The following week was filled with mundane and political meetings as well as a few parties in celebration of the impending summer festivals. At every opportunity Gai made himself available to the Prince and they made several more short riding trips as well as a few private lunches. Slowly they began to talk of many things, Brennus spoke of his childhood and how he never dreamed of his life changing when he was to rule. Many of his friends from childhood were not suitable company in the eyes of his advisors now that he was regent and those few nobles that he had once been so close spent much time away from the castle now as their duty as sons called them to stay close to their counties. Artemis had already forsaken her family duty and so was free to travel and enjoy court. Gai told Brennus about his family's disgrace and how his goal for most of his life was to restore the family honor. He had many ribald tales and worrisome incidents as a Knight in training due to the prejudices of young men but how his time as a squire let him grow immensely. Then they talked about philosophy, policies that were constantly changing, and even the gossip that changed daily in the castle. Each day Gai found himself listening to every word of the Prince and was surprised to find that he rarely thought of him in terms of his title or position anymore. Brennus, for his part, savored each moment he was allowed to spend with the Knight and once in a while even forgot about the cloud hanging over his head.

It was the Sabbath day again – though most of the population followed a religion that encouraged household worship – and Prince Vos was in the archery yard. He had a recurve bow and was carefully sending a volley of arrows at a sad little target in the distance already punctured with numerous holes. He was supposed to have a bit of training time with Artemis, however, when she arrived, she was not dressed for any physical activities. Her frilled shirt spilled around a fine blue vest and a tight burgundy coat that fell to her knees. The pants were a sturdy thick material that tucked into well-used but high-quality boots. The Prince gave a sad little smile as he looked her over, "I say, Dear, but that is quite the outfit to be dueling in."

"Oh, Bren, I'm so sorry! I can't stay any longer, I'm afraid I have to be off."

"Alright Dear, do promise though that you'll write and that it won't be for too long."

"Oh, hardly! A week if it's a month! I will rush back to your side, don't fear."

Prince Vos nodded and accepted the warm embrace of his good friend before shoving her lightly in the direction of the stables and wished her a good journey. He didn't ask where she had to be, or what exactly she would be doing – that would make it all to easy to send a missive requesting her back and that was something he refused to do. He would not burden his only friend and bind her to the castle who's confines she so despised.

A large figure in the fighting rings dancing back and forth lightly brought a small smile to the Prince's sad face – no, perhaps not is only friend.

Evening fell on the kingdom and Bren sat in a small room adjacent to his suites. Lightly decorated in purples and cream it contained only a couch and two chairs with a large fireplace and three windows. Hardly a room fit for any social occasion and indeed one that was only kept clean on proprieties sake.

A knock at the door went unanswered but a man entered anyway. Bren smiled to himself, Gai always managed to figure out exactly where he was despite his feeble attempts at privacy.

The Knight seated himself on the other end of the couch. He was dressed in his court clothes, no doubt having just left the small soiree that the Prince had bowed out early from. His eyes raked over the Prince quickly though Brennus still blushed slightly – he was dressed in only a loose silk shirt and breeches. His shoes sat near the fire, the coat, vest, and sash all piled on a chair, while Brennus was curled in a corner of the couch. His fingers clutched a piece of paper, which was quickly stuffed into the couch – Gai didn't pursue it.

After a moment Gai took up the conversation, "Did you notice the Duchesses headdress tonight? I was afraid it would drop something in the punch."

"I'm think it did."

Gai sighed silently as a small smile etched onto Bren's face, "Well, I'm glad I did not partake then, though I did notice a few older fellows who seemed to have indulged in the whole thing. I hope they don't have an episode later."

"Indeed, I think the Duchess is safe though. Their cups were so laced that they will be hard pressed to recall what they found in the bowl."

Their teasing of the court continued for another minute before the Prince turned to Gai semi-seriously, "Gaizka, do…do you think….that I…well, I mean. Will it be alright?"

Gai didn't know precisely what sparked this sudden sad sentiment but supposed the combined pressure of court and his closest friend leaving him had indeed worn on the young Prince. Anyway, the sad, almost lost expression, inspired Gai to act without thinking as he reach across the small space between them and drew the Prince into his arms. Brennus stiffened for a moment before practically bleeding into the strong force surrounding him, his arms cupping around broad chest and hiding his face in the clean soft uniform. He didn't cry or shake but curled slightly around the man holding him.

When Gai felt him relax completely he carefully shifted so that Bren's head was supported by both his arm and the couch. The Prince was asleep and breathing deep even breaths. Gai carefully ran his fingers through the soft honey hair and trailed down the soft, exposed neck. It was moments like this that he wanted to keep with him even through all his adventure and fighting. This was a feeling that surpassed all others.

Gai sighed and leaned back, there was so much standing in their way. First their stations were far apart, and his allegiance was to the father not the son. Besides that, what if the Prince did not return his feelings?

For the first time, Gai looked down at the Prince in fear. This young royal had the power to tear his heart and he was completely unawares, but Gai was a warrior and so approached it as any war, he would deal with that army or injury when it came, and not before.

