Monstrum

4

Louis didn't know why he listened to the man, but he did.

Louis kept the ring on like he was told to, and hadn't been separated from it for a whole year. Somehow wearing the ring made him feel calm.

He could attest to that as he sat on his throne, twisting the band of gold around his finger.

"Smile, Louis. It's your birthday!"

Louis looked over and smiled softly at his uncle. "Sorry."

"Well dont apologize." Liam glanced at the soldiers standing by his nephew and approached him. "How does it feel to be seventeen?"

"It's great; hopefully I don't get attacked this year too."

"You have the soldiers and Eversio to keep you safe, don't worry." Liam reached down to pat Eversio's head, only pulling away when a warning growl came from the hound.

"I just think after what happened, it wouldn't be a smart idea to throw a masquerade party, but who am I to make Mother's favorite day of the year boring," Louis sighed, leaning back against the throne and swinging his feet.

Liam couldn't help but chuckle at that. "She just wants you to have a good birthday, Louis." He adjusted his mask and dusted the glitter off of his hands. "You know she wouldn't purposefully put you into danger."

Louis nodded and mumbled, "I know." Louis swept his vision over the hoards of people socializing, soon enough his uncle joined the crowd.

It was safe to say that Louis was in a bad mood. Last year's situation made him hesitant to relax and actually enjoy his birthday. It also didn't help that Louis was annoyed at his Father for yelling at Eversio just before the celebration for growling at him.

So Louis spent his time sitting on his throne and twisting his ring in silence.

The sound of glass being tapped with silverware was what brought him out of the trance. Louis looked up and sighed at the sight of his Mother walking up the steps to overlook the crowd.

"I would like to make a toast," Catherine said with a brilliant smile, and of course everyone in the ballroom turned to look at her. "I am so proud of my son Louis, and how much he has grown."

Louis lifted his champagne colored mask to scratch at his cheek and hide the roll of his eyes.

Catherine turned to look at her son, holding a hand out to him. "Come, my son."

Louis stood from his chair and made his way toward his Mother, not even looking down when Eversio bumped into his leg.

"I love you so much, Louis." Catherine took Louis' hand in hers. "I hope you have a beautiful birthday"

Louis looked up at his Mother, frowning slightly when he noticed tears welling in her eyes. "What's wrong, Mother?"

Catherine quickly wiped her eyes and kissed Louis' cheek, bending down to whisper into his ear. "I love you, Louis. Never forget that."

Louis looked back at his Mother with concern, only becoming more worried when she avoided his eye contact and raised her glass.

"To Louis." Catherine took a sip of wine and looked over at her son. "May your future hold the happiness it deserves."

"Mother-"

"I'll be back, my Love. Keep that thought," Catherine rushed out, kissing Louis' forehead and disappearing into the crowd.

Louis sighed and looked down at Eversio. He didn't want to be in the overcrowded ballroom anymore.

"I'm going to take Eversio out," Louis said, glancing up at the soldiers.