Log: A Prince and his Guard

[eskil_douglas]

[Summary: Esse and Vincent tries some roleplay in the bedroom.]

[Warnings: NSFW, sex, some seriously silly acting.]

Vincent is grinning as he waits for Esse to arrive at his home that evening, his promised “surprise” neatly folded up on one of his armchairs. Vincent has a bottle of dark rum for the both of them, should Esse want it, and has made sure that both fireplaces are stocked high with coal, enough to burn for hours. If all goes to plan, Vincent thinks that it might be quite a long night.

Eskil arrives, a little early as always, and knocks on Vincent’s door. He’s quite excited to see what sort of surprise Vincent might have in store for him.

Vincent opens the door with a wide grin, revealing that he’s dressed in his usual dark suit, minus the jacket. “Esse!” he cries, practically giggling with excitement.

“Vincent!” Eskil beams in reply, leaning in to press a quick peck to the Russian’s cheek before he steps inside. “I’m not late, am I?”

“You’re early, as you always are, sweet thing!” Vincent laughs, “But not to worry, I have been ready for almost an hour...I’m quite eager…”

Eskil eases of his coat and gloves and grins a little sheepishly. “Well, then it’s probably a good thing I didn’t keep you waiting,” he giggles. “Whatever might you have planned?”

Vincent moves to help Esse with his outerwear, hanging his coat up for him before turning back to his little Swede with a grin: “Well...what usually happens when I invite you here of an evening, hm?” He chuckles, letting out the tiniest hint of a growl.

Eskil blushes and grins. “Delightful things, Vincent... but, well, it sounded like you had something more planned than just... what we usually do?”

“Well…” Vincent chuckles, unable to hold back any longer as he makes his way to the armchair, “What do you think of this?” He holds up two long, woolen cloaks--both large enough to fit each of the two men.

The Swede steps closer to have a look on the garments. “Cloaks?” he asks, confused, yet smiling.

“Yes!” Vincent beams, handing one over to Esse. It’s one he picked out especially for the Swede; dark purple in colour, with a beautiful silver embroidered trim. “Do you remember what we talked about, a while ago?” Vincent asks, purposely vague.

After accepting the cloak Eskil runs his hand gently over the fabric, admiring it. “You... you mean the roleplaying thing?” he asks.

“Yeah!” Vincent beams, before looking a little sheepish, “I mean...if you wanted to. I saw these today and couldn’t help myself...thought it was all a little perfect, no? But...like I said, only if you’re happy to try it out.”

Eskil removes his jacket, draping it over one of the armchairs, and puts the cloak on. “I’d be happy to try. What... what did you have in mind, exactly? What would you like me to be, uh, like?”

Vincent grins at the sight of Esse in the cloak. It’s a little too big for the young Swede, and it’s hopelessly sweet. “Maybe...what we talked about before?” Vincent asks, a little nervously, before securing his own cloak about his shoulders.

“So, ehm, a prince... or a virgin... or both?” Eskil asks, fiddling with the cloak a little nervously, smiling but avoiding Vincent’s gaze.

“B-Both?” Vincent asks, hoping he isn’t being too greedy as he steps forward to wrap a reassuring arm around Esse’s waist, his hand disappearing beneath the fabric of the cloak.

The Swede leans into the touch and nods. “Okay, both. Kiss me first, before we begin?”

“Of course…” Vincent murmurs, pressing his lips to Esse’s in a soft, grateful kiss, before pulling away to murmur: “D-Did you want to talk, too?”

“I uh, I don’t know. Just... even if we’re playing never overpower me without asking me first? And... no degrading from either me or you, okay?”

Vincent nods a slow, serious nod before replying: “I won’t overpower you, I’ll be gentle. And no degrading, I promise. Only sweet words. Anything else?”

“Just the same as always, I don’t want to see you in pain, so no doing anything that’s painful,” Eskil nods. “Otherwise, well, we’ll be talking, no? If anything happens we’ll deal with it, yes?”

Vincent nods another serious nod before breaking out into a grin: “Finally, you can’t tell me off for calling you a Prince all night…”

Eskil grins, sweet and shy, at that. “How could I, my trusted guard, when it is the right term of address?”

Vincent gives Esse a wide, warm smile which he hopes says You are the best lover in the world, before quickly pulling his arms from Esse, taking a few steps backwards before clearing his throat, straightening his back as he speaks with what he hopes is more of an English accent: “My Prince, am I interrupting you? I have word from the battlefield.”

Eskil straightens to his most regal posture and gestures to the seats. “Speak, good knight, and tell me what news you have.”

“Thank you, my Prince…” Vincent says, bowing before taking a seat, adjusting his cloak around himself and the chair, “‘Tis good news, indeed, which I hope may bring you cheer. If all goes well, we can push through the Northern mountains tomorrow and secure our victory.”

Eskil moves to gracefully take a seat in the other chair. “That is good news indeed, good knight. Tell me, we haven’t lost too many men, have we?”

“Not too many, my Prince, though...each loss hits me hard…” Vincent says, looking to the floor before pulling his gaze up to lock eyes with Esse: “But ‘tis worth it all, to secure your life.”

‘The Prince’ looks away. “Each life loss will be mourned by our kingdom even in our triumph, good knight, this I promise thee. My father will be grateful to know we are secure and that the wedding will take place as planned...”

Ooh he’s good, Vincent thinks. “Thank you, my Prince. I…” he trails off, looking away, “I am glad to hear that your wedding will commence as planned.” There is sorrow in the words.

“So... so am I, good knight,” says the Prince with a forced smile. “Our union will bring peace and prosper to our kingdoms...” he puts on a fine act of reluctance and nerves as he says; “... and, if luck will have it... heirs.”

Vincent looks back to his Prince with a warm smile. “You will make a wonderful Father, my Prince. No kingdom will be able to match us, in the handsomeness of our monarchy…” he chuckles.

“Perhaps so,” says ‘the Prince’ with a blush, “thank you, good knight, for your kind words... all I can hope for is to be a good husband, and ruler, one day.”

“I know you will be that and more,” Vincent replies, with a smile, “Your wife-to-be is beautiful, if I am not being too bold by saying so. You shall make a most stunning couple.”

“She is,” Eskil agrees, “very beautiful and lovely, I’ve heard.” There’s a deliberate pause, where Eskil does his best to look morose. “Maybe I shouldn’t speak of it... but I am afraid I will not please her...”

“‘Please her’, my Prince? How do you mean? You may speak of whatever you like, to me. I am your assistant and guide in more than just matters of combat, after all…” Vincent replies, smiling as he reaches over to give Eskil’s arm a fond little pat of reassurance.

“Well...” he says, not looking Vincent in the eyes as he says; “you are a man of the world, no? A noble warrior, and a handsome man... I... I admit I’ve never known a woman’s touch... nor a man’s for that matter,” Eskil nods, and blushes - it does come natural to him after all.

