forum "I would burn the world for you" (OxO Closed)

Started December 01, 2022 by @ElderGod-yellowqueen

tune

"I'm okay," Bel reassures, squeezing his brother's bicep before leaning against his strong side. Bel has never been particularly small, but it's clear to see that Miran is much taller, much stronger, much more adept to life on the battlefield. His hands are calloused and lethal while Bel's are smooth and precise. Miran's posture is strong for his commanding presence, Bel's is strong because he trained himself to sit like that. Proper, tall, powerful–at least according the the tutors his father paid for. "I'm okay, Miran."

"I'm so glad," Miran answers, his eyes slipping shut, a few more tears escaping. "Everyone is well. We had no complications arriving, though a few men were particularly hesitant to allow me to lead." He scoffs a little, shaking his head. "Odd considering I know this place as well as Araniel. I was the obvious choice to lead them through the mountains and I did so well and in a much more efficient manner than we would've under the Queen herself's lead." Bel snorts at that. Count on Miran's grand humbleness to shine in moments where Bel needs it most. At least Miran's confidence will never waver. He'll always be the strongest figure in the room. The unbreakable one for all to turn to when it goes to shit.

Bel pulls away from his brother and to Nico, leaning into Nico's touch on the back of his neck. "I'm glad they're all well," Bel says, the end of his sentence tapered by a yawn. "I'm excited to see everyone in the morning. You can likely talk to Sella about arrangements for all the citizens. There should be enough room in the castle, but if they don't wish to part with their tents, there's a private courtyard in the center of the palace grounds they can take residence in." Bel's arm finds a comfortable resting place around Nico's waist. "I'm very happy to see you Miran, but I am exhausted." Miran nods. "I'll be happy to catch up in the morning."

"Alright." Miran looks Bel over a few times, almost ensuring that his younger brother doesn't have any sort of injuries. "Sleep well." His eyes soften as he steps forward to hug Bel one last time before backpedaling the way he came. "Sweet dreams!" A smile crosses his harsh features, making him look far more approachable, far younger, far more naive than a battle hardened soldier. And then Miran's gone through the dining room, the welcoming cries of the rest of Bel's family echoing through the hall.

"To bed–" Bel, practically dead on his feet, finally announces, steering Nico up the stairs, past the puma and into the safety of their room.

Nico did not appear as strong as Miran when standing in his presence. The eldest prince certainly looked bigger than he. They were about the same height but physique wise, Miran appeared to be the strongest. Nico had a bit more of a slender build which gave him a bit of an advantage. He was faster than most of his opponents, not to mention he could take them by surprise. If they didn't know who he was, they never expected him to be as strong and skilled as he was. And he always had his bit of magic he could rely on if necessary, though he hated using it. It was weak and he didn't like being weak. And if his hands were restrained, he couldn't use it anyway so what use would that be for him?

Nico held back a snort at Miran's boasting. He wasn't surprised. His people didn't always take well to outsiders. Especially when it was the technical crown prince of Aranniel and the very monarch they were trying to dismantle. He had a feeling they were a little more just resistant. He only hoped that Ambrose and the others were able to make them fall in line. He would have apologized for their behavior but decided otherwise. Miran's lack of humbleness meant that it was more than deserved. And it was entertaining to him to see the prince's feathers ruffled. Nico gladly pulled Bel back into his side as she returned to Nico. Bel was a little more than just tired and it was time to get him to bed. As much as he knew his fiancé wanted to catch up with his brother and siblings, it would need to wait until morning. Bel needed a good night's sleep. Perhaps he would summon the siblings to their room in the morning for them to catch up while Nico slipped out to check on his men and people. Give them the privacy they needed while also ensuring that Bel was safe and cared for.

He parted with Bel only for a moment so the two siblings could hug. And the moment that Bel stepped back into his arm, he picked up his tired prince, arms under his back and knees. "You, sleep. I'll tuck you into bed, my love." Nico believed in his abilities to undress his fiancé and ready him for bed without disturbing him too much. He just wanted Bel to rest and get the sleep that he needed. It had been a long couple of days. Bel needed the rest. And Nico would watch over him and keep him from harm.

