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Chapter Text

Three years. Greagor, it didn’t feel real. How was it possible it was three years since Clive, Joshua, and Dion had walked away from the Hideaway and not come back?

The last three years felt like a dream sometimes to Gav. When Origin fell, they all knew the fight against Ultima was over but none of the three Dominants ever returned. At first they had waited but weeks went by and there was no sign or rumor of any of them. Weeks turned to months and slowly the Hideaway moved on into mourning. The only one still watching for them was Torgal.

The hound had sat on the docks waiting for months. Jill tried to get him to come inside and eat and sleep. Charon tried to tempt him with bones. Gav had finally sat with him for three days and at the end of it, he had stood up and called him softly and Torgal had raised himself dejectedly and with his tail drooping between his legs and his head hung low, followed Gav into the Hideaway.

Torgal had taken to following Gav around as if he expected the man to disappear like Clive had. Like Cid had. Like Clive had a second time. He was always at Gav's side and slept at the end of his bed. Clive's bed.

The Hideaway had insisted. First they had tried to give the rooms to Jill but she refused, said that the room and the things in it deserved to go to their leader. And they all turned to Gav. He had tried to turn it down. But everyone, even Otto, insisted it was what Clive would want. What Cid would want.

Gav almost hated them all for that. For trying to put him up on a pedestal with those two beautifully perfect men. Not as much as he almost hated Jill though. For laughing and moving on and coming out of her shell after Clive died. Like she was now.

Gav was watching the Hideaway prepare for their yearly celebration of the destruction of Origin with a feast. The land without the Mothercrystal's leeching the aether from the land was blossoming with new life again and they had enough to spare. even with their higher numbers from increased rescues of Bearers. Even without their magic there were unscrupulous people still willing to use them as hard slave labor or worse yet just kill them. They weren’t useful any longer so they were just a mouth to feed in a dying land. The Cursebreakers had interrupted their fair share of slaughters in the past years.

And now they were all laughing and singing and decorating and Jill was there helping Tarja decorate the tables with centerpieces and singing like the world didn't fall apart and the best of them were dead. It felt like Gav was the only one who remembered, really remembered, Clive and Cid and even Joshua and Dion. Oh they said their speeches of remembrance but they also celebrated the moment of their deaths like it was some victory to be lauded instead of a loss of the most extraordinary lives and men and leaders Gav had ever had the privilege of knowing. Of loving. Even in secret.

He turned away from the tavern at his spot in front of Clive's room and turned to lean on the railing backwards, staring at the door to his room, Clive's room. His teeth clenched as the refrain of the song rose up and Torgal looked up at him sadly as Gav pushed off the railing and slipped unnoticed down the stairs towards the lift. Torgal, as always, at his heel. The Blightwater had faded into regular water and without the Blight eating away at the wood, they had gathered several more boats. Gav had considered building a settlement on the shoreline as the land regained it's life and potency if only to dig out a space for when the border disputes started.

Gav took one of the smaller row boats and as he pushed off, Torgal lept in, as eager to get away from the happy noise as Gav was. Or maybe that was just Gav. He tied up the boat at the dock and slipped away from the stables. Ambrosia had shown up not long after Origin, looking, it seemed, for Clive. No doubt wondering why she and her flock had not been called on. She'd been as depressed as Torgal and while she refused to stay in the stables, she was often seen in the area with her flock as if she too were waiting.

Gav didn't see her now as he and Torgal headed out. He planned to only be gone a few days, scout out some resources or the still enslaved Bearers to free and return when the celebration died down. To that end, it didn't much matter which direction he chose to head in so he picked at random and headed out.

The land was littered with Fallen ruins near the Lake Bennumere region and none of them had ever shown any signs of life. Until today?

Gav slowed as he caught sight of light coming from one of the ruins. White light. White as Bahamut's light. Definitely not from a torch or fire. He drew his sword as he slowly approached. The door was open into the ruin and Gav looked down to Torgal to judge if he saw a threat in the ruin before he entered. The halls were empty except for the light trailing in lines through the walls. He followed the light to a large open room and paused before he entered.

Torgal and Gav entered together and spun as the wall slid closed behind them, trapping them in the large hall with no other way out. Gav pounded on the wall where they had just entered but he couldn't see or feel any way out. It was solid.

The light was also getting brighter. Brighter and brighter until he felt blinded. Gav reached for Torgal and as the light went out like someone blew out a match, he wrapped an arm around Torgal's neck and held on. They had been standing in pure light and now they stood in pure darkness as the floor dropped out from under them and Gav screamed as they fell, holding on tighter to Torgal with both arms when it felt like they were going to be separated.

They finally landed with a thump, Gav's head making hard impact with the ground behind him before the light returned for a moment and then spun out into darkness again. He heard Torgal whine before the darkness took him under completely.

Chapter Text

"Mister. Mister, are you dead?"

Gav groaned as he felt something poke him in the shoulder and a small huff from Torgal next to him.

"Mister, can I pet your dog if you're dead?"

Gav blinked open his eyes and looked around for the source of the young boy's voice that woke him.

"Oh," the voice said sounding disappointed. "You're not dead."

"Sorry to disappoint," Gav answered and held his aching head as he shook the cobwebs from his mind. "Where are we?" he asked, looking over to the boy and freezing.

"Just outside Frostwyke," the boy answered.

"Frostwyke," Gav repeated numbly.

"Aye, in the Northern Territories. Did you hit your head, mister? Mama says that's why Devon forgets things, cause he was dropped on his head too often," the boy asked.

"Aye, I think I must have," Gav answered, still in shock. He was looking at… himself? Young him. Eight year old him. Eight year old him just before Sanbreque invaded. He had gotten that scratch over his eye the morning of, while playing. While playing… while Sanbreque destroyed the village.

No, Gav thought as he stood up shakily and headed toward the village. He was rushing, leaving himself behind but… he had to. If he could get there in time. If he could just…

He broke into a run as Torgal and his young self followed him, his run turned into a sprint as he heard screaming and just before he burst through the trees, he pushed his younger self into the crook of a tree, the tree he knew would hide him from the Imperials.

"Stay here," Gav ordered.

"But," younger him protested.

"Gavish, you stay," Gav said sternly and his boyhood self went quiet and let himself be pushed into the tree's crevice. "I'll come back for you."

Gav waited for a nod from himself before he took off again, drawing his sword and bursting into the chaos of a village in distress. The Imperials were setting the village alight and there were already bodies on the ground. Gav ignored the sight of his elder brothers, eyes open in death as they stared unseeing at the flames. He rushed towards the Imperials and took several out in the surprise of a villager who would fight back. It was hard to keep up with only one of him and a crowd of them but there was, surprisingly, not a full squadron of men. Only a few dregs that were there to keep their movements hidden.

By the time Gav took down the last Imperial with Torgal's help, the village was silent except for the crackling of the fires on the wooden beams of their homes. Gav rushed to his home, his old home. Even after all this time he knew the way like he had never left. He tried to push open the door but it was stuck fast. Barricaded. The trail of blood outside the door told him whoever was inside was injured and in his panic he kicked the door down. Whether this was real or some trick of the Fallen, he had to try to save them.

More bodies. His sisters, faces a rictus of pain and blood staining their clothes and sides from their place in front of the barricade.

"Please," he would recognize that voice anywhere. His mother. He walked slowly into the house, eyes darting around to try to see if there were any Imperials who made it through. All he saw was his family. Dead.

"Hello?" He called out as he made his way from the front room to the back where the kitchen was. "I'm here to help."

"Please, Shiva, save us," his mother called out again.

Gav caught sight of her trying to hide, there was blood on her forehead from a slice across her skull and she was cradling his father's body against her heavily pregnant belly.

"Hey," he said softly, putting his sword away. "I'm not with them. Are you alright?" He crouched down in front of her and watched her stare at him, eyes wide in shocked recognition.

"Gav?" she said.

"What he'll become, at least," Gav answered. "Mum," he swallowed, eyes blurring.

"How?" she asked.

"I don't know. I don't know if you're real. But I've missed you. All of you," Gav said.

"They're dead," she said simply.

Gav nodded regretfully.

"Then it's up to you," she said. "I'm not going to make it either," she pointed out a deep wound that was still bleeding heavily on her left side, high on her chest. "Please, save my baby."

Gav stared in sadness at the blood and wiped his eyes. "What do I need to do?"

"You'll need to cut them out," she said.

"That'll kill you faster," Gav reminded her.

"I know," she told him.

"Torgal, get Gav," he told the wolf and Torgal huffed but darted out of the house.

"He made it?" she asked, crying herself now.

"He's fine," Gav assured. "What about after? I don't know how to take care of a baby."

"You'll figure it out. They'll need milk. Take one of the goats. Don't stay here," she warned.

"I won't," Gav agreed.

"You'll take care of them?" she asked, intently.

"Like my own," Gav promised.

"You're so handsome," she said, cupping his cheek instead of his father.

Gav turned into the hand and felt the tears overflow his eyes for a moment before she wiped them away.

"Hurry. If I die, they'll die," she warned him.

Gav nodded and helped her lay back against the wall and drew his dagger. He forced his hand to not shake as he gripped it and prepared to slice into her belly.

"Mum," he heard his younger self call out.

"Gav, honey," she said and held a hand out past Gav's shoulder.

He heard soft footsteps rushing towards them before he saw himself throwing himself to the ground next to his mother. The boy looked at him betrayed as he eyed the dagger.

"Gav," his mother said. "He's going to take care of you from now on."

"What?" the boy asked, crying heavily.

"He has to get your sibling out, Gav. And you need to help him with them. You're going to be such a good big brother. You know how," she assured.

"But," young Gav protested.

"If he doesn't take them out, neither of us will make it. Be good for me, Gav. You're going to be such a wonderful man one day. You'll make me so proud," she said.

Gav sniffed loudly and wiped his eyes again.

"Go on," she told him, meeting his eyes with a fearful but steady look.

Gav nodded and reached forward to place his hand on her belly and felt his sibling kicking against her. He placed the knife against her and sliced in, blood overflowing the wound. He was careful. going deeper slowly until there was clear water with the blood and cut across her stomach.

She cried out as he cut into her but was steady and still otherwise, holding onto young Gav's hand and holding his head to her chest as they both cried.

Once there was a large enough gash in her belly, he reached in to find the baby and pull it out. They were connected by a cord to her and he reached up to take one of the ties out of his hair, leaving it bloody to tie around the cord at her direction and sliced it in two so the baby could be taken out.

His mother was fading so he cleaned the baby with a towel set nearby as best he could and laid his sister (it was a sister) in her weak arms. She bounced the baby slightly as he reached to clear out their mouth until they started to cry.

"What's her name?" Gav asked her.

"Mayra," his mother said softly. "Right, Gav?" she asked.

"Mayra," young Gav agreed. "You said I couldn't name them," he protested.

"I think it fits her," his mother said. "She's your responsibility now."

Both Gav's sniffed, trying to keep their tears quiet. She was fading quickly.

"Gav," Adult Gav said, "Go get some blankets and clothes for her," he directed softly as their mother's hold on their sister grew too weak and Gav had to help her hold the baby.

"I love you, sweetheart," their mom said before the young boy left. "I love all of you," she added as she looked down at the baby in her arms.

"I'll keep them safe," Gav promised as his younger self left the room.

"I know," she answered, eyes closing as it got harder to hold herself up.

Gav was back quickly, the blankets and clothes their mother and sisters had made being stacked in the other room for this moment.

"Mum," young Gav cried.

"Be good for me," she said softly as Gav crawled into her side to weep.

"Promise," young Gav said.

"Love you," she murmured as the last breath left her body and she passed to the cries of two children in three bodies.

Gav let them all stay there for several long moments before he moved to wrap Mayra in the blankets and clean her up further. He laid her down next to himself and moved to find the bottles that he vaguely remembered they had. Gav himself had been a fussy eater from what he remembered them all teasing him about when he was going on about being a big brother. He found them after a brief search and washed them out as much as he could and then left to hunt down one of the goats. The animals were all in a panic and no one was left alive to soothe them so it took some time but Gav managed to get the goat and milk her before heading back inside and trying to get Mayra to eat.

His younger self was still sitting, weeping next to their mother.

"Gav," he said softly. It felt so strange to call his own name but he was going to have to get used to it. And maybe find himself another name to avoid confusion. What would he even change his name to?

"Who are you?" younger Gav asked.

"I'm… your uncle," Gav answered. "Horus," he introduced himself.

"No you're not," Gav protested.

"I am now," Horus told him.

Gav looked up at him and sniffed.

"I'm sorry, lad," Horus said. "But we need to move. I know where they are headed and if we want to stop them killing even more, we need to get there before they do."

"Where are they going?" Gav asked.

"Rosaria," Horus told him. "Come on," he reached down to help Gav to his feet with one hand, Mayra being held in his other.

"Rosaria?" Gav asked. "What's in Rosaria?"

"For us? A future. For them?" Horus said. "Betrayal." He grabbed his dagger once Gav was on his feet and sent him off to pack a small bag of supplies. Gav washed his dagger off and put it back on his hip feeling like he was in a dream. He didn't know how this was real and, now that the adrenaline of the fight was wearing off, it was something to be concerned with but he had to keep moving. He knew where those Imperials were going. He had realized once he had gotten older and put the dates together. Phoenix Gate. He may not be able to save his family. But he was going to save Clive's. No matter what.

Chapter Text

Elwin Rosfield enjoyed riding. He enjoyed being on the road. Mostly as an excuse to get away from his wife but also as a way to get some semblance of freedom from a throne he hadn't really wanted but took through duty. And being on the road was made much better with his close friend, his loyal Shields, and his sons. In this case his youngest son as Clive would be joining them later that night at the keep.

He did not, though, let his enjoyment of travelling dull his senses and so called a halt quickly and situated his chocobo between the rustling bushes and his son, Rodney taking his place between both of them and the potential danger.

"Gav, get back here," a voice called as a young boy burst through the bushes chasing a goat. The boy, Gav presumably, froze as he saw the weapons pointed at him.

"Uncle Horus," the boy screamed and then the sound of running and a wolf lept from the bushes to stand in front of the boy followed by a man with a sling around his chest and a sword in his hand. They both positioned the boy behind them and leveled the sword at the crowd before them.

Elwin could see the man's eyes darting among the crowd, assessing, and the wolf growling lightly interspersed with whines.

"Stand down, Sir," Elwin shouted at them.

The man's eyes jumped up to Elwin and he squinted in what looked like confusion and then his eyes widened. His sword drooped.

"Do I have the honor of addressing Archduke Elwin Rosfield?" The man asked.

"Depends on who is asking," Elwin told him.

The man lowered his sword completely and his hound relaxed minutely.

"Uncle," the boy said softly.

"I come bearing news," the man said. "But only for His Grace and his most trusted."

"Regarding?" Elwin demanded.

"Something the rest of your Shields don't need to know," the man said pointedly.

"Put your sword away," Elwin demanded, "and we can talk."

The man looked around suspiciously but he slowly put it away and stepped back with his nephew behind him and one hand holding the sling wrapped around his chest.

Elwin slowly dismounted with Rodney.

"Father," Joshua said nervously.

"Stay here, Joshua," Elwin ordered and one of the Shields, Sir Tyler's brother, came to grab Joshua’s reins to keep his bird steady.

"But," Joshua started to protest but Elwin shot him a pointed look and he silenced.

Elwin and Rodney approached side by side as the man took several more steps backwards with his nephew. They stopped about ten paces from their mounts and Horus, as the young boy had called him, stopped as well.

"I hate to be the Bearer of ill news, Your Grace," Horus began, voice soft enough to not carry, "but you are betrayed."

"Explain," Elwin demanded.

"We come from Frostwyke in the Northern Territories and we have rushed to warn you. Sanbrequois soldiers killed and burnt our village to the ground to hide their movements. I heard them say they had to get to Phoenix Gate to fulfill Her Grace's commands to kill you and your eldest son. They named her. Said they had slipped spies and traitors amongst your number," Horus told him seriously.

"And why should we believe you?" Elwin asked suspiciously.

"Because it will be easily proven tonight when they attack the keep. And with forewarning and easy preparations, you may yet survive," Horus said.

"And I suppose you want us to take you with us?" Rodney asked.

"Yes. I'll go in chains if necessary. But they will need cared for by someone else then," Horus agreed.

"They?" Rodney asked.

"Uncle Horus," Gav protested, fearfully.

"It's alright, Gav," Horus soothed, turning to kneel in front of him. "They won't hurt a child. But you'll have to look after Mayra for me. Can you do that?" Horus asked.

Gav nodded steadily even as he sniffled, fighting back fearful tears.

Horus reached into his sling and took out the swaddled infant of his sister. "You remember how I taught you to hold her?"

"Yes, Uncle," Gav said and let Horus put Mayra into his arms.

"There you are, watch her head. Good lad," Horus praised, ignoring Elwin and Rodney for the moment and their shocked expressions.

"How old is she?" Elwin asked.

Horus looked up at the sky to judge the height of the sun and length of the shadows. "Ten hours," he answered finally.

"So young," Rodney commented.

"I had to cut her from her mother's belly or they would both have been lost," Horus admitted, voice rough with unshed tears. He took a moment before he stood up and approached Elwin and Rodney slowly, hands held out as if offering his wrists to be bound.

"Do you know how to ride, lad?" Elwin asked, looking beyond Horus to little Gav.

"No, Sir," Gav answered.

"If I put you on a bird with my son, can you hold on?" Elwin continued.

"I can try, Sir," Gav answered.

"Rodney, can you take the baby?" Elwin asked.

"No," Gav protested loudly, holding Mayra closer and turning away as if to hide her.

"Lad," Elwin tried to soothe.

"No, she's my responsibility. Mum said so. I promised," Gav said and he was finally not able to hold the tears back.

"Gav," Horus said softly. "It's alright. I'm sure His Grace won't let anything happen to her."

"But Mama said," Gav protested.

"I know what she said," Horus said softly. "She said I was going to look out for you, right?" Horus asked.

"Yeah," Gav agreed.

"That must mean she trusted me, right?" Horus asked.

"Yeah," Gav agreed softly.

"And do you trust me?" Horus continued.

Gav paused before he nodded. "Uh huh."

"Can you trust that I wouldn't let them hurt you?" Horus asked.

Gav nodded again.

"Can you trust that I trust them?" Horus pushed.

Gav sniffled as he nodded.

"Let the Lord Commander make sure Mayra stays safe," Horus said. "Can you do that for me?"

Gav hesitated before he finally nodded and turned back to face the adults.

Rodney approached slowly and knelt down to take the baby gently into his arms when she started to fuss and cry.

"It's okay, Mayra," Gav soothed earnestly.

"She's just hungry, Gav," Horus soothed. "She'll be fine."

"Rodney?" Elwin asked.

"He's right," Rodney said.

"We had a goat," Gav said. "But she ran off. I tried to catch her but…"

"We saw. You were running awfully fast," Rodney praised.

"If we don't have milk, Mayra doesn't have anything to eat. Can we go after her?" Gav asked.

"I'll send a Shield out to catch her," Elwin promised and offered Gav his hand to take.

Gav watched it suspiciously before casting a glance at Horus who nodded and taking Elwin's hand to be led back toward the squadron of Shields.

"Father?" Joshua called as he saw them coming back.

"I need you to help Gav ride to Phoenix Gate, Joshua. Can you do that for me?" Elwin asked.

"Of course, Father," Joshua agreed and made room for Gav in front of him in the saddle.

"Up you go, lad," Elwin said and bent to pick Gav up to put him in the saddle with Joshua. "Thank you, Sir Petyr."

"Of course, Your Grace," The Shield that had been holding Joshua's reins said before retaking his place in the squadron.

"Here," Horus said as he slowly reached up to untie the sling to offer to Rodney.

Elwin cast them a glance before he called for Petyr and another Shield to go after the goat. The hound that had accompanied Horus went with them. He looked so familiar but Elwin couldn't place him.

Horus helped Rodney get the young babe situated in the sling across Rodney's chest before letting himself be surrounded and disarmed. Elwin heard a bleat from off to the side before a small commotion and then Petyr came back onto the road with the other Shield, the goat slung across the other man's shoulders.

The wolf followed and loped gracefully over to Horus' side.

"Hey boy," Horus said. "You're gonna be good for them, right T-Hati?" the man asked, elongating the final 't' of right as he stuttered over the wolf's name.

The wolf tilted his head and then moved to sit next to the man and looked up at him.

"He's a fine hound," Elwin said and then frowned in confusion. That felt familiar too. The wolf's ears pricked up and then the sound of small yapping sounded from down the road behind them.

Elwin looked behind them with a raised brow as the Shields began chuckling lightly and moving out of the way of something. Finally Torgal broke through the ranks of Shields and Elwin sighed, rolling his eyes as the pup approached and then stopped, studying the wolf sitting at Horus' side.

"He's adorable," Horus enthused, resting his bound wrists on Hati's head and scratching him in the… white… spot. The white spot… that matched… Torgal's? That… couldn't be. Could it?

Elwin shook his head at the thought. That was impossible. Best not dwell on it.

Torgal dropped to his belly and crawled towards the larger wolf who watched him patiently before he shook off Horus' hands and moved forward to sniff the puppy. He circled the nervous pup before picking it up by it's scruff and dropping it at Horus' feet.

"Find yourself a new companion?" Horus teased as he knelt to let the puppy sniff his hands.

Torgal sniffed and then yipped beforetrying to climb on him.

"I think you need to give him back to his family, Hati," Horust said.

Hati just laid down, one large foreleg coming down to hold the puppy in place as he took to grooming it.

Horus sighed. "You know we are on our way somewhere, Hati." He reached forward gently to pick up the puppy and offered him to Elwin.

Elwin took the puppy, amusedly and passed him up to Gav. "Can I trust you to two boys to look after Torgal for me?"

"Yes, Father," Joshua said.

"Yes, Sir," Gav agreed and took Torgal into his arms and held him tightly enough he wouldn't get dropped or wiggle free.

"Good," Elwin said. "If we are all done with distractions?" he asked amused, looking back at Horus.

Horus just held his hands up innocently and shrugged.

Elwin shook his head before climbing back into the saddle and guiding his bird back between Rodney and Joshua to continue on to Phoenix Gate. He wanted to get there before Clive, which was honestly questionable at this rate, and to prepare for a potential ambush and betrayal.

Elwin used to enjoy being on the road. He sighed and exchanged a look with Rodney as Joshua started asking Gav and Horus about where they came from. Horus let Gav answer most questions and in fact seemed lost in thought when Elwin glanced back every so often. But the man was keeping up. And was utterly silent. Quite an enigma, really. He hoped to find out more before nightfall.

Chapter Text

The sun was nearly setting when the Archduke and his entourage arrived at Phoenix Gate. Horus looked around studying where they could place men and how they could make a stand as the Shields dispersed to see to the keep and the feast that was supposedly going to take place that night. Horus hoped they postponed it until the traitors were dealt with.

He waited in the yard as Elwin assisted Gav and Joshua off the chocobo. He hadn't wanted to dwell on it but Joshua looked so much younger. Innocent. Seeing him like this, he could almost understand Clive's need to protect him. If seeing Joshua was doing this. What would seeing young Clive do to him? Or Jill? Should the Archduke be willing to let him near Rosalith.

Maybe coming here was a bad idea. What if he changed more than he was prepared for? What if something happened and Clive died young? Or Cid? Or Jill or any of his friends, his family. He had already been unable to save one family. What if he directly led to the deaths of more of them?

Horus was startled out of his reverie as Gav barreled into his legs and nearly knocked him flat. He reached down with his bound hands to hold Gav close.

"Hey," he said softly. "I'm here."

Gav rubbed his face on Horus's leather armor and grimaced. Horus massaged Gav's shoulders as he let the young boy hide in his stomach. Hati sat at his side and wormed his muzzle into Gav's face to lick his cheek to draw a small laugh from the young boy.

"Horus," Elwin greeted as he approached, holding Mayra while Rodney went to work to get the keep situated.

"Lord Rosfield," Horus replied.

"Come with me," Elwin commanded and turned to walk away. Horus followed, Gav and Hati close at his side and up to what it seemed passed for the Archduke's office. "Take a seat," Elwin said, gesturing one handed to the chairs sat across from his desk.

Horus sat and Gav seemed like he wanted to sit with him instead of in the second chair, battling himself to appear to be a big kid instead of a baby. Horus didn't let him struggle with himself for long, he pulled Gav onto his lap. It was strange, seeing himself as such a young boy but he remembered how devestated he was when he had lost everyone. Just because this Gav had an uncle who wasn't his uncle and a baby sister to look after didn't mean he wasn't still struggling. Gav needed comfort and Horus knew he hadn't done enough to comfort him so far in their rush to get here to Phoenix Gate.

Gav turned into Horus' hold and sat across his lap, head resting on Horus' shoulder, much like Mayra was laying across Elwin's chest. He was nearly asleep and nearly sobbing at the same time. He was so tired and he just wanted to wake up this morning when everything was the way it was supposed to be and Mum and Dad and Devon and Jacob and Mishka and Lorelei and Tristan and Robert were all still alive and Mayra was still in Mum's belly and he didn't have an Uncle Horus even if he was really nice and had a cuddly dog.

Hati laid down at Horus' feet, snout down on top of his crossed paws as Horus tried to soothe Gav. He rubbed his back andmurmured soft words of comfort until the lad seemed to be asleep.

"I need more information," Elwin said softly as the children slept.

"I understand. I don't know much more," Horus lied. He had spoken with Clive about that night in drunken evenings when Clive couldn't sleep and Gav had returned late to the Hideaway. He knew that Clive had split Elwin and Joshua from Rodney and himself, sending two other shields, one severely injured, with them instead. He knew they were betrayed by Anabella who had helped put traitors and spies in their ranks. He knew that Joshua had primed for the first time, in pain most likely caused by Elwin's death, and that Clive had seen a strange figure in a hooded cloak before he primed himself, both of them out of control. They fought and decimated the landscape before Ifrit had killed, or presumably killed, the Phoenix. Anabella had arrived the next day and sent Clive to the front lines to be Branded and killed the other survivors. He couldn't admit to any of that however.

"Can you tell me exactly what you heard the Imperials saying about my wife?" Elwin asked.

"They said they had to hurry and get rid of the evidence of their presence. That Lady Rosfield wanted them in place to invade the keep tonight. That all but the Phoenix were to be killed. They posited that Sylvestre was going along with it for…" Horus paused and looked down at Gav and covered his ears despite him seemingly being asleep. "That Sylvestre was going along with it due to a crude word for sex. They were not particularly respectful when discussing Lady Rosfield but I wouldn't take that to mean they are willing to refuse her orders."

"Did they give any indication of who was the spy?" Elwin asked.

"No," Horus answered. "Only that they had been in place for a while."

"I see," Elwin said. "We will need to go about this carefully," he began and was interrupted by a knock on the door. "Enter," he called.

"Your Grace, the Lord Marquess has arrived," the Shield announced.

"Thank you. Have him and Sirs Tyler and Wade see me," Elwin told them and they saluted before leaving and closing the door behind them.

Horus felt his chest grow tight. Young Clive. This was going to be hard. He hadn't even considered that he would meet Wade again here. He should have.

He swallowed and looked down at Gav, wondering what the potential future held for him now. Would he love Clive as much as Horus did? Would he have a better chance than Horus ever had with him? And what about Cid? He was still working with Barnabas right now? How was he supposed to get Cid to defect? And if he did, what would happen to Mid? She wasn't even born yet. How was he going to make sure she was found by the people who needed to find her? There was so much to consider and so little time right now to dwell.

Horus could feel Elwin watching him as he watched Gav sleep. Studying him, no doubt. But Horus was too distraught and overwhelmed to pay him much heed. He did not, however, ignore when Mayra started to fuss. His head snapped up to watch as Elwin soothed her expertly. THere must have been something on his face that Elwin recognized because he spoke after a moment's thought.

"What is her name?" Elwin asked.

"Mayra," Horus answered, voice tinged with some mixture of sorrow and resignation.

"Mayra," Elwin repeated. "I remember when my boys were this little. The fear that I was going to hurt them even accidentally. Have you ever had a child to care for?"

"No," Horus admitted. "I spent a lot of time away from Frostwyke. I wasn't there for Gav and his siblings. I don't know what I'm doing."

"You're doing fine," Elwin soothed. "You got them this far."

"Thirteen hours," Horus said. "How am I supposed to keep going for another thirteen years?"

"One hour at a time, some days," Elwin told him truthfully. "What did you do away from Frostwyke?"

"I've been a scout mostly," Horus answered, trying to decide what to keep hidden in that.

"No doubt the hound comes in handy then," Elwin said.

"He's been an invaluable companion," Horus answered truthfully.

"He reminds me of someone," Elwin commented idly.

"Oh?" Horus asked, feeling his chest grow tight in nervousness.

"Torgal, my son's hound. They look like they could be twins," Elwin explained.

"Where did you find him? Perhaps Hati is his father," Horus suggested.

"Possible. It was in the Northern Territories," Elwin said. "Wouldn't you know if your hound was the father?"

"Hati is not tied to my side. He has disappeared before for periods of time," Horus lied. "It's perfectly possible he fathered litters without my knowing."

Elwin hummed and then they were interrupted by a knock on the door. Rodney opened the door accompanied by a young Clive Rosfield and two other Shields. No doubt the Tyler Elwin had mentioned and the other was definitely Wade.

Rodney approached Elwin with a bottle of presumably milk for Mayra and Elwin fed her as the others took spots in the office.

"Clive, Tyler, Wade, I trust your mission in Stillwind was a success," Elwin greeted.

"It was, Your Grace. The goblins have been cleared out as well as the morbol that was found there as well," Clive answered.

"A morbol?" Elwin asked, looking up in shock.

"Yes, Your Grace. I would like to petition for a squadron to investigate if there are any others," Clive answered.

"Granted. But not now. We have bigger problems," Elwin said. "Horus here is seeking refuge from a village in the Northern Territories with his nephew and niece. Their village was destroyed by Imperials who stated they were on their way here to betray us at Her Grace's direction."

"What?" Wade asked, shocked and then bowed his head slightly with a muttered apology.

"They burnt Frostwyke to the ground," Horus explained. "While discussing how Sylvestre was… enthralled by Lady Rosfield. They mentioned their orders to destroy any who lived within Phoenix Gate aside from the Phoenix himself. She intends to kill everyone and hand Rosaria over to Sanbreque. Her exact reasons are unknown. But you know her better than I do. Or they did."

"Your Grace?" Clive asked and it hurt a little to see his doubts in Horus when he never had any for Gav in the future that will not be.

"I have every reason to believe he is speaking the truth as I do that he is lying," Elwin explained. "For now, we need to get the keep ready for an attack while being careful of spies and traitors in the ranks. They had mentioned placing some amongst our number."

"How can we ever find that out with reliability?" Clive asked.

"We will be interrogating the men we brought with us," Rodney said. "For now, the only ones we trust without question are those in this room and those who had already been stationed here."

"Horus and the children are to be shown to a room and confined to quarters," Elwin went on.

Horus nodded in acceptance.

"Until we can corroborate his story at least," Elwin went on.

"I would request, Your Grace," Horus said. "Once you find someone you trust, that there be a larger guard presence on the door. I would appreciate the help in keeping both Gav and Mayra safe should the keep be breached."

"If we can varify your story, it will be done," Elwin conceded.

"Thank you," Horus answered.

"For now, Sir Wade," Elwin continued. "I would like you to put him in a room near Joshua and keep the hall under guard."

"Of course, Your Grace," Wade said with a salute.

"Would you be able to carry Mayra for me," Horus asked. "I'd hate to wake Gav. It's been a hard day for him."

"Of course," Wade agreed and went to take the baby, done with her bottle by now, from Elwin's arms. "She's adorable. And tiny."

Tyler cast a look at her along with Clive and Horus felt a bittersweet pang in his chest. "She's only about thirteen hours old."

"Thirteen hours," Wade asked.

"I had to cut her from her mother's belly or neither of them would have made it. Gav watched me. It… They," he trailed off as the day threatened to catch up to him.

"We'll keep them safe here," Elwin assured.

"Thank you, Your Grace," Horus said and stood up with Gav in his arms. Hati joined him and followed them out of the room.

"His wolf looked like Torgal," Clive said as the door closed behind them and Wade led them through the keep.

They picked up Joshua in the yard playing with Torgal and the puppy followed Hati like he wanted to play. Joshua was enthralled with trying to catch a glimpse of the baby swaddled in Wade's arms until they reached the tower and Wade got them all settled in one of the rooms set aside for guests.

Horus placed Gav down on the bed and removed his boots to tuck him in while Wade set Mayra further in the middle of the bed. Joshua climbed up on the bed to get a better look at her. Horus had the sudden realization that Joshua, being the youngest, probably hadn't been around a small babe before either.

"She looks squishy," Joshua said.

"She does," Horus agreed with a laugh. "She's not even a full day old," he added. He had tried to clean her up in a creek not too long after they had left Frostwyke so she was cleaned of blood and viscera but he was reminded quite suddenly as he ran his hand through his hair that he had not paid himself the same amount of attention.

Horus sat heavily in the desk chair as the reality of what he did hit him. Sure she was going to die anyways but he had carved his mother open to save his sister. He was coated in her blood. He felt himself about to break down and Wade, glorious Wade, took over pulling Joshua off the bed and hunting through Gav's bag for a clean change of clothes for Mayra. She no doubt needed changed by now.

"You did what you had to do," Wade told the room at large.

"I cut her open," Horus said, horrified.

"And saved Mayra," Wade reminded him.

"I don't know how to do this," Horus admitted. "I'm not… I'm not a father. Or an uncle. I'm… I'm a scout. I don't know how to keep them safe with everything I have to do."

"You'll figure it out," Wade assured. "You got them to Rosaria. And His Grace seemed quite taken with Miss Mayra. He'll see them cared for."

"Father won't let them get hurt," Joshua assured.

"Thank you, Your Lordship," Horus said.

"I'll get you a crystal and you can wash up," Joshua said and lept off the bed so he could go fetch the supplies.

"Lord Joshua," Wade protested but Joshua was already gone.

"You can go get him," Horus said. "I'll be right here. Promise."

Wade nodded and finished putting Mayra back in her clothes and rushed to follow his Lord.

Horus stood to settle on the bed. He sat up against the headboard next to Gav, Mayra resting on his chest and closed his eyes. It was a long day. He could just rest for a short while. He'd wake if there were trouble.

Chapter Text

Horus woke up with a start when the shouting started outside. Mayra started to fuss and cry at his jolted awakening and woke Gav who turned into Horus' side sleepily and mumbled something about what the time was.

"Horus," Wade's voice came through the door, "We have to move. They've set fire to the keep."

"What?" Horus said, grabbing Mayra and pointing to Gav to gather their things. He opened the door, holding Mayra close.

"They shot over the walls. Part of the roof is on fire," Wade explained. "I'm going to get Lord Joshua and then we are going to head to the lower levels and towards the inner hall. His Grace is waiting for us there."

"Alright," Horus said and turned away to where Gav was standing looking scared. "It's going to be alright, Gav. The Shields know what they are doing. We are just going to head somewhere a bit more defensible."

"But," Gav protested.

"I promise, Gav," Horus swore. "I'm not about to let anything happen to you or Mayra."

Gav nodded and joined him at the door with their packs and Mayra's bottle. "Will they have Mayra's goat safe?"

"We'll make sure there is one," Horus assured and ushered Gav out of the room and, with Hati herding Torgal through the hall, they made their way through the halls filled with Shields who nodded respectfully until they reached the inner hall.

"Joshua," Elwin called and Joshua rushed to his father's side, Horus and the rest following more sedately. "Horus, I trust you are all well."

"Well enough, Your Grace," Horus answered, putting an arm around Gav's shoulders to keep him close. "Do we need to be concerned about Mayra's goat?" he asked.

"She's through there," Elwin said, pointing to a door nearby. "The stables have been spared so far. We've been funneling the Imperials in to take them out on our turf. So far it's worked well and we have no casualties, only some injuries. They have not been so lucky. And the few we've interrogated have admitted to the same as you mentioned. They've apparently been wondering where the squad dispatched to Frostwyke were."

"Dead," Horus said. "May they burn."

"I figured," Elwin said.

"Where's Clive?" Joshua asked, looking around for his brother.

"He's off making sure the courtyard remains clear and the Imperials are taken care of properly. Rodney is with him," Elwin said. "As is Sir Tyler," he added when it looked like Wade would ask.

"Thank you, Your Grace," Wade said sheepishly.

Elwin just smirked at him slightly.

"They'll be fine," Horus said. "I've no doubt they'll look after each other."

Joshua did not look soothed but he nodded anyways.

"Why don't you and Gav go keep Torgal busy. He looks restless," Horus said.

Joshua nodded and picked up Torgal to head to a corner near the back of the room. Gav looked up at him and at Horus' smile and nod followed. Horus gestured Hati to follow them with his head.

Hati huffed and followed to babysit.

"How are we really faring?" Horus asked once they were out of earshot.

"The gates were breached," Elwin explained. "A supply caravan arrived from Rosalith but the soldiers were traitors and attacked the gate guards and opened the gates. Thankfully we had a large group of men stationed near the gate and we have been able to hold them off but they have a dragoon with them. Clive went to face him with Rodney and Tyler."

Horus nodded. He hadn't known that was how they got in. So much of tonight was guesswork.

"Go settle with the boys," Elwin told him. "I'll have the goat brought in so we can feed Mayra and keep her calm. We've got a large contingent of loyal Shields. We've verified them. We're safe in here. It's just a precaution."

"Thank you, Your Grace," Horus sighed. "I'm not used to staying away from the fighting."

"No, but you have two little ones to think of now," Elwin reminded.

"I know," Horus agreed and nodded to Elwin before leaving to sit with the boys. He even reached out when Joshua asked to let him hold her, placing his hands in the appropriate places.

Gav moved into Horus' side and fell back asleep quickly, Joshua joining him on Horus' other with Torgal in his arms. Horus held Mayra through the night and by the time the sun was rising, the world outside had quieted. He watched as Clive, Rodney, Tyler and a group of other Shields entered and Elwin sent another group who had rested through the night out.

Elwin joined him with Clive and the others.

"We're setting an ambush for Anabella and the other Imperials," Elwin admitted. "We should have her in chains soon and the Imperials either in chains or dead. I'll have questions for her ladies-in-waiting."

"I hope you get your answers," Horus said.

"So do I," Elwin agreed. "When that is over, we will head back to Rosalith. Joshua and the apodytery will have to wait. We have an internal crisis to avert first."

Horus nodded his head in understanding.

"I was hoping you would join us," Elwin said.

Horus looked up in confusion.

"They may not be fully ready to be left alone but, we could use a good scout. And you've done us a rather large favor telling us about Anabella's betrayal. And Joshua likes you. And Gav and Mayra," Elwin explained.

Horus looked down at Gav's sleeping face. It would keep him safe. And give him a place to work from before the Hideaway was ready. If the Hideaway was ever built. "Before I agree, how do you feel about Bearers?"

"Are you one?" Elwin asked.

"No and neither is Gav," Horus said truthfully. He looked up to meet Elwin's eyes steadily. "But I refuse to be a part of their subjugation. They are men and should not be treated as less for their gifts. They deserve the right to choose their fates."

"That could be considered heresy in some circles," Elwin told him seriously.

"Then arrest me," Horus said, taking a chance.

"No," Elwin said eventually. "But if we plan to free them, we have to go about this intelligently."

Horus studied him and then nodded. "Then I look forward to working with you, Your Grace." He caught Clive looking at his father from the corner of his eye and wondered if it was a new sentiment he was unfamiliar with hearing from the man.

"As do I," Elwin admitted. "Get some rest. We'll leave as soon as they are in chains."

Horus nodded and watched as Elwin and Rodney walked away. Tyler and Wade also took their leave heading off together to help get things packed, leaving Clive with Horus.

"Your name is Horus?" Clive asked.

"Aye," Horus replied. "My mother told me stories of the twins Ra and Horus. Ra the Sun and Horus the moon. Horus was the healer of the two. And the dual wolves, Sköll and Hati. Hati who chases the moon and Sköll who chases the sun. Only made sense to name him Hati then." He nodded at Hati who huffed.

"He looks just like Torgal," Clive commented, reaching out to pet him.

"I believe he must be Torgal's sire," Horus lied easily. He hated it. He wanted to tell Clive the truth. But more than that he wanted to tell his Clive the truth. He wanted his Clive and his Cid. And he would never have them again. It hit him rather suddenly that his entire life was gone. His friends. His family. The people he had fought with and for. Everyone. He was no one anymore. Not Cid the Third. Not Gav the scout. Not Gav the orphan. He was Horus. He was going to have to be Horus forever. And he would never have the same relationship with Clive and Cid that he had before. He could maybe guide them into being the men he knew they could be but… It would always be different.

"Are you alright?" Clive asked.

Horus looked up and tried to smile. "Yeah. Just… it's been a long day. I heard you fought a morbol. How did that go?"

"It was fine," Clive said.

"Fine?" Wade asked from nearby. "He was amazing," he enthused. "It was after we faced the goblins. We went across the bridge and suddenly… thousands of red eyes. And then… wait til you hear this. His Lordship draws his sword - shhhing! The goblin chief runs off screaming straight down a morbol's gullet. And the morbol! His Lordship leapt straight into action dodging the morbol's breath nimbly like the epitome of a First Shield and claimed the killing blow after a fierce battle by leaping into the air and diving at the thing's head sword first, driving his blade into it's head and killing it."

Horus listened with a smile and saw the rest of the Shields listening proudly as well. In a night full of betrayal and blood, the tale of their Lord Marquess and his feats was able to unite them all in a happier moment. Except for Clive who looked like he wanted to sink into the ground.

"You do your house and kingdom proud, Lord Rosfield," Horus said. "I knew a man much like you once. Two of them," he said softly. "They would take on any beast should it help those in need. Slavers, beasts, bandits, Akashic, even a dragon and a gryphon. You may just yet be their equal," he praised, sadness tinging his tone as he thought of his Cid and Clive.

"What happened to them?" Clive asked.

"They died," Horus answered simply. "Time stops for no one. And there are powers in this world that wouldn't stand for what they tried to accomplish. Every day I try to live up to their legacy. And every day I feel I fall just a little further behind."

"I'm sure they'd be proud of you," Clive assured.

"Oh?" Horus asked, a wry smile on his face.

"It's not about how many you beat. It's about the people you saved. And you saved Gav and Mayra and all of us. I'm sure they'd be proud of that."

Horus huffed. "Yeah. Yeah, I'm sure they would be. Thank you, Your Lordship."

Clive grimaced slightly at the title.

"Don't like being called a Lordship?" Horus asked softly.

"I know Her Grace betrayed us and I shouldn't…" Clive sighed. "It doesn't feel right."

"She made you feel like you weren't worthy of it," Horus stated simply.

"She thinks I'm a failure for not being the Phoenix. I don't deserve to be a Rosfield," Clive admitted quietly.

"I know I have very little weight in these matters," Horus said. "But your father doesn't think that. The Lord Commander doesn't think that. The Shields that follow you don't think that. Wade certainly wouldn't have spoken so highly of you if he did. Don't let one person outweigh the hundreds who respect you."

Clive looked up shyly at him with a hopeful look.

"You, Lord Rosfield, have more honor in your little finger than she has in her whole body. You are what Rosaria honors. She would betray not just you, not just your father, but all your people. She is not the Rosfield you should care about the opinion of because she turned her back on everything that a Rosfield stands for, on your people."

"He's quite right," Elwin said, placing his hands on Clive's shoulders from behind.

"Your Grace," Clive greeted.

"You know how I told you to stop licking my boots because your mother wasn't there in the throne room?" Elwin asked.

"Yes," Clive answered.

"She's about to be even less present once we return to Rosalith and strip of her her name, her rank, her blood, and all status. If it is not an affair of state, I am not Your Grace to you, do you understand?" Elwin asked.

"Yes, Y- Father," Clive agreed.

Horus smiled at the exchange. He had a feeling it would take a while for the lesson to sink in but it would have the chance to this time.

"She has been placed in chains and taken to the dungeon. Tyler and Wade are going to be standing guard. I want you to get some rest. We'll be riding back to the capitol once the sun fully rises," Elwin said.

"Yes, Your…" Clive began and then corrected himself at Elwin's pointed look. "Yes, Father."

"Come join the pile," Horus stated gesturing to the other side of Joshua.

Clive huffed and settled next to his brother and was quickly asleep, draped over Joshua's side.

"Is Mayra alright?" Elwin asked.

"Sleeping," Horus replied. "She could probably eat. If we can fill some waterskins with milk for the journey I would appreciate it. Saves having to stop to milk a goat every time she needs fed."

"I will also see if there is a wet nurse in Eastpool that we can hire for the journey to Rosalith. Rodney's wife lives there and will know," Elwin said. "We can find a more permanent hire once we reach the castle."

"I appreciate it, Your Grace," Horus said. "I have no gil to offer for such services."

"You are in my employ now," Elwin said. "It's my honor for what you've done for us."

"Thank you, Your Grace," Horus said sincerely.

Elwin nodded and Rodney, who was at his side as Horus suspected he always was, nodded his agreement of finding a wet nurse for Mayra in Eastpool.

"Hanna has let me know in her letters that there have been two recent births in town," Rodney mentioned. "One has a husband among the Shields and would likely be more than happy to join us on the trail to Rosalith. Her son is slightly older than Mayra at four months. He'll be able to share the milk."

"Thank you," Horus said and paused. "I apologize. I've only caught your given name, Sir."

"Rodney Murdoch," Rodney introduced himself with an amused smile. "His Grace gets away with my first name as we've been working closely together since we were boys."

Horus smiled as Elwin looked slightly sheepish at the gentle reprimand in Rodney's words.

"And are you alright being known as just Horus?" Rodney went on.

"Aye," Horus said. "There isn't a family to claim any longer. Except for Gav and Mayra."

"Perhaps you should come up with one for the three of you," Elwin suggested. "Make a new family."

"Perhaps," Horus said. He had never considered giving himself a new surname. But if he was changing everything else about himself… why not his surname too?

"Get some rest. I'll make sure the milk is packaged and kept cool. We have some shards available. And the Imperials brought even more that they are definitely not getting back," Elwin said.

"Thank you," Horus said sincerely for what felt like the hundredth time. "I truly appreciate it."

"You can thank us later once we reach Rosalith and have a place set up for you," Elwin said and patted him on the shoulder above his son's head before he walked away.

Rodney nodded to him with a smile before following to hand out instructions for morning. It was coming sooner than any would like after this fraught night.

Chapter Text

Horus was shaken awake gently and his eye popped open and he was alert in seconds. Rodney held up his hands to be unthreatening as he knelt in front of him. Horus blinked as he looked around. The boys were all still asleep and Mayra was awake and looking up at the rays of light filtering in through the windows. Rodney held out a bottle for Mayra and Horus took it with a soft thanks.

"Are we leaving soon?" Horus asked.

"Yes," Rodney answered. "I was going to wake the boys but figured I'd wake you first so I don't get stabbed," he joked.

"Couldn't," Horus pointed out. "You took my sword."

"Damn, we did, didn't we?" Rodney said. "I'll go hunt it down."

"I'll get them moving," Horus said, nodding at the boys still asleep.

Rodney nodded and stood to hunt down Gav's sword and dagger.

Horus sighed as he held the bottle for Mayra and shook Gav with his elbow. "Gav, Gavish, wake up," Horus said as he jostled the lad gently.

Gav groaned and turned his head into Horus's side.

"We have to get ready to head to the capitol," Horus said.

Gav opened his eyes and sat up to look around and looked like he wanted to cry.

"Oh Gav," Horus crooned.

"I wanted it to be a horrible dream," Gav admitted.

"I know, lad," Horus soothed. "I know."

Gav sniffled. "What do I need to do?" Gav asked.

"Can you get Joshua and Clive up?" Horus asked. "And then make sure all of Mayra's things are packed. His Grace is making sure the goats are milked and we have milk ready for Mayra for the trip so we don't have to stop to milk the goat every time she's hungry."

Gav nodded and went to gently shake Clive and Joshua awake. Clive woke easier and rubbed his eyes adorably as he sat up and moved to shake Joshua into full wakefulness.

"Are we heading out?" Clive asked.

"Yes, Lord Murdoch went to fetch my sword," Horus said.

Clive nodded and looked around for something to do.

"Can you help Gav make sure we have everything we need for Mayra?" Horus asked as Clive looked slightly lost with nothing to do.

"Of course," Clive answered and went to help Gav repack their bags.

"Mister Horus," Joshua asked.

"Yes, Lord Joshua?" Horus encouraged.

"The Shields said Mother's in the dungeons. That she was the one leading the attack," Joshua said softly.

Horus sighed and patted the floor next to him for Joshua to join him. "She is and she was," he agreed, gently.

"Is it because she hates Clive?" Joshua asked.

"I don't know," Horus admitted. "I suspect she wanted power and prestige. I don't know what truly poisoned her against your brother and father and the rest of your people. But she was, is, concerned only with her own power. Everyone else is a pawn to her, Lord Joshua. And I'm sorry to say that includes you. Only the Phoenix kept you safe from her plans tonight. But even your loss would only have delayed her, not stopped her."

"I don't want to hate her," Joshua said quietly. "But I do."

Horus wrapped an arm around Joshua and held him close as Mayra finished her bottle.

"She is your mother," Horus told him. "But respect has to go both ways. Even between parents and children. No one is asking you to hate her ot not hate her. Whatever you feel is what you feel. But I do suspect your father has plans for her when we get her back to the Capitol."

"Is he going to kill her?" Joshua asked.

"That is the fate of traitors," Horus said. "But I won't allow him to force you to attend. You or Clive or any of the kids." He squeezed Joshua once in comfort before he moved to burp Mayra over his shoulder.

"Joshua," Elwin's voice said softly and Joshua looked up and over to where his father was standing.

"Yes, Father?" Joshua asked, rushing to stand up.

Elwin held a hand out to bekon Joshua closer and once he was, placed two heavy hands on Joshua's shoulders. "Unfortunately your mother is going to pay for her crimes," Elwin told him seriously. "But she is still your mother and she treated you well. I will not be upset if her punishment feels conflicting to you."

"I know, Father," Joshua agreed.

Elwin sighed. "Go on and help Clive get Gav situated. I want him to ride with you back again today. Is that acceptable?"

"Of course, Father," Joshua agreed with a wide smile.

Elwin gestured him away with a tilt of his head and Joshua ran off to tell Gav the good news.

Elwin and Horus both watched him go and then turned to each other.

"He's a good kid," Horus praised.

"You're good with him," Elwin commented.

Horus looked down with a wry smile. He had had his issues with adult Joshua but he had always respected how much Clive loved him.

"You're good with all of them," Elwin went on.

"I always wanted to be a big brother," Horus admitted, going for part of the truth. He glanced over at the three boys, watching them make a bigger mess than had been there before. "I just want to make people happy. I'm so tired of everything hurting so much."

Elwin didn't answer and Horus was afraid to look back at him but he did eventually to see Elwin watching him gently.

"Sorry, Your Grace," Horus said and then jolted as Mayra spit up over the blanket on his shoulder. "Oh that was a big mess, little miss," he addressed Mayra and cleaned up her face with a clean corner of the blanket.

"It'll stop hurting eventually," Elwin said as Horus was distracted with Mayra. "We'll make sure of it."

Horus nodded in acknowledgement without looking up. He didn't look up again until Rodney returned with his sword and dagger. Once those were back on his belt, it was time to get moving and Horus tied Mayra into the sling while Elwin and Rodney helped the boys onto their chocobo and they could start moving. Horus handed Torgal up to Gav while Hati circled under him. Everyone's attention was pulled to the door to the dungeons where Lady Anabella and her ladies-in-waiting were escorted out gagged and chained. Joshua looked away without acknowledging her as did Clive despite the muffled sounds of screaming.