“O-Oh…” Vincent replies, faking surprise and shock, “I...I did not realise, my Prince. I just assumed, with your looks, and with you being of an age to…” Vincent trails off, coughing in a mock show of humility, “Without wanting to speak out of turn, I have had experience with both sexes. The battlefield can be a lonely place, eh?”

“So I’ve heard,” Eskil replies with a vane smile and nod. “Though these castle walls see me far away from any action, from doing good for our country - yet I too am no stranger to being lonely and even though there’s people at my disposal... they’ve no say and I’d rather be alone than force someone to do something they wouldn’t want.”

Vincent’s heart melts at that--and the sad smile on his face shows it as he replies: “My dear Prince, you have a heart of gold. This is why I fight for you, every day.” He coughs, continuing: “But to get back to the matter at hand...is there no-one you trust to...experiment with? A friend? You are so handsome--I know many-a soldier who would be more than willing…” Vincent laughs, a little boisterously.

Eskil smiles a little sadly, his voice low as he replies; “There’s no friends for a prince, my good knight, only allies - and you don’t take them to bed unless you’re willing to lose your head. I... I’ll manage, somehow... thank you for listening, and for your confidence in me, it means a lot.”

“You are more than welcome, my dear Prince. I hope you will remember that virgins are incredibly attractive…” he laughs, “But I am speaking out of turn again!”

Eskil shakes his head with a small smile. “You know that’s only true in women, or men intended for other men...”

“Mm, true...perhaps I am thinking as a man. But, still, all sexes appreciate modesty, and gentleness. You will be so charming, I am sure of it!” Vincent smiles, hoping his expression conveys a good amount of both sorrow and lust.

Eskil sighs. “I hope you’re right, good knight, for the Princess’ sake, and our kingdom,” that he isn’t too happy to be married can be read between the lines.

“I’m sure you will be happy…” Vincent says, attempting to be encouraging, “And...without wanting to sound too bleak, or overstep the line, my Prince, I know of many happy couples who find happiness in the arms of other men and women, if things are not going too well between them…”

The ‘prince’ gives his knight a stern look, before turning his face away. “It’d be cruel,” he whispers, “but I cannot deny my heart desires another...”

“O-Oh?” Vincent asks, playing the part of a confused friend, “Are they a Prince, or Princess?”

He shakes his head. “No, they’re not. But they’re strong, loyal and caring... and handsome.”

“Ah, so not one whom you could marry. Still, if you really are so smitten with them, follow your heart.” Vincent smiles. Esse is so cute like this!

Eskil shakes his head. “I doubt they’d want me. Perhaps they’d like to be with me because I’m a Prince... but, that’s just a title and beyond it I’m just a man after all - and not a very impressive one at that.”

“Hush, hush!” Vincent quickly says, “You think I would risk my life every day for a man whom I did not think to be loyal, and kind-hearted, and whom I would be proud to kneel before, as King?”

He looks away, shyly blushing. “You are too kind, my good knight, and your loyalty is inspiring,” Eskil dares a glance at the man. “Perhaps that’s why I... no, forget that I said anything and just know that I am grateful for your long servitude of our country.”

“Thank you, my Prince, I am truly, truly grateful for your inspiring words, but...what did you want to say?” Vincent asks. Esse is very good at teasing out his Prince’s feelings. Vincent is happy that his little Swede has taken to their game so wonderfully.

“It’s nothing important,” Eskil says - a challenge for Vincent. If he wants the shy virgin prince he will have to work for it, seducing him, or call off their game.

“Please, my Prince, you appear troubled. I...I want to help you. I’m not sure I could fight tomorrow knowing that I had left you unhappy…” Vincent murmurs, aware of his Knight’s guilt-tripping tactics. This is so much fun!

As if a Prince would fold so easily! Eskil doesn’t break his role, but it is hard fighting the smirk that wants to take place on his lips. “Your concern is touching, but I assure you, I shall be fine. My heart will survive being without whom it belongs to since it’d only endanger them if I’d give it to them.”

“But, my dear Prince...perhaps they could give you the experience you require, even if they could not give you their heart?” Vincent says, knowing it to be a somewhat weak retort--he should have known better than to try to outwit his little poet! Still, he is determined.

Eskil puts on a sad face of longing as he replies; “I could never use them like that, nor do I wish my heart to be crushed by having it handed back to me so carelessly.”

“You really feel...so strongly for them?” Vincent asks, careful to avoid the word “love”, even if they are only playing roles.

“... yes, my good knight, I do,” Eskil says, voice barely more than a whisper.

“Then...you have to go after them,” Vincent replies, his voice full of sorrow, “I know you are betrothed, but...you cannot live a lie and expect to be happy, my Prince.”

“I do not expect to be happy,” Eskil replies, “but... knowing that they’re safe and close by will soothe whatever ache I’ll feel as I can not have them be mine.”

“You should always expect happiness, my Prince, and live for it…” he trails off, chuckling, “I am aware that it is quite ironic for me to talk of joy and love, when I quite rarely feel either.” Yes, Vincent thinks, tug at the old heartstrings.

“You do not feel love and joy?” Eskil asks, eyes wide and innocent. “My good knight, you deserve it! Is there anyone who... whom you wish to be close to, perhaps I could arrange for it so you could spend some time away from battle with them?”

Vincent shakes his head, eyes full of sorrow. “You are so hopelessly kind to say that, my Prince, but I am not married, I have no lover. I fight and die only for you.”

Eskil does his best to express the hope and sadness the young prince would feel at such a statement. “You are so brave, my good knight. If not by granting you time away, how else can I show my appreciation for all that you do?”

Oh damn, Vincent thinks, this is too good. He knows that his Guard might be overstepping a mark with what he says next, but...Esse is so good at this, even a rejection would prove interesting. Vincent locks eyes with his Prince, his expression serious, with just a hint of warmth as he asks: “A kiss?”

Eskil’s eyes widens in shock and he blushes, thankful for once that the normally quite annoying reaction works in his favour now in this role. “... from... from me, good knight?” he asks, whispering.

Vincent swallows hard, and simply nods. Gosh, Esse is adorable like this!

Summoning up all what he remembers from his first kiss, the nerves, the excitement, Eskil leans in and presses a feather light little kiss to Vincent’s lips - so shy, so sweet.

Vincent moves a hand to Esse’s curls, holding him close for the brief kiss, before dropping his hand, making sure he smiles warmly as he replies: “T-Thank you, my Prince!”

Eskil smiles at first, trying to convey the prince’s happiness at sharing a kiss with the man he secretly adores, but then he lowers his eyes and sighs - playing the emotions of a young man who doesn’t dare to think his feelings are returned. “You are welcome, good knight,” he says, almost dejectedly.

“T-That wasn’t your first kiss, was it?” Vincent asks, making sure there is a sense of worry to his voice.

“It was,” the prince admits, voice barely more than a whisper.

