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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[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.]

[Childe only flashes a grin back at Aether, because being careful to him has a totally different definition than what the prince has. As they approach the bar, he taps his chin a few times. A drink for the prince...]

That's right, you don't drink a whole lot, do you? I think I've got just the thing for you.

[He turns to the bartender, who's just come over from serving a few other louder patron. He recognizes the orange hair sticking out from under the hood, giving Childe a careful look.]

You got a lot of nerve showing up here again so soon.

Come now, [he replies,] I'm just here to show my friend a good time. I'm starting him out easy tonight. [He shoots a wink at the bartender, because easy has a lot of different connotations here.] Think you can make something as close to spodi as you can? The usual for me.

[The bartender scoffs at Childe, turning to make the drinks.]

Don't treat my bar like it's your own personal party. Besides, he's still going to be able to taste the alcohol.

[Turning back around, he gives Aether a large mug, the liquid red inside of it. It smells of fruit and nothing else.]

Careful, he's trying to kill you with that.

[Childe looks mock offended as the bartender slides him his own drink.]

C'mon, he'll be fine. I can drink several of those without repercussions.

[Bartender trying to ruin their fun, gosh.]

[The moment the bartender recognizes Childe, Aether's eyes narrow. The exchange that follows does nothing to alleviate the prince's worries. If anything, he's eyeing the drink with suspicion, before leaning closer to his knight to whisper:]

Is this really safe for me to drink? And what have you done in this place before?

[Surely, it must have been nothing good if Childe is already so infamous. Aether can only imagine a drunker brawl has happened or something of that sorts.

...Which would also mean that there's a possibility someone else will recognize the knight and won't like him showing up here.

The prince sighs. He really can't relax.]

[He waves off the concern that Aether expresses. If they let worries get in the way of their nice night out, then it'll be ruined.]

I might of gotten into a few brawls or two here. It's not that big of a deal, everyone went home at the end of the night.

[Because they booked it before they could get hauled in, but he's not saying that.]

Take a sip. That's not a drink the usually serve at bars, but if he made it right it should taste mostly of just fruit punch. It just hasn't had a whole day to sit, if it were made correctly. Go on, it isn't going to kill you, no matter what the bartender says.

Why am I even surprised...

[He shakes his head, then stares a little more at the drink before taking a sip. It has a very fruity taste.]

It's... really not bad. [He takes another careful sip.] So how often do you go to bars like this to start fights?

[You have to get your fights somewhere, Childe.]

[Called out. Childe only grins back at Aether, not ashamed of the fact that sometimes he'll find a little flame to ignite after people are a few beers in or so. He has fun, and he's never lost, so it always ends up in a nice night...for him.]

You wound me Aether. Sometimes, it's the other party who starts the fight with me.

[Sort of. He'll just instigate it even more if he sees the opportunity. He takes a drink of his own cup, satisfied with it- it's exactly what he wanted.]

[Aether snickers, before taking another sip.]

And you're all too happy to fight them. I know you.

[He takes a look around the bar. This is the first time he gets to see how people spent their time outside the castle walls. They all seem so... free.]

At least you don't have to get bored at the castle.

[Childe looks back at the prince, his expression still happy and arrogant as it always is, but there's a modicum of empathy he feels for Aether even if it doesn't show. The life he lives doesn't allow him to do things like this regularly, if hardly at all. Being cooped inside of the castle is hardly a life the knight is interested in living, and he understands the prince's perspective.]

It's true, I do have avenues of entertainment I can pursue outside of the castle. And you know...

[He leans in smirking.]

...you could too, if you'd like to come with me.

[His response to that smirk is a grin of his own. His eyelids drop slightly as he leans closer as well.]

But I already went with you, so where else are you planning to take me?

[They probably shouldn't get too crazy considering the looming threat, but the prince doesn't want to think about that. Both he and his knight need to unwind from the stress and truth to be told, he's all too happy to follow Childe if only to make sure his knight can forget about worries.

So let them both be reckless tonight.]

[That earns a mischievous look back from the knight, taking a deep drag from his own tankard. Well, since Aether's up for it, then maybe he can think of a few other things they can get into tonight.]

I meant more that I'll bring you along with me more often, but since you seem interesting in exploring other avenues of opportunity tonight, then I don't see why I should deny you such an experience. [He inclines his head towards Aether's drink.] Finish that up, so then you can let your cares drift away for the evening.

[He looks to the bartender, waving him down.]

Another one for my friend here, will you? And another for me.

[Childe surveys the bar...wonder where he should start.]

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