Collection • TwoSetViolin

IX. Stalingrad

Summary: Eddy isn't meant to love commoners, much less commoner men like Brett. As the court falls into chaos over the possibilities a gay king brings, Eddy realizes that he has to gain control over his subjects as soon as possible, no matter what it takes. [AU] (6725 words, ~30-35 minute read)

Warnings: Derogatory language and depictions of violence/assault/death.

Notes: Title is inspired by Shostakovich's Eighth Symphony. It's linked above if you're curious! But this is a continuation of Leningrad, inspired by IamYourPeeve's story, It's You! Remember to check it out, please!

This is, once again, a really, really long chapter! And, a repeat of the warnings: for this one-shot, I utilized strong language that may be considered offensive to certain individuals. Be aware as you are reading this.

With that said, enjoy!

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He didn't expect anyone to find out.

Eddy loved intense planning. He was careful about when him and Brett would escape on their adventures, what he would wear, and what he would say to the other members of the court. He had a notebook of dates and stories that him and Brett both knew by heart, to prevent anyone from finding out about their forbidden romance.

But at night, Eddy always waited for his door to quietly creak open. He always turned towards the door, breaking out into a smile as Brett's brown eyes peered in. For once, he knew what he was feeling. It was as clear as day.

Joy.

He felt joy when he pulled Brett into his arms, smothering him in affection and kisses; when he heard "I love you"s in Brett's low, breathless voice; when they headed out into the balcony to watch the stars twinkle. It was the one time when he felt he could be himself, not needing to live a life of lies about his own sexuality and personality.

Tonight, they were stargazing once more.

They had sat on the balcony together, in the exact same spot where they had their first kiss. Eddy was relaxed. His fingers ran through Brett's soft hair as he watched Brett's eyes close and his breaths grow deeper. He seemed peaceful while asleep, with a small smile lingering on his face.

Eddy smiled and looked back up at the stars. He could almost fall asleep himself if not for the fear of being discovered the next morning. He leaned his head back against the stone bricks of the castle, wishing to the stars that this moment would last forever.

He closed his eyes, twirling a strand of Brett's hair around his fingers. The silence was calming, lovely to listen to after a long day at the castle. There weren't many moments like this except at night, when him and Brett would meet up. He was perfectly willing to lose sleep for this - it wasn't as if he slept much in the first place.

He heard a quiet cough. "Milord?"

Eddy nearly jumped up. His heart froze as he turned back towards the entrance, his eyes meeting those of his advisor. He couldn't clearly see the facial expressions of him, but Eddy was nearly certain that it was one of confusion or disgust. He swallowed, looking down at the still-asleep Brett, and began to lie.

He put a finger up to his lips. His finger was shaking. "Be quiet, Dylan. He's fallen asleep."

"Why is he asleep here, instead of in his own room?" Dylan took a few steps closer.

"I wanted to speak to him about plans for tomorrow. Unfortunately, he had grown tired by the end of my rant." He sighed, shrugging. He hoped Dylan couldn't hear the shaking in his voice. "I'm quite afraid to wake him. I figured since he had been working hard lately, I would leave him be for now."