“O-Oh, Gods!” Vincent says, a hint of panic in his tone, “My apologies! If I had known, I-I would have never have asked for such a thing! Shit, you must think me so vile…”

“No, no! Of course not, I’d never, how could I?” Eskil babbles and blushes. “It was... nice... more than nice.”

“I-It was wonderful...I…” Vincent trails off, sighing, “I’m sorry, were you not my Prince, or betrothed, I would be...well…” he stops, shaking his head, “No. Forget it. Please, just know that I am sorry for stealing your first kiss so carelessly.”

Eskil looks away, a truly pitiful little whimper leaving his lips. “No, I should be the one to apologize. I shouldn’t have, I should... I... I’m sorry, my good knight, for acting so... unlike a prince.”

Vincent reaches over to squeeze Esse’s hand. “You acted perfectly, I shouldn’t have begged you for a kiss like that. I...I’m such a filthy dog, I know, I’m sorry. Perhaps...I should leave, I think I am only upsetting you.”

Eskil does his best at trying to have his eyes scream ‘Please don’t leave me!’ as he looks back to Vincent. “You did nothing wrong... and you’re not a filthy dog, you’re...” he trails off.

“I’m what?” Vincent asks, in a quiet voice. He thinks that his Guard might be beginning to grow hopeful that he might, just might, be that special someone that the Prince is so smitten with.

Eskil swallows, nervously, before he speaks; “You’re... I’ve been watching you, when you train with your men, when you lay down strategies with the other soldiers - you... you’re always so strong and secure, so... natural at taking the lead and getting things done. We, I, couldn’t hope for a better man to be in our ranks... I... I...” the prince trails off again, blushing crimson. “... it’s you.”

Vincent (and his Guard persona) have no words for that, they simply pull Esse into another kiss--making sure that it is as hopelessly gentle as the first one was. He’s so damned cute! Vincent thinks.

The Prince kisses back, ever so gently and a little clumsily, before pulling back with the blush still in place and the shyest of smiles on his lips.

“I-I notice you watching,” Vincent says, as their lips part, “I-It motivates me to try harder, to please you. I made my way through the ranks dreaming of you, o-of pleasing you, of…” he trails off, swallowing hard.

“You... all of that... because of me?” asks the Esse prince, incredulous but hesitantly pleased.

“All of it,” Vincent’s Guard assures him, “And when my more lewd soldiers talked of taking you, I would tell them to shut their mouths. I...I thought it was just because I knew they were being disrespectful, but I soon realised it was something more...b-because I cared about you. I’m sorry, this is a lot, I’m babbling…”

“... you care about me? Not... not just as your Prince but... more?” the Prince asks.

“Yes, I...I must admit that I am myself confused about it, but...I do have feelings for you. I...can I be horrifically honest with you, my Prince?”

“Please, speak your mind, my good knight,” the prince pleads, hopeful and nervous.

“Sometimes…” Vincent begins, giving Esse’s hand a gentle squeeze, “At night, when I am alone in my tent, weary and wounded from battle, wondering why I was spared from death...I think of you, laying next to me, and it makes everything seem worth it. It...it makes everything easier.” Ha Vincent thinks, perfect.

Eskil smiles. Good one, he thinks as he widens his eyes to seem just as innocent as the prince would be before replying; “Really? You... you think of me like that? I wish I was actually there in those moments, to soothe your aches and to care for you...”

“You are so kind, so gentle. You...you are always welcome in my tent…” Vincent chuckles, smiling warmly at his Prince, wondering how Esse will react to the suggestion of sex.

He blushes, of course, and ducks his head. “I... I’d have a hard time getting to you... you know I’m not allowed on the battlefield.”

Interesting. “It was a joke, my Prince. Though...perhaps I shouldn’t joke about such matters, considering what you have told me about yourself and your...experiences. I’m sorry, I…” Vincent trails off, assuming his Guard would realise that there was no hope for the pair, either romantically or sexually.

“There’s no need to apologise,” Eskil says, sounding a little sad. “It’s... it’s a nice thought if nothing else...”

“If only things were different,” Vincent sighs, “I would take you to bed, and show you how much you mean to me.”

The prince looks away, blinking as if on the brink of tears. “Perhaps I shouldn’t have told you I...” he puts on a very convincing shudder as he whispers; “I’m sorry.”

Esse is such a good little actor--he is breaking Vincent’s heart. For a moment, Vincent wonders if it is not an act, but quickly realises that Esse was not a virgin when they met--this pain cannot be real. “No, no, I would not do anything that you did not want me to,” Vincent assures Esse, moving a hand to stroke through his curls, “I would never harm you.”

He leans into the touch as if he really was the affection-starved prince he’s playing. “But... but you said you... you said ‘if things were different’... I thought you meant you wouldn’t... anything, with me.”

“I-I meant...more about you being a Prince, and being betrothed. It matters not to me whether or not you’re a virgin, though...of course...in my dreams, when I imagined you as so, I was hopelessly gentle with you.”

Eskil bites his lower lip, blushing. “... so, will you let the fact that I am a Prince, and betrothed, stop you from... acting on your dreams?” he asks. Eskil isn’t entirely pleased with this, having to have his shy Prince ask - feeling like if he’d played it more realistically the young royal would never have dared to do so.

Vincent swallows hard, speaking quietly: “If you’ll permit me to, I’ll take you to bed and show you just how much I adore you. And a thousand armies couldn’t stop me, let alone a title, or a promise.”

Eskil looks up through lowered lashes and with the most coy little smile he says; “I permit you... just... just be careful with me?”

Vincent can feel himself growing excited, but he remains stoic and serious, nodding before replying: “You are a Prince, and I shall treat you as such. And...I will ask before I do anything. How does that sound?”

Prince Esse nods and swallows, putting on a fine show of nervous anticipation. “That sounds very reasonable,” he replies.

“Do...do you need time to...prepare, or shall we go through to your bedroom?” Vincent asks, beginning to take the lead.

“I... prepare?” the prince asks as he gets up to follow his guard.

Vincent takes Esse’s hand, gently squeezing, “I mean...do you need a moment to gather your senses, or...groom?” he asks, a little embarrassed.

Eskil’s blush at that wording is actually quite real, and so is the giggle he lets out - but he works into his act seamlessly. “No, uh, and I should hope not...”

Vincent laughs too as they step into the bedroom. “I did not mean to offend!” he chuckles, before taking both of Esse’s hands in his own, standing by the bed. “Now...my sweet, beautiful Prince. I...I think we should perhaps talk, first.”

“Oh,” Esse says, nodding, “yes, perhaps that is a good idea... though... I’m not sure what to say?”

“Well…” Vincent murmurs, smiling, “I have some ideas of what I’d like to do, but...is there anything you think you might enjoy? Otherwise, I thought we could just...explore…”

“I... I wouldn’t know,” the prince admits with another blush and a sheepish smile. “I trust in you though to... to know what to do,” he nods.