Her chains were attached to one of the carts and she was pulled along in her finery in the middle of the Shields where she would be unable to escape.

"To Rosalith, friends. We have been betrayed but with the Phoenix's blessing we shall rise again, undefeated. We will defend our homeland even from threats from within," Elwin annouced. "Onward."

Elwin led the way out of the keep, leaving behind a fair amount of Shields and they were back on the road. Horus sighed. He was used to traveling but he wanted better for Mayra, for young Gav. He wanted them to have a home again. And maybe a surname, like Elwin had suggested. A family. A rest wouldn't be out of the question either. He was so caught up in changing what could have been a dream but was more and more showing itself as reality. And now the world was already changed. The Rosfield's lived and Rosaria was as yet undefeated. He intended to keep it that way.

Chapter Text

Horus felt incredibly bad about the journey to Rosalith. They kept stopping to feed Mayra or change Mayra. He was on the ground with the Shields and while everyone seemed to appreciate the breaks, he had a feeling they were usually pushed harder in organized militaries, there were frequent breaks. It put them behind where they would likely be if they could move without so many breaks.

Torgal seemed to enjoy the breaks, running around with Hati and the boys, except for Clive. Horus found it secretly amusing to see Clive trying so hard to be stoic and adult. He couldn't keep a smile off his face sometimes but aimed them toward the playing boys or Mayra. He didn't think he fooled Elwin every time but he didn't approach the issue with him on the road.

They reached Eastpool just after lunch time and were welcomed in confusion. No one expected them so soon, it seemed.

"Your Grace?" Hanna asked and Horus had to shake the vision of Eastpool on fire and Hanna Murdoch's lifeless eyes staring at the smokey sky.

"Hanna," Elwin greeted as Rodney climbed off his chocobo.

"Rodney? What is this, Your Grace?" Hanna asked.

"We have need of a wet nurse, Hanna," Rodney said instead. "Is Marissa still making milk for Henry?"

"Marissa? A wet nurse?" Hanna asked and then shook her head as if to clear it. "Yes. Marissa is still nursing Henry. She should be at home with him now."

"Thank you," Elwin said to her. "Gareth," he called and a Shield approached. "Go fetch your wife."

The Shield saluted and darted off.

"Rodney, what is this about?" Hanna insisted.

Horus approached with Mayra in her sling. "That would be our fault, Lady Hanna," he greeted.

"And you are?" Hanna asked.

"Horus," he answered. "And this is Miss Mayra, my niece." he turned the sleeping Mayra slightly so that Hanna could catch a look at her.

"She's so tiny," Hanna said approaching as Elwin let the Shields disperse slightly.

"She's only two days old," Horus admitted. "Her birth was… rough," he settled on saying.

"Without her mother I suppose it must have been," Hanna said. "Can I?"

Horus nodded and lifted Mayra from the sling and passed her over.

"Oh she's adorable," Hanna said. "And Her Grace?" she asked with a head tilt towards where Anabella was chained and gagged still, dirt and dust coating the hem of her fine dress.

"A traitor," Elwin answered, getting down from his own chocobo and helping Gav and Joshua down to stretch as Clive followed suit.

"A traitor?" she asked.

"She conspired with Sanbreque to kill Elwin and Clive and the rest of the Shields at Phoenix Gate," Rodney answered.

Hanna glared at Anabella and got a look of utter hatred back. Hanna pointedly turned her back. "And Horus?"

"Gave us warning. They headed through the Northern Territories and razed his village to the ground. He, Gav, and Mayra are the only survivors," Elwin explained.

"Gav?" Hanna asked.

"Hi, Lady Hanna," Gav greeted shyly as he rushed to Horus' side to cling to him. It had been a rough morning and he was growing more clingy as the day went on.

"Nice to meet you, Gav," Hanna greeted. "Is Mayra your sister?"

Gav nodded. "She is. Mama said I had to look after her."

"I'm sure you're going to do wonderfully," Hanna praised and then was interrupted as Gareth returned with his wife and son.

"Your Grace," Gareth greeted. "I explained the situation briefly. Marissa would be honored to act as a wet nurse for the little lady."

"I would, Your Grace," Marissa said with a curtsy.

"Thank you, Miss Marissa," Elwin said. "She had a bottle of goat's milk not long ago so she should be alright for a little longer. Though she's been eating frequently."

"No doubt," Marissa said approaching Lady Hanna and Mayra. "She's a tiny thing. I remember how much Henry ate at that size. Is she young or malnourished?"

"Young," Horus answered, somehow insulted by the idea she would be malnourished. "Two days old."

"Oh the poor thing," Marissa crooned. "You've done marvelous with her. She looks healthy for that age."

"I've tried," Horus admitted, wrapping an arm around Gav to pull him in close as the women crooned over Mayra.

"We'll wait for the afternoon and continue out in the morning," Elwin decreed. "It'll give Gareth and Marissa time to pack their things to join us at the castle. Unless you would like to return when we reach Rosalith?"

"I'd be honored to continue as Miss Mayra's nurse in Rosalith," Marissa admitted.

"I'll need time to pack as well," Hanna stated.

"Hanna?" Elwin asked.

"I left Rosalith due to Her Grace," Hanna admitted. "If she is no longer going to be in power there, I will return."

"You never told me that, Hanna," Rodney said. "You told me you missed Eastpool."

"Rodney," Hanna said simply. "Anabella's actions were not your burden."

"But they were mine," Elwin pointed out.

"Your Grace," Hanna explained. "At the time, there was no evidence of any crimes by her. A distasteful attitude is nothing to bring to the Archduke."

"I would prefer to have been made aware, Lady Hanna," Elwin pointed out. "You are a dear friend. I would not have had you run out of Rosalith or made to fear your own home due to a lesser noble with delusions of grandeur."

Everyone ignored Anabella's screech of rage behind her gag.

"Well, what's done is done," Hanna said. "Let's let the Shields make camp in the town center and you can make yourselves comfortable in the house. Would you like that boys?"

"Yes, Lady Hanna," Clive and Joshua answered with a wide smile.

Hanna shot Elwin an amused look as she ushered Clive and Joshua toward the house. "You too, Gav," she called.

Gav looked up at Horus for permission and Horus nodded and pushed him gently towards the group heading to the Murdoch home.

Horus watched them leave and then frowned. "She never gave Mayra back," he said to no one.

"Oh you won't be getting her back for a while," Rodney teased as he started unsaddling his chocobo.

"She'll be in good hands, Horus," Elwin assured.

Horus sighed and turned to help get Ambrosia unsaddled. She studied him for a moment before Horus could have sworn she recognized him as she let him take her reins and saddle off without issue.

"You're a good girl, Ambrosia," Horus said, petting her lightly like he knew she liked. He looked in her eyes and then startled slightly. She still had both eyes. She injured her at Phoenix Gate. Another change, however small, that could have massive consequences.

"Can I trust you to see yourself to the stables?" Horus asked.

Ambrosia let out a quiet kweh and she turned to walk away.

"She never lets anyone but Clive handle her," Elwin said, astonished.

"She's a smart girl," Horus said. "She knows I mean her no harm."

"She must," Elwin said.

Horus moved to Joshua's mount to unsaddle her as well and then guided her to the stable where Ambrosia was already settled.

"Kweh," Ambrosia said and Horus smiled at her before he looked around and found the gysahl greens and snuck her some.

"Just between you and me," he whispered and turned to see both Elwin and Rodney with their own mounts watching him in amusement.

Horus cleared his throat in embarrassment and slid past them. He could hear them laughing as he left. Oh well. So much for a secret favorite.

He ran into Wade and Tyler as he sought out more to help with and they laughed at him lightly.

"His Grace and Lord Commander giving you a hard time?" Tyler asked.

"What makes you say that?" Horus asked.

Tyler gestured behind him with his chin. When Horus turned he saw Elwin and Rodney watching him in amusement still and flushed deeper.

"They must like you," Tyler said simply.

"Why do you say that?" Horus asked.

"Hm, let's just say those two are extremely close," Tyler said cryptically. "And very much tied to their duty. If they are willing to be even slightly more casual, they must like you. Trust you."

"Oh," Horus said.

"It's a good thing," Wade assured him.

"I imagine being trusted by the Archduke would be a good thing," Horus said. "Not used to being regarded by royalty though. As anything."

"Get used to it," Tyler warned. "Miss Mayra already has the Murdochs and Rosfields all tied around her little finger."

"Yeah," Horus said. "I noticed that when Lady Hanna absconded with her."

Tyler and Wade both burst into laughs at Horus' grumbled complaint. It sounded more petulant than anything else.

"I'm sure you will still be her favorite uncle," Wade soothed.

Horus fell silent. He wasn't supposed to be Mayra's uncle. He was supposed to be her brother. "Yeah," he said softly. "Yeah, I hope."

Tyler patted him on the shoulder as they left to continue to unpack.

"Ready to see how Hanna has spoiled the boys in our absence?" Elwin's voice asked from behind Horus.

"Yeah," Horus said. "I appreciate her taking Gav with her."

"Of course," Rodney said. "He doesn't deserve to be out here with this rowdy bunch." He slapped Horus lightly on the back and led the way into his house.

Hanna had spoiled the boys. They had cake. Horus rolled his eyes as he saw Gav and the boys stuffing their faces with cake.

"I hope you said thank you," he told Gav.

"He's a perfect gentleman," Hanna defended. "Better than those two," she said as Elwin and Rodney were caught biting into their own pieces of cake.

"Thank you," Elwin said, mouth full of cake.

Horus couldn't help but chuckle along with the boys as Hanna rolled her eyes at the two adults. "Here's yours," she said and handed Horus a plate with a piece of cake.

"Thank you, Lady Hanna," Horus said politely.

"Clive," Elwin said. "You might have competition for Ambrosia's affections. Horus here was able to see to her and get her settled. Even before he bribed her with gysahl greens."

"I forgot to unsaddle her," Clive said, jumping up.

"It's taken care of, Clive," Horus soothed. "She's perfectly happy in the stables right now. No saddle."

"Thank you," Clive said, relieved.

"You're welcome. It's an honor to see to such a pretty bird," Horus praised.

"I have your rooms settled too," Hanna said. "Gav, you're bunking with Joshua. Is that alright?"

"Yes, Lady Hanna," Gav said.

"Horus, there's a guest room through there," Hanna said and pointed down a short hall to a closed door. "You two know where your beds are," she added to Elwin and Rodney.

"Of course," Elwin said. "Thank you, Hanna."

"No thanks needed, Elwin," Hanna said sincerely and Horus had a feeling there was more being said than what they had actually said. It wasn't his business however. His business was just getting Gav and Mayra safely to Rosalith. He could consider what the internal politics of Rosfield/Murdoch affair was later. Once they were all settled into the castle. It'd be nice to see it again, not destroyed by Kupka. Kupka. What should he do about that? He sighed internally. Later. That had to come later. It all came later.

Chapter Text

That evening felt like evenings at the Hideaway before Origin. They sat around the Murdoch's table joking and laughing. Horus got the impression Elwin didn't usually joke this freely with the way Clive and Joshua sometimes looked at him like they didn't recognize him. He understood just how heavy an honor it was to be included here. Common thieves and scouts and outlaw's were not supposed to be welcomed into royal houses and treated like a friend. It felt like there was a weight on his chest sometimes thinking of it. But Gav and the boys were playing with Torgal while Hati watched them and Hanna had given Mayra back and she was sleeping calmly in Horus' arms.

Shields had stopped by infrequently to pass on information or get orders. One time they stopped by with an extra crib for Mayra that someone in the village had in storage. It almost made Horus cry. This was the Hideaway without the outlaws and the traumatized and freed Bearers. Without Tett and Crow. Without Dorys and Cole and Jill and Tarja and Otto and Tomes and Vivian and Mid and… Horus passed Mayra to Hanna and took his silent leave to go around the back of the house and try to get control of himself.

He couldn't go around mourning what he used to have. It wasn't possible to get back. It didn't mean anything. They were still out there. They… He banged his head against the wall behind him and slid to a crouch. He was left alone for all of ten minutes before Rodney joined him and sat on the ground next to him.

"First time losing someone?" Rodney asked.

"No," Horus admitted, voice hoarse. "No but this one hurts worse."

Rodney didn't respond but he did reach out to place a heavy hand on Horus' back. "I'm not supposed to be here," Horus admitted softly.

"We're glad you are," Rodney told him.

"There's so much to think about. So much to plan. So much to mourn," Horus continued. "How do you grieve this much without losing your mind?"

"I can't answer that," Rodney answered. "You keep going though. For the ones left."

"There's no one left," Horus cried out softly. "Mayra should be dead. Gav is an orphan. And I wasn't even supposed to be there. Here. Any of it. I…" he clenched his teeth on too much truth and turned away to wipe at his eyes.

"Except you were there," Rodney said. "And Mayra isn't dead. And Gav may be an orphan but if you think Joshua is going to let him go without a family…"

"Then maybe I should leave them with you," Horus said despondently. "I have things I have to do. I don't know how to be a… a father." He ran his hands through his hair and yanked his hand away in disgust. "And I still have her blood all over me," He said in disgust and leaped up to try to find anything to clean up with.

"Shh," Rodney soothed. "Calm down. It's alright. We'll get it washed out. Come here." He pulled Horus over to a trough and scooped out a handful of water to wet Horus' hair and combed through to get the blood out, rubbing at the ends of his hair with a corner of the livestock blanket nearby. He rightly assumed Horus wouldn't mind.

Horus wept as Rodney cleaned his hair for him. He took out each little tie and combed through to get out as much blood and grime as he could before he retied the hair in their little rattails.

"Thank you," Horus said softly as he wiped at his eyes.

Rodney rested his hands on Horus' shoulders and squeezed comfortingly. "You are not in this alone," Rodney said, voice close to Horus' ear. "Gav needs you right now. But he won't be tied to you forever. Whatever you feel you need to do, you aren't alone. Rosaria owes you a debt. The Rosfields owe you a debt. I owe you a debt. We won't forget that."

"I didn't do it for a debt," Horus insisted.

"We know. All the more reason you deserve it," Elwin said from the doorway. "Gav wanted to say goodnight before he went with Joshua and Clive to bed."

Horus wiped at his eyes and nodded, pulling away from Rodney's hands. "Of course," he said. "Thank you." He started into the house again when Elwin stopped him.

"We'll figure out a way to deal with the Bearers if that's what you are worried about," Elwin told him.

"Honestly, Your Grace," Horus said. "That's only one of a hundred things I'm worried about." He nodded to Elwin and then to Rodney before he disappeared into the house.

"That boys got as much trauma as the little one," Horus heard Rodney say softly from behind the door before he continued on into the house.

He found Gav sitting in bed with Joshua and Horus smiled softly at him. Lady Hanna had given him a stuffed wolf. Horus suspected it had been intended for Clive or Joshua as it looked remarkably like Torgal but he wasn't going to tell Gav that. He also didn't think either of the boys would begrudge him the doll.

"Hey boys," Horus greeted.

"Uncle Horus," Gav said and perked up.

"Hey there," Horus said and sat on the edge of the bed like he vaguely remembered his father sitting on his bedside as a lad. It would have been two days for Gav. It was twenty one years for Horus. It felt like remembering a ghost. "Come on, into bed with you. You too, Your Lordships," he told Clive and Joshua as he held the blanket up for Gav to slip under.

Gav did so easily and Joshua and Clive both looked more than a little confused.

"Did Lady Hanna give you this?" Horus asked petting the fake wolf as he would Hati or Torgal.

"Yeah," Gav said. "It looks like Hati and Torgal."

"So it does," Horus agreed. "Does he have a name yet?"

"Sköll," Gav answered.

"Sköll?" Horus asked, taking him gently into his hands and turning him this way and that. "A fine name. I think it suits him," he finally said and handed him back.

"Are you alright?" Gav asked.

"I'm alright," Horus promised with soft proud smile. Was he really this cute as a kid? "Just been a hard few days, huh?"

"Yeah," Gav agreed.

"Are you alright?" Horus asked.

Gav shook his head silently.

Horus reached out to hug him. "Yeah. Me neither," he agreed.

"It's going to get better, Gav. I promise," Horus said.

Gav sniffed and nodded.

Horus sat back and wiped his tears and kissed his forehead. "I will be right across the hall. If you need me for anything, you come get me. Alright?"

Gav nodded.

"Promise?" Horus asked.

"Promise," Gav agreed.

"Alright," Horus agreed. He reached over to ruffle Joshua's hair and glanced across the room at Clive who was laying down watching them curiously. "Alright. Goodnight, boys." He stood up and tucked Joshua and Gav into bed with a brief side stop to tickle Gav and draw a shriek of laughter unwilling from him.

"Uncle Horus," Gav protested.

"Couldn't resist hearing you laugh," Horus defended and kissed his forehead again and turned to leave. He noticed Elwin in the doorway and swallowed before he ushered the Archduke out of the room and left the door opened a crack.

"You are very good with him," Elwin praised.

Horus sighed. "I don't feel it."

"You are," Elwin promised and led the way back to the dining table where Rodney had a bottle of Scarlet Firethorn that he was pouring into three glasses.

"Lady Hanna not one for drinking?" Horus joked.

"No," Rodney answered with a laugh. "She leaves that to the soldiers."

"Come on," Elwin encouraged, clapping Horus on the back and guiding him to a chair. "You need a stiff drink."

"I need something," Horus agreed and took the offered cup. He knew Rosaria nobles had Scarlet Firethorn but it wasn't often available to common folk. He ought to get used to not being quite common folk any longer, he supposed.

"To being in the right place," Elwin said.

"To a bright future," Rodney added.

Horus huffed in amusement at what they were not subtly trying to say. "To changing fate," he said eventually and clinked his cup against theirs and they drank it down.

"Not my favorite drink but it does the job," Elwin said.

"What's the job it's accomplishing tonight?" Horus asked.

"Getting us really really drunk," Elwin answered conspiratorially.

"I'll drink to that," Horus agreed and took another drink. And another. And another.

Eventually he noticed the bottle ran dry and the next and Elwin was leaning into Rodney's side in a way more familiar than simple comrades.

"How long've you two been a thing?" Horus asked, slurring slightly as he remembered Tyler's cryptic comment about them being 'close'.

Elwin and Rodney shared a look and laughed. "Forever," Rodney answered.

"And Lady Hanna?" Horus asked.

"Has a house to keep that doesn't involve drunk husbands and lords," Hanna answered.

"Hanna," Elwin greeted exuberantly.

Hanna sighed. "You two are such lightweights," she accused. "Though Horus doesn't look much better," she added studying the way Horus swayed.

"You don't care?" Horus asked.

"Why should I?" Hanna asked. "I married him to legitimize my advice, not to get laid."

Elwin snorted as he laughed.

"And this lug," Hanna went on.

"Hey," Elwin protested.

"Needs all the help and advice he can get," Hanna went on as if he hadn't spoken.

"You do," Rodney agreed, laughing.

Hanna rolled her eyes. "Are you too drunk to get to bed?" she asked.

"Hanna," Rodney protested.

"Two bottles of my best, Rodney," Hanna countered.

"Oh," Rodney said.

"Yeah. You are going to love traveling hungover in the morning," Hanna reminded.

"Shit," Elwin said, turning his face into Rodney's shoulder.

"Yeah. Be a good Lordling and get some rest," Hanna said. "You too, Horus."

"Aye, Lady Hanna," Horus agreed and stood up, wobbling slightly but straightened himself enough to head to bed, he cast a look back to see Hanna pulling Rodney and Elwin to their feet and sending them off to bed as well. They headed for the room next to Horus and he left his door cracked for Gav if needed and listened to the two other men stumbling and stripping before the bed creaked. Horus took off his outer armor as well and climbed into bed. Thank Greagor the other two were too drunk to be too amorous with three children not too far away. And praise Greagor, or he supposed in Rosaria the Founder, that Hanna had offered to keep an eye on Mayra through the night even before his drinking binge. Horus closed his eye and listened as the house fell into silence, just the soft sounds of the guard rotation outside and the creaking of a new house. He fell asleep easily. The new day could wait as far as he was concerned. His hangover could too. Unfortunately, they did not.

Chapter Text

Morning didn't wait for Horus and neither did the hangover. He groaned and then winced as the light streamed into the room and little voices laughed in the kitchen. He wondered if Elwin and Rodney were going to be as hungover as he was right now. He wouldn't get the answer lazing in bed. He got up with a grunt and washed his face, using the crystal that the Murdoch's had by virtue of their connection to the throne, and drank a goblet of water before he struggled into his armor and headed out to the kitchen. Elwin and Rodney looked like death as they ate a breakfast of sausages, bread, and eggs.

"He lives," Hanna teased.

"Uncle Horus," Gav greeted and dove at him to hug him tight.

Horus grunted as they collided but he wrapped Gav in his arms and swayed them for a moment.

"Sleep alright?" Horus asked.

"Yeah, Torgal joined Clive after you left and Hati tried to smother Joshua and I til we made him lay down at the foot of the bed," Gav admitted.

"He did?" Horus asked. "Well I'm gonna have to have a talk with him. He can't smother my favorite nephew."

"I'm your only nephew, aren't I?" Gav asked.

"So you are," Horus exclaimed. "Means you're my extra special double favorite."

Gav rolled his eyes but he smiled happily.

"Here's your breakfast, Horus," Hanna said, putting a plate down next to Elwin for him to sit and eat.

"Thank you, Lady Hanna," Horus answered and sat down to dig in.

"You look surprisingly alive this morning," she commented. "Compared to those two." She tilted her head on Elwin and Rodney's direction who looked just about asleep in their chairs.

"Apparently I can hold my good liquor better than I thought," Horus teased.

"We don't tend to drink that much Firethorn," Rodney protested.

"Thankfully," Hanna said wryly.

"Hanna," Elwin practically whined.

"Your Grace needs to remember when he's needed to lead the next morning," Hanna reminded mercilessly.

"Hanna, we were just betrayed by my wife," Elwin protested again. "Horus' whole village was slaughtered. Our allies betrayed us. I think we deserved a drink."

"A drink. Not ten," Hanna corrected.

"Better give us, El," Rodney teased. "She never lets go when she's made up her mind."

"What's Firethorn?" Gav asked.

"A drink you may try when you are my age," Horus told him without pause.

"But that'll take forever," Gav protested.

"Oi," Horus protested. "I'm not that old."

"Old enough," Gav grumbled and shrieked when Horus dug his fingers into his side and leapt away.

Horus smirked as Elwin and Rodney both winced at Gav's shriek and earned twin glares. He shot them a wide smile and would have winked if the effect wouldn't have been ruined by his missing eye.

"Finish up, Your Lordships," Hanna said as she cleaned up the dishes from breakfast. "You said leave at dawn. It's after dawn."

Elwin sighed. "I did," he agreed. "Let us get dressed and we can head out to face the masses.

"Better hurry or I will lead them out of town in your stead," Hanna warned. "They like me enough too."

"That they do, If you had been born and trained a soldier, there is no doubt you would make a wonderful Lord Commander," Rodney told her.

"I like you as Lord Commander," Clive told him.

"Thank you, Clive," Rodney said sincerely.

"But Lady Hanna scares me more," Clive admitted.

"Ha," Hanna laughed and Rodney pouted but he winked at Clive when her back was turned.

Clive smiled widely and Rodney took the chance to chivvy Elwin into getting up. Elwin did so reluctantly but they disappeared into their room and Horus was actually surprised with how open they were in here about being together.

Hanna came over with Mayra and passed her to Horus while she took his empty plate.

"Are they always so open about their…" Horus didn't know what to call the relationship between the two men and so just trailed off.

"Here?" Hanna asked. "Yes. It's the one place they are not Archduke and Lord Commander. Though they do tend to tone it down around the boys."

"Father has always loved Uncle Rodney more than mother," Clive explained.

"We know, knew, better than to tell her," Joshua added. "But I think she knew."

"That woman wouldn't notice anything but her own loss of power," Hanna grumbled and then sent Joshua an apologetic look.

"So when we get back to the castle, we need to be careful who we tell," Horus directed at Gav.

"The castle staff know," Hanna assured. "And Rodney and I are divorcing as soon as Anabella is sentenced."

"Oh?" Horus asked.

Hanna finished with the dishes and joined him at the table. "Elwin was arranged to marry Anabella from a young age, before he and Rodney were of age to… engage," she said, nimbly dodging the truth of their interactions. "Rodney needed to marry for appearances and I was not taken seriously at court when I made suggestions on policy. When coming from him, they were suddenly taken more seriously. It worked out. I didn't mind his relationship with Elwin and Elwin could follow my advice without 'letting the womenfolk get uppity'." She rolled her eyes.

"The most ridiculous reason to ignore sound advice I have ever had the misfortune to play to," Elwin added.

"As long as the Archduke is sensible," Hanna teased.

"Are we ready?" Elwin asked looking over the gathered group.

He received a chorus of 'Aye' and 'Yes'.

"We should be back in Rosalith by supper," Rodney added coming up behind him and moving him aside with hands on his waist.

"I'm tired of travelling," Gav complained.

"We'll stop once we reach the castle," Horus assured.

"Good," Gav answered, trotting Sköll across the table top.

The adults chuckled. "I promise, Rosalith is our last stop for now," Horus swore.

"For now, I have three carts filled with things to take to the capitol. Why don't you and Joshua and Clive ride in one of them with Torgal? It'll be more comfortable than a chocobo," Hanna suggested. "Horus and Mayra can ride too. It'll be easier to see to her in a cart than the road."

"Thank you, Lady Hanna," Horus said. "That would be very helpful."

"Ok," Gav agreed.

"Alright. Then let's go make sure the carts are packed and we can fit you in there," Hanna teased. She reached out to offer a hand to Gav who took it without hesitation and the boys left with Hanna to see to the cart.

"It's not my business," Horus acknowledged, "But she doesn't want children?"

"She dotes on our nephew. And the… process of making one, is not something she's interested in. I have offered if she wants. She has always refused me rather vehemently," Rodney answered.

Horus nodded at the answer. He sighed and stood up with Mayra.

"Ready to see Rosalith?" Elwin asked.

"Ready to be off the road," Horus answered, sidestepping the fact he had seen Rosalith before. "For Gav and Mayra's sakes at least."

"I imagine it's hard on the little ones," Elwin agreed. "Marissa will help take good care of Mayra. Her husband is one of the Shields I trust most."

"I'm glad to hear it," Horus admitted. "I'll admit the idea of strangers who not so long ago were under suspicion of treason having her in any capacity is uneasy."

"We won't let anything happen to your little lady. And Jill will love having a younger sister," Elwin told him. "For all they aren't siblings."

"Jill?" Horus asked as if unfamiliar with the name.

"She's a ward. Her father is the Silvermane in the Northern Territories," Elwin told him.

"Oh," Horus said. "I remember vaguely hearing that there was a Northern Princess in Rosaria. Frostwyke avoided the conflict as much as possible. We lived close enough to the border to still be avoiding the Blight for the most part."

"Jill is like a sister to the boys. I have no doubt she'll help take Gav and Mayra under her wing like the boys have," Elwin assured.

"I'd appreciate it. Mayra should have more than boys around her her whole life," Horus teased.

"But she'll have them all wrapped around her fingers," Rodney assured.

"She already seems to have the Archduke in such a state," Horus teased.

"I would have liked a daughter," Elwin admitted. "If it hadn't meant laying with that bint again. Jill has so far been the closest thing and I do my best but… she was still old enough to remember her real family, as kind as I tried to be to her. Anabella's attitude didn't help."

"Well, now you have a chance to do even better," Horus told him.

"That I do," Elwin smiled. He sighed and opened the door. "Onto the breach," he smirked.

Rodney rolled his eyes and followed Elwin out of the house Hanna had the boys and Torgal already situated in a cart with Marissa and Henry, Gareth at it's side. The men made their way over and Horus climbed in after handing Mayra to Gav. He made such a good big brother. Horus wondered if he would have been as good, given the chance without the attack. A useless endeavor but one he couldn't help but consider.

"All ready?" Elwin asked.

"Yes, Your Grace," Tyler answered from the head of the cart. The Shields were in a close approximation of formation and the cart holding Horus and the rest was at the front with Anabella, dress dirty and torn from sleeping on the ground, was near the rear.

"Good," Elwin said and shot Tyler a grateful smile and nod. "Then let's get ready to head out."

He and Rodney headed towards their mounts and the Shields took up formation with Gareth next to the cart along with Tyler and Wade.

"Is it just me, or is the Archduke and Lord Commander being a bit more… obvious?" Wade asked softly as Rodney laid a hand on Elwin's back as he passed him.

"They're being obvious," Tyler agreed.

Horus just smiled secretly with the boys as Wade closed the back panel of the cart and locked it so no one and nothing could go rolling out of the cart.

"Keep your secrets, Horus," Tyler said.

"My secrets?" Horus asked.

Tyler looked at him knowingly and Horus was confused. He didn't have a secret. At least not that involved Elwin and Rodney. Directly. He had the feeling he was missing something.

"Onward, friends," Elwin called out. "To Rosalith."

A cheer went up from the Shields and the villagers seeing them off as Elwin, Rodney and the cart led the way out of Eastpool and towards Martha's Rest. What would be Martha's Rest. How old was she right now?

Horus watched the landscape of Rosaria go past, Mayra in his arms and the boys playing a game Marissa was teaching them with cards she had brought. It was so similar and so different. They passed a Cressida that had people. A Martha's Rest without The Sleeping Chocobo. He thought he caught sight of Martha but she was so young he couldn't be sure. The still unfinished aqueduct. Maybe this time it would be finished. It would look amazing when it was. There were men working on it, even in the early morning. The Shields kept the road clear of hornets and cray claws. They didn't run into any minotaurs, thankfully. The Shields and ducal forces must do more to keep the roads cleared than the Sanbrequois did under the occupation. No surprise. Even the road itself was in better repair, the cart going mostly smoothly over the paved road. So different. He hoped he could make it last this time. Keep the Sanbrequois and Iron Kingdom away. The Iron Kingdom… damn. They'd need dealt with too. If only to keep Jill from their clutches. Would she prime this time? Would Clive? Would Joshua? Could he save them from the curse and Ultima? He'd try. Founder damn it, he'd die trying if that's what it took.

Chapter Text

The call went up of the Archduke's return as they approached Bewit Bridge. The Shields on the bridge looked concerned, their faces relaxing only minutely as they witnessed the Archduke and heirs alive and well and the Archduchess in chains, her noble clothes torn and dirty into ragged hems and her hair a mess of dirt and twigs.

Horus watched as Gav's eyes went wide and he sat up to lean on the edge of the cart as they approached the bridge and passed over it.

"Woah," Gav said, awed. "Is that the ocean?" he asked excitedly.

"Almost," Horus said.

"You can see the ocean from Rosalith. And Uncle Byron lives in Port Isolde. Sometimes Father lets us visit him and that's right on the ocean," Joshua said, jumping up to lean with Gav against the siderail.

"Uncle Byron owns some business and does a lot of shipping of goods around the Twins from the Port," Clive explained to Horus.

"What's he like?" Horus asked, interested to know how Byron could have changed in the intervening years. Especially as he had spent 18 thinking his entire family had been slaughtered in Horus' time.

"If you think Father is casual, Uncle Byron cares even less for courtly airs and graces," Clive answered. "He likes the theatre."

"He's the best Madu in the realms," Joshua cut in.

Clive chuckled but didn't argue. "He can be loud too. Port Isolde is actually really close by down the road," Clive explained and pointed down towards the Port.

"Does he visit Rosalith often?" Horus asked, glancing down the road.

"Sometimes," Clive answered. "But only when he knew Her Grace wasn't going to be there. They don't get along."

"A point in his favor," Horus joked.

Clive laughed softly.

Horus smiled. It felt good to see Clive relaxed and laughing. He had heard it far too seldom in the future-that-wouldn't-be.

Gav watched as the water passed below them and then looked back at Horus. "We're really high up," he said.

"It's safe," Horus assured. "Do you think the Archduke would let us go anywhere that was dangerous? Especially your sister?"

"Hmm," Gav considered.

"I'm insulted, Gav," Elwin called from beside them.

"Sorry, Sir," Gav said sheepishly.

Elwin chuckled and reached over to ruffle his hair. "We inspect the bridge often," he promised. "It's perfectly safe."

"Alright," Gav said doubtfully, looking over the edge again.

"Clive was just telling me about Uncle Byron," Horus teased.

Elwin sighed.

"Said he was worse than you," Horus continued.

Rodney laughed from the other side of the cart as Elwin shot Clive a mild glare.

"He is," Clive defended with a shrug.

"I have already sent a runner to Port Isolde to let him know of our return and Anabella's arrest," Elwin said. "And I will be telling him you said that."

Clive paled. "But he won't play Madu if you tell him that," he complained.

"Oh well," Elwin teased.

Clive sat back and Horus could tell he was fighting a pout. Elwin smirked and exchanged a look with Rodney and winked at Horus.

Horus smirked back even as the wink had him confused. Was that what Tyler had meant? Did Tyler think he was somehow privy to something to do with the Archduke and Lord Commander?

He caught Tyler hiding a smile and was even more confused.

As they approached the end of the bridge, Horus had to remind himself that he was not going to see the city in rubble. The Iron Kingdom had not yet attacked as news of Elwin's death had not reached the wider world — since he wasn't dead, thank Greagor — nor had Kupka attacked in an effort to drag Clive from hiding.

The gates of the city were opened with no enemies on the way and the call went through the city of their return. The citizenry flooded the streets in confusion, pointing at Anabella being dragged along behind the cart in confusion and no small amount of glee. Horus didn't blame them.

The gates to the castle were not open, and as they waited for the gate to raise, Elwin cast a sidelong look at Rodney that spoke volumes about their connectedness. As soon as they had entered, the Shields with them flooded the castle and restrained all their fellow Shields and the servants. until they could be interrogated. The ladies-in-waiting had confessed to some other spies in the castle but couldn't say with certainty if the ones they knew were all of them. Horus kept Gav out of the way as the Shields dispersed and the cart was opened to let them out.

"Wade," Elwin said. "Please escort Horus and Gav to a room in the family wing. I don't want to risk traitors if anyone finds out they were the ones to warn us."

Horus swallowed. He hadn't even considered that. "Thank you, Your Grace," Horus said.

Elwin nodded and as Clive and Joshua joined Horus and Gav and Mayra, Marissa and Henry went with Gareth to the servants wing. She would be given a space nearby but the rest of her things could be left in the servant's quarters until Mayra was weaned and Marissa was merely her nurse instead of her wet nurse.

Jill greeted them in the entrance hall with wide eyes.

"Clive?" she asked as she came to his side.

"Jill," Clive greeted.

"What's going on, Clive? Why are you back so soon?" Jill asked.

"Come with us," Clive said and they followed as Wade led them all to the royal wing and set them up in a room reserved for cousins.

"Here you are, Horus," Wade said. "I have no doubt His Grace will return to speak with you soon. For now, I will be standing guard outside if you need anything."

"Thank you, Wade," Horus said sincerely.

"I'll also see that Marissa comes up to feed the little Lady," Wade said as Mayra started to fuss.

"Thank you," Horus said again.

"Clive?" Jill hissed. "Who is that?"

"This is Horus, Jill," Clive introduced and Horus nodded at her with a smile. There was no doubts at all that was Jill. "And his nephew Gav and niece Mayra. Horus warned us that Her Grace had betrayed us. Sanbreque attacked Phoenix Gate the night we arrived. She intended to kill His Grace."

"And you, Clive," Joshua pointed out.

"She what?" Jill demanded angrily.

"We didn't let her," Horus said. "And I have no doubts she is currently in the dungeons awaiting further investigation and sentencing."

"You saved them," Jill said.

Horus nodded.

"How did you know?" She asked.

"The Imperials attacked Frostwyke, our home," Horus explained. "They burnt it to the ground in an effort to hide their movements. They mentioned what they were doing, like idiots. I wasn't about to let them get away with another slaughter."

"Frostwyke?" Jill asked. "That's in the Northern Territories."

"It is," Horus agreed. "Come on. Let's get comfortable. Gav, can you get out one of Mayra's changes of clothes if we have any. She needs changed again."

"Of course, Uncle Horus," Gav said and started to unpack the bag he had grabbed from the cart.

"She's tiny," Jill said.

"She's only three days old," Horus pointed out.

"Is Her Grace going to be put to death?" Jill asked softly.

"Likely," Horus answered.

Jill cast a look at Joshua. "I can't be sorry for her."

"No," Horus said. "I imagine she wasn't kind to you."

"Said I was nothing but a tool and I should be glad I was in the castle and not the dungeons as a prisoner of war," Jill admitted.

"The more I learn people kept from me, the more I hate her," Elwin said from the doorway.

"Your Grace," Jill exclaimed, jumping up and bowing.

"No need for that, Jill," Elwin told her. "I just really wish people had let me know just how far she was overstepping her bounds."

"She'll pay," Rodney assured from behind him.

"That she will," Elwin said. "Out, boys, I want to talk to Horus and you need to get some rest. Gav, there is a room next to Joshua you can take."

Gav shot a nervous look at Horus. "I'll be right here and I will see you before supper. Promise."

Gav nodded before he left with Joshua and Jill and Clive.

Horus sighed as the door closed. "You needed something, Your Grace?" he asked.

"I want to make sure we are meeting all your needs," Elwin explained, sitting gingerly on the edge of the chair set at the room's table.

"My needs?" Horus asked. "We just got here, Your Grace. I don't have any at the moment."

Elwin made a face at the title but Horus wasn't sure if the casualness of Eastpool lingered. "I've put you in the family wing as I said to keep you better protected should any traitors make it through our interrogations. Let me know if they don't work for you. They were Hanna's rooms before she married Rodney. She was a cousin."

"I see," Horus said, unclear why he was being told such.

"She'll be moving into Rodney's rooms as he moves into mine," Elwin went on. "We'll be just down the hall. Gav is next door, followed by Joshua. Clive and Jill are across the hall. We can put Mayra and Marissa and Henry next to her if you'd like but I figured for now, you might like having her close."

"I would," Horus said, still confused.

Elwin cast a look up at Rodney who was leaning on the table next to him.

"Is there anything we could be missing to make your stay here more enjoyable?" Elwin asked.

"I'm used to being on the road, Your Grace. A bed is more than enough to make me comfortable," Horus reminded him.

"You'll let us know if that changes?" Rodney insisted.

"Of course," Horus answered.

"Good," Elwin said. "Well," he sighed. "We'll let you get settled. The interrogations should last most of the week. We are also investigating her crimes and sentencing will take place once the castle staff have been cleared. We are starting with the kitchen staff to ensure nothing nefarious makes it into any food."

"Good plan," Horus said.

Elwin looked like he wanted to say something more but he didn't. He clapped Horus on the shoulder as he moved to leave the room with Rodney.

"That was odd," Horus said aloud to the empty room. The only answer was Mayra's cooing. He shook his head and looked down at her, continuing with the search for clean clothes to change her into. He really didn't need another mystery. But at least this one, he hoped, had less dire stakes.

Chapter Text

Horus had no idea how people did this regularly. Or more than once. He hadn't had a full night's sleep in days. Mayra was up several times during the night. Sometimes to eat, sometimes to be changed. And Horus swore sometimes she was up just to be up. It was wearing him down. He had a great respect for all mothers now. Greater respect for them. He was doing his best and thankfully the recency of their arrival and the ongoing interrogations meant he had very little to really do during the days except watch the kids.

Gav and Joshua were thick as thieves recently with Jill the much needed voice of reason. They spent much of their time in the bailey watching Clive train with the Shields that had shown themselves trustworthy. Horus would go out with them at times and he could see the early stages of his Clive's prowess. Though he feared much of it may end up lost as this Clive was not going to spend thirteen years as an Imperial assassin.

"Horus," Elwin's voice rang out from behind him as he joined the kids in cheering for Clive.

"Yes, Your Grace?" Horus asked, turning.

"Will you come with us, please?" Elwin asked turning with the expectation Horus would follow, because of course he would.

"What seems to be the matter, Your Grace?" Horus asked as they entered the throne room and Elwin took his spot on the throne.

"We've finished the interrogations of the castle staff," Elwin explained. "There were less than I feared but more than enough." He sighed. "We will be sentencing Anabella tomorrow."

"I see," Horus said. "And the conspirators?"

"Will die a traitors death," Elwin said simply.

"I am sorry it came to this, Your Grace," Horus said truthfully.

"As am I," Elwin agreed. "I know you promised Joshua to not make them be present. And I would not have them bear witness if it can be helped. For all her crimes, she is still their mother."

"Not much of one," Rodney grumbled.

Elwin rolled his eyes.

"And what can I do about this, Your Grace?" Horus asked.

"I was hoping you would keep them busy during the actual execution," Elwin admitted. "She will be paraded, in rags and chains through the streets of the capitol. Stripped of rank and title. And I will have her branded with a traitors mark and put in a pauper's grave."

"Sounds like hell for her from what I've picked up of her… values, if you can call them that," Horus said with a wry smirk.

"I hope so," Elwin admitted.

"I only wish she could spend more time in such a state," Rodney said.

"Servitude would suit her," Horus said. "If we could ensure she wouldn't gather more conspirators and betray us anyways."

"And that is what decides her fate," Elwin admitted. "She is to be beheaded once the circuit of the city is completed. I don't want the kids there. Any of them. Though I would not refuse Clive should he ask to attend. Of all of us, she has done him the most harm."

"He's too kind hearted to bear witness to that. Perhaps if he had been hardened by war and death but he is still just a boy," Horus said.

"I agree," Elwin said simply. He sighed. "Damn her for this," he hissed and pounded his fist on the armrest of the throne.

"You couldn't have stopped her," Horus said.

"I could have done more to mitigate her poison," Elwin said.

"Whether that is true or not, we will never know," Horus pointed out. "The only one to blame for Anabitch is Anabitch."

Rodney laughed at Horus' nickname and Elwin joined him.

"You are truly a breath of fresh air," Rodney said.

"Perhaps I have a future as a court jester," Horus said wryly.

"No, I would not belittle your skills so far," Elwin promised.

"As long as you recognize my value," Horus joked.

"We do," Elwin assured with a fond earnestness. It made Horus blush for some reason, the steady fond regard the two men were looking at him with.

"Is there anything else I can help you with, Your Grace?" Horus asked after a moment.

"No," Elwin said. "How are you settling in?"

"Well," Horus answered. "Your luxury takes a bit of getting used to."

"Well, best get used to it," Elwin said. "It'll get worse."

"Oh?" Horus asked.

"We've been distracted by the traitors but the court finery is something to boggle the mind," Rodney warned.

"We'll be getting you fitted for some court appropriate clothes," Elwin said. "Have to have choices for the court appearances."

Horus looked shocked.

"You're a part of the castle court now, Horus," Elwin teased. "Too late to back out."

"Are you sure?" Horus grumbled.

"You wouldn't leave Gav or Mayra," Elwin said with certainty.

"True," Horus said. "I suppose I'm stuck here then."

"It's not a prison," Elwin assured.

"It's too beautiful to be a prison," Horus agreed.

"We are proud of it," Elwin said.

They lapsed into silence, Horus unsure of what else there was to say.

"I'd like to see you in the training ring, if you have time," Rodney said. "See what you're capable of."

"Name a time," Horus said.

"Do you have time, right now?" Rodney asked.

"I think I can make time," Horus joked.

"Then let's see you in the ring," Elwin said and stood from the throne to lead the way back to the bailey.

Clive wasn't in the ring any longer. It was Tyler and Wade, though they seemed to be demonstrating something for the little Lords and Ladies. Though Mayra, in Jill's arms seemed unimpressed.

"Tyler, Wade," Rodney called. "Out. We want to see Horus' blade work."

Tyler and Wade obediently left the ring but they took up spots with the rest of the entourage to watch as Rodney and Horus pulled their blades, real blades and not the training blades.

Horus was used to Imperials. He was used to bandits. He was used to beasts. He was not used to Shields. But that didn't mean he was going to make this easy on Rodney.

They both took up spots as the bailey gathered to watch. Elwin himself was behind Clive with his hands on his shoulders.

"You can do it, Uncle Horus," Gav said.

"And if you do, you might just have a future as Lord Commander," Elwin teased.

"Now I can't let you win," Rodney joked to Horus.

"There was no letting me do anything," Horus said. "I'll try not to embarrass you too badly."

"I won't promise the same," Rodney teased and lunged.

Horus jumped out of the way, circling the ring as he studied how Rodney moved before he struck out. Their swords rang out as they collided and Horus said a thank you to Blackthorne for the good steel. The sounds of the bailey faded to the background as Horus fought. He had had three years to get used to fighting without Clive but he had had Torgal and had to hold himself back from calling commands to the hound who sat watching them, tense like he wanted to join in.

Rodney and Horus traded the advantage back and forth until Horus thought he saw a glint of a weapon from the corner of his eye and spun to knock the knife from the air before it buried itself in either of them. He used the momentum to duck and get under Rodney's guard and landed a blow with the hilt of his sword against Rodney's gut and pushed him out of the way of any future thrown weapons and onto the ground. He over compensated and ended up landing on top of him with an oomph.

Rodney eyed the knife buried in the dirt inches from his face and then up at Elwin who was glaring at a Shield who was being constrained by his fellows while standing in front of the kids, and behind Tyler and Wade who had put themselves between their liege and the danger.

"I'm not usually that clumsy anymore," Horus said as he pushed himself to his feet and reached down to help Rodney up.

"Anymore, eh?" Rodney teased and then sobered as he got a look at the Shield who threw the knife. "You aren't one of my Shields," he accused.

"You will bow to my Emperor and the might of Bahamut," the man hissed.

"Even should that happen, which it won't, you'll be too dead to know," Elwin told him and gestured for him to be taken away.

"That was stupid of him," Clive said.

"That was desperate of him," Horus corrected. "They must really want to get Anabella out if they are willing to attack in the middle of the bailey."

"So you saved his life and beat him at the same time," Elwin praised. "Are you looking for a promotion?"

"I think I've got all the work I can handle, Your Grace," Horus joked, ruffling Gav's hair as he wrapped around Horus' waist.

"Father?" Joshua asked, confused.

"Yes, Joshua?" Elwin encouraged.

"Is Dion helping his father?" Joshua asked.

"I wouldn't think so," Horus assured him.

"How do you know?" Joshua asked.

"Because from what I understand of the young Prince, he is a noble sort who would not disgrace his people so to turn on an ally," Horus told him.

"But will he?" Joshua asked. "In the future?"

"I suppose we will have to make him see sense before that happens," Horus said.

"How?" Joshua asked.

"By keeping in touch with him," Horus told him.

"Can I do it now?" Joshua asked and then looked at Elwin.

"You may use a stolas," Elwin said. "We have not officially broken any treaties with them yet."

"If you fear contacting Dion directly," Horus said, "He's close with a servant or squire named Terence. I didn't catch his surname."

Elwin shot him an odd look as did Rodney but they nodded.

"Go send a stolas to Terence and ask him if he will be willing to act as a liaison between you and the prince," Elwin said. "All of you can craft the letter. Go on."

The kids all took their leave, Jill leaving Mayra with Marissa as she ran off with the boys.

"How do you know that?" Elwin asked Horus. "No one pays that much mind to squires."

"Lucky hunch?" Horus offered.

"His name is a lucky hunch?" Elwin pushed.

"I've just heard that he spends most of his time in the presence of a boy named Terence," Horus tried. "It's just a guess if he's a squire or something else."

"Are you sure you are just a scout?" Rodney asked.

"What else would I be?" Horus asked.

"You know an awful lot about the Imperials," Elwin said.

"I know an awful lot about Rosaria too. And Waloed. I pay attention and I travel," Horus defended.

"What do you know about Waloed?" Elwin asked.

"I know Barnabas Tharmr appears much younger than he should and has a Lord Commander who is Ramuh. I know his previous Lord Commander Harbard is not named Harbard and also seems to not age much. Rumor has it Barnabas has made a deal with his god to stay young in exchange for complete loyalty and he was raised by the Cult of Malius in the Outer Continents. I know Cidolfus Telamon, his current Lord Commander, is also from the Outer Continents."

"How? Waloed is on lockdown," Rodney protested.

"They still have to come to land to fight," Horus explained. "And their soldiers talk as much as anyone else."

"What do you know about the Iron Kingdom?" Elwin asked, curiously.

"They deserve to die," Horus said simply. What they did to Jill… No, the Iron Blood could all burn in the fires of Mount Drustanus for all he cared.

"A common sentiment," Elwin agreed.

"I've only heard rumors of what they do to Bearers in Mount Drustanus and I will not repeat them but it's enough to turn my stomach," Horus admitted. "Their Patriarch deserves the worst of deaths."

"I see," Elwin said. "Well, perhaps we can give him that. We were at Phoenix Gate for Joshua to commune with our ancestors in the apodetry before we march against the Iron Kingdom to reclaim the Mothercrystal."

"I see," Horus said, trying to not let his bitterness that the crystals were back color his tone.

"We will have to reevaluate our plans as Sanbreque seems to be betraying us," Elwin told him.

"Perhaps discuss with their council rather than the Emperor," Horus suggested. "He was the one Anabella was in contact with if my information is correct. They may not be informed of his actions."

"A good suggestion," Elwin said.

"Perhaps we should discuss this elsewhere," Rodney mentioned pointedly and Elwin nodded, leading the way back into the castle and towards his rooms.

"We will be asking to meet with them on neutral territory to discuss this betrayal," Elwin said as he poured three goblets of wine. "We can bring up the need to speak to a council member instead of the Emperor as he is the instigator."

"If you mention Dion's true parentage they may have what they need to unseat him," Horus said, accepting his goblet with a nod of thanks.

"His parentage?" Rodney asked as he made himself comfortable sprawled on one of the chairs at the table.

"Dion was born to a prostitute. Sylvestre had her killed along with his wife when Dion was born to hide the fact," Horus explained.

"Well," Elwin said, shocked. "At least his actions are consistent."

"Consistently terrible," Rodney continued.

"He is not a pleasant man. Unfortunately, Dion does idolize his father and so his faith will need to be broken if you intend to befriend Bahamut," Horus added.

"No doubt," Elwin said. "But he is young enough and with Joshua and them all intent on befriending him, we may just yet win him to our side." He took a drink of his wine and gestured Horus to a spare chair. He himself sat in Rodney's lap.

"He is," Horus agreed. It was still strange to think of them all as children. When would that cease? "I wonder…" he said to himself.

"What do you wonder?" Rodney asked.

"I wonder, if the council doesn't want to dethrone Sylvestre, if threatening to spread the truth through the people and threatening their grasp on the citizenry would force their hand. And I also wonder if asking for Dion and his companion to be warded her like Jill to ensure Sylvestre does not break the treaty again, would be useful. I imagine the poor boy doesn't get to socialize much and we seem to be collecting every other stray."

"I wouldn't call you a stray," Rodney teased.

Horus looked up as if he had forgotten he was speaking aloud. "Habit," he admitted.

"To call yourself a stray?" Elwin asked.

"He always did," Horus admitted. "It was fondly enough said but he was always collecting the ones no one else wanted."

"He?" Elwin asked gently.

Horus' smile at thinking about Cid dropped. "He died," Horus said simply and took a drink.

"I'm sorry to hear that," Elwin said. "If he was worthy of that much respect from you, he must have been a wonderful man."

"He was," Horus agreed. "Mad as a hatter sometimes," he chuckled. "Had this goal, and nothing would talk him out of it. And smart as a whip. He designed and built things I couldn't even dream of. Heart of gold. He's the one that made the Bearers people. Had a dream. A place to die on our own terms. Morphed eventually when… well. Another of his strays. To live on our own terms. And destroy the Mothercrystals of course."

