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

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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...]

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[Aether blinks in surprise when he's pulled close, but truth to be told - he missed this. He missed how warm and welcoming Childe's embrace is, so he's quick to relax and wrap his arms around the other. He does have a point anyway.]

Well... I can't argue with that.

[He nuzzles his head against the other, holding tighter.]

I've missed this, too.

[He breathes in and out, eyes closed as they both stay like this for another moment. It almost makes him wonder how he managed to survive without feeling his knight so close.]

[It's unfortunate that he can't stay this way with him forever, his head moving to hang over Aether's shoulder as he presses the side of it against the prince's head. It's as if he can feel some of the stresses of the last few weeks or so flood out of him, exhaling heavily as he reluctantly breaks from the embrace. It's alright, he's got the rest of the night yet.]

Come. I'd like to sit for a while, if you don't mind.

[Childe's hand slides into Aether's, tugging him along towards the bed, already thinking about changing his mind if he wants to lie down or sit. He only lets go of Aether once they get to the bed to remove his boots- but he looks like he's ready to relax, his mind feeling as if its wound far too tightly for his liking.]

Have you been well? I know we haven't had much time for each other since the ball. I'll admit, I've been far busier than I anticipated.

[Aether can almost feel the stress emanating from his knight. Whatever was happening, it's been taking a toll on Childe. Worried, the prince starts running his hands up and down the other's back to relieve some of that stress.]

Of course. We can sit for as long as you like.

[He lets Childe lead him towards the bed and he's quick to take a seat beside him, still close, once the other settles. His hands find Childe's as Aether listens to his knight.]

I've been well. Everything... has bee very quiet recently. But I'm guessing the same can't be said for you.

[He doesn't hide concern from his face.]

[Though it's not as if he's been trying to hide it, he knows even if he had that Aether would see right through him and know that he was stressed. That the preparations asked of him went against every principle and moral he stood for, as strange and sometimes twisted as they could be. The knight's shoulders sag for a moment, hating the position he's been put in, but glad also for having someone to be able to vent his frustrations out with.

One that understands him better than anyone else, and one that he doesn't have to hide himself from.]

Haha, yes, it's been quite the opposite for me. The strings I've had to pull as part of the requests to set up the attempt on your father's life...it burns me deeper than I could ever describe. Every word I utter feels like treason.

[Childe's face scrunches up, trying to tell himself that all he does now will be undone by his own hand. That it's all for the safety of the king, and for Aether. He squeezes the prince's hand, letting a little more stress go with the action.]

[Aether understands that it must feel horrible to do these things and he feels anger arising inside him that the conspirators dare to play with his knight like this. He hopes they will be punished accordingly once they are caught.

The prince squeezes Childe's hands back, trying to reassure him.]

I know it must be very difficult for you... But I trust you. I know that you will teach them a lesson.

[He leans close, brushing a small kiss to his knight's cheek.]

And I'll be always by your side. If I can do anything to make you feel better and take that stress away, just tell me.

[A soft smile spreads across his face. It's not often that Childe is ever pushed to this point, where his confidence is tested to its limit and worry creeps in like it is now. But when it comes to scheming like this that he has no control over...it angers him. He can't face this kind of challenge head on, and he swears when this is over he'll make them pay for this.

Childe sighs, leaning into Aether, thankful for the comfort.]

Just be with me, for a while. That alone means more than you know.

[The knight buries his face into the crook of the prince's neck, planting soft kisses while he rests there. The solidness of his presence helps soothe Childe further. He is trying to forget about the current predicament they're in, at least for the moment, so anger doesn't overtake him when he thinks about it too much.

This little bit helps, and he's thankful for it.]

[The helplessness is weighting on both of them and the prince sighs softly wishing that he could find the culprits and bring them to justice this instant. They threaten his father's life, they try to manipulate him and now they make his dear knight feel so awful. It's truly unforgivable.

This moment, now that they're together is much needed for both of them. Aether wraps his arms around Childe and runs his hands in circles over his back, trying to comfort him. At the same time, he relaxes when he feels those soft kisses against his skin.]