Bel offers one last wave to his receding brother, turning back to Nico with a pleasant sigh. His eyebrows shoot up as Nico suddenly carries him, but Bel certainly doesn't object. He just lazily wraps his arms around Nico's neck and leans into his shoulder. "That sounds nice," he muses quietly, withholding another yawn, his vision blurring just slightly with it. Nico's gait is careful as they make their way up the stairs, Bel offering quiet directions to get them back to their quarters. It's quiet, the puma just watching them with tired eyes as Bel finds the key to their room and slides it into the lock.

Once back in their room, Bel can't help but relax even more. His shoulders deflate, his chin drops, his princely mannerisms drilled into his skull since a child falling away once in the safe privacy of their room. He's set down carefully on the bed, he instantly leans down to unlace his boots and slide them off. Next comes his shirt, still in pristine condition after only being worn for a couple of hours, and then the belt and pants. He considers pajamas, but they don't quite have any and, frankly, he's far too tired to go searching for anything that could be good substitutes.

He thinks of the plan he'll form for the morning. Of course, Miran would be the first arrival. Knowing him, he probably sprinted straight to the palace as soon as it came into sight. The guards would help usher everybody else onto the grounds–they'll all get settled for the night. Bel would meet them all in the morning and catch up. Of course his siblings would be overjoyed of his survival, but he's still unsure about the reaction of Nico's people. They love Nico and Nico loves Bel, but that doesn't instantly make hundreds of angry citizens suddenly love the second eldest son of a cruel king. He prays that something in his skillset will help him win them over. With a snort, he knows that Miran would suggest friendship bracelets, and Bel wouldn't be entirely opposed to the idea.

"Thank you, love," Bel thanks Nico gently with a kiss to the forehead and a smile. He leans back against the pillow and watches Nico lazily, waiting for him to join Bel in bed. Hopefully tonight he'll be able to sleep dreamlessly, peacefully.

Following Bel's instruction, they made it back to their room without any more interference. They found no one else in the halls other than the occasional guard puma. All was quiet. He waited as Bel slipped the key into the door and twisted the knob. Nico pushed the door open and slipped inside, kicking the shut behind him. He walked over to that enormous bed he still hadn't gotten used to and placed Bel gently on the edge. He knelt in front of Bel, taking the laces away from him that he had been untying and began to undo the laces himself. He took off one shoe and then the next before raising to his feet. "Lift your arms," he murmured as he began to tug Bel's shirt over his head. And with quick fingers, he was able to undo the belt and help Bel slide his trousers off his legs.

He leaned down to give him a quick kiss before backing up and taking his own clothes off. He was quick about it but took the time to fold up their clothes and place it on the dresser. He knew Bel would want to save their shirts that had only been worn for dinner. There was no reason why could not be worn again before washing. Not when nothing was done to them to make them dirty. Naked and content, Nico walked back over to the bed and climbed in next to Bel, whom he immediately reached for and gathered him into his arms.

Thoughts of tomorrow were absent in his head. Sure, he did need to prepare himself for it and he would need to meet with Sella about what to do with all of his people. But right now, he had a very naked Bel in his arms and all he wanted to do was enjoy himself. He wanted to hold Bel tight and never let go of him. He had almost lost him. They had been so close to never having this again. They had been minutes away from Nico never being able to hold him or kiss him or breathe him in. Nico curled around Bel, holding him tighter as such thoughts filled his head. He buried his head in his neck, placing a gentle kiss to the skin. He never wanted to let him go.

Bel curls into Nico, tucking his head beneath his chin and wrapping his arms tightly around his chest. With a gentle sigh, Bel breathes Nico in, bathing in the quiet luxury and comfort they're living in. The bed is massive, the blankets are warm and fuzzy. Bel couldn't be any more content to just be laying there. "Goodnight," he mumbles with a yawn, his eyes slipping shut as he uses both Nico and the pillow to cushion his head. It doesn't take long for him to nod off, dragged deep into the depths of wonderful sleep.

However, it doesn't last long. Bel doesn't know how long it has been since he had fallen asleep, but he's quickly woken by a series of violent, gruesome images floating through his mind. There's Miran with an arrow through his heart, still standing shakily on the battlefield with corpses littering his feet. Bel doesn't know if Miran had killed them, or if they had died protecting him. Both options are terrible, terrifying, but nothing can top the haunted look in Miran's eyes as he stares at Bel and murmurs you could've stopped this. Bel wakes with a gasp, sitting up and letting his eyes well with unshed tears. He can smell blood. He can feel his own boiling beneath his skin.