Horus looked up as Rodney choked on his wine. "What?" Elwin asked.

"The Mothercrystals. They're the reason for the Blight after all," Horus explained.

"How do you figure that?" Elwin demanded.

"Well, think about it," Horus said. "Your crystals," he looked around and grabbed one. "Where's it come from?"

"Inside the Mothercrystals," Elwin answered, sitting up to pay attention.

"Exactly. It's a part of the Mothercrystal. And how does it work?" Horus asked. "By taking ambient aether from the environment, storing it, and releasing it," he went on when they didn't answer. "And so what could a crystal the size of one of the Mothercrystals do? How much aether is it absorbing and not releasing?"

"They're huge," Elwin said, considering.

"Exactly," Horus said. "They are huge and they are constantly sucking up aether. It's the same thing that causes the curse on Bearers. They use up their aether and they turn to lifeless rock devoid of aether. If you've ever been to the Deadlands, the soil there is just as dead. If I didn't see the Bearers crumble myself, I wouldn't be able to tell the difference between Blight soil and a dead Bearer."

Elwin reached out for the crystal and held it in his hand. "But to destroy them?" he asked.

"It's the only way to stop them sucking up everything," Horus said. "It's not the only obstacle but…" Horus sighed and took a drink of his wine.

"What do you mean not the only obstacle," Rodney asked.

"There are powers beyond those of men who do not want the crystals destroyed," Horus answered. "Not only would it disrupt the power of governments but the Circle of Malius that Barnabas grew up with. They worship this thing called Ultima. Apparently he made the crystals and Bearers to accomplish something. The Eikons too."

"What something?" Rodney asked.

"Unclear so far," Horus lied.

"The Undying might know," Elwin said. "Or at least they can find the answer."

"The Undying?" Horus asked, as if he didn't know the answer.

"Is that the one thing you don't know?" Elwin joked.

"It's something I'm not supposed to know, I presume," Horus admitted.

"But you do," Rodney accused.

Horus just shrugged.

"The secret followers of the Phoenix," Elwin said. "I will ask them to look into this before I take any actions in destroying Mothercrystals."

"I would expect no less," Horus agreed.

"You know too much," Rodney said.

"Are you complaining?" Horus asked.

"I'm not sure yet," Rodney admitted.

"You can always let me know," Horus told him.

"We will," Elwin promised.

Horus just raised his glass in a silent salute and drank the rest of his wine. He'd let them think on what he'd said. It was risky revealing so much but… maybe they could lessen the risk for Clive and Cid and Jill and Joshua and Dion in the future. He hoped so at least. Founder did he hope so.

Chapter Text

Horus left Elwin and Rodney reeling from what he had revealed and he hoped he hadn't broken them too horribly. They had made it quite a ways through the wine jug when he had left. He sorely hoped this didn't backfire on him. He left them to their drinking to hunt down Gav and the others, stopping by his rooms to find Marissa watching Mayra and Henry playing together.

"Hello, Marissa," he greeted. Henry was on his tummy, propped up looking at Mayra as she flailed on the floor in front of him. Marissa was sewing something as she watched them.

"Hello, Lord Horus," she greeted.

He frowned and stopped short. "I am no Lord, Marissa," he pointed out.

She hummed in response. "That may change," she said simply.

"What are you on about?" he asked.

"His Grace seems quite taken with you. And you are in the royal wing. I wouldn't be surprised if a Lordship is on its way to you," she explained.

Horus opened his mouth to refute that but he had no defense. He had himself been questioning what Elwin and Rodney were doing involving him so much. He was so confused. They were… not what he expected. He had suspected Byron was an outlier in terms of royalty with his exuberance and welcoming attitude. But Elwin, despite the conventions of his office, and Rodney, despite the conventions of his, were… casual… with Horus. And with the kids. And each other, no surprise. And even with certain of the Shields like Tyler and to a lesser extent Wade. He didn't know what to do about it.

Clive had had an excuse, thirteen years a slave was more than enough to rid someone of any graces. Cid was never much one for protocol, too much a rebel. And Gav had been at ease with them. But Elwin and Rodney? They made Horus uneasy as much as they settled him. He was fond of them. They were nothing and everything like Cid and Clive. And not only because they were directly related to the latter. They were accomplished swordsmen. Effective leaders. Kind, if a little more stern. Funny. Even if Clive's had been a drier sense of humor than Cid's or the two men in the here and now.

Horus sighed and sat on the floor next to Mayra and held a stuffed coeurl in front of her and tempted her to reach for it as he thought. Was that what it was? Did they remind Horus of Cid and Clive? Maybe. But they were their own too. But what did that mean? If anything. Did it have to mean something? They were being kind and solicitous for now but had made no overt moves. Did Horus want them to? He didn't know. It felt… it felt almost like betraying Cid and Clive despite not ever having anything with them. But the memory of them… The memory of two men who would never exist anywhere but in Horus' memories. Solely his memories.

He felt that almost clawing emptiness in his chest again at the just how alone and singular he was here. At least at the Hideaway, even if everyone else had moved on, they still knew. They knew Cid and they knew Clive and every thing around them was a monument to their accomplishments. And now it felt like it was all hollow. It didn't matter that the Mothercrystals were destroyed because Horus had to face them again. It didn't matter that Origin was gone because it still hung up there, invisible. It didn't matter that Ultima was dead because they were still out there, biding their time until they could try to claim Clive. And Horus would be dead and cold before he let that happen.

Marissa sat in silence for a time as she continued her sewing and then picked Henry up and bid Horus a farewell as she left the room.

Horus didn't notice. He just laid on his side, playing with Mayra until she started to fuss and he picked her up. He checked her and she didn't need changed. He tried a bottle and she didn't want milk. So it was a cry just to cry session. He bounced her lightly around the room and when he got tired of the same four walls, he took her for a walk through the halls.

The guards shot him sympathetic looks as he passed and Horus smiled at them ruefully. He was on another circuit of the second floor when Mayra started to settle and looked about to fall asleep. He slowed slightly so she was jostled less and looked up to see he was standing above the throne room, he paused and glanced down simply to take a short rest and saw Elwin on his throne, Rodney sitting on the armrest as the kissed. He flushed lightly and started walking again. He cast another glance down before he passed out of sight of the throne room to see Rodney looking up at him. Horus flushed harder and ducked his head, hurrying away.

He was tempted to skip supper with everyone but figured it might be rude. Or at the least would send a poor message to Elwin and Rodney. So he forced himself to attend supper with Mayra despite wanting to sleep. The kids were exuberant as they recalled everything they had included in their letter to Terence and Dion. It seemed they couldn't agree on what to tell them so they all had written a separate letter. The postmaster had helped them fold them into small enough packages to be attached to a stolas' leg and sent out. It took two of them for all four letters.

Horus listened with Elwin, Rodney, and Hanna as the kids chattered. It was so warm and welcoming, not like when Horus had last lived this time period: cold, hungry, alone. He was so glad he could give himself this experience.

"Clive, Joshua, Jill," Elwin said as the chatter wore down.

"Yes, father?" Joshua asked.

"Anabella is going to be sentenced tomorrow," Elwin said. "You do have to be there for the actual sentencing but then all of you will be staying with Horus in the castle for the actual punishment to be carried out. Unless you want to be there, Clive. As Joshua's First Shield and inarguably the one most impacted by Anabella's vitriol, you may be present if you wish. But it is not expected of you."

Clive looked down as he thought. "I would rather not be," he finally answered. "She's not worth my time," he justified.

"No. No, she isn't," Elwin agreed.

"May I be excused?" Clive asked.

"Of course," Elwin said. "If you are all done, you may leave."

"Thank you," Clive said and left the table. Joshua, Jill, and Gav all exchanged looks before following after him.

"I wish I had done this long before now," Elwin said.

"There was no proof of a crime against her," Hanna reminded.

"No but she's… not ruined, but… traumatized all three of them. Clive and Jill act like every evidence of their existence is a crime and Joshua has forgotten, or never learned, how to have fun," Elwin said.

"That's not your fault," Horus told him. "They are young. They will adapt and heal. They won't be traumatized t-now." Not this time.

"He's right, El," Rodney added. "And we'll be able to have Joshua and Clive with us and Jill with Hanna and those we trust."

"I…" Horus began. "I might recommend…"

"Yes?" Elwin asked.

"I recommend training Jill in swordsmanship as well. Along with Joshua," Horus suggested. "If Joshua will be on the front lines as the Phoenix, he will need to know how to defend himself at the least. As for Jill… Even those not trained in the sword can still die by them. It will give her something to do with her days as well and a sense of control."

"Not a bad suggestion," Hanna said. "Would also make a statement about a woman's place in Rosaria."

"And show Jill that you value her as more than a pawn," Horus added.

"You think…" Elwin started.

"I have no doubts that that is what Anabitch told her and enforced," Horus said. "Jill admitted it. Anabella told her she should be happy to not be in the dungeons as a prisoner of war."

Elwin sighed and nodded. "I can make the offer at least. And you are right about Joshua. Anabella kept him coddled. If anyone was the pawn around here it was him. Thankfully with her out of the way, his health should take a turn for the better too."

Horus looked at him confused.

"I don't know how to tell him she was poisoning him to keep him frail," Elwin admitted quietly. "It's going to be announced and put on the pamphlets detailing her crimes but…"

"You need to tell him soon, El," Rodney insisted. "He shouldn't learn that from a pamphlet or gossip."

"I know," Elwin said. "You're right."

"Go see him tonight," Horus suggested. "Check in on him before tomorrow. Might want to do that for all of them. At bedtime. Make sure they are all handling this well in private."

"Yeah," Elwin said. "Tuck them in like Gav?" he teased.

"His father always did," Horus explained. "One of the few times he got undivided attention from his father."

"It's a good idea," Elwin said. "Maybe I should take to it as well."

"Couldn't hurt. Make sure they know you do care to see and talk to them," Hanna agreed.

"And you'll even take time out of your day to do so," Rodney added. "Especially as their only parent."

"Only?" Elwin asked. "What happened to their stepfather?"

"You know what I mean," Rodney protested, exasperated.

Elwin chuckled. "Well, if I have three children to see to, I'd best get to it," he said and stood up.

The rest of them joined him and went their separate ways in the royal hall. Horus handed Mayra off to Hanna to settle her in her crib for him while he went to say good night to Gav.

Horus knocked on Gav's door softly and cracked open the door. "Is my favorite nephew still awake?" he asked, poking his head in the door.

"Aye, Uncle Horus," Gav said, sitting up in bed with Sköll in his arms.

"Good, my favorite part of the day," Horus said as he came in and closed the door until it was just cracked open.

Gav rolled his eyes but he was smiling.

"Come on then, under the covers," Horus said, picking up the blanket for him to slip under.

"Is Anabella really going to die tomorrow?" Gav asked.

"Yes," Horus admitted softly.

"She was mean to Clive," Gav said. "And Jill. And Joshua said she would sometimes get angry if he didn't do exactly what she said. And then she'd make him drink this awful tasting tea."

"I see," Horus said. "Did Joshua say anything else about that?"

"He said it made his tummy feel bad and he felt sick afterwards. And hot. He said sometimes after she gave him the tea, it felt like the Phoenix wanted to burn him alive," Gav said.

"Well," Horus said. "His Grace is talking to Joshua and Clive and Jill tonight. And you are not to say a word to anyone, can you promise me that?"

Gav nodded eagerly.

"Your pinkie on it?" Horus asked, sticking his pinkie out for Gav to hook with his own.

"Anabella," Horus started. "Anabella has been making Joshua sick for a long time. On purpose. So she could control him."

"But she's his mum," Gav exclaimed, horrified.

"I know," Horus said sadly. "Sometimes… sometimes parents don't do the right thing for their kids. You remember how Bearers have that brand on their faces?"

Gav nodded.

"And you remember how the only difference between them and us is that they can do cool things with magic?" Horus continued.

Gav nodded again.

"Well, not everyone thinks it's cool. In fact, most people don't. And because they don't think it's cool, if their baby shows signs of doing magic, they give it away and call it a monster."

"But," Gav protested.

"I know," Horus said. "It's another of those not right things. But every Bearer is from a family that didn't want them because of their cool magic."

"Uncle Horus," Gav said really quietly, voice thick with tears. "I saw Mayra do a cool thing. You're not gonna give her away, are you?"

"Look at me," Horus said and waited until Gav met his serious gaze. "I would never give any of you away."

"Would mama?" Gav asked.

"I don't know," Horus answered. "But I won't."

"I was playing with her while Marissa hunted out some clothes for her. And Mayra was flailing, like she does, and then her hands collided, like she clapped but I think it was an accident. And when they did, there was water all over. I hurried up and spilt the water cup sitting next to her so Marissa wouldn't know," Gav explained.

"Thank you for telling me," Horus said. "I'm going to keep an eye on her and I will not let anyone hurt her or take her away. If they try, they'll answer to me and my sword. Okay?"

Gav nodded tearfully.

Horus reached out to hug him tight. "We're going to be okay," he promised. "Now, to bed." He pulled back and wiped Gav's eyes, pet Sköll, and tucked them both in. He pressed a kiss to Gav's forehead before he left the room and closed the door, leaning against it for a moment in utter fear before he saw Elwin coming out of Jill's room.

"Everything alright, Horus?" Elwin asked.

Horus shook his head slightly with wide eyes.

"What's wrong?" Elwin asked, coming up next to him, just a step too close to be completely polite.

"Later," Horus said. "Have you been to everyone?"

"I saved Joshua for last as I fear that will be the hardest one," Elwin admitted.

"Joshua knows," Horus said. "Kind of."

"What?" Elwin asked.

"Gav just said Joshua admitted that sometime Anabella got really angry with him if he refused to do something she said and made him drink a disgusting tea that made him feel like the Phoenix was going to burn him alive and made his stomach hurt," Horus told him.

"Maybe I should wait and draw out her execution," Elwin hissed.

"But that's not why you are so shaken," Elwin said.

Horus opened his mouth but couldn't say anything.

"Go wait in my room," Elwin said. "I'll be there as soon as I finish with Joshua."

Horus hesitated but Elwin met his gaze with a fond worry that Horus wanted to trust. Elwin had also said he wanted to help Horus free the Bearers. But was he telling the truth? Horus finally nodded and headed down the hall toward Elwin's room and knocked, hearing Rodney invite him in.

This was going to be a difficult conversation. He almost wanted to go get Mayra and never let her out of his sight again. But that would be suspicious. Right now, he had to keep calm. Elwin would help. So would Rodney. Even Hanna. They had to. Horus really didn't want to have to go on the run when Gav was so happy here. But he would. He promised. He'd keep them safe. He had to.

Chapter Text

"Horus?" Rodney asked as he opened the door, Horus having not gotten up the courage to do so himself after being bid to enter. "What's wrong?"

Horus couldn't answer. He didn't know how to even start. This isn't something that you just say. You aren't supposed to tell anyone. But he needed the help keeping Mayra safe.

Rodney reached out and guided Horus into the room and to sit on the sofa in front of the fire. He disappeared for a moment to pour him a cup of the good Firethorn and was back in moments.

Horus sat as directed and buried his face in his hands until Rodney nudged the glass into his line of sight.

"I have a feeling you could use that," Rodney said and sat beside him.

Horus stared at the liquid in the cup. He couldn't really afford to get drunk but… fuck it. He swigged it back in one large gulp.

"Woah," Rodney said and took the cup from him, only dregs left. "Slow down," he warned, placing a steadying hand on Horus' back.

Horus just hung his head in his hands again and they sat in a silence that dragged on in long minutes until Elwin returned.

Rodney and Horus both looked up and he could see Elwin give Rodney a small shake of the head before he joined them on Horus' other side.

"You want to tell me what has you so upset?" Elwin asked.

Horus ran his hands through his hair.

"Gav…" Horus began and trailed off.

"Is he alright?" Elwin asked.

"Aye. No. Maybe. He will be. I think," Horus answered.

"You aren't making any sense," Rodney pointed out.

"I know," Horus said. "I just…" he leapt up and started to pace.

"Horus," Elwin said. "Whatever it is, we're with you."

"Mayra's a Bearer," he blurted.

"What?" Elwin asked.

"I swear if you send her away, I'll kill you right now," Horus warned.

Elwin put his hands up non-threateningly even as Rodney tensed.

"We're not going to do anything but I need you to explain," Elwin said calmly.

"Gav saw her make water," Horus said. "And that isn't a euphemism. She clapped her hands and they exploded with water."

"He's sure?" Elwin asked.

"He wouldn't lie about that," Horus insisted.

"No. No, I know," Elwin said and rubbed his lips with his forefinger.

"I will not let her be Branded or used," Horus swore.

"No, we aren't asking you to," Elwin assured.

Horus frowned in confusion.

"Horus, We said we are with you. We meant that," Rodney reminded him.

"But she's a Bearer," Horus said again.

"Yes, and it will be complicated but we will handle it," Rodney told him.

"And your treaties?" Horus asked, still confused.

"Sanbreque broke it first. I see no reason why we should be held to such a standard when they are not," Elwin pointed out. "But we need to do this intelligently.

"Even with three Eikons, you think you can stand against the whole of the Twins?" Horus asked and then grimaced.

"Three?" Elwin asked. "You said you and Gav weren't Bearers."

"We aren't," Horus agreed.

"Then Dominants," Elwin corrected.

"We aren't," Horus said again.

"I knew you knew things," Rodney accused.

Horus took a step back toward the door.

"That's not an accusation," Elwin assured, elbowing Rodney.

"Then what is it?" Horus asked.

"An observation," Elwin corrected. "Will you tell us more?" he asked, patting the seat between them.

Horus eyed it distrustfully. "You wouldn't believe me if I did tell you."

"Try us," Elwin challenged.

Horus stayed standing, tense and ready to snap.

Elwin simply patted the seat once again and Horus swallowed and sat gingerly on the chair across from them. Elwin smiled softly but nodded to him.

"What year is it?" Horus asked.

"Year?" Rodney asked.

"860," Elwin answered.

"No it isn't," Horus answered simply. "Or it's not supposed to be. Not for me."

"What year is it supposed to be for you?" Rodney asked.

"881," Horus said simply. "By the Year of the Realm, at least. A new calendar just started recently. Year 3 of the New world."

"New world?" Elwin asked.

"After the fall of Origin and the destruction of the Mothercrystals," Horus explained.

"That's why you know the Mothercrystals cause the Blight," Elwin said simply.

"They land has regained much of its life, even in the Deadlands where we live. Lived," Horus explained.

"Who's we?" Rodney asked.

"The Hideaway. Outlaws and freed Bearers," Horus told them. "Jill."

"And Clive and Joshua?" Elwin asked.

"Dead," Horus said simply.

Elwin swallowed and sat back.

"You're all supposed to be dead," Horus explained. "No one was supposed to stop the Night of Flames at Phoenix Gate when Joshua primed as the Phoenix at the sight of your decapitation and Clive primed with him as Ifrit, the second Eikon of Fire."

"A second Eikon?" Rodney asked. "Impossible."

"So everyone thought," Horus said. "But I've seen Ifrit myself. And Clive's guilt over killing Joshua that night will never leave me."

"He what?" Elwin asked.

"They never have control that first time. Ifrit attacked Joshua. Everyone thought he died but… the Phoenix rises from the ashes," Horus explained. "I'm saying this all wrong." He confessed and scrubbed his face. He sighed. "The Night of Flames, nearly everyone perished in the scuffle between the two Eikons. Except Wade and some other Shields. Clive was branded and sent to the front lines of the Sanbrequois forces by Anabella."

"She branded him?" Elwin hissed.

"He was selected for the Bastards. Assassins," Horus continued after a nod. "Until he was sent to kill Shiva, Jill."

Elwin rubbed his face. "Jill is Shiva?"

Horus nodded. "She was kidnapped by the Iron Kingdom in an attack against the capitol after news of your death reached them. This whole thing is a long story but Clive… he was the most astonishing man I ever knew next to Cid. There was no one better to lead us after the fall of Drake's Head. I tried to be as good a leader as he was. As Cid was. But there is no equal in all this land. Seeing you two, I can see where he learned most of it."

"So Joshua is the Phoenix, Jill is Shiva, and Clive is this Ifrit?" Elwin asked.

"Yes," Horus said. "And they have a great and dangerous fate to save this world. But I know they can do it. I just hope to better prepare them this time so they don't fall in the attempt like they and Dion did at Origin."

"And who are you? Now, I mean," Elwin asked. "If you came back, you were someone here."

"Gav," Horus said simply. "Mayra didn't make it last time. Gav didn't know how to get her out. Nor would he have made it with a baby. He's too young. Too alone."

"How did this happen?" Rodney asked.

"Fallen tech," Horus answered. "When Clive primed as Ifrit and accepted who he was after the Nysa Defile, certain things… woke up, you could say. Everything should have been long dormant but the ship was lit up and Torgal and I…"

"I knew it was Torgal," Elwin crowed.

"Torgal and I spun out and the floor dropped out from under us and I woke up to my child self asking if I was dead," Horus went on as if he wasn't interrupted.

"This all sounds so fantastical," Rodney said.

"Too fantastical to make up," Horus assured.

"Yeah," Rodney agreed as he fished a gil pouch out and handed it over to Elwin's waiting hand.

"Wait, what?" Horus asked watching the gil change hands.

"You knew too much," Elwin said. "And Torgal and Hati are too close a match."

"Eh?" Horus said.

"He was insistent. I still think it's too fantastical but it oddly makes the most sense," Rodney admitted.

Horus collapsed into the chair.

"Now about Mayra," Elwin said.

Horus looked up at him, tense.

"I think we should be honest about her," Elwin said simply.

"Are you mad?" Horus demanded.

"We wanted to free them," Elwin pointed out. "That will take time. But making an example of the royal family and their friends by having a Bearer outed and free will send a message. Especially once I order all Bearers brought to the castle so they can be freed and we can find work for them."

"And you think people will be okay with that?" Horus asked.

"Not at all," Elwin said. "But the Phoenix will support us."

"Joshua?" Horus asked.

"He's fond of her. He's not about to let us go enslaving her," Elwin pointed out.

"I…" Horus hesitated.

"Do you trust me?" Elwin asked, leaning forward to put his hand on Horus' knee.

Horus studied him for a moment.

"Gav," Elwin said again. "Do you trust me?"

Horus swallowed an nodded. "Aye. Aye, I trust you."

"I will not let anything happen to Mayra. Or to Gav. Or to you," Elwin insisted, not letting Horus look away. "Come here," he said and patted the sofa between he and Rodney again.

Horus stood up jerkily and moved closer to be pulled down by Rodney to sit where he was bid.

"It's going to take planning. And cunning. And Hanna," Elwin joked. "But we are going to make sure this happens and you three are kept safe. And maybe see if we can't help those three learn how to prime safely."

Horus huffed and let his head fall back against the backrest.

"You are mad," Horus accused gently.

Rodney handed him the cup of Firethorn again and topped it up. "Aye, he is. It's worked out so far."

"Yeah, they tended to work out for Cid too," Horus said softly. "Greagor's own luck." He couldn't hold back the sob at that. Nor the one after. Or the one after that. Rodney buried his hand in Horus's hair to massage lightly as Elwin rubbed his back.

"That's it," Rodney soothed. "It's been too much lately. You're alright."

Horus couldn't even find it in himself to be angry at the patronizing tone, only soothed. He wasn't entirely sure how long he wept on the two men but eventually he drifted off against Rodney's chest with Elwin's arm around him.

Chapter Text

Horus was sure he was missing something when he woke up in the morning. The headache and burning eye that spoke of just another restless night of crying was the biggest clue. The fact he was on a sofa instead of in his bed was the next one.

"You awake?" Elwin's voiced asked teasingly.

Horus groaned and flopped onto his back, covering his eyes with his forearm. "Depends on what time it is," Horus admitted.

"Just before breakfast," Rodney answered from nearby. "We were about to head down."

Horus squinted open his good eye and saw Rodney standing above his head, bent slightly to look down at him.

Horus sighed and sat up slowly, letting Rodney step back slightly to avoid a collision of their heads.

"How are you feeling?" Rodney asked.

"Like I spent all night crying about things I can't change," Horus admitted.

"Accurate enough," Elwin conceded. "And more generally?"

"That you two are weirdly alright with things anyone else would be angry or confused about," Horus added.

"Sometimes you just have to roll with things," Rodney said.

"Yeah," Horus agreed. "How's Mayra?" He asked, jumping to his feet as if he had forgotten something important. Which he sort of had.

"She's fine," Elwin assured. "We had Hanna watch her last night after you fell asleep. We'll address her status with Marissa after breakfast and sentencing."

"Do you think she'll stay?" Horus asked.

"You mean do I think she'll have a problem with her?" Elwin clarified. "Hard to say for certain but her husband has always been mindful and respectful around the castle Bearers. From what I've seen."

"Alright," Horus agreed. "But she's still going to be staying with me."

"We'd expect nothing less," Rodney assured.

"Good," Horus nodded.

"Best get your finery on, Horus," Elwin said. "You'll be up front near the royal family."

Horus grimaced.

Both Elwin and Rodney laughed.

"Best get used to it," Rodney teased. "Elwin doesn't let people go once he decides to keep them."

Elwin shrugged as Horus shot him a questioning look. "I'm the Archduke. I make my own choices."

Horus frowned. That wasn't… He shook his head and stood up. "I'll get changed then and meet you for breakfast."

Elwin nodded and Horus left the room, flushing slightly as Hanna saw him leaving the room. She didn't say anything, merely handing Mayra over to him with a smirk.

"Thank you, Lady Hanna," Horus said softly.

"Mmhm," She hummed and turned to walk away, humming something under her breath.

Horus watched her for a second before he cuddled Mayra and took her with him to get changed. Gav was sitting on his table when Horus opened the door.

"Uncle Hours," Gav greeted.

"Gav?" Horus said. "Is everything alright?"

Gav kicked his legs slightly and shrugged.

"Gav?" Horus asked again.

"I was worried about Mayra," Gav admitted.

Horus sat on the chair next to him. "She's fine and safe," Horus said, letting Gav peer at her in the blankets. "I was talking with His Grace about how to keep her safe."

"You told him?" Gav asked nervously.

"I did. I trust him, Gav," Horus said, as if saying it would convince the both of them. Even he felt unsure with such a large and dangerous secret. But they had so far not harmed any of them and they had let Horus sleep in their room and believed, or at least not thrown him in the nuthouse, for his claim of being from the future.

"I want to trust him," Gav admitted.

"Sometimes to trust someone, you have to give them the opportunity to hurt you," Horus told him. "We don't have to like it. But how else will he prove himself to us?"

Gav chewed on his lip as he thought.

"Here," Horus said. "Hold Mayra while I get changed. We're to be making our first courtly appearance. Did someone help you pick out your clothes?"

"Lady Hanna came by and made sure all of us were dressed right," Gav admitted, holding Mayra while Horus picked out a deep red surcoat with the Rosarian emblem stitched in a pattern around the bottom hem. There were fine leather trousers to go with it and a chainmail shirt. He didn't look entirely different from Rodney but that the surcoat was a finer fabric than the heavy linen of field tested armor.

Gav was wearing a high-necked tunic in red with silver stitching that reminded Horus of Joshua's outfit from their first day together. It may even have been Joshua's at some point. Gav could very well be wearing Joshua's hand-me-downs.

Once Horus was dressed, he retook Mayra and let Gav lead him down to the dining hall where they had been eating with the rest of the royal family.

"And are these the ones you have been gushing about?" Byron's voice echoed as Horus and Gav entered the dining hall. He was sitting near Joshua and Jill and Clive, leaving two spots near Elwin open. Horus' usual spot next to Elwin and across from Rodney.

"And you are?" Horus asked, even knowing the answer. He caught Rodney and Elwin smirking into their goblets and shot them a knowing sort of smile.

"Lord Byron Rosfield," Byron said standing to shake his hand vigorously. Horus had to hold tightly to Mayra to not jostle her. "That one's brother."

"Ah the worse one," Horus said knowingly.

"Did he tell you that?" Byron asked, laughing.

"No," Horus answered and gave Clive a smirk in response to his pleading look. "Your nephew did."

"They did?" Byron exclaimed. "Which of the rascals said that?" he asked, putting his hands on his hips and facing the sheepish royal brothers down.

"Can't quite recall," Horus said, lying through his teeth.

"I'm sure you can't," Byron said doubtfully. Horus put on his most innocent face. It had seldom worked on Byron but he still tried.

"Leave the poor lads alone, Byron," Elwin sighed and gestured Horus to take his seat and held his hands out to hold Mayra.

Horus hesitated and kicked himself for the slightly crest-fallen look on Elwin's face before he handed her over.

Elwin held her just as tenderly as he had the day before. He tapped her nose just as gently, gave her a tickle just as softly. He was fine. He was safe. She was safe.

Horus let the knot in his stomach loosen slightly and caught Rodney watching Elwin softly and then glancing toward Horus like they were discussing some secret about the man. Horus didn't know what that could be.

Horus tried to relax as Elwin and Rodney took turns holding and tending to Mayra through breakfast until a servant entered with a bow.

"Your Grace," the servant greeted. "They are almost ready for you. The court is filling with nobles."

Elwin sighed and nodded with a muttered thanks and the servant left.

"It's time," Elwin announced. "Her crimes are to be laid bare, and then she will be shamed and made to walk the city as such before her execution. "The children will stay in here after she leaves the castle and until I permit them out of the walls again. Understood?"

"Yes, Your Grace," the table agreed. "Horus will keep them under watch."

Horus nodded his agreement.

"Let us proceed," Elwin said and the table stood to follow him. Horus took the rear with Gav. Elwin in the front, Rodney at his right hand and Byron at his left. Followed by Joshua in the middle and Clive and Jill to either side. Horus tried to hang back and slip in unnoticed but Elwin cast him a look and Horus took his place with Gav and Mayra in the back.

Horus wanted to bolt but then the doors opened and the group processed in, Elwin heading all the way up to the dais and Joshua leading the rest of them to stand to the side. This was far too much pomp. Horus felt like he was gonna be sick and not from the list of crimes or the punishment. He just had to keep breathing. Breath.

Chapter Text

Elwin took his place in front of the throne and the crowd bowed respectfully. Horus did the same, pressing Gav down with a hand on the back of his head into a deep bow. The rest of the royal family gave him a much shallower bow, heads barely dipping. When Elwin called for them to rise, the room did so with a sigh of relief. Once the room was standing, Elwin gestured to the guards and Sirs Tyler and Wade escorted Anabella into the room, arms bound behind her back and a gag in place.

She was forced to her knees with no small degree of force and Horus could see the Archduke and guards taking a righteous sort of joy in the crack her knees made on the stone floor.

"Anabella," Elwin began solemnly. "You are charged with a list of crimes that it would take hours to read through. So I will limit us to only those for which the sentence you will subject to is most earned. For the crimes of treason, attempted infanticide, poisoning of the Phoenix for ten long years, and the usurpation of the power of the Archduke through lying and manipulating those beneath you into acting against my direct wishes, the punishment is death. Such a simple judgement can not carry enough weight to sufficiently demonstrate my displeasure and the displeasure of the Phoenix. To that end, you shall be paraded through the streets, shaven, stripped of rank, of title, of name. You are hereby nameless. You have betrayed Rosaria, The Phoenix, and the Rosfield name. All they stand for, you have forsaken for your own power. The people of the city have been encouraged to show their displeasure in whatever means they wish so long as it does not result in your death. Any who attempt to free you or save you from this fate have decried their lives as forfeit."

"There is no defense you can give but as is our custom, you have the right to speak on your own behalf," Elwin continued. "What have you to say for yourself?"

Wade reached forward and removed the gag.

"You're a weak link in Rosaria. You would see common blood our equals. You would let the rabble run loose and Branded filth set free. My Joshua will save me. The Phoenix knows better than to let the noble blood in my veins spill," Anabella ranted.

Elwin studied her and then held his hand out to Joshua who approached after Clive set a steadying hand on his back and pushed him closer.

"Joshua," Elwin said intently, meeting his eyes and not letting him look around at the room or his mother. "You are the Phoenix I serve only until you are of age. I would never ask you to pass judgement on the woman who birthed you. No child should have that burden. But you asked me last night if I needed you to speak up and you told me that you would. Do you wish to change my sentencing?"

"No, Your Grace," Joshua answered steadily. "She poisoned me and tried to kill you and Clive and our Shields. She is not my mother."

Elwin smiled sadly at him as Anabella screamed in rage and tried to escape Tyler and Wade's hold. "Take her away. Do not let her darken the halls of this castle again. She will not torment our lives any longer."

Tyler and Wade nodded and dragged Anabella out of the room and to the courtyard to see her head shaven and the brand pressed into her skull. She would walk, barefoot through the city streets, spit on, cursed at, covered in rotten food and soiled filth before returning to the street in front of the castle gates to face her final execution. The hall emptied slowly and the royal family approached the dais with Elwin and Joshua. Horus stood back slightly with Gav.

"I'm proud of you, Joshua," Elwin said. "I hated asking that of you."

"It's true," Joshua said. "If she doesn't want to be Clive's mother, then she isn't mine either."

"Joshua," Clive protested.

"You two," Elwin said ruefully. "Always protecting each other. It's what I would have hoped for from my sons."

Mayra started to fuss in the quiet after that pronouncement and Horus bounced her lightly.

"Why don't you all go see if there's anything nice in the kitchens for lunch?" Elwin suggested.

"Can we have some?" Joshua asked.

"If it's ready," Elwin conceded.

"Yay," Joshua cheered and pulled Gav and Jill out of the room after him while Clive followed behind.

"I'll keep an eye on them, Your Grace," Horus promised with a smile and turned to follow them.

"Horus," Elwin said and Horus turned to face him questioningly. "Can I ever convince you to stop using 'Your Grace' with me?" he asked.

Horus frowned in confusion. "You may need to make it an order," he teased and turned back around.

"You're even less subtle now. But he's even more obtuse," Byron said before the doors closed and Horus could no longer hear them.

Horus headed toward the kitchens and fought a flush the whole way. The staff had been excused to show their displeasure to their former mistress but were back and Horus saw Gav and the royals sitting eating pie with whipping cream piled on top.

"So it was finished," Horus teased.

The head baker winked at him from behind their backs as the kids nodded.

"Do you have any plans of what you'd like to do today?" Horus asked as he took the bottle from a servant. Marissa was phenomenal but sometimes Horus didn't want to give up Mayra and so they kept goats and bottles available for when Mayra cried and Marissa was not in the vicinity or Horus was feeling clingy.

"We can show you the castle," Joshua exclaimed.

"Haven't we seen the castle?" Gav asked.

"Not all of it," Joshua answered.

"You've seen the royal halls but there's the library and the sanctuary and the Hall of Remembrance and…" Joshua listed.

"There's a lot more than just the royal halls," Jill cut in.

"Cool," Gav said and Horus was intrigued as well. He had never been in a castle. Well… he had never been welcomed in a castle. Sneaking in to gather intel or to steal something wasn't the same.

"We'd love to see more," Horus told them. "But you can finish your pie first."

So the kids led them through the castle, showing them unused rooms and forgotten rooms and the Hall of Remembrance where portraits of the previous Phoenix's hung with their weapons and a symbol of their reign. They paused in front of their grandfather.

"Father says he was a great man," Clive said. "That he always wanted the best for his family and his people. But he didn't know how to compromise between the two."

"Sometimes parents don't do the right thing for their kids," Gav said, echoing Horus from the previous night.

"Very true," Horus said. "I'm sure he loved his family in his own way."

"He's the one that set Father up with Her," Clive explained.

"He couldn't have known the lengths she would go to," Horus defended. "And while I agree that your Father should have been free to marry whomever he wished, if he had, neither of you would be here and I don't think he'd ever be willing to risk that."

"No I would not," Elwin agreed.

"We didn't expect you, Your Grace," Horus said as the group turned to him.

"Lunch is almost ready and she will not be back for the execution for another few hours," Elwin admitted. "I wanted to lunch with my favorite people."

"You don't have to bribe us, Father," Clive told him.

Elwin laughed and so did Horus. It was so nice to see a slightly sassy Clive. Especially in regards to his father. The group headed toward the dining hall where they took up their usual seats and despite what was going on in the streets of Rosalith with Anabella, they laughed and joked their way through a family meal and Horus could almost forget he wasn't supposed to be there.

The adults, minus Horus, disappeared again in the afternoon and it was a somber group that took up the tour again, ending in the playroom in the royal wing that they all sat down in and while Horus played with Mayra on the floor, Gav and Joshua played with toy soldiers and Clive watched, commenting on their strategy while Jill pretended not to be listening.

They all quieted when they heard a loud cheer from the front of the castle and paused a moment before they exchanged looks and went back to what they were doing. It was done. Horus breathed a sigh of relief. Onto the next crisis. The Iron Kingdom or Sanbreque. Two dangers. Two potential warfronts. He hoped they could convince the council, or blackmail them, into maintaining the treaty. They didn't have the resources to fight the whole world. And the kids hadn't primed yet. They didn't even know who they were. He hoped Elwin and Rodney had some ideas. He didn't think he could do this himself. He needed them.

Chapter Text

Supper was more subdued than lunch that night and the kids went to bed in a more somber mood. Horus noticed Elwin stopping by their rooms as he went to say goodnight to Gav and smiled.

"Why're you so happy?" Gav asked as he entered the room.

"I'm happy because I get to see you," Horus said and pushed him away from the toys in the corner that kept mysteriously arriving and towards the bed.

"You see me all the time," Gav protested, going as bid and grabbing Sköll to keep near his head.

"And I'm happy to see you all the time," Horus said, lifting the blankets for Gav to slip under. "It was a hard day today," he said, leaning sideways over Gav by resting his hand on the other side of the bed.

"Yeah," Gav agreed, picking at a spot on the blanket. "I think it was a good thing, though."

"Yeah. I think so, too," Horus agreed.

"Does that mean Elwin and Rodney are going to get married now?" Gav asked.

"I believe so," Horus admitted. "Once they make Rodney's divorce from Hanna more public."

"What about you?" Gav asked.

"What about me?" Horus asked, confused.

"Who are you gonna marry?" Gav asked.

"Right now no one," Horus explained.

"But Elwin and Rodney are helping raise Mayra, shouldn't you marry them?" Gav asked.

"That's not how it works," Horus said kindly. "I don't love them. And they love each other."

"Who do you love then?" Gav asked.

"The men I loved are gone," Horus admitted sadly.

"They died?" Gav asked softly.

"Yeah. Yeah they died," Horus agreed.

"'M sorry," Gav said.

"It's alright," Horus sighed.

"Did they know?" Gav asked.

"No, they didn't," Horus told him. "What's with all these questions, lad?"

"Clive was asking about you and I didn't know what to say. We're supposed to be family but I don't really know you," Gav explained.

"I'm a long story, Gav," Horus explained with a smile.

"I know," Gav agreed. "Cause you're old."

"OI," Horus exclaimed and tickled him. "What about Elwin and Rodney? They're older than me."

"They're really old," Gav joked.

"I'm telling them you said that," Horus threatened.

"No," Gav shouted. "They won't let me have dessert for breakfast."

"They won't?" Horus asked. "I won't."

Gav pouted.

"We are not making dessert for breakfast a habit," Horus told him.

Gav kept pouting as Horus kissed his hair and tucked him in.

"Uncle Horus?" Gav asked as Horus turned away and before he stood up.

"Aye, lad?" Horus asked.

"Are we gonna be staying in the castle forever?" Gav asked.

"I suppose we will have to see how things go but we are staying here for the foreseeable future," Horus admitted.

"What's that mean?" Gav asked.

"It means that for now yes. But I don't know if or when things might change," Horus explained.

"Oh. Okay. That's good. I like it here. Even if I miss Mum and Dad and Devon and Jacob and Mishka and Lorelei and Tristan and Robert," Gav admitted.

"Yeah," Horus agreed. "You will always miss them, Gav. But sometimes… sometimes it's easier. You learn to live with it. To stop expecting them. And then you mourn them all over again because losing the sense of loss feels like forgetting. But you didn't. Not really. And you try to live the best life they would have wanted for you."

"Did the men you love want the best for you too?" Gav asked.

"I think so," Gav admitted.

"Then they'd want you to be happy too, right?" Gav asked.

"I suppose so, aye," Horus agreed.

"So you'll be happy here? With all of us?" Gav asked.

"I'll be happy here. I would not leave you," Horus told him intently. "You are stuck with me and the castle is stuck with us."

Gav laughed.

"I'm not going anywhere," Horus assured. "And neither are you. Promise."

Gav nodded, reassured, and snuggled down into the bed. Horus placed another kiss on his forehead and left the room fully. He stood considering for a moment before he decided to check in on Elwin and Rodney. He knocked on their door and was told to enter. He poked his head around the door to see them on the sofa with drinks in hand.

"You two alright?" Horus asked.

"Aye," Elwin answered. "Did you need something?"

"Just to make sure you were okay. It was a rough day today, regardless of if you ever loved her or not," Horus answered.

"She was a cousin," Elwin explained. "Third cousins. We weren't especially close even as children. I've wanted her gone for many long years. I didn't think it'd be through her execution."

"Understandable," Horus said coming in further and sitting on the edge of the chair. "She also stood in the way of a lot of your happiness I expect. Not even counting her treatment of the others in the castle, including the boys."

"She did," Elwin admitted. He sighed. "It brought me no joy to pronounce her sentence. Though I worry her followers will claim so."

"So we will know them easily," Horus pointed out.

"One way to look at it," Elwin said.

"I wasn't always a grumpy teary mess, you know," Horus joked. "I used to be quite the comic at the Hideaway."

"I believe it," Rodney said. "You haven't punched him out yet for his lame jokes."

"I wouldn't do that," Horus teased. "I'd let you do it."

"Oh laugh it up, you two," Elwin grumbled, laughing and shoved Rodney to the other side of the sofa. "Come drink with us, Horus." He patted the seat newly opened between he and Rodney.

Horus rolled his eyes and joined them, Rodney pouring a goblet from the jug set next to him.

"That's one obstacle cleared," Rodney said. "How many more to go?"

"Far too many," Horus answered.

"Let's discuss that tomorrow," Elwin grumbled. "When we're more sober."

"Alright," Horus agreed. "The Iron Kingdom and Sanbreque can wait."

"A few hours at least," Rodney agreed.

"To freedom," Elwin said, raising his goblet.

"To opportunity," Rodney added, raising his own.

"To better futures," Horus said and they clinked their goblets together before they drank.

Horus spent an hour drinking with the other two men as they grumbled about Anabella from childhood to the day she died. He listened patiently and when the jug ran dry he chivied them both off to bed and headed to his own. They had a meeting in the morning. If Horus woke up that early. He was considering sleeping in for the first time in months. He deserved it. They all did.

Chapter Text

Horus did not sleep in. Mayra wanted attention and so he was up and down through the night with her. She wasn't hungry. She wasn't wet. Horus took to wandering the halls again until she quieted. And then got up to do it all over a couple hours later. Poor Mayra. He didn't know what could have her so uneasy tonight but he didn't sleep well. So he was also the first down to breakfast when Elwin and Rodney stumbled in.

"You look like shit," Horus told them.

"Thanks," Rodney grumbled. "So do you."

"I was up all night with Mayra. Did you two go back to drinking after I left?" Horus asked.

"Not quite," Elwin admitted.

"Well," Horus said, flushing at what that could mean. "I want to talk to you about what's next. Potentially."

"Go ahead," Elwin nodded.

"Last time," Horus began. "The Iron Kingdom attacked Rosalith killing the men and abducting the women. Including Jill. She primed while with them as Shiva. But we can't let that happen again."

"No," Elwin agreed. "We won't."

"We'll need to get the troops ready for war anyways. We were going to go after them," Rodney pointed out.

"Might be a good idea to start all the kids on sword training," Horus suggested.

"Think you could do it?" Elwin asked.

"Me?" Horus asked.

"Of course, you beat Rodney," Elwin pointed out.

"Lucky shot," Rodney grumbled.

"I could," Horus said hesitantly.

"You know how they fight best," Elwin urged. "How to bring out their best."

Horus nodded. "Yeah, I can do that," he agreed.

"Can do what?" Gav asked as the kids trickled in.

"You are all going to be starting sword training," Elwin announced.

"All of us?" Jill asked, tamping down her excitement.

"All of you," Elwin assured her. "I want each of you to know how to defend yourself. And as Rodney will be helping me with war planning, Horus is going to be your new teacher. You as well, Clive," Elwin added.

"I see," Clive said, looking over to Horus curiously.

"It'll be hard but I'll try to make it fun too," Horus told them.

"Thanks, Father," Joshua said excitedly. "This is going to be so much fun."

"Yeah," Gav and Jill agreed.

Horus cast an amused look over at Elwin as the kids started to discuss if there was a special weapon they wanted to try.

The kids were not laughing that afternoon after Horus put them through their paces. He had gone with them to the blacksmith and sought out the best equivalents to their future weapons that were sized for smaller hands and they were excited as they got to touch and try out the weapon types, even if Horus knew what they would settle on.

Joshua panted while sitting in the dirt next to Jill and Gav.

"Uncle Horus, can we take a break?" Gav whined.

Horus huffed amusedly. "Alright. Go get some water," he said and the kids wobbly made their way over to the water skins, their legs and arms tired and sore from new exertion.

"This is hard," Joshua said.

"It is," Clive agreed, the best out of all of them, though Horus had him running some new drills.

"That's enough for today. I want you all to rest," Horus said. "And take to carrying your swords with you. Get used to the weight on you and in the habit of always having it available."

"Yes, Sir," Joshua agreed.

"Jill?" Horus asked. "How are you feeling about it?"

"Sore, but I want to be here," she insisted.

"Of course, I want you to meet with the seamstresses, though and get some harder wearing clothes made. For practice at the very least," Horus instructed.

"Of course," Jill agreed, eyeing the tear in her skirt sadly.

"Fighting can be tough. I'm going to see what sort of armor we can get for you all as well. So expect a visit from the seamstresses and blacksmith in the next few days as well," Horus went on.

The kids all nodded at him.

"Alright. Head inside and take it easy," Horus instructed.

They all nodded and went in through the side door near the kitchen, footsteps plodding as if too tired to lift their feet.

"You're a good teacher," Tyler told him, coming up on the other side of the fence.

"I'm just doing my best," Horus said. "Like anyone."

"They've already made progress," Tyler assured.

"Yeah," Horus sighed.

"Want a sparring partner that isn't half your height?" Tyler asked.

"Sure," Horus agreed and Tyler made his way into the ring to spar.

They were well matched, if Tyler hadn't insisted on talking during the bout.

"So, how are you settling into the castle?" Tyler asked.

"Well enough, all things considered," Horus answered. "His Grace and Lord Murdoch have been very welcoming."

"I'm sure they have," Tyler smirked.

"You seem to be insinuating something," Horus commented.

"Only that they seem fond of you," Tyler assured. "I recognize that fondness. Can be quite an experience if you let it."

"And if I'm not looking for an experience?" Horus asked.

"Then tell them that," Tyler said. "Don't lead them on. They deserve better than that." He caught Horus on his blind side and tripped him up so he landed in the dirt. "Or you have us to answer to."

"Us?" Horus asked from his place in the dirt.

Tyler tilted his head slightly and Horus looked around to see the Shields watching intently.

"Noted," Horus said. "I'm not looking to hurt anyone."

Tyler reached down to help him up. "No offense. But we don't know you well enough for that."

"Well, maybe you should," Horus pointed out.

Tyler hummed and walked away. Horus watched him go before he shook his head and headed inside himself. He wanted to check in on Mayra.

Marissa had been informed and had cooed over Mayra making herself all wet. Horus felt slightly better for her reaction but was still intent on checking in on his sister, his niece, frequently.

He found her with Marissa and Henry in the nursery and joined them to play with her as the kids slowly trickled in.

"You all look exhausted my Lords," Marissa teased.

"Horus ran us through drills today," Joshua told her.

"I see," Marissa said. "And you Lady Jill?"

"Same, Miss Marissa," Jill told her.

"Are you having fun at all?" Marissa asked.

"Yeah. It'll be more fun when we're better," Jill answered.

"New skills are always hard in the beginning," Marissa assured. "You'll get used to it and get stronger."

"I hope so," Gav said. "Cause this sucks. I had to crawl up the stairs cause my legs feel like mama's undercooked cake."

Horus burst out laughing. He had almost forgotten about that instance. His mother had made a cake but had forgotten to stock the wood in the oven and so it had sat in a cold oven until she pulled it out, intent on feeding it to the family. It had jiggled around like a flan.

"That'll stop. Soon you'll be running up the stairs again after training," Horus assured.

The rest of the afternoon was spent with the kids playing and complaining about sore muscles. Horus just listened in amusement while he played with Mayra and headed to supper with them and then ushered them to an early bed. Maybe tonight, Mayra would sleep through.

Chapter Text

She did not sleep through the night. She did not sleep through the night for several weeks. Horus was a common sight wandering the halls and had run into Rodney and Elwin several times from the balcony as they canoodled in the throne room. Every time, one of them would look up and see him, only for him to flush and dart away.

The days passed in a haze of training the children, caring for Mayra, and preparing for Elwin and Rodney's wedding. It was all the talk of the castle and Shields, even the surrounding parts of the city when Horus ventured out with Mayra for some fresh air was a buzz with talk of Elwin and Rodney's love affair and Lady Hanna's blessings upon them.

It was bittersweet in a way. It's what he imagined Clive and Cid's wedding would had been like, had Cid lived through Drake's Head. The excitement. The nice clothes. The flowers. The food.

"Uncle Horus?" Gav asked as he was tucking him in one night a few weeks before the wedding.

"Yes?" Horus asked, giving him his undivided attention.

"Who marries the Archduke?" Gav asked.

"Like… he would of-ov-ovishiate Clive or Joshua's wedding, right?" Gav asked. "So, who would ovishiate Elwin's?"

"Well, I suppose Byron could do it, as his brother," Horus admitted.

"Could Joshua do it? As the Phoenix?" Gav asked.

Horus hummed. "Maybe. I'm not sure. Do you think Joshua wants to?"

"He wanted to be involved in it. Clive and Jill do too," Gav admitted.

"And you?" Horus asked.

Gav shrugged, avoiding Horus' eyes. "They aren't my dads."

"You know," Horus admitted. "I knew a couple who got married once, and they had their friends kids in the wedding. Tossing flowers," he chuckled at Gav's grimace. "Or carrying the rings."

"But none of the others have parts," Gav said.

"Yet," Horus said. "Do you really think either Elwin or Rodney are the type to refuse any of you kids if you asked to be involved in some way?"

Gav shrugged.

"Do you want me to mention it?" Horus asked.

"Would you?" Gav asked, shyly.

"I can ask if they had plans for you kids, yeah," Horus said.

"Thank you, Uncle Horus," Gav said.

"You're welcome, Gav," Horus said and kissed his forehead before tucking him in and went to leave.

He caught Elwin coming out of Clive's room at the same time and as had become habit, joined him for a moment in the hallway.

"Everything well?" Elwin asked.

"Aye," Horus answered. "Some concerns from the kids but nothing serious."

"What kind of concerns?" Elwin asked.

Horus tilted his head toward Elwin's rooms and followed when Elwin nodded and started toward the door.

"General excitement for the wedding," Horus answered as they entered the sitting room.

Rodney greeted them with three goblets of wine as Horus followed them to the sofa and the fireplace.

"I'm glad they are taking it so well," Elwin said. "I was concerned, needlessly as Rodney pointed out. But I was more concerned for their reaction than the duchy's."

