So fandom life has been full of emotion lately. Between Glee ending, Klaine's wedding and Darren heading off to Broadway (I'll be there to see him in June, I can't wait!) it has been a crazy few weeks. So this is the second last chapter, I hope you guys enjoy it. I will try to get the last chapter up before Glee ends.
As always, thanks to GleekMom for being an awesome beta reader.
The next two weeks leading to Kurt's name day were peaceful and full of love. The manor was fixed up of the damages caused by Hunter's men, who had been rounded up by Santana and Dani before being tossed in Hunter's dungeon. Kurt offered those that were jobs in exchange for their loyalty, but warned of immediate banishment should they betray him. Since most had no true loyalty to Hunter, there only for the pay or to escape blackmail, Kurt had a new regalia of guards by day's end. Blaine asked Kurt to get someone to ensure Tina was alright, but advised that Kurt be nowhere near the woman when she got free, just in case. Kurt gave Cooper that honour, telling him to make sure Tina was returned to her parents and the situation explained. Needless to say, she was sent home, refusing to live out her remaining days either imprisoned or banished.
Kurt and Blaine had rewritten all the laws they deemed unjust already, so they went through each one to make sure nothing was amiss, though it often lead to them getting distracted by kisses. Many of the servants had gone to visit their parents so they were spared some teasing, but nothing stopped Rachel from giggling every time she caught them ignoring work for the pleasure of each other's lips. Eventually Kurt told her that she could either stop or leave the manor. She huffed and stomped out, and packed her bags to go live with Cooper. Blaine's older brother brought her back after a few days, claiming she had learned her lesson. But given the strained expression on Cooper's face, Blaine could tell that Cooper could only stand the girl in small doses. He chuckled at that, knowing his brother had finally met his match in a woman, and hoped they would work it out, though a small part of him feared those two becoming thick as thieves.
It had been a tearful goodbye when Sam declared that he was going to visit his parents. He promised he would return in time for the ceremony, but he was going to enjoy seeing his family for the first time in over a decade. Blaine embraced the tall, blonde man who had been his friend over his time here. They promised to write, and when Blaine inquired over his traveling mate, Sam shook his head, just nodding at Brittany who continued to hang off Santana while Dani played with her hair. "She's happy here, and I heard the girls saying they were going to go travel the world once Kurt's settled. We're still friends, and better off this way, it ended well, no hearts truly broken. Maybe when I get back, we'll see if we can try again or maybe there will be someone else," he said, his gaze shifting quickly to Mercedes and back again, "who might return my affections." Sam just scowled at the smile on Blaine's face. "You keep safe dude. You and Kurt enjoy this time together." He gave Blaine one final hug before going off to say his farewells to the rest of the staff, promising Kurt that he would travel safely.
Artie returned to his parents' home, and though he was told he was always welcome at the manor, he knew his home would never be there. He swore to Kurt that he would return every week to beat Kurt at chess as he had when they were children. Kurt squawked in indignation, and that lead to a loud shouting match between the two of them. Blaine just stood back and chuckled as they argued over the game, only for Artie to crow when he finally won. He refused a rematch until Kurt conceded that even with ten years without hands to play with or even practise with, that Artie was the better player. It had taken some time to calm Kurt down, and if the rough sex that night was a result of losing at chess, Blaine hoped Artie always won, because he swore he could hear angels sing by the time Kurt was done with him.
The day that Kurt came of age dawned bright and beautiful. Blaine had permanently moved into Kurt's room, so he could watch his lover awaken every morning, the sun streaming in through their curtains, highlighting Kurt's every lovely feature. They would announce their courtship today, though even without the promises, rings or vows, they both already knew they were bound to one another in their hearts. Blaine shrugged himself out of the bed, giving himself a cursory cleaning before wrapping the soft robe hanging from the bedpost around his naked form. Sleep clothing had never been worn by Kurt or himself in this room, even on the nights when they did not make love, the urge to wrap around the other with no barriers in the way was the only way they could sleep.