Vincent nods, and smiles. “Then we’ll find out what you enjoy as we go. Now...we’re wearing quite a lot of clothes, aren’t we?” he murmurs, moving a little closer to his Prince.

“It... it’d seem so, yes,” the prince swallows, but doesn’t withdraw his hands from Vincent’s to start working on his own clothing - waiting to see if Vincent’s Guard wants to undress his Prince.

Vincent most certainly does want to undress his Prince, and he begins by working on Esse’s shirt, thinking it might be fun to keep the cloaks on for a while longer. “Sweet Prince...I have dreamt of your body…”

“You... you have?” Eskil asks, trying to sound surprised even if he can’t really help himself from leaning in a little to Vincent’s hands working on his shirt.

Vincent tugs the shirt off and gently folds it, placing it down over his desk chair. He is, after all, still a devoted servant of his Prince. He turns back to Esse and lets out a happy little murmur of appreciation. “Look at that beautiful chest of yours...so smooth…”

“You like it?” the Prince asks with a hopeful smile, before blushing and whispering; “You... you could touch it... if you’d like to.”

“I’d love to…” Vincent murmurs, stepping forward to trail his fingers down that beautiful torso, tracing a soft pattern down to Esse’s stomach, where he lets his fingers rest for a moment.

Eskil makes sure to have his inevitable gasp and moan at Vincent’s hands touching his stomach sound surprised. “You ah, have such gentle hands...”

“Of course I do, I’m being gentle like you requested, my Prince…” Vincent says, with a warm smile, before slowly sliding both of his hands up Esse’s sides, half massaging, half exploring.

“Oh... yes of course,” the princeling answers, looking down at those hands moving against his skin. Hesitantly, shyly, he reaches out to touch his Guards beard with gentle fingertips, letting out a surprised and pleased little sigh as his fingers sink into it. “Your beard is so soft...” he murmurs.

“Thank you sweet Prince…” Vincent murmurs, “I forget you’re not used to them. I hope you will find the rest of me to be just as pleasing, even though…” he trails off, looking a little sad.

Worried grey seeks tired brown, the Prince concerned for his Guard as he says; “Even though what?”

“E-Even though I am scarred from battle…” Vincent murmurs, and there’s real sadness in his eyes, real pain. It is, after all, the truth.

The young Prince presses a nervous little kiss to the other man’s lips. “Those scars only proves you’ve served us... me, with bravery and valor. I’ll see them as badges of honour.”

The Guard pulls his Prince into a warm, grateful kiss, hoping that Esse understands that he is really so thankful for those words, even if they are just acting.

Eskil breaks his role, just a little, to kiss back with no nerves and too much skill and warmth and care. Vincent’s scars might not have been gained in defence of a prince in real life - but they are proof of his resilience and marks him as a survivor in Esse’s eyes.

Vincent pulls away, eyes full of warmth and gratitude, and gently strokes through his Prince’s hair as he asks: “Shall we move to your bed? It might make things a little easier, sweet Prince…”

Returning to his act Eskil blushes and smiles ever so shyly. “I... that, yes, let’s...” he nods.

He takes his Prince’s hand, slowly leading him over to the bed--Vincent has removed some of his “nest” elements, taking off a few blankets and cushions--and gestures for his love to lay down. “You have a beautiful room…” Vincent murmurs, making sure Esse knows he is not too upset over his scars to continue the act.

A nod of understanding from Eskil, before the Prince stammers a; “Thank you,” as he lays down on the bed a little awkwardly, Esse really trying to act out a level of nerves he doesn’t feel.

“Relax, sweet Prince…” Vincent murmurs, perching to sit on the side of the bed before slowly sliding off Esse’s shoes and socks, placing them gently on the floor. He rubs his hands over the newly-exposed skin, gently massaging his Prince’s feet with a warm little smile. It’s fun, Vincent thinks, to discover Esse’s body all over again.

Eskil sighs contently at the touch and let’s go a little of his make believe tension. “My strong knight... I never knew a warrior's hands could be so gentle...”

“What would be the point of war, if not to create such peaceful moments at these?” Vincent murmurs, continuing the gentle massage, “I am only rough-handed when someone threatens my country, and my Prince.”*

“I wish the war will soon be over so there can be more moments like this...” says the Prince with the tiniest of moans.

“As do I, my sweet Prince, and I will fight for them, tomorrow,” Vincent murmurs, and smiles at that little moan, “Oh? Are you enjoying this?”

The Prince answers with an embarrassed little nod. “Yes... it’s... it’s very nice,” he says, hiding his smile behind one hand.

Vincent chuckles, before moving his hands to remove his cloak, and then his shirt, folding them both upon the floor, before sitting back up to show his now-bare chest to his Prince.

Eskil’s eyes widen as he let’s out an almost reverent; “So strong, so handsome... and so much hair...”

“Would you like to feel it?” Vincent murmurs, leaning over a little so that his Prince can touch his chest hair, if he so wishes.

“May I?” the Prince asks, but his hand is already making it’s way to his Guard’s chest, gently stroking that most glorious fuzz - and since Eskil knows just how much Vincent enjoys it he let’s his fingers drift against a nipple as well.

The Guard closes his eyes, dropping his head forward and letting out a gentle moan as the Prince brushes against his nipple. “O-Oh, my Prince…”

The Prince looks up with wide eyed wonder at his Guard’s reaction. “You... you enjoy that?”

“I-I adore it, thank you…” Vincent mutters, looking up to smile a warm, content little smile.

The Prince’s hand wanders up from Vincent’s chest, up the side of his neck to gently cup the side of his face. “... kiss me?” he asks, hesitantly.

Vincent smiles, and nods, leaning down to press a soft, gentle kiss to those beautiful, nervous lips. He takes a moment to explore--planting kiss after kiss to Esse’s bottom lip before slowly moving to his top one, as if tasting them for the first time.

Eskil fights the warm smile that wants to take place on his lips at those tender kisses and instead he chooses to gasp - as if he really wasn’t used to being kissed so sweetly.

The Guard pulls away, looking down at his beautiful Prince. “How is that? Are you enjoying it? I’m sorry, my sweet Prince, I know my beard may tickle…” he chuckles.

“It’s a little ticklish,” the Prince admits with a shy grin and a blush, “but it’s so soft... and you, yes, I am enjoying it.”

“I’m glad…” his Guard murmurs, before planting a line of feather-soft kisses across the Prince’s jawline, stopping at his neck to kiss and suck for a moment, exploring the soft skin.

Esse doesn’t hold back his gasps and moans, the Prince wouldn’t be able to so Eskil won’t limit himself. “Oh, oh...”

Vincent looks up at his Prince with mock surprise, eyes wide and a big grin on his face. “I’m not hurting you, am I? Those are...good sounds, my Prince?”

The Prince looks away with an embarrassed blush. “... they are,” he admits with barely more than a whisper.