"They're happy for you," Horus answered. "Though maybe feeling a tad left out."

"Left out?" Rodney asked.

"Gav was asking who was going to officiate and asked if Joshua would be able to do it, as the Phoenix. I think they want to be involved in some way," Horus said. "All this excitement but they don't have anything to really do for it."

"I understand," Elwin said. "I had been debating asking Clive and Joshua to act as an honor guard and Jill to aid in the flowers. Gav could carry the rings. Having Joshua officiate though, I hadn't considered it."

"It could have quite the profound statement," Rodney said. "The young Phoenix supporting it so obviously."

"Who were you going to have officiate?" Horus asked.

"Byron," Elwin said. "It would have been Hanna but… she doesn't have the same political power."

"Would Byron be able to run through and teach Joshua what all he needs to do and say for it?" Horus asked.

"I'm sure he'd love to," Elwin said wryly. "He's been less than thrilled with the job. Happy for the marriage but not having a political part to play so publicly."

"I don't blame him," Horus agreed.

"So we can't get you to stand for us?" Rodney asked.

"What?" Horus asked, confused.

"We were going to ask you to stand for us, or for me really. If Joshua officiates, Byron will stand for Elwin. If not, he or Clive could stand for him," Rodney answered.

"You don't want me in your wedding," Horus protested. "That should be for the people you are closest to. We've only know each other for a month."

"And yet you've been a steady daily presence in that month. You've been supportive. You've saved our lives. And you've helped put the good of the duchy in the forefront of your thoughts. Who else would I have stand for me?" Rodney asked.

"Hanna," Horus pointed out. "Tyler. Any number of Shields you have fought and trained with in the last decades. I'm honored but it doesn't feel right to take that privilege from the people you've known so much longer."

"Is that your final answer?" Rodney asked.

"I'm afraid so," Horus said. "Put one of them in that place. I will support you in other ways."

"Part of the honor guard then," Elwin insisted. "The ones that line the aisle."

"I will agree to that," Horus said.

"Alright," Elwin agreed. "We have a deal. We will ask Joshua to officiate in the morning and the others can be a part of the procession. Will Gav be willing to be in it?"

"I think he'd be very ecstatic to be included," Horus said. "He was a little upset by the thought that he isn't family and wouldn't be allowed."

"You live in the royal wing. You're family at this point," Elwin said, brushing Gav's worry aside as unsubstantial.

"I have a feeling that's not really how it works but I won't argue with you at this time of night," Horus said.

"Tired?" Elwin asked.

"I am very sure you are very aware that Mayra isn't sleeping the full night yet. I know you have seen my walking the halls to calm her," Horus pointed out.

"I didn't realize it persisted through the night," Rodney said.

"Several times in the night," Horus admitted.

"You do know that Marissa is able to help with that as Mayra's nurse," Elwin said. "Or if you need a break we or Hanna could lend a hand as well."

"I'm worried about letting her out of my sight too long," Horus confessed. "I have an irrational fear she'll disappear if I let someone else take her for a night."

"You don't trust us?" Elwin asked.

"Of course I do but I can't ask you to do that," Horus said.

"You aren't," Rodney told him. "We're offering."

"Still," Horus tried.

"No," Elwin said sternly. "Let us or Marissa help you. If not tonight, then soon. You're running yourself ragged not sleeping and still training the kids as much as you do and working with the Shields to familiarize yourself with the city and her defenses."

"We need to be prepared," Horus pointed out.

"Part of being prepared is you being rested," Rodney insisted.

"I'll consider it," Horus conceded. "Not tonight though."

"Soon, Horus," Elwin insisted.

"Alright," Horus surrendered. "Soon."

"Good," Elwin nodded. "Get some rest while you can."

Horus nodded and set his empty wine goblet on the table as he got up to leave. Mayra was in her crib, fussing but not crying yet. He picked her up to soothe her and she was soon resting on his shoulder. How was he supposed to trust anyone else with her? She was his responsibility. He had promised.

Chapter Text

Horus was wandering the halls with Mayra when he ran into Elwin and Rodney in their usual place in the throne room. He wasn't sure why they went to bed and then moved to the throne room every night but he suspected it had something to do with being kinky fuckers. A suspicion proved slightly more plausible when he caught sight of Rodney on his knees before the throne with his face in Elwin's lap.

Elwin had his head thrown back and was staring up at the balcony, watching and Horus was struck by the intensity of his gaze. There was pleasure and lust but also a sort of needy heat that Horus could barely look away from. He caught Elwin's mouth falling open and his hands clenched on the arm rest as he stared Horus down.

Horus swallowed, imagining what was bringing that look to Elwin's face, enthralled as he watched the Archduke struggle to stay still and quiet, eyes locked with Horus hiding in the shadows.

Then Mayra let out a small cry and Horus jumped as if shocked by levin. He looked down at her and scurried away, face red in the darkness of the halls.

That night seemed to change something. Every time he passed the throne room, Elwin and Rodney were in the midst of something Horus couldn't help but feel he shouldn't be privy to. He refused to change his nightly course however. He could say it would feel like admitting defeat. He could claim it was simply habit by this point. But in the shadows of the night when he was most honest with himself, he wanted to see what they were doing. He wanted to see Elwin caught in pleasure and the lust on Rodney's face as he stared up at Horus. It was almost like being special. And he felt immense guilt over it.

He loved Clive, his Clive, and Cid, his Cid. But as he constantly reminded himself, they didn't exist. And they hadn't known. And Gav had a point. They'd want him to be happy. But was indulging with Elwin and Rodney what would make him happy? He didn't know. And not knowing what he wanted was driving him round the bend. So he spent weeks catching sight of them and ignoring during the daylight hours what he had seen, what he wanted or almost wanted.

It wasn't sustainable is the crux of it. To hide his lust in the deep shadows of the halls while ignoring the more and more blatant camaraderie with which Elwin and Rodney interacted with him.

The first night Mayra spent with Marissa Horus found himself still restless and slipped out into the halls at the usual time. Without Mayra in his arms, he slid into the shadows to watch as Elwin and Rodney got set up on the throne, Rodney sitting there in an almost blasphemous move while Elwin slipped his trousers down and sat on his lap, chest to chest. and moved to ride him.

Horus bit his lip as he watched them. Rodney's wide hands on Elwin's waist and moving him up and down over Rodney's cock. He listened intently to the soft mewls from Elwin as he rocked and then froze as Rodney met his gaze and gestured for him to come closer.

Horus stepped out of the shadows and up to the railing and then started for the stairs when Rodney beckoned him even closer. He moved slowly along the railing and then down the back stairs to come out near the throne. Elwin glanced over, eyes blown in lust as Horus stepped around the corner.

"Took you long enough," Rodney teased.

"What?" Horus asked.

"Been waiting for you to join us," Rodney told him.

"I-" Horus choked on his words.

"Horus," Elwin moaned.

"Think you can help me?" Rodney asked.

"Help you?" Horus asked, confused.

"He's a bit of a slut," Rodney said fondly. "Needs another cock to split him open."

"We shouldn't," Horus protested without any conviction.

"Why not?" Rodney asked.

"You're getting married," Horus explained.

"Fuck," Elwin groaned as he ground down on Rodney's cock. "Horus, we aren't asking you to love us. Just…"

"Fuck you?" Horus offered.

"No harm in some stress relief between friends," Rodney pointed out.

"Why would you…?" Horus almost asked.

"Want you?" Rodney finished.

"Why not?" Elwin asked.

Horus sputtered but didn't have an answer.

"Exactly," Elwin said. "Now, are you going to help Rodney fuck me or not?"

Horus hesitated but then took a step closer. Why should he deny himself? They were asking and it had been a while…

"That's it, Horus," Rodney said. "Let us see what you've got hidden in those trousers."

Horus palmed himself through his soft sleep pants and reached in to stroked himself once and pulled his cock out over the waistband of his pants.

Rodney licked his lips as he watched the younger man.

"You're going to love this, Elwin," Rodney teased.

"Is he big?" Elwin asked, twisting to try to see.

Rodney reached over and twisted Elwin's face back to face him. He kissed him quiet first and then smirked. "Nuh uh, you're going to be surprised. Horus, you're going to be good and help me spread him, right?"

Horus swallowed and nodded, reaching forward hesitantly to lay his hand on Elwin's back and lift his shirt tail to see where Rodney was spearing him on his cock. He pressed on Elwin's back, urging him to lean forward until he was pressed to Rodney and held in his arms. He reached forward to run his finger around Elwin's slick hole and felt him shudder against him.

"You loose enough for me, Your Grace?" Horus asked, shocked at his own actions.

"Yeah," Elwin answered. "I want to feel it."

"Feel me during your fitting tomorrow?" Horus asked.

"I'll feel you during the wedding if you don't hurry up," Elwin urged.

A loud smack rang out as Rodney slapped Elwin's ass and drew a soft moan from the other man.

"Be nice," Rodney admonished.

"Sorry," Elwin apologized.

Horus leaned forward and kissed the back of his neck as he pressed in, splitting Elwin open on his and Rodney's cocks.

Elwin let out a soft cry as he felt the width of Horus pressing as deep as he could. "Fuck," he sighed as his ass rested against Horus' pelvis.

"How's that feel?" Rodney asked.

"Perfect," Elwin sighed. "Fuck missed this."

"Missed it?" Horus asked, clinging to his control as he slowly started to thrust, lifting Elwin slightly and letting him drop onto his and Rodney's cocks.

"Tyler used to join us every so often before he and Wade become more exclusive," Rodney explained.

"Oh?" Horus commented, focused on hitting a rhythm.

"Yeah," Rodney answered as Elwin tried to help Horus. "You should tell them," he went on.

"Huh?" Horus asked, looking up from where he was watching both of them spreading Elwin wide and up at Rodney.

"About you," Rodney explained. "What happened to you. In case Elwin or I aren't around and something happens."

"Is this the time to be discussing this?" Horus asked.

"Rodney likes mixing business and pleasure because he knows it drives me crazy when he ignores me," Elwin commented, moaning as he tried to speed up.

Rodney winked at Horus while Elwin's eyes were closed in concentration.

"No wonder Tyler and the Shields threatened me if I kept leading you on," Horus said.

"It was frustrating," Rodney said. "I thought Elwin was oblivious sometimes but you kept running off and then ignoring our little shows."

"Did you plan this?" Horus asked.

"Maybe a little," Rodney admitted.

"Or a lot," Elwin admitted. "Will you please fuck me?"

Rodney and Horus exchanged smirks and Horus hushed Rodney before he pulled back and slammed back home.

Elwin let out a high cry at the rough treatment.

"Like that?" Horus asked, pausing to look around at Elwin's pleasure-stricken face.

"Yes," Elwin groaned.

Horus nodded and got to work. He wasn't going to last long. Not with how long it had been and the heavenly tightness around him and the heat of Rodney pressed so hard against him. But he was determined to take at least one of these men down with him. So he pressed down on Elwin's neck as Rodney slid into a slouch to better the angle for Horus.

Elwin panted against Rodney's collarbone, teeth digging in to muffle his whines. Horus was enthralled with watching himself and Rodney in Elwin's hole, stretching it wide and watching the oil pool on the throne after trailing down Rodney's balls.

"You are so beautiful," Rodney praised.

Horus looked up to see Rodney looking straight at him and faltered for a moment as he flushed and regained his rhythm.

"You are," Rodney went on. "Beautiful and kind and funny. Someday I want to taste you."

Horus cast a shy look up at him and was pulled close as Rodney tugged him into a kiss, pinning Elwin between them.

"You'll be sweet for me and let me taste you, right?" Rodney asked.

Horus nodded shyly.

"Good," Rodney praised. "Let's make him cum and take you back to our room and take you apart."

Horus shivered as he felt Elwin squeeze around them. He caught sight of Rodney's hand disappearing between his and Elwin's bodies and then Elwin was gasping and moaning before his body tightened impossibly around them and his hips jerked.

Horus groaned at the sensation around his trapped cock until Elwin loosened again and Rodney pulled him up and off their cocks.

"Huh?" Horus asked.

"I told you," Rodney said. "We're taking you back to bed."

Horus swallowed as Rodney fixed his and Elwin's clothes and tucked Horus back in his pants and pulled him with them out of the throne room and back upstairs and towards the Archduke's rooms. Horus followed in a daze but the closer they got the more his doubts and lust grew until he was dying to sink back into something or be fucked until morning. He might only get tonight but by the Founder was he going to make it count.

Chapter Text

Horus hesitated on the threshold of the Archduke's rooms and Rodney looked back at him in question. He must have seen something on Horus' face, perhaps the hint of panic he could feel almost making it's way to the surface of his almost numb decision-making.

"Alright?" Rodney asked as he turned toward Horus and stepped up to him.

Horus nodded. "Aye, I'm alright."

Rodney cupped his cheeks and kissed him until Horus melted into him, only jumping slightly when Elwin pressed against his back to pepper his neck in soft kisses until he relaxed again.

"We don't have to," Elwin murmured. "You can go back to your room and we can forget tonight happened."

"I don't want to forget," Horus admitted.

"Do you want to come to bed with us?" Rodney asked.

"Yes," Horus answered softly.

"Come on," Rodney said and tugged Horus unresistingly through the sitting room to the bedroom and urged him to sit.

Once Horus sat, Rodney knelt to remove his boots and trousers as Elwin climbed up next to him to distract him with kisses. Elwin's hand slipped under Horus' thin sleep shirt to run soothingly over his chest and abs. Horus wanted to sink into the sensations of Elwin and Rodney touching him. To forget for a time all the stresses of knowing. But every time his mind was about to turn off, something brought him back.

"You're thinking too much," Elwin accused gently against Horus' lips.

"Sorry," Horus muttered.

"I know how we can fix that," Rodney answered. "You up for it?"

"Yeah," Horus agreed. "I want this."

Rodney nodded his head.

"Then just try to relax for us. Here," Elwin said and helped Horus strip his shirt as Rodney pulled his trousers down and tossed them aside. Two sets of hands ran over his chest and legs soothingly.

Elwin moved to sit behind Horus, hands coming up to rub his shoulders gently at first before moving into a deep massage of his shoulders and back.

Rodney knelt before him and kissed his way from his ankle to his knee and up to his only slightly softened cock and took him into his mouth.

Horus groaned as Rodney's mouth closed around him and Elwin dug into a knot in his shoulder at the same time. He threaded his fingers through Rodney's hair and let his head droop forward for Elwin to access his neck.

"So stressed," Elwin commented. "We can fix that."

"Please do," Horus said, sighing as Rodney toyed with the head of his cock.

"You just let us work," Elwin told him.

Horus just hummed in response. He basked in the feeling of Elwin's hands digging into tense muscles and the soft feel of Rodney's mouth moving over his cock.

Eventually Elwin stopped massaging his shoulders and moved to drape himself over Horus' back, arms coming over his now loose shoulders to cross over his chest.

"He's so good at that, isn't he?" Elwin asked, watching Rodney fondly.

Rodney glanced up through his lashes and pulled off, moving to stroke Horus with a calloused hand instead. "Not as good as you," he teased, wiping his mouth with the back of his free hand. "Tyler said so."

"Tyler was being generous," Elwin countered.

"Well maybe we should ask Horus," Rodney said.

"Would you like that?" Elwin asked. "To judge which of us is the better cocksucker?"

"Wouldn't want to cause a fight," Horus teased

"But the make up sex is fantastic," Elwin whispered in his ear and climbed to the ground next to Rodney.

Rodney rolled his eyes but let Elwin take over stroking Horus and moved to sit up with the younger man on the bed. He turned Horus towards him to kiss him, distracting him from the sight of the Archduke on his knees and the moment Elwin took him into his mouth.

Horus moaned into Rodney's kiss, fingers digging into Elwin's hair as he worked.

"He's good, isn't he?" Rodney asked.

"Aye," Horus agreed, hips fighting to not roll up into the sucking wet heat of Elwin's mouth.

"You can fuck his mouth," Rodney allowed. "He enjoys it."

"Does he?" Horus asked, glancing down to see Elwin meet his gaze and deliberately take him to the root until he choked and then went just that bit further. Horus groaned as Elwin pulled back slightly. He didn't let him get far before he used the hold he had on Elwin's hair to hold him in place to thrust up into his mouth.

Elwin moaned as Horus pushed himself deeper into his mouth, sounding wrecked as he did so.

"That's it," Rodney urged. "Our Archduke enjoys serving his people, don't you?"

Elwin moaned and nodded as much as possible without dislodging Horus' hand in his hair or his cock in his mouth.

"Can I fuck you?" Rodney asked Horus, kissing his shoulder while the younger man was distracted with Elwin's mouth.

Horus looked over at him as the Lord Commander watched him placidly and without judgement. "Yeah," Horus agreed as his hips stalled. Elwin whined as Horus stopped.

"Hush, El," Rodney soothed. "I have a plan."

"You always have a plan," Elwin agreed. "I was just having fun."

"You'll like this plan," Rodney said. "Come up here." He reached down to help Elwin onto the bed and guided him to lay on his back, head facing the foot of the bed so Horus could straddle his head as he knelt over him. "Let Elwin help you relax as I get you all loose," Rodney said, urging Horus to his elbows. "While you're down there, feel free to show the Archduke your appreciation." He winked.

Horus huffed but took Elwin's semi-hard cock into his mouth and moaned as the favor was returned. He focused on giving Elwin his all when he felt Rodney's slick fingers at his ass. He slowed to enjoy the feel of Rodney's thick fingers spreading him wide on first one and then two fingers.

"How many do you want before I fuck you?" Rodney asked idly as he toyed with Horus' hole.

Horus held up two fingers eagerly and moaned as Rodney pressed on his prostate, his hand flew back to grasp hold of Rodney's hand gripping his hip as he felt Elwin's tongue toying with the head of his cock.

"You sure?" Rodney asked.

Horus nodded eagerly.

"Alright," Rodney agreed and slipped his fingers free to slick his cock and position it at Horus' wet hole. "Tell me if you need to stop."

Horus nodded his head and tried to sink back on the cockhead just barely pressing against his rim.

"Patience, lad," Rodney admonished and Horus shivered at the nickname. Rodney didn't comment but squeezed his hip as he slowly sunk into him. Horus moaned as he was split on Rodney's cock, his body opening eagerly for the heated flesh.

Elwin popped off of Horus' cock as Horus ceased his own movements, distracted by Rodney and merely holding the Archduke in his mouth. Elwin pulled Horus' head off his cock and turned to be face to face with him to kiss him through the stretch. Rodney was not a small man and Horus could feel the stinging burn of the stretch as he was breached.

"Still alright?" Rodney asked as his hips met Horus' ass.

"Yes," Horus said. "Move," he demanded.

"Bossy," Rodney teased but he pulled back to press in again. His movements were calm and assured. He didn't pound into Horus but nor did he drag out the start of his rhythm, simply falling into one through what was doubtlessly long years of practice.

"You like them bossy," Elwin teased.

"I do," Rodney agreed and winked at him over Horus' shoulder and causing Elwin to laugh.

"You know what else he likes?" Elwin asked Horus. "When you tell him how you want him to fuck you." He confided.

"Harder," Horus said, answering the implied question. "Harder, please."

Rodney obeyed, speeding up until his hips were slapping against Horus' body and drawing moans and cries from him that were muffled by Elwin's lips. Rodney grasped one of Horus' shoulders to pull him back onto his cock as he fucked him forcefully.

Horus moaned, trying to help spear himself on Rodney's length by pressing back against him. "More," he begged as Elwin pulled back to catch their breath, one hand cupping Horus' jaw until the younger man urged it around his throat. "Please," he begged, meeting Elwin's questioning gaze.

Elwin cast a glance behind at Rodney and then kissed Horus before beginning to squeeze lightly going slowly harder before letting up. He started a slow rhythm of gripping around Horus' throat as Rodney shifted to fuck into him harder, animalistically as Horus groaned. Rodney reached around Horus' body to wrap one calloused hand around his cock and stroked him.

Horus nearly screamed through Elwin's grip around his throat as he came in Rodney's hand.

Elwin kissed him as he took his hand away from Horus' neck and Rodney gentled his thrusts, though not lowering his speed, until he came as well.

Horus gasped as Elwin pulled back while Horus' body slowed it's rapid heartbeat. He couldn't fight back a sob as the rush of euphoria faded and tried his hardest to maintain control and not go weeping on the two older men. He didn't quite succeed.

"Shh," Elwin soothed, holding Horus close while Rodney pulled out and grabbed a wet rag to wipe them both down with. "Hush. It's alright."

Horus just continued to fight the sobs pushing themselves out of his chest.

Rodney wrapped around him from behind as the two older men tried their best to help him calm until they finally died out in his exhaustion.

They laid together for a long while before anyone spoke.

"Do you regret it?" Elwin asked.

"I don't know," Horus admitted.

"Because you love them," Rodney said simply.

"The men I loved are dead," Horus admitted. "They're never coming back. And they'll never be the same. And they never knew."

"They'd still want you to be happy," Elwin said. "Even if they didn't know you loved them."

"Yeah," Horus said simply. "I don't know what'll do that."

"Keep us in mind?" Rodney asked.

"Yeah," Horus agreed and disentangled from the other two men and went to grab his clothes to leave.

"You don't have to," Elwin pointed out. "Go. That is."

"I think I do," Horus admitted and slipped out without meeting their gazes once. He slipped silently down the hall, checking on a sleeping Gav for a long moment before reluctantly heading to his own room. He couldn't afford to run again. He climbed into his bed and tried to ignore the cold emptiness in the luxurious and too big bed. Echoed by the cold pit in his chest devouring his chest and stomach. Sleep didn't come easy.

Chapter Text

Horus very seriously considered not leaving bed the next morning and avoiding the world for a day. He probably would have too if Gav hadn't entered his room excitedly after breakfast to show him the outfit the tailor had made for him. He was going to be taking Rodney's ring up to the altar in the procession and the small surcoat that they had made for him made him look like a little Lord. Horus sat up and forced a smile to his face.

"Very handsome," he praised. "Did you say thank you?"

"Yes, sir," Gav answered, climbing into the bed with Horus. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," Horus answered. "Why do you ask?"

"You look sad," Gav told him.

"Maybe a little," Horus admitted.

Gav chewed on his lip. "Uncle Elwin and Uncle Rodney looked sad too when you weren't at breakfast. Uncle Elwin took care of Mayra. He said he'd keep her occupied today and to let you rest. Are you sure you're alright?"

Horus blinked at the casual terms and then smiled softly. "I'm sure, Gav. When did you start calling them Uncle too?" He asked gently.

"They said we were practically family now if I was gonna carry Uncle Rodney's ring," Gav said and sat next to Horus against the headboard. "You don't mind, do you?" He asked shyly. "You still won't leave, right?"

Horus fought back a sigh. "No, I'm not going to leave. And I don't mind. I promised you, Gav, I'm not going anywhere without you two." Even if he had considered it, however briefly, the night before.

"But you're not happy here," Gav said softly, rubbing the blanket between his fingers.

"What makes you say that?" Horus asked.

"You frown a lot when you think no one is watching," Gav explained. "And you're always really tense. Especially around Uncle Elwin and Uncle Rodney."

"That doesn't mean I'm not happy here," Horus explained. "There are a lot of things happening and I'm trying really hard to keep not just you and Mayra but everyone in the castle and Rosaria safe. None of that means I am unhappy here."

"And Uncle Elwin and Uncle Rodney?" Gav asked.

"That's more complicated. But I don't hate them and I don't want to get away from them. It's just…" Horus trailed off.

"Adult stuff?" Gav asked.

"Yeah. Adult stuff," Horus agreed.

"Are you still going to be in their wedding?" Gav asked.

"Aye," Horus agreed. "If they still want me to be."

"Did you have a fight?" Gav asked.

"No. Not quite," Horus admitted. "But I think I hurt them."

"Can you just say sorry?" Gav asked.

"I can. But there are some things words don't really fix. And I think I made them sad more than anything," Horus admitted. "They've been very kind to us and you know how you wanted to be there for Joshua and Clive with their mother?"

Gav nodded.

"Well, when they wanted to be alone instead of letting you help them, it made you sad, right?"

"Yeah," Gav admitted, confused.

"I think I made them sad, because I don't know how to let them help me with something," Horus admitted.

"So they're sad? Not angry?" Gav asked.

"I think so," Horus said softly.

"And making them sad makes you sad?" Gav asked.

"Aye. Aye, it does," Horus admitted.

"And what would make you all happy?" Gav asked.

"I don't know," Horus told him.

"Maybe you should all spend time together," Gav suggested. "That's what made Joshua and Clive feel better and it's what I wanted to do to make them feel better."

"Yeah?" Horus asked. "But then how would I spend time with you?"

"I don't mind sharing you with Uncle Elwin and Uncle Rodney," Gav assured. "Not if it makes you all happy. And Lady Hanna can help us watch Mayra for you."

"Oh will you?" Horus asked, amused.

"Uh huh," Gav promised and clambered out of the bed, then back up to hug Horus. "I'll tell Uncle Elwin you want to help them with the wedding planning. He said they were going to meet with the Shields to decide on their honor guard."

"Oh?" Horus said simply.

"Yep," Gav said and darted out of the room.

There went his plans to stay in bed and avoid the other men. He sighed. Gav meant well. And he shouldn't avoid the other men. That wouldn't solve anything.

Horus got up and bathed and dressed slowly before leaving the room much more sedately than his younger self.

"And he lives," Hanna teased, coming out of the nursery with Mayra in her arms.

"Good morning, Lady Hanna," Horus greeted with a tired smile.

"For a few more minutes yet," Hanna teased. "You look worn thin. Is everything well?"

"Just a lot on my mind," Horus told her.

"I know two men who would be more than happy to help in that," Hanna assured.

"I think that's part of the problem," Horus admitted sheepishly.

"Have they been overstepping their boundaries?" Hanna asked.

"No," Horus rushed to assure. "I just… don't know if that's something I can do."

"Because there are two of them? Or because you don't want them?" Hanna asked.

"Because they aren't the men I love," Horus admitted softly.

"And the men you love, they are here?" Hanna asked.

"No. No, they're dead. I just don't know how to move on," Horus allowed.

"By letting yourself, first of all," Hanna said soothingly. "You can't live the rest of your life in the past. They'd want you to move on and be happy. It's the best way to honor their loss. How long ago did they pass?"

Horus paused and counted internally. "Eight years and three years," he admitted. "It doesn't seem like that long. And yet it seems like forever. After… the first one, we had a purpose in rebuilding and carrying on and fighting. And then the second one died and… we had won but it all seemed so hollow. And now it seems pointless, futile. Everything we worked for and nothing lasted." He sighed. "And no one is left who remembers them."

"Moving forward doesn't mean forgetting, Horus," Hanna said, laying a hand gently on his arm. "And you don't have to remember alone. You can share stories of them. Relive those moments with us, even if we weren't there."

"I don't know if I can, Lady Hanna," Horus admitted.

"Try," Hanna suggested. "I know two men who would be more than happy to listen."

Horus rubbed at his eyes. "Why is everyone intent on setting me up with a soon to be married couple?" he asked tiredly.

"Because you deserve someone who can help you shoulder whatever burden you are intent on shouldering and they want to help," Hanna explained.

Horus huffed and shook his head. "If I agree to think about it, will you stop humming the Rosarian wedding march whenever we are in the same room?"

"I was wondering when you were going to catch on," Hanna teased.

"Considering I am not Rosarian, it took their wedding practice for me to catch on. It wasn't a good hint," Horus answered back.

"You got there in the end," Hanna said. "Go grab breakfast. The honor guard is meeting in Elwin's study."

Horus nodded and Hanna reluctantly let go of his arm to let him leave. Horus shot her what he hoped was a reassuring look and turned to head to Elwin's study. He should eat but the idea of seeing them after last night made him queasy.

He knocked lightly on the door and Stood uncertainly until Rodney opened the door and bid him enter with a concerned look.

"Horus," Elwin greeted with what Horus supposed was meant to be a reassuring tone.

"I uh…" Horus started uncertainly. "I wanted to apologize. About last night. I shouldn't have…"

"Joined us?" Rodney asked when Horus didn't finish.

Horus shook his head. "No, that's not it. It wasn't about either of you. I think it was just… not the right time. For me. Yet," he explained, adding the qualifier on the end timidly.

"We understand," Elwin assured, approaching to lay a hand soothingly on Horus' arm. "We've perhaps been too… insistent."

"I am flattered," Horus admitted. "Just everything's… It's too much right now."

"It's alright," Rodney agreed. "We can wait. Or not wait. Or forget about it all. Whatever you want."

"I don't want to be accused of 'leading you on'," Horus admitted wryly. "You don't have to wait for me. I wouldn't expect you to."

"Whether you expect it or not, we will," Elwin assured him. "No expectations. Just a friendly ear and a supportive shoulder."

Horus huffed. "I don't understand you two. Why do you… Why do you care so much?"

"Because you need someone to," Rodney told him. "And you are kind and protective of the people we love. Why wouldn't we care about you in return?"

"It's not for you…" Horus pointed out shamefully.

"No, but it's not for them yet either," Elwin answered. "You didn't know them at this age. It's a future shade you loved, you cared about. You didn't save us all for them. You saved us all for what could have been."

"You make it sound like I don't care about them now," Horus grumbled.

"You do. Now. But you've also spent a month in their younger presence. You didn't when you first acted, rushing with two young children across kingdom lines, pushing all of you to your limits to save people who by all rights were strangers at that point," Elwin explained. "There are very few who would do that. And now? You are so good with them. With Gav. You care so much about all of them and about Rosaria and the Bearers. You have a huge heart, Horus. It deserves to be loved as much as it loves."

Horus didn't have a response to that, simply sighing in a huff of defeat. It wasn't special. He wasn't special. Anything extraordinary about him he learned from Cid and from Clive. He had a feeling such an argument would accomplish very little.

"Come on," Rodney said, urging Horus further into the room. "We are waiting for Tyler and Wade to arrive to decide on the rest of the honor guard. Unless you are here to back out, we could use your input."

"I wouldn't back out," Horus said, going as bid to sit on the sofa between Rodney and Elwin.

"Good to know," Rodney teased.

"Have you given any thought to telling them?" Elwin asked.

"About me?" Horus clarified. At Elwin's nod he went on, "I don't know. It feels like they wouldn't believe me. And even if they did, I don't know if I want a bunch of people to know. It could make me a target. Or even make people look to me for answers when I might not have them. Things have already changed. Things I know that came to pass, might not anymore. Certain things I will make sure do not."

"Such as?" Rodney asked.

"Clive's enslavement and Branding. His years spent as a Sanbreqious assassin. The occupation of Rosaria by Sanbreque. Jill's enslavement by the Iron Kingdom. Joshua's five year long coma. The occupation of Twinside by Sanbreque. The destruction of Twinside by Bahamut. The loss of Cid at Drake's Breath. The loss of Theo of the Crimson Caravan," Horus answered. "So many things. So many losses. I can't stop them all. But I will do what I can to ensure the people I know and love are safe. Even if it kills me."

"It had better not come to that," Rodney insisted, placing a heavy hand on the back of Horus' neck.

"It's not the goal," Horus promised.

"It had better stay 'not the goal'," Elwin warned.

"I swear," Horus assured.

Elwin nodded. "Good. I still think those two would be safe to tell. They aren't the kind to spread secrets. And it would give you someone else to confide in if there's an emergency. Or you simply need to talk and we are not available."

Horus sighed. "You are insistent, aren't you?"

"We think it'd be good for you. Hanna should know as well," Rodney told him. "But that one will be at your discretion. But Tyler and Wade should be told while we are in attendance. To lend credence to your story."

"If you insist," Horus sighed. Maybe it would be good for him.

"Don't let us force you. But consider it," Rodney said and then looked up as there was a knock on the door.

"Might as well," Horus allowed. "Since they are here."

Rodney clapped him on the back and stood to answer the door, leaving Elwin next to Horus. The older man squeezed Horus' thigh reassuringly before he sat back and waited for Rodney to let in their friends. As much as subordinates can be friends.

Horus watched as the door swung open. This was going to be an interesting conversation. He was getting just a little tired of those.

Chapter Text

Horus watched as Tyler smirked at seeing him and Elwin sitting so closely together and the very obvious empty spot on Horus' other side that spoke to the young stranger being sandwiched between the Archduke and his Lord Commander. He felt his chest ache at that expectation and felt guilt again at not being able to give everyone what they clearly wanted.

"Good morning, Your Grace, Lord Murdoch, Horus," Tyler greeted as he followed Rodney into the room and stood across from them. He was joined by Wade a moment later after he shut the door and they saluted, standing at attention as they waited for their orders.

"Relax, you two," Elwin teased. "This isn't about business."

Tyler smirked as he relaxed and Wade followed suit, smiling widely. "Pleasure then?" Tyler joked.

"Wedding planning," Rodney answered clapping Tyler on the back with just a touch more force than was friendly.

Tyler nodded in response as Rodney grabbed a stack of paper from Elwin's desk and sat next to Horus.

"Take a seat," Elwin offered, gesturing to the sofa across from them.

"We need help selecting the honor guard for the wedding," Rodney said as Tyler and Wade took their seats.

"The three of you will be acting as our honor guard but we need five more," Elwin explained. "We have a list of the Shields but we need to determine which of them to select."

"We'd be honored to help," Tyler assured.

"Definitely," Wade agreed. "Honored to be included."

"I also need to talk to you about… some things," Horus added somberly.

"Are you sure?" Rodney asked him.

"Better sooner than later," Horus responded.

"Want to get that out of the way?" Rodney suggested.

"I don't want to highjack your planning," Horus said.

"We're the ones that suggested it in the first place," Rodney reminded him.

"Still," Horus deferred.

"Let's start with yours as it will take the longest," Elwin suggested.

"If you insist," Horus conceded.

"It's not about insisting," Elwin pointed out.

"I know," Horus said and sighed. "I don't know how to start."

"I find the beginning is usually a good place," Wade joked.

"There are too many beginnings," Horus said cryptically.

Wade frowned. "How can there be multiple beginnings?" He asked.

"Easily if you're in a spiral," Horus told him.

"You're confusing me," Wade admitted.

"I'm pretty confused myself," Horus admitted. He shook his head and sighed. "Sorry. It's just… hard to explain. It's 860. Only it's not. Or it's not supposed to be. For me and Hati. It's supposed to be 881. Elwin and Rodney died at Phoenix Gate. I wasn't there to stop Anabella's plot. I wasn't there because I'm an 8 year old orphan who was trying to survive in a dead village in the Northern Territories. I don't know how the Fallen tech brought me back but I'm here and things are changing. And I don't know where those changes will take us."

Tyler and Wade stared at Horus blankly before glancing over at Rodney and Elwin skeptically.

"It makes the most sense for the things he knows," Elwin admitted. "It sounds impossible but… I believe him."

"As do I," Rodney added. "We wanted to tell you both as you are trustworthy and should something happen and we need to listen to Horus but Elwin and I are unavailable, Tyler, you have the highest authority over the Shields after myself and, of course, Elwin."

"You're saying he came back in time and changed things?" Tyler asked.

Horus nodded.

"Why?" Tyler asked.

"Why?" Horus echoed.

"Why did you change things when you came back? What happened in the future that your first instinct was to rush to Phoenix Gate and stop Anabella and Sanbreque?" Tyler clarified.

"Sanbreque won. The Phoenix was lost. Clive was Branded and made an assassin. Jill was taken by the Iron Kingdom when they invaded. Rosaria became occupied by Sanbreque and under Anabella's control as the Vicereine, she created a twisted personal army of Black Shields to murder any dissenters and every Branded in the nation," Horus explained to their shocked and horrified faces. "Clive and Joshua and Dion died bringing a new world into existance by destroying the Mothercrystals and stopping the Blight."

"Destroy the Mothercrystals?" Wade asked, horrified.

"They are causing the Blight," Horus explained. "They suck up the aether and don't release it."

"I have someone looking into the claim," Elwin added. "So far we have no plans to destroy the Mothercrystals but we need to be prepared if things continue as they are."

"We wouldn't be able to destroy them anyways without a Dominant," Horus said. "Regular weapons aren't strong enough from my understanding. The Dominants have to destroy the hearts."

"Good to know," Tyler said in numb shock.

"I think I broke him," Horus said sheepishly.

Wade turned to Tyler and blinked. The other man did seem to be a bit catatonic. Wade leaned over to try to meet his gaze. When it seemed Tyler wasn't seeing him, he grasped his jaw lightly to turn him so Wade could kiss him deeply.

Horus blinked himself even though the idea was hardly a surprise. Elwin looked amused as Tyler seemed to come back to himself.

"What happened to us?" Tyler asked, turning back to Horus.

"I don't know what happened to you. Wade turned into a rebel leader and led the Guardians of the Flame in rescuing Bearers and protecting the civilians from the Sanbrequois soldiers. Funded by Byron in secret," Horus explained. "But I never met you in that future."

"I see," Tyler said softly. "It doesn't surprise me that Wade would do something like that. Always been a bit hot-headed."

"You didn't seem to mind last night," Wade teased.

Rodney hid a snort in a cough as Elwin turned his face away to hide his smile. Horus didn't bother hiding his amusement. If Tyler was going to be so amused by Elwin and Rodney's flirting, Horus was going to take joy in the two Shield's public displays.

Tyler rolled his eyes as Wade smiled widely.

"Somehow neither of those things surprise me," Horus commented.

"And you?" Wade countered, waggling his eyebrows and then subsiding slightly at a sharp look from Elwin.

"Wouldn't you like to know," Horus countered, fighting back the sense of shame in his stomach.

"Is there anything else we should know?" Tyler asked, changing the subject back to avoid Wade landing in Elwin or Rodney's deathglares.

"At the moment?" Horus asked. "We need to be prepared for the Iron Kingdom to attack and to confront Sanbreque."

"Both of which we have been preparing for the last month," Tyler said.

"Yes," Horus agreed. He opened his mouth as if to add something and then cast a sideways glance at Elwin. "There is one more thing that we have yet to address," he said solemnly. "The Dominants. We all know Joshua is the Phoenix, we might be able to get Dion to be warded here if we play our cards right with Sanbreque. But Clive and Jill are also Dominants. Shiva and a second fire Eikon, Ifrit. If they, any of them, prime unexpectedly it could be disastrous for anyone in the vicinity. Ifrit tore the Phoenix apart and put Joshua into a five year long sleep in the future in the other existence. We need to find a way to help prepare them and then let them prime somewhere they won't destroy the city."

"Three Eikons in the castle right now?" Tyler asked, shocked.

"That'd be one way to win a war," Wade said.

"At the expense of their lives. Even the Dominants are subject to the Crystal's Curse and will turn to stone with too much aether use," Horus warned.

"Then should we even ask them to prime?" Tyler asked. "Shouldn't we let them slumber unawakened?"

"I would love to," Horus said. "But there are other forces out there that will not allow this chance of Ifrit's awakening to pass unmanipulated."

"What do you mean?" Wade asked.

"Ultima," Horus said simply. "A god-like being who created the Mothercrystals. They want Ifrit awake and they will do whatever they can to turn Clive and Ifrit into the perfect vessel for themselves. And steal his will and isolate him from all connections if they get the chance."

"They can't have him," Elwin said simply.

"No," Horus agreed. "We have to protect him. Protect them all."

"We are with you," Tyler assured.

"Thank you," Horus said sincerely and then looked down sheepishly as his stomach grumbled loudly. "Sorry 'bout that," he said. "I didn't eat breakfast."

"Then you'd better go do so," Elwin said. "We can figure out the honor guard."

"I should hope so," Horus said. "You know them all better than I do."

"Go eat," Rodney said, shoving Horus good-naturedly off the sofa.

"Alright," Horus grumbled. "I see how it is." He huffed as he stood up and headed to the door. "I don't think I need to tell you but… let's keep the kids out of the whole… second time around fiasco," he said before even reaching for the door.

"Not a word," Tyler assured and Wade nodded his agreement.

"Good," Horus sighed. "Thanks again." He cast a look at Elwin and Rodney and left the room without another word. That wasn't so difficult. Then why did he still feel that cold pit in his stomach? He tried to ignore it as he headed to the kitchens to grab something simple to tide him over til lunch. A month of consistent meals at Rosalith was surprisingly easy to get used to after a lifetime of being on the move. Then he'd hunt down Mayra. He needed some time with his niece.

Chapter Text

Mayra was with Marissa and Hanna when Horus found her. The kids were in the courtyard running around and practicing their footwork with practice swords in playful spars as the two ladies watched.

"Good afternoon, Lady Hanna, Miss Marissa," Horus greeted as he sat next to Hanna and waited to say hello to Mayra until she was done eating at Marissa's breast.

"Good afternoon," the women said, smiling.

"So how did your talk with His Grace and Rodney go?" Hanna asked.

"Well enough," Horus admitted. "They are determining the rest of the honor guard and I don't know the Shields that well to have an opinion."

"Ah," Hanna said. "Escaped the tedium of wedding planning."

"It's getting closer," Horus pointed out."

"Ten days," Hanna agreed.

"I've never been to a royal wedding or a Rosarian one, come to think of it," Horus admitted. "I know some of the basics from running through a few practice sessions in terms of proper decorum. But what else goes into the wedding?"

"A lot," Hanna admitted. "I'm sure you know I've been planning it for them since they have their hands full with other issues. I have the flowers, colors, seating arrangements, menu, and some small things for the kids to do after the ceremony. The guest list was the hardest part. Which nobles to invite and which to snub. Which supported Anabella and which are still loyal. And then take into account the ones that will arrive despite not being invited."

"Why wouldn't you invite them?" Horus asked.

"Some are lesser nobles or younger sons looking to gain a foot in the castle," Hanna admitted.

"Why?" Horus asked. "You all are amazing but this whole place is overwhelming."

"For power and prestige," Hanna explained. "You are a rather singular individual, Horus, in that you have not been intimidated by the status in this castle but others are desperate to be in your position."

"What's my position?" Horus asked, confused.

"You have the ear of the Archduke," Hanna said. "You live in the royal halls. Your son," Horus squawked at the phrase. "Your son," Hanna said again, "is carrying the Lord Commander's ring to the altar for his marriage to the Archduke."

"Son?" Horus choked on air.

"He might as well be. You are raising him as well as any father," Hanna pointed out as Marissa fought back her chuckle.

"I'm not…" Horus protested only to cut off at Hanna's pointed look.

"Oh Greagor," Horus said, tucking his head between his legs as he let the knowledge that he was essentially a father wash over him.

"Miss Mayra is going to think of you as Papa," Marissa pointed out. "Aren't you, sweetheart?"

"You know, he's taking it better than Elwin and Rodney did," Hanna told Marissa as she rubbed his back but otherwise ignored the fit next to her.

"Is he?" Marissa asked. "That somehow does not surprise me."

"Rodney was a mess when I pointed out he was acting as Clive's father the first time," Hanna confided. "They'd been going through a rough patch as Anabella had demanded more of Elwin during the pregnancy and Rodney was tearing himself up about whether he was allowed to be a father figure to Clive. Ridiculous."

"Men usually are," Marissa joked.

Hanna shot a look down at Horus, head still between his knees as he panicked. "Indeed," she agreed wryly.

"Uncle Horus!" Gav shouted and rushed to where the three adults were sitting with Joshua, Jill, and Clive in his wake.

"It's alright, Gav honey," Hanna assured. "He's just working through something. He's alright."

"'m fine, Gav," Horus promised, voice muffled in his hands.

"Promise?" Gav asked worriedly.

"Promise, kiddo," Horus said and looked up. "Just a lot happening," he explained.

"But you're not leaving, right?" Gav asked, scared.

"Hey, look at me, Gav," Horus said, reaching for Gav's hands and pulling him closer to stare intently into his eyes. "I am never going anywhere without you and Mayra. I promise."

Gav nodded timidly.

"Okay?" Horus asked, nodding along with Gav.

"Okay," Gav agreed.

"Good," Horus said and smiled gently at him before kissing his head and turning him around. "Go work on your footwork, the parry was a little sloppy." He told him and urged him forward back toward the other kids and the courtyard.

Gav looked back once and then followed the others slowly until they were back to playing.

"See," Hanna pointed out.

Horus sighed. "Yeah. Fine."

Marissa lifted Mayra from her teat and burped her before standing to hand her over to Horus. "Your daughter, my Lord," she teased.

Horus glared at her heatlessly and took Mayra into his arms and put her up against his shoulder where she burbled and cooed. "There you are, little Miss," Horus said, bouncing her lightly.

Mayra laid against him and cooed as she settled into the soft bounce and warmth of his shoulder. Her little fist found it's way into her mouth and she proceeded to drool on Horus' shoulder until her eyes closed and she fell asleep.

"If you don't mind, I'll take my leave for now, my Lord, my Lady," Marissa said with a curtsy.

"I'm not a Lord, Marissa," Horus reminded for what felt like the hundredth time in the last month.

"Of course not, my Lord," Marissa responded with a smile and with another bow, turned to go.

Hanna watched her with a considering look.

"I keep telling her," Horus protested. "She doesn't listen."

Hanna simply hummed.

Horus sighed. "You're planning something," he accused, resigned to his fate.

"Don't worry your handsome head over it," Hanna told him. "You'll be told when it's relevant."

"Great," he grumbled but he knew better than to contradict or argue with her over it. She was somehow as stubborn as Cid. Quite a feat really.

Hanna just smirked and kept her silence. Horus tried to ignore it and focused instead on the soft and steady breathing of Mayra against his shoulder and her little puffs of breath against his neck and the sound of wooden blades clashing in the courtyard as the kids played, forgetting the structure of their training and relaying on muscle memory and instinct. The afternoon went by quickly as Horus watched them, making mental notes about what to address and work on the next day in training. Soon it was nearly time for supper and Horus sent the kids off to clean up and headed to the dining hall.

All in all it was a good day for him. Relaxing after the stress of revealing himself to Tyler and Wade and he felt much refreshed and ready to face Elwin and Rodney at supper and see how the planning went after he left.

Chapter Text

Supper that night was much more relaxed than Horus had feared in the morning. The kids were tired from their playing all afternoon and Mayra was a warm weight in Horus' arms. Elwin and Rodney smiled at him as they entered the room and Horus felt more at ease. There was a sense of something having settled in him over the afternoon and coming to terms with being a father to Gav and Mayra. He wouldn't ask Gav to call him father, of course, that would be a step too far. But the acknowledgement soothed some hidden fear that Horus was overstepping his bounds in his dealings with Gav in terms of teaching and discipline. Not that Gav needed much discipline at this stage, the boy was still too afraid of Horus disappearing to be comfortable acting out.

"Did you get your Shields chosen?" Horus asked as he took his seat next to Elwin with Mayra and amusedly handed her over to the other man's grabbing hands. Elwin seemed as enthralled with Mayra as any uncle would be. It made Horus' chest ache something fierce.

"We did," Rodney answered as Elwin was too busy playing with Mayra. "It took a while to decide on who to leave out more than who to include."

"Ah," Horus said. "Who to insult. Hanna had the same issue with the guest list she was telling me."

"Unfortunately it's part of being the ones in charge. Everyone wants to be there and we don't want most of them," Elwin joked, still making funny faces to make Mayra laugh.

"I can only imagine," Horus agreed.

"We did want to talk to you about something, if you're willing," Elwin said, finally growing serious and looking away from Mayra and up to Horus.

"Oh?" Horus asked.

"How would you feel about an official Lordship?" Elwin asked.

"Me? A Lordship?" Horus asked, shocked and yet not. "I mean… flattered but…"

"You deserve it," Elwin insisted.

"I really didn't do much," Horus said.

"You did more than you think," Rodney told him. "It's hard enough traveling alone but you had a newborn and a young boy to push across country to try to get in front of the Imperials to save complete strangers. That couldn't have been easy."

"I mean… no but still… a Lordship?" Horus asked.

"I think you should, Uncle Horus," Gav piped up from next to him.

"Oh should I?" Horus asked.

"Yeah. It'll be cool," Gav insisted.

"I'm not cool now?" Horus asked, faking insult.

"It'll be cooler," Gav corrected, rolling his eyes.

"What title were you thinking, Father?" Joshua asked from Gav's other side.

"It depends," Elwin admitted. "I have a feeling Horus will protest but a Marquess would be the best option for several reasons."

"Marquess?" Horus squawked.

"What do you mean? What reasons?" Clive asked.

"First of all, it makes a very large statement of trust. Think about the land holdings of our Marquess's. Rodney and Clive, your future land holdings when you come of age. What do they share in common?" Elwin asked.

"They're border counties. The marches," Clive answered.

"Exactly. And so to be a Lord of a march, you are being entrusted with the safety and security of the duchy's borders," Elwin explained.

"And that's why they are usually distant cousins? Because they are trusted more?" Joshua asked.

"They tend to be cousins due to being inherited from prior unthroned sons," Elwin corrected. "But there have been others who have been named Marquess who are not related. Do you remember who they were?"

"Lord Vaughn Murdoch, Uncle Rodney's father," Clive answered.

"Very good," Elwin praised. "And another?"

"Was it the Niles family?" Joshua asked.

"Yes," Elwin answered. "Delwyn Niles saved the life of the then Phoenix in a sea battle against the Iron Kingdom. The Phoenix, your great great great great grandfather granted him a coastal march and placed him as an admiral in the navy."

"So definitely not unheard of," Clive said, consideringly.

"Still doesn't mean you should go around handing it out to me," Horus protested.

"You said reasons, like more than one," Joshua pointed out.

"It would be helpful with the wedding to have it done beforehand," Elwin admitted. "There are very few Shields that are in the honor guard that are not a part of a Lord's family in some way. In order to avoid conflicts with the nobles, the higher ranking Horus has, the more we can justify choosing him instead of say… Sir Seymour's nephew."

"That makes sense," Clive agreed.

"So Horus is going to be a new Marquess?" Joshua asked excitedly.

"I would like to, if he doesn't object," Elwin pointed out, looking over to Horus for his input.

The rest of the table looked over excitedly at Horus.

Horus sighed at the excited looks on the kids faces and deflated. "Does it have to be something so… responsibility laden? I don't know how to be a Lord much less a Marquess."

"It can be a purely ceremonial role. There isn't really much need for a Marquess on the Northern border any longer, unfortunately. But there is a bit of land in Rodney's county that could be split off for a more honorary showing," Elwin explained.

"As long as I don't need to go dealing with… I don't know… taxes? Tithes? What do Lords do?" Horus asked.

The table laughed good-naturedly. "You wouldn't be responsible for directly overseeing taxes. That would be the magistrate. But we'll keep it purely honorary for you," Rodney soothed.

"As long as I get to still be mostly invisible," Horus conceded.

"Oh I don't know about that," Rodney teased. "But we'll keep the worst of the big bad nobles away."

"You'd better," Horus grumbled.

"Of course, Your Lordship," Elwin teased.

Horus blanched as the table started laughing again.

"Oh laugh it up, Gav. But you get to inherit it from me," Horus threatened.

Gav went silent. "Clive and Joshua will help me when that happens," he said simply after a moment of consideration.

Horus huffed.

"We'll show you the ropes," Elwin assured quietly into Horus' ear. "After all, with a Lordship, we'll need to vet the suitors for this little lady as well."

"My Mayra isn't getting married," Horus protested.

"Yet," Rodney pointed out.

Horus pouted.

"You do realize pouting like that makes you look very kissable," Elwin teased as the kids continued to laugh and talk about the wedding and the titling ceremony for Horus.

Horus flushed and looked away embarrassedly. He looked up again as Rodney's foot knocked his under the table and Rodney winked at him.

Horus huffed and glanced away again but there was a smile on his face. It felt… strange and thrilling to be wanted like that. He wasn't used to the regard or the flirting. He wasn't sure if he was ready for something with the two of them but he had to admitted the soft pursuit was nice. He returned the knock against his boot in permission and saw two bright smirks from the corner of his eye.

