insurmountable | everybody's challenge turning into mine / and overcame adversity

[The knight only smirks back, but fine- he'd refrain from starting a fight over the hand of his prince, though only because Aether's told him not to. He's a resourceful man. He'll make trouble in other ways while still causing a ruckus.

Childe holds still while Aether checks him over, expecting that hand that reaches forward to perhaps adjust the bandage over his eye. His eyes widen when instead, fingers brush his cheek with a gentleness that he could only dream of having with the prince, feeling a small pang of hope in his heart despite all the circumstances. But but fleeting moment ends too soon, as Aether turns and moves away from him, his stomach sinking at the reaction.

Does he really have to accept this?]

Hey, [He calls after Aether, standing up and crossing the room towards the prince.] You know, your words don't entirely match your actions. And you know how actions speak far louder than words.

[His hand reaches out to gently hold the prince's chin between his fingers, the ocean blue of Childe's eyes searching Aether's expression, silently asking him if he realizes the position he's in.]

[He knows he's made a huge mistake. He should've controlled himself better. What he feels or wants doesn't matter... But Childe chases after him, calls him out, his fingers are gentle against Aether's skin and the prince finds himself staring right back into the endless blue of his knight's eyes.

The spell is broken quickly. Aether sharply moves away and closes his eyes to try and calm his loudly beating heart. A voice in the back of his mind is telling him that this is all okay - he's not actually married to anyone and nobody has to know about what happened in this room anyway--

No. This is all wrong. He doesn't feel anything towards Childe, he can't.]

...Don't be ridiculous. You're making it sound like there's something between us.

[Irritated with his own words, he runs a hand over his hair, then moves even further away from the knight. He doesn't want to admit to his own feelings.]

There's nothing. There will never be anything.

[Just why does it hurt so much to say it?]

[It can't be helped. Childe's expression falls again, inwardly sighing at Aether's reaction. He's a perceptive person, and he can tell that the prince is so torn between his own personal feelings and his sense of duty to his position, so much so that he would sacrifice his own happiness for it. Childe, on the other hand, was not one to put duty over the thrill of battle, or whatever else. If his duty lined up with his personal goals, then so be it. It just so happens his duty was to protect the one he truly cared for...but he wished so badly that the other would see that too.

But as it seems, Prince Aether would rather turn his head away from the truth of the matter to look in a direction that he shouldn't have to walk towards, in Childe's opinion.]

Are you so sure? But, if you say so, Your Highness.

[His response is aloof, if one didn't know him any better. But there was a hint of pain to it, an undertone easily missed if one wasn't listening closely enough. The knight turns, sighing quietly once he's able to safely hide his face from the dejected look that spreads across his features. He doesn't want to leave, but...maybe he's already said too much, speaking his mind like that.]

Perhaps I should retire to my own chambers now. It feels as if I've overstayed my welcome here, so I thank you for your concern for my well being, as usual. I apologize for placing the burden of my wounds on you.

[Whenever Childe speaks, there's this odd sensation washing over Aether. Maybe it's guilt, because he's hurting his knight. Maybe it's pain, because the prince is trying to ignore his heart's desires. Maybe it's a wish to just drop everything and run to Childe, but no matter how much he wants that his feet are stuck in one spot.

Aether curls his hands into fists, trying to convince himself that there really is nothing he can do now.]

The princess... Her visit is planned for the next week. She'll be joining us for the dinner.

[Next week it will be all official - he'll be engaged to the princess and nobody will ask his opinion. Childe needs to accept that... And Aether needs to accept it, too. For now it all feels quite surreal, like a dream that you're hoping will end soon.

The prince takes a deep breath.]

But Childe... if you ever get hurt again, remember that I will always patch you up. That will never change and it's no burden either.

[That's the least he can do for his reckless knight and frankly, he doesn't want it to change. If Childe will ever get hurt or sick, Aether wants to be able to check on him, help him. He will cling to this one selfish wish.]