“Don’t look so ashamed, my sweet Prince,” Vincent murmurs, planting a soft kiss to Esse’s cheek, “It’s...good. All of it. I’m enjoying it, too.”

Eskil looks back, grey eyes uncertain as he asks; “You are? Really?” because why not have the Prince be utterly insecure?

“You don’t think I want this?” the Guard says, eyes full of concern, “I...I dream of you every night, my Prince, truly. I think you nothing less than beautiful.”

“You do? Truly?” The Prince asks, hopeful and nervous. “You have no idea how much that means to me, how much I’ve longed for having you here with me like this...”

“Really?” the Guard asks, in a quiet, hopeful voice, “Tell me more?” He moves to kiss down the Prince’s chest, slowly and gently exploring the soft skin of his nervous lover.

“Ever since I first laid my eyes on you I found you... amazing, the way you look, the way you treat the people around you, how you never let anything get in the way for your loyalty. I... felt drawn to you but never dared hope you saw me as anything but the spoiled little Prince,” Eskil says, making up the story of his role’s feelings as he goes.

“I would never think you spoiled…” Vincent murmurs, pulling his head up to lock eyes with the Prince, “I wanted to say something of my feelings so many times when we were alone, but...so many things stood in my way. Your title, your age, your betrothal, your beauty...I...I was so afraid of you being disgusted with me.”

The Prince blinks, and smiles a little sadly. “If only I had known, if only you had known... so much time we could have had together...”

“Do you remember, last winter, when we were alone, in the war room?” Vincent murmurs, fashioning a story in his mind between soft kisses to Eskil’s torso.

Eskil gasps and nods. “I do, I was so nervous and you... you were so at home there whilst I felt so lost.”

The Guard nods, planting more reassuring kisses to his love’s skin, “But you were so brave, in the end, and then, after the Captain left, and we were truly alone, I...I...God! It took all my strength not to grab you and kiss you.”

“I would have let you,” the Prince replies. “I wanted you... I want you.”

“I wanted to take you over the war table...I-I’m sorry, for speaking so bluntly, but ‘tis true…” the Guard mutters, feeling himself grow more excited.

The Prince whimpers with both excitement and nerves, blushing crimson at his Guard’s confession. “... you could have taken me so easily then, we were alone and you’re a warrior, I wouldn’t have been strong enough to resist you...”

“D-Don’t speak that way, my Prince, you make i-it sound as if I would have forced you.” Vincent murmurs, a little sadness in his eyes.

“No... of course not, that’s not what I meant,” the Prince shakes his head. “I only meant I wouldn’t have been able to resist your charms even if it’d had been a foolish place for such a liaison... anyone could have walked in and seen us - to both our ruin.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, I misunderstood...but...yes, that would have been so foolish, which is why I resisted...as much as I wanted to take you, I...I knew my selfish desires were not worth ruining you over.” The Guard moves his head down, planting one soft kiss to his Prince’s stomach.

Another whimper from the Prince’s lips at that kiss to his stomach - Eskil is of half a mind to beg Vincent to call of their game and just get on with it already - but they’re having fun and Vincent does seem to enjoy this immensely.

“Can I finish undressing you?” Vincent asks, feeling Esse’s need, “I...I can undress myself first, if it would save you some embarrassment.”

“I, eh,” the Prince swallows and nods, “please...”

“Hold on…” the Guard murmurs, planting a quick kiss to his Prince’s stomach, before standing to remove the rest of his own clothes, folding his arms as he stands next to the bed, giving his Prince a moment to survey the Guard’s naked body. Vincent wonders how Esse will play this out--this is probably the Prince’s first time seeing someone else nude, after all.

Eskil is pleased, as always, to see Vincent undressed - but his Prince trails his eyes over the Guards naked form, stopping to stare in awe and slight trepidation at the warriors cock. “... you’re so large,” he says, putting on an act of clear nerves edged with a hint of desire.

“Thank you, my Prince…” the Guard chuckles, moving to perch on the edge of the bed, “Do you mind if I finish undressing you? It’s really not that bad, I promise…” he says, with a reassuring little smile.

The nervous Prince nods, a little lost for words for a moment before he mumbles; “Yes, no, I mean, go ahead...”

The Guard smiles a warm, reassuring smile before sliding off the rest of his Prince’s clothes, neatly folding them upon the floor before turning back to his love with kind, concerned eyes. “How’s that?”

Eskil plays his Prince as being more nervous than he himself is and he tries to cover himself a little, blushing and not meeting his Guards eyes. “... join me?”

The Guard nods, quickly moving to lay next to his Prince, gently patting his chest to offer it as a resting spot.

Oh no, he won’t come around quite so easily, Eskil thinks, letting his nervous Prince just drift a nervous, hesitant hand along one of his Guards arms.

“We don’t have to do anything, just yet. Or at all, if you don’t want to. But I’d like to hold you, if you think that would be alright?” Vincent murmurs, hoping his eyes convey some warmth, some sense of gentleness.

“Oh,” says the Prince and moves a little closer - an invitation for his Guard to take him in his arms. “It’s... it’s just that... I don’t know what to do...”

“You don’t have to do anything…” the Guard murmurs, wrapping his arms around his nervous Prince, “Just...relax. I’ll do everything.”

The Prince leans into his Guard’s embrace, sighing gently, nuzzling a little against the crook of his neck. “I trust you...” he murmurs.

“Thank you, sweet Prince…” his Guard murmurs, kissing through his Prince’s soft curls, “Do you like being close like this?”

The Prince nods and smiles a little shyly. “Yes, I... it feels so safe to be here in your strong arms like this.”

The Guard squeezes his Prince in his arms, before trailing his fingers down his lover’s spine, watching for his reaction to the new movement.

The Prince might not be ticklish, but Esse is and he squirms a little in Vincent’s arms and can’t help but giggle a little.

The Guard lets out a little chuckle, before moving his hand to gently rest on his Prince’s behind, still watching his love’s expression for any signs of discomfort or embarrassment.

The Prince bites his bottom lip, smiling shyly with his eyes lowered - a little embarrassed but leaning even closer against his Guard.

The Guard nuzzles up against his beautiful Prince, murmuring: “You...you have such a cute rear.” Smooth, Vincent thinks.

Ridiculous, Eskil thinks, though the Prince giggles a little nervously at the compliment. “You think so?”

“Very cute,” the Guard says, with a chuckle, “Better than my dreams could have conjured.”

“... what else have you dreamt of?” The Prince asks, nervous but eager to be with his Guard.

“So much…” the Guard murmurs, with a wistful little sigh, “Kissing you all over, taking you in my mouth, letting my fingers explore all over your beautiful body…”

The Prince let’s out a breathy little gasp at that, nervous but wanting. “My strong knight, my most loyal guard... my... my handsome love,” he murmurs.

Vincent turns his head to gaze into Esse’s eyes, murmuring: “My beautiful love…” before embracing him in a soft kiss.

