Childe "I Can Make Her Worse" Tartaglia (
monoceroscaeli) wrote in
insurmountable2022-03-26 11:46 pm
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Entry tags:
everybody's challenge turning into mine / and overcame adversity
[He knows he's going to get scolded by Prince Aether. He knows and he doesn't really care, that other knight really had it coming.
He'd had a little spat with one of the other knights in the keep, a little disagreement over dinner, at least that's what Childe would have called it. In reality, he'd started the fight, running his mouth and delighting at the visceral anger he'd caused the other knight. A few words were exchanged, a bone from a finished chicken wing was flung at the other, and that's all it took before he was showing off his martial prowess in front of the rest of the keep. The guy got one good blow in before he'd beaten him unconscious, having to be pulled off of him before he went too far. No alcohol needed for that mess of course, since he reveled in making scenes like that.
And he never regretted it, at least when it came to his reputation. Which, of course, wasn't great. He'd always had a chaotic side and people steered clear of him because of it. But those people really aren't the kind he'd hang out with anyhow. He had his own agenda, and if he's being honest, no one could keep up with him.
He's trying to get back to his own quarters now, a nasty cut right across his eyebrow where he'd gotten punched. He swears the other must of had a ring on or something, a knuckle shouldn't of made a cut that big. But it hurt, and he has to constantly wipe the blood away or else it would trickle down into his eye. He's a bit preoccupied with making sure he can see that he doesn't see Prince Aether round the corner and begin to walk towards him.
When he removes his hand from his face, there's blood all over it, and still some that bubbles up and pools in his eyebrow again.
That's when he spots the other. Drat, he's in for it now...]
He'd had a little spat with one of the other knights in the keep, a little disagreement over dinner, at least that's what Childe would have called it. In reality, he'd started the fight, running his mouth and delighting at the visceral anger he'd caused the other knight. A few words were exchanged, a bone from a finished chicken wing was flung at the other, and that's all it took before he was showing off his martial prowess in front of the rest of the keep. The guy got one good blow in before he'd beaten him unconscious, having to be pulled off of him before he went too far. No alcohol needed for that mess of course, since he reveled in making scenes like that.
And he never regretted it, at least when it came to his reputation. Which, of course, wasn't great. He'd always had a chaotic side and people steered clear of him because of it. But those people really aren't the kind he'd hang out with anyhow. He had his own agenda, and if he's being honest, no one could keep up with him.
He's trying to get back to his own quarters now, a nasty cut right across his eyebrow where he'd gotten punched. He swears the other must of had a ring on or something, a knuckle shouldn't of made a cut that big. But it hurt, and he has to constantly wipe the blood away or else it would trickle down into his eye. He's a bit preoccupied with making sure he can see that he doesn't see Prince Aether round the corner and begin to walk towards him.
When he removes his hand from his face, there's blood all over it, and still some that bubbles up and pools in his eyebrow again.
That's when he spots the other. Drat, he's in for it now...]
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Y-yes!
[And she shyly peeks at Luke, offering her hand to him.
Once they leave to prepare for the ride, Aether steps closer to his knight, giving him a look.]
You didn't beat up some gods out there to make sure everything goes your way?
[He still can't believe how well this is going. Aether motions for Childe to follow as they too need to get their horses and prepare.]
Well, let's go. It's been a while since the last time we could go horse riding.
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When the coast is clear as they arrive in front of the two stables where their horses reside, he quickly presses a kiss to Aether's lips before leading his horse out to saddle it. He will just do that without giving Aether much time to react, and when he does, Childe is sure it'll be cute.]
I can't say I don't miss the feeling of the breeze whipping past me on a good ride, [he says with nostalgia, securing the saddle before he steps up onto his horse.]
This time seems more special now, doesn't it? I must say, I feel a little light just considering it.
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...You just wait. The prince will get you back for all of this.
Aether pouts for a moment, but his expression changes eventually, when he hears the sentimental tone of his knight's voice. He's right. It's very special... and he hopes they'll be able to share many more special moments like this.]
I'm not surprised. We're... [He gets closer, giving Childe's horse a gentle pat.] We're finally free to be with one another.