A little later the door opened again and for a moment Gai felt something jump in his stomach, however it proved only to be a young maid that he recognized as the Prince's personal assistant. Gai made a shushing motion with his forefinger against his lips. The maid nodded and retreated only to return moments later with light blanket. She laid it across the Prince before bending down to remove the Knights boots and wrap another blanket around his feet. She stroked the fire, adding another log, and Gai whispered a 'thank you' before she bowed and exited with a smile. Gai soon found himself dozing comfortably, breathing in the scent of his Prince and revealing in the warmth of the body draped over his.

In the morning the young maid rushed in and shook the slumbering Prince awake. Brennus shot up, narrowly missing Gai's nose, "What time is it?!"

"Sir, your clothes are laid out as well as some water. Please, you have time, but just enough."

"Thank you. Please send the letter on my dresser to the aviary. A bird is waiting for it." The Prince pulled himself off the couch and dug out the missive from the cushion. As he turned to leave he cause Gai's eye's on him. With a small smile an apologetic eyes he bent down quickly and pressed his lips to Gai's swiftly, then he was out the door and Gai heard the large chamber doors shut.

Still stunned, the Knight lifted a hand to his lips and brushed over the tingling flesh, a warm fuzz slowly spreading through his body.

Prince Vos quickly scrubbed his face, hands, arms, and neck. The maid came over and slipped the shirt over his bare chest. Next came the changing out of his breeches and into bright white ones, these he put on by himself behind a screen. With relative ease they had him dressed and ready for the meeting.

For this, Prince Vos took one of the most public routes to the throne room. It was a room he used a little as possible, however, he made a confidant figure as he strode through the hallways, his guard in place, the gold tipped boots clicking on the marble floors. He arrived in the room on the southern side, forcing him to walk the length of the grand room as the four men gathered kneeled on either side of the patterned walkway. The Prince took no leisure in his trip and arrived at the throne quickly. Instead of sitting he remained standing a step below the throne itself.

The men were outfitted in dark armor with fine gold emblems on their breast and matching silver-toned swords – each of which had been carefully designed to best fit its user, they were gifts from the Prince to his first four Knights.

The Prince asked that they be at ease, each immediately stood and brought a fist to the gold emblem on their breast reciting in unison, "My Lord."

The Prince bowed slightly to them before continuing, "Lord Amato, I received your missive last night finding it had been delayed a day by weather."

"Yes, Highness. I hoped to give you some warning."

"I must admit I did not expect such speedy results."

"Yes, my lord, but when I arrive it was quickly apparent how to conduct myself and so the solution to our dilemma was delivered into my hands. There were other necessities however, which your other Knights have taken as the duty to retrieve. As per requested that we act autonomously, I sent out messenger birds and so we arrive in near perfect timing late last night."

"Thank you, and I am grateful for all you have done for me. What price must be exacted for this remedy?"

"I have been instructed that the Madame will visit you herself in due course to discuss that. Also I have been cautioned that refusing payment when it is requested will result in trauma."

"Thank You. I ask that you leave these things I have had you retrieve with me and go to rest yourselves. You have done very well by me, and I am pleased to call you my Knights."

"Thank You, Highness."

With that another Knight drew out a small chest he had been holding and delivered it to the extended hands of the Prince. Simultaneously the Knights bowed then turned and retreated to their quarters.

The Prince walked from the throne room, the chest carried in both hands against his stomach. He did not stop for greetings or calls, instead his escort followed him until he reached his suite of rooms where his advisor, Lord Darnin, awaited him. Prince Vos nodded to the Lord and entered his study. The Guard took up stations outside the room while the advisor joined the Prince in the study.

Prince Vos placed the chest on his desk and took a seat in the large wing-backed chair while Lord Darnin sat in one of the smaller straight backed chairs in font of him.

"Lord Darnin, I appreciate all the help you have given me over the time my father has been incapacitated."

"My Prince, it was a pleasure. However there are a number of questions I must raise now."

Before he could continue the Prince stood and placed his hands on the wood littered with papers, "I am sorry, Lord Darnin, but I cannot risk you asking anything that I cannot answer. My denial would be enough to incriminate. Please accept my apology and understanding should you decide to resign. However, I do need you to complete one more small task for me. Please see that my meetings and courts are either canceled or carried on without me through tomorrow night. That will be all."

The Lord stood, his back stiff, and bowed. He would not abandon the Prince but still was not happy at working without full information.

As the old advisor strode from the room the prince was already calling in a waiting footman. This man he sent off at a run to the training grounds outside.

The Prince opened the chest when he left and pulled out the four items as well as a slip of paper. Before him on the desk lay a set of bound herbs, a small vile of oil, a dark obsidian knife, and a clear crystal bottle with flakes of stone and symbols inscribed around it. The Prince read the instructions carefully and looked back at the items before him. The world shifted as he realized that this might not work. That he could have come so far only to end it poorly, however there was little room for thoughts like that as time was creeping by.

