Chapter Text
It's no surprise that the General Mahamatra often stays beyond his working hours.
But on one particular night it is not his office light that still glows, rather it's the office of the Grand Scribe.
Despite handing in his resignation and moving back to his office, Al-Haitham is nevertheless occasionally given reports and duties of the Grand Sage. It is because of this that he continues to be the Acting Grand Sage to the public, and as such, no one questions his private meetings with Cyno.
Few roam the halls at such a late hour, but one matra was lucky enough to witness something unexpected.
It is the sound of soft laughter that first stops their steps, keeping them from descending the stairs and instead prompting them to investigate the sound.
There is but a single office door ajar, its light streaming onto the floors darkened by shadows.
The General Mahamatra Cyno leans against the Scribe's table, reading a report quietly as his companion continues his work. A slowly dwindling pile of papers rest to Al-Haitham's left, their completed companions stacked on the right of the desk.
They speak quietly, talking with the air of old friends.
"Did you really think you'd get out of working so easily?" Cyno says with a laugh.
"I was hopeful." Al-Haitham responds, "Perhaps the General will grant me some mercy, considering it is my first misdemeanor."
There's the barest hint of a smirk as Cyno turns to his companion. "Not a chance."
He sets the report down and slaps his hand on the small stack of papers on the desk.
"The sooner you finish these, the sooner we can go home." Cyno says simply as he leans over to watch his companion work, eyes following the smooth strokes of the feather quill.
Al-Haitham hums, "I don't suppose an invitation to dinner could convince you to reconsider? I'll pay."
"Are you trying to bribe me, Al-Haitham?"
"Of course not, Cyno."
"Good, because you'd have to offer something better than dinner to convince me."
The two do not speak for some time, merely staring at each other before sharing a smile.
The matra hurriedly escapes the scene, mind ablaze with what they have witnessed.
By noon the next day, there are already rumors of a secret love between the two.