#richard rowland died and everyone cheered

[tragedy-machine]

Royalty au where both Edwin and Charles are princes of rivaling countries

They first meet in peaceful times though, and start to spend every summer together, becoming quick friends

Edwin confines in Charles that his family hates him for being "weak" and mistreats him since, as the 2nd son, he doesn't matter to them, and Charles tells Edwin about his father

They both are just 16, when the war begins, and they're forced to stay away for four years

And then one day, even though the Rowlands are close to prevailing, Richard Rowland is slain in battle and Charles inherits the throne

He sends for King Edmund Payne to discuss a peace treaty

He'll end the war and spare the Payne kingdom under one condition

"Whatever do you wish for, Your Majesty?" Edmund Payne asks, seething, but unable to refuse and risk losing what's left of his war-stricken kingdom.

"Him." The room falls silent as Charles' raised finger lands unmistakably on Edwin.

They haven't spoken in years, but Charles doubts Edwin's relationship with his family has improved over that time period. They haven't seen each other since they were 16, but Charles still loves Edwin just as he did back then.

Edmund almost happily accepts and sends Edwin over. When Charles and Edwin are alone for the first time that evening, Charles rushes to apologize for taking the decision out of Edwin's hands and for treating Edwin like a thing to be exchanged and-

But Edwin doesn't let him finish. Instead, he flings his arms around Charles’ neck and kisses his husband-to-be soundly.