I'll be with you for as long as you need it, not just for a while.

[He shifts to brush another kiss to his knight's cheek, before he relaxes against him again, head resting on Childe's shoulder.]

I'll always be here for you, anytime you need me.

[He needs a few minutes more resting like this.

Childe nuzzles his face into Aether's neck, taking deep breaths and breathing in his scent, the faint smell of lavender filling his nostrils. He finds it far easier to let his mind wander from thoughts of the tasks he had to complete, and Aether's words seem to have an ever more relaxing effect on him. The knight's shoulders relax, the kiss on his cheek leaving a tingling sensation that remains even after his head rests on his shoulder.]

Anytime?

[Because that time is definitely now, as Childe lifts his head from Aether's neck and greedily pushes his face into the prince's, nuzzling it up to capture his lips in a deep, needy kiss. He wants to forget about the day and drown himself in his lover, his mouth opening to let his tongue dance with Aether's, pressing his weight against him.

Maybe he was a little touch-starved too, but what does that matter now that he has Aether right here with him.]

[He lets a soft surprised sound when his mouth is captured so suddenly, but his lips part easily, allowing their tongues to meet. They both missed each other's presence and warmth, and Childe is not the only one who may be touch-staved here. Under the weight that is pressed against him, Aether lays down on the soft mattress and pulls his knight on top of him, holding him tight and close. To relax, to forget about the struggles. They both need this.

Aether gasps when the kiss ends, taking a few deep breathes before he finally looks up at the other and smiles.]

That's right... anytime. [He laughs, softly. A blush is bright on his cheeks and his loose, golden hair are splayed all around his head.

It doesn't take him long to lean up and pull his knight into another kiss as his hands move down to the other's hips and caress his sides with delicate fingertips.

Relax. I'm here for you, for as long as you need it.]

[Childe easily falls atop Aether, being pulled onto him as he deepens their kiss, melting as he lets go of the remaining stress and worry that plagues him. This is what he wanted this meeting to be, something that he could lose himself in, albeit brief in the span of things.

It makes him beyond happy to be able to gaze down at Aether this way, returning the gesture with a soft smile before he's brought back down into another kiss, hands soothing his nerves as they dance on his hips and sides. Childe can feel his body relax under Aether's soft touch, his own hands both cupping Aether's face as he kisses him slowly, each caress more mesmerizing and sweet.

It's hard to pull away, but he finally does, sighing as he catches his breath.]

If only you could stop time for me, among all the power you have as prince of this nation.

[Then he could spend as much time as he wanted with him without having to worry about obligation and duty.]

[There's a soft sound forming in the back of his throat, as he's enjoying every moment of their connection, every sweet affection. He sighs, content, when they part from the kiss, but it really is so difficult to stop. His hands continue to trail patterns into the other's sides, fingers sneaking softly under the fabric of his knight's shirt.]

I wish I could... I really am not that powerful.

[If he was, he would make the night last forever as they melt into one another, soaking in warmth and love.]

Sometimes I feel like I don't have much power at all...

[His words come quiet, but there's still a soft smile on his face. As long as he has enough of power to protect those he cares about, then he doesn't mind. As long as he can make his knight smile, then it's also enough.

...Right now, he can't achieve either of these things as long as the schemers are around, but at least he still has enough power to sooth Childe's nerves.]

[As he gazes down into Aether's eyes, he understands that his prince must feel so powerless right now in this situation, despite the smile he wears. He wishes it didn't have to be this way. So he leans down, pressing a soft kiss to Aether's lips, before rolling off of the prince to lie down at his side. Childe presses himself into Aether's side, letting an arm drape over his lover as he sighs with content.]

Well, you have enough to keep me here. Surely that should be enough for now.

[He nuzzles his head into him, much happier now in this position than he was before he'd come to see Aether.]

You know, [he muses,] now would be the perfect time to slip out of the castle. We could travel to the nearest village, and enjoy our night without the watchful eye of the knights.

[Having Childe so close is working wonders on Aether himself. The knight makes him feel calm and content, and his every little kiss and act of affection is bringing a smile to the prince's lips. Aether nuzzles right back into him, grasping the knight's hand and holding it close to his heart.]