Returning the items to their chest and locking it in a little drawer the Prince proceeded to prepare to visit his father. When he arrived in the room the Man was burrowing through books that had thick oil stains on the pages where his fingers had run over them a thousand times. The Prince approached silently and waiting for the King's eyes to meet his, "My Lord, I must open the windows. But I will not leave, you will be safe until they are closed again."

The King nodded faintly and moved to a corner of the room that would be shielded from the light. At once Prince Vos was pained at the lack of resistance and thus the weakening condition of the man, but took hope that he knew which corner would be the best protection.

Carefully the Prince cracked each window, not enough to draw attention from the gardens below, and slipped open the curtains to move the thick air out. For the procedure to work, the air needed to be pure.

After that was done he made sure all the incense was no longer burning and piled them in a bag along with the ashes and any tepid glasses of water he could find. Searching out the bits of bread along took longer but soon the room, while not neat, was relatively clean.

When the room seemed aired he carefully shut each window and drew the curtains back gently. Then he drew the old man from his corner and helped him strip of his filthy clothes – these too went into his bag – before finally washing him down with a wet cloth he had brought and dressing him in a long white robe.

The Prince left him in the bed, sleeping fitfully. The bag he dragged out the door and handed to a passing servant instructing him to burn the bag along with the contents. The servant nodded and rushed off to do as he was bid.

As nighttime fell the Prince was in his study and pouring over several books pulled from around the room. A soft noise drew his attention and he turned to see a man dressed in solid grays and blacks standing just inside the balcony windows. The man bowed low before falling to one knee, "My Lord. I have come as you asked."

"Thank You Tartus. I appreciate your cooperation."

The Prince pulled a bag of gold coins from his desk and handed it to the kneeling man, "I trust the girls are doing fine."

"Yes, sire. they are well accommodated and had no complaints but that they should return to their families."

"Thank You. I hope you have left them with enough to eat and care for themselves."

"Yes Sire. A friend of mine will care for them and prevent them from running until your men arrive."

"I appreciate it. Please come to me if you ever have a problem."

"Sire."

With that the man was back out the glass doors and down a soot rope.

The Prince collected the chest from its hiding place and slipped off to the King's quarters.

Gai had seen the Prince on his journey to the throne room earlier that day, the man that confidently made his way through the throng of servants and courtiers was a far cry from the boy that had fell asleep in his lap the night before. He had hoped for some repeat performance but it quickly became clear that the Prince wasn't entertaining any visitors. His advisor emerged moment after entering and snapped to the guards that no one was to be let in.

Gai had spent his day then on the practice grounds since he couldn't bring himself to visit town or take a ride. Finally the night found him restless and wandering the garden's he so little visited, simply because they were the only grounds he had not prowled that day.

Trying to calm himself enough to sleep he noticed a dark figure creeping around the edge of the castle – A secret lover, perhaps – he thought and dismissed it. However, when the same figure was climbing a dark rope up to a large balcony the Knight watched. Obviously the man meant not be seen, and indeed couldn't be seen from the wall where the guards were stationed. The man fiddled with something before slipping into the room and shutting the window behind him.

Gai was wont to dismiss it but the clues pointed to a thief and he headed to alert the guards, then something caught him and he glanced back at the castle. Calculating quickly in his head he suddenly shot off in the direction of the castle, guards forgotten as he found the room the man had entered was none other than that of the Prince.

Nothing registered in his mind but the threat to his gentle Brennus. When he reached the rooms however he pulled up short as a dark clad figure, maybe shorter in stature but it was hard to discern, crept off in the shadows in the direction of the King's suite.

Gai followed silently, stalking the figure as closely as possible. Then he turned a corner and the man was lost. Cursing silently and searching a moment for a hidden door Gai looked at his surroundings. The King's chambers weren't too far off he would head there.

When he arrived nothing seemed amiss, no sounds of a struggle rose from the sealed chamber and Gai nearly left to search the man out. Curiosity, however, drew him. 'Perhaps the man had gone in here, and then the King would be endangered,' he justified to himself. So, silently, he turned the knob and found it unlocked. The door eased open with signs of constant use. Inside was dark, only one candle burning and casting a light over a sunken face, once beautiful, and covered with scruffy hair.

Gai took in the scene quickly, a small bowl nearly full with dark liquid, a black knife sitting in a pool of liquid next to the candle, and finally a figure cast in shadow and kneeling next to the man on the bed.

Without thinking the Knight drew his sword and rushed forward, the man on the bed made a feeble noise and the kneeling man turned just enough to catch the swinging blade on his arm. But the Knight was not slowing as he drew a small dagger from his hip and drove it into the man's side before the light caught up with him and showed a set of wide, surprised hazel eyes, honey hair, pearly skin, and a small gold emblem on the collar of his coat. The Prince stumbled back against the bed, one arm handing useless at his side. The King's arm showed a trail where the blood had run but also that a careful hand had cleaned it and was in the process of binding the wound.