The Prince whimpers and moans into the kiss, parting his lips invitingly to his Guard.

The Guard dares to slide his tongue inside, making sure he remains just as gentle as he shifts his weight, leaning over his Prince.

Leaning back against the bed the Prince brings up a hesitant hand to cup his Guards cheek and shyly urge him to put his weight on top of him.

The Guard shifts to straddle the Prince, pressing his weight down against him as he deepens the kiss, letting out a happy little growl.

The Prince whimpers, arching his back a little, nervous hands gently curling and uncurling at his Guards shoulders.

The Guard pulls back to gently murmur: “I’ve got you, don’t worry…” before slowly, so slowly, sliding a hand up the Prince’s thigh, his thumb tracing against the inside of his leg.

Gasping the Prince looks up at his Guard with wide grey eyes. “Oh, oh my... that’s...” he trails off with a shyly pleased smile.

“It’s what?” the Guard grins, teasing. He stops at the Prince’s balls, looking up into his love’s eyes to see if he should continue.

Closing his eyes the Prince shudders. “It’s lovely,” he whispers, “you’re being so lovely to me...”

Slowly, tentatively, the Guard wraps a hand around his love’s cock. He doesn’t move--just waits, watching, to see if it is too much.

The Prince opens his eyes again with a startled little moan as Eskil tries to convey the shock and pleasure of being touched for the first time.

“How’s that?” the Guard says, in little more than a whisper, “More?”

“G-God, yes, please,” the Prince stammers out, equal parts needing and fretting.

Slowly, the Guard begins to stroke, building up a slow rhythm, still watching his beautiful Prince’s expression to make sure he is comfortable.

Eskil tries to recall what it was like, remembering how hard it was to keep still and not move into the touch - so that’s what he lets his Prince do - move and squirm as he pants and moans.

The Guard smiles, excited to see his young Prince enjoying himself, “Mmm, look at you, you’re beautiful…” he murmurs.

The Prince blushes, opening his mouth to answer but all that comes at first is another moan as Eskil makes sure that Vincent’s Guard is truly getting how much the Prince is enjoying himself - and at the same time how much he is at the other man’s mercy leaving himself completely to the others care. “Feels so good,” he finally whines.

Vincent smiles, wondering if his Guard would dare to use his mouth...hm. Not without asking, he finally decides. “Sweet Prince, can I take you in my mouth?” he murmurs, smiling as his brown eyes meet those beautiful sparkling grey ones.

“... in your mouth?” The Prince echoes, uncertain. “I... yes, if you’d like to.”

“Thank you, sweet Prince…” the Guard murmurs, repositioning himself so that both of his hands are gently resting upon his Prince’s hips, “Please, if it is too much, tell me, but...it will feel good, I promise!” he chuckles.

“Wait,” the Prince says, a hand reaching down to stroke through his Guards hair, “please... a kiss first?”

“Of course,” the Guard says, moving up until he is face-to-face with his love, “You’re a wonderful kisser, you know.”

Lies, Eskil thinks, laughing internally as he has been doing his best to have the Prince be an awkward kisser, too shy and slightly sloppy. “You really think so?” the Prince asks, shyly beaming under his Guard’s praise.

“Yes, you’re amazing. So gentle, so skilled…” the Guard murmurs, pressing his lips to the Prince’s in a gentle, reassuring kiss.

The shy Prince dares to kiss back, though smiles into it a little too much. “You’re so good to me, so kind, so careful,” he mumbles against the Guard’s lips.

“I’m not going to hurt you. I just want to please you. I…” Vincent finds himself getting a little emotional as he thinks about how much Esse means to him, but he uses it as he continues: “If I am to die tomorrow, I would die happily, knowing that I had the chance to show you how much I adore you.”

“Don’t,” the Prince says, voice almost breaking, “please don’t speak like that my love. I need you to live, I need you to... I need you.”

The Guard presses his forehead to his Prince’s, closing his eyes as he murmurs: “I’ll fight for you, you know I will. I...I’ll fight for more moments like these, with you.”

The Prince wraps his arms around his Guard, needing to show the man how much he cares to let his nerves get in the way. “Promise you’ll come back to me?”

Vincent is torn...he knows that, realistically, his Guard wouldn’t be able to keep that promise, but...the Prince needs to hear those words. “I’ll come back to you, I promise. And I will kiss you and hold you and tell you over and over how much I adore you.”

Eskil thinks that their pair would most likely be doomed if this was real life - but it isn’t, it’s just a game and they’re the ones deciding the rules. “Thank you, my love,” the Prince says before giving his Guard a soft shy kiss.

“Here…” the Guard murmurs, reaching for his Prince’s hand, gently placing it on his own fuzzy chest, “My heart is beating only for you, my Prince.” Soppy but it may work, Vincent thinks.

Would it work on a naive young Prince? Certainly! “Oh, my love,” The Prince murmurs as his fingers curl against his Guard’s chest.

“I adore you…” he murmurs, his hand still atop the Prince’s, holding it close to his chest, “I...I know that we are meant to be together, my Prince.” Ooh, the drama!, Vincent thinks.

Is he trying to make me laugh? Eskil wonders. “Forever, my love,” he replies - having a hard time to stick to his role, but powering through it with determination to not be the one to break character.

Vincent knows that this is all getting far too soppy, so he does something a little more lewd, slowly dragging the Prince’s hand down his own stomach, letting the Prince feel the soft hairs that line his skin.

Thank God, Eskil thinks as he once again can have his Prince be the wide-eyed, shy but eager thing he’s been aiming for. “So fuzzy and soft but you’re muscles are so strong...” the Prince murmurs.

Vincent knows this is flattery--his stomach is nowhere near as toned as Esse’s--but he is playing the role of a handsome soldier, after all. “I train every day, to protect you…” the Guard murmurs, dragging his Prince’s hand down to linger so gently on his pubic hair.

The Prince blushes though, unlike Esse, he doesn’t dare move his hand on his own to wrap his fingers around the other man’s arousal. “I’ve seen you train, it’s a... distracting sight,” he admits.

“Is it? You’ve seen me train in the summer months, haven’t you?” the Guard murmurs with a little smile, not moving his Prince’s hand, “When it’s too hot for much clothing?”

“Yes...” the Prince says, a little embarrassed at having been found out. “You’re... you’re so striking when you move, forceful but with grace...”

“You’re so sweet to say so, my Prince...I must give you a private viewing session, soon…” the Guard murmurs, moving the Prince’s hand just a little lower.

The Prince gasps as he can feel the other man. So warm. So large. “You... I... how, how will it ever... you’re so big,” the nervous Prince stammers.

“Don’t worry about that tonight, my sweet, I won’t try that...though...you would be surprised at how much your body can take, once you begin exploring…” the Guard murmurs, not pushing the Prince’s hand any further, for fear of overwhelming him. He removes his hand from the Prince’s, watching to see what he will do.