His eyes find Nico, a swell of guilt washing over Bel's mind. He should've given Nico the sleeping tonic before they went to bed. Nico should be sleeping and not having to worry about the childish dreams that continue to mess with Bel night after night. "I'm sorry–" he says, voice breaking as he hurriedly wipes the tears from his eyes. He's weak, gods, he's so, so very weak. He can't hold his own in a fight, he has night terrors like a child, he has to have others protect him from threats that could overpower him in an instant–what use will Bel ever be if he can't even function without breaking down? What use is he supposed to be as a prince if he doesn't even know how to control himself?

(Ahhh noooo, my baby! It's okay don't cry)

For Nico, the bed was a bit to soft for him to find comfort under the layers of blankets and sheets. He was used to a firm bed and scratchy sheets with only one or two good blankets. He had always given his things to those that had needed it, and taking the other option. It meant that he suffered some but it was what he had gotten used to. This, on the other hand, was entirely new to him and he was certainly still adjusting to it. Two nights in this bed wouldn't instantly make him love. But then again, it allowed him to have Bel in his arms so he supposed he could learn to.

While his eyes remained closed, he didn't find his sleep, not yet. Not even as he felt Bel drift off in his arms. Nico had too many thoughts running through his head, most of then consisting of what to do with his people and how the gods did he want to propose to Bel. The right way, of course, but what was the right way? Was it a grand gesture in front of the entire kingdom where he proposed his love? No, it wasn't that. Bel might just say no if he did that. So a more private affair it was. Should ut be just the two of them or should his family be there to share this with them? He should ask Miran for Bel's hand. He was marrying Bel either way of course, but it was the right thing to do. Should he scatter rose petals? In the garden or by the fountain? So many choices and ones he didn't know how to make.

Wfpre he could get much further in this downward spiral of thought, Bel ripped out of his arms and sat straight up in bed with a gasp. All thoughts vanished other than his concern for Bel. At first he thought it was his illness causing him pain, until he saw the look in his eyes and understood that it was nightmares plaguing his mind. Nico knew that all too well. They often plagued his own mind. He simply sat up and bundled Bel in his arms, kissing the top of his head. He shifted them so that Nico was leaning back ahsidnt the headboard and Bel was laying on his chest. "There is nothing to be sorry for," he murmured, stroking his back soothingly. "Would you like to tell me about it?"

Bel tries so desperately to keep his breaths quiet, to keep them measured and hope that they finally slow down. His hands shake, his eyes blur, his thoughts race–the memories are already beginning to fade from his mind, nothing left of the dream but cold terror. "I don't know–" he manages to choke through a withheld sob. "I don't remember–" Because now the entire dream is gone from his mind. That doesn't aid his shaking hands, his thundering heart. "Why can't I be stronger?" he seethes, trying so hard to restrain himself from sobbing. Bel always knew that he was weak. Weaker than his siblings, weaker than even the smallest squire, weaker than any figure that holds an ounce of power. Bel would crumble under that weight. He'll bruise and bleed and cry because he doesn't know how to protect himself.

He's so tired of being saved. He's so so tired of having to be held after a nightmare while he sleeps through Nico's terror. He's tired of coughing up blood. He's tired of having his hands tied and not knowing how to undo the knot.

With his heart balling in his throat, Bel decides that he won't be helpless anymore. He'll ask Loven in the morning if she'd be willing to help him train. She bares no blood relation to Bel. She won't go easy on him because he's a prince. She won't hold back her blows because Bel is too weak. He'll need to learn how to use more than a bow if he wants to keep himself useful. He'll need knives and his fists and different maneuvers that'll help him with the upper hand. He knows it won't be too difficult for him to build muscle. All it will require is time and for him to step back from his hobbies and… well, step back a little from Nico. As much as he loves the other man, they both need to be able to function on their own. Co-dependency is a dangerous thing, especially with such powerful men. And now, there'll be even more of a target on Bel's neck, especially with the looming marriage and the reconnection with Blakkast.

"Just go back to bed," with a plan in mind, Bel's voice is much more controlled. His heart slowly calms down as he closes his eyes, resting against Nico's chest. The heartbeat through his chest is soothing, a steady metronome that lulls Bel back into the depths of sleep. Before he can fully succumb, he manages to whisper: "please take a few drops of the tonic. You need to sleep too."