[There had been some prep work that had started to greet the princess that Aether was to marry. He knew. But hearing Aether say it, he can feel his heart drop. It's one thing to have it all be in theory, but when presented, it becomes very real- a real confirmation that he's going to have to watch the prince from the sidelines. Always the bridesmaid, never the bride, as they say.

And he hates it.]

Of course, [he says, his back still turned.] I know you've always cared for my well-being no matter the battle, whether it be a scuffle or an outright war. Goodnight, Prince Aether.

[He continues towards the door, grabbing the handle and opening it to leave. And unless he's stopped, he'll go back to his chambers for the night.]

[His heart is heavy in his chest, urging him to stop Childe from going anywhere but Aether stands still, silent. It's better like this. It's better if their relationship never goes anywhere, if they stay bound only by their duty.

Aether takes a deep breath and turns around.]

Goodnight, Childe.

[He waits for his knight to leave and only then lets himself drop down on the bed, thinking about his feelings, his duties and the destiny that awaits him. The bride will soon arrive.]

----

[The days pass faster than they should and before he knows he's standing right there in the hall, waiting for the princess to arrive. This is their first meeting, so there's much to be nervous about. The princess, Elise, is definitely beautiful, seems kind and polite, has a gentle smile on her face. If anything it makes Aether's heart sink more in his chest. They are both forced into a loveless marriage and the more the prince talks to his future bride, the more he feels guilt.

She deserves someone who could love her and that will never be him. He's too aware of his own feelings, even if he's trying to pretend otherwise. He fakes smiles as they walk towards the dining room for the dinner. Their parents seem to be in great mood, talking over the marriage.

...And the prince finds himself looking away, his gaze drifting to the servants, knights.

Ah. Of course. Even now he's looking for his knight.]

Edited 2022-04-29 23:43 (UTC)

[Aether's eyes won't find his knight. Childe is visibly absent from the dinner, before the court takes their seats at the table. What's strange however, is that there seems to be an extra seat that had been set up, next to Aether, that no one is currently sitting in. Was one more supposed to show up? Perhaps Aether's sister, Lumine, who is supposed to be out on diplomatic duties currently?

The dinner begins, and it's not long after it starts that a certain ginger-haired knight makes his way into the dining room. He strides past the guard that lines the walls, earning glares from each and every single one of them. They instinctively know what Childe is about to do, though the bride's family do not.

And that extra seat? He slides right into it like he belongs there.]

My apologies for being late, Prince Aether. Is this the lucky bride to be?

[He nods respectfully towards Elise, charm plastered all over his face.]

[Upon spotting the empty additional seat, Aether wonders if someone made a mistake during preparations and the open spot is supposed to be for Lumine. His eyes widen when suddenly his knight shows up, casually joining them for the dinner, settling right by the prince's side. The king straightens his back, but no one seems to be keen on spoiling the good mood, so they ignore Childe's presence for the time being.

Aether can already sense things will get messy at some point. He gives Childe a small glare in a warning, before turning back to the very confused princess. She blinks a few times, before smiling sweetly.]

Yes, this is Princess Elise. [He introduces her and she gives a polite bow with a her head. Her cheeks are bright with blush.]

It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Sir... [She trails off, waiting for the man to introduce himself. Clearly, she is completely unaware who Childe is and why he's allowed so close.]

[He returns Aether's glare with an innocent smile, as if he were ever capable of such a trait.]

Childe, [He quickly answers the princess, bowing his head towards her with respect, keeping the sweetest smile on his features. He will fail to mention his relation to Aether- on purpose.] It is a pleasure and an honor to finally meet you. I've heard much about you before your arrival, and I hope that you find your time here acceptable. Let me know if he gives you any trouble, princess.

[He says with a wink, cheerful and full of chaos beneath the surface. There was no way he wasn't going to be front and center during this dinner, as if this is the only way he could think of to deal with the situation without destroying something somewhere else in the castle. Besides, he likes it.

So he's going to make sure he'll make the most of it tonight.]