With a grunt the Prince turned from the motionless Knight and finished binding the wound. He then dropped the knife and a small oil vile into a bag which was tied at his hip, the bowl with blood was lifted with his good arm as he took a standing position. This didn't last long and he barely managed to lower the bowl to the bed before collapsing again to the floor a loud howl emitting from his lips as the dagger still buried in his side was jostled.

Gai almost moved forward, wanted to help, but something held him back, some vital piece of information – like what had the Prince been doing to the king for all this time.

Finally he merely watched as the Prince pulled the dagger from his flesh with a faint whimper. Blood quickly darkened his coat but he paid it no heed as he collected the bowl and walked slowly past the Knight and back to his own rooms.

Gai grabbed the remaining clothes and wiped up the blood the Prince had left before removing himself from the room. Unable to face the Prince and afraid of what he might do, the Knight retreated to his quarters by a path that did not take him near the Prince's rooms. If the Prince was going to hang him then he must come to get him personally.

Prince Vos leaned against the wall as he moved back to his rooms. His father would be okay, would get better. Himself, however, was a different matter. The hole in his side was bleeding severely and he wondered briefly if something vital was injured, and his left arm was bleeding too, and useless, however, all these injuries paled to what his heart felt. A deep, ripping pain had begun when Gai had seen his face and hand back away, had not helped, had not cared.

After last night, he had hoped that there was something between them, that their relationship could overcome the Prince's necessary secrecy. But Gai had disappointed him, and it wasn't Gai he was mad at. It was himself. For being royal, for getting tangled in this, for not trusting anyone with his burden. He deserved the hole in his side, and maybe he would never regain use of his arm, then, maybe, he would begin to atone for his actions.

Inside his rooms he placed the bowl of his father's blood on the counter. It was the last key to the puzzle, that the blood be sealed in the crystal vial and kept for the witch, till she arrived.

His job complete he collapsed on the floor, glad, at least, that the Kingdom would run smoothly again with his father on the throne.

When the maid arrived several minutes later to her Prince's still form and the blood seeping through his clothes she couldn't help but let out a yell. Several more servants woke and rushed to her aid. Together they stripped and bathed the young Prince, not even blushing at his nakedness, then dressed his wounds carefully and put him to bed.

They agreed this should be kept quiet until the prince woke. The next morning they dressed his wounds again and brought the physician to check him out. Agreed he would live, the physician waited nearby for him to wake.

Late in the afternoon the Prince gave the first signs of life. With fluids and constant attention of the doctor he was awake and conscious within an hour.

After letting his wounds to be dressed again he motioned for the doctor to stay, "Lord Physician. Please attend to my father. He will appear to be coming down from a bad fever. He should need nothing more than bed rest and fluids. I believe he will be conscious. The wound on his arm should not be touched – to be dressed or anything – until late tonight. Please report back to me when you are finished."

"Yes, m'lord," the Physician stated shocked. No one but the Prince had seen the King for over a year and now he was simply requiring bed rest and liquids? However, he was a good doctor and did as he was ordered. The Prince fell into a fitful sleep so that when he woke he needed another bath to wash the sweat and blood off while his sheets were carefully changed. The Doctor reported that his father was talking and alert and did appear to be healing rapidly, he then left a sleeping solution before taking his bed, exhausted from the long day.

After the servants had left and long since he was supposed to sleep, the Prince lifted himself from the bed and collected the crystal vial from a drawer. Using a funnel he poured the blood till the vial was full then pressed the glass stopper in, lining it carefully with wax. Finished, he filled the bowl with water and left it to be carried out. Back in his bed he felt warmth spreading through his side and cursed as dizziness swept him into sleep.

Gaizka wasn't bothered the next day, or the following. Finally he decided to leave his chambers and see what was about in the castle. Activity was evident as soon as he entered the mess hall. It was fuller than usual and loud. Vaguely he caught the words 'King' and 'illness.' Nothing definitive but nothing of the Prince at all. He collected the oatmeal and sat across from Charl, "What's all this I'm hearing about?"

"Gai! Where've you been?! So much has happened, last night the royal doctor came from the King's quarters, reported to the Prince then made an announcement that the King was on his way to a full recovery. He never said what the illness was and there's a lot of speculation over it but no one seems to know."

"He's recovering! When do they think he will be well?"

"No one knows for sure, but the Doctor visited him again this morning and then the King invited in some councilors and old friends. They say that he didn't have much to say about the time he's been absent but acted completely normal except for a slight confusion at his illness."

"Hm, I wonder when court will be held again."

"I'm not sure, there hasn't been talk of anything but the King and everyone seems to be awaiting his full recovery."

Gai nodded and returned to his food, listening to the buzz around him.

It was a week later that the King was strong enough to make his way slowly to the throne room where he thanked everyone for their concern and ability to run smoothly without him. He also acknowledged several soldiers and academics that had received awards by the Prince while he was in charge. The Prince himself was not present though no one seemed very concerned with it. At the same time the King made an announcement that the Maidens recently kidnapped had been found and returned by the contingent of soldiers. They were being celebrated for their bravery and each family was given a crest of the crown to show their good favor.