He smiles nervously but excitedly as he asks; “Will you show me? In the future?” Then the Prince chews on his lip before asking yet another question. “Can I... may I touch you?”

“Of course, I would love that. We can do whatever you want,” the Guard replies, and smiles, nodding his head at the Prince’s second question, “Of course. Please.”

The Prince gingerly wraps his fingers around the Guard’s cock, looking up with approval seeking grey eyes. “Should I... stroke you?”

The Guard lets out a happy little moan, and nods. “Please, if you want to.”

Smiling shyly the pleased little Prince moves his hand, his touch so soft - almost hesitant - but quite eager to please.

“H-Ha...oh Gods, my Prince, thank you…” the Guard murmurs, growling a little in his happiness.

“Is it... does it feel, um, nice?” The Prince asks, keeping up his ministrations.

“It feels amazing, you’re doing wonderfully my Prince…” the Guard pants, doing his best to stay still so that the young Prince can explore.

Being perhaps a little bolder than the Prince really ought to be Eskil firms his hold a bit more and begins to stroke the man in earnest - they’re just playing and surely there’s no harm in breaking character just a little for the sake of pleasure. “My strong handsome Guard,” the Prince murmurs.

Vincent just moans and grunts and growls for a minute or so, lost in pleasure, before realising that he promised to suck a certain young Prince’s cock. “H-Ha, my Prince, please...let me return the favour, like I promised before our kiss?”

“Oh,” the Prince says, his hand stilling, “yes, yes of course...”

“Thank you…” the guard says, panting, “And...uh...if you need to spend, don’t hold back, I’ll handle it…” he chuckles.

Vincent is making it easy for Eskil to blush with the way he phrases his words - and the Prince goes crimson at that. “I, eh, oh...” he stutters out with an embarrassed little smile.

“It’s fine, really. Means I’m doing a good job…” the Guard chuckles, before moving himself back down in position, hands once again gently resting upon his love’s hips.

“... you are,” the Prince whispers as he hesitantly strokes through his Guard’s hair - wanting to show his appreciation though unsure how to do so properly. “You are doing such a good job...”

“Mm…” the Guard murmurs, happily, nuzzling up against the soft touch, “That feels lovely. And thank you, really…” he says, before inhaling and gently--so gently--moving his head to lick up the length of the Prince’s cock.

The Prince cries out in surprised pleasure, struggling to keep his hips still. “You... I didn’t know, didn’t know it could feel like this...”

The Guard lifts his head, smiling: “Feel like what, my Prince?”

“So...” he pants, “so much, so... intense. G-God you... I can’t believe this, am I dreaming?”

“No, my Prince…” the Guard chuckles, shaking his head, “This is real and I am here with you, in bed. And I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself, but...we’ve only just begun.” Nice, Vincent thinks, getting exciting!

The Prince whimpers at that, needy, lustful but a little overwhelmed and anxious about what’s to come. Esse thinks it makes sense that the Prince would need reassurance. “O-Oh, you... I...”

“Are you alright, my Prince? I just meant...taking you, in my mouth. If you don’t mind?” the Guard asks, and Vincent suppresses a laugh at the polite cock-sucking question.

Eskil considers his options, he could have the Prince freaking out a bit - but ugh, they’ve drawn this out quite a bit already and he’s quite eager to move on. Then again he is supposed to portray a virgin, a nervous one at that - and he’s willing to sacrifice some speed for doing it right. The long quiet pause fits quite well, he thinks, with the way the Prince would react and he’s quite satisfied with the effect as he whispers; “Please...”

“If you want me to stop, please say. It won’t hurt, I promise. You don’t need to do anything…” the Guard smiles, trying to reassure his lover, “I just want to make you feel good.”

The Prince nods, and moves his hands to gently rest them on his Guard’s shoulders. “I trust you...”

“Thank you, sweet Prince…” the Guard murmurs, before ducking his head to take the Prince in his mouth, not moving or pushing down just yet--just waiting for Esse’s reaction to his supposed first time having his cock sucked.

He deliberately moves his hands from Vincent’s shoulders down to the top of his arms as the Prince grips him hard, and Esse would rather not put any stress on Vincent’s shoulders or back with fingers digging in. He curls up a little, all the better to look down at Vincent as the Guard with eyes blown wide, both from the very real desire he feels and as part of the act, as he let’s the Prince cry out from pleasure.

Vincent likes that slight pain on his arms, and the Guard does too. Seeing his Prince so excited, the Guard begins to suck, bobbing his head but keeping his eyes locked to his Prince’s, watching to see how his love is reacting to the new sensation.

The Prince moans and whines as he throws his head back against the pillows, consumed by the allegedly new experience. Eskil is putting on a good show of having the Prince losing control, writhing and squirming - though every move he makes is calculated to not throw them off too much.

Vincent wants to just carry on until Esse spends, but he knows that his Guard would be eager to check how the young Prince was doing, so he pulls his head up with a slightly gross-sounding wet slurp, smiling up at the Prince. “How is that feeling? Want me to carry on?” he chuckles, excited.

Arrgh, so cruel, Eskil thinks, stopping like that. But the Prince moans and pants. “Please, my Guard, my love, please... need you!”

The Guard smiles and nods before ducking his head to get back to work, moving more quickly, urging his young Prince to spend. As he bobs his head, the Guard reaches down to stroke himself, realising that he’ll probably have to finish himself off, whatever happens.

Eskil’s glad to notice Vincent is taking care of himself since he’d have a hard time justifying the Prince to be able to do so once he’s finished. Then he stops his thinking and just focuses on being the Prince and experience what he’s experiencing. “My Guard, my love,” he pants, breathless and a little desperate. He’s close, so close.

Vincent can feel Esse’s muscles tensing and is so excited to see what he will do when he spends, so he moves more quickly, just focusing on bringing his Prince over the edge and tasting him for the first time.

The Prince screams as he curls and tenses, spending in his Guard’s mouth, almost crying from the intensity of his release.

The Guard swallows quickly, sucking for a few moments before slowly pulling away. He moves to his Prince’s side, offering himself as a source of comfort, should one be needed. Vincent thinks that this would be a quiet, emotional moment, so he doesn’t say anything lascivious, doesn’t laugh or grin. He just strokes through the Prince’s hair, watching his love recover.

He curls up against the Guard’s chest, making himself small, as the Prince shivers with aftershocks. The Prince would be lost for words, so all Esse says is; “My love, my love,” over and over.

“I’ve got you, I’ve got you…” the Guard murmurs, stroking through the Prince’s curls, holding him close. “Thank you, for letting me do that. It was wonderful. You’re wonderful…”

The Prince looks up with shiny grey eyes, a hand reaching up to brush against the Guard’s beard. “So are you, you’re the loveliest, the most caring...” and the overwhelmed Prince presses the softest of kisses to his love’s lips before asking; “... what about you?”

“What do you mean?” Vincent murmurs, thinking the Guard would be a little too concerned with his Prince’s well-being to think about that.