He nudged Kurt gently, and as he stirred, he planted a sweet kiss to Kurt's lips. They kissed all the time now, unable to get enough of it, something that was so much easier now with Kurt as a human, though they never forgot their first beautiful kiss when not even the curse could stand between them. Kurt slowly blinked his eyes open, smiling when he saw Blaine standing over him. "Good morning my sweet. Would you throw on a robe and meet me in my music room? I have a present for you, in honour of your turning of age, and it can only be given there." At Kurt's questioning face, he smiled. "No, it's a surprise. Just meet me there." Blaine gave him one more quick kiss, put his slippers on and headed out the door, throwing a wink over his shoulder before it closed.
Kurt stretched, feeling his muscles strain and hearing the pop of kinks as his toes curled under the sheets. After a quick wash, he threw on his robe and slippers, peering out his door before going down the hall. Though they had been caught out kissing numerous times, Kurt would prefer that his servants not be privy to every development in his relationship with Blaine. It was hard to hide that they were sharing a bed, but so far, only Elliot had found the two men together sound asleep as he resumed his valet duties. He confessed as much to Kurt and promised his discretion, but urged Kurt to enjoy his happiness, as once his rule started, sleep may be the only time they could be them.
At the door to Blaine's music room, Kurt turned the knob quietly, and snuck up the stairs, finding a smiling Blaine sitting at the piano. He pointed for Kurt to sit in his customary chair that had been snug as a beast but swallowed him as a man. Kurt sat primly, bringing his cold toes up underneath him, and waved for Blaine to proceed.
"So I started writing this before you turned back," Blaine said, emotion strong in his voice, "after we had started becoming us. I hope you like it." He began to play.
'All of me, loves all of you, love your curves and all your edges. All your perfect imperfections. You're my end and my beginning, even when I lose I'm winning. I give you all of me, and you give me all of you.'
Kurt had tears streaming down his face. No one had shown him such love, such kindness and beauty ever. He rose from his seat, threw his arms around Blaine as his words faded and brought their lips together for a kiss. He had known for weeks that today was the day he would ask Blaine to be his, so this just confirmed it. By the end of the day, Blaine would be his intended, the man he had sworn to marry. All he needed was for Blaine to say yes.
Blaine took in the court room, admiring the way Elliot and Mercedes had put it together. A quartet of musicians stood off in one corner playing a soft waltz. A table was against one wall laden with small finger foods and another held drinks. They had tossed around the idea of hiring more help, but after acquiring more than enough guards, they shrugged it off and put those men to work, handing out napkins and flutes of champagne to the guests. The servants in Hunter's home had also come to work for Kurt, though he had found positions for many of them within the town, not wanting to overstaff his own estate. He could see some were conferring with Elliot over the placement of used dishes behind a large display of flowers. Elliot shook his head in Blaine's direction when the men weren't looking, but all Blaine could do in return was offer a sympathetic smile.
Around the room he saw various villagers, some nobles from other counties and surprisingly, his parents. He knew Cooper had written to them about his new position at Kurt's side, but he was amazed that they had been so close by as to come. He hugged his mother warmly, and shook his father's hand, relating how much he missed them, and how surprised he was to see them there.
"Well Lord Hummel sent a note to us personally, he wanted us here, told us how much it would mean to the both of you. Hinted that you had some announcement to make?" her mother said slyly, nudging Blaine with her elbow. His father remained straight face, but it was obvious from the curiosity in his eyes he was eager for Blaine to explain as well. Obviously someone had also informed them that Kurt intended to abolish the rule concerning the love between two men or women, or else they would not have such expectant looks upon their faces. Perhaps Cooper had already hinted his relationship with Kurt to them, and it seemed they did not object.