Chapter Text

"You know, Horus," Elwin said as Rodney poured them all drinks after dinner. "The three of you will need a family name."

"Have you given any further thought to it since we mentioned it before?" Rodney asked and took his spot next to Horus and draped an arm around the back of the sofa to brush teasingly over the shell of Elwin's ear.

"I have," Horus admitted, looking down at his drink. He was developing expensive tastes. "I was thinking… Raiden."

"Horus Raiden," Elwin mused.

"Gav Raiden. Mayra Raiden," Rodney added.

"I think it's perfect for you three," Elwin said and Rodney nodded as he took a drink.

"A perfect storm," Rodney teased after he swallowed.

"I still think Marquess is excessive but… you know your nobles better than I do," Horus admitted.

"We do," Rodney teased and tugged on Horus' short braids at the back of his head.

Horus leaned his head forward with a soft huff and a fake glare.

Rodney smiled widely at him.

"You're in a mood," Horus accused.

"Maybe," Rodney agreed. "I'm rather excited about the entire situation."

"Which situation?" Horus asked.

"Getting married. Seeing you given a Lordship," Rodney answered. "It's all rather exciting."

"Why do I think you have a hidden ulterior motive for granting me a Lordship?" Horus asked, suspiciously.

"We've no idea what you could possibly mean," Elwin protested innocently.

"Of course not," Horus agreed sarcastically.

"It's not like the higher ranking nobility you are, the less people can say if they find out we are trying to woo you," Rodney admitted.

Horus choked on his drink. "Woo?"

"Was that unclear?" Elwin asked.

"I mean… I…" Horus sputtered.

"Horus," Elwin said as the younger man tried to clean up the spilt wine. "Horus," he said again and turned Horus' red face to his own. "Do you want us to stop?"

Horus met Elwin's soft gaze with his own wide, skittish eye.

Elwin stroked over his cheek and the bottom edge of his scar as he waited. "Do you?"

"No," Horus admitted shyly.

"Then just enjoy the attention," Elwin urged and lifted Horus' wine soaked hand to his lips to suck the taste of wine off his fingers.

Horus felt his breath catch in his throat at the tender attention and then jolted slightly when he felt Rodney kiss the tip of his ear and tug on his hair again.

"We aren't going to take a full honeymoon," Rodney explained. "But perhaps you would join us as one of our guards in Eastpool?"

"And the kids?" Horus asked.

"Can stay with Hanna," Rodney suggested.

"We can plan it to leave early to ensure Phoenix Gate is secure while Hanna and the kids follow after us by a few days," Elwin suggested. "Give us a chance to have a little bit of time to ourselves and maybe get some sport in."

"Sport?" Horus asked.

"Hunting," Rodney answered. "Elwin loves going out into the fields where there isn't anyone around."

"Field sex is hot sex," Elwin explained.

Horus huffed in amusement.

"Will you join us?" Rodney asked.

"I can't promise I won't cry on you again if I do," Horus protested.

"Sometimes you need a good cry," Elwin explained. "And you've earned it."

"Can we maybe… another time?" Horus asked.

"Of course," Elwin soothed.

"Only if you want to," Rodney assured.

Horus released a tension he hadn't known he was holding. "I'd… best get to bed,"

"Of course," Elwin allowed and kissed his fingers before letting go of his hands.

Horus paused and then stood to head to the door. Rodney and Elwin stood after him and Rodney walked him to the door. Horus stopped when Rodney placed a hand on his back and turned to look at him.

"We're always here," Rodney reminded and kissed his cheek before letting him open the door and leave.

Horus did leave in a daze and made it back to his own room and a sleeping Mayra before he knew it. He felt a tingling in his belly and a shiver up his spine as he thought of Elwin's lips on his hands and Rodney's hands tugging on his hair.

He didn't go running back but it was a near thing. It felt like… it felt like being wanted. And Greagor did Horus miss feeling wanted.

Chapter Text

Horus sighed as he examined his reflection in the mirror. He looked ridiculous. He was dressed like some hoity-toity noble. If the Hideaway could see him now they'd be laughing their asses off.

Gav was sitting next to him on the table and smiling widely. "You look fancy, Uncle Horus," Gav told him.

"So do you," Horus accused. And he did. Gav was wearing a miniature version of Horus' outfit. The leather trousers and surcoat with a custom made coat of arms for House Raiden. Horus had been the one to describe what the house stood for. Honor. Loyalty. Duty. Compassion. Freedom.

He gave them the oath and Cid's, Clive's, marque. He told them they could do what they like as a border but the marque was to remain untouched. They placed it on a black field. The marque stitched in white. He had told them red and purple. His usual armor was orange. They wove them together into a three strand rope that crowned the marque like a laurel. If the Hideaway had ever needed a coat of arms, he would have wanted it to look as good as the one he had here and now. Gazing at it for too long hurt his eyes.

"Uncle Horus?" Gav asked softly.

"Yeah, Gav?" Horus answered, turning away from gazing at the stitched crest on his surcoat and facing the young boy.

"Are you sad cause of the people you lost?" Gav asked.

"Who said I'm sad?" Horus asked.

Gav responded with a look that Horus could have sworn came from Tarja had he been in his own time.

Horus sighed. "Yeah," he admitted. "Yeah it reminds me of who I lost."

"It's not cause you don't want to be a family with me, right?" Gav asked shyly.

"Gav," Horus said seriously. "You are mine. I don't care if we didn't know each other before. I don't care if we don't share blood. You are mine in all the ways that count and I am never going to leave you out."

"So l, Mayra and I are both Raiden's now?" Gav asked.

"Yes. We are House Raiden," Horus said placing his hands on Gav's shoulders. "And I will always be proud of you and this family."

Gav looked up shyly.

"Horus," Hanna called, knocking on the door.

"Come in," Horus called and stepped aside after brushing out invisible wrinkles and lint from Gav's shoulders.

"Don't you two look handsome," Hanna said as she entered.

"Miss Mayra is ready too," Hanna crooned and went over to Mayra's crib to see her in her pretty dress, pale purple with red and orange stitching around the hem. Their crest was embroidered on the chest and the scalloped hem on the skirt.

"The dress is beautiful on her, Hanna. You did a beautiful job," Horus praised.

"All of you look like such a fine upstanding family. Definitely worthy of being our new Marquess," Hanna said.

Horus placed a hand on Gav's shoulder and pulled him close. "We will do our best."

"I know you will. Best get the three of you down to the throne room," Hanna said. "It's time."

Horus took a deep, bracing breath and nodded. He picked up Mayra and followed Hanna down to the throne room doors with Gav. It was really happening. No chance of running now. He'd have a responsibility to Rosaria after this. He glanced down at Gav. It'd be a new home. A new family. A new life. Solidified. Once he did this, he couldn't leave. Not that he wanted to but… it'd feel more permanent.

Horus pulled Gav closer to his side for a moment and looked down at him with a smile. "Ready?" He asked softly.

Gav nodded nervously and the guards opened the doors to let them in.

The three of them walked side by side up to the dais where Elwin was waiting for them and bowed. Horus vaguely followed along. He knew he was making oaths on behalf of himself, Gav, and Mayra. He knew he was proclaiming them his. He was stating before the kingdom that they were his heirs, his family, by blood or not. He was swearing fealty to the Phoenix and the duchy. He was promising to uphold the Rosarian border and the safety of her people. The exact words escaped him. In fact, all he could focus on was Elwin's reassuring face, Gav's warmth pressing close in his nervousness, Mayra's weight in his arms. It was almost too much, too claustrophobic. And then he remembered Clive and how much he loved Rosaria. He remembered Cid and his leadership to those under him. He thought of the Hideaway and how much easier life would have been with the power of a throne behind them. And Elwin's promise to help him free the Bearers and acceptance of Mayra. Of Rodney's kindness and strength. Of Elwin's compassion and sense of duty. Of Joshua, of the Phoenix, and how he had never returned from Origin and how enthralled he was with Mayra.

If he were to swear fealty to anyone, to promise his sword and his life, it would be to these people.

Horus knelt with Gav and Elwin took the sword Rodney offered to him and Horus could feel the cold weight of it resting at the top of his spine as his face was cast downwards. When it disappeared, Horus stood and Elwin offered him the sword in his hand. Horus handed Mayra off to Gav and took the sword. He had never seen it before and he caught sight of an inscription he intended to read later when he had a chance. Horus saluted in the habit of Rosarian Shields and at Elwin's acknowledgement, he sheathed the sword at his hip. Horus turned and caught sight of the nobles politely applauding. Joshua, Clive, Jill, Byron, and Hanna applauding the most enthusiastically. He nodded at them, took Mayra back from Gav and led the way down to the crowd to take a place near the royal family as he had been instructed to do by Elwin as they discussed the ceremony.

Elwin made a brief speech about the dangers facing Rosaria from her enemies and from what had been her friends. Horus barely caught what he said through the rushing sound of blood in his ears as he tried to settle his nerves. He did catch that Elwin was encouraging the nobles to attempt to up their enlistment numbers, though he reminded them it must be purely voluntary. He alluded to the conflict with the Iron Kingdom taking precedence and reminded them of the fight ahead before releasing them.

The nobles crowded the doors and left while Elwin and Rodney made their way from the throne to where the royal family was congratulating Horus.

"You did wonderfully," Hanna was trying to tell him.

"I hardly remember what I said," Horus admitted.

"That's alright. I barely remember the coronation when I became Archduke," Elwin confided. "I was a nervous wreck."

"He was," Rodney agreed. "I caught him throwing up in the flower beds beforehand."

"Yuck," Joshua said.

"Wait until it's your turn, Joshua," Elwin warned. "You will be Grand Duke when you come of age. I am merely warming your seat until that time. And thankfully, you will not have to contend with my death in the days preceding, Founder willing. Your grandfather had passed three days prior to my coronation. Even the three days without a crowned Archduke was pushing it. But I had insisted in waiting until his body had been returned and passed to the flames."

"I don't want you dying to take the throne," Joshua said.

"And it won't happen," Rodney said pointedly. "He's got plenty of years left to live."

"May the Phoenix will it," Elwin responded.

"I do," Joshua insisted.

"Then I shall do my best to ensure my continued existence," Elwin promised.

Horus kept his mouth shut, well aware of what had happened last time. Of why Joshua had primed the first time. Of Elwin's borrowed time already. He shook his head as he realized the group was looking at him.

"Sorry," Horus said, "lost in thought."

"Ready for lunch?" Elwin asked, presumably again.

"Yeah," Horus agreed. "Sure. Let's go. I'm starving."

"You barely ate any breakfast," Elwin pointed out as the kids ran ahead to the dining hall.

"I was nervous," Horus defended.

"I don't doubt it. I know how it is to get in front of them," Elwin agreed.

"You had a strange look on your face though before we got you out of your head," Rodney said softly as the three of them hung back.

"Just… remembering," Horus admitted. He was trying to be honest with them when things were hard, to rely on them and talk to them about the future that will not be.

"Remembering?" Elwin asked.

"That you are already on borrowed time," Horus admitted. "And that you had better keep borrowing time. Can't very well woo me if you're dead."

"I won't go down easily," Elwin promised. "I promise. It's not something I can say will not happen, but I will do my best to prevent it."

"Good," Horus said simply. "The duchy can't survive without her Archduke for the people."

"Is that what they call me?" Elwin asked.

"The Archduke who speaks for them," Rodney said. "Yeah."

Elwin grimaced. "Makes me sound pretentious," he grumbled.

"More than being Archduke?" Horus laughed.

"Yes," Elwin said simply.

Rodney and Horus both laughed at him as they entered the dining hall.

Being Marquess Raiden wasn't so very different from being Horus, he decided as he laughed and ate with Elwin and Rodney and the kids. It was much less to get used to than the fact he was sitting at the royal table in the first place. It was just a title. Nothing changed. Not more than arriving back here at least. He watched as Elwin and Rodney both held and played with Mayra and complimented her pretty dress. He could do worse in his friends. It was time to move on and make this world and this life his. Time to stop thinking of it as someone else's life he was stealing. It was his. Cid the Third, Gav the scout, they died three years after Origin. He was Horus Raiden, Marquess of Wyke's Peak of the duchy of Rosaria.

Chapter Text

It seemed like Horus had barely blinked and the next two weeks had passed. He had taken to following Rodney, who followed Elwin, and learning the ins and outs of the court. He regreted agreeing to the Marquess title at least once a day but it made Rodney and Elwin happy to teach him and the kids enjoyed teasing him with 'Your Lordship'. The entire thing was a welcome reprieve from wedding planning according to Rodney. And if it wasn't wedding planning then it was war planning. And if it wasn't war planning it was Lordship Lessons. And if it wasn't Lordship Lessons it was Operation Freedom, as Gav had named it. Horus thought it was a bit pretentious but it made the kids happy to be a part of making sure Mayra was treated right despite her magic.

Horus found himself once again in front of the mirror adjusting the Shield armor for the wedding. He was not used to how little armor there was on his arms. Thankfully he didn't usually have to wear the Shield armor, not being a Shield officially. But the wedding had to be perfect and he had to fit in. The honor guard had special dress uniforms for the occasion and Horus wasn't sure who designed them but they hadn't been in combat before. Then again, there wasn't supposed to be combat today. It had better stay that way.

Horus adjusted his vambraces and then headed out to where the Shields were gathering before the wedding. He paused a moment outside Elwin's room when he heard cursing.

He listened in amusement for a moment and then knocked on the door. Clive answered a moment later and looked immensely relieved when he saw Horus.

"Everything alright?" Horus asked.

"Father is…" Clive trailed off as Elwin's voice drifted through the bedroom doorway to the sitting room. "Stressed," he finally finished.

"I'll talk to him," Horus said and patted Clive on the back and headed further in. Clive sighed in relief and disappeared, hopefully to check on Rodney. "Elwin?" Horus called as he approached the bedroom. He had finally taken to calling him and Rodney by their first names when the two had conspired to answer to nothing but for days on end. He was fairly sure it went against courtly protocol but Elwin and Rodney had refused to comment on it.

"Horus?" Elwin answered and poked his head out of the bedroom door.

"Everything alright?" Horus asked.

"Where's Clive?" Elwin responded with instead of answering.

"Left," Horus said. "Said you were stressed. I offered to help."

"Oh thank the Founder," Elwin said and gestured him into the room. "I wanted to surprise Rodney for tonight. It's hardly our first time together but there's still something special about the wedding night."

"Alright," Horus agreed, eyes glued to the pieces of fabric on the bed.

Elwin closed the door after Horus and came up to stand next to him. "I can't figure out how to put it on."

"That's likely because 90 percent of it is missing," Horus commented.

Elwin rolled his eyes. "Can you help me?" Elwin asked.

"I suppose," Horus agreed and reached out for what was a very phallic toy. "And this?"

"Supposed to wear it during the ceremony," Elwin said, "Underneath it all."

"Supposed to?" Horus asked.

"I want to," Elwin corrected.

Horus glanced up at Elwin. He was in his undershirt and loose trousers so he hadn't gotten dressed yet. "And you'll be okay and comfortable wearing this all day?"

"Not the first time," Elwin shrugged.

Horus blinked. That was… he shook his head. Now wasn't the time. "Alright. Let's deal with that first. Clothes off, Your Grace."

"I do like it when they're bossy," Elwin teased and stripped out of his shirt and trousers. He climbed onto the bed and reached for the vial of oil he had placed on the side table for tonight's use. He made himself comfortable on his knees and elbows, legs spread and waited patiently.

Horus watched him and swallowed thickly at Elwin's easy acceptance of Horus' direction. He took a deep breath and grabbed the oil, pouring some on his fingers. He spared a brief thought to how odd this was, preparing his liege for a toy on the day of his wedding to another man when the two men getting married had been trying to woo him recently.

"You know, Horus," Elwin said breathlessly as Horus spread the oil around his rim and started to loosen him up. "We might need help getting me out of it tonight too."

"Isn't that your husband's privilege?" Horus asked.

"Yes," Elwin said and gasped as Horus finally slipped his finger into Elwin's body. "But what if he needs help?"

"It's your wedding night," Horus pointed out. "And knowing you, you'll be too impatient to wait and he'll end up cutting it off you anyways. If he doesn't end up just tearing it," he corrected, eyeing the thinness of the fabric strips.

"And wouldn't you love to see that?" Elwin asked. "His muscles bulging as he just tears it to pieces."

Horus shifted as his trousers grew tight. "Why do you want me there on your wedding night?"

Elwin cast a glance over his shoulder, "Because I like attractive men with good hearts."

Horus flushed and stammered. He pulled his two fingers out of Elwin's body and dribbled more oil into his stretched hole and pressed in with three.

"You know what else could get me stretched?" Elwin asked.

"My dick?" Horus guessed.

"If you're offering," Elwin teased and pressed back into Horus's hand.

"And Rodney?" Horus asked.

"You can fuck him before the ceremony too," Elwin offered.

Horus blinked.

"He's likely a bit stressed," Elwin went on. "He tries to hide it, and he does well enough, but I can tell the wedding has him a bit anxious. As much as I and the kids and the Shields support him, he's never been especially welcome with the nobles. His father being a newly titled Lord due to war heroics instead of old blood. He worries about the nobles and their behaviour."

"I can understand that," Horus sympathized.

"So a little stress relief when i am not supposed to see him until the ceremony would be welcome," Elwin explained. "After you get that lovely cock in me first."

Horus huffed but the warmth of Elwin's body, the slickness of the oil, the rough needy tone to Elwin's coldly calculating words had Horus' body confused and aroused and really… would it be so bad to give Elwin what he wanted?

Horus hurried to loosen the ties of his trousers and slicked himself up.

Elwin cast a look back and wet his lips. "That's it, Horus."

Horus took his fingers out and replaced them with the tip of his cock and slid inside slowly. His forehead met Elwin's back and he started up a quick pace.

"Just like that," Elwin praised. "Fuck, right there. Founder, you're so good at that." His hand went to try to wrap around his cock and Horus grabbed his wrist and held it behind Elwin's back. "Ah," Elwin gasped. "Horus," he moaned.

"You're going to cum on your husband's cock today. Not mine," Horus ordered. He wasn't sure where the assertiveness came from but Elwin moaned loudly at it. "Gonna fill you up and plug you full of me so Rodney can see how much you couldn't wait to get fucked by someone else before your wedding. And then you're going to tell him how I didn't let you cum. You're going to tell him and you're going to beg to cum on his cock. Aren't you, Your Grace?"

"Fuck," Elwin moaned and nodded his head. "Yes. Fuck yes, gonna get fucked by Rodney with your seed still filling me up tonight."

"Good boy," Horus said and grunted as he came, pumping into Elwin's body until his body was spent. He panted for a moment before he pulled out. He made sure to catch every drop of cum leaking from Elwin's gaping hole and the tip of Horus' cock and stuffed it back inside the Archduke before plugging him up with the toy. It was short and fat with a flared base and Horus patted it as it fit snugly between Elwin's cheeks.

"Fuck, Horus," Elwin groaned. "Where did that come from?"

"I don't know," Horus admitted.

"Wherever it was, keep it coming," Elwin told him, rolling over onto his back and moaning as the toy shifted.

"I'll keep that in mind," Horus said shyly. "Let's get you dressed, Your Grace."

"If my cock will go down," Elwin said.

Horus reached out for the strips of cloth and held it up. It was red and lacey the thin thread picking out a flame like motif in the lace. He slid the material onto Elwin's legs and pulled it up until his hard cock was barely hidden behind the lace, red leaking tip poking up past the waistband. It looked painful and Horus was tempted to put his mouth around it but he was determined, Elwin was going to cum with Rodney today, not Horus.

The next piece of lace looked like a corset with a thin boning that was more to maintain the lace's shape than to help Elwin maintain his. It wrapped around his torso and Horus pulled Elwin to a sitting position and ignored his moan and shifting before tying him into the corset. The rest of the outfit was the usual dress attire for the Archduke tunic, chainmail, surcoat, trousers and boots. By the time Horus had helped Elwin dress, the Archduke was more composed and his cock had wilted but Horus had a suspicion it would stay semi-hard with that toy moving in him and keeping him stretched all day.

Elwin pulled his gloves on and brushed the hair out of his face. He looked put together and Horus was almost ready to go again by the thought of how debauched he had been so recently. Maybe he should seek out Rodney.

"Well, Your Grace?" Horus asked. "Ready to get married?"

"More than," Elwin admitted. "Thank you." He turned away from the mirror and kissed Horus heatedly. When he pulled away, he still looked composed but his lips were red and shiny.

"Should I go check on your husband to be?" Horus asked.

"Please do," Elwin said. "Tell him I sent you and I'll see him soon. And give him this," Elwin said and pulled Horus into another passionate kiss where he mapped Horus' mouth with his tongue.

Horus nodded in a daze when they separated and left the bedroom. The sitting room was empty, thank the Founder. He did not want to find Clive had heard them. He'd likely die of embarrassment. Clive was instead in the hallway with Joshua and Byron. Horus nodded to them and assured them that Elwin was calmer. Byron shot him a knowing look and ushered the boys into the room. Horus could hear Elwin complimenting their nice attire before the door closed. He went to seek out Rodney. He had a message to pass along after all.

Chapter Text

Horus sighed as he passed through the halls of the castle and towards where he knew Rodney would be getting dressed. Hanna had insisted that they conform to the tradition of not seeing each other the day of the wedding and so had forced them to sleep not only in separate beds or rooms but separate wings of the castle. Rodney had a special guard on his room throughout the night. Ostensibly to prevent assassination attempts while he slept outside the royal wing. Horus however had caught Hanna instructing the guards to fetch her should he leave and make for the royal wing to break her instructions.

"Morning, Lord Horus," the guards greeted.

"Morning. Is he in?" Horus asked.

"Aye, sir," the guard answered. "Lord Gav is in with him as is Lady Hanna."

"Thanks," Horus said and knocked.

Gav opened the door after a moment. "Uncle Horus!" he shouted and launched himself at Horus.

Horus caught him with an "oomph" and hugged him.

"Uncle Rodney is hiding in his room," Gav told him.

"Oh is he?" Horus asked.

"He's having a small bit of panic," Hanna said.

"I'll talk to him," Horus assured. "Why don't you and Gav go get him breakfast from the kitchens. Something sweet."

Hanna smirked at him but nodded and ushered Gav out of the room with her leaving Horus to 'talk' with Rodney. Horus felt himself blush at her knowing look.

"Rodney," Horus greeted and knocked on the bedroom door.

"Horus?" Rodney asked and opened the door.

"Hanna said you were panicking?" Horus asked.

"What if I'm a horrible consort?" Rodney asked.

"I doubt that," Horus assured, stepping into the room. "I also know Elwin doesn't care."

"How do you know?" Rodney asked.

Horus shot him a droll look. "Because he sent me with a message," he admitted after Rodney looked down sheepishly.

"What message?" Rodney asked.

Horus stepped up to him and pulled him down to kiss him as passionately as Elwin had. Rodney sighed after the initial shock of the kiss faded and pulled Horus closer with two wide hands on his waist.

"Elwin has loved you your whole lives," Horus pointed out. "That isn't going to stop if you are a bad consort. It's not going to stop if you mess up with the nobles. It would likely not even stop if you betrayed Rosaria. He'd still love you through the pain. And everyone but you seems to know how impossible any of those things are."

"I want to be the best for him," Rodney admitted.

"And you are," Horus pointed out. "You're the best you. And that's what he loves. Now… do you want to hear about how he begged me to fuck him before your wedding?" Horus asked him.

Rodney's eyes darkened with hunger. "Did you?" he asked.

"I did," Horus admitted. "But he's waiting for you to make him cum tonight. If he's being good and obeying me."

"You cheeky thing," Rodney accused with a smirk. "Would you fuck me?"

"Do you want me to?" Horus asked.

"It would be a wonderful way to get me loosened up," Rodney teased.

"You know," Horus teased, leaning forward as if to kiss Rodney. "Your husband to be invited me to your room this evening. And he has a lovely surprise for you. One you are going to love. I had to help him with it. Kind of want to see your face when you open it."

"You can," Rodney allowed, chasing Horus' teasing lips.

"Then maybe we should wait until tonight to fuck you," Horus suggested.

Rodney pulled Horus tight to his body with a growl. "Tease," he accused.

"Never said you couldn't fuck me right now," Horus corrected.

Rodney wet his lips. "Then we'd better get you out of your nice uniform," he said.

"You don't want to fuck me with it on?" Horus teased.

"Tonight," Rodney promised. "You still need to look presentable for the ceremony."

Horus smiled and started stripping out of his armor. Rodney's hands started working on the unfamiliar buckles alongside Horus'.

"You look good in our armour," Rodney praised.

"Better out of it?" Horus joked.

"Better when smiling," Rodney said. "You've worn a frown so often since we met. I like you playful."

Horus paused and smiled softly. "And your Shields say you're a hardass," he teased.

"You can feel my ass," Rodney told him with a wink.

Horus reached around Rodney to squeeze his ass with a cheeky wink. "Nothing hard here."

"Oh there's something hard alright," Rodney assured.

Horus laughed and trailed his hand around to cup Rodney's cock. "Yes, definitely hard."

Rodney kissed him again as Horus stroked him through the linen trousers he had worn to bed. Horus let Rodney guide him back to the bed and was pressed, half undressed, into the mattress as Rodney held himself up over him. Horus held Rodney close with a hand tangled in his slicked hair as he undulated against the body holding him down.

Rodney left Horus' lips for his neck and Horus could practically feel the inner struggle Rodney had in not marking him up completely.

"There's plenty of flesh the uniform does cover," Horus allowed.

Rodney cast a glance up at Horus' face and proceeded to nearly tear the clothing while he yanked it off Horus to get to covered skin.

Horus chuckled at his eagerness which devolved into a moan as Rodney latched onto his nipple and tugged. Rodney smirked and left a trail of bruising kisses over Horus's torso before tearing his trousers off and flipping him over onto his stomach.

Horus laughed breathlessly at the manhandling and arched his ass up for Rodney to grope.

Rodney leaned down and teasingly bit Horus' ass and sucked a dark bruise into the skin. "You certainly do not have a hard ass," he teased. "I'm going to love sinking into this," he said and slapped the cheek he had not bruised.

"Better hurry then, your ex-wife could be back soon," Horus warned.

Rodney huffed in amusement and reached for the oil Horus had grabbed after Elwin had sent him to seduce his husband to be. Rodney didn't linger in prepping Horus. Each finger was slid in just that touch too soon but Horus loved feeling the stretch and begged earlier each time for the next.

"So fucking tight, Horus," Rodney groaned as he pressed in with his cock. "Like you've never been fucked before."

"Been a while," Horus agreed, trying to relax and savor the push in.

Rodney paused when he was in and leaned down to press his forehead to Horus' back. "How long?" he asked.

"Nine years," Horus admitted. "Give or take."

Rodney didn't answer verbally but he wrapped his arms around Horus at the pain in his voice and held him tightly until the younger man tilted his head back and turned to kiss him.

"You can fuck me now," Horus whispered.

Rodney hummed and then started moving slowly, tenderly. Horus felt his breath catch. Neither Rodney or Elwin had promised him more than friendly fucks but even ten years after his last fuck, Horus knew this was different. Rodney was making love to Horus. He moved and held him differently than any other partner had. Even the ones who had been his friends, or friendly. It made Horus' chest ache.

"Rodney," Horus moaned as the other man moved.

"Horus," Rodney teased.

"Please," Horus begged. "Don't tease."

"Too much?" Rodney asked.

Horus kissed him heatedly. "Too soon," he admitted when he pulled away.

Rodney kissed him softly again and sped up. He kept his hands tender as he moved but Horus could feel he was not holding himself so carefully any longer.

"Fuck me, Rod," Horus begged and Rodney kissed him before he did as requested.

Rodney pinned him down, hand on the back of his neck and fucked into him forcefully, one hand holding his hips in place. The sound of grunting and slapping skin and slick suction echoed under Horus' moans and Rodney's muttered curses and praises.

"Ah, ah, ah," Horus cried out as Rodney nailed his prostate and he reached down to try to grasp his own cock for some much needed relief but it was grasped by Rodney and pinned above his head.

"Mine," Rodney growled.

Horus nodded breathlessly and Rodney let go of his wrist and reached around to stroke Horus in one large calloused hand. Horus moaned at the touch.

"Close, Rodney. Please," Horus begged.

"That's right," Rodney praised and sped up his hand until Horus let out a cry and spilled over his hand. Rodney caught as much as possible in his palm and held it up to Horus' face.

Horus opened his mouth to suck the cum from Rodney's hand and Rodney moaned at the feeling of Horus' hot mouth on his fingers. It didn't take long of Horus sucking on his fingers for Rodney to follow him over and cum deep in Horus' body.

Rodney held Horus close as he came down from the high of his orgasm before he let him go reluctantly and pulled out. He collapsed next to Horus on the bed to catch his breath and laughed lightly.

"You've changed," he said softly.

"Hm?" Horus asked.

"You. You're… more open. More relaxed," Rodney explained.

"A good dicking will do that," Horus answered.

"No before even. You actually approached us both and fucked us. You said you needed time," Rodney pointed out. "We will still give you that."

"I guess I just decided… to make this life mine," Horus admitted. "There isn't a way back. And even if there was, there's nothing for me. Not really. The Hideaway was home and family but… I can rebuild that. I can gather them again, free them again. Befriend them again. They may not remember me but… they are still here. And now… so are you and Elwin. And Hanna. I can save the ones that didn't make it last time. And that makes it even better."

Rodney watched him as he spoke and kissed him softly when he finished. "We'll help you get them back together."

"I know," Horus admitted. "You didn't turn Mayra over. I think you're trustworthy."

"I'm glad you think so," Rodney soothed.

"Let's get you dressed, Lord Consort," Horus teased and sat up.

Rodney blanched.

Horus laughed. "Too late to back out now," he reminded. "You love him too much."

Rodney sighed. "That I do," he agreed and sat up to get off the bed.

Horus helped Rodney wipe down and then cleaned himself up and got redressed. Rodney looked quite handsome in his courtly attire and Horus helped him straighten it out and made sure it was wrinkle free. He smiled at Rodney and opened the door to the sitting area. Hanna had not come back with Gav yet and Horus glanced out the door to see the guards still there.

"Can I leave you to join the honor guard or are you a flight risk?" Horus teased Rodney as he turned back around and saw him pick through a plate of sausages from breakfast.

"I'm not a flight risk," Rodney responded. "I think the guards are here to keep me here as much as to keep me safe."

"Oh so you heard Hanna too," Horus teased.

Rodney laughed. "I didn't need to," he admitted.

Horus laughed with him for a moment before his hand found the doorknob again. Rodney kissed him heatedly before he could open the door.

"Thank you," he said softly.

"Thank you," Horus responded. He pecked Rodney's lips once more and left. He ignored the guards' knowing smirks and chuckled lightly as Rodney called them to attention in response.

He had to hurry. The ceremony was going to arrive quicker than they expected.

Chapter Text

Horus arrived at the vestibule where the selected honor guard was gathered and slipped inside. Tyler was giving a speech about how honored they should all feel at having been selected for such a prestigious role and the history of their position in the ceremony. Horus had heard it already. Tyler had practiced in front of both Wade and Horus in the last few days. He tried to focus on the speech again as he saw Wade shooting him smug grins if only to avoid what he knew would be good natured teasing. Tyler finished his speech and the rest of the honor guard dispersed in the vestibule to mingle.

"So," Tyler said as he joined Wade in approaching Horus. "I see you were late."

"Elwin and Rodney had some pre-wedding nerves to settle," Horus admitted and ignored the looks from those nearby that heard him call them by name.

"And did you settle them?" Wade asked lasciviously.

"Wouldn't you like to know," Horus countered.

"They are doing well now?" Tyler asked.

"They were when I left them," Horus assured.

"Good," Tyler said. "I've spoken to the castle guards and they've had no issues so far today. The city guard checked in and there have been a few altercations due to people celebrating a little too hard but nothing they haven't been able to handle easily."

"Good," Horus said. He couldn't stop his stomach from being a bundle of nerves though. He felt like something was coming and he hated not knowing what it would be.

"Everything alright?" Tyler asked quietly.

"I guess maybe the nerves are catching," Horus admitted. "I can't help but feel like something is going to happen. And not a good something."

"We've tripled the city guard and they've been doing extra training. Same with the castle guard," Tyler reminded. "We're prepared for trouble."

"What about double?" Horus muttered, rubbing his forehead as if in pain.

"Even triple," Tyler assured.

"I hope you're right," Horus said.

"Don't go inviting trouble," Wade said. "It'll go off just fine. The only hitch will be them getting married."

Horus nodded and then glanced to the side as Hanna entered.

"Everyone ready?" Hanna asked. "Everyone else is seated and they are eager to get started."

"I bet," Horus heard someone mutter and felt like glaring at them. Yeah Tyler, Wade, Hanna, Byron, and Horus could tease them about their eagerness but they knew Elwin and Rodney. These clingers-on didn't get to say such things.

Horus looked down as he caught Hanna smirking at him. Did everyone have to know what was going on?

"Alright, you heard the Lady," Tyler announced loudly. "Places everyone."

Horus sighed and joined everyone in their push out to the foyer. He caught sight of Gav and Clive and Joshua and Jill. Even Torgal and Hati were there with their fur nicely washed and brushed.

"Uncle Horus," Gav whisper-shouted and waved giddily.

Horus smiled widely and waved back at him. He walked over to give Gav a one-armed hug and whispered into his ear.

"You look very handsome," Horus said. "You have the ring safe?"

"Yes, Sir," Gav agreed.

"Good," Horus praised. "Let's get these two married."

Gav nodded eagerly and Horus left his side to join Tyler at the front as the honor guard lined up in two parallel lines. Tyler shot him an amused side eye from beside him while they waited to open the main doors.

"You know," Tyler said softly, "seeing you overprotective is amusing."

Horus shot him a confused look and Tyler elaborated.

"You scowled when Sir Henry scoffed about their eagerness.," Tyler explained. "It's nice… seeing someone be protective of them. Even if they don't need it."

Horus scowled ahead of him and heard Tyler laugh from beside him. He saw Tyler nod to the guards on the door and decided to speak up before the doors opened.

"Everyone needs it sometimes," Horus pointed out. "Or there'd be no use in guardsmen."

Tyler shot him a stunned look as the doors opened and then straightened to help lead the honor guard into the throne room. Horus strode at Tyler's side to the foot of the dais and made the snapping turn left away from Tyler with the half of the guard behind him, took the practiced three steps before the about-face to the center aisle. They all drew their ceremonial swords, saluted, and then held their swords up to cross above the center aisle and leaving room for the wedding party to pass underneath.

Horus tried to stay politely serious as Joshua and Byron passed followed by Clive and then Gav. Hati was next with a basket of flowers that Jill was pulling from and strewing the rose petals along the aisle. Even Mayra was assisting from her arms, if her little flailing arms tossing petals could be considered assisting. Torgal trotted at their heels and Horus bit back a smile as a petal landed on his head and he shook it off.

The crowd stood as Elwin arrived in the doorway and strode down the aisle. Horus almost smirked as he passed and met his eye. If he didn't know better, Horus would be hard pressed to notice the hitch in his steps from the plug. When Elwin reached the top of the dais and turned, the few musicians at the back of the room were given a nod and began the Rosarian wedding anthem. Horus tried not to scowl as he remembered Hanna humming it whenever he and Elwin and Rodney were in the same room. Horus cast his gaze up towards Elwin and caught sight of the utterly besotted look on Elwin's face as Rodney arrived in the doorway and made his way up to the front of the room as well.

After Rodney passed and the wedding party was assembled, the honor guard lowered their swords, made an abrupt turn to face the front and saluted smartly before coming to attention for the ceremony to begin.

Horus watched the kids as they tried so hard to stay serious but Horus could see the nervous and giddy fidgeting as Joshua stepped forward and began to speak.

"Today we gather together for joyous celebration. It is my honor as the Phoenix to join my father, Archduke Elwin Rosfield with the love of his life, Lord Commander Rodney Murdoch. As I'm sure comes as no surprise, I have known the two of them my whole life, and I quickly realized the love and affection they shared. The former Anabella was a marriage of State and necessity. While I have no doubts that both my father and Lord Murdoch would never begrudge my brother and I our lives, it brings me the utmost joy to now give to them the marriage they should have always had. My father, our family, our duchy deserve the happiness and loyalty that these two men have shown to Rosaria and to each other in the many long years and in the wake of the betrayal of the former Anabella. We will not allow such a stain to darken our lives, our futures, or our happiness any longer," Joshua paused for the applause of the room to die down and Horus saw the proud smile on Elwin's face as he glanced away from Rodney for a moment to his young heir.

"I am sure they are eager to be wed officially so let us begin," Joshua smiled and the room chuckled. "Please present the rings," he said. Horus watched as both Clive and Gav approached from behind their respective grooms to hand over the rings. They were simple, relatively speaking, bands with the Rosarian crest engraved in them on the top and their initials on the inside. Horus shot Gav a small smile as he retook his place behind Rodney.

"Do you, Elwin Rosfield, take Rodney Murdoch to be yours in all ways? To love and cherish? To protect and keep all your days?"

"I do," Elwin agreed solemnly.

"Do you, Rodney Murdoch, take Elwin Rosfield to be yours in all ways? To love and cherish? To protect and keep all your days?" Joshua repeated turning to Rodney.

"I do," Rodney agreed.

"Finally," Horus heard Byron mutter and bit back a laugh at his disgruntled tone.

"The grooms have written additional vows they wish to recite," Joshua continued after elbowing his uncle in the gut. "Father," Joshua added, handing the floor over to him.

"Rodney, you have been my most stalwart companion since childhood. You have stood behind and by my side in so many things. Even those you perhaps shouldn't have or that I would never have asked you to. I have known no better rock in my life than your steady support. You have defended Rosaria and trained her Shields with a loyalty and strength I have found in few others. I can see myself trusting no one as much as I trust you with both the Duchy and my sons," Elwin recited.

Horus had to fight back the inexplicable tears at just how Elwin looked at Rodney right now. Both dressed in their finest, both looking at each other like nothing else mattered. Announcing finally in front of everyone that they loved each other, they trusted each other, they had nothing but respect for not only the other but the things they each held dear.

Rodney looked like he was composing himself too for a moment and Horus was thankful Byron was assisting Joshua as he held him back for a moment and allowed a moment of silence for the words to sink into the crowd and Rodney to gather himself.

"Before the Phoenix, so shall it be," Joshua announced softly. "With the ring in your hand may your word be bound and vows unbroken. Place it upon Rodney's hand." Elwin did so and Rodney stared at his hand for a long moment.

"Uncle Rodney?" Joshua asked, giving him leave to speak his own vows.

Rodney swallowed and looked back up into Elwin's eyes. "Elwin, I have stood by you and supported you for as long as I remember. I have seen the sacrifices and the joys that Rosaria and your duty to its people and throne have taken and given to you. You have always placed the good of Rosaria in the forefront of your thoughts and placed the good of her people before even your own happiness. I am honored that you have seen me as worthy of your love and the trust of the Duchy. As you have placed your duty before yourself, I place you before myself. Your happiness, your needs, your wishes, I will see them met to the best of my ability. There is nothing that brings me greater joy than you, your family, and our people," Rodney announced.

Horus could see Elwin squeeze Rodney's fingers slightly where their hands were joined and felt his heart clench. All the things they had hidden for so many long years were being said out loud before the court and kingdom. It had to be both the most terrifying and the most relieved feeling in the world.

"Before the Phoenix, so shall it be," Joshua spoke finally. "With the ring in your hand may your word be bound and vows unbroken. Place it upon Elwin's hand."

Rodney did so and took the opportunity to kiss the ring as it sat on Elwin's hand.

"With the authority given to me by the people of Rosaria and the Blessing of the Phoenix, I announce you wed." Joshua had to pause for the applause.

When the applause died down, Joshua spoke again.

"Rodney, you have wed the Archduke of Rosaria and as such have taken the role of Lord Consort. Do you, Rodney Murdoch-Rosfield, swear to uphold the dignity and integrity of the throne of Rosaria?"

"I do so swear," Rodney announced.

"Do you swear to place the safety and wellbeing of Rosaria and her people above yourself?" Joshua asked.

"I do so swear," Rodney answered.

"Do you swear to be the Sword and Shield of the throne? To protect and to serve only until such time as the Phoenix is ready to lead?" Joshua finished.

"I do so swear," Rodney vowed.

"It is my honor to name you Lord Consort and my faith in your service shall ever be unshaken," Joshua announced.

Rodney finally looked away from Elwin and nodded at Joshua in acknowledgement.

"Your Graces, you may now seal your vows in love with a kiss," Joshua told them.

"Remember there are young eyes, though," Byron added.

Elwin huffed a laugh as he pulled Rodney into a soft kiss to loud applause.

"I present Their Graces, Lords Elwin and Rodney Murdoch-Rosfield," Joshua announced with a wide smile.

Elwin and Rodney turned to the crowd finally and Tyler and Horus led the honor guard in an abrupt turn toward the aisle. They saluted before raising their swords once again for Elwin and Rodney to walk under just the two of them side by side. Horus watched them pass by lost in each other, though Elwin cast a glance and a wink over to him when they were right in front of him. Horus fought a blush as much as possible. Poorly if Tyler's smirk was anything to go by.

Once Elwin and Rodney left the room, the honor guard lowered their swords and saluted before the rest of the wedding party left and the crowd began to filter out to the dining hall for the wedding feast.

Horus followed the rest of the honor guard toward the dining hall and waited in one of the rooms off to the side for Elwin and Rodney to reappear.

"Feeling left out?" Tyler asked him softly.

"What for?" Horus responded, confused.

"They're off likely getting frisky," Tyler pointed out.

"As they should. They're married. And didn't get to see each other since dinner last night," Horus answered.

Tyler studied him for a moment and then smiled slightly. He hummed slightly and looked away.

Horus watched him in confusion but Tyler didn't say anything else. Horus finally looked away and waited patiently for Elwin and Rodney. They would be escorting the newlyweds into the hall and then be dismissed to join the crowd to eat and be replaced with the second round of guards. He hoped they finished their canoodling quickly. He was getting hungry after earlier this morning.

Chapter Text

When Elwin and Rodney finally arrived, five minutes late, they were suspiciously put together. Horus sent them a suspicious glare as they walked in and approached Tyler, Wade, and himself.

"Are we ready?" Rodney asked.

"We've been waiting on you, Your Grace," Tyler answered and Rodney frowned at the address.

"Better get used to it, Rodney," Elwin teased.

"It's too late to turn back now," Horus pointed out.

Elwin laughed as Rodney glared at him. "Come on, Rod," he said, clapping him on the back and winking at Horus. He led the way to the door leading to to dining hall and the Shields gathered to precede them.

Horus felt a hand slip into his and squeeze as he passed by to take his spot with the Shields and he looked to the side to see Rodney give him a fond smile.

Horus shot him an exasperated smile and squeezed back before he continued on his way. He entered to see Byron and Hanna with the kids at the royal table and saw Gav waving eagerly at him as he filed in and he smiled at him before continuing to form the aisle for the newlyweds to walk to the head table and take their places.

The honor guard was dismissed to take their places for the feast before Elwin and Rodney sat and the food was served to the tables. Horus joined the rest of the royal family at the table and returned Gav's hug when he reached for him.

"You did marvelously," Horus praised. "All of you did."

"So did you," Gav answered.

"They look like they are conspiring," Hanna mentioned, glancing up at the head table which sat only the two newlyweds.

They did indeed look to be conspiring. Their heads were bent close together as they whispered to each other.

"I can fix that," Byron joked and started to bang on the table. "Kiss. Kiss. Kiss. Kiss," he chanted and the call was taken up by the increasingly drunk crowd until Elwin and Rodney glared at Byron and turned to each other to kiss softly.

A cheer went up from the crowd as their lips met and Horus saw them smile from where he was. The rest of the night passed with Horus watching the two and talking to Byron and Hanna as the kids wandered off after eating. They were joined by Tyler and Wade when the feast devolved into a more casual party. Elwin and Rodney stayed at the head table and took turns feeding each other and kissing when the crowd demanded it, and when they didn't. Finally Elwin and Rodney stood and the room went quiet as the two passed out of the room and left.

"You going to join them?" Tyler asked as they all watched the two leave. They had passed by their table and cast a pointed look at Horus.

Horus flushed. "Why are you all so concerned with whether I'm in bed with Elwin and Rodney?" He huffed.

"It's either that or think about the impending war," Tyler admitted.

"They invited me," Horus answered.

"That much was clear," Byron pointed out. "Are you going to?"

"I…" Horus started.

"Because you should probably go or risk them coming back and dragging you up there," Byron went on.

"They wouldn't…" Horus started and then cut himself off as Gav approached rubbing his eyes.

"Uncle Horus, is it rude to go to bed since they left too?" Gav asked.

"Tired, kiddo?" Horus asked.

"Aye," Gav nodded.

"Alright. Let's get you kids to bed," Horus said and shot the adults a glare as they hid their laughs in poorly concealed coughs. "Where are the others?"

Gav pointed to one of the verandas and Horus ushered him over and then all the kids, excluding Mayra who was staying with Marissa off the bed.

Once they were all abed, Horus stood in the hall, debating before he snuck toward the Archduke's quarters and paused outside. He looked around the hall and gazed back at his room. He could go to bed himself. He should go to bed himself. No one would truly blame him. But… he didn't really want to go to bed alone. He put his ear to the door and then leaned back to knock softly. The door swung open on warm firelight and lust heated faces.

Rodney stepped to the side, welcoming Horus into the room and waited until he had passed over the threshold before he reached for him and kissed him heatedly as he pressed him into the wall next to the door and let the door swing shut.

Horus groaned as Rodney kissed him like he wanted to devour him. He tilted his head to the side as Rodney left his lips to trail down his jawline and neck to the collar of the armour. He caught sight of Elwin standing near the fireplace with a goblet in his hands watching them heatedly. Horus reached out to him with one hand as he held Rodney in place with a hand tangled in his slicked hair.

Elwin smirked and set the goblet down on the table and approached, taking Horus' hand and nuzzling the gloved palm before tugging it off with his teeth and kissing the wrist and palm and fingers.

"Elwin," Horus sighed with a shiver. "Rodney," he added as Rodney bit down on the tendon in his neck lightly.

"We've been waiting for you," Elwin answered.

"I can see," Horus responded.

"We weren't sure you'd come," Rodney added.

"Neither was I," Horus admitted shamefully.

"We're glad you did," Rodney told him seriously as he pulled back to meet Horus' eye.

"So am I," Horus answered softly.

"Then, Horus, will you come to bed with us?" Elwin asked solemnly.

"You make it seem like one of your vows," Horus tried to joke but it fell short in the somberness of the moment.

"Not fully," Elwin assured. "But we do want this to be special and to mean something between the three of us. We won't demand your sole affections, no doubt that is impossible nor would we ask you to forgo other partners. But we do want this to be… serious and recurring between us. Does that make sense?"

"It does," Horus agreed.

"Knowing that, you can go to your own bed or you can come to ours. Will you come to bed with us?" Elwin asked again.

Horus hesitated a brief moment, considering. Did he want serious with these two? "Yes," he answered. "Take me to bed."

Rodney kissed him softly followed by Elwin and the two of them pulled him away from the wall and toward the door to their bedroom. He had made the commitment. While he could go back now, he realized… He didn't want to.

Chapter Text

Horus followed Elwin and Rodney into their bedroom and felt his breath catch at the way the other two looked at him as the door swung closed on the sitting room. It was hungry. Nearly feral. Maybe teasing them both today hadn't been a good idea.

It took all Horus had in him to stand his ground as Elwin approached and crowded him to kiss him, to devour him. The older man's fingers tangled in Horus' hair, holding him in place with a feeling of near desperation. Horus could feel Rodney moving behind him. Could hear the shuffling of fabric before Rodney's bare hands landed on Horus' bare shoulders.

The dress uniform was so impractical. But Horus sighed at the feel of Rodney's bare hands and Elwin's lips and someone's hands rubbing over his chest and clutching his waist. He tipped his head back to groan at the feel of someone's teeth on his neck and shivered at the deep growl of the other two men.

"You're going to leave a mark," Horus accused heatlessly.

"That a problem?" Elwin asked.

"Not sure how to explain it to Gav," Horus pointed out but didn't move away or try to stop Rodney from continuing to suck a bruise into his flesh.

"The same way we do," Elwin teased. "We had to fight off some goblin assassins."

Horus couldn't hold back his laugh. "Do a lot of making excuses?"

"Rodney's very territorial," Elwin joked and Rodney growled from Horus' neck with his flesh held between his teeth.

Horus shivered in want.

"Let's give him some other places to mark," Elwin suggested as his hands went confidently to the straps and buckles of Horus' dress uniform.

Horus sighed as the stuffy uniform fell away. He tried to return the favor but Rodney held his hands with tangled fingers as he kissed and sucked at each of Horus' digits.

The room was warm with the fire burning brightly nearby but Horus still felt chilled in the open air. Heat flooded his veins in lust as Elwin stepped back to admire his handiwork.

"Are you going to let Rodney open his present?" Horus asked heatedly.

"If you think he can be torn away from your lovely neck," Elwin teased.

"He better," Horus joked, tilting his head for Rodney as he said it. "It's your wedding night."

"But you're just so delicious," Rodney teased back as he licked up Horus' neck to his ear to nibble on the lobe.

"But if you don't open your present, none of us get to enjoy it," Horus pointed out. he could feel Rodney pout against the back of his jawline.

Rodney pressed a kiss to the skin behind Horus' ear before he leaned back, heavy hands landing on Horus' waist as he looked over to Elwin and smiled, lovestruck.

"So where is this present of yours?" he asked.

Elwin crooked his finger to beckon Rodney over to him.

Rodney squeezed Horus' waist gently as he stepped around him and over to Elwin who pulled him down for a kiss.

"I'm wearing it," Elwin whispered against his lips when they parted.

"Oh are you?" Rodney asked. "Then I'd best unwrap you."

Horus smiled as he watched them and made his way over to the bed to sit on the edge and take his boots off.

Rodney's hands unerringly found every buckle and kissed every inch of skin revealed as he stripped Elwin of the surcoat and mail. When Elwin was in his undershirt and drawers, Rodney's hands inched under and he paused as his fingers felt the lace of the top.

"What's this?" he asked, amused and lifted Elwin's shirt over his head. Rodney's eyes went wide as he caught sight of the red lace wrapping around Elwin's torso and barely covering his hard nipples.

"There's more," Elwin encouraged as Rodney's fingered the lace covering the trail of hair leading down Elwin's belly.

"Is there?" Rodney teased and glanced amusedly over at Horus who nodded seriously. Rodney dipped his hands under the waist of the trousers and pushed them down.

Elwin was hard, red head of his cock peeking out of the top of the barely-there lace and leaking.

Rodney's hands went to the thin string holding the lace up around Elwin's waist and plucked it. "Dolled yourself up for me, huh?"

"Horus dolled me up after fucking my brains out," Elwin admitted.

Rodney hummed heatedly and pulled Elwin closer with his hands wrapping behind to palm his ass.

"There's one more part to it," Elwin told him, rocking forward to rub his cock against Rodney's clothed thigh and guiding Rodney's hands closer to his crack, held spread by the base of the plug Horus had put in him.

"You little slut," Rodney accused fondly. "Were you wearing this all day?" He toyed with the base, twisting it and pressing on it and causing Elwin to press back into his hands.

"I was," Elwin admitted. "I am also full of our Horus' cum. So fucking full," Elwin teased. "Think you can fill me more? He told me I wasn't allowed to cum without you today."