The next day a smaller crowd gathered, mostly of soldiers, knights, or military courtiers, to see the Prince return to court and award his four knights. It was never said what exactly they did for the Prince, but each had a heavy medal and a title gifted to them. The prince also awarded the soldiers he had employed to save the maidens. These were gifted with a rise in rank and a pretty sum in their accounts. The Prince had arrived walking, his left arms stayed at his side, though it showed no other sign of injury. Though most present noticed nothing but a slight damper appearance Gai had found himself drawn to attend and noticed the maid wringing her hands at the side door while Prince Vos gave his awards and speeches. With a flourish of his arms, and perhaps a smart wince, the Prince announced to those gathered, "A banquet is being held tonight in honor of our heroes. It would be my pleasure that you all attend. Those not present are also welcome! Tonight is a joyful night that should be shared with friends and loved ones!"

The crowd applauded and began to move as liveried men ushered them through the large back doors and the Prince's honors lined the front of the room. Gai watched carefully as the Prince gripped his side and a dark stain began to creep through his fingers and over the rich gold fabric. The young maid rushed forward and took his arm while his Knights and honored soldiers to a perimeter around him. They may their way slowly out of the side of the room and stepped through a smaller hallway. Something in Gai twisted and he cursed himself even as he planned of way s to escape the boundaries of the castle.

It was several weeks more, after the King had recovered and taken over court and the festival to honor his newly found health had occurred, that Gai finally received an assignment that took him from the castle and off to the reaches of the west to handle a town's border bandits.

The rooms appointed to him in the castle were heavy with ideas and memories. His closet was full of bright clothes from the market and a few delightful books that had been copied for the King's festival. A small gold ring with lovingly designed patterns hung on a string around his neck as he suited up in armor and mounted his warhorse. He had not gathered courage to see the Prince, though he had come to conquer that he loved the boy. His mind was swamped with doubt and courage fled him when he thought of not being forgiven or loved back.

Artemis rode in hard on her steed, the crowds parting sharply before her and the gates to the castle barely opened in time. She left her horse to the stable and raced through the castle. When she arrived in the Prince's suite it was Lord Darnin that met her, "Artemis, please. He is not well. You must be calm when you see him."

"What happened, Reg? What's wrong with him?"

"We aren't sure, Lady. We've asked and asked but he refuses to talk. Whatever he was about he got the King cured."

"Oh, well that's great! The great lard has finally healed! Let me by! Let me see Bren!"

She stalked past him and stopped short at the sight of the King standing in the doorway. "Sire," She said, impudently, but bowed nonetheless.

"Lady Artemis. Please be calm with him. I assure you, I feel the weight of my fault."

Artemis bowed again before moving past him to see the boy laying in the annoying pristine bed.

Brennus opened his eyes as she entered and a small smile worked its way to his lips, "Arti." His voice was weak, but still loving, and as she moved forward he sat up slightly.

"Bren, oh Bren! I'm sorry I was gone for so long!"

"Arti, its okay, you are not to blame."

Despite his words, Artemis felt tears leaking down her face and she carefully removed her boots and coat and gloved before crawling into the bed beside him, "Oh Brennus. I'll just lie here a while, get some rest. We'll talk when you are rested."

The Prince nodded and was asleep almost immediately. His face was thinner than before and his body appeared even daintier under the massive covers. The King came in quietly and stood near her, "Lady, he was healing though not as quickly as we hoped, he was making progress. Several days ago, however, he was found out on the balcony, bleeding again. After that he has not been able to keep down food. We fear for his life at this point, however he refuses to tell us what forced him out of his bed at such a crucial moment in his healing or any events leading to this condition."

Artemis nodded sadly. She had been on a merchant voyage and didn't receive the note from the King until her return. It had read that the Prince was deathly ill and requested her assistance. Somehow, she thought, if she had just been here, it would have been okay.

When the Prince woke several hours later Artemis fetched him some water before crawling back under the covers. She looked at the scars forming on his side and arm and talked of little things, things she had seen, people she had met. Finally she came to asking him what had happened. Her soft voice and warm hands broke the last of his will. As no one else was in the room he told her the tale in a whispered tone, not only of what had happened since she left, but everything back when the King first became ill. She listened quietly as he explained everything, finally let go of the burden he had been carrying. He reached the point where he had completed the witch's instructions and paused.

Arti urged him onward, "Bren, please. It will feel better to let it go, its just me, remember? We've been through lots of bad times, we'll get through this."

The Prince nodded and resumed his story, "I was getting better. I didn't particularly want to, but I was. I gave honors and spoke before court. He was there that day, but I didn't speak to him. When I had thought that I might finally be able to leave my bed, to begin regaining my strength, the witch, Lady Crow, arrived. I felt her waiting for me so I dismissed my servants and when all was quiet I went to see her on the balcony and passed off the vial.

She seemed pleased, and was in fact not cruel at all."

Arti looked down at her friend and was wont to disagree but held her tongue and let him continue.