You want us to run away together? [He asks, laughing softly.] That's a tempting idea.

[He wants to do it. He wants to be with Childe, he wants no one to disturb them.

Sneaking away into the night sounds like something they both really need now.]

Edited 2022-11-14 20:40 (UTC)

[The knight ponders on it for a few moments. He's so relaxed and comfortable right here in bed with Aether, but at the same time the idea of having a small adventure together into the night sounds like a lot of fun too. They wouldn't have to be their official selves, just two people enjoying themselves. That seems like an even rarer commodity than being able to sneak in and pour love and affection all over the prince.

Childe sits up, planting his hands behind him as he grins back to Aether. He's into this idea now. This would be fun.]

Why don't we? There's nothing stopping us.

[There's a mischievous glint in Childe's eyes; whatever they do, it'll be filled with something unknowable.]

Let's get dressed and go. Being cooped up here all the time just to enjoy each other's company isn't a life I want to lead.

[As Aether continues lying down, a chuckle escapes his lips.]

You're right... nothing is stopping us. And nothing will stop us.

[He pushes himself up into a sitting position, grinning back at Childe. That taste of freedom is something he can't say "no" to. Maybe his dear knight is a bad influence on him... or maybe it's Aether's dream of adventures that pushes him into this.

Regardless, he catches his lover hands then gives him a quick kiss on the mouth before pulling away.]

Let's meet in the stables. Nobody should be there at this hour.

[There will never be a time Childe doesn't appreciate how warmth spreads through him every time Aether kisses him, even if it's brief. And he's glad that he was able to talk the prince into his idea easily enough, nodding back with a bright smile on his face. He returns that kiss with one of his own, brief but deep, catching Aether's mouth with the entirety of his before he picks himself up off the bed.

Childe doesn't waste much time making himself decent again, also eagerly helping to get Aether together too so they can go out.]

I've heard there's quite the night life down the road a ways. There should be a performance we can catch, and there will be plenty to drink as well.

[He winks at Aether. It'll be a good time.]

[Aether smiles brightly at the kiss. No words can describe how much he's enjoying every time they share affections. And to break free and spend the time together in a place faraway from the castle? It's truly like a dream come true.

Aether turns his back to his knight, asking with gestures for help in braiding his long, golden hair.]

Just remember that at least one of us has to stay sober. [He reasons, trying to call for at least a bit of rationality in himself. If they overdo it with the drinks, they'll surely get in trouble.]

[He gets to work, taking Aether's hair in his hands and braiding it, enjoying the feel of how smooth and silky it feels between his fingers. It's easy for him to handle, having done this for his sister time and time again. Childe is gentle as he braids, careful to make sure that the hair is tight enough to stay and yet loose enough not to give him a headache later, humming to himself as he works.]

Haha, I'll make sure one of us doesn't drink too much then, my prince, [Childe replies thoughtfully. He knows even when he's shit faced drunk, he still has a level of responsibility to him- but only when it comes to making sure the prince is safe.]

But it wouldn't hurt for us to have a little, to relax our nerves a bit, wouldn't you say? The particular tavern I'm thinking of has a drink that would suit your tastes quite well, and mine too.

[He finishes braiding Aether's hair, tying it neatly on the end and admiring his work for a moment.]

Edited (whoops html) 2022-11-27 03:10 (UTC)

[He's sitting there perfectly still, enjoying the way Childe's fingers feel in his hair and the care that he puts into completing the braid.]

Hmm... You know that you have my full trust. [He reminds the other with a smile.] I'll be happy to try that drink that you speak of so highly.

[He turns his head just to flash a grin to his knight, before sitting straight again and waiting for the braid to be finished. The adventure is definitely calling to him and he can't wait for it. If he can't face the problems head on for the time being, he may as well focus on something more pleasant.

Once Childe is done, Aether runs his hand over the braid before turning to his knight again.]

Thank you... Do you need my help with anything?

[There's probably not much at the moment, but it won't hurt to ask!]

I do.

