The King's Secret Heine x Viktor The royal Tutor

Part 1

Viktor knelt beside the bed in front of Heine. The red haired man's arms were wrapped around his belly.  The king pressed a gentle hand to his friend's forehead, checking for a fever.

"I think it would be a good idea for you to stay in bed today and see how you feel tomorrow."The blond man suggested softly. 

"I'm afraid under the circumstances, I'll have no choice but to take your advice. If I'm feeling any better later-"

"Heine, the boys' education is important, but so is your health. You can't be expected to teach when you should be resting in bed. I can have the doctor here this afternoon." Heine shook his head.

"That isn't necessary, I just need to rest,it will stop on its own."The king frowned at the reply.

"Yes, after several days of...how did you used to describe it to me, the worst pain you could ever imagine?"

"It isn't always that severe, In fact lately it's been mild compared to-"

"All the same my friend, I encourage you to think about it, he may be able to offer you something for the pain.  You could rest s much easier."

"Viktor-"

"I'm asking as your friend, I don't enjoy seeing you in pain, Heine. Quite the opposite in fact. I'd say you-" Heine gasped, the sharp pain in his abdomen increased suddenly. Viktor carefully pushed Heine back down onto the mattress and pulled the blanket over him.

"I'll send my personal doctor, he can be here shortly. It's no longer up for debate. Until he arrives, please, just try to rest and don't worry about anything. I'll have the boys study in their rooms for the day and tell them not to disturb you while you're not feeling well."

"Don't worry them, Viktor. Telling them that could lead to them asking questions and-"

"It'll be fine. I'll be back to check in as soon as I have a moment."The king promised.

"I'm sure you have more than enough to do, I shouldn't be a concern, with your schedule-"

"I may have a full schedule, but I see no reason why I can't-"

"No more sneaking around, you promised me." Heine reminded sternly.

"I know  I did and I'll keep it. I'll send in one of the maids with some peppermint tea. Is there anything else I can have her bring?"

"No, thank you. The tea will be fine."Viktor sighed heavily.

"I'll see you soon then. "He turned and exited the room,pulling the door closed behind him, he strolled down the corridor until he met with one of the maids. He smiled, greeting her warmly.

"Good Morning, Jenna." The young woman bowed politely.

"Good morning, your highness, I hope you're well."

"Very well,thank you. Would you mind taking some peppermint tea to Professor Heine's room when you get a moment, and also if you can, a warm compress would do him some good. " 

"Of course, I'll start right away." Viktor thanked her and continued to his office. He was surprised to find his sons waiting for him inside. 

"Good morning,father."The princes greeted in unison.

"What can I do for you this morning, my sons, I'm sorry to say I haven't much time at the moment."

"We understand, Father." Bruno replied. "We were hoping that you would grant us permission to take another trip into town today. We thought we would ask Professor Heine to accompany us."

"I'm sorry boys,Heine won't be able to make such a journey today and I'm afraid you'll have to study quietly on your own for today, he has other things to do." Viktor sat down at his desk and began writing. The princes looked  at each other in surprise. 

"Father,"Bruno began tentatively. "Is everything all right?

"Nothing to concern yourselves with. Go back to your rooms and begin your studying,I'l talk to you all later." He said not  bothering to look up at his children. The princes gave a bow,, leaving the room silently.

"Do you think everything's really okay, Bruni?"Licht asked. 

"I can't say for sure, I suppose we'll have to wait and see what Father has to tell us. For the time being, we should do as he says, though I suspect  there's more to the story that our father is keeping from us. It's obvious we won't get a straight answer right now." The brothers shared a concerned glance before heading to their rooms, where they would spend the better part of the morning sitting quietly, the books open in front of them. Their thoughts turning to the mystery waiting to be uncovered.