[Childe really allows himself too much and Aether knows that, yet he does nothing to stop him. The dinner is supposed to be nice and peaceful, so as long as the knight stays in his place and doesn't cause trouble, it should be fine.

...Who is Aether even kidding? This man desires chaos more than anything else in the world.

Thanks to Childe's winks and charming words, the princess blushes, mumbles a soft "o-of course" and returns to her meal. At this very same time, the king stands up, expecting attention from everyone gathered.]

Princess Elise and you, my dear son. We are immensely happy that the two of you will marry and bring splendour and peace to this land. You are perfect for each other, both so kind and hard-working. I know you will do well. [The king looks to Elise's father and the other nods in agreement, proud look on his face. The princess' mother smiles kindly at her daughter as Elise herself blushes intensely, hiding her own gaze.

Aether tries to force a polite smile, but he wonders if it's obvious that he's not looking forward to this marriage. The king doesn't seem to notice - or pay him any mind - he decides that they can now continue on with the dinner and he goes back to talking with Elise's father. It's most likely nothing more but talks about politics and how the marriage will affect the two kingdoms.]

[There's a loud rapping of a piece of silverware on a glass.

The sound is coming from Childe, cheerfully hitting the glass over and over, to get everyone's attention. Heads snap in his direction, some dreading what the knight is about to do or say. The bride's family of course, still oblivious, are confused as to what is happening here, whispers being shared among them. He can feel all eyes fall on him, and it only serves to make his smile even wider.

You are perfect for each other.

No, they're not. How can he say that when they've never even met each other. Aether doesn't want this, he knows it. Elise seems like such a nice girl. Does she want this? Probably not, he's betting on it. Though Childe's reason for his behavior is purely selfish, he doesn't see how it can't benefit the princess as well.]

Ahem, [he begins, now that he's got everyone's attention,] allow me to say a few words before we all settle into our prescribed congratulatory exchanges and spurious relations. It is truly an honor to have the princess and her family with us tonight on such a joyous occasion. In fact, I hope you allow me he privilege of ensuring their safety to me during this visit- it is, of course, my top priority to see that everything goes well.

[His eyes flash, smiling to the king as well to Elise's father.]

I could truly not be happier for the two of you, [he says as he turns to speak to the forced couple,] and I hope the two of you spend a good amount of time pondering your futures and what the coming years will bring.

[He throws a hand around Aether's shoulder, looking like he's being playful, a giant grin on his face. His free hand reaches down for his goblet, lifting it up.]

After all, the young prince here has a long life ahead of him! So a toast! To the long and promising years ahead of to these two lovely souls, may both our lands prosper forever!

Edited 2022-05-05 16:01 (UTC)

[The king doesn't look happy when Childe so casually points out the fake words and relations that exist only for the benefit of the countries involved. An awkward silence falls over everyone after the toast is offered by the knight. Aether knows all too well how much Childe hates this entire situation and that this is only the beginning. Elise and her family seem confused, Aether's father just continues to stare coldly.

Eventually, a long sigh breaks the silence as Aether abruptly takes a hold of his own goblet and stands up (maybe also to escape Childe's hold; his heart can't take too much of the other's man physical contact, his warmth).

Aether turns to the princess and offers his hand to her.]

Let's have a toast. [He repeats his knight's words. The princess blinks, looks to Childe, then back to her promised prince and she smiles bright standing up as well.

The atmosphere in the room changes, like a relief washing over all gathered. The drinks are had and the dinner can continue.]

Aether, why don't you show the princess around? [The king offers once the dinner is near its end.] Our gardens are in full bloom now. Hopefully, they will be to your liking, princess.

[Elise smiles kindly and nods. She's definitely looking forward to seeing the flowers. The king seems pleased with that, but his expression changes completely when he looks to the knight.]

Childe, I trust that you will keep them happy and safe, as you claimed you would. [There's an underlying warning in that tone. The king is not stupid, he knows the knight is scheming. Aether suspects that if something goes wrong, his father won't hesitate to have Childe's head.]