Blaine just blushed, smiled and shook his head. "I promised Kurt...Lord Hummel I wouldn't say anything before he did. So just wait, but it's...good news. I hope you see it that way too." His parents enveloped him in a hug, his father whispering his pride for him in Blaine's ear, his mother kissing his cheek. Blaine himself was struggling not to cry, finally given the proof he needed that his parents would love him, no matter who he held in his heart. He knew Cooper had assured him that his parents supported him, but when they themselves destroyed that doubt, it was like a weight off his shoulders. He gripped them both tighter before going off to mingle, quickly wiping the tears from his eyes as he moved away.
Blaine nearly laughed aloud when he saw Kitty practically sitting in Artie's lap while her former paramour Jake flitted from girl to girl. He smiled to see Artie find someone, though he was unsure if Kitty was the best choice. In another spot he could see Rachel talking the ear off an exasperated Cooper while Santana cackled with laughter at his misfortune. Brittany and Dani seemed to be enjoying the free drinks, as they were hanging off one another, a glass in each of their hands, so Blaine sent a servant over to them with a plate of food in hopes they would sober up before Kurt entered. He sent another man to save his brother with a fabricated message that he was needed by his parents, which garnered a grateful look from Cooper and a put out looking Rachel. Blaine laughed, wondering if the two of them would ever get along, and silently rooted for Rachel to win his brother over.
The crier standing at the door announced "The Cohen-Chang family" and Blaine turned to see Tina accompanied by her parents. Her gaze landed upon him before lighting up, and Blaine groaned inwardly. He had not seen Tina since she was freed from Hunter's dungeon, and was thankful the new guards had known to keep all the villagers away until now, but there was no avoiding this. He could also see a tall, meek looking boy on her arm, being dragged towards him, and Dottie scowling behind Tina's mother. It seemed she was still indebted to the Cohen-Chang family, and for that, Blaine was sorry, but he could hold no sympathy for the girl when he learned from some of Hunter' former servants the girl's role in Hunter's schemes.
"Blainey days!" Tina cried, reaching out for him. Blaine stood still but with his hands out in front of him in hopes of holding her off. She came to a stop right in front of him, then instead of pulling her into her arms like expected, she curtsied, elbowing the man next to her who bowed. Blaine just stared. "Oh, sorry. I suppose I should address you as your proper title, High Adviser. I just wanted to apologize for my behaviour. After we heard the charges against Hunter, well my parents sat me down and made me realize my actions were...not the smartest. Cooper introduced me to Mike here, who has been helping me get through this whole traumatic ordeal. His parents are the local healers you know, so he is well versed in helping others. But if you ever change your mind..." Tina winked then walked off towards the drink table, leaving Blaine still stunned behind her.
Mike sighed "I'll make sure she stays away sir. I adore her, but she has some issues to work through. I thought bringing her here would be a good step in her healing, but I can see now it will only lead to trouble. I'll let her mingle and watch the ceremony then take her home so she doesn't try something untoward. If you will excuse me sir," he said, giving a courteous bow before chasing after Tina, seeing her make a line right towards Kitty now fueled with champagne. Blaine shook his head and silently wished the man all the luck in the world, as he would definitely need it when it came to Tina. He gave another glance around, and saw that no one was looking for him, so he quietly slipped out in order to find Kurt.
Blaine's beloved was standing in the library, Hunter in chains on his knees in front of him, several Mages surrounding him and Shannon to his left. A stern expression painted Kurt's face while Hunter wore a frightened expression on his, though he seemed to be trying to glower at all in the room. Blaine stood in the doorway, unsure if he should enter, but when Kurt caught sight of him, he waved him inside. Then Kurt turned to address Hunter. "Hunter Clarington, you know the charges being laid against you, I stated them at our last meeting, though now I get to add attempted murder to that list. I am sure you are aware you will be stripped of all your lands, titles and possessions. The sale of which will be divided up between myself to add to our kingdom and your staff so they receive a good wage. Though some have been given the chance to apply for work here, many wanted a new life. I should have you executed for your treason alone. Yet I will show mercy, and banish you...to the land of Columbus, where I can guarantee you that the lords there are not nearly so forgiving. I have already sent word to Lord Montgomery that you will be escorted there with some of the Mages, and if they decide to enact judgment upon you, well I have no recourse to stop them. As of right now, they will hold you for your crimes, I assume that it may involve you living out your days in their dungeons. In fact, I highly suggested that is what should occur, and seeing as Lord Wesley and I usually agree on such matters, I cannot see him letting you go easily. I will say this though. If you ever escape, or are set free for some strange reason, and set foot in my lands again, I will not hesitate to kill you myself. You are dismissed."