"She looked at me kind of sad and touched the wound on my arm and side. For a moment they were gone, as if they had never been, and I stretched wonderfully. 'Prince Vos,' she said, 'I have no wish to extract a further payment from you, however I cannot let you set your own course of events. I see that you would take the nobler route and thus end only as you have suffered in helping your father. Those you love will hurt you, and those you need will leave you.' I admit pain at these words but did not think she would take such drastic action. 'I will give you a gift, and payment for my efforts will be an invitation,' she said. I still am unsure as to what she means but I nodded knowing that failing to do so would end in my father's demise. Thus when I woke – I had not even noticed fainting – I was again with my wounds, but twice worse now. Food would not stay down, and as though to torture me, each night I can dream of nothing but Lord Chardonneau. He walks the gardens now, outside my window and sometimes I can spot him. I know too that he has attended court nearly every day for my maid has brought me reports from her spying. I cannot go on like this. I would rather die than think of him again, Arti! Every thought of him, every sight, every word, tears deeper into me so that I think I may never be whole again!" This last excited statement was followed by his collapsing into the pillows around him and gasping for air.

When he finished he swore her to secrecy and she complied, though only with the parts concerning the King. When the Prince slept again – which was soon due to the exhaustion following his tale – she slipped from his room and dressed again in full uniform.

Bursting into the King's study she made a sharp motion and the servants slipped out, not wanting to be caught in the crossfire.

"Where is Lord Chardonneau?"

"M'Lady, he has been sent on a an assignment to the west as per request of the Prince. He left early this morning, just a bit before you arrived, I believe. He should be gone several weeks."

Artemis growled and strained to keep her voice at a reasonable level, "Please, tell me his destination."

"Lady that may compromise his mission. Why do you need to know?" Something seemed to click in the King's head – perhaps he was still a bit slow from his recovery – and he stood sharply, "Has Prince Vos told you something? I'll fetch Lord Chardonneau immediately, write him out a letter and tell me what you have learned!"

"I am sorry, My King, but I cannot tell you all I have heard, some must come from the Prince himself. All I can tell you is that it is imperative that Lord Chardonneau come back at once. It is he and only he that can save the Prince."

The King nodded and seemed to put some pieced together in his head. With another small nod he looked back at the Lady standing in full men's dress and gave a small smile, "He is headed to the White Isles, lady. You are far behind. I will have a horse made ready and packs filled, please dress for the journey."

Artemis bowed and shot out the door. Her maids helped her to quickly undress then left her to clothe herself in sturdy riding breeching, a thin cotton shirt, and a sturdy coat while they packed a satchel with fresh under things a pair of breeches, and a few shirts and gathered her heavy, oiled cloak. Within the hour she was off on a fresh horse provided by the king.

The King rubbed his temples lightly as activity buzzed in his office. He couldn't remember just what triggered his illness but some pieces began to click as he began to understand his son's relationship with the ever-distant Knight that had been under his service for so many years.

Artemis was weary, cold, and hungry, however, she only stopped for a few hours at the inn to eat, change clothes, and catch a small nap, then she was on the road again. She had to do this twice more before gaining on the Knight. The Prince had believed that he was left alone and the witch – despite her intentions – was slowly killing him. He wouldn't last much longer in his condition.

When the morning light was just kissing the sky behind her on her third day, she reached the small town that the Knight would leave from to sail to the White Isles. Farmers in the outlying lands were up and in the fields as she galloped passed but the town was still silent and mostly dark with only a few shop owners up and cleaning and setting up for the day.

Artemis rode her horse into the inn where she paid a sleepy stall hand to clean him thoroughly and give him good food and plenty of water. Inside, the inn was still dark and Artemis pounded on the counter for several minutes before a sleepy owner woke and stumbled out of the back bedroom, "Lady…what do you need?"

"Where is the Knight?" Artemis just barely managed not to yell and settled for a deep growl instead.

*Yawn* "We put him up in room three. He is probably still asleep, though."

Artemis ignored him and as she stormed up the stairs the owner stumbled back to his bed for another hour of rest.

Artemis didn't bother to knock but slipped a knife in the door and tripped the lock, letting herself in. She was a few feet from the sleeping Knights form when he suddenly rushed to his feet and turned, a dagger in his hand. Artemis, just as quickly, had her short sword drawn and aimed.

They remained like that a moment until Lord Chardonneau sighed and lowered his weapon. Artemis kept her raised.

"Lady Artemis, what a surprise to see you here."

"You BASTARD!" Artemis advanced a bit, her sword still aimed at the Knight, the knuckles gripping the handle were white with pressure.

Gai frowned at the fiercely angry female in front of him, "Please leave, Lady. I have no wish to entertain your company."

"I don't give a damn what you want! You selfish creature!" Arti charged, swinging her sword hard. Gai barely caught it with his knife. She charged again and he parried before stepping back out of her range, "Lady! I will not fight you! Whatever you think I have done I suggest you take it up with the authorities."

Artemis wasn't listening, she charged again and relentlessly attacked the unprepared Knight. Finally his dagger was flipped aside and her sword came to rest at his throat.