[And Aether doesn't have a reason to lie to himself anymore. It's truly relieving.]
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To think how upset he had been when he first heard that Elise was coming to meet her husband to be, only now for the entire situation to be completely reversed. The woman really was a blessing in disguise, Childe realizes now, and he'll make sure that he doesn't take a single moment for granted.]
Let's meet up with the other two. I'm sure they think we're being inappropriate in here by now, haha.
[And to make sure the people who couldn't know don't find out. He looks out the doors to the stable, not seeing anyone until he sees the faint flash of brown as Luke and Elise come into view.]
Aether, [he says fondly, as the prince takes care of his horse,] for the first time, I feel truly happy.
[Outside of a fierce battle, that is.]
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Once he readies his horse he hears the knight speak again. Aether turns to him, eyes shining a little, softening as his heart swells in his chest.]
...Me too. [He answers softly. His gaze is warm and loving.] But this is only the beginning. I'll make sure... to make you even happier.
[There's a grin forming on his face and Aether swiftly gets on his horse.]
And... I think this is the first time you called me just by my name. [It's a new, but nice feeling. He hopes that one day they can both forget their place in the world, stop being the prince and the knight and be just two people in love with one another.
With that thought Aether urges his horse to leave the stable and join with Elise and Luke who wait for them outside.]
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He's glad. He really is.
Childe rides out shortly to meet them, his face now plastered with that same cheery look he always wears, but creases around his mouth give away that he's feeling even better than usual.]
What a beautiful day! Shall be on our way then? The trail that leads into the deeper ends of the forest have some wonderful foliage in the spring. Prince, should we take them to see the gigantic willow tree that hides deep within? It's always a sight to behold.
[He turns his horse in that direction, ready to set out.]
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Of course! We have to make the best of this beautiful day!
[And he gently motions for Luke and the princess to follow, as Aether joins Childe for the way ahead.
Elise seems a little uncertain when the horse begins to move, but she's quick to give Luke an encouraging smile. It then turns shy, they're so close, after all. What would her father say if he saw this? Ah, how exciting!
Meanwhile, Aether is taking a glance at them to check if everything is going well, before speeding ahead. The wind feels so good and they get further and further away from the castle walls. It's a rare moment when he can actually taste the freedom itself.]
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[He spurs his horse on to catch up with the prince as they gallop away from the castle, the wind whipping his long ginger hair back as they go. The wind feels good on his face, and he can tell that Aether is having a great time as well. At first, Childe is checking that Luke and Elise are keeping with them, but after a while, he stops. He trusts his squire, and he doesn't want Aether to leave him in the dust.]
Prince! A race to the willow tree sounds like the competition we need to really make this a grand day, haha!!!
[He manages to ride alongside Aether, grinning like the devil himself.]
You won't back down from this challenge, will you? I'll understand if you don't feel that you're up to it!
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Have I ever said no to a challenge? I hope you're ready to be left behind!
[Aether steals one last glance at Elise and Luke, before letting go of everything and spurring his horse forward. It races as fast as possible and the prince's heart seems to speed up as well, as if letting itself be carried by the wind. Aether grins even more, soft laugh escaping him. It's not about who wins or loses (even though he does want to win this one), but the idea that they are free to do what they want is making him drunk with happiness.
Who would've thought that fate can turn so quickly?
Aether takes a deep breath, then leans forward. He has a race to win and he's going to be serious about it. After all, Childe wouldn't be satisfied if they both don't give it their all.]
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It felt great. This feels great. He couldn't be happier.
It's not long before the willow comes into view, Childe trying to urge his horse go to a little faster, to win this race. But Aether's lighter frame suits him much better for races than Childe's taller frame, and Aether reaches the tree first with the knight hot on his heels.]
Bested me again...
[But he doesn't look unhappy about it at all. If anything, he looks like he had an incredible time, his face bright despite his loss.]
I'm starting to wonder at this point if I need to shave some weight off if I'm to beat you, haha.
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Hm, I don't think you should. You're perfect the way you are now.
[A soft snicker follows, but there is no lie in the prince's words. He really thinks Childe is perfect the way he looks right now and he wouldn't change anything.