Rodney didn't answer except to lean forward to kiss him heatedly. "He told me he ordered you to be a good boy for him and to wait," Rodney admitted. "While I was fucking him," he added. "He told me I'd have to wait to have him fuck me until tonight."

"Bossy thing isn't he?" Elwin joked, shooting Horus a teasing wink where he was lounging back on the bed, watching them.

"You like it," Rodney accused gently.

"So do you," Elwin responded.

"I do," Rodney agreed unashamedly, turning to Horus and looking him over hungrily.

Horus let go of his cock he had been stroking idly and leaned back on the bed. "I can be bossy," he agreed. "Like telling you two to get over here and get naked."

Elwin laughed. "As you wish," he teased as he started on the lace. "But," he paused. "We did say Rodney would want to tear this off of me."

"I would very much enjoy that," Rodney agreed and reached for the delicate lace and pulled. The lace made a tearing noise as he ripped it to shreds until it was drifting to the ground.

"Elwin was right," Horus said. "That was quite a sight."

Rodney looked over at him and smiled. "At your service," he said.

"Not if you don't get those stuffy clothes off," Horus responded.

Elwin was already reaching for the buckles and throwing the clothes and mail onto the floor.

"Impatient, are we?" Rodney teased as he let himself be manipulated for each piece to come off.

"I would like to cum sometime before midnight on your cock. And I promise you are going to want to have that thing he calls a cock inside you as quickly as possible," Elwin told him.

"Far be it from me to argue with the Archduke," Rodney teased.

"To argue with your husband," Elwin reminded.

"Husband," Rodney repeated as if in awe and kissed him while backing him up to the bed. "You two get acquainted again while I finish what you started.

Elwin rolled his eyes but turned to Horus to kiss him messily. Rodney watched for a moment before he finished stripping off his boots and trousers. He took the time to pull off Elwin's while he was at it.

Horus let his hand drift to Elwin's side as they kissed and then down to wrap around his cock and stroke, thumb brushing over the leaking head. "You did behave for me," he said.

"What can I say, I like being good for handsome men," Elwin teased.

"Then let's get you your reward," Horus told him and rolled him onto his back and moved down, kissing a trail to Elwin's cock and taking it in his mouth.

Elwin groaned and tangled his hand in Horus' hair, not pushing just holding.

"You look like he's got a talented mouth," Rodney commented and climbed up next to them.

"He does," Elwin said and reached up with his other hand to pull Rodney into a kiss.

"While he's giving you your reward, think you can get me prepped for his cock?" Rodney asked.

"Definitely," Elwin agreed.

"Good," Rodney said and handed over the vial of oil and took up a position straddling Elwin's chest, facing down to watch Horus as he laved Elwin's cock and took it to the root. He moaned as Elwin's slick fingers ran over his hole and then teasingly dipped in before withdrawing.

Elwin took his time, teasing Rodney open one finger at a time. One plea for more at a time. He brushed over Rodney's prostate periodically, loving how it made Rodney tighten around his fingers and rock back toward him.

"You're so tight, Rod," Elwin said. "I need to fuck you more often. Or Horus does."

"Both," Rodney answered.

"We can do that," Elwin assured.

"Good," Rodney moaned.

"I think you're ready," Elwin admitted, four fingers deep.

"Hear that, Horus," Rodney said, brushing his fingers through Horus' hair. "I'm ready for you to fuck me."

Horus pulled off Elwin's cock with a pop and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

Rodney couldn't resist pulling him into a wet kiss and tasting Elwin on his tongue.

"Let's get you inside your husband," Horus said breathlessly when they separated, voice rough from the cock he had had in his throat.

Elwin groaned as Rodney climbed off of him and instead took a place between his thighs. He hiked Elwin up the bed and gripped the base of the toy. He rocked it in and out of Elwin slowly and Horus poured more oil on Elwin's balls, letting it drip down to his rim and slick the way for the plug to come out.

Elwin moaned as Rodney toyed with him until the toy was tossed to the side to clean later and was replaced with the head of Rodney's cock.

Rodney pushed in slowly until he was flush with Elwin's ass. "Always so tight, even after getting fucked and being plugged," he groaned and leaned over to be chest to chest with Elwin, one hand keeping Elwin's hips propped before he pulled a pillow into the place under his hips.

"Or your cock is just huge," Elwin accused.

"Both," Horus teased and took his place behind Rodney. He dragged the head of his cock over Rodney's stretched and shiny hole several times before pushing in. He went slow, letting the man who was not often on he receiving end get used to the feel again.

"Founder," Rodney moaned. "You're the one with the huge cock," he accused.

"Isn't it lovely?" Elwin asked.

"Fantastic," Rodney agreed. "I can't wait for him to fuck me with it. Hard," he said.

"I can do that," Horus agreed and slowly started to move. Each rocking motion in and out was slow and easy, testing the waters before he put more power behind each thrust in. He grabbed Rodney's hips and guided him into his rhythm within Elwin, making sure they were moving in synchronicity.

"Faster," Rodney begged, head hanging as he took in the sensation of being filled and filling. The wet squelch of his cock moving through the sloppy mess of Elwin's overflowing hole echoed, counterpointed with the similar sound of Horus in Rodney's own ass, dripping in oil.

Horus was not inclined to disobey and fucked into Rodney faster, hips snapping forward and pushing him into Elwin, both older men moaning at the force and speed.

"Fuck, Horus," Elwin moaned as Rodney 's cock hit his prostate. "Make him do that again."

Horus huffed a laugh as he grabbed Rodney's hips and angled him in just right to hit Elwin's prostate with every thrust. "That what you need, Your Grace?" He asked.

"Yes," Elwin moaned and then again as Rodney reached to grip his cock and stroked him in time. "Fuck. Fuck, I'm so close. Rodney, make me cum."

Rodney sped up his hand and thumbed at the head, rubbing the spot just behind the head and making Elwin cum without warning.

Elwin shook, body tensing as he was finally allowed to cum after a full day of teasing. Pulse after pulse of hot cum dribbled over Rodney's hand as he worked his new husband through his pleasure.

Horus slowed as Elwin came, unsure if he would want them to continue into his overstimulated body but Elwin moaned in disappointment at the slower pace.

"Please," Elwin begged, voice slurred in his ecstasy.

Horus started up again, thrusts fast and hard as Rodney finally let go of Elwin's cock and licked the spend from his hand. Horus reached forward and grabbed his hand, bringing it to his mouth for the last few drops and sucking the taste of Elwin from Rodney's fingers.

"Oh fuck," Rodney moaned.

"That's what I'm doing," Horus teased.

"And doing it well," Rodney answered. "I'm close. Fuck, so close."

"What do you need?" Horus asked. "What do you need to cum?"

"Pinch my nipple," Rodney told him.

Horus wrapped his arm around Rodney's chest and toyed with his nipples, flicking and then pinching it before tugging slightly. Elwin's hand joined his on the other side of Rodney's chest and it only took a handful more thrusts before Rodney was coming and filling Elwin with another load of spend.

"So tight when you come," Horus grunted, cock sliding more forcefully inside Rodney's clenching body.

"Give it to me," Rodney begged. "Fill me."

Horus kept up his sporadic thrusts before he came as Rodney was loosening again after his orgasm. "Fuck," he rested his head on the back of Rodney's shoulder.

"Yeah," Elwin agreed. "Come here," he said and tugged Horus down to kiss him over Rodney's shoulder.

"We are going to need a bath," Horus groaned.

"Tomorrow," Rodney laughed. "I think I could do with a kip right now."

Horus chuckled and pulled out of the older man and collapsed on to the side of the two newlyweds.

Rodney joined him, rolling to the other side after kissing Elwin and the three laid there, catching their breaths.

"You're going to stay, right?" Elwin asked. "The night?"

Horus looked over at him and smiled fondly. "I can stay," he agreed.

"Good," Elwin said and wrapped an arm under Horus to pull him into his side to kiss his sweaty temple.

Rodney rolled off the bed to grab a rag and wet it in the bowl of water set near the fireplace and wrung it out again. He walked over to clean Horus up first and then Elwin of the mess, saving himself for last. Once everyone was relatively clean again he urged the others under the covers and pulled Elwin and by extension Horus into his arms.

Horus rested his head on Elwin's shoulder opposite Rodney and then groaned as Elwin started to laugh.

"What's so funny?" Rodney groaned.

"I just realized I have a type," Elwin answered.

"Huh?" Horus asked.

"Blonde swordsmen with slicked hair and dashing scars," Elwin answered.

Horus rolled his eye and laid back down.

"Just ignore him," Rodney warned.

"I was going to," Horus answered.

Elwin huffed but didn't speak again and Horus was far too tired after the day to dwell on the fact that Elwin may have a type, but Horus was pretty sure he did to. Older men with kind hearts and a self-sacrificial sense of duty. Hopefully it turned out better this time than the last.

Chapter Text

Horus woke disoriented to the bed jostling as someone got out and an insistent knocking on the door. He cursed the comfort of the castle for a moment. He would have never taken so long to wake in the field or the Hideaway.

"Sire, the city is being attacked. We have to get you out of here," Horus heard a guard report from the doorway and was up in an instant.

"We'll be right there," Rodney responded, glancing back to see Horus and Elwin both climbing out of the bed. He nodded to the guard and shut the door to dress in privacy.

"Did they say who?" Horus asked as he redressed in the impractical dress uniform, sorely missing his old armor.

"No," Rodney answered.

"Horus, you take the children and Hanna and Marissa out the back way we showed you," Elwin ordered even as he fought with the belt of his trousers and reached for his usual armor.

"What about you two?" Horus asked.

"We will defend the castle," Elwin answered plainly.

Horus sighed. He should have known. He'd have figured dealing with Cid and Clive would have prepared him for men who put themselves on the front lines. Didn't make it any easier.

"We'll be careful," Elwin assured, kissing the frown from Horus' face.

"You'd better. I didn't save your life for it to end so soon," Horus warned.

Rodney huffed in amusement. "I'll keep him safe," he assured.

"And who will keep you safe?" Horus countered.

"I will," Elwin promised.

Horus rolled his eyes. "Just be careful. If my suspicions are right, it's the Iron Kingdom."

"I would not doubt it," Elwin agreed.

Horus straightened from putting his boots on and was pulled into a kiss by Rodney.

"You be careful too," Rodney warned.

"I will," Horus nodded.

They all shared a steadying look before they opened the door and strode out. Elwin was giving orders as soon as his foot crossed the threshold and Horus slipped down the hallway toward Gav's room.

Gav rushed him from the circle of kids as Horus made it to the end of the hall.

"Uncle Horus," Gav cried, throwing his arms around Horus' waist tightly.

"It's alright," Horus assured. "We're going to get all of you out of the castle and the city."

"And Father?" Joshua asked.

"He will defend your castle and people from here," Horus answered.

"But…" Joshua started.

"He is the Archduke in your place. It's his duty. Like Clive's duty is to stay by your side. And mine is to see all of you out through the catacombs," Horus said pointedly.

"His Grace will be fine. He and Rodney will look out for each other," Hanna assured.

Joshua nodded petulantly and didn't argue.

"Come on," Horus said and ushered the group away from the balcony and drew his sword to be prepared. "Did you all bring your swords?"he asked.

"Yes," Clive said from beside him.

"Good. Your job, first and foremost, is to run. Fight only as a last resort," Horus ordered.

Clive frowned but he nodded. The group was rushing through the halls and was making for one of the towers through a mezzanine overlooking the inner courtyard when they heard a crash and shouting from the floor below them.

They rushed to the railing to see Iron Blood streaming through a broken door while Elwin, Rodney, and their Shields retreated briefly.

"Father," Joshua shouted, leaning forward as Elwin took a blow to his side.

The older man stumbled and Horus, despite wanting to jump the railing and get him out, forced himself to pull Joshua and the kids away. They didn't want to go but Horus, with Hanna's help managed to get them moving again.

It was slow moving. All the kids were crying and looking back toward the courtyard as they heard Rodney let forth a warcry and order a charge. Horus watched nervously as they stumbled after him and down the stairs toward the outer wall.

Joshua fell to his knees, sobbing and Clive tried to pull him up but had to let go and fell backwards into the dirt as flames sprouted around Joshua.

"Joshua!" Horus shouted. "Joshua, stop." He sprinted towards Joshua but was thrown back when the flames engulfed him.

"Joshua," Horus heard Clive shouting before he saw him trying to make his way towards where the Phoenix was hopping unsteadily.

"Clive," Horus called. "Hanna, get Gav and Mayra out of here," he ordered, pushing her and Gav away.

"Uncle Horus," Gav protested.

"I have to look after the others, Gav. It'll be okay but you have to go with Lady Hanna," Horus told him, earnestly.

Gav kept looking back as Hanna nd Marissa pulled him along, the toddlers in their arms as they ran from the flames of the Phoenix.

"Shit," Horus muttered as he saw Clive on the ground, holding his head and Jill watching them both with wide, scared eyes and frost building around her feet.

"Jill," Horus called and tried to dart to her side, barely escaping the flames as Clive disappeared in a pillar of fire. The force of the flames threw him off balance for a moment but he reached Jill as Ifrit was shaking off the transformation.

"Jill," Horus said. "It's alright." He reached for her and flinched back at the painful cold of her shoulder.

"Horus?" Jill asked.

"I know. It's Shiva, Jill," horus said. "You're Shiva.' He glanced nervously behind him to see Ifrit and Phoenix in a stare off. "You can prime, Jill. And if you do, I need you to try to calm them down. I don't know if Clive is in his right mind right now."

"Clive?" Jill asked.

"The second Eikon," Horus explained. "I can't take them down, Jill. But you can. I know it's asking a lot. But Rosalith and the boys need you to be in control right now. Can you do that?"

"I-I can try," Jill said nervously.

"I believe in you," Horus said. "You know what to do. Just let it go."

Jill nodded and Horus glanced back at Ifrit who seemed to be confused as Phoenix let out a cry. Horus took several steps back and nodded at Jill.

The young girl closed her eyes and the frost seemed to get colder, to reach farther, crawling up her legs and spreading along the ground until she was encased in ice.

Horus hoped he hadn't just condemned the city with three Eikons loose in the castle. The ice exploded and Horus covered his face with his arm and looked up in awe. He hadn't ever seen Jill as Shiva. She was breathtaking. And she was staring at him with ice blue eyes. Horus swallowed and stepped back nervously. Shiva looked away and over at Phoenix and Ifrit who were staring at her.

It was only then that Horus noticed that the Phoenix's eyes were blue as well. But Ifrit's were a flaming orange. He didn't know what that meant but it couldn't be good. Phoenix let out a cry and Shiva tilted her head as Ifrit roared.

"Fuck" Horus said and turned to bolt the way Hanna had ushered Gav. He really hoped Jill was in control. And he really really hoped Rosalith and the castle survived this. He heard a roar behind him as he ran and then a clash as the Eikons, he didn't know which ones, collided. Shit. Shit.

Chapter Text

"Clive!" Horus yelled as he climbed over the debris outside Rosalith. "Jill! Joshua!" The sun was coming up through the cloud of dust and ash from the Eikon battle that had raged through the countryside. Jill and Joshua had led Ifrit away from the castle and city, thankfully. There was still a large amount of debris from the city walls and a portion of the castle they had been in was scorched but the majority of the damage was from the torn up countryside.

Shiva and Phoenix had led Ifrit toward the harbor and the Iron Blood invaders. All their ships had been destroyed and the embers still burned in the water. Horus had sought them out immediately, leaving the castle and Gav behind to follow the Eikon's footsteps. He didn't know what had happened to the rest of the Iron Blood or Shields or citizens or Rodney or Elwin or… He fought back a sob and went back to calling for the Dominants. He couldn't let any of them be taken or killed. He refused.

"Clive! Jill! Joshua!" Horus called again, fighting against the melting ice and ash turning to mud that tugged at his feet and threatened to sink him.

"Horus?" Joshua's voice called followed by coughing.

"Joshua," Horus yelled back, relieved. "Joshua, where are you?"

"Over here," Joshua said and coughed again.

Horus turned to the side to follow the sound of coughing.

"Joshua," Horus said, relieved as the sight of Joshua, muddy and disheveled and sitting in a large mud puddle came through the dust and ash.

"Horus," Joshua greeted. "What happened?"

"You primed," Horus explained, reaching Joshua's side and looking him over.

"Who were the other two?" Joshua asked.

"Shiva and Ifrit," Horus answered. "Jill. And Clive," he admitted.

"It was another fire Eikon," Joshua said amazed.

"It was," Horus agreed. "Can you stand?" he asked, reaching to try to bring Joshua to his feet.

"I think so," Joshua said and took Horus' hands to stand up. He stumbled in the mud but kept his feet. "Where are they? Where are we?"

"I don't know where they are," Horus admitted. "You and Shiva led both Ifrit and I on a merry chase across the countryside."

"You?" Joshua asked.

"I wasn't about to let you all out of my sight. We have to find Jill and Clive," Horus told him.

"Alright," Joshua agreed.

"Alright. If you need a break, let me know," Horus said as he looked Joshua over before heading off.

Horus led them through the fields, calling for Jill and Clive until a scream sounded. Horus burst into a sprint, Joshua following him toward the sound of Jill. Horus growled as he caught sight of the backs of soldiers crowding what he had no doubts was Jill.

"Jill," he hollered and drew the Iron Blood's attention. "Come here."

He saw Jill dart a wide path around he soldiers and behind Horus to collide with Joshua.

"You two stay back," Horus ordered as he engaged with the Iron Blood.

It was difficult to take the Iron Blood down at the best of times but when he was concerned with keeping Jill and Joshua safely out of their reach, it became even more difficult. Thankfully, Horus was feeling just as bloodthirsty as the insurgents. He was coated in blood when the last soldier fell and he turned looking for Jill and Joshua nervously.

"H-Horus?" Jill asked.

"Jill, are you alright?" Horus asked, looking over her for injuries.

"I'm alright," Jill assured. "Are you?"

"I'm fine," Horus answered.

"You're covered in blood," Jill pointed out.

Horus looked down and grimaced. "It's not mine. Don't worry. Let's find Clive and then we can rest before heading back toward Rosalith."

"I think the other Eikon was over that direction," Jill said pointing off into the distance.

"Let's head that way then," Horus said.

"We really destroyed a lot, didn't we?" Joshua asked, eyeing the scorched earth and shards of ice piercing the ground.

"Eikons are very powerful, Joshua," Horus said. "There is a reason they are used so much in war."

"Did we kill a lot of people?" Joshua asked,

"Whatever damage you did, you did to protect your people," Horus said. "Ifrit was out of control. You had to take him down. And you led him away from the city. You did well."

"It doesn't feel like it," Joshua said.

"I know," Horus said.

"Do you think Clive is alright?" Jill asked.

"I'm sure he's fine. But I'd rather find him quickly," Horus assured.

Jill nodded.

"Clive!" Jill yelled.

"Clive!" Joshua joined in.

Horus smiled grimly as they walked and the kids called for Clive. Horus kept darting his gaze around them, looking for any sign of Clive. There was a groan from a pile of burnt bushes and Horus rushed to the side, pulling the blackened brush from off the figure in the mud.

"Clive," Horus called, dropping to his knees to examine the young Marquess. He turned Clive over to his back and sighed as he heard Clive exhale heavily.

"Clive," Joshua cried as Clive remained unresponsive. "Did we kill him?" He asked, sniffling.

"No, Joshua," Horus assured. "He's still alive. Just worn out. We need to get him back to the castle."

"There is still a castle, isn't there?" Jill asked.

"There is still a castle. I'm not sure what's happening in the capitol as I've been looking for all of you. So let's head back," Horus said and lifted Clive to drape him over his back to carry him back toward Rosalith.

"But he's going to be alright?" Joshua asked worriedly, trotting at Horus' side.

"He's going to be fine," Horus assured. "I promise. We'll help him be alright. Right?"

"Yes," Joshua agreed and Jill nodded along with him.

They continued walking toward the smoke drifting into the sky from the direction of the city. Horus hadn't realized how far they had travelled in their fight until the sun was high in the sky and they heard the sound of approaching chocobos. Horus herded the kids off to the side and down a slight slope and out of sight. There was no telling who was approaching.

The chocobos were almost past them, running at speed when Horus called out and darted out of the brush and toward the flock.

"Rodney!" Horus called and saw the flock come to a halt and turn towards them.

"Horus!" Rodney called. "Where are… oh thank the Founder," he corrected himself as he caught sight of Joshua, Jill, and Clive. He jumped from the saddle as he caught sight of Clive.

"He's fine," Horus assured as Rodney looked Clive over from over his shoulder. "Just exhausted I think."

"And you?" Rodney asked intently, meeting Horus' eyes.

"I'm fine," Horus said, confused.

"They said you ran out after the Eikons," Rodney explained.

"Someone had to fetch them when they unprimed," Horus defended. "How's… How's Elwin?" he asked quietly.

"Alive," Rodney answered, relieved. "His Grace is worried about the kids but he's alive. Fighting the bedrest from the healers."

"Father's alive?" Joshua asked.

"Yes, he is," Rodney promised. "He sent me out to fetch you safely back to the castle."

"Is that what the cart is for?" Horus asked as he eyed the cart making its way slower toward them.

"We… didn't know what state you all would be in," Rodney answered.

"Let's get Clive settled and you can all ride back. It's been a long night," Rodney said.

Horus nodded and settled Clive into the cart with a blanket rolled up under his head and helped Joshua and Jill climb up with him.

"You too, Horus," Rodney said when Horus went to close up the cart.

Horus shot him a look and subsided at the look on Rodney's face. "Aye," Horus agreed and climbed up.

Rodney squeezed his shoulder as he did so and closed them safely into the cart.

Horus sat leaning against the side of the cart and watched Clive's chest rise and fall until, between one breath and the next, he fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Horus woke with a jolt as the cart came to a halt in the castle courtyard and he heard Gav's scared voice yelling his name. He looked around to see Gav sprinting down the stairs of the castle, Hanna behind him trying to slow him down.

"Uncle Horus," Gav shouted.

Horus jumped out of the cart and crouched to catch Gav as he threw himself at the older man.

"Gav," Horus soothed as the boy clung to him, crying. "It's alright, Gav. I'm here. We're alright."

"You left," Gav accused.

"I know. I'm sorry. I had to make sure the others were safe. We have to look after our friends, don't we?" Horus asked, wiping Gav's tears away.

"Are they alright?" Gav asked, nodding.

"They'll be okay," Horus promised. He stood up to look into the cart to see Jill and Joshua rubbing their eyes as they sat up. They had to have fallen asleep as well. Horus reached down and lifted Gav up so he could see over the high sides of the cart. "We need to get them inside and cleaned up and get them some sleep but they'll be fine."

"Why isn't Clive waking up?" Gav asked.

"He's really tired. I promise, he's going to be alright," Horus swore. He'd make sure of it.

"Okay," Gav agreed reluctantly.

"Let's get them all inside," Rodney suggested. "Can you go ask the staff to get some baths drawn for Joshua and Jill?" he asked Gav.

Gav nodded and took off back into the castle after a tight squeeze around Horus' waist.

"Elwin's been a nervous wreck since you left," Hanna told Rodney.

"Elwin's been a nervous wreck since last night," Rodney corrected.

"Yes, but he's been fighting the bed rest more than usual," Hanna admitted.

"Let's get the kids to him so he can at least see that they are alive and well," Rodney said.

"I'll get Clive if you can get Jill and Joshua," Horus said. "I'm not sure they'll make it up the steps on their own."

"You might be right," Rodney said, eyeing the dozing children in the cart.

"Lord Murdoch," Tyler greeted, joining them from the castle steps. "Let me get one of them."

"Thank you, Tyler," Rodney said as Horus reached in to to pull Clive onto his back again.

"Lady Warrick, please allow me to carry you inside. You must be exhausted," Tyler offered as Jill sat rubbing her eyes on the edge of the cart.

She blinked up at him and then nodded, resigned to the truth of her exhaustion.

"Here, Joshua," Rodney offered, crouching slightly so Joshua could climb on his back.

"Thanks, Uncle Rodney," Joshua mumbled as he held on to Rodney's neck.

"Thank you, Sir Tyler," Jill echoed.

"My honor, My Lady," Tyler assured, letting her climb on his back and then following Rodney up the stairs and into the castle. Horus followed as well and they climbed the stairs to the royal wing slowly to not drop their precious cargo.

"Your Grace, Sit. Down," the voice of the castle physicker echoed from the open door to the Archduke's room.

Hanna sighed and rushed forward as Rodney shook his head exasperatedly.

"Why does that not surprise me?" Horus asked, amused.

"Because you know him better than most of the populace," Tyler told him.

"I want to see my children," Elwin was heard stating.

"We are bringing them to you, Elwin," Hanna said. "Now get back in bed."

"Hanna," Elwin called.

"Stubborn man," Hanna accused just as Rodney walked through the door.

"Rodney," Elwin said, ignoring Hanna. "Joshua."

"They're fine, El. Just tired," Rodney assured.

"I'll be the judge of that," the physicker said.

Horus hesitated before he set Clive down on the bed next to where Elwin was reluctantly climbing back under the covers. He was shirtless and Horus could see the wrapping around his torso that spoke to an injury somewhere on his body.

Tyler helped Jill slide off his back and onto the bed alongside Joshua and Rodney before nodding to Elwin and taking his leave, moving to close the door behind him. He stopped and stepped out of the way for Gav to dart in and to Horus' side.

"Why is Clive still asleep?" Elwin demanded, watching worriedly as his eldest laid collapsed on the mattress.

"I would suspect it took more out of him from not being in control of his Eikon," Horus posited.

"And you would know this, how?" the physicker asked snootily.

"Get out," Elwin ordered seriously.

"Your Grace," the physicker protested.

"Now. Get out of my castle," Elwin commanded again and sat up and then winced, grabbing his side.

"I…" the physicker tried to protest but Rodney was marching him to the door and threw him out.

"You do realize you need a healer," Hanna pointed out blandly.

"Not from him," Elwin grumbled.

"I'll find you a physicker if you'll excuse me to the city proper," Horus offered.

"Oh?" Elwin asked.

Horus nodded seriously.

"Go then. And come back quickly," Elwin told him.

Horus nodded and gave Gav a hug, whispering in his ear. "Keep an eye on them. They need rest."

Horus nodded once more to Elwin and Rodney before he left the room with a quickened stride. He jogged lightly down the hallway and toward the servants quarters. He had been making overtures with the Bearers in the castle, easier with news of Mayra's status, and trying to gather information on the Bearers in the city. The rest of the world may treat Bearers like idiots or animals but Gav knew better. What he had gathered of a talented healer Bearer and Tarja's, admittedly limited discussions, of her life before the Hideaway had him scouring the city for news of her.

She had worked the front lines of battles. She had been a healing Bearer. She had been in Rosaria. And where would you find a healer that was on the front lines? Rosalith and the soldiers barracks. Especially before the occupation and with the attack by the Iron Kingdom last night.

Horus rushed through the streets trying not to run but rushing as much as he could. His heart almost stopped when he caught sight of filthy red hair and the telltale white light of healing. He stepped forward hesitantly, almost dazed. He swallowed as the light faded and the Bearer turned to him, eyes blank and yet so recognizable.

The Bearer turned to him and studied him, looking for injury before turning away.

"Tarja," Horus called and the Bearer turned back suspiciously. "Tarja, I need help."

"Do I… know you?" Tarja asked hesitantly.

"You!" An angry voice called out and Tarja flinched.

Horus frowned and glared as he turned toward the angry voice.

"What are you doing with my Branded?" the voice, a portly man with an unkempt beard that was marching towards them, demanded.

"She's needed at the castle," Horus stated imperiously, trying to channel what he had seen of Rodney and Elwin's behavior towards the more obnoxious nobles.

"What would my Branded be needed at the castle for?" the man scoffed. "And who do you think you are?"

"Lord Raiden," Horus answered. His attempt at haughtiness seemed to work for the man while he could see Tarja holding in an eye roll. He had seen it often enough.

"Uh… L-Lord Raiden," the man stuttered. "That still doesn't…"

"All Bearers belong to the duchy regardless of owner. I'll be taking her to the castle as instructed by Their Graces Elwin and Rodney Murdoch-Rosfield. Unless you want to explain to them that you believed your claim outranked their own," Horus went on. He had no idea where this attitude was coming from, only the sheer desperation to have Tarja seeing to his family.

"O-Of course not," the man sputtered in protest.

"Good," Horus said simply and grabbed hold of Tarja's arm and turning away unconcernedly. "You will not be receiving her back. Find a new Bearer." He guided Tarja away with a steady but not bruising grip on her arm until they got closer to the castle, her owner following until they reached the castle gates. Horus was welcomed in through the hastily repaired gate while the Shields held the other man back.

"Horus," Wade called as he caught sight of them entering from where he was working. "Everything alright?" he asked.

"Keep that man far away," Horus said gesturing back to the gate and the scene the man was making. "I uh… may have stolen his Bearer. Elwin fired the castle physicker. She'll be taking over."

"She will?" Wade asked. "She will," he agreed, nodding at Horus' serious look. "I'll see he's sent away. Best get her to the royals. And then to a bath," Wade suggested lowly.

Horus nodded and was already guiding Tarja away with his hand moving from her arm to her back.

"Why am I here?" Tarja hissed as they entered the quieter corridors of the castle and the Shields were not within hearing range.

"His Grace has been injured. I want you to look at it. And the three young Lords and Lady primed last night. All three of them. They need to be examined for injury as well. I trust no one else with this. Your reputation among the Bearers is without match," Horus answered. He was only partly lying. The Bearers spoke highly of her but her knowledge was still being gained. She would get it best here. He'd see her trained.

"Uh huh," Tarja answered suspiciously. "I'll do what I can but I am not trained as a physicker."

"Then we'll get you whatever training you need or want," Horus assured. "But for now, you need to see the Archduke."

"Alright," Tarja agreed hesitantly and followed him up the stairs and toward the Archduke's room. Horus paused with his hand on the doorknob. He hoped this didn't backfire. But he was not above admitting it. He was scared. And Tarja gave him strength. He didn't trust anyone else nearly as much as he trusted her with his family's physical well-being. He needed her. Even if she didn't know who he was.

Chapter Text

"Are you going to open it?" Tarja asked, confused as Horus paused.

Horus swallowed and nodded with a tense smile before he turned the doorknob and the door swung open. Lady Hanna was in the sitting room with a clean Jill and Joshua as well as Gav and Mayra.

"Horus," Hanna greeted. "Is this the physicker you said you knew?"

"This is Tarja," Horus introduced. "She's the best healer in the city."

"You seem awfully confident for a man I just met," Tarja said lowly.

"You're reputation precedes you," Horus justified stumbling over his words slightly.

Tarja nodded doubtfully.

Hanna smiled at her welcomingly. "Welcome to Rosalith Castle," she greeted. "I'm Hanna. This is Joshua, Jill, Gav, and Mayra. Elwin, Rodney and Clive are in the bedroom. I think His Grace is about to have a conniption if Clive doesn't wake up soon. You should probably take a look at them both."

"Both?" Tarja asked.

"Elwin was injured last night before the kids primed," Horus explained.

"I see," Tarja said. "Show me the patients I guess."

"This way," Horus said and gestured with his head toward the bedroom before leading her over to the open door. "Elwin, Rodney," he greeted sticking his head through the door. "I brought the physicker. Tarja," he introduced as they entered.

Elwin looked up from where he was wiping dirt from off Clive's face with a wet rag. "Horus," he greeted. "Tarja, it's a pleasure to meet you. I need you to take a look at my son."

"Both of them," Rodney corrected pointedly. "Elwin needs looked over too."

Elwin frowned but he didn't argue.

"Of course, Your Graces," Tarja said, eyes downcast and approached the bed.

Horus, and the others, watched as Tarja went through her examination. It was bittersweet. She was here but it wasn't his Tarja. Like Clive, there were echoes of the woman she would be, the skills she would have. But she wasn't there yet. Horus looked at her and all he saw was a ghost.

"He's tired. When did he unprime?" Tarja asked, tersely.

"Early this morning. Only about an hour before sunrise," Horus answered.

"And it's about noon now," Tarja said distractedly. "Give him some thin broth and if he doesn't wake in another two hours, call me back. And now to you, Your Grace."

"I'm fine," Elwin protested even as he winced while sitting up.

"Yes. So very fine," Tarja answered sarcastically.

"I like her," Rodney told Horus amusedly as she fought with Elwin to get the bandages off and take a look.

Elwin glared at him for that as the bandages were unwound and his injury was on display.

Horus felt his breath catch. The wound looked deep. A slice across his upper ribs under his left arm. It had been stitched in neat straight lines but it was still red and ugly.

Tarja leaned close, her hands landing gently on Elwin's skin and causing him to hiss. "It's stitched well. I can make a potion for the pain, Your Grace."

"I haven't seen any errmonea around here. Is there another herb that will work?" Horus asked.

"What do you know about errmonea?" Tarja asked.

"I know it can be a heavy pain reliever," Horus mentioned.

"It can be," Tarja agreed. "I can check the apothecaries for any. Otherwise it grows on Hawk's Cry Cliff near Amber."

"I'll send some Shields out to gather some regardless," Rodney said. "We can keep it in the castle for when it's needed. See if we can grow some in the healer's garden here."

"You have a garden for healing?" Tarja asked.

"Of course," Rodney answered. "You can check there before the apothecaries. Have one of the Bearers in the kitchens show you. It's next to the herb garden."

"I will," Tarja said and turned to go. "Keep him in bed and nothing too strenuous. I'll check on the kids before I head to the gardens. Come get me if anything changes."

"I'll point you toward the kitchen and make sure a Shield can guide you there and back as well as making sure a bath is drawn for you in the castle physicker's rooms," Horus mentioned.

"Thank you," Tarja said sincerely. "For stealing me as well."

"Stealing you?" Elwin asked, amused.

"I may have taken her from her owner without his strict consent," Horus admitted. "Wade was making sure he didn't get into the castle. If you have to leave, take a Shield with you." He added toward her.

"Of course, Lord Raiden," Tarja answered.

Horus grimaced and Rodney and Elwin laughed at him.

"You pulled rank, didn't you?" Rodney asked.

"I hated it," Horus admitted and gestured toward the door with one wide flung arm.

Tarja exited as Horus glared back at the two loons still chuckling behind them.

"How do you three feel?" Tarja asked as she approached the kids in the sitting room.

"We're fine, Miss Tarja," Jill answered.

"Let me at least look you over," Tarja suggested.

"Do you need to?" Joshua asked.

"Priming can take an awful lot of aether," Tarja explained. "We want to make sure you both didn't spend too much too soon."

"Please let Miss Tarja look you over, Joshua," Gav asked.

Joshua deflated and nodded. Tarja sent Gav a secret smile and went over the two royals for injuries. There were some mild cuts and bruises that she promised to come back with a salve for but they were otherwise untouched.

Once she was done, Tarja gave a brief look at both Gav and Mayra as well to ensure they were doing well too and cooed over Mayra when she reached up to tug on Tarja's hair and touched her brand. Tarja was gentle as she guided Mayra's hand away from her cheek.

"Thank you, Tarja," Horus said as they exited the room.

"For?" Tarja asked, confused.

"Looking after them so well," Horus answered.

"I know we have never met, Lord Raiden," Tarja commented. "And yet you act as if you know me. Personally."

Horus smiled sadly. "Of course not, Lady Tarja. I'm just glad that there was a healer of your caliber that we can trust with them after the trouble they've gone through in the past few months. Elwin fired the last physicker this morning."

"I see," Tarja said doubtfully.

"The kitchens are down that hallway and through the second to last door on the left," Horus said, leaving her at the entrance to a back hallway. "I'm going to get back to the Rosfields and Gav. He was a bit angry with me this morning."

"I'll be back as soon as I can get that potion mixed up," Tarja said.

"Ask anyone in the castle for directions if you get lost," Horus told her. "I know I did."

Tarja nodded and watched as Horus turned and walked away, then shook her head.

Horus rejoined the Rosfields only to find Joshua and Jill curled at the foot of Elwin's bed, asleep and Gav sitting next to Rodney on the sofa that had been pulled into the room.

"Uncle Horus," Gav whisper shouted as he walked into the room.

"Gav," Horus greeted and moved over to sit with them and pulled Gav into his lap. "I'm sorry I ran off like that." he said softly into Gav's hair.

"I know you had to," Gav said. "But I was scared."

"I know you were. I wouldn't have left you if I hadn't known that Hanna and Marissa would look out for you, though," Horus promised.

"Promise?" Gav asked.

"Look at me," Horus said seriously and tilted Gav's face up to look him in the eye. "I promise."

"Okay," Gav said softly and tucked his head on Horus' shoulder and played with the straps on his dress uniform.

Horus hadn't had a chance to change yet from the wedding yesterday. He huffed a sigh. Was it really only last night they were all happy here? He propped his chin on Gav's head as Gav fell asleep resting against him.

"It's been ages since I've seen them like this," Elwin said softly, brushing hair off of Clive's forehead.

"Like how?" Horus echoed quietly.

"Peaceful," Elwin said. "Especially Clive." He sighed. "His… Anabella poisoned everything. He used to sleep with us when he was little. Before Joshua was born. Or when Anabella was out of the castle. When he was scared. As he got older, I guess I thought he got braver. I ignored what he was really afraid of… Her."

"It wasn't your fault, El," Rodney reminded softly.

"I didn't make her cruel. But I didn't do enough to stop her. I didn't want to cause a divided royal family for the duchy. It was my fault. For letting it go on so long," Elwin said.

"Maybe," Horus said. "But you did step up," he pointed out.

"When it was nearly too late," Elwin protested.

"But it isn't now," Horus reminded him. "You do better now. You can do better now."

"I don't know if I know how," Elwin admitted.

"You already are," Rodney told him.

Elwin smiled sadly and settled into the pillows again. "So, Tarja?" he asked, poorly changing the subject.

"She was the physicker at the Hideaway. I'll admit it. I was scared this morning. Last night. There is no one I would trust with the people I care about more than her," Horus said. "Even if she's not quite… her yet."

"She will be," Rodney said.

"I know. I can see it in her even now," Horus said. "She'll get there. And I can help her this time. I can be there for her when she cuts her Brand off."

"She what?" Rodney asked, shocked.

"She cut her own Brand off. Have to go deep enough to miss the ink. And she did it herself. She wasn't about to risk someone else on a risky procedure. It's why I know so much about errmonea. She needed it for the Cursebreakers. The other Branded who cut their Brands off to be soldiers for the cause," Horus said.

"She's unimaginably brave to do that," Rodney praised.

"She always was," Horus agreed. "She also knew how to handle Clive in the infirmary. Much like his father, he refused to be bedridden," he teased.

Elwin grumbled from his place in the pillows.

"He's got you there, El," Rodney agreed.

"Yeah… He'll see when you get injured next," Elwin warned.

"Let's not go borrowing trouble," Horus warned.

"Yeah," Elwin agreed. "I don't want my new husband injured. Or worse."

"And I will deal with my new husband injured and a baby," Rodney teased.

Elwin stuck his tongue out at Rodney, causing Horus to laugh.

"Don't threaten me with a good time, El. Your healer said no strenuous activities," Rodney warned.

"Indeed I did," Tarja agreed as she knocked on the door jamb.

The room turned toward her as she entered with a potion bottle. "It will make you woozy and sleepy but it'll help the pain." She handed over the potion and watched as Elwin sniffed it and then grimaced.

Elwin looked over at Rodney and deflated and swallowed the potion with a grimace and then reached for the goblet of water next to him.

"I asked the kitchen to send up some broth. They said it'll be up soon. I want you to try to get Clive to drink some and add these herbs to it before he drinks it," Tarja said.

"We will," Elwin assured as Tarja handed the packet of herbs to Rodney.

"Did anyone show you where the physicker's rooms are and draw you a bath?" Horus asked.

"The kitchen staff was working on it. I'll ask Sir Wade to show me. He and Sir Tyler stopped by to see how you are. I told them to let me see to you before they came in," Tarja told them.

"Thank you," Horus said.

"You are welcome, Lord Raiden," Tarja answered. "Come get me if anything changes."

"We will," Rodney assured.

"He will be a bit… out of it. If he looks like he's having trouble breathing, come get me. It can be a poor reaction but he seems to be fine right now so I don't expect any issues if they didn't arise already," Tarja said.

"We appreciate you, Miss Tarja," Rodney said.

"I'm the one now apparently living in a castle instead of the Branded pens or tucked into a corner of a hut. I should be thanking you," Tarja pointed out.

"We can call it even," Rodney assured her with a sad smile.

"Even then," Tarja agreed. She nodded her head before she left the room and sent Tyler and Wade in.

Tyler and Wade filled them in briefly about the reconstruction and how the Iron Kingdom was decimated with Shiva and Phoenix having destroyed their armada before leaving to the sitting room to join Hanna in sitting vigil on the young Marquess.

Horus watched Clive's chest rise and fall and Elwin fall asleep with Joshua and Jill curled between the two of them near the bottom of the bed. He wished he could have put this off for them. Could have made their childhood last longer. He wished a lot of things, really, watching the Rosfields sleep with Gav in his arms and Rodney eventually drifting off against his other shoulder. Too many things, really. He wondered if Clive wished this many things. Or Cid. He also wondered if it mattered.

Chapter Text

Horus heard a groan from the bed as he dozed softly and opened his eye. Clive was shifting on the bed as he woke up.

"Hey Clive," Horus whispered.

"Horus?" Clive asked as he blinked awake and sat up, as much as Joshua and Jill wrapped around his stomach and legs would let him.

"How do you feel?" Horus asked.

"Confused. Sore," Clive admitted.

"You primed last night," Horus explained.

"Primed?" Clive asked. "How? I'm… I'm not the Phoenix," he protested, panicked at the implication.

"Shh, Clive. I know. It's alright," Horus stood slowly and tilted Rodney's head onto the back of the sofa and set Gav down to walk over to the scared teen. He sat next to Clive and put a comforting hand on his chest. "Slow your breathing. It's alright. Let me explain."

Clive tried to listen, wide scared eyes meeting Horus'.

"Joshua primed as the Phoenix. And you primed as another fire Eikon. I know it should be impossible but it's true. Jill also primed as Shiva," Horus explained. "You all got into a very big fight that took you several hours outside the city limits. Jill and Joshua woke up as I was searching for you all but aside from some groans, this is the first sign of life we've seen from you. Everyone's been very worried."

"Did I hurt them?" Clive asked worriedly.

"No, they're fine," Horus assured pointing down towards the two sleeping kids.

Clive glanced down and frowned. Then he looked back up and around with more lucidity. "Where are we?"

"Your father's room," Horus answered. "He was adamant he keep an eye on you despite being on bedrest himself. And no one really wanted to leave you."

"He's wounded," Clive stated, looking over Elwin's sleeping face and the bandage back around his chest.

"He is. But he will be fine. It's just a bit painful. That's why Tarja gave him the pain potion. He's been sleeping it off since then," Horus said. "They all have been pretty exhausted. It was a long night."

"You said… you said I'm a Dominant?" Clive asked, looking up, scared again.

Horus placed a comforting hand on Clive's arm and squeezed lightly. "Yes. Ifrit. It's… complicated. And there's still things I don't know about him. But we'll be here for you as you figure out how to control him and what being a Dominant means for you."

"Ifrit," Clive echoed. "I-I think I can feel him. I always… I felt the fire before the Blessing of the Phoenix. I thought sometimes… hoped sometimes, that maybe the Phoenix was sleeping in me and he would wake up and she would love me again. I would never begrudge Joshua her love. I'd have had to… do something if she ever tried to treat him like she treated me. But I did hope sometimes. Before he was born. And after. If maybe the Phoenix could have two Dominants."

"The Phoenix didn't forsake you, Clive. He couldn't choose you. Because Ifrit already had," Horus explained. "That does not make you a failure. The only failure was her. She failed to be a mother, a real mother, to either of you."

"That doesn't make it easier," Clive admitted.

"No. No, it doesn't," Horus agreed and they lapsed into silence. "Do you think you can drink some broth?" Horus eventually asked.

"Yeah," Clive answered. "I feel… fine. I guess. Not hurt really. Just sore. Like after training too hard."

"That's good. I'm sure Tarja will want to look over you anyways. Try to be a better patient than your father," Horus joked.

Clive huffed a subdued chuckle. "Who's Tarja?" he asked as Horus went to stand up.

"The castle's new physicker. Your father fired the other one this morning," Horus told him. "I'll be right back," he squeezed Clive's arm and stood up to head to the sitting room.

"Horus?" Hanna asked as he entered the doorway of the sitting room.

"Hanna," Horus greeted and came forward to take a sleeping Mayra from her arms.

"Everything alright?" Hanna asked.

"Yeah," Horus assured. "Clive's awake and needs some broth. And we need to let Tarja know so she can give him a look over. I just needed to cuddle my niece first."

"You take her back in and keep Clive company. It doesn't sound like the others are awake or aware yet. And I'll see to getting Tarja and food up for all of you," Hanna told him.

"Thank you, Lady Hanna," Horus said sincerely. "You are a treasure among women."

"Don't go flattering me," Hanna warned. "Go on."

Horus pressed her arm in thanks and took Mayra back into the bedroom and found Clive sitting up, hand in Joshua's hair. His other looked tense next to his thigh under Jill's sleeping face.

"I'm sure she wouldn't mind," Horus said softly.

Clive looked up as if caught doing something wrong. "I-I don't want to give her the wrong idea," he admitted shamefully. "Everyone's going on about us marrying and… she's like my sister."

"You know… 'everyone' can be wrong," Horus pointed out. "Everyone, after all, sees Bearers as less than human. Everyone has no place in your relationship with anyone else. Whether it's romantic or not."

"Is it wrong to want what Father and Uncle Rodney have?" Clive asked nervously.

"No. Not at all. They have a very enviable and loyal and strong relationship that has withstood some horrible things," Horus assured.

"I meant… I don't think I want to be in a relationship with a woman," Clive admitted softly, cringing inward.

Horus stepped forward to sit on the edge of the bed next to Clive. "Clive, that's alright," he promised.

"I just keep thinking of her. I know Jill would never behave like that. Would never treat me like she treated Father or us. But…" Clive trailed off.

"I understand," Horus said gently. "It's scary. When the closest example of a wife and mother was that harpy, it's hard to think of what a good wife or mother would be like. It'd be like Lady Hanna," he added in a whisper.

"I won't pretend to speak for your father. It's not my place. But I bet he doesn't want to force you into a similar position as he was in. Do you have someone in mind that you do want?" Horus asked.

Clive went red but didn't answer.

"It's alright," Horus chuckled. "You don't need to tell me. Not until it becomes something and I need to remind them what happens if you cross the ones House Raiden values," he joked.

Clive smiled shyly. "Thanks, Uncle Horus," Clive said nervously.

Horus felt his chest clench. "I'm always here for you, Clive," he promised. "Should we wake this group and let them know you're alive and well?"

Clive nodded.

Horus cleared his throat with a smug smirk. "Clive!" He shouted and the room jumped, startled awake.

There was a clamor of confusion before Joshua shouted and threw himself at Clive, followed more sedately by Jill. Horus caught Elwin and Rodney smiling at him and they nodded thankfully at him. Horus smiled back shyly and then let turned to Clive who was being inundated with questions by Joshua.

"Alright, you lot, give him space to breathe," Tarja called as she entered with a tray of broth and bread. She was followed by a group of servants with other plates of food that they set on the table before the fireplace before leaving.

"Thank you, Miss Tarja," Hanna told her as she followed the servants in and joined the family.

Tarja nodded at her. "You must be Clive," she greeted Clive.

"I am. Miss Tarja?" Clive asked.

"Indeed," Tarja agreed. "Would you like me to make them leave or are you comfortable letting me check you over with them crowding you?"

Clive chuckled. "I'm alright," he answered.

"Alright," Tarja agreed. She gestured Joshua and Jill back with a shooing motion and they clamored over Clive. Jill stood to join Hanna at the foot of the bed while Joshua climbed over to sit nearly on top of Elwin.

Elwin placed a hand on Joshua's shoulder in fondness as they waited for Tarja to be done examining Clive.

"How do you feel?" Tarja asked as she checked Clive's limbs and felt for his heartbeat.

"Sore," Clive admitted. "Like I trained too hard. But I feel fine otherwise."

"That's to be expected. You used a lot of aether," Tarja said. "You seem fine. However, all three of you," she said and turned to include Joshua and Jill. "I am sure you are aware at least intellectually of the Crystal's Curse that affects Bearers. It affects Dominants as well. Just because you have a bigger well of aether to draw from, doesn't mean you are invincible. I cannot stop you from using your powers or from priming. I will tell you to be careful with it. Don't overdo it. And if you do, if you feel pain or tiredness that seems not normal, do not ignore it. You come to me immediately. Understood?"

"Yes, Miss Tarja," the kids agreed.

Tarja studied them all for a moment. "Very well. I will have the same talk with Lady Mayra when she's able to understand. Until then…"

"We'll discourage her from using it when she understands how to control it," Horus promised.

Tarja nodded in acceptance. "All of you need to eat. It's been a long day and it's nearly dinner. Then rest. The young Lords and Lady may go back to training tomorrow if they feel up to it. Your Grace, I have included another potion you may take it if you feel the need. I am making more so simply let the servants know if you need one and they can get one from me for you."

"Thank you, Miss Tarja," Elwin said sincerely.

Tarja nodded. "I will come back tomorrow to check on that wound. Otherwise, we simply need to keep it clean as it heals and let me know if anything changes."

"Of course," Elwin agreed.

"We will," Rodney agreed.

"Then I will take my leave for the evening," Tarja said and curtsied before leaving.

"I like her," Joshua announced as the door closed.

"She seems very nice and very knowledgeable," Elwin agreed.

"Time to eat, Your Graces," Hanna said and went to the table to add the herbs to Clive's broth.

"Come on," Horus said, and held his hand out for Joshua to help him climb out of the bed. "You can sit at the table to eat and then, if your father and brother don't mind, you can sit with them again."

"I can sit at…" Clive started.

"In bed," Hanna finished for him pointedly.

Clive deflated and took his broth with a grimace.

"You can sit with your old man, can't you?" Elwin asked.

Clive smiled shyly at him. "Yes, Father," he agreed. "Are you going to make me stay here tonight, too?"

"You can all sleep in your own rooms tonight," Elwin allowed.

"I want to sleep with Clive," Joshua protested as he made up a plate of dinner at the table.

Elwin sighed. "I am not going to know where you all sleep tonight, just do try to actually sleep."

"We will, Father," Joshua promised.

"And make sure that your brother doesn't mind you all piling in his bed," Rodney added.

Everyone looked to Clive.

Clive sighed and rolled his eyes. "You can stay with me," he consented.

"Sleep over!" Gav shouted.

"Sleep over?" Joshua asked.

"Sometimes Mum would kick us all out of the house and send me over to the neighbors to stay the night with their kids. We would stay up most of the night telling stories without their parents knowing," Gav answered a bit sadly.

"You know what else you can do?" Horus pointed out, trying to wipe the melancholy look from Gav's face. "You could, if you agree to pick it up in the morning, make a…"

"Blanket fort," Gav finished, happily.

"You may have to teach them how to make a good one," Horus warned.

"I will, Uncle Horus," Gav promised.

"I'm sure you will," Horus agreed.

Gav then went into describing what a blanket fort was and how to make one and what they would need to make it an awesome one.

As dinner wound down, Elwin excused the kids to head off to make their fort and insisted on a hug from each of them before they left since he would not be able to check on them before bed. Hanna took Mayra with her with a pointed look and a promise to see the little lady through the night.