(Shhhhhh let Nico be delulu with his codependency issues)

Nico pulled the blankets over them, bundling up Bel completely. Every inch of him was shaking and Nico didn't know what he could do to help other than to hold him. He placed one hand on the back of Bel's head, cradling him to his chest. He rocked them gently, trying to provide a calming touch. "Shh," he murmured. "It's alright, it's okay." He knew it wasn't alright, not if it caused this reaction in him. "I am here for you. You don't need to remember to talk about it." He gripped Bel's chin, making him look up at him. "You can tell me about your feelings, we can walk through them. Or we can just lie here together. Whatever you need."

Nico had never cared how physically or mentally strong Bel was. He was more than content to be strong for both of them. He was more than willing to provide a shield and protect him from harm. Bel was there for him in other ways. Bel had showed him that the world could be kind. He had provided support and had been there through his own struggles. He never shied away. Without him, he would have still been on a crusade to rid the world of Bel's father and his followers. Because of Bel, he now advected for peace. His father had to die, there was not other option, but he no longer desired to head in with blades raised and eradicate them all. If Bel could be good in that horrible palace, then certainly there were others as well. They need not all to die.

Nico looked down at him with concern as Bel resembled calmness. He didn't trust it. Not after the hysteria he had just witnessed. Something was wrong but he knew badgering him for the answer would get him nowhere. Not tonight. Nico was not taking that tonic. Not tonight. Not when he worried that bel might wake up in another frenzy. But he promised he wouldn't tell anymore lies, so he simply did not answer. "I love you, my sweet Bel, and I am here when you wish to talk."

(aslkdflja Nico buddy this is not healthy in the slightest)

"Please sleep," Bel mutters just before he drifts away. "Sleep for me." He knows it's a low blow, but he won't have Nico exhausted and dead on his feet when he reconnects with his people. If Nico refuses in the future, Bel just might have to tackle him and shove the drops down his throat to ensure he'll actually get a recommended dose of rest. It's baffling how Nico has managed to work this long with so little sleep. It's unhealthy. There's a lot of things in Bel's life that have surface, things that have revealed themselves as venomous. As much as he loves Nico, this devotion terrifies him. Is he really going to want to spend eternity with the man who would slaughter thousands for him? Well. He can't exactly leave. Not when there's so much depending on the outcome of the Araniel siege. Not when there's so much depending on Bel and Nico.

The rest of Bel's sleep is without nightmares, something about his sudden resolve helping greatly with his ease. He awakes without noise or movement, his eyes carefully blinking open to take in the morning light seeping through the curtains. Before he can do anything else, Bel begins to craft a brief to-do list in his mind. He has to ask Loven if she'd be willing to mentor him. He has to catch up with his siblings to ensure he hasn't died yet. He has to tell his family that he's engaged to Nico. He can only hope that Miran will take it well. He's always been the most vocal of his opinions.

Bel shifts, still locked in Nico's arms and manages to sit up. He'll need to get dressed and prepared for the day, but only after a proper shower and maybe a shave. He looks to Nico, unsurprisingly still awake and eyes red with a sleepless night. Bel purses his lips. "Why didn't you take the drought?" he asks gently, pressing a kiss to Nico's forehead. "It'll only help you, love. I would never give you anything to harm you."

Nico inhaled sharply. He knew exactly was Bel was doing, and if he hadn't been so worried about him, it would have worked. As it was, Nico was very concerned about Bel. He didn't often wake from nightmares and his reaction had rattled Nico some. And it had rattled him even more how he had assumedly gotten over his nightmare. He didn't believe it for a moment. He could see the gears turning in his head and it was a struggle not to try and pick them apart. He wanted to know what Bel was thinking so he could find a way to fix it all. So he did not take his tonic which was sitting on the small bedside table. No, he watched Bel fall back into a slumber, stroking his back gently and massaging his scalp with the other hand. He stayed like that all night long.

He managed to catch a couple hours of sleep but his worry over Bel had kept him up. The slightest movement from Bel and his eyes were shooting awake and watching him to make sure he wasn't having another nightmare. His neck and back were stiff from his position on the bed. He was still sitting back against the headboard all night. But the slight discomfort was worth it if it meant he could watch Bel for the rest of the night. He wasn't trying to do it in a creepy sort of way. But Bel was distressed over his nightmare. And high emotions would flare up his illness. He worried about his health, mentally and physically.