With a poof of smoke, Hunter and several of the Mages guarding him disappeared, leaving Shannon and a few others behind. Blaine grasped Kurt in a tight hug, both men smiling now that the horror of the whole situation was over. Neither had any doubt that the lords of Columbus would have Hunter imprisoned, that he would never threaten them or their love again. The Mages looked on, none with disapproval, though only Shannon showed any real emotion, that being of pride and a bit of adoration. Blaine detached from Kurt, slipped their hands together, and began to tug him towards the main hall. "If you lords and ladies will excuse us, Lord Hummel is required to actually show himself in order to take his throne. I am sure you wish to go ahead to be present for his announcements regarding you. Come on my love, you have to get presentable."
Once they were out in the hall, Blaine tugged Kurt into a secluded corner. "Blaine what are you on about? I look perfectly presentable-" his speech was interrupted by a passionate kiss and his back meeting the wall. Once the men pulled away from one another, both were breathing heavy but beaming with smiles. "Come on my lord, let's go get you your crown and let your adoring public see your beautiful face." Kurt just smiled and let Blaine tug him towards the throne room.
All eyes turned as the crier announced Lord Kurt Hummel and his High Adviser Blaine Anderson. Blaine knew his place was next to Kurt, so he had finally agreed to accept his title, but swore he would renounce it should someone more qualified wish to apply. Kurt had smiled at this, and told him that Blaine was the one who made him see his destiny, so from now until Kurt decreed otherwise, Blaine was High Adviser. The two men made a striking picture together. Kurt was tall and lean, his chestnut hair swept up in a coif, his blue eyes sparkling. He was adorned in a white jacket with silver brocade, a deep blue sash across his chest, black leggings and boots adorning his legs. Blaine was a tad shorter, hair glossy and curled, hazel eyes following Kurt's every movement. His outfit was similar, though he wore no jacket, just a simple white tunic and deep blue waist coat, black trousers and boots following a few steps behind his lord.
Kurt stood at his seat, taking in the crowd, a smile on his face as the men bowed, the ladies dipping in curtsy as he sat in the throne his father once held. Blaine stood off to the side, and Kurt vowed that he would be sitting in his mother's chair before the ceremony was out. A man approached, a high priest who Kurt had grudgingly agreed to perform the ceremony that would make him Lord Magistrate. He held no faith with the gods, but to outright refuse the faith would anger many. There was no rule against who or even if a man had to worship and he did not intend to start, but tradition could have this small space today.
"Are you Kurt of the house Hummel ready to take the vows?" the priest intoned, Kurt giving a nod and replying his agreement. "Then we shall begin. After every question I will ask, you shall respond 'I do so swear'. So, do you, Kurt of the house Hummel swear to serve the realm?"
"I do so swear." Kurt replied, and on it went. Yes, he swore to protect his people, uphold their safety and prosperity. To do his duty until his death, or until he wished to pass the duty onto his heir. To lead them in battle should it come, to give them council should they ask. To be fair and just in judgment of criminals brought before him. The questions seemed never-ending, but finally he was asked the final one.
"Do you, Kurt of the house of Hummel swear to do your utmost to uphold the vows you have made today so that your kingdom, your people and yourself may live long and happily under your reign?" asked the priest.
"I do so swear." Kurt said, smiling at Blaine who beamed with pride.