That left Horus with Rodney and Elwin. He turned back to the bed to see Rodney sitting next to Elwin with a wide hand near the bandage as they kissed softly.

"Almost lost you," Rodney whispered.

"You didn't," Elwin reminded.

"I saw you fall," Rodney pointed out.

"We all saw you fall," Horus added.

The other two men looked at him in confusion.

"You don't think they primed for no reason, did you?" Horus asked. "We were on the veranda above you when we saw you go down. We ushered the kids away but they were all crying and Joshua lost control first. Clive tried to get to him but he was losing his own control. And Jill was turning the ground to frost as she watched them, wide-eyed and scared. You scared all of us," he pointed out as he sat on the other side of the bed, turned to face them.

"I didn't mean to," Elwin protested softly.

"We know," Rodney told him. "Doesn't mean we weren't scared."

"The important thing is, you are going to be alright," Horus pointed out. "We just have to do better to look out for each other."

"You going to look out for us?" Rodney teased.

"Someone obviously has to," Horus joked back.

"Good," Elwin said. "Means we can keep an eye on you too."

"I'm not the one laid up in bed," Horus pointed out.

"The eye would indicate you have been before," Elwin said.

"That was… extenuating circumstances. Titan was attacking the Hideaway. One of his followers got a lucky hit," Horus defended.

"And that Iron Kingdom soldier got lucky too," Elwin pointed out. "And the gigas that left the scar on Rod."

"Then we'll look out for each other," Horus agreed. "Wouldn't want to disappoint the children after all."

"Of course not," Elwin agreed and pulled Horus over across the bed to kiss him. "You can blame them all you want."

"Will you stay with us tonight?" Rodney asked.

"I can stay," Horus agreed. "I will go say goodnight to the kids though first."

"Alright. Come back quick," Elwin said. "And let me know how the fort building went."

"Definitely. Though I'm no artist," Horus told him.

"That's alright," Elwin assured.

"I'll be back," Horus said and kissed Elwin once again and then Rodney as he stood up to leave the room. "I'll also grab some other clothes. Your dress uniforms are really impractical."

"They are for ceremonial occasions. Not battle ready," Rodney pointed out.

"Maybe they should be both," Horus pointed out before he left the room. He smiled goofily as he walked through the sitting room and then the halls to his room to change his clothes into something more comfortable and casual. Maybe he was getting too close. But honestly, who else was he supposed to get close to? He didn't deserve to live in isolation. And neither Cid nor Clive would want that for him either.

He smiled sadly as he traced the line of his scar in the mirror. He didn't regret it. He had needed to save the crystal oath. It was important. More important than an eye. He finally turned away. He had to check on the kids and then… back to Elwin and Rodney. His chest felt fluttery as he thought of them. That was… unexpected.

Chapter Text

Horus poked his head around the door of Clive's room after knocking and laughed. The room was decked out in blankets and pillows piled high and stuck on any available surface. They had even made a nest on the floor of pillows and Gav was currently in the midst of introducing the royals to the finer points of a pillow fight.

Clive and Joshua both looked at the open doorway guiltily until Gav hit them in the face with a pillow thrown from nearby.

"Never take your eyes off a live opponent," Horus warned, laughing.

Clive smacked Gav in the face with a pillow without looking in his direction as he answered. "I'll keep it in mind."

"Where's Jill?" Horus asked.

"She said it wouldn't be appropriate," Joshua admitted. "But she seemed upset about it. We tried to tell her it'd be alright."

"Well, let me see if I can talk to her," Horus said as he came into the room fully. "But for now, let's pretend we are going to sleep," he teased as he bent to ruffle Gav's hair.

"We'll sleep, Uncle Horus. Promise," Gav said, fingers crossed behind his back.

Horus hummed doubtfully. "Sure," he agreed. "You know, you'll have to clean this up tomorrow morning."

"We know," Clive assured.

"Maybe we can see if we can make something a bit more permanent in the playroom," Horus suggested.

"Can we?" Gav asked excitedly.

"I'll talk to Elwin," Horus said. "But until then, try to keep it down and get some rest."

"We'll stay quiet, Sir," Clive assured.

Horus smiled a bit sadly at being back to 'sir' instead of 'Uncle Horus' but he nodded and after kissing the crown of Gav's head, he left. He debated a moment in the hall about asking Hanna to talk to Jill but decided against it. He wanted to bring as few people into it as possible.

As Horus circled around the mezzanine toward Jill's room, he caught sight of Hanna in Mayra's nursery singing her to sleep and crept past to not disturb them. He knocked lightly on Jill's door and heard her shuffle quickly and bid him enter.

"Hey," Horus greeted. "Noticed you weren't joining in on the fort building. Or pillow fighting."

"It wouldn't be appropriate," Jill said, dejectedly. "I'm not…"

"Not?" Horus asked as he sat next to her on the bed.

"Not family," Jill said. "Or a boy," she grumbled.

"Hmm," Horus hummed in understanding. "Can I ask…" he began and waited until she looked up at him instead of her lap. "Is Gav family?"

"What?" Jill asked, confused.

"Well I mean… He's in there trouncing them at pillow fighting," Horus explained. "And I don't think he qualifies as family."

"No but he's a boy," Jill explained.

"And you think people will talk if you stay with them," Horus stated. "Has someone said something before?" He asked gently.

"Her Grace…" Jill began.

"Was a lying witch," Horus finished. "Try again."

"The servants think Clive and I are going to get married," she corrected. "They talk about our wedding feast and they were talking about my wedding dress when Their Graces got married."

Horus nodded. "Do you want to marry Clive?" Horus asked.

"I don't think I have a choice," Jill said. "I'm here as a ward. That was always the plan. Wasn't it?"

"Do you know what Elwin said to me not long after we arrived?" Horus asked, nonsequitously.

Jill shook her head with a hum of negation.

"He said he was happy to have Mayra in the castle because he always wanted another daughter," Horus told her. "Now I don't know of any other children than you three that Elwin would possibly have a fatherly relationship with. Do you?"

Jill shook her head.

"You are family, Jill," he added insistently. "Clive and Joshua both see you as a sister. Elwin thinks of you as a daughter. And I bet, with his history with arranged marriages, that if you and Clive talked to him and said you didn't want to get married, that he wouldn't make you. But you have to have that talk with Clive and with Elwin."

"Do you… Do you think Clive wants to marry me?" Jill asked.

"That's not my place to say," Horus answered with a soft sense of reprimand. "But I think if you two talk it out, you can come to an agreement."

"I don't know who else I could marry. I don't wanna marry Joshua either. And I don't really get to see any others my age. And the Shields are too old," Jill went on.

"You have time," Horus assured. "And if you don't have anyone by the time you are of age, you will be presented to the court as an eligible bachelorette and can explore and be wooed by many strapping young men."

Jill flushed deeply.

"Maybe even a headstrong lass or two," Horus added slyly.

Jill covered her face as she flushed and leaned into him as if to push him away.

Horus put his hand on Jill's head and ruffled her hair lightly. "You'll be fine," he promised. "Now, I know some other children who were a bit disappointed that their teams weren't even."

"You're sure I can stay over with them?" Jill asked.

"I think we would all be disappointed if you didn't," Horus answered. "Go on."

Jill bit her lip and then jumped up and rushed out of the room after pausing to hug him. There was a muted cheer as she knocked and opened Clive's door. Horus shook his head in amusement as he left the room more sedated and closed the door. He caught Hanna watching him and she nodded with Mayra in her arms as he joined her.

"Lady Jill finally join the boys?" Hanna asked.

"Yeah. She's a bit worried about what it'll look like for a young girl she says isn't family to be staying with three boys," Horus admitted, wiggling his fingers to amuse Mayra.

"It's terrible how children are so concerned. That… ugh… she did a number on that poor girl's self esteem," Hanna finally sighed.

"She did," Horus agreed. "She'll be okay though. She has a chance now out of her poisonous influence to be herself."

"Thank you," Hanna said sincerely. "I was afraid it'd be overstepping if I said anything."

"You do know you are the closest thing they all have to a mother anymore, right?" Horus asked. "I doubt Elwin and Rodney would begrudge you the chance to act it."

Hanna smiled ruefully. "She did a number on both of our self esteem, huh?"

"But you know better now," Horus confided.

"That I do," Hanna agreed.

"Will you be alright to watch Mayra? Or I can get Marissa to watch her?" Horus asked

"We'll handle it. You go see to our Archdukes," Hanna teased.

Horus kissed Mayra's head and then headed towards Elwin and Rodney's room. He sighed as he entered and closed the door softly. Oddly, it felt like a weight was off his shoulders as he made his way towards the bedroom. Like he could finally relax. It was nice.

Chapter Text

Horus leaned in the doorway watching Rodney and Elwin fondly as they held each other and kissed. Rodney had changed out of his armor and into some more comfortable trousers and both men were shirtless in the bed. It caused a mild warm arousal in Horus' gut that he ignored. None of them were in any shape to be getting frisky but the soft arousal was enjoyable even without letting it fan into something hotter.

Rodney was sitting facing away from the door, pinching Elwin's chin between his thumb and forefinger and kissing him softly. Horus didn't move until they parted.

"This is a privilege I'd like to enjoy more often," Horus greeted. "Two handsome half naked men kissing. How did I get so lucky to be invited?"

"You saved our lives. And our children," Elwin answered, opening his eyes and turning to face him.

"It was the right thing to do," Horus protested as he approached the bed.

"And so few people do the right things," Rodney reminded and pulled Horus to straddle his lap near Elwin's hip.

"They're missing out," Horus teased.

"If it were more prevalent we'd have to raise our standards," Elwin joked back.

"Wouldn't want that," Horus said sarcastically.

"You'd still be welcome," Rodney assured. He put his wide hands under Horus' ass and lifted, turning them so Horus was sprawled over Elwin's lap with Rodney over him and between his legs.

"Good to hear," Horus answered on a groan as their semi hard cocks brushed through the thin layers of their sleep pants.

Elwin's hand twinned through Horus' hair, tugging lightly on his rattails. "How was the fort coming along?" He asked.

"G-Good," Horus answered, voice hitching as Rodney nibbled at his neck. "The whole room is covered in blankets. They want to set up something more permanent in the playroom."

Elwin hummed. "We can probably find a way to make that happen," he answered distractedly.

"J-Jill is with them. I had to convince her she could," Horus mentioned between soft moans.

"She didn't want to?" Elwin asked.

"She thought it wouldn't be appropriate as an 'unrelated female'," Horus corrected. He almost mentioned how neither of the kids wanted to marry but bit his lip at the last minute to hold in a groan.

"I'll have to work harder to disabuse her of that notion," Elwin said with a frown.

Horus hummed distractedly as Rodney moved his nipping kisses down the column of Horus' throat. His hand reached under Horus' shirt.

"I wasn't really looking for anything tonight," Horus commented lightly, reaching for Rodney's wrist disappearing under his shirt. "I-Is that alright?" He asked as Rodney pulled back.

"Of course you can say no," Rodney assured, confused as to how that could be in doubt.

"And I can still stay?" Horus added softly. "It's fine. We can…" he trailed off reaching for Rodney's neck to pull him closer at Rodney's thunderous look.

"Hey," Rodney said softly. "No," he grabbed Horus' reaching hands and held them softly between his own.

"You are allowed to say no, Horus," Elwin explained when it looked like Rodney was fighting with his words. "And you are allowed to stay after saying it. We'd be more upset if you forced yourself. Come here."

Rodney reached to help Horus sit up and then bodily lifted him to move him into the middle of the bed next to Elwin.

Horus held on as he was man-handled into place and Elwin reached for his face to make him face the older man.

"You are wanted here for more than your dick," Elwin assured and kissed him softly. "Never force yourself with us."

Horus felt the weird ball of tension in his chest melt a little as Elwin kissed him gently.

"I was more upset that you thought that of us, Horus. I wasn't angry with you," Rodney explained as he settled on the other side of the bed.

"I know. I just… I dunno," Horus assured and rubbed his tired face. "Weird day."

"Stressful, certainly," Elwin agreed.

"How's your side?" Horus asked, reaching to run his fingertips lightly over the bandage.

"Tolerable," Elwin answered. "I can still hold you."

"That wasn't why I asked," Horus told him, looking away from the bandage.

"I know," Elwin said. "It was my concern, though."

Horus smiled softly. "You should be in the middle," he said softly.

"But what if we both wanna hold you," Rodney asked, wrapping around him.

"Your husband is injured," Horus pointed out.

"It's not the first time. Won't be the last," Rodney answered. "I had him last night. Held him while they stitched him up and after when he slept off the potion while you were chasing our children into the countryside. I want you now."

Horus blinked at the description of the night before and relaxed into Rodney's hold.

"You were gone. Taking care of our children when we couldn't," Elwin said, brushing across Horus' cheek with his thumb. "We were worried. We knew I'd make it. But you four were out there out of reach. It took everything I had to hold Rodney back until we knew the Eikons had unprimed. We both wanted to make sure you were alright out there underfoot."

"I stayed out of the way," Horus promised. "I don't have a death wish. Promise."

"They are still unpredictable and dangerous," Rodney grumbled.

"I'm alright," Horus reminded, thumb brushing over Rodney's arm flung across his chest. "We're all alright. We all made it. We're going to be fine."

Rodney buried his face in the back of Horus' neck and breathed slowly as Horus spoke and when he was more composed, he pulled Horus into laying down so the three could tangle themselves together and sleep. There weren't other words exchanged. Just soft touches as affirmations until they fell asleep.

Chapter Text

The next few days were hard on everyone but Horus suspected they were hardest on Elwin. The man had no idea how to sit still even with a deep cut near his heart. He was on bedrest by Tarja's orders. Horus kept his amusement to himself. Tarja was barely older than Clive and ordering around the Archduke like she had been born to it. It was a nostalgic burn in Horus' eye sometimes.

Rodney and Elwin were allowing Horus to stay with them. Or more accurately, Rodney was pulling him to bed with them and aside from some heavy kisses, hadn't pushed for more from him. Horus would be insulted if he wasn't so moved by it. He smiled to himself as he thought of the two men, excused by the fact they were currently arguing in front of him at the moment.

"I'm fine, Rod," Elwin said. "I can walk just fine. It was my chest, not my legs that were injured."

"Tarja said you were on bedrest until further notice. You are going to listen to your healer if I have to tie you to the bed," Rodney protested.

"Kinky," Horus muttered, causing Tarja to snort in amusement as she mixed up a poultice for the wound to help it seal.

"Horus, tell Rodney I can walk," Elwin begged.

"I'm not getting into the middle of you and your healer's orders," Horus told him seriously.

"It's not the walking, Your Grace," Tarja cut in. "It's the stairs. They will be hard on the muscles of your chest as you move and could tear it open again."

Elwin growled. "I am the Archduke of Rosaria. Father of the Phoenix and of Ifrit. I will not be treated like some fragile flower!" He slammed his hand ineffectually on the blankets of the bed.

"Well, if you can't walk, you could always have Rodney carry you," Horus joked.

Elwin's face lit up and Rodney went pale.

"No," Rodney protested. "No, Elwin…" he begged desperately.

"Rod," Elwin said sweetly. "Do I need to make it an order?"

"I really hate you sometimes, El," Rodney accused blandly.

"That why you married me after all these years?" Elwin asked.

"I married you for your ass," Rodney answered stoically.

Tarja choked as she applied the poultice to the wound and then wiped her hands off to leave. "Just… take it easy. Nothing too strenuous involving asses. Or swords," she warned and left still stifling laughter.

"And now undermining me in front of the staff," Elwin bemoaned.

"Oh no worries there, Tarja doesn't respect patients," Horus assured.

Elwin sent him a stricken look and Rodney finally broke down to kiss his pout away.

"Don't go taking risks," Rodney ordered gently.

"I'll be fine, Rodney," Elwin promised. "I've been fine with worse. It's barely a scratch. They said they stitched it for length, not depth."

Rodney sighed.

"I want to see and help with the blanket fort," Elwin explained.

"Will you promise to not reach too far and pull your stitches?" Rodney asked.

"I promise to stop whenever it hurts," Elwin swore.

Rodney sighed again. "Alright, Alright. I'll get you some clothes. Nothing too constricting or tight either. No armor."

Elwin nodded and then rolled his eyes when Rodney turned away.

"I saw that," Rodney told him as he went through Elwin's wardrobe.

"No you didn't," Elwin answered.

Horus just shook his head, chuckling and went to help Elwin sit up and then stand to wipe down at the wash basin.

"He's such a worrywart," Elwin said.

"He also saw you go down in battle while the castle was being invaded," Horus pointed out. "On your wedding night. He's got a point."

Elwin sighed and frowned but when Rodney came to help him dress in the worn linen pants and casual shirt, he kissed Rodney sweetly in apology.

Rodney smiled at him as he kissed him back. "You aren't invincible, El. Don't make me lose you so soon."

"I'm not intending to go anywhere, Rod. I do do my best," Elwin reminded.

"I know. Doesn't mean it doesn't scare me," Rodney pointed out and cupped Elwin's cheek to kiss him softly again. When he pulled away, he held out Elwin's shirt to help him put it on so he didn't have to pull his arm up too far. When that was on, he knelt to help him step into his trousers while Horus helped Elwin maintain his balance.

While Elwin was leaning on Horus, he pressed a kiss to his cheek and Horus blushed at the affection.

"You're cute when you blush," Elwin told him softly.

"Careful, Your Grace," Horus teased. "Someone might take that to be you cheating on your husband."

"It's only cheating if he wasn't fucking you earlier too," Elwin responded.

Horus flushed harder and Elwin laughed at him.

"Alright you two, let's get His Grace to the playroom," Rodney said, standing up after he tied the laces of Elwin's trousers.

"Kinky," Horus muttered.

"We can make you one of those if you want," Elwin told him.

"I think I have my hands full with just you two," Horus answered.

"You could have your hands full of us," Elwin told him.

"Alright, you two," Rodney said again, pointedly, and pushed them gently toward the door.

Elwin rolled his eyes but obeyed and led the way down the hall and toward the playroom. The door was open and they could all hear the kids laughing through the door. When they rounded the corner, they stopped in the doorway. The place was a mess of blankets and sheets and pillows. The curtains were replaced with sheets arching in the middle of the window and draping down and open like the ceiling of a high tent. The blankets were attached to the walls with hooks and the bookcases had curtains shielding them that could be drawn open with a pull cord. The floor was strewn with pillows and blankets.

"Well, I do hope you didn't go overboard," Elwin said and the kids, and the servants they had talked into their endeavor, all turned toward the door and went quiet.

The servants bowed deeply as the kids lined up sheepishly.

"Apologies, Your Grace," one of the servants said.

"Perhaps a corner of the room, instead of the whole room?" Elwin suggested.

"Yes, Father," Joshua and Clive said, joined by a "Yes, Your Grace," by Gav and Jill.

"You may leave it up until your Uncle Byron gets a look at it. You may be able to convince him to change his ghastly decorating," Elwin allowed.

The kids smiled exuberantly and got back to work. Though they focused their attentions primarily on the empty corner. Elwin, Rodney, and Horus entered the room fully and settled on the sofa under a canopy of soft blankets that hung low over their heads. Horus sat and then stood up to take the pillow out from under him before he sat again.

"They don't typically get this big or involved," Horus assured.

"It's fine," Elwin said. "Honestly, it's incredibly comfortable. But a little unsustainable."

"Tempted to put something like this in our room," Rodney joked, winking at Elwin and Horus lasciviously.

"Need a literal love nest?" Horus asked.

"If it'll keep you two in place," Rodney answered.

Horus flushed again at the blatant flirting.

"Where is Byron?" Horus asked. "I haven't seen him since your wedding reception."

"He headed back to Port Isolde during the attack with a contingent of Shields. He oversees out naval forces and was needed to make sure the Iron Kingdom didn't get any closer to our shores and to cut off their retreat."

"He left during the attack?" Horus asked, astounded.

"A Rosfield's duty is not one to be ignored," Elwin answered stoically.

"Yeah but…" Horus shook his head.

"I didn't like asking it of him," Elwin added softly.

"No," Horus assured quickly. "I know you didn't. I understand it. I just don't like it."

Elwin just smiled in understanding and commiseration.

"We will be leaving soon too," Elwin added.

"We will?" Horus asked.

"The Iron kingdom have taken a massive hit. We will hit them back but first, we need to get Joshua to the Apodytery at Phoenix Gate," Rodney explained.

"And to get there," Elwin took up. "We need to go through Eastpool. So, we are going to take a small contingent of Shields and have our honeymoon in Eastpool while the kids and Hanna follow us a few days later."

"I see," Horus said, only partly truthfully.

"We were hoping you would still be willing to join us," Rodney asked.

"On your honeymoon?" Horus asked.

"Yes," Elwin answered and then watched him, waiting for his answer. Rodney joined him, both waiting.

"Are you sure?" Horus asked.

"Very," Rodney assured, wrapping his arm behind Elwin and tugging lightly on Horus' hair. "Promise."

"I suppose I would be crazy to refuse," Horus answered.

"But do you want to?" Rodney asked.

"I do," Horus assured.

"You do what, Uncle Horus?" Gav asked, poking his head under as the kids settled on the floor, or more accurately the mounds of pillows on the floor.

"I will be joining Elwin and Rodney as their guard at Eastpool for their honeymoon," Horus told him. He ignored Clive's knowing look. The lad didn't need to be looking so smug about it. He got that from his uncle and Hanna.

"You will all be joining us later so Joshua can visit the Apodytrey for real this time," Elwin announced.

"When do you leave?" Gav asked.

"Three days," Elwin answered. "And you will be three days behind. Lady Hanna will be coming with you all along with Tyler and Wade and a whole group of trustworthy Shields. Handpicked by Rodney and Tyler to keep you all safe."

"Promise you'll be safe?" Gav asked.

Horus met his eyes seriously. "I promise," he swore.

"A-Alright," Gav agreed.

"Come here," Horus said and held his hand out for Gav and then pulled him onto his lap. "I promise. We are all going to be super safe and I will see you three days later. It'll go by quicker than you think. You'll be so caught up playing here in the fort and keeping an eye on Mayra with Lady Hanna and packing for the trip. You'll barely even notice I'm not here."

Gav nodded but his heart didn't seem to be in it.

Clive and Joshua changed the subject but Horus kept hold of Gav. It was going to be hard being away from them himself. He had been letting Marissa watch Mayra during the nights as she started sleeping through but it was going to be hard to not go in to say goodnight to Gav or kiss Mayra's forehead before bed. But it was necessary. They couldn't be joined at the hip forever. They had to let go eventually. It was only temporary.

Chapter Text

Horus, Elwin, and Rodney walked down the steps of the castle and toward the chocobos in the bailey. The kids and Hanna were waiting at the foot to bid them farewell and Horus could see the nerves on Gav even from the doors of the castle.

When he reached the bottom of the stairs, he held his arm open and Gav ran to him to hug him tightly.

"You're going to be good for Lady Hanna, right?" Horus asked.

"Promise, Uncle Horus," Gav answered, face buried in Horus' side.

"I will see you in three days," Horus said. "Promise." He held his pinkie out to hook into Gav's.

Gav gripped his offered pinkie with his own and stared at their joined hands for a moment before he looked up at Horus.

Horus pulled him into a hug again and kissed his hair before letting him go. "It's going to be fine," he said, tipping Gav's face up with a finger curled under his chin.

Gav nodded resolutely and stepped back.

Horus smiled at him and went to join Elwin and Rodney at the chocobos, they had presumably said their own goodbyes.

"Three days," Elwin reminded.

"Yes, Your Grace," Hanna agreed.

Elwin nodded and turned his chocobo toward the gate with Rodney and Horus behind him. "Onward, friends," he said and led the way through the opened gate.

Horus fought the urge to look back at Gav until the last moment. Gav was holding Mayra with Hanna's arm around his shoulders.

"They're going to be fine, Horus," Rodney reminded.

"Physically," Horus agreed. "But Gav's still not over his family's deaths."

"True," Rodney said. "But you can't protect him forever. He's a strong kid. He needs the chance to figure that out."

Horus sighed. He couldn't argue with that.

Elwin let his chocobo fall back between Horus and Rodney and clapped Horus on the shoulder. "You turned out good without such support. He'll be fine. And braver for having survived it."

"I know. I just want to give him what I didn't have," Horus admitted.

"Like any father," Elwin teased. "But there's a difference between giving them what you didn't and stifling their ability to fly without you."

"When did you start waxing poetic about fatherhood?" Rodney asked.

"Since I was allowed to be the father I want to be," Elwin admitted.

"She really did a number on the whole family," Horus said.

"I should never have let her. But she had a very forceful personality," Elwin admitted shamefully.

"You're doing better now. That's what matters," Horus pointed out.

"Thank you," Elwin said. "But I will always regret the years I let her waste."

"Yes. But you can have more years without her than with her if you are careful and don't take risks," Horus said.

"I keep telling you two that I try to be safe. I do not have a death wish," Elwin responded exasperatedly.

"We know," Horus soothed. "But seeing you angry gets us hot."

"Oh does it?" Elwin asked.

"Horus said it," Rodney protested.

"And you thought it," Horus accused.

"He's my husband, everything he does gets me hot," Rodney justified.

"Fair," Horus said after a moment.

"What about you?" Elwin asked lasciviously. "What else gets you hot?" He wiggled his eyebrows at Horus.

"Wouldn't you like to find out," Horus accused.

"I would, that's why I asked," Elwin explained.

"But isn't it more fun to try to find out for yourself?" Horus asked.

"It can be but how will we get you into bed if we don't know what you like?" Elwin asked.

"Oh you've had no trouble with that so far," Horus reminded.

Rodney chuckled.

"What are you laughing about?" Elwin asked, turning toward Rodney.

"Just remembering all the times we didn't have an issue getting him into bed. Or the sofa. Or the wall. Or…" Rodney listed.

"Yes, Yes," Horus cut in. "I'm an insatiable whore."

"No," Rodney assured. "That's Elwin. You just have a healthy appetite."

"For cock," Elwin added.

"Like you," Horus accused teasingly.

"Very much," Elwin agreed.

Horus and Rodney both laughed at Elwin's shameless response and the rest of the day was spent talking. About the wedding. About their likes. About the Iron Kingdom and Sanbreque. About the kids and their training. Horus could almost forget this hadn't always been his life. Talking with Elwin and Rodney as the Shields followed behind, thankfully out of easy earshot, was easy. As easy as the Hideaway. It was almost scary if it weren't so comforting.

They made it to Eastpool before dark, the roads were clear and the Shields posted in the settlements along the road kept the area clear of beasts. They entered the village and dismounted, being greeted graciously by the mayor.

"Elwin, why don't you and Horus get situated in the house. I'll make sure the Shields are put up appropriately," Rodney suggested.

"We have several homes that are sitting empty that they may use for the time being," the mayor assured.

"See," Rodney said.

"Alright," Elwin agreed. "It'd be nice to get out of this traveling gear and into something more comfortable."

"Are you sure you don't need a hand?" Horus asked.

"I'm sure," Rodney said. "Go make sure His Grace doesn't need help getting changed with that wound."

Horus nodded and waited as two Shields grabbed the reins of his and Elwin's chocobos and led them to the stables.

"Thank you," Horus said, handing his bird over graciously.

"Course, Your Lordship," the Shield assured with a nod.

Horus grimaced at the title and Rodney laughed as he followed the mayor to the housing the Shields would be using.

Horus followed Elwin into the Murdoch house and set to getting a fire going in the hearth. It wasn't cold out but the nights were still chill enough that a fire would be welcome. And would set the ambience he was looking for. He could hear Elwin in the bedroom he and Rodney had used last time they visited as he seemed to be struggling with his clothing.

"Do you need help?" Horus called as there was a soft thump.

"No," Elwin called back. "Just trying to find what I'm looking for."

"Alright," Horus said doubtfully and stayed in the kitchen, going through the cupboards and finding the house had been stocked before their arrival with fresh foodstuffs. He got started on a simple supper for the three of them while he waited for the others to join him.

"I seem to remember this fitting differently," Elwin said as he came out of the bedroom.

Horus turned to look over his shoulder as the older man joined him and was struck dumb as Elwin stepped out of the bedroom he used while here. It was like looking at a ghost. He couldn't stop himself from striding across the room and pressing him to the wall and devouring his mouth in a kiss. Elwin was surprised for a moment before he kissed him back, hands tangling in Horus' hair.

"Sorry," Horus said pulling away. "These were…" He shook his head. "Clive wore these," he finally admitted softly. "He and Jill passed through on their way to Phoenix Gate and Hanna gave them to him. Better than the Imperial armor he had before. I'm sorry I…" he turned to flee but Elwin had grasped his wrist and pulled him back.

"I look like him. Or he looked like me," Elwin stated understandingly.

"You're not a substitute for him," Horus insisted.

"I didn't think I was," Elwin said amused and then sobered at Horus' still obvious distress. "It's alright. You knew him for how long?"

"Five years," Horus answered.

"And this was what he was known for wearing," Elwin continued.

"Have to be honest, he filled it better. But you wear it more modestly," Horus tried to joke, tugging on the laces of the shirt collar.

"Oh?" Elwin asked, amused.

"He had a very generous chest," Horus explained as he stepped closer. "But you have broader shoulders," he assured, kissing under Elwin's ear and along his jawline. "Carry yourself with dominance. He was self-assured after a few years. Had this strut with his hips. But you have more raw power."

Elwin hummed as Horus kissed down his throat and to the collar of the shirt.

"So this is what you're doing without me," Rodney accused amusedly as he entered the room.

Horus hummed as he continued to lave kisses along Elwin's neck and clavicle.

"Horus is feeling a little nostalgic," Elwin explained breathlessly.

"I see," Rodney said. "Seeing you in those clothes, I am too. Though probably for different reasons," He added, stepping up close behind Horus and kissing Elwin over his shoulder.

"I have supper on," Horus protested without force.

"We'll be quick then," Rodney promised.

"I don't want quick," Horus explained.

"Then round one will be quick," Rodney said. "Round two will last for hours." He promised with a kiss to the back of Horus' neck.

"Take me apart and put me back together," Horus begged.

"Gladly," Elwin assured and kissed him again.

Horus clutched at the leather jerkin that Clive was… that Elwin was wearing and held him close as hands explored and stripped. One calloused hand, rough from decades of sword work, wrapped around his cock and stroked him from behind as another set of hands reached under his ass and hiked him up into a set of strong arms.

Horus' eye closed as he bathed in the attention of the two men surrounding him. His breath hitched on a moan as slick fingers invaded his body. He had no idea where the oil came from but he didn't care. Right now he wanted to feel his body give way to a hot cock or two while luxuriating in the feel of soft red leather and an open jacket… the Rosarian surcoat behind him.

When the cock slid inside of him he may have sobbed. There were no words, nothing to break the moment of delirium and pleasure. Two strong sets of hands lifted Horus up and let him drop on the cock inside of him.

"More," Horus begged. "Fuck. Please." One hand reached back to tangle in slightly too long hair and tugged. "Please. Fuck me together."

The Lord Commander behind him kissed just behind his ear and Horus felt the fingers back as the movement slowed to stretch him further.

Horus moaned. "Just like that," he praised. "Fuck. That's perfect."

Horus lost himself to long minutes of fingers and cock spreading him before the fingers slipped out and were replaced by another hot, thick cock.

The two older men moved together, slowly almost tenderly if not for the biting kisses marking Horus' neck and shoulders.

"Touch yourself," the man in front of him ordered and Gav obeyed. His hand wrapped around himself and he jerked himself with desperate movements, cries growing higher until he came over his own belly with a sob.

Gav opened his eye, head tilted back to stare at the ceiling and Horus sobbed again. "Please," he begged and the two, the wrong two. — the right two — men with him kept going until they both had flooded his body with spend.

"Shh," Rodney soothed.

"I'm sorry," Horus said.

"Nothing to be sorry about," Elwin assured. "Let's get you cleaned up."

The two slowly set Horus back on his own two feet and Rodney pulled out to disappear for a wet cloth while Elwin just held Horus, hand tangling in Horus' hair and holding his head close in the crook of his neck.

"I promise you aren't a substitute," Horus muttered guiltily.

"We know," Elwin assured.

"But…" Horus protested.

"Whatever or whoever you thought of just now, doesn't matter. You are here with us. And we aren't going to let you deal with it alone," Elwin told him. "You are allowed to mourn what you didn't get with them."

"I'm never going to have them," Horus admitted.

"You don't know that," Elwin soothed.

"They will never be the men I knew them as," Horus said.

"Then you can have the men you will help them become," Elwin said.

"Are you telling me to fuck your teenage son?" Horus asked.

"Not until he's of age," Elwin growled. "But… what he does as an adult is not my business."

"Even if you had me first?" Horus asked.

"I don't own you, Horus," Elwin said. "Just don't shove it in my face."

"I would never," Horus protested.

"Exactly," Elwin agreed easily and finally let Horus pull back slightly.

Horus kissed him softly. "You're too good a man," Horus accused softly.

"He always has been," Rodney agreed as he wiped the spend leaking from Horus' ass with a wet and surprisingly warm cloth.

Horus leaned back and reached to pull Rodney into a kiss over his shoulder.

"Feeling better?" Rodney asked.

"Aye," Horus answered. "I should get back to supper though."

Elwin kissed his cheek before letting him go and Horus strutted to the kitchen, naked to ensure supper was cooking well and not burning. "I am still sorry," He said, not looking back at them.

"We know," Rodney said. "Even if you don't need to be."

"Do you want space tonight?" Elwin asked.

"Do you?" Horus retorted.

"No," Elwin and Rodney both answered.

"Then no. I don't want space tonight," Horus responded.

"Good," Elwin said with a relieved sigh. "I was afraid you had scared yourself off," he admitted coming to the kitchen and sitting at the table.

"Maybe somedays," Horus admitted. "But not today."

Rodney kissed his neck and reached for the plates and utensils to be ready to serve.

"Good," Rodney said. "We were hoping that was the case," he added.

"You were?" Horus asked, glancing over his shoulder.

"We were," Elwin agreed. "We wanted to talk to you about something," he admitted.

"What something?" Horus asked.

"If you would be willing to stay with us," Elwin said. "More permanently. At Rosalith."

"What do you mean?" Horus asked, turning around.

"We wanted to move your things into our rooms. That can even include Mayra's crib if you feel the need," Rodney explained. "It's been really nice to have you so accessible this last week since the wedding."

"But those are your rooms," Horus protested.

"They could be our rooms," Elwin answered.

"You can of course think about it and even keep your room while also staying with us more regularly and having some clothes in our room and such," Rodney assured him. "It's just been… nice."

"Can I think about it?" Horus asked.

"As long as you like," Elwin promised.

Horus nodded in thanks and turned back around, missing the shared look behind his back.

Rodney placed one large hand on Horus' waist and kissed his neck before he went to join Elwin at the table.

"Where did you learn to cook?" Elwin asked Horus, after several minutes of contemplative silence.

"I spent time in the Fat Chocobo and The Tub and Crown when I wasn't in the field scouting. We didn't have much but we did our best to have a real village. Clive was great in leading us to that. He was always giving everything he had. Made the rest of us want to give too," Horus explained.

"Those were… taverns?" Elwin asked.

"Yeah. Of a sort. We had the barracks for everyone to sleep they were mostly just kitchens and ale. After Kenneth died in Titan's attack, no one was willing to call the place the Fat Chocobo anymore. Maeve took over when she arrived. The Cursebreakers taught her old master a lesson when he meant to make an example of her after a poor harvest," Horus explained. "She did wonderfully with it too."

"It sounds like it," Rodney agreed.

"I don't know where they all are going to be now," Horus admitted softly. "She was born in Rosaria but she had been shipped to Sanbreque during the occupation like every other Bearer. They're all so scattered."

"We'll find them," Elwin promised. "We already have the Undying looking into ways to gather the Bearers from across the realms so we can free them."

"You're what?" Horus asked, turning to face him.

"We have the Undying looking into the different ways we can go about freeing Bearers without drawing all the Realms ire upon us. We have to begin with subtlety," Elwin told him. "We are in too precarious a position as of yet to make a full blown declaration. But we are working on it."

"Thank you," Horus said softly.

"It's always been my goal. What I wanted for Rosaria. What I tried to instill in the boys," Elwin explained.

"You did," Horus assured. "They kept to it."

Elwin smiled sadly. "I'm glad."

"You need to start looking into how to live without crystals or magic," Horus warned. "That's coming if we accomplish what we did last time."

"We are," Rodney assured. "There are many branches of the Undying."

"I know," Horus said. "Still…"

"We'll make it work," Elwin promised.

Horus nodded, taken aback by how easily Elwin had acted on freeing the Bearers.

Elwin held his hand out to Horus and the younger man walked forward, dazed, to take it.

"I promised you," Elwin said. "I keep my promises."

"Yeah," Horus said. "I just…"

"It won't be easy but I'm dedicated. Are you?" Elwin asked.

"Aye," Horus answered.

"Then that's all we need right now," Elwin said.

Horus exhaled heavily and kissed him softly. "I see exactly where Clive got his heart from. And his loyalty."

Elwin smiled as they separated. "How's supper coming?"

"It can keep," Horus said.

"Then can we take you to bed?" Rodney asked, running his hand gently down Horus' arm.

"Aye," Horus said. "I'd like that."

Rodney stood up and pulled Elwin to his feet as well while Horus set the stew pot to cook slowly and then followed them to the bedroom. This was meant to be their honeymoon. It was time to act like it. Even if he was one step away from an interloper.

Chapter Text

Horus followed Elwin and Rodney into the bedroom and glanced around. It was simple, not truly befitting an Archduke and his Lord Commander, but somehow perfect for two soldiers who used it so rarely. Horus felt an odd compulsion to make sure they used it more often.

"Something catch your eye?" Rodney asked as Horus paused, taking in the space.

"It is somehow perfect for you, despite being a bit below your usual accommodations," Horus responded.

"Are you saying we don't deserve nice things?" Elwin teased.

"I'm saying that two fine upstanding soldiers such as yourselves with the humility to not hold yourselves above your men fit perfectly in such humble abodes," Horus answered.

"He's saying my family estate is poor," Rodney accused with exaggerated offense.

"Think we should make him regret it?" Elwin asked.

"I think we have to," Rodney agreed. "My family honor depends on it."

"Oh come on," Horus protested as the two stalked towards him. "You know that's not…"

Rodney smirked as he lunged at Horus.

Horus darted out of the way and took off around the room, having to duck out of the way of four reaching hands. He Jumped over the bed and clamored over the dresser, laughing as the two older men tried to keep up with him. He misjudged a jump onto the bed and was snatched out of the air by Rodney and tossed onto the bed where Elwin was waiting with ready hands to pin him to the mattress.

Rodney followed him down to dig his fingers into Horus' ribs and earned a screech of laughter for his trouble.

Horus was out of breath by the time Rodney gave up and kissed him while he tried to catch his breath. Horus tried to chase his lips but his hands were still held to the bed by Elwin who was sitting behind his head. He pouted as Rodney moved out of reach and fell back to the bed.

Elwin chuckled and kissed him, tangling their hands together. "That's what you get for insulting the noble house of Murdoch."

"I didn't insult them," Horus protested exasperatedly.

Rodney kissed his way down Horus' neck and over his chest, laving kisses over his prominent collarbones. He drew a high cry from Horus as he bit down on one of his nipples.

"He's been dreaming of leaving marks on that lovely skin of yours," Elwin whispered huskily into Horus' ear.

"Not as much as he's been dreaming of getting your cock in him again," Rodney accused, muffled by Horus' skin.

"Think you'd like that?" Elwin asked. "Rodney can hold you down while I ride that magnificent cock."

Horus moaned and nodded.

Elwin kissed him again while Rodney moved to switch spots with him, holding Horus down with two large hands wrapped around his wrists. Elwin climbed over Horus' lap and ground down on Horus' increasingly interested cock.

"D-Does Rodney need to prep you?" Horus asked as Elwin pulled away from his mouth.

"He could," Elwin agreed. "But he is busy keeping you in place. I'll have to do it myself."

Horus wet his lips at that thought and Elwin smirked as he reached for the oil.

Elwin sat up so Horus could look down the length of his body and saw Elwin's fingers disappearing into his own body. Horus glanced up to see the bliss overcoming Elwin's face, eyes fluttering closed and mouth dropping open, his hips rocked while seeking more contact.

Horus' cock twitched as the oil dripped from Elwin's hand onto him. "Elwin," he whined.

"That's it, Horus," Elwin urged. "What do you need?"

"Need you to ride me," Horus said. "Please. Fuck, need to feel you."

"Yeah?" Elwin asked.

"Aye. You're so tight. So hot. I wanna come in your ass. Please, Elwin," Horus continued.

"Good lad," Elwin praised and Horus shuddered on a moan, eyes slipping closed.

Elwin took his fingers from his body and gripped Horus' cock so he could sit on it. He paused at the tip and rocked, teasing them both with the head across his hole. When Horus whimpered, he finally slid onto the cock and down to be sitting fully in Horus' lap.

"Open your eye," Rodney ordered into Horus' ear.

Horus obeyed and gazed adoringly up at Elwin.

"Good boy," Rodney praised. "Look how flushed he is. How needy he is. He can't even sit still on that fat cock of yours."

Elwin groaned, hips rocking and lifting incrementally as he sought stimulation.

"He can have it," Horus said. "Anything."

"Such a good boy," Elwin praised. "So giving. Giving me just what I need. Fucking me just right." He sat up and dropped down, rocking his hips as he did so. "You know, Rodney taught me to ride. Just like a chocobo," he teased with a wink and started riding in earnest. He balanced himself with hands on Horus' chest, gripping the flesh there and toying with the nipples.

"Save a bird, ride a soldier," Rodney teased, drawing a breathless laugh from Elwin.

"Rodney," Horus huffed. "Can I have your cock?" he asked. "Please. Wanna taste your cock."

Rodney closed his eyes for a moment and sat up, he fed his cock into Horus' mouth as he leaned forward to kiss Elwin passionately so he could keep his hands pinning Horus to the bed. He moaned loudly as Horus sucked him down.

"He's so fucking good at that, isn't he?" Elwin asked.

"Oh fucking Founder," Rodney groaned. "Yes he is. Founder the mouth on him."

Elwin moaned as Rodney then latched onto his neck and left dark, bruising kisses across his neck and shoulders as Horus moved as much as possible with the odd angle to suck and bob on Rodney's cock.

Rodney moaned as he rocked shallowly into Horus' mouth. His breath came in increasingly short huffs as he fought to not come so soon but the combination of Horus' mouth and Elwin nibbling on his ear and neck was too much. He came in spurts over Horus' tongue and down his throat.

He pulled back slowly as Horus sputtered and swallowed.

Elwin picked up speed as Rodney pulled back again. He rode Horus hard in the subsequent moments even as Rodney joined Horus' hands in one wrist and reached for his cock with the other and jerked him off.

Horus moaned as Elwin picked up speed and force, his hips tried to arch and fuck up into Elwin's tight body until he shuddered with a forceful orgasm. He panted as Elwin kept riding him until the Archduke came, spend arching up and coating Horus' chest. Horus groaned at the feel of the hot spend on his chest and chin and the feel of oil and spend leaking from Elwin's body as he pulled off Horus' cock.

Elwin laughed breathlessly as he collapsed next to Horus and Rodney leaned down to lick the spend from Horus' chin and then kissing him messily.

Horus pulled him down to hold him in place to continue their kiss as Rodney let his hands go and then turned them so Rodney was sprawled on the mattress and Horus was sitting over him.

When he pulled away, Horus got up to fetch a clean cloth and wiped himself up before coming back to the lovebirds making out in the bed.

"Into bed, you two," Horus said as he cleaned them up.

"You coming," Elwin asked, tugging him into sprawling on the bed when Horus turned to leave.

"I need to set supper aside," Horus protested. "No use burning the magnificent Murdoch Estate to the ground cause we got too caught up fucking on your honeymoon."

Both Elwin and Rodney scoffed but Elwin let him go.

Horus disappeared out of the door and to the kitchen to clean up and checked on supper. The stew was done and Horus got out several bowls, setting the rest aside to ensure it didn't go bad overnight. He took the bowls into the bedroom on a tray and set the tray on the side table.

"You spoiling us?" Elwin asked.

"It is your honeymoon," Horus reminded.

Rodney pulled him into bed when the bowls were safely set aside. "We'll have to keep you around then."

"Oh I see what I'm good for," Horus teased.

"Not your cooking," Elwin joked.

"Hey!" Horus protested. "It's not that bad, is it?"

"No," Elwin assured, kissing him. "But your cock is better."

Horus scoffed.

Elwin kissed him again and handed over a bowl of stew. The three ate quietly, curled up together on the bed and joking about various rumors of the castle. It felt so easy and comfortable as Horus leaned back against Rodney, one knee up in the air and brushing over Elwin's calf with his foot. Just the simple ability to touch these two so casually and nakedly was making something in Horus feel warm.

Chapter Text

Horus woke the next morning to a wet warmth around his cock and a soft moan. He was mid-moan when the hand landed over his mouth to muffle him. He squinted open his good eye and glanced around.

Rodney was laying next to him, one arm thrown over his head and soft breaths puffing from between parted lips. Which left Elwin to be the mouth around his cock and the hand over his mouth.

He glanced down and saw Elwin looking at him pointedly. Horus nodded and Elwin took his hand back to hold Horus' cock so he could suck on it, bobbing his head eagerly.

Horus bit his lip to hold in his groans of pleasure. His hips sought to arch up into Elwin's hot mouth but were held down by one strong arm that only increased Horus' desire. He was getting closer, one hand finding its way clenched between his jaw, leaving teeth impressions behind on his flesh. His other hand sought out Elwin's blindly, clawing into the first flesh he found, Elwin's arm.

Elwin sent him a smirk as he pulled off and left Horus wanting.

Horus pouted as his orgasm was stolen from him at the last moment. He was kept quiet by Elwin surging up to kiss him.

"You'll enjoy it more while fucking Rodney," Elwin whispered against his lips.

Horus licked his lips, tongue brushing over Elwin's still so close to him and breathing the same air. "You don't want him yourself?"

"Oh I am going to ride that man like I'm outrunning an army of Imperials," Elwin smirked. "Let me wake him up before you start sticking anything up his ass though."

"Too late," Rodney's voice rang out.

Both Horus and Elwin looked over to see Rodney, eyes still closed and arm over his eyes to block the light from the sunrise through the window. He seemed asleep in all other ways.

Elwin huffed with a pout. "Rodney," he nearly whined. "You're supposed to be asleep. I had a plan."

"Unfortunately, like most other plans of yours, it has failed," Rodney responded.

"Not if you go back to sleep. Or I can make you with a pan to the head," Elwin complained.

"You wouldn't. A head wound bleeds too much," Rodney said. "You need to get up earlier than this to get one over on me." He smirked and squinted over at the from under his arm. "After all, I need to keep up on my skills with Horus going after my job."

"I do not want your job," Horus pointed out dryly.

"Sure you don't," Rodney said doubtfully, teasingly.

"Why do I need your job when I can fuck Elwin without the stress of the Shields?" Horus asked.

Rodney laughed loudly at his assertion as Elwin frowned, looking put out.

"Good point, Horus," Rodney laughed. "Maybe I should retire."

Elwin's eyes went wide as he pouted. "You wouldn't," he protested, vehemently.

Rodney just continued to laugh as he pulled Elwin into a smiling kiss. "I wouldn't leave you to their tender mercies. Someone has to keep you in one piece," he assured.

"Good," Elwin sighed. "Much as I enjoy the Shields, I need a buffer."

"We can protect you from the big bad soldiers, El," Rodney promised.

"I thought you liked the Shields," Horus commented as he settled on his side to watch the two, head propped up and fingers dancing lightly over both of them in random patterns.

"I do," Elwin said. "I like them and respect them immensely. More than the nobles at any rate. But sometimes I just need to send Rodney to them. They are wonderful and hard working and honorable. And yet they never let me forget I am the Archduke. Hearing nothing but Your Grace from everyone gets tiring," he admitted.

"That makes sense," Horus said and leaned over to kiss him. "I won't call you 'Your Grace' if you don't want me to. I suppose it felt disrespectful. Especially in front of everyone."

"That's not to say I hate the title. But it's not really mine," Elwin told him. "It's Joshua's. I'm just a placeholder."

"I promise you, no one in that castle thinks of you as a placeholder. I am quite sure Joshua would let you keep the title if he didn't think there would be a revolt. He'd probably want to hand it to Clive if the same weren't still true," Horus told him.

"I see that more and more in him," Elwin agreed. "The doubt. It's lessening with his training with you and time spent with Gav."

"Glad we can help," Horus assured.

"You know how else you could help?" Elwin asked.

"How?" Horus asked.

"By fucking Rodney," Elwin told him with a smirk.

"Oh? I think I could manage that," Horus agreed, laughing.

"The wake up may have been ruined but we can ruin him in other ways," Elwin joked.

"Looking forward to you trying," Rodney said, hands gripping Elwin's waist and running up his sides and effortlessly picking him up to move him over Rodney's lap.

"Love when you manhandle me," Elwin admitted as he settled on Rodney's thighs.

"Like it even better when I fuck you like this," Rodney teased.

"I do," Elwin agreed with a smirk. "But let's let Horus get you nice and loose for his cock before you go manhandling me like a cock sleeve."

"That would be lovely to see," Horus said, heatedly.

"Lovelier to experience," Elwin assured him.

"Someday, Horus," Rodney said, winking at him.

Horus cupped Rodney's cheek and kissed him deeply. "Would you let me fuck you this morning, Rodney?" he asked when he pulled away.

"I'd be upset if you didn't," Rodney admitted.

"Then be good and stay still for me," Horus said. "I have something I think you'll like."

"Oh?" Rodney asked lasciviously.

Horus just wagged his eyebrows as he moved down to behind Elwin, pausing to kiss his way over Elwin's neck and shoulder. He reached for the oil someone had set on the side table but instead of uncorking it immediately, he settled on his belly and urged Elwin to move up overtop of Rodney's belly instead of his lap. Once Elwin was out of the way, Horus took Rodney's cock in his mouth for mere moments and then kissed his way back to his balls, laving them with his tongue as Rodney sighed in pleasure.

Horus waited until Rodney was relaxed, the older man's hands running softly over Elwin's sides as they kissed, before he moved even further back, holding Rodney's balls in his palm and out of the way, he kissed his way back to his furled hole. He heard Rodney's breath catch as he kissed him there, tongue coming out to lick around the outside of his entrance before kissing it deeply, as deeply and passionately as he had kissed Rodney's lips. His tongue dove in and he heard Rodney moan shamelessly and saw his hands clench on Elwin's waist.

Further and deeper, Horus tried to kiss, spearing Rodney on his tongue and fucking him with it. He could hear Rodney pull back from Elwin's kiss and gasp and moan as Horus worked him wet and loose and sloppy with his tongue. Even before he ever thought to work a finger into him, Horus could hear and feel Rodney falling apart.

Elwin cast a glance over his shoulder and chuckled when he saw what Horus was doing behind him.

"Oh that is a beautiful sight there," Elwin praised. "His mouth is already talented around a cock, does he feel much better in your ass?"

"Founder, El," Rodney moaned.

"He must to have you sounding so wrecked. Like a common whore at the Rose and Thorn," Elwin teased.

"El," Rodney groaned and bit his lip. "Horus," he gasped as Horus did something with his tongue he knew would make him feel good. Rodney let go of one of Elwin's hips and reached down, tangling his fingers in Horus' short hair and pulled, urging him closer as he tried to get the tongue even further inside of him.

That was Horus' cue to slip his first finger into Rodney's body alongside his tongue. It cut down on how deep he could go with his wriggling tongue but the increased depth with his finger was worth it.