[He joins Aether in standing, that smile never leaving his face for a second. He looks around the entire room, appearing quite pleased with himself, before toasting and drinking deeply from his glass. Of course, the rest of the dinner is wonderful, being able to sample from the food meant for the royal family. Childe does enjoy this part, chatting happily with Aether and Elise during the dinner.

The king's mood towards him doesn't spoil anything for the knight. When told that he was responsible to keep them safe, Childe nods back, placing a hand over his heart. Even through his chaotic scenes, he has done this job with a level of professionalism that no one can match. If there was anything the royal family could rely on, was that Childe would make sure the prince, and by extension now the princess, would be safe from any harm that might befall them.

Of course, that doesn't mean he isn't frequently on thin ice, like right now- the knight is also aware that he might lose his head should things take a turn for the worse. And that the king is aware that he might have his own ideas brewing in his head.]

I will, Your Highness.

[So he turns to the both of them, eyes bright.]

Shall we go? It truly is a picturesque scene, the gardens. The giant arch as you enter is as exquisite as the dinner we just indulged in. You'll also find that the long winding paths are littered with colors you couldn't imagine existed in nature by itself.

[Aether honestly would like for this entire visit to be over already, but when the time comes, he and Elise will have to marry and he dreads the chaos that Childe will bring on the wedding day. However, there's a part of him that finds it incredible that his knight would go to such ridiculous lengths to... do what exactly? Is it all just to get his way? Or does he really not want Aether to marry someone he doesn't even love?

The young prince doesn't get to ponder too much about it as the princess quickly grabs him by the arm, her eyes bright like the child's.]

I simple have to see it. Please, lead the way!

[Aether is silent for another second, before smiling and nodding.]

Let's go.

[He nods to Childe to follow and the three of them make their way towards the gardens. The flowers around them seem almost otherworldly. The royal gardener is taking excellent care of every plant in this vast area and it shows. The air is fresh and soothing, making Aether think that he really needed this. The silence is welcomed, too.

The princess quickly lets go of his arm to wander around the many bushes of roses, admiring the beautiful bloom. This gives Aether a moment to step closer to Childe and whisper.]

You really enjoy trouble, don't you?

[That's always something he's admired about Aether, the fact that he can ponder his knight's reasons and logic behind what he does and get it spot on when he considers it, whether he realizes how right he is or not. Not a lot of people have the skill to perceive him like that, making Childe appreciate it all the more. Because it's both, he wants his way and he doesn't want to see Aether unhappy in a marriage he doesn't want.

He is, after all, in love with his prince- a skill in self-awareness that would have made life a little easier for him if he lacked it. But who said life was easy, and that he wanted it to be so?

He turns to Aether as he's addressed, giving him a sly smile as he answers.]

I'll admit there's a certain allure to causing a commotion that stirs within me. After all, a dish without spices really isn't much of a dish at all, even if it still fulfills life's basic needs.

[He shrugs, still pleased with himself that he even got away with that little stunt back there.]

[Aether shakes his head, but instead of giving his knight a scolding look he snorts lightly. Childe is chaos incarnated so no matter what the prince says he won't stop him. Still...]

Be careful not to add too much spice to your dishes.

[Aether puts his hands on his hips, his gaze only quickly checking on the princess before it returns to Childe. Elise seems to be lost in the beauty of the garden, so the prince and his knight may allow themselves a moment to talk.]

My father wasn't thrilled with you, but I think the princess likes you.

[She seemed pretty happy chatting with both Childe and Aether during the dinner. It truly is a shame that they are forced into this marriage. Perhaps, with time they could become good friends.]

[Childe responds by shooting back a satisfied smile, setting his own arms akimbo to mirror the prince. Following Aether's eyes, he also gazes over towards Elise, noting how engrossed she is with the garden.]

I think so too. She's a nice girl, really. I actually wouldn't mind having her around, I'm sure she and I would get along splendidly. Hmmmm...

[An instantaneous thought, one that most people would just dismiss out of hand as something silly, something not worth pursuing. What if.]