With a triumphant smile still on his face, Aether leans towards his knight.]
I think I deserve some kind of reward for my victory.
[He's mostly just joking.]
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Special, he thinks, when it comes from Aether.]
Oh ho, I don't remember agreeing to a prize...
[He smirks, moving his horse in such a way where they stand side by side, close enough that Childe could easily reach out from.]
But since you deem it so, who am I to refuse?
[He reaches out, to take Aether's hand from the reigns of his horse and place it in his own.]
Why don't you join me under the willow tree? I think I can give you your reward there.
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As Childe takes his hand Aether flashes him another grin, heart fluttering in his chest.]
I shall gladly join you then. Should we leave the horses here for a moment? I think they could use some rest after that little race.
[The wind blows through the leaves and Aether's hand squeezes Childe's. Just for this moment, they're free to do what they want and even if Elise and Luke find them here, they will surely know to give them some privacy.]
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[Dismounting, he makes his way over to the giant tree that drapes down in front of them. The branches hang so low that he has to push them aside to get to the base, a curtain of white draping over much of the tree. Even if Elise and Luke finally catch up, he figures this will give them some modicum of privacy. Not only that, but it's romantic, he thinks. A stream winds its way behind the tree, and Childe couldn't ask for a better backdrop.
He pushes the branches to the side to let Aether through, following the prince inside before he presses himself to him, not wasting any time.]
Is this what you wanted? [His head leans in, hand cupping Aether's cheek.] I can give you a different prize, if you'd like...
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A peaceful, content smile spreads on Aether's face as Childe presses close to him, his hand so warm against the prince's cheek.
Aether doesn't respond, only smiles and leans up, hands wrapping around his lover's neck, lips brushing against lips tenderly.]
It's perfect. [He murmurs pulling ever so slightly away, before losing himself into another kiss.
In this very moment everything is perfect. It's everything he's ever wanted; holding his knight close, letting him know how loved he is.
And to think that a perfect moment like this can be real.]
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He's still in a daze when the kiss breaks, able to taste the faint flavors of tea that's left on the prince's tongue from their lunch, his eyes slowly opening to gaze back down at Aether.
That really happened, and Childe can barely hear the sounds of horse hooves coming towards them. He ignores it, thinking it's Luke and Elise finally joining them, pressing another kiss to Aether's forehead while wearing a love drunk smile across his features.]
Seems they've finally arrived... [He says dreamily, not knowing that there are not one set of hooves he's hearing, but two...]
Prince Aether! Childe! Are either of you here?
[Elise's father's voice rings out around the willow tree. That...is not Luke or Elise.]
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He too ignores the sounds of hooves thinking it's Luke and Elise's horse. There's no need to hurry, surely, they can share another kiss and spent a few more moments in each other's arms before setting off again--
The dream is cut short as the voice calls out to them. Aether immediately backs away, alarmed.]
Yes, we're here!
[Maybe he calls prematurely. He's not sure if he can go to them like this - maybe his face is all red and the beating of his heart too loud to appear calm and collected. The last thing Aether wants now is to be found out.
What was the king and Elise's father doing here anyway?
The prince reveals himself from the curtains of branches and faces his father.]
Did something happen?
[The king gives him a critical look, but even if he notices something off about Aether's appearance he doesn't address it.]
Since the weather is so beautiful today we decided to go hunting. As we were passing by, we noticed your and Childe's horses... Weren't you supposed to be here with Princess Elise?
[Aether forces a smile.]
We went ahead... she is to join us soon.
[Even if the king doesn't know about the prince and the knight's romance, it still looks bad that Aether has left his future bride behind.]
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After all, if he messes up, he could die. It's that easy.
The knight tries to fight down the blush across his face, purposely making some shuffling noises near the tree to make it seem like he's doing something before he appears from behind the curtain.]
You can place that blame on me, Your Highness, [Childe says, knowing his face must surely still be red.] I challenged Aether to a race here, so Elise is safely with Luke. I trust no one more than him to take up such a task, and I suppose it's a good time to tell you both.
