Kyle ruled over the drow kingdom of Zaron with a compassionate and nearly obsessive vigor. Keeping the drow elves safe and part of a functioning society, as well as commandeering his army of knights, rendered him constantly busy and often deprived of proper sleep. He worked endlessly to bring about peace and forge alliances while upholding a forceful cavalry to protect his people when the time called for it. This balance of benevolence and ferocity delegated the high elf as one of the greatest leaders in current power; many of the other nations held Zaron in high regard with the utmost respect. Such a title, though ultimately rewarding, was costly, and Kyle's health did not go unaffected.

The young monarch strolled through the grassy roads of his kingdom to sustain his familiarity and positive relationship with his people. He shook hands with the commoners, held their babies, and listened intently to their in-depth comments, explanations, and complaints. Many young children made a game of running around his robed legs, and Kyle indulged them by taking part in their innocent play. Despite its time-consuming nature, he smiled through each interaction, knowing that only good would come of engaging with his subjects. One of the knights, Sir Stanley, noticed the king's lethargic demeanor and made his way over to him. The townspeople remained crowded around him.

"Your majesty, the royal court has requested your presence," Sir Stanley said, bowing his head. Kyle raised his eyebrows, giving him a slight look, then said his goodbyes as necessary. Stan smiled and stealthily winked at the monarch as he led him back to the castle. A royal escort was seldom serious, but the monarch would have been stopped so many times that he would be late for the dinner feast.

While trekking up the stairs, Kyle made note of walking past his advisors and servants. Once within the walls of his bedchambers, Stan closed the giant doors behind him with his back. Kyle stepped up to him with his arms crossed against his chest. He pressed his lips together, struggling to suppress the smile trying to break through.

"So... when did the court summon for me?" he asked.

"They didn't." Kyle let his arms fall, looking at Stan.

"I figured you had some ulterior motive," he chided, biting the inside of his cheek.

Smiling back at him, the knight placed his hand on the king's shoulder, "I know, my love. I'm sorry I lied. I just wanted you to have a break, and that was the only solution I could think of. Please don't be angry."

He breathed out a stressed sigh, allowing Stan's warm touch to cup the side of his face. "You know I could never be angry with you. To be honest, though, I am on edge. With the Stick being in the hands of someone new, I can't help but worry."

A few months ago, Clyde, now the leader of the Army of Darkness—a name he came up with himself—stole the Stick of Truth from the Kingdom of Kupa Keep. It was safe with the Wizard and his company, but they hadn't accounted for a traitor within their borders. Clyde's army had become the largest in all the land in record time, and Kyle was even more pressured to maintain the drow elves' reputation. That, and he had no idea what Clyde would do with the Stick. No one did.

"I know, and I'm constantly amazed by everything you do for this kingdom," Stan replied, caressing his skin with his fingertips. "But I think you're worrying too much about Clyde. It's been months since he's stolen the Stick, and he hasn't done anything of significance."

"I just fear that if not now, something devastating will happen later on. That kind of power can corrupt anyone, and I must do what I can to keep my people safe and prepared." Kyle's words were full of desperation, but Stan managed to soothe him.

"I can assure you that he is not the type to do such a thing. Even though he did betray his allies, I hardly believe that Clyde has evil intentions."

"He is referring to himself as 'The Lord of Darkness', Stan."

"He knows no one would take him seriously otherwise," he shrugged.

Kyle placed his hands on Stan's shoulders, sighing in defeat.

"If only the court was as reassuring as you, my dear," he confided. Stan leaned down to kiss him softly on the lips. After a moment, Kyle gently pushed him, widening the gap between them.

"Not right now. I'm still needed elsewhere," the monarch whispered. Stan's hands traveled down to the small of his back. He attempted to pull Kyle in closer again, but he resisted.

"When will you let me ravish you?" he asked, sultry and low in Kyle's ear. Kyle bit his lip, using every last ounce of his energy to refrain from giving in. As good as Stan was at getting his way, Kyle knew better. The king removed himself from Stan's embrace, hugging his arms to himself.

"Not now," he repeated, thinking quickly, "Tonight. After dinner when everyone's gone to sleep, meet me in the garden."

Stan smiled, keeping his hands to himself, and agreed.