Though, after talking to her all night, I think she'd really get along with my squire more than anyone. They have the same humor, though Luke does tend to take things a little more seriously. Her lightheartedness would be a good shake up for him, haha.

[As soon as the words are out of his mouth, he's decided. Yep. This is perfect.]

[If it was anyone else, Aether would think it's a silly remark, nothing more but a "what if" scenario. But this is Childe. The prince throws him a baffled look and is very close to letting a sharp "What?" but he thankfully stops himself from doing so. Instead, he hisses to his knight, turning to him completely.]

...You can't be serious. You know that this won't work - she will never be able to marry him.

[That's exactly the part of the problem. Royals marry other royals and love has nothing to do with it. Marriage is like a contract between two countries, serving a diplomatic role. Even if Elise and Luke would get close to one another and love would bloom between them it would be as hopeless as the one that Aether harbours for his knight--

He suddenly looks away, face a bit flushed, when he realizes that he admitted his own feelings to himself.]

...I don't want anyone else to suffer like this.

[But won't she hurt either way? Aether will never give her love that she deserves.]

Surely you understand how royalty really works behind the scenes, Prince.

[He gets it, the pain of not being able to be with the one you love. He knows firsthand, after all, but does that really mean they can't be together? Childe laughs, positioning himself next to Aether to slide his hand behind his back, letting his hand rest on his waist as he pulls him into him. With both their backs to Elise now, he just smirks.]

All sorts of kings and queens have their own paramours they keep in the shadows. This could just be an open secret between the two of you. That is, if she is willing to participate as well.

[He smiles- it's that same cunning smile he flashes when he has a terrible idea, a faux innocence to it that has all the call signs of chaos in the crinkles at the corners of his mouth.]

[The touch against his back makes his body tremble as a shiver runs down his spine. The hand then slips to his waist and he's pulled close to Childe. Aether does nothing to stop any of this, breath catching in his throat. He even forgets about the princess's presence for the time being.

He tries to focus on the knight's words, but that makes him frown. He is very much aware that many kings and queens have their secret lovers, but is that even okay? In perfect world maybe he would be able to show his love without any restrains, he wouldn't want to hide anything.

But this is not a prefect world, neither for him nor for Elise.]

...You seem to awfully like this idea.

[He's not quite sure why Childe finds it so appealing.]

A fake marriage... That sounds so wrong. [He breathes those words out, almost like a sigh. On the other hand, he can see the merit in it. He can see that if Elise would agree to this, if she'd find love in arms of someone else, then perhaps everybody would be happy in the end. Even if they all would have to hide it for the rest of their lives and pretend that they're happy with each other.]

You were the one who insisted that this had to happen and that nothing could possibly change it, [he reminds the prince, still smirking.

Childe is drinking in the fact that he can be so close, that Aether doesn't push him away even in front of the princess. He doesn't even know what she's doing, but a part of him hopes she's turned to see the two men being so close with each other. Wouldn't that be a sight, he thinks, laughing inwardly at the idea of the look on her face once she spots them.

But, he continues on:]

Now, perhaps when you are king someday, you won't force your own children into marriages simply for power. But, as of right now, the fact still remains that your father expects you to marry her. So, why not entertain this? Besides.

[His smug smile gets even wider.]

Of course I like this idea. It was, after all, my idea.

[Childe is right about that part. If Aether becomes the king, then he could change the law and maybe even free them all from this fate, allowing everyone to marry whoever they wish. Maybe there would be some who opposed him, but with Childe by his side, he isn't concerned about that part at all.

Instead, he gives his knight a very critical look, noticing how smug he seems about all of this.]

And knowing you, you won't keep this a secret. [Pointing that out makes Aether finally acknowledge the closeness they share and the fact that the princess can turn any moment now to see them together like this.

...And just as if on cue, a muffled sequel rings behind their back. The prince quickly steps away, his eyes terrified when he faces Elise. The princess' face is bright red and she has hands over her mouth, but her eyes don't show any distaste or anger for what she has witnessed. In fact, there seem to be something akin to sparkles in her gaze.