Rodney shook as Horus slipped first one and then two fingers inside of him and pulled back, Rodney's fingers slipping through his hair and mussing it beyond redemption.

"Think you can be ready for me so soon, Rod?" Horus asked.

"Yes," Rodney answered. "Founder fucking yes," he added desperately.

Horus opened the oil and poured some on his cock, shivering at the feel of the cool oil over his hard and heated flesh. He then added another pour over Rodney's so that he was slick for Elwin to sit on.

Rodney shuddered and moaned at the feel of Horus' hand spreading the oil over his cock.

"Here, El," Horus said and guided Elwin into scooting back and lowering himself on Rodney's cock. The oil mixed with Rodney's precum and made the whole endeavor extra slick.

Rodney took deep breaths, seeking control as Elwin slid onto him, his tight hole and body doing little to help calm him from the ecstasy that Horus' mouth had taken him to the brink of. He didn't think he was going to last long. Especially not once Horus moved to press into him.

"Ready?" Horus asked, his cock barely resting against the slick hole in front of him.

"Yes," Rodney moaned.

Horus chuckled and started pressing in slowly, drawing out the stretch and sensation of filling and being filled into a slow drag of his cock against Rodney's inner walls.

"Fucking tease," Rodney gasped as Horus finally pressed all the way inside.

Horus huffed and jerked his hips forward, jolting Rodney and making him moan. "What was that?" Horus asked.

"More," Rodney demanded.

"Think he deserves it after that, El?" Horus asked.

"Maybe not," Elwin admitted. "But it is his honeymoon," he added with a sigh.

Horus chuckled and pulled back slightly as Elwin sat up and they both slammed home seconds apart.

Rodney's hands clenched on Elwin's waist and he threw his head back on a deep moan.

Horus tried to match Elwin's pace as much as possible and wrapped his arms around Elwin to peer over his shoulder at Rodney.

Elwin turned to kiss Horus messily as they both moved and Rodney watched them heatedly.

Horus could feel Elwin moan as Rodney moved one large hand to toy with his husband's chest, alternating between pinching and tugged at his nipples.

"You're going to kill me," Rodney groaned as Horus shifted slightly to hit his prostate, sweaty forehead pressed to Elwin's back.

"That would be counter productive," Elwin teased breathlessly.

"But true," Rodney gasped back.

Horus reached around to stroke Elwin's cock and drew a muttered curse from him.

"Maybe it's just Horus trying to usurp the throne," Rodney chuckled in breathless amusement.

"I'm not in line for a throne," Horus answered. "I just want to see you both cum for the first time today."

"First time?" Elwin asked.

"It's your honeymoon," Horus answered. "Were you planning to leave the bed? Or house?"

Rodney laughed. "He's got you there, El."

Elwin opened his mouth to respond but cut off into a gasp and then a moan as Horus bit down on his neck and Elwin came over his hand and painted Rodney's stomach in stripes of cum.

Rodney moaned as Elwin tried to keep moving, drawing out his own orgasm and seeking to bring Rodney over the edge with him. He succeeded after a few moments as Horus met Rodney's eye even as Elwin's head was thrown back in bliss.

Horus sped up, pounding into Rodney, who moaned desperately until Horus pulled out and stroked himself off over Rodney and Elwin's asses.

The three men panted for long moments before Elwin slowly sat up, letting Rodney slip out of him and dripping the other man's cum over his lap before collapsing back onto Rodney's chest.

"Why did we take a younger lover?" Elwin asked. "The man is going to kill us."

"Because you liked the way his ass looked in his leather trousers," Rodney answered.

"Not as much as you wanted to kiss him," Elwin responded.

"He's still here," Horus reminded them amused.

Rodney laughed and opened one arm to invite Horus to join them in laying down for a post coital cuddle.

Horus went easily and curled up on his side, one arm thrown over Elwin and his legs tangling with the other men's. He sighed as he felt Rodney's fingers running through his hair and slowly undoing the ties on his rattails.

"You should grow your hair out a little," Rodney said after a few moments of silence.

"Oh?" Horus asked.

"I think you'd look handsome with your hair all in a tie instead of these three little tufts," Rodney said.

"I kept it that way because my sisters liked to practice braiding my hair. But I never let them finish the full head before I was squirming to go outside. They'd only gotten through three before I left that morning. I took them out immediately. That's why Gav didn't have them when you met. I never really mastered the art of braiding but… trying felt like a way to keep them," Horus admitted.

Rodney stopped playing with his hair to wrap around his back and tug him closer so he could kiss his hair.

Elwin joined by kissing him softly from where he had been laying, watching them on Rodney's chest.

"It won't bring them back, though," Horus went on.

"No, and you have Mayra now," Elwin said. "We can teach her how to finish braiding it."

Horus chuckled tearfully.

"It's alright, Horus," Rodney assured as the younger man hid his face in Rodney's shoulder. "His jokes make me cry too."

Horus laughed again at Elwin's offended, "Hey."

"You can keep them as long as you need," Rodney said into Horus' hair.

"Yeah," Horus agreed. "But I think it is time to let them go. I've been holding on to too many ghosts. It might be time to stop haunting myself."

"We'll help in any ways we can," Elwin promised.

"I think you already are," Horus said softly, still tucked in Rodney's shoulder. He felt a kiss to his hair and another to his temple as he kept his eye closed.

It was the perfect day for a lazy morning. They could stay here for a while. He didn't feel any need to run anymore.

Chapter Text

Waking late is a luxury rarely afforded in their world, despite living in a castle. But, Horus had to admit after they finally climbed from the bed hours after sunrise and closer to noon than morning, that there was a sense of relaxation in such a vacation. No chores. No meetings. No training. No kids — no matter how much he loved them, and he did, he had not expected to be thrown so suddenly into single parenthood and it was quite an adjustment.

As he let Elwin and Rodney bathe and dress — they had invited him but the tub was already cramped with just one let alone three grown men, Horus stood staring out at the field and down the hill on the outside of town. It was funny how a place that he had seen in such disaster and distress, that would not come to pass if he had a say, could be so peaceful and beautiful in the late morning sun. He sighed with his arms crossed and leaned against the door jamb.

"Your hair practically glows in the light like that," Elwin said, wrapping wet arms around Horus' waist and setting his chin on Horus' shoulder, and dripping his wet hair all over the floor.

Horus huffed and turned towards him. "You're getting me wet," he complained.

"Oh am I?" Elwin teased. "I should do something about that."

"Menace," Horus accused fondly.

"Let us get you squeaky clean so we can get you all dirty again," Elwin said, pulling Horus, unresistingly if he was honest, back to bed.

Rodney was refilling the tub with clean water and the fire crystals under the tub were heating it wonderfully. A hot bath. Even more luxurious than a lie-in was not something Horus was sure he had ever really had the chance to enjoy, really enjoy that is without feeling rushed. Cold rivers? Yes. Cold lakes? Yes. Cold baths? Yes. A heated bath? Cid had tried to set something up but it hadn't worked quite right. If he'd had more time Horus was sure he would have figured it out. He shook his head to shake loose the maudlin reminiscences.

"All for me? You shouldn't have," Horus joked instead of dwelling on things he was resolute in putting behind him.

"Oh we think you deserve some pampering," Rodney answered him and reached to beckon him to the tub.

Horus smiled wryly and took the offered hand to support him as he climbed into the hot water. He groaned as he sank into the water and leaned against the back of the tub, head sinking back to rest on the lip of the tub as he enjoyed the heat sinking into his bones.

"Is that how we get you to make that sound?" Elwin teased from his knees next to Horus.

Horus squinted open his eye. "I seem to recall you shushing me when I was making a similar groan this morning."

"I didn't want you to wake Rodney," Elwin grumbled.

"And that worked a charm," Horus laughed.

Rodney joined him in laughing at Elwin's pout as he settled on his ass and leaned against the side of the tub. his knee was bent and he rested his on arm across it and drifted his fingers over Horus' arm that was dangling out of the tub.

"You going to sit there and watch me get clean?" Horus asked, laughing.

"Not quite," Rodney hummed and Horus caught Elwin moving out of the corner of his eye and then the older man was tilting his head back again and pouring a goblet of water over his hair and taking out the ties.

"Oh. You meant actual pampering," Horus said as he let Elwin run his fingers through the loose and wet strands.

"We did," Elwin agreed.

"Why? This is your honeymoon, remember?" Horus asked without much heat.

"Because seeing you relax is a treat we intend to savor," Elwin answered into his ear.

Rodney rolled his eyes as he grabbed the washcloth and soap. "Just trust that on our honeymoon we want to pamper you," he instructed. "You wouldn't want to tell us what we can or can't do on our honeymoon, would you?"

Horus rolled his eye behind his lid. "Far be it from me to disobey royalty," he teased.

"We know you don't see yourself the way the rest of us do, but you do deserve nice things too," Rodney told him.

Horus would have looked down had Elwin not been scrubbing his hair with soap.

"It's not about not deserving," Horus protested. "Just… I don't know."

"You don't value yourself enough, Horus," Elwin warned. "But that's alright. We'll do it for you."

"If I ever started valuing myself as highly as you two do, you wouldn't have an excuse to pamper me," Horus told them.

"Like we need a reason," Rodney told him and started running the sudsy cloth over Horus' arm and chest, cleaning between each finger delicately.

"If anyone knew you two were such saps," Horus teased.

"They'd be jealous of you more than they already are," Elwin said wryly.

"I would be," Horus agreed.

"But you get it for free," Elwin answered back.

"Good. I couldn't afford you," Horus warned.

"Good thing we aren't for sale," Rodney joked.

Horus hummed as Elwin rinsed out his hair, pouring goblet after goblet of warm clean water over his hair with his head tilted back to avoid getting soap in his eyes.

"You are even more handsome when you're relaxed," Rodney said a bit awestruck.

Horus scoffed. "You don't need to flatter me, Rodney," he joked.

"I'm not," Rodney said and surged forward to kiss him. He used the closer distance to run the cloth over Horus' neck and down his chest to the waterline and further as his other hand cupped the younger man's chin between thumb and forefinger.

"We said we'd let him relax and get clean, Rod," Elwin reprimanded fondly.

"Can you blame me? He's too kissable," Rodney protested.

"I suppose not," Elwin agreed with a sigh.

Rodney pulled back to settle against the side of the tub again and got down to business, running the cloth across Horus' skin, above and below the water.

"He's utterly smitten," Elwin accused Horus amusedly in his ear. "I can't blame him. I am too."

Horus shivered at the combination of Elwin's admission and Rodney's hands on his hips and thighs.

"If I didn't know just how deeply he loved me, I'd almost be tempted to be jealous. You're nearly all he thinks about when we are together. But I have to admit, he may have wanted you first but I'm nearly as bad," Elwin continued.

Horus whimpered as Rodney wrapped one calloused hand around his cock and stroked. His hands clenched on the tub's rim as his eye scrunched tightly closed.

"Fuuuck," Horus groaned softly as Rodney continued to stroke him and Elwin's hand found his chest to run teasing circles around his nipples.

"We could," Elwin said. "But you're all wet," he teased.

"I'd be just as wet without the bath," Horus warned.

"Promises," Elwin joked.

"Please," Horus said.

"I have to admit, I've been dreaming of getting to sink into that delicious ass of yours," Elwin admitted.

"Yes, please," Horus agreed.

"Eager," Rodney teased and helped Horus sit up and turn onto his knees so he could bend over the side of the tub with his ass up.

"I am," Horus agreed.

"I meant El," Rodney responded. "We had wanted to seduce you with a nice bath and dinner and then take you to bed."

"You don't need a bath and dinner to get me into bed," Horus told him.

"But you deserve it," Rodney pointed out as Elwin was busy prepping Horus with the oil set nearby.

Horus gasped and leaned his head against Rodney's abs as Elwin fingered him. He fought to stay still and not rock back too forcefully for fear of splashing the water all over the floor.

"Oh," Elwin sighed, "so beautiful. So tight. I'm going to love sinking into this," he slapped Horus' ass lightly with his free hand and then squeezed.

"It is a treat," Rodney agreed.

"El," Horus moaned. "Stop teasing. Please, I need you to fuck me already."

"Oh that's lovely," Elwin said as he did as Horus had so kindly begged for. He slid his fingers free and stroked himself with the excess oil before sinking in slowly with his cock.

"Rodney," Horus groaned. "Can I taste you while he fucks me?"

"How could I refuse?" Rodney asked and shifted so Horus could mouth at his hard cock.

"So much for getting clean," Elwin teased.

"We can clean up later," Rodney pointed out. "Right now, Horus has asked you politely to fuck him."

"Can't disappoint the lad," Elwin joked, rolling his eyes. He pulled back and slid forward, letting them both savor the feeling of Elwin inside of him. He slowly built up until, no matter Horus' good intentions, the water was on the floor more than it was in the tub.

Rodney threaded his fingers through Horus' hair and held it out of the way so he could watch Horus suck and bob on his cock, first at his own pace and then being pressed forward by the force of Elwin's thrusts.

"Founder you're perfect at that," Rodney praised as he let his head drop back as he fucked into Horus' mouth.

Horus moaned. The feel of Elwin in his ass and Rodney in his throat had him nearly coming then and there. But it was Elwin's sword calloused hand and his teeth dug into Horus' shoulder that pushed him over the edge with a muffled cry.

Elwin groaned as he joined him over the edge, hips twitching and rabbiting into Horus' ass to prolong his orgasm as much as possible.

Rodney pulled out and stroked himself in front of Horus' face until he too came over Horus' newly clean hair and face.

Elwin laughed as he came down from his high. "We'll have to get another bath drawn," he joked.

Horus collapsed back against the inside of the tub as Elwin pulled out and huffed. "If you can keep your hands to yourselves," he joked. "I may need to bathe myself this time."

Elwin pouted and kissed his bite mark.

"You are probably right," Rodney agreed. "If the goal is to get clean that is."

"At least rewash my hair," Horus responded.

Rodney reached forward to flick a wet strand of hair off Horus' forehead. "I like the look on you. But yes. Probably best to get it washed out."

"And then we can find something to do for the afternoon. I have an early morning planned for the three of us, so no sleeping in tomorrow," Horus warned.

"You have plans for us?" Elwin asked.

"Yep. Decided on them earlier while you two bathed," Horus told them. "Up before the sun tomorrow."

"So you're sending us to bed early?" Rodney asked.

"I can make it worth your while," Horus teased.

"I'm sure you could," Rodney agreed. "Very well. We will go along with your mysterious plans."

"Good," Horus said. "Now get out. I want to get clean for real this time."

"Bossy," Elwin accused but he stood up and ruffled Horus' hair teasingly and then danced out of reach of the splash of water that was aimed his way in retaliation.

Rodney laughed as he joined Elwin and paused to kiss Horus softly before he tugged Elwin out of the room and shut the door.

Horus sighed as he collapsed back into the now cool water and shook his head. He reached up and felt out the cum in his hair and scrunched his nose in distaste before he got the goblet and set to work getting actually clean. He hoped they liked his surprise tomorrow. He thought they would. He could always make it up to them if not. He had a few ideas.

Chapter Text

Horus did indeed send Rodney and Elwin to bed early after a lazy afternoon spent lounging in bed and reading, for Elwin, and listening to him read, for Rodney and Horus. Once they were sufficiently tuckered out, Horus left them to curl into each other and get ready for their surprise. It wouldn't take long but the more he could prepare now the less he had to do before he woke them in the morning. With everything settled, cabinets gone through and supplies found, he headed back to the bed and let himself be slightly selfish and squeeze into the space between them.

They made room for him with little prompting and without even bothering to open their eyes. It made something in Horus feel warm as he was wrapped up in the two of them and drifted to sleep.

The morning came much too quick and Horus dragged himself from the warmth of the bed and his bedpartners arms reluctantly. But the idea of his surprise had him creeping out of the room and towards the kitchen. Most of what he needed was set to the side but he had a few things he had to arrange before he woke the others and made them dress and follow him. He kept glancing out of the windows nervously despite an instinctual understanding of how much time he had.

As much as Horus wanted to wake the two men in a similar manner to the day before, he restrained himself by remembering that he had plans for later. He shook Elwin softly and kissed him as he woke up.

"You were telling the truth when you said it was going to be an early morning," Elwin yawned, glancing out the window the pure blackness of night.

"I think you'll like it," Horus assured and went to kiss Rodney awake. "You'll want to get dressed."

"But it's our honeymoon," Rodney protested with a wide jaw-cracking yawn.

"Unless you want the whole world to see you starkers, I'd get dressed," Horus told him, laughing. "Meet me by the front door," he ordered, heading for the door to the bedroom. "And bring your swords," he added, glancing back as he opened the door.

"Do you know what he has planned?" Horus heard Rodney ask but any answer Elwin made was lost as he headed back down the hall.

He grabbed the few things he needed and waited for them by the door as he said. They didn't take long and Rodney was dressed in casual armor while Elwin wore Clive's, his own, old hunting armor.

"Alright," Elwin said, fixing his vambraces as they approached. "Where are we heading?"

"Not too far outside town," Horus admitted. "I uh…" he paused, suddenly second guessing himself. "I thought we could watch the sunrise from the cliff. Brought breakfast," he said, holding up the basket of food and the folded blanket thrown over his arm.

Rodney stepped closer and kissed him gently. "Sounds wonderful," he agreed and Horus felt himself relaxing again.

"Then we'd best head out before the sun beats us to it," Elwin said and held the door open for first Horus and then Rodney to step out.

They met a patrol of Shields near the entrance to town, apparently they were making sure the village was secure for their Liege Lord's honeymoon, and assured them they didn't need an escort and that they would shout loud enough to be heard should they run into trouble they couldn't handle. What sort of trouble they thought the Lord Commander, Archduke, and strange stray they had picked up would meet that they couldn't handle escaped Horus but… anything was possible.

The moon was bright in the night sky thankfully as they picked their way through the field and through the pass to the high cliff overlooking Cressida and all of the Three Reeds marshes. Horus laid out the blanket as the sky was lightening and set out some sweet cakes and meat pies he had made the day before. A closed jug of juice was shared between them as they watched the sun slowly begin its journey for the day.

"This is probably one of my favorite views in Rosaria," Rodney admitted.

"Mine too," Elwin admitted. "The view from the castle is beautiful but this… this is the real beauty of Rosaria."

"Doesn't hurt that it's the only place you were able to really relax for so long," Rodney pointed out.

"That too," Elwin agreed with a smile.

"It's nice to see it alive again," Horus said, hugging his knees to his chest while the others lounged on either side of him.

"What happened to it?" Elwin asked.

"Lots of things. It doesn't really matter. It won't happen the same way this time," Horus said.

"Please?" Elwin said simply, laying a hand on Horus' back.

"Sanbreque didn't care about Rosaria during the occupation. The roads were in disrepair. The beasts were running wild and unstopped. Cressida was abandoned. Eastpool was dying. And then died when Anabella sent her Black Shields to kill everyone. They succeeded. We didn't get word in time to stop them. The town was on fire. Everyone in the streets dead. Hanna…" Horus trailed off as he felt his breathing grow shorter.

"Shh," Rodney soothed, running his fingers through Horus' hair while Elwin rubbed his back.

"It's not going to happen this time," Elwin reminded him. "You made sure of it. We all did. They are safe."

"It wasn't all bad," Horus said almost desperately. "Martha was a blessing. There," he nodded out to where The Sleeping Chocobo would one day, hopefully stand. "I can't remember how old she would be now but… she had an inn there on the rise. Martha's Rest we all called it. And the Sanbrequois had the abbey built. The abbot would see to the dying Bearers Martha could afford to buy. They were killed too." He rubbed his face. "Fuck. I'm sorry. This was supposed to be a happy morning."

"Who's unhappy?" Elwin asked. "I'm fine having two of my favorite people with me and a beautiful view. I'm only sorry you seem so upset. I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."

"I did it to myself," Horus said, shaking his head.

"It may not happen the same but it's something that was real to you. You saw it. Experienced it. It effects you. You don't need to apologize for that. We're here to listen. Help," Rodney said. "I had horrible nightmares after my first battle. I had no idea what to do about it. Just push through. Then one night, I woke up with Elwin having one too. It helped for us to talk it out with each other. Others may not understand. We may not fully understand. But it's better than keeping it to yourself."

Horus sighed and glanced out the corner of his eye to Elwin.

"He's right," Elwin told him, catching his eye.

"We've heard you whimper sometimes. In your sleep," Rodney admitted.

Horus huffed and stretched his legs out and leaned back on his arms. "I don't know where to start."

"Wherever and whenever you feel the need. Now. Later. The beginning. As things come up. It doesn't matter. Just… we want to be there for you," Rodney admitted.

"I appreciate it," Horus said. "I do. I just don't know how really. Too much time spent ignoring it, I guess."

"Well, we aren't going anywhere," Elwin pointed out. "And you swore oaths to not go anywhere."

Horus chuckled wryly. "So I did."

"Do you regret it?" Elwin asked with a smirk.

"Not a chance," Horus answered. "I may not have any idea what I am doing but… as much as I miss the Hideaway and the people, I want to be here."

"We want you here too," Elwin assured.

"I'm glad," Horus said and looked back over the cliff to the horizon where the sun was a crescent where land met sky.

"You know it feels like a lot longer than four months," Rodney said, watching the sky with Horus.

"How long's it feel like?" Horus asked.

"A million," Rodney answered.

"Here's to a million more," Elwin said, raising the jug of juice and taking a drink. "Might need something stronger."

Horus laughed and dug out a bottle of Firethorn and a jug of ale.

"That's more like it," Elwin cheered.

"Lush," Rodney accused.

"I am either a lush or a cockwhore," Elwin said. "Take your pick."

"I didn't say it was a bad thing," Rodney said. "I happen to love my husband no matter what he's a whore for."

Horus laughed as Elwin stuck his tongue out at Rodney.

"Don't tempt me, El," Rodney said heatedly. "You know I have no trouble fucking you in a field."

"Prove it," Elwin challenged.

Rodney lunged for Elwin, knocking him prone and trapping Horus between the two of them. Elwin begged for mercy while Rodney attacked him with searching fingers and tickling him mercilessly while Horus laughed, trapped in the middle.

Maybe not what he had exactly planned for the morning but it was still somehow perfect even as Horus managed to roll away and Rodney chased Elwin around the clearing. Yep. Perfect. Somehow.

Chapter Text

"You can't outrun me, El," Rodney yelled as Elwin laughed and tried to zig while Rodney zagged. They passed each other and Rodney used the opportunity to grab at Elwin's arm, yanking him off balance and into the bushes with a startled shout, Elwin pulling him down after him. Horus rolled his eyes as went to fish them out again. The two were tangled hopelessly and made worse from them both trying to get out while sabotaging the other. It was a struggle but soon enough Horus was herding them them back to the blanket while the two bickered.

"I can't believe you tripped me," Elwin yelled as Horus ushered them to the blanket and into sitting.

"Can't see why, I did it last time we were up here too," Rodney cut back with a smirk.

"And now look at me, I have leaves in my hair, Rodney," Elwin complained.

"You look good disheveled," Rodney teased.

Horus dug through his basket to find the fruit he had packed and popped a grape in Elwin's mouth when he opened it to complain about Rodney tripping him again.

"Augh," Elwin protested as he started to chew.

Rodney started laughing uproariously as Elwin chewed, disgruntled. He stopped laughing as a grape found its way into his mouth as well.

Horus smiled as the two glared at him petulantly. "Yes, you both have wonderful points," he said. "But you're ruining my view," he added with a smirk.

"I am bleeding, Horus," Elwin protested.

"So am I," Rodney scoffed, holding up an arm scratched by the thorns in the bushes they fell into.

"Do I need to kiss it better?" Horus asked, rolling his eyes.

Elwin perked up. "Would you?" he asked.

Horus didn't answer but he did crawl over to Elwin and took his hand, pressing his lips to the scratch on his palm.

"What about me?" Rodney asked with a put upon pout.

Horus grabbed Rodney's hand and kissed his bruised wrist, tongue coming out just slightly to soothe the sting of the cut.

"What about this one?" Elwin asked, pointing out a scratch on his arm through his shirt.

Horus huffed and leaned in to roll up Elwin's sleeve to rain kisses on every scratch.

"You missed one over here," Rodney said and showed off his cheek with a scratch running under his eye.

Horus kissed it softly.

"I have one of those too," Elwin said and Horus leaned in to kiss the scratch going down over Elwin's lips.

"Feel better?" Horus asked softly.

"For a definition of better," Elwin teased with a small smile.

"Might have another problem now," Rodney pointed out.

"Something else you need kissed better?" Horus asked, knowing the answer.

"If you're offering. A kiss would make it feel better," Rodney answered.

"I could probably accommodate. Can't go leaving anything unkissed that I could… ease the pain of," Horus answered and pushed Rodney down onto his back, his hands pressing the older man into the ground as they kissed, lips on lips and tongue against tongue.

Elwin hummed appreciatively as Horus climbed onto Rodney's lap while the larger man let him hold him down. Horus ran his hands over the broad shoulders beneath him and groped at Rodney's muscular arms all the while holding him down into the dirt.

"That is such a lovely sight," Elwin praised.

"He is quite handsome, isn't he?" Rodney asked as Horus kissed over his neck.

"I meant you being pinned," Elwin admitted. "But he's pretty handsome too."

"El," Rodney whined.

"Be nice," Horus said between kissing his way down to the collar of Rodney's shirt and pulling it over his head. "It's your honeymoon."

"I am being nice," Elwin protested. "It's lovely seeing him let himself be pinned beneath a handsome man."

"Would you like to be pinned beneath a handsome man?" Rodney asked heatedly as Horus licked a stripe over his nipple and up his pec to leave a mark on his collarbone.

"I'm content just watching this for now," Elwin said, lounging next to them and chewing on fruit like a hedonistic lord of old.

Horus bit a mark into Rodney's abs as he kissed and laved and bit his way down his chest and to the waistband of his trousers. He took a moment to grip and rub at Rodney's hard length through the fabric of his pants as he met Rodney's eyes.

"Is this where you needed your kisses?" Horus asked.

"If it pleases you," Rodney encouraged, hands staying next to his head where Horus had pressed them before he moved down his body.

"It pleases me greatly," Horus admitted and loosened the ties of Rodney's pants, pulling them down just enough for Rodney's cock to spring forth so he could tuck the waistband under his balls to provide the perfect access. He wriggled to get comfortable and stroked from root to tip once before he placed a soft kiss on the tip and then down the side and up the other side and finally, when Rodney was well and truly squirming, took the tip into his mouth to suck on. He took his time. Soft suckling paired with kisses and shallow bobs of his head. Kisses laved over his balls. It was a lazy blow job, despite Rodney's highly evident desire to the contrary.

"So good, Rod," Elwin praised. "Being so good and letting Horus set his pace."

Rodney threw his head back on a groan as Horus took him a little deeper. "Fucking Founder," he groaned.

Elwin silenced him with a kiss, soothing him as much as it riled him.

"El," Rodney moaned when he pulled back.

"So considerate. No wonder you're my Lord Commander. Strong enough to break a man and you let Horus keep you still," Elwin praised again.

"His fucking mouth, El," Rodney groaned. "I'm already so close."

"Are you?" Elwin asked. "Are you going to come in his mouth? Choke him on your spend? Or will you be considerate and ask him if you can come on his face?"

Horus hummed a no and shook his head.

Elwin chuckled as Rodney moaned, hips twitching upwards. "Seems Horus doesn't like that idea either. Guess he wants to taste you. Can you do it? Can you give him your cum?"

"Yes," Rodney said. "Fuck yes, I want it. I'm close. So fucking…" He trailed off as Horus deepthroated him suddenly, taking him deep and choking on his length as it hit the back of his throat.

Rodney came hard.

Horus swallowed everything he could, cum leaking out of the corner of his mouth even as he tried to swallow around the length still in his mouth until he sat back up, lips reddened and spit-slick, cum dripping from the corner of his mouth.

Elwin pulled him immediately into a kiss where he licked the spend from his chin and traded the taste of Rodney back and forth for a moment before letting him go.

Horus kissed Rodney then, a thanks as well as a reaffirmation of affection.

They pulled apart and glanced over to see Elwin stroking himself through his leathers. They shared an amused and hungry look before Horus pulled Elwin closer and pushed him to lay next to Rodney.

Rodney turned onto his side to kiss Elwin as Horus dug for his prize in Elwin's pants, emerging triumphant moments later and licking his lips.

"Wouldn't be fair to leave you out, now would it?" Horus asked.

"Not at all," Elwin agreed.

"Don't hold back," Horus told him as he dove for the cock in his hands. He took his time here as well in a build up that was heated passion but unlike with Rodney he did not draw it out. He wanted to taste Elwin and by the fucking Founder he was going to taste him.

Cocks by and large had similar sensitivities but there were mild differences between Elwin and Rodney, Horus had learned. Rodney liked the slow as much as it frustrated him and he had this spot about three quarters down his length that was more sensitive than usual and Horus always tried to pay that spot special attention as he took him deep. Elwin preferred his head played with. He wanted it suckled, squeezed, and laved, much preferring it to his almost too sensitive balls. While Horus could squeeze Rodney's a bit and roll them in his palm, Elwin preferred a softer touch or it would make him cry out in oversensitivity.

Horus used every trick he had learned in the short time he had been bedding these two and when he stroked over the seam between Elwin's balls, he expected the spurt of cum over his tongue. He knew it would drive Elwin crazy and he was counting on it.

Elwin shook as he came in Horus' mouth then watched as Rodney pulled Horus up and they traded his cum between them before Rodney spit it back in Elwin's mouth and made him swallow it. Elwin moaned at the taste of himself mixed with the other two.

"Give me a minute and I'll return the favor," Elwin said breathlessly.

"No need," Horus assured.

"You sure?" Elwin asked, lifting his head slightly to stare at Horus.

"I'm uh… I'm sure," Horus admitted, flushing darkly.

"Did you make a mess of yourself?" Rodney asked, voice deep and hoarse.

"That was really hot watching you make him swallow his own spend," Horus admitted.

"You came earlier than that," Rodney pointed out knowingly.

"Maybe," Horus allowed.

"Maybe when you were humping the ground like you wanted to fuck it?" Rodney asked, teasingly.

"Probably," Horus admitted, embarrassed.

"Sucking our cocks got you that hot?" Elwin asked.

"Does that really surprise you?" Horus asked.

"No but I like hearing it," Elwin admitted.

"Then yes. Sucking your cocks got me hot enough I humped the ground like an eager dog and came in my pants," Horus admitted blandly.

"Do you want help cleaning up?" Elwin asked lasciviously and Horus huffed and shoved his face away from where it was creeping closer.

"Insatiable," Horus accused.

"He certainly is," Rodney agreed, pulling Elwin down to lounge with him as Horus took his own spot leaning against Rodney's legs.

There wasn't a rush for them to get back, so they could lounge for the morning. And the afternoon. And into the evening. Horus had brought enough for a full day. And he planned to take advantage of it.

Chapter Text

"Stop letting your husband win just cause he's hot, Rod," Horus shouted from where he was watching the two spar while shirtless. He was lounging back chewing on a handful of nuts later in the afternoon.

"Hey," Elwin shouted back, mock offended.

Horus and Rodney both laughed even as Rodney gained the upper hand. Horus had to admit, asking to see the Lord Commander in action and challenging Elwin to prove why the men followed him so eagerly turned out better than he had expected when he had said it. The two had immediately gotten up and started to circle each other with their swords out. Them taking their shirts off was a surprise but Horus wasn't going to complain when he could see the sweat beading on their flushed skin and running paths that Horus wanted, and had in the past, traced with his tongue.

"You seem to be getting distracted," Elwin hollered as Horus missed counting out a strike for him as he had for every other hit.

"Can you blame me?" Horus asked, amused.

Elwin cast a glance at him and winked. "Not with the bulge in Rodney's pants on such stark display."

"Or your own," Rodney countered.

"Sparring gets my blood going," Elwin shot back.

"What else can we do to get your blood going?" Horus asked.

"Too many to name," Elwin answered and put his sword away and rejoined Horus on the blanket, Rodney trailing behind him.

"You seem much more relaxed today," Elwin said as he stole a nut from Horus' hand and popped it into his own mouth.

"Do I?" Horus asked.

"You do," Elwin answered.

"Maybe this is more my scene than the castle," Horus admitted with a wry self-deprecating smirk.

"Then we'll get out of the castle more often," Elwin said.

"We'll need a good scout on the road and for the war ahead," Rodney pointed out.

"Let's see how well Gav did before we make plans to send me out into the wilderness. I don't want him trying to follow me like Torgal does," Horus answered.

"Hati has been better about that too," Rodney pointed out. "He used to not really want to let you out of his sight unless he was with Gav."

"Hati is used to his people disappearing on him," Horus answered sadly. "He was at Phoenix Gate and was in the wilds alone until Cid found him around ten years later. Then Clive came back into his life. Cid… died. Then Clive walked away from home and never came back. It took months to get him to leave the docks and stop looking for him to come back. He's been clingy ever since. I'm surprised he hasn't shown up here but I think he understands that Gav needs protection. And Gav is also almost always with Joshua, Jill, Clive and Torgal."

"What did happen with Cid?" Rodney asked. "If you can talk about it."

"He defected around four years before he died. Started freeing Bearers and building a place in the Deadlands to eke out a life. It was hard. Especially in the beginning. Everything had to be bought. Wood had to be harvested. Bearers had to learn to be free. And nothing grows in the Deadlands. Cid had to design a water filter for us to even have water that wouldn't kill us," Horus admitted.

"How did you get involved?" Elwin asked.

"Cid saved my life," Horus said, fondly, toying with a loose string on the blanket. "I tried to pickpocket him. I was making a living however I could and thievery and telling tales in taverns could get me a drink and sometimes a meal. He caught me and bought me a drink and listened to some wild story about me trying to get through the Greatwood. Highly embellished. He eventually moved on and so did I. I then pickpocketed some Sanbrequois soldiers. I hated them. Still not a fan of them, honestly. But they followed me and chased me out of town and into the nearby woods. They were fully prepared to kill me. Cid stepped in and wiped them out in a single levinstrike. Picked me up off the ground and dusted me off and said he could give me a better way to survive and show the Sanbrequois at the same time."

"Sounds like quite the meeting," Rodney said.

"It was memorable at least," Horus chuckled. "He was like that. Just this… larger than life kind of person. Commanded any room he walked into. Not by force though. Just this… draw to him. People wanted to be seen by him. They wanted to be worthy of his attention." He laughed bitterly. "Or maybe that was just me."

"I don't think it was just you," Elwin said. "He sounds pretty amazing. I'd be interested in meeting him."

"Maybe," Horus said. "He's alive again."

"How would you feel about that? Seeing him again?" Rodney asked.

"I don't know," Horus admitted, frowning in thought. "It'd be harder, I think, than meeting Clive again. Clive… isn't Clive yet. If that makes sense. Cid is more likely to be himself, being older."

"We could be with you," Rodney offered. "If you wanted."

Horus looked up at him shyly. "That would be… better. I think. Having someone else there."

"Then we'll be there," Rodney promised.

"Definitely," Elwin said. "I was considering whether we should reach out to Waloed with Sanbreque's betrayal. They could be helpful in fighting the Iron Blood."

"They could but Barnabas could already be Akashic from what I gathered from Cid last time. He started changing over a decade before Cid left," Horus told them. "Don't trust him. His goals are solely that of his twisted god."

"We'll be careful," Elwin assured.

"Good," Horus said, relaxing slightly and laying back on the blanket with his head on his crossed hands. He closed his eyes as he soaked in the sun and the quiet of the clifftop. He was surprised out of his lazy doze by lips on his own and opened his eye to see Rodney pulling back slightly. He tilted his head questioningly.

"You just looked kissable," Rodney answered.

Horus smirked in amusement. "And how does your husband feel about that?"

"His husband would like to see more of it," Elwin assured.

"Can't go disappointing the audience," Horus said and reached up with one hand to pull Rodney back down into another kiss. Horus made it a show. Tongue coming out to lick Rodney's open and biting his lower lip slightly only to soothe it again with his lips and tongue.

"The audience is very much not disappointed," Elwin said as he watched Horus kiss Rodney so theatrically.

"I am very much not disappointed either," Rodney teased and took Horus' lips again, pressing Horus into the ground with a hand on his cheek and a knee sliding between his legs.

Horus moaned and arched up to rub against the thigh pressed to his groin. He moaned again as he felt a second set of lips on his bare chest, having taken his own shirt off in the heat of the mid day when the others began sparring.

"Think we can talk you into a little field fucking?" Rodney asked.

"Does it need talking?" Horus asked.

Rodney chuckled and went willingly as Horus pulled him down again. "I suppose not," he answered and kissed Horus again.

Horus tangled one hand in each of the other man's hair and held them in place, Rodney's lips on his and Elwin's mouth toying with his nipple as he undulated against the two men.

Horus shivered as the sun started to set and the air cooled on his heated skin.

Elwin's hands went to Horus' trousers and started peeling them down his legs to expose him to the air and their hands.

Horus gasped as Rodney pulled back just far enough to leave biting kisses over his jaw and down his neck even as Elwin did the same down Horus' stomach and to his growing cock.

The sound of a wolf howling and then a puppy yapping, coming closer, stopped all of them in their tracks. Horus pulled his trousers up frantically and they separated slightly as Hati and Torgal came barreling around the corner.

"Hati, Torgal," Gav's voice called.

"Gav, stop! Don't go too far," Hanna shouted as the young boy skidded to a stop, tripping over Torgal and landing on his hands and chest.

"Gav," Horus shouted and jumped up to go help pick him up.

"Uncle Horus!" Gav yelled and jumped up to wrap himself around Horus' belly.

Horus sighed and ruffled Gav's hair. "I didn't expect you here tonight."

"You said three days. It's been tree days. Not three nights," Gav insisted.

"That we did," Elwin said and handed over Horus' shirt so he could get dressed. Horus glanced back to see Rodney cleaning up their day long picnic and both he and Elwin dressed again.

'Thank you,' Horus mouthed silently to Elwin from above Gav's head.

"Gav," Hanna said. "Oh thank goodness," she said as she caught sight of Horus, Elwin, and Rodney.

"Did you go running off on Lady Hanna?" Horus asked pointedly.

"Sorry, Uncle Horus," Gav answered. "I just wanted to make sure Hati and Torgal weren't going to get into trouble."

"You need to apologize for worrying her," Horus told him seriously.

Gav nodded sheepishly and turned around. "I'm sorry for making you worry, Lady Hanna," he said as she joined them along with the others and Sirs Tyler and Wade.

"Hati can look after himself, young man. You are my responsibility," Hanna said and then patted his back. "Next time, don't run off. We can go after them together."

"I won't," Gav promised.

"Good lad," Hanna said.

"We got to the village and they said you'd been out all day," Sir Tyler said with a smirk.

"Just a little picnic and a bit of friendly sparring," Elwin answered.

"Who won?" Joshua asked as they joined the group.

"Rodney," Horus answered as Elwin stated himself.

"He didn't win," Elwin protested.

"Oh he didn't?" Horus asked. "I thought he had ended up on top."

The adults all bit their lips to hold in their chuckles while the children watched them confusedly. Clive flushed darkly and avoided meeting anyone's eyes as he distracted himself by petting Hati.

"Let's just get back to Eastpool," Elwin said as Rodney joined them with the basket and blanket over one arm.

"Of course," Horus agreed and let Gav pull him after him toward the path back to Eastpool. He glanced back to see Rodney smile at him and place an arm around Elwin's waist.

Horus tuned in to the kids telling him about their last few days without him. How Tyler had taken over training but they preferred Horus because he made it 'funner'. How Mayra had pushed herself up and turned over onto her back without help. How they had pushed Hanna to let them leave and then pushed to hurry on to Eastpool instead of staying in the worker's outpost further down the Three Reeds. It was nearly black out when they saw the lights of Eastpool and entered the village.

The Shields nodded to them as they headed toward the Murdoch estate. Tyler and Wade shared a brief exchange with Elwin and Rodney before they split off and the two older men followed the group into the house.

So much for a hot end to the honeymoon. But Horus wouldn't push Gav away for anything. Not even Elwin and Rodney. He hoped the two understood. He thought they did. But Rodney had seemed a little miffed when Gav arrived. Horus really hoped he wasn't angry. Maybe he could slip into their room? He glanced down at Gav who hadn't let go of his hand. Maybe not. Oh well.

Chapter Text

With as late as it was when they arrived back at the house, the kids were ushered off to bed quickly. Horus took the time to say goodnight to Gav as the kids were building another nest on the floor for them all to pile into. Horus rolled his eyes at seeing it and stepped aside for Elwin to enter behind him to say goodnight to his own kids.

"You are cleaning it up before we leave in the morning," Elwin told them amusedly.

"Yes, sir," rang out from all the kids, including Jill. It seemed she had gotten over the biggest of her hang ups about staying with the boys. For now at least.

"We'll be right down the hall if you need us," Elwin told them. "Do try to get some sleep."

Horus hugged Gav tight and kissed his hair. "Give 'em hell in the pillow fight," he whispered in Gav's ear and made the boy laugh before letting him go so he could join the others.

Elwin ushered Horus out after giving his own three children a hug or pat. "What did you tell Gav?" he asked curiously as he shut the door behind them.

"Nothing," Horus smirked and then laughed as there was a small shriek from the bedroom followed by raucous laughter.

"Sure," Elwin said blandly. "Nothing."

Horus chuckled and ushered Elwin away to the kitchen where Hanna was bottle-feeding Mayra while Rodney attempted to cook… something. Horus wasn't sure what. He slunk over to Hanna and took Mayra from her arms as she finished her bottle. Little Mayra screeched and clapped her hands when she saw him, reaching for him with small grasping hands.

"Hey little miss," Horus greeted as she reached for his face and he tried to avoid small sharp fingernails to his sensitive scar even as he peppered her face with kisses.

Elwin made his way over to wrap around Rodney from behind and peer over his shoulder. Horus could see him frown from the corner of his eye.

"What are you doing?" Elwin asked.

"Cooking," Rodney answered.

"Cooking," Elwin repeated. "Cooking… what?"

"A surprise," Rodney answered.

"The surprise will be if it's edible," Elwin muttered and let him go as Rodney tried to elbow him.

Horus stood uncertainly while bouncing Mayra in his arms. It was one thing when it was just the three of them. But with Hanna and the kids in the house, he felt unmoored in some ways. Uncertain of his place. Self conscious of every move.

Elwin glanced back at him and tilted his head in question at Horus' nervous fidgeting.

Horus tried to smile at him and darted a nervous glance at Hanna who was paying them not a lick of attention as she rinsed and washed out Mayra's bottle.

Rodney looked back at the movement and frowned at Horus. It made something in Horus' chest tight and he tried to smile at Rodney but it came across more as a grimace before he shrunk in on himself a little. It didn't make sense. Hanna supported him getting laid by the two men. She had to know why he had been invited along on the honeymoon. But Rodney had seemed angry at being interrupted and then the kids were here and Clive knew or suspected and…

Horus caught Rodney kissing Elwin's temple out of the corner of his eye and looked away. He missed their worried glance before Rodney approached him and jolted slightly as the older man put a hand on his elbow.

Rodney seemed confused, as did Elwin who was minding the stove. Horus didn't have an answer and shrugged while shaking his head and trying to smile again.

Rodney pulled him closer and kissed his forehead before meeting his eyes with the question more than evident in his eyes. Mayra screeched again and reached for Rodney's hair and he smiled at her, blowing a raspberry on her belly.

"Should I let you three alone?" Hanna asked without looking.

Horus jumped slightly and flinched back.

"I think it's going to be an early night for us," Rodney answered. "Can you see to the stove?"

"I've got it," Hanna assured. "Get out of my kitchen."

Elwin squeezed her arm lightly as he passed by in thanks and the two older men ushered Horus back to their bedroom, Mayra still in his arms.

Elwin plucked Mayra from Horus' arms once the door was shut and gave her another kiss on her tummy, only wincing slightly when she pulled his hair.

"Hey," Rodney said, drawing Horus' attention with his hands on the younger man's arms. "What's wrong?" He asked gently.

"Nothing… I don't know. I just…" Horus stumbled over his words and then shook his head.

"Do you not want them to know?" Rodney asked softly.

"No. Yes. I mean, I don't care if they know. It was just…" Horus groaned and rubbed his face and collapsed to sit on the edge of the bed.

Rodney sat next to him and watched him compassionately as he thought.

"It's just… It'd change things, wouldn't it?" Horus asked.

"Would it have to?" Rodney asked.

"What do you mean?" Horus countered.

"Why would it have to change anything? I know you are not unaware of the adults notice of what we've been doing and you joining us here meant," Rodney explained. "Why would anyone knowing something concrete change anything?"

"They just… Well, I mean…" Horus stuttered.

Elwin finally joined them on Horus' other side. "We told you this doesn't have to be a closed thing. You can seek others if that's your concern."

"No," Horus said. "Not right now."

"We aren't expecting your undying love, Horus," Rodney told him. "That's already taken and we aren't trying to take their places. No doubt we couldn't even if we tried. The kids knowing and the others knowing… it doesn't have to change what we had these past few days."

"That Horus was really fun," Elwin added. "It'd be too bad to lose him now."

Horus huffed a sigh as Elwin handed Mayra over and she tugged on his hair.

"You've done so well making sure Gav and Mayra and Clive and Jill and Joshua and everyone else are happy. Don't you think you deserve to be happy too?" Elwin asked.

Horus didn't answer, just closing his arms around Mayra in a hug.

Rodney and Elwin both wrapped an arm around Horus as he sat taking in the comfort of the older men and Mayra's babbling. It was like a warmth in his chest as he basked. It was time to sleep but something in Horus wanted to just sit there and let time hold still for as long as he could.

Chapter Text

Horus eventually loosened his hold on Mayra when she began to bounce on her feet in boredom as he held her up. He sat up from where he had buried his face in her tummy and sighed.

"Alright?" Rodney asked kindly.

"I don't know," Horus answered honestly. "I think I'm gonna have to be."

"No you don't," Elwin reminded. "That's why we're here. To support you when you aren't."

Horus huffed in self reproach and looked over at him sheepishly.

"Do you want your own room?" Rodney asked without judgement.

Horus took a moment before he shook his head. "No. It'll be fine. The ones who matter already know. And the kids won't think anything of it."

Elwin kissed his temple before he stood up and took Mayra from his arms to get her ready for bed.

"Sometimes I wonder which of us is going to be her favorite when he steals her so often," Horus told Rodney with a smirk.

"You still will be," Rodney assured. "Let me get her crib from Hanna's room." Rodney kissed Horus' other temple before he stood up and headed to get the crib and brought it in so Mayra could sleep in their room. While they were handling Mayra, Horus took off the hardest parts of his armor and then cuddled her before putting her to bed and they all fell asleep, clothed, quickly.

The next morning was an early one as they all prepared to move on to Phoenix Gate. The kids were dragging their feet as they put the blanket fort away and climbed into the wagon to be carried on towards the fort. Horus carried Mayra in a sling, better quality one than before but the resemblance to their arrival previously was not lost on him.

"I remember coming through Phoenix Gate when I was sent to Rosalith," Jill said quietly. Only Horus seemed to hear her as she continued. "It seemed much more imposing at the time."

"You were younger," Horus told her. "And alone."

"Yeah. But I'm not anymore," Jill corrected, looking back at him in the wagon.

"You're not anymore," he agreed.

"Do you think I'll ever get back to the Northern Territories?" Jill asked.

"There isn't much to get back to," Horus told her sadly.

"I had heard. That the Blight was encroaching fast. It was why my father sent me to Rosaria," Jill confided.

"Oh?" Horus asked.

"He said if I were a ward of an honorable man like Elwin Rosfield, I'd be taken care of when the Blight got too bad," Jill told him.

"You will be," Horus assured.

"Would it have made a difference, do you think, if they had known I was Shiva?" Jill asked.

"Maybe," Horus said. "But likely not in a way you'd like. They would have put you against the Shields. And against Joshua."

"I don't want to fight," Jill said. "Not against Joshua or Clive."

"And you won't need to," Horus promised. "We're on the same side."

Jill smiled at him and nodded before turning back to the approaching fort.

The gates were opened for the procession and soon the yard was filled with the hustle and bustle of unpacking for the, hopefully, short time they would be at the fort.

"Alright kids, Hanna, let's get you all settled in the fort," Elwin said, clapping his hands as he dismounted and Rodney headed out to handle the rest of the Shields and their assignments. "We will have our belated feast and tomorrow, Joshua will enter the Apodytery."

The kids all nodded and then followed as Elwin led the way into the fort and up to the tower. He directed Jill and Hanna into the room he had given to Horus previously and Joshua was next to them with Clive. Once they were situated, Elwin gestured Horus over to him and into the Archduke's room.

Horus went shyly, Mayra still in his arms and set down the bag with her clothes and bottles.

"I'm impressed," Horus said. "The fort looks in good condition after the fires Sanbreque set last time."

"They've worked hard to rebuild the roofing," Elwin said. "Especially as we pulled more men from here to build up our numbers in Rosalith for the wedding. A fair number of the men we brought with us will not be going back when we are through."

"Good to know," Horus said.

"You had a strange look on your face when I said Joshua would enter the Apodytery tomorrow," Elwin said as he approached Horus to take Mayra and press a casual kiss to Horus' lips.

"Oh?" Horus said. "I was just wondering… Are we sending Joshua in alone?"

"Only Joshua can open the Apodytery and tradition states only the Phoenix can enter," Elwin said. "I'm not pleased about it necessarily. But it is the way things are done."

"Only he can open it?" Horus asked.

"Yes. Why?" Elwin countered.

"Clive opened the Apodytery before and he and Jill and Torgal went in. Said it was filled with enemies but they could have been sent as tests from Ultima for Clive specifically. I wonder if it was the Blessing of the Phoenix or if any Dominant can open it."

"That's…" Elwin started and shook his head. "I shouldn't be surprised by all the things we don't know or know wrong but you still surprise me so often."

"I'm sorry," Horus said sincerely.

"It's hardly your fault. I would rather know than live in ignorance. It's simply… upsetting knowing so much of mine and my family's lives are based on faulty information."

"We can change that," Horus told him. "Maybe. But we are doing better. We can do better," Horus told him.

"Yeah," Elwin sighed. "Yeah we can."

"Can do better what?" Rodney asked as he entered the room.

"Than working off faulty knowledge or assumptions. Apparently Clive can also open the Apodytery," Elwin told him.

Rodney sighed. "That seems… pretty on track for recent events."

"Sorry," Horus apologized with a shrug.

"Hardly your fault," Rodney pointed out. "We'd rather know than not."

Horus just shrugged again in acknowledgement.

"Best get this little lady situated," Elwin said tickling Mayra's feet to get her to scream and clap her hands. "We've a feast to attend. And then perhaps we can take the Dominants to the Apodytery and see who else can open the door," he added lowly. "I don't want to tell the Shields so we'll have to sneak our way down."

"Just like old times," Rodney teased, taking Mayra from Elwin's arms.

"Did a lot of sneaking, did you?" Horus asked, amused.

"I was always meant to be betrothed to a woman. Rodney, much as I love him, is certainly not a woman," Elwin answered.

"No I'm aware. And you wouldn't love him nearly as much if he were, would you?" Horus asked, smirking.

"Probably not," Elwin agreed, laughing.

"Your daddy is silly," Horus heard Rodney whisper to Mayra as he tickled her feet while changing her diaper and dress.

Horus' heart ached at how very much this life felt right and how much he missed his old life less and less. He still loved them all and planned to gather them and help them but there was something about belonging here that was so much better than being Gav the scout. And he felt immensely guilty over it. Except when Mayra laughed like that.