Nico loosened his grip on Bel as the morning came and his prince moved to sit up in his arms. His grip loosened but he didn't let go of him. He smiled softly, eyes fluttering shut as Bel pressed a kiss to his head. "I wanted to make sure you were okay. It's hard to wake up with the drought. I wanted to make sure I was here if you needed me." He leaned in to press a quick kiss to his lip. "I'll nap later today and I'll take it tonight. How does that sound?" His nap would likely be a thirty-minute cat nap but a nap all the same. "Come on, you need to take your medicine first before you do anything else today."

Bel's face screws slightly upon hearing Nico's reasoning. "I'm fine. I'm more than fine." He practically huffs. He runs his hands through his hair, still not entirely used to the feeling of it being loose and curly. He wriggles out of Nico's arms, pushing the comforter down and standing. The air is cold on his bare body, causing the prince to quickly reach for a robe in order to begin searching for his outfit for the day. "Nico, I love you, but I don't need you sacrificing your own health to help me through something as measly as a bad dream." Before Nico can even bring up the topic of his illness, Bel speaks. "What happened to me two nights ago was a build-up of twenty-two years of stress. I'm medicated now, they've removed the clot, and I'm healthy, It's going to take at least another year for it to build up to be even close to that bad again." And even then, that'll only be extreme circumstances. He's managed to deduce that he's lucky enough to have a mild variant, unlike his poor cousin Ianna who has to suffer with a mask over the lower portion of her face.

Bel quickly sorts through the clothes, finding an appropriate top and trousers to pair. He dresses quickly and fixes his hair in the mirror. "I appreciate you at least trying to get rest," Bel's eyes soften as he meets Nico's through the mirror. "But a nap won't be nearly enough. You must have a coherent sleep schedule if you want to be an effective leader, Nico." Bel doesn't need him doting on him while he sleeps. He doesn't need Nico standing guard when there's already a feline sentry posted outside. He doesn't need any assistance doing things he should know how to do–"I have a few errands to run today and people to speak with. Will you be alright spending the day with your party? I'm sure they're excited to see you again." All of Nico's friends are probably buzzing with nerves in a brand new place without their leader. Well, not that they would show it. They're the soldiers. The ones who can fight. The ones who can take care of themselves.

Bel sighs and rubs at his eyes. He's so tired. He can't wait to get the day started and over with.

Nico dropped his arms to his side as Bel wiggled out of them. He watched him stand and move to get a robe, distracted just a moment by Bel's other amenities. He couldn't help that his perfect little butt was in view. But it wasn't enough to distract Nico from the conversation at hand. He listened as Bel spoke, not making a sound, not changing facial expressions but it felt like daggers thrusting into his heart over and over again. He hadn't realized Bel was feeling this way. How long had this been pent up? It had to have been building for a while, this didn't just come out of nowhere. What Bel failed to realize was the absolute terror Nico had felt watching Bel die and there had been nothing he could do about it. He was still grasping the reality that there were somethings that he was powerless to do. And he had been powerless to save Bel. It was only by a miracle he had made it to the palace in time so that someone trained for this could save him. If it had happened moments later, if it had happened hours later, he would have had to hold Bel as he died in his arms. There was no healer, magic or otherwise, in his possession that would have saved him.

But he didn't say of this. He simply let Bel speak. He did climb out of bed, and where Bel had bothered with a robe, he did not. He strode over to Bel in his naked glory and planted a kiss on the top of his head. "You do not need to worry about me, darling." He would survive just fine on little sleep. This hadn't been the first time nor would it be the last. "Go see your siblings first before you do anything else today. They've been worried about you." That was the most important thing for Bel to do today. His other errands could come later. And Nico did need to go visit his men and people. That had been the plan for the day anyway, now it would just be without Bel. it wasn't the end of the world. He would be able to handle it, hopefully.

"Will you at least promise me that if you leave the palace grounds you'll take a guard or your brother with you?" He would feel better knowing that Bel had some sort of protection with him. Someone to watch his back and just keep him company.

Bel could almost laugh at Nico's statement. "I don't think you understand–" Bel turns, grabbing Nico's face with both his hands. "I am not going to just not worry about you. That's not how it works. It makes me sick to know how you sacrifice your health to watch me while I sleep." And it's not the fact that Nico watches him–no, Bel doesn't mind that. He doesn't mind that Nico is there when he is awake. Bel just cares that Nico is spending all of his time when he should be resting just… fretting over Bel's health, especially when he's healthy again. "I am always going to worry about you, and it's not going to go away because you say that you can handle yourself just fine without sleeping." Bel holds Nico's face a little tighter before dropping his hands. "I won't have a damn martyr for a husband."