Aether stares at her completed confused.]

Er... I-I can explain...? [He offers, but before he manages to collect himself the princess steps close to him grabbing his hand, then grabbing Childe's and linking their hands together.]

Ah, I was suspecting something...! [A shy smile spreads on her face and again, she seems to brim with almost childish excitement.] Two souls longing for one another, yet unable to give in to their feelings! Oh, forbidden love! How very tragic and how very beautiful!

[At this point Aether is completely unsure what is even happening here. He can only stare at his future bride as she seems very enthusiastic about the prince and knight's relationship.]

Please, don't worry! If there is anything I can do to help you, I will do my best! [Her eyes sparkle while face still burns bright.]

[Childe is just about to give Aether some real guff for taking so long in accepting the fact that he too, is in love with him. That part of why this was all so terrible was because they couldn't be together, not with Aether denying his own feelings. But his tongue is silenced by a squeal behind them, Aether suddenly decoupling from his side to turn sharply towards the sound.

Elise, just standing there and being their number one fan. Wow. He can hardly believe it. He knew he liked her for a reason. He supposes that he didn't exactly hide his feelings for Aether, as he's never been one to hold back about how he's feeling in any moment unless it's absolutely necessary. And, well, it didn't feel necessary during dinner.

But it's so unbelievably hard to keep himself from bursting out laughing, linking his fingers with Aether's as Elise makes them hold each other's hands. Incredible. Astounding. Childe could not of asked for better.]

Your support is beyond appreciated. I'm humbled that you would deem this acceptable.

[Elise, you are the best.]

Really, you should allow us to help you, Princess. [What perfect timing.] If you'll allow, there's actually someone I'd like you to meet. He's a very sweet person, dedicated and true. I really think the two of you will hit it off quite well. How does a lunch date tomorrow sound? It would be a great excuse to get together while still keeping this veil of secrecy around us. I'll set it up, and we can all enjoy a nice day out.

[Childe hopes to appeal to Elise's adventurous, wild side- girls like her always have their own little eccentricities.]

[As their fingers are laced together, Aether blushes bright. He's never thought that something like this would be actually possible and the princess's joy over the entire affair adds up to his embarrassment. Meanwhile, Childe seems pleased, as everything is going just how he wanted. He offers Elise a date with Luke and the girl seems completely lost at first. She takes a step back, hands now over her mouth again.]

Oh, goodness, I-I... [It clearly is very sudden to her and she looks away for a moment, swaying lightly in her place as if carried away with her emotions. She's obviously very eager, but she takes a moment to think about it. Eventually her hands move to her cheeks, but she's smiling.]

Sir Childe, you're not only charming but also so considerate. I see the prince is in good hands. [She giggles softly and Aether's face burns bright this time. It seems he's the only one in here that still has some doubts left, while the other two have fun.]

You... you're really okay with this? [He suddenly speaks up.] We'll still have to marry...

[There's a deep frown on his face, his voice is showing worry. The princess looks at him surprised, then, still embarrassed herself, she smiles kindly, her brows softly raised up.]

It's really okay. I'm happy I can help. And I... I knew you wouldn't love me.

[The last part is spoken quietly, but it still crushes his heart.]

Now, now...

[He can understand the uncertainty between the two royals. It's kind of sudden, isn't it? For Elise to find out the prince was in love with him and to know that she was always destined to marry to someone who could never truly love her back. Whether it be Aether or another prince in some other far off land.]

Let's look to the bright future, alright? Princess Elise. I can say with confidence that after tonight, having your presence here with us at the castle is going to brighten the lives of many. And even if the arrangement is less than ideal, don't we have fate to thank that it brought us all together anyhow?

[He holds his and Aether's interlocked hands up, smiling to the prince now.]

And you will bring a bright future to the land as well. Think of this as more of a partnership, working together to make the lives of your subjects far better than the day previous. And, in turn, all of us will be able to live our lives with those who care for us, whether we've met them yet or not.

[He winks at Elise. It'll work out, he promises.]

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