[The knight leans down one last time to capture Aether's lips with his, drinking the moment in before releasing his prince with a grin on his face. He wanted one last one before they left, knowing that he probably wouldn't be able to kiss Aether much once they leave the safety of his private chambers.]

There, all better. Now let me slip my boots on and we'll be on our way. The moon is out tonight, so there should be no problems getting to town.

[He turns to put said boots on, before going to the door and peeking outside.]

Seems no one is out there. I'll go ahead to the stables and wait for you there. Don't keep me waiting.

[The kiss surprises him for just a moment, before he lets out a muffled laugh and easily melts into the affection. If his knight wishes more kisses, then he won't say no to that. In fact, he'll be happy to grant him as many as he desires. It's true that once they set out they won't be able to share many moments like this.]

I'll try to find something that won't make me stand out.

[He's still only in his sleeping clothes now, but he quickly searches his wardrobe for a plain shirt and a pair of pants.]

Go, we'll meet soon!

[He smiles, only taking a glance at his knight, before continuing his search for proper clothing. He doesn't want to waste time.

Thankfully, he manages to get just what he needs fast. The clothing looks plain, even if the fabric is much softer than anything common folk would wear. Aether puts a cape on and hides his face under the hood as he slips towards the stables and meets up with Childe. The thrill of adventure feels amazing.]

[Childe nods, taking his leave out of the chamber while Aether dresses himself. It's good that he goes ahead first, it'll give him some time to make sure the stable is clear and that they aren't seen leaving. The knight makes his way down there, preparing both their horses to make sure they can leave immediately before anyone realizes they've snuck out of the castle.

He catches sight of Aether approaching, recognizing the cape he's chosen to hide himself in only because he's seen it on more than one occasion. Childe's own cape hides his face, but it's nearly impossible not to make out the orange locks of hair that poke out from the top of his head in the front. The curse of having such a distinct hair color. He gestures silently at Aether, bringing both of their horses forward so they can go.]

Come, I've made sure that no one would be around to see us leave. Let's make haste before this privileged time comes to an end.

[He hands the reigns of Aether's horse to him, while swinging up on top of his own.]

The name of the bar is called Legend's End. I've been there a few times now. Try to keep up!

[He turns his horse to begin galloping towards the small village in question, the night air crisp on his face as the stars and moon show the path there.]

[The young prince gives a firm nod, then gets up on his horse and soon both him and Childe are galloping away from the castle. Aether's heart is beating fast, but there's also a bright smile on his face. The night air feels so good, the moon and stars are lighting their path, and the place that they're going to visit is one big mystery to Aether.

It feels like a new path has just opened.]

I can't wait!

[He laughs once they're far from the castle walls and soon a small village can be seen in the distance.]

[It's a short ride there, and he knows the terrain like the back of his hand on the way. Soon, the light from lanterns hung from posts and from doorways light their path, trotting into the village towards the bar he's so familiar with. There's a small place to tie the horses up, and Childe jumps down to tie his and the prince's to the long wooden bar outside.]

Here we are. It's a lot bigger on the inside, and just my kind of place.

[When they enter through the doors to the tavern, the heavy smell of alcohol hits his nostrils along with the sound of chatter between everyone inside. It's a lively night, and he's glad to see it- it's a prime place to cause a little stir...

Ah, but he may have to hold himself back now, and begins to lead Aether right to the bar so they can order their drinks, not really caring if anyone recognizes them. In fact, if they got attention, then who knows what might happen.

Could be...fun.]

[The young prince's eyes shine as he's led to the tavern. No one ever allowed him to visit places like these, so he's looking around both excited and nervous. He makes sure the hood is covering his face, as he doesn't want to get into any trouble, but at the same time he's growing more and more aware that Childe may be looking for the opposite.

As they approach the bar, Aether grabs his knight's hand, before whispering to him:]

...Let's be careful when we're here, okay? [He's starting to get a little worried, but then again, he trusts his knight. Surely, Childe wouldn't get them into any sort of danger, especially now when they have conspirators plotting against the king... right?] So, um... what should I order?

[He tries to smile.]

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