"Lord Chardonneau, I am not going to kill you only for the sake of my friend. I know what transpired between you two and how you betrayed him." Gai shut his eyes briefly at his, pained at hearing the words spoken. However, her next deliverance of information washed away this shame and brought troubles anew.

"Now you betray him again! He is cursed, and dying."

"Dying?" Gai felt weak, his heart beating faster even as his bones seemed to melt.

"Yes, Dying! Has been for days! You wouldn't know because you never visited him. Never tried! Didn't care enough to see your damage, to take responsibility."

"I couldn't…I didn't want to be…turned away."

"And that cowardice may cost you your neck. The Prince is cursed because he has given you his heart and he cannot live without it. As you run from him you tear his heart further asunder and he suffers ever more for it. I thought you would have felt it too, considering you have given him yours – or so I thought – though perhaps you have no heart and are instead a demon in disguise!"

"A curse, of love? The Prince…loves me?"

"Loves you, yes." At this the Lady seemed to loose her strength and lowered the sword she had held till then, "You must go to him, Knight. Only you can save him. You must go, and go now."

The Knight didn't pause but to rest hand on the Lady's shoulder in thanks, then he was dressing rapidly and rushing out to the stables where his horse was quickly saddled before the ground pounded beneath his feet. The Sun rose to lead the way as the Knight urged his horse onward.

He paused only briefly for food and rest. The castle came into view as the sun dipped into the mountains behind him. Onward he rode, his dark armor shining with the moonlight. The watchman only managed to recognize him and open the gates just in time for him to slip through.

His horse reared as it was suddenly pulled to a halt and its rider dismounted. Gai glanced up to the castle, the Prince's library window was visible from the courtyard. However, he had no time for mooning about. Making his way to the castle he sought out and audience with the Prince. The guard outside the Prince's doors were wary of him and sent a runner inside. Several minutes passed and Gai thought that he would be turned away, the runner, however, returned and announced the Prince would be prepared to see him in half an hour, and could he manage to wait.

Gai nearly hollered at the poor boy that 'No, he couldn't wait. He had waited too long already' but managed to give a sharp nod and turn to find his rooms. There he stripped his armor and left it against a wall. The gold ring he had commissioned several weeks prior slipped from under his shirt and he carefully removed it from the string around his neck.

Turning the gold band in his fingers he cursed himself silently and prayed it wasn't too late for him or his Prince.

Dressed in a simple black shirt and black breeches with knee-high boots, the Knight returned to the Prince's quarters. There he was led into the study that he had visited the last time he had ridden in at the middle of the night seeking and audience with the Prince. This time, no advisor waited to hear his report, but several lamps still lit the expanse of the room.

Leaning against the front of the desk in the middle of the room was the Prince. He was dressed in a soft gray top with knee-length black breeches. His boots were gray too, and made of thick cotton. He was thinner than the last time they had met, and though the long sleeved shirt hid the bandages on his arm and waist the Knight saw how only one arm was braced against the desk and how he leaned ever so slightly to one side.

"Lord Chardonneau, what brings you back from your mission?" There was not mistaking the pained tone in the Prince's voice or the slightly watery quality of his eyes.

The Knight stepped forward saying, "Prince Vos," however at that the Prince winced and turned his head aside as though to hide his reaction.

Gai took a minute and breathed deeply before casting caution to the wind. He moved across the floor silently, closing the space between them. One hand went up to brush against the Prince's soft cheek as he tried again, "Bren."

Brennus looked back at him, surprise evident in his expression, words failing to conjure in his throat.

"Bren, I'm so sorry. Please don't be mad at me." With that Gai gave a small smile before dipping down to press his lips firmly against Bren's. Their first real kiss.

Bren gasped and Gai took advantage to slip his tongue in and taste the sweet breath of his prince. Bren squeezed his eyes shut and wrapped both arms around Gai. His hands clutched at thick fabric as electricity raced through his abused nerves.

Gai cupped the back of Bren's head with one hand and held his prince to him with the other on Bren's lower back.

When they finally came up for breath Bren's face was wet with tears. The warm salty liquid continued to drip and Gai carefully kissed up the tracks, tasting the pain that was bottled up and now rushed out in a heave of release. Gai didn't tell him to stop crying, just let him weep it out until all his tears were gone, then whispered against his hair, "I will never make you cry again, my prince. I love you."

Bren tilted his head back and responded, "I love you. I would cry every day simply for the love of you, my knight."

Gai smiled and stole another quick kiss. Just then a bright shower of light exploded just outside the balcony doors. When the glass was blown open Gai carefully turned so that the Prince was encompassed completely by Gai's arms and protected by his body.

A witch in a short black dress stepped into the room. Her wing black hair fell around her face in layers before dropping to her waist. The long thin legs were covered in thigh-high black boots with a wicked heel on them.

In her hands she wielded a black cane. It swung around and around as she strolled into the room, finally coming to rest in front of her where she placed both hands on the head and leaned forward, "So. You've finally grown some, Knight Chardonneau. I admit, I was afraid for a moment, I thought I would have to come back and rescue the Prince myself."

"Witch! Begone!"