[He clears his throat, cursing the fact that he's such a terrible actor sometimes...]
I've been training Luke diligently to become Elise's personal knight, farther down the line. I've taught him everything I know, and you can expect the same results from him as you do of me. Today felt like a good, safe trial for such an occasion. Does that please you, Your Highness?
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Aether takes a step closer, hand placed over his heart.]
I believe this is an excellent idea. Princess Elise deserves only the best and I wish for her to be always safe, even if I am not around.
[Elise's father nods slightly, clearly pleased with that suggestion, but the king still remains silent. It takes an extra moment for him to speak.]
The princess' safety is of utmost importance to me as well. However, I want to hear her own opinion on this matter.
[He glances at his son, as if challenging his intentions. Aether curses in his mind, but tries to stay calm. Elise is on their side and the king likely thinks that she has no idea about anything and would find it suspicious herself if the situation was explained to her.]
We'll wait here for her arrival.
[This is not going well.]
In that case, we will go and inform her. Perhaps she has stopped somewhere on the track and is admiring the flowers.
[The king gives a small notion of the hand as if in permission and with that out of the way, Aether gestures to Childe so they would both get on the horses and look for the missing princess.
Aether only prays in his mind that they would find her soon.]
no subject
You can eat later, we've got an emergency...
[Stepping up onto his horse, he waits for Aether to join him before he takes off. It's fine. They'll find them, brief them on the way back, and go from there. It's fine.
It's fine.]
Do you remember where we lost them?
[He asks Aether, sounding a little frantic.]
The last I remember was right before we took off for our race. And, if I recall, Luke doesn't know these grounds as well as the two of us. They may be lost.
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I think it was not that far away from the castle... We probably should just turn back and see if we can find them along the way.
[He takes a glance at the ground, before focusing on the path ahead.]
If we don't find them then we'll have to look for any tracks.
[He is praying to all the gods willing to listen that they find those two soon.]
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[The determination in his voice is unwavering, because they'll find them no matter what. They have to. Childe spurs his horse on, galloping as fast as it can back towards the castle. His eyes scan the treeline, and even into the woods themselves...they couldn't of gotten far.]
There!
[He spots their horse, far off the trail that leads to the willow tree. But where are they?]
Oh no...prince, tell me you're not seeing what I'm seeing...
[No where. Not a speck of them to be found.]
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Don't worry, they couldn't go too far! [Hopefully.
Aether takes a frantic glance around, then tries to follow the tracks.]
It... looks like they went this way!
[And off they go, searching for their two lost companions. But why did those two wander off? Did they want to give the prince and his knight some time for themselves?
Aether suddenly stops in his tracks, his eyes wide, before he covers them and turns away. His face is bright red.]
I-I... found them...
[Elise and Luke seem to be getting along really well when Aether spots them... They are lost in a passionate kiss, embracing each other closely. Just how on earth is he supposed to interrupt them now?]
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What a bright shade of red...]
You did? Where-
[He finally steps forward enough to get the right angle to see Luke and Elise, in a tight liplock, and even Childe's face burns a bright red as he turns with his prince.]
I'll admit, I didn't think they'd take to each other that quickly. Uhh...
[What are they supposed to do? They have to go, the king is waiting.]
Let's go together. Wait, that will probably just embarrass them more...I'll do it. Luke isn't the type to jump headfirst into things like this, so I wonder if the princess's passion overtook him...he will be less mortified if I catch him than if the prince does. As for Elise...
[He looks to Aether first, before he goes. He has no idea how she'll react, will Aether have an idea???]
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I don't know how she'll react... Good luck...
[He watches Childe go, while trying not to focus on Elise and Luke. Thankfully, by the time the knight gets closer, the pair pulls away from the kiss. The princess is wearing a loving, dreamy look on her face, her cheeks bright red. She's smiling in this silly love-drunk way that makes her even more charming than usual.
But she is also the first to notice that the two of them are being approached. A sharp gasp escapes her lips when she spots Childe.]
S-sir Childe! W-what...? Didn't you go ahead with the prince?
[Her hands cover her cheeks now, eyes try to look everywhere but Childe or Luke.]
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