve?" the captain asked as a guard hurried to obey Liam's order.

"They do not have enough food. They have such a shortage of food that there are members of the pubic who are willing to steal from the palace, bearing the risks in mind. If the villagers are given the food they require, there shall no longer be a need for theft," Niall explained as patiently as he could.

"So you are rewarding thievery?" the captain questioned slowly.

"No, Louis shall be punished for his acts." Niall looked to the thief. "But nothing with the severity of death. His actions where those of a desperate people; who are we to punish those struggling to survive?"

Louis blinked slowly. "We finally have a king with a soul." Looking to Liam, he amended, "Two kings. Thank you, Majesties."

Turning his head to the captain, Niall instructed, "Take him to the dungeons. Do not chain him." He waved both hands to dismiss the guards, who took Louis from the room. "And bring Zayn to the throne room," he called after them, merely receiving a grunt from the captain in response.

Hurrying over to the thrones, Perrie clasped her hands together and bowed her head. "Thank you, Majesties."

"It was no trouble," Niall assured her.

Soon enough, the doors opened and Zayn rushed through them, wrapping his wife up in his arms. "Are you feeling well?" he asked her, holding Perrie's cheek.

"I am fine," Perrie nodded. She looked over Zayn's features with a small smile. "You are not so pale."

"I was given food." Turning to the kings, Zayn bowed. "Thank you, Majesties."

Niall waved his hand dismissively. "It was not trouble," he repeated. "Please escort the Malik family back to their home," he asked of the guard who had brought Zayn in.

"Yes, Majesty." The guard showed the family out, closing the heavy wooden doors behind them and leaving Niall and Liam alone.

"Lord," Niall breathed out. He felt Liam grasp his hand and sent him a smile. "I think we will get the hang of this," he whispered to him.

"I think we will," Liam nodded with a grin.