Bel finishes his morning routine with a relatively somber look in his expression. First step of the day: ask Loven about potential training. Her military prowess and lack of concrete relation to Bel should be great factors for a teacher. He won't have to worry about her going easy on him. She's more than qualified really. Next step on the agenda is to meet his siblings and announce his engagement… or maybe… well, he might wait on that. Something about Miran's potential angry disproval causes his heart to drop. He doesn't want to see the quiet rage in Treya's eyes or the disappointed shake of Valera's head. Today will be for joy. Today will be for reuniting. Perhaps after Nico and Bel have more details Bel will tell his siblings. After all, he'll be the first to get married for love rather than politics in his bloodline. The thought is refreshing and terrifying all at once.

Finished at last, Bel steps away from the mirror and finds Nico, pressing a quick kiss to his lips before stepping back. "Think about what I've said, alright? Promise me that you'll at least try and take care of yourself?" He tries to offer at least a hopeful smile. "And I won't go anywhere where I'll be in danger, I'll be able to promise you at least that, okay?" His hand moves from Nico's cheek to his bicep, squeezing softly before allowing his hand to drop. "I should be back here by lunch if you'd like to meet in the courtyard for that. My siblings will probably be with me. You could bring a few friends if you would like too."

Nico placed his hands on Bel's waist as he whirled around and grabbed Nico's face. He would always worry about Bel. He would always fret over him and his illness would always be a worry in the back of his head, creeping in whenever Bel over did himself or was stressed out. The images of Bel dying on that table were etched into his brain. The images of Bel being cut open to drain the clots would haunt his dreams as long as he lived. He reached for Bel as he moved away from him and brought him back to Nico's chest. He cupped his cheeks firmly, keeping him from moving away from him if he tried too. "A compromise, then, my love. I will take care of my well-being as long as you do the same, and you tell me when you are stressed out or bothered or just something going on." He hoped this would spur him to speak about whatever was going on in that head of his.

He released Bel and stepped back, mostly watching as his partner readied for the day. He pulled on his trousers and was content to watch from his spot on the bed. His brows were furrowed as he was deep in thought. He didn't understand what had brought all of this on. Something had happened last night when Bel had his nightmare. There had been a shift in Bel that he didn't know and it had created a knot in his stomach with the anxiety of the unknown. He wanted to pick apart his brain and figure out every piece of this puzzle. He didn't like not having control of a situation, and right now, he had no control.

He pulled Bel in for a longer kiss, unsatisfied with the small one he had given Nico. "I will be just fine, my love.' He looked up at Bel from where he was still seated on the bed. He was not entirely satisfied with that answer. He wanted Bel to be safe. As a prince, he should be with a guard. There was always someone who wanted to hurt the royal family. It was just how it was. He worried that someone might try to bring harm to Bel. But he knew fighting on this now would only cause further discourse between the two of them. "I will see you for lunch then, my love. Don't stay away too long."

"A compromise would be great," Bel says, at least thankful that he managed to get through to Nico in the first place. They can work on other things in the future. Bel might be able to get past the savior complex forming somewhere in Nico's skull, the complex that he has to be the one suffering for he's the one who deserves it–Which isn't true. Nico doesn't deserve it. He's confident and calculating and bold and wise and seasoned–well, quite a contrast from Bel's own character. But not forever. Bel's determined to at least change part of himself. If he's able to defend himself, then Nico won't have to worry as much. He won't have to constantly fret over a weak, pretty prince who has a thousand eyes on him at all times. "I'll see you later, love." Leaning into their parting kiss, Bel then steps back, leaving the key on the entry table and checking his appearance one last time in the mirror before setting out.

He stops to pet the puma on the head, which it at least appreciates, before Bel descends the stairs and finds his cousins all around the breakfast table, their conversations just as joyous and loud as the night before. However, where Nico and Bel had sat the night before, Bel's siblings take up the area, all of them absently picking at their plates. Sella's conversation halts, all of the queen's attention suddenly on Bel. It's Miran who stands first, grabbing Bel in another hug before allowing his sisters to do the same. Treya grabs his arm, already leading him through the room and to the door. Well. Apparently they're going out to eat for breakfast. It'll be nice. The first time alone with his siblings he's had since a lot of this ordeal started.

