They had walked through the gardens for some privacy after drinking the tea. They talked of the past and of happier times, and for a while, everything felt like just how it used to be between them in their better days. Afterwards, Denmark escorted Norway back to his chambers and chastely kissed him goodnight. Walking back to his own chambers to work on some paperwork, Denmark was stopped by some very important officials.
"We have caught word that you are having an affair with our little prize," the fat, pompous man started.
Denmark frowned. Word always did somehow slip out, and after that, it traveled quickly. "It's nothing more than innocent signs of affection, my lords, I am merely improving relations," he politely replied.
The somewhat skinnier man beside the other official scowled. "What you're doing with this thing is still vulgar and sinful. At least put it in a dress if you're going to be playing with this whore," he suggested rather jokingly.
"Y'know, that's not a bad idea!" the fat man agreed, "Put it in a dress, maybe then we may hide this unsightly issue."
"Firstly, please do not refer to my friend that way, gentlemen," Denmark started only to be interrupted again.
"We can refer that thing however we want to, we own it after all. Since we own it, we can also dress it however we wish- treat it however we wish, if we must remind you," the fat man continued, "But, it's because we love you, Danmark, and trust in your infinite wisdom that us mortals lack, that we may let you keep your pet if you just continue to do these small things we're telling you to do."
Denmark was unsure. If he didn't comply, Norway could be taken away from him, locked up, and possibly tortured. The country wouldn't be merciful and neither would the church; there'd be no refuge for the 'dirty thing that tempted Danmark to sinful acts'. His head and his heart spoke very differently on the matter because of this possible outcome. He wanted his friend to continue to relish what freedoms he had left and love him, but the outcome that'd follow allowing such temporary freedom was too unsavoury. "Fine," Denmark finally gave in, "Take away his clothing and replace it with that of a women's… Just please don't take him away…"
"Very wise choice, Danmark. We'll see to the arrangements immediately, and continue on our way now," the skinnier official said, all of them politely bidding each other a good night before parting ways.
That night, Norway had his first truly sound sleep in months, yet Denmark was too plagued with worry to receive any decent-quality sleep.