"Tut tut! What behavior! After all I've done for you. Now, come here Prince dear. Be a doll, then."

To Gai's surprise the Prince placed the palms of his hands against Gai's chest, "It will be alright, love. She's not half bad."

Gai nodded mutely before releasing the Prince, though he hated to do so. The Prince walked around the desk and stood before the Witch. He favored his injured side and pressed a hand firmly to it as he gave a small bow, "Madame."

"Oh, dear Prince. You are so valiant, I am glad I have given you the right gift." With that she reached out and one hand replaced his over the wound in his side while the other gripped his wounded arm. A flash of light filled the room and when it was clear Gai was on the ground and the Witch was gone. Gai rose quickly and looked around to see the Prince kneeling where the Witch had been.

Gai rushed to his side but Bren wasn't crying, instead he was caressing his side over and over again, "She fixed me, Gai. She's not a witch at all. She's more like…a fairy godmother."

Gair caressed the soft skin there, renewed to its normal bright hue but still with that aweful thinness. The reminder of his mistakes still twinged in his chest. Biting the flesh inside his cheek he drew out the small gold ring and slipped it onto the Prince's left hand ring finger, "My prince, my love, my Brennus. Will you have me? Will you swear to be by my side always?" Bren jerked at the feel of warm metal against his skin and gazed down at the immaculate ring before bringing his gaze to match Gai's.

"My Knight, my love, my Gaizka. I will. Forever. I will give you my all, if you will have it."

Then Bren reached out and grasped Gai's head, bringing their lips together. Gai kissed him back carefully and scooped the thin prince into his arms. Walking through the open bedroom door, Gai gently laid the Prince in his bed before climbing in after him.

Gai placed little kisses on Bren's eyelids, then on his cheeks, then to his neck, and down the small chest. When the thin shirt began to impede his exploration he removed it and continued. His tongue bathed the sweet skin around each nipple, then dipped into the belly button, bringing Bren's back into a sharp arch. Gai soothed it by returning to Bren's lips and gently massaging the soft mouth there.

Bren snaked his hands under Gai's shirt, trailing over all the wonderful muscles on his chest before seeking out a similar landscape on his back. Gai too was divested of his upper garments, letting Bren access every inch of skin.

With their skin slick with sweat Gai leaned back onto his haunches and stared down at the wonton prince. His wonton prince. Carefully they were both methodically divested of boots and breeches. Bren stretched out on top of the cool silk sheets, Gai tracing every line of his exposed body with hungry eyes. Quickly, the Knight retrieved something from the vanity before returning to his prince. Kisses started at the lips and trailed over to the ears then down to the chest, turning to suckles and licks at the nipples, before continuing on down until they found the treasure trail of pale brown hair. This was kissed and teased inch by inch until Bren gasped for air as his already throbbing member was kissed sweetly on its head. Gai smiled a the freshness of it before slipping the first few inches across his tongue, taking pleasure in the soft moan and sudden stretching of the sheets as Bren gripped handfuls of silk.
Gai helped Bren bend his knees correctly before resuming his slow ministrations. While Bren was lost in the sensation coming from his cock, Gai slipped in one lotioned finger, then another, and Bren was carefully prepared. Finally, Gai moved back up and Bren immediately brought their mouths together in a bruising kiss. Gai circled his arms around the smaller man, lifted him slightly. They took a breath and Gai slipped his tongue into Bren's mouth, drawing a whimper out with his kiss just before the tip of his member slipped into the waiting entrance of the prince. Bren gasped in pleasure and pain as Gai rocked slowly and murmured into his ear, "Its okay, trust me."

Bren nodded and clutched to his lover till finally Gai could move no more. Then he drew almost all the way out and made his way back in. This time Bren groaned, so Gai did it again and Bren completed it with a rock of his own hips. Soon they were in a rhythm and Bren was gasping for breath, raking his fingers into Gai's arms as the other moved above him.

Pausing in his movements, Gai brushed away the hair from Bren's face, "Open your eyes, Bren." Bren complied and watched in amazement as Gai moved in him again, their eyes locked.

Bren gasped in a deep breath before managing, "I love you, Gai. I love you."

Gai smiled and kissed Bren gently, "As I do you, Bren." Their needs soon overcame their savoring the moment and Gai moved more fiercely, Bren rising to meet him thrust for thrust. When his belly tightened in anticipation, Gai slipped a hand between them and brought Bren to the edge with them as they came within moments, crying out into the night.

Gai took the responsibility of cleaning them and tucking them both under the warm covers, the silk duvet cast side on the ground, and Bren falling fast asleep in the warm, protective nook of his bed that was Gai.

What the maids thought the next morning or what the wandering courtiers heard as they engaged in their own midnight trysts made no difference. The King approved of the relationship and the two were wed in full honors a few months later with the witch, as per requested, as a guest of Honor. They traveled some as the King continued to keep court and encountered many adventures before it came time for Bren to take the throne and they had more troubles of court, but where ever they went, what they endured, Gai was always beside Bren and Bren was always beside his Knight. They lived Together Ever After…but that, is another story.