Of course, Val demands details, and Bel is forced to give them. He tells them of his illness, how it's mild compared to what it could've been. His intense reaction had been a twenty-two year build-up. It had just chosen a horrid time to act up. Bel doesn't tell them about the symptoms that had been accumulating for weeks beforehand. He doesn't want them to worry, not when there's more pressing matters. After discussing his illness, Bel is quick to change the subject, instead pushing it onto his sisters for them to vent about how their respective kingdoms of marriage are coming along.

Nico was reluctant to let Bel go. He wanted to bring him back into his arms, shed their clothes and fall back into bed and laze away the morning. How long had it been since Nico had truly done that? Spent the entire morning in bed with the one he loved. He didn't think he ever truly had. And it was all so tempting, especially with whatever was going on with Bel. Perhaps a morning of soft touches and sweet kisses would have been enough to get his little prince to open up about what was truly bothering him. He had to be careful about coaxing it out of him. Push too hard and Bel would completely shut him out. He was stubborn like that. A trait Nico both admired and despised.

Once the door clicked shut and Bel had departed, Nico fell back on the bed with a groan, staring up at the ceiling. He was trying to find the strength to get up. He needed to check on his people and see how well they were faring. He needed to sit down with his men and get a report on how the journey went after he left. And he needed to reassure them that Bel was alright and had recovered. He was in good spirits and wasn't in danger of another episode. At least, Nico hoped he wasn't. The problem was that he was more tired than he had let on to Bel. Tired wasn't the correct word. He was exhausted. But he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep. Not in that bed, at least, without Bel. It was too soft for him to truly be able to sleep in without holding Bel. If he did rest, it would likely be wherever his people had made camp. Which led him to his first line of business, discussing with Sella on where to put them all.

It was with that line of thought that he stood and finished getting ready for the morning. He didn't take nearly as much time as Bel did. he didn't care as much about his appearance. Without Bel to braid his hair, he tied it back at the nap of his neck after giving it a brush. He tied his boots and then he was out the door, walking down the path he remembered to the dining room. There was still time for breakfast and he figured the Queen would be seated there with her family. He hoped to be able to ask for a private audience with her.

Bel and his siblings spend the rest of the morning speaking pleasantly amongst each other. Bel even coaxes Val to say more than five words. She's speaking in full sentences! It's practically a miracle, just the pick-up he requires after a particularly troubling night. Miran does stop Treya's tirade about magic with a glare. They're not in a place nor a good time to be speaking of military measures against mages, especially not in such a magic-friendly kingdom. Treya shuts her mouth with a click and spends the next few minutes pouting, but eventually she's drawn back into the conversation. Miran's laugh is loud and loose, unlike anything Bel has heard before. Val doesn't make an effort to hide her smiles. Treya's posture isn't rigid, lady-like—Bel just wishes that the sooner the day wears on, the more he'll be able to finally relax. Maybe.

It's reaching just before noon when they finally rise from their table, tipping far more than generously, and taking small boxes of their leftovers to go. Bel finds himself between Miran and Val with Treya treading just in front of them. She twirls to face them, her bright yellow sundress whirling around her. She's smiling and running her fingers through her hair and then asking if Bel could perhaps redo it when they have the time. Bel agrees. They'll be in Blakkast for three months, after all, that should leave plenty of time for him to spend some quality time with all his siblings. That also leaves plenty of time for him to tell them about his impending marriage. To the heir. To the throne that threatens theirs. Yeah. This should all be fine. His siblings are understanding, they love him, they'll understand–

Miran must sense his sudden unease, for he lightly checks Bel's side with his own. Bel smiles. At least his brother knows how to knock him out of his mind. They find their way back to the palace, entering through the guarded doors without trouble. Bel excuses himself from his siblings, promising to find them before lunch starts.

He makes his way to the throne room, luckily finding Sella and Loven without any audience. They sit in twin thrones, Sella's legs drawn up against her chest and silver crown slightly lopsided atop her cornrows. Loven wears no indication of royalty, but her posture speaks plenty of her power. Bel's footsteps indicate his presence, both women looking up to find him standing in the massive doorway.

"Hello," Loven is the one to speak. "Did you enjoy your morning out, Bel?"

He nods, hiding his smile behind his hand. "Yes. It was… it was great. I think I missed my siblings all together more than I realized." He stops his reminiscing with a shake of his head. "And Loven–I was wondering if you'd be willing to do be a great favor." The redhead raises an eyebrow. Sella purses her lips, equally as fascinated despite