The castle's clock tower tolled for the end of the evening. Paribanu had long since retired for the night, as had Jafar. The grand hall was nearly empty and being cleaned for tomorrow. King Arthur sat alongside Queen Ophelia and Sultan Huran at a near-empty table, laughing drunkenly with them. Snow and Ali finally decided to make their escape from the party. There was a tired look in either of the boy's eyes, each in need of more time alone.
They walked hand in hand together, making their way through the main corridor and around the bend towards the stairwell leading up to Snow's tower. They were just about to make it when they were halted, the path blocked by a set of guards. "Your Highness. If I may, we'll be glad to escort Prince Ali to his bed-chamber ourselves. Traditionally, it's considered bad luck to be with your… "companion" until after you are married," one of them said before turning their attention towards the Nayzarian. "Prince Ali, you'll find the guest accommodations arranged for you to be most comfortable."
The two princes looked at each other out of the corners of their eyes and then back at the guards, each annoyed and a little confused about what to say at first. Ali gave Snow's hand a small squeeze. Fire wormed in Snow's chest. He felt stronger, like sparks were lighting up underneath him. Snow cleared his throat and spoke. "Erh~ That's quite alright, gentleman. Ali and I will be more than comfortable. Together! After all, we're entering new times. Let this be the time for new practices and traditions."
Without a moment further, Snow stepped past them both, pulling Ali alongside him up the spiral stairs. He held his breath, choosing to walk slowly, briskly until they were out of sight from the guards. With a sharp exhale, he tugged Ali onward, almost racing up the stone steps, out into the next hallway, and so on. They didn't stop running together and refused to let go until finally they reached Snow's chamber and the door shut behind them.