The priest bowed, then motioned forward the boy who held the pillow on which rested a thin circlet of silver that marked the Lord Magistrate. It had been cleaned and polished once recovered from Hunter's estate, though many of the servants there claimed he never wore it, preferring a crown of gold that was ill-suited for him. The priest raised the circlet up and placed it gently upon Kurt's head, thankfully not upsetting his hair, and spoke, "Then it is my honour to name you Lord Magistrate of this, the kingdom of Lima. Long may you reign."
"Long may he reign," echoed the crowd before they burst into applause. Kurt waved from his seat as they began to form a queue in order to congratulate him. He held a hand aloft to stop them, intending to make his announcements before they came up to pledge fealty. That would just be an endless parade of people that would leave once they had said their mind or tried to win his favour, and he was not about to lose his audience before he had his say.
"My ladies and gentlemen, I thank you for coming today, and for the kind thoughts I am sure you wish me to hear. But before that, I wish to say my peace, make some announcements, if you will grant me your ears for but a moment. First, the Mages have formed a new council. It consists of Lady Isabelle Wright, Lord Brian Ryan and Lady Shelby Cochran."
This was met with a smattering of applause before Kurt held up his hand to continue. "They have been allowed to have small magics in this kingdom, but every spell, charm, incantation...every bit of magic they or any other with power perform must first be approved by the new High Enchantress, Lady Shannon Beiste. She will ensure that what magic has done to my family will never again occur within our lands."
A solemn silence reigned as everyone bowed their heads in reverence to the dead Lord and Lady of this land, stolen much too early through evil means. Kurt had already decided not to allude to what magic had done to him, letting his subjects live in ignorance of his decade of suffering. Besides, he had one more piece of news to share, and he knew it would cloud over that happiness if he revealed his beastly past. "Finally, I have abolished the evil law my predecessor had put in place concerning what constitutes 'normal relations'. Nevermore shall any ruler dictate who any man or woman shall love or marry within this kingdom. Men, women, in whatever combination are free to love and wed as they see fit as long as both parties consent and are of legal age."
This was met by a much louder applause, some couples of the same gender hugging tightly. Kurt reached out his hand to Blaine, hauling him forward, both men blushing as a whoop was heard from Cooper. As the applause died down, the crowd noticed their Lord holding hands with his adviser, and another round began as Kurt held up his hand to stem their clapping. "In that vein, I wish to say that I do not intend to rule alone. If he will have me, I wish to make Blaine Anderson not only my high adviser but my intended." At this he turned to Blaine, falling to one knee and brought out the ring he had intended to give Blaine, which Elliot had taken to get adjusted to fit. Kurt had balked at that, but Elliot had merely winked and told Kurt to make his proposal good.
"Blaine, we have only known each other a short time, been in each other's heart for less than that. Yet I cannot imagine anyone else by my side. I have known from the moment we met that we were meant for more, that we had somehow always been meant for one another, from one lifetime to the next, you are who I am supposed to love. I wish to spend this lifetime with you, loving you for this forever, as my husband. So, my dearest friend, my truest love, will you marry me?"
Blaine's eyes were misted, but he could see faces in the crowd, all supportive, though some a bit shocked at his coming out like this. Tina looked shattered, but Blaine paid her no mind. His parents and Cooper were standing with the servants, all of them with hopeful and proud expressions. But it was Kurt; gorgeous Kurt who just radiated love that Blaine was concerned with. This man wanted to spend his life with Blaine, wanted him to share his everything and every day. Blaine could barely keep the tears in when he thought of the future the two of them could have, could shape together, side by side. He nodded, squeaking out a quiet, yet jubilant, "Yes," before Kurt rushed forward and grasped him into the most beautiful, passionate loving kiss as cheers erupted throughout the great hall.
Music swelled as Kurt slid the ring that had once been his mother's over Blaine's finger. With a watery smile, he escorted his new fiancé to the throne that he had always hoped he would occupy and they sat, gesturing that now, finally, the people could meet their new leaders. Both men beamed, exchanging small kisses as the well-wishers came and went, neither paying any mind to those few who left the proceedings or decided not to speak. A few malcontents could not upset them. Not today, the first of the rest of their lives.