Swallowing hard the Prince says; “You... you’re not, um, done... not, not like me, you haven’t... finished...” Eskil thinks that the Prince would care about that even if he wouldn’t really know what to do about it.

“Oh!” the Guard smiles, planting a soft kiss to his Prince’s forehead, “You’re sweet to think of me. I can finish myself off, if you don’t mind me doing so here?”

A shy but happy smile spreads on the Prince’s lips as he replies; “Of course I don’t mind.”

“Thank you, sweet Prince…” the Guard murmurs, before moving a hand to stroke his own cock, letting out a content little sigh of relief.

The Prince might not give a helping hand, but his fingers travel down his Guard’s neck, down to his chest - drifting across the fuzz and occasionally brushing against Vincent’s nipples.

The Guard groans at the contact, closing his eyes as he works up a steady rhythm--he’s very excited from their playing, and he knows his own body so well--this won’t take long at all.

Eskil increases his efforts, wanting to bring Vincent over the edge to, and he might just drop the Prince act a little once again in favour of pleasure. Their game has been wonderful - but Eskil is exhausted from having had to play such a nervous and worried young thing.

It doesn’t take long for Vincent to spend a large load all over his own stomach, growling and panting and groaning as he finally releases, shaky breaths escaping his lips.

Eskil’s back to being the Prince for a few last moments as he murmurs; “O-Oh, I... that felt good, no? My love, so, so powerful.”

“Amazing, sweet Prince…” Vincent murmurs, a little sadly as he realises that their game is now ending, “Thank you for letting me lay with you.”

“I should thank you, my beloved Guard,” the Prince mumbles, “for caring for me like this.”

“Please, my sweet Prince, before I clean up, I...I have something I must ask of you. May I stay the night, here? I must leave for battle in the morning, but…” the Guard trails off.

“Please, please stay. It’ll hurt seeing you go... knowing you’re leaving to fight and maybe...” the Prince sniffles, “but I want you here with me until we must part.”

“I made a promise, remember? But tonight I’ll hold you until dawn’s light, and marvel at your beauty…” the Guard murmurs. Soppy, Vincent thinks, but true.

It’s tempting to come with a snappy retort about how he should clean himself up first before holding him - but that wouldn’t be in character at all and Eskil holds his tongue. “It’s all I ever wanted, to be warm and safe in your arms...”

“Mm...I should wash myself, my Prince, but...you get cosy. I’ll return shortly…” the Guard smiles, and plants a kiss to his Prince’s forehead. As Vincent moves to stand, he realises that is probably the end of their game.

Once Vincent’s out of the bed Eskil stretches out on it with a wide warm smile. “That was fun,” he chuckles.

“That was amazing!” Vincent calls from the bathroom, quickly washing himself before walking back to stand by the side of the bed, eyes alight with excitement and passion. “We have to do it again! I have so many ideas!”

Eskil laughs, delighted by Vincent’s excitement - though drained from the acting. “Tell me about them?” he asks, patting the spot beside him invitingly.

“Yes! Oh, you’re such a good actor!” Vincent beams, quickly clambering up onto the bed, snuggling up next to Esse before pulling a blanket up around the both of them. “Alright…” he begins, “So I think the Guard would survive the battle but like...realise how much he wanted to be with the Prince? So he’d ask him to run away?” Vincent is still very, very careful not to use the word “love”.

Eskil smiles as he realises that Vincent really does have plans for a continuation that goes deeper than just ‘and then they have more sex’. He nuzzles up against Vincent’s chest, glad to finally not having to blush and be hesitant about being close with his lover even if it was amusing to play it out. “How romantic,” he chuckles softly. “How would the Prince react do you think, would he leave his kingdom behind for his love?”

Vincent strokes through Esse’s hair, lost both in the afterglow and the excitement of creating a story, “I...I think he might be hesitant? But I mean...he did sleep with the Guard even while betrothed, so he can’t be that concerned...what do you think?”

“Well...” Eskil says before he’s interrupted by a yawn, “oh, sorry. I think there might be a difference between having a secret affair with his love and leaving his duties as Prince behind?” he asks, but quietly scolds himself for even putting up the slightest of protest seeing how Vincent is so excited about the idea and he himself is rather tired out.

“Mm, good point...an illicit affair is quite...well...attractive, in a certain sense, but I don’t think the Guard wants him just for his body. Maybe the Prince would be convinced by the idea of freedom? What if he had a sibling or a cousin who would take over his duties?” Vincent babbles, excited.

Eskil shudders as those words hits a little too close to home, but he brushes those thoughts away with a smile and a nod. “That could work,” he says, “and the Prince is rather head over heels for his Guard.”

“Yes! And the Guard would offer him protection,” Vincent continues, not noticing Esse’s shudder, “And arrange their travel, and their transport...they would sleep in taverns, and in tents! Ooh that would be fun!”

Eskil blinks and smiles a little confusedly. “You’re not saying that you actually want to, uh, sleep in tents, do you?”

“Oh...no, I just meant play it out. I’m not really sure that London is the best place for camping…” Vincent laughs.

The Swede grins and shakes his head. “Probably a little too damp for that, yes.” He yawns yet again and leans a little more against Vincent. “Mmm... so many possibilities,” he says - meaning ‘let’s talk more about this later, I rather need some sleep.’

Vincent doesn’t pick up on Esse’s need to sleep--his mind still racing. “And they still have so much to find out about each other! Maybe the Guard was married once, or had his heart broken, or...or maybe he’s never been in love!”

“Mmm,” Eskil murmurs with a soft smile, grey eyes blinking sleepily. Vincent’s excitement is rather endearing, but he can’t keep up with it.

“And I wonder how long the Prince has been watching him...they should reminisce about all the times they nearly took the plunge and kissed!” the older man continues to talk excitedly, unable to stop grinning.

Eskil closes his eyes as he pats Vincent’s chest lazily, almost about to drift off. “... sure sweetheart, whatever you say,” he mumbles.

Vincent finally, finally realises that his Esse is tired, and he looks down at his love with a warm, caring smile. “I’m sorry, you need your rest after your big performance.”

“Was fun,” Eskil murmurs with a soft smile, “we can plan tomorrow?”

“I’ll plan in my mind tonight, and you can help me tomorrow…” Vincent chuckles, kissing through Esse’s curls, “G’night, sweet thing. Thank you, again.”

“Mmm,” Esse hums as he nuzzles up closer, making himself comfortable against his fuzzy, warm and live pillow, “g’night...”

“Sleep well, my beautiful little Prince…” Vincent murmurs, unable to stop smiling. He is so, so lucky to have a lover who will let him fantasise, let him live out another life where he can care for his handsome young Prince. Vincent might not be a strong, young Guard, but he is just as fiercely protective as any Knight would be. He plants a final kiss to Esse’s forehead, watching the young man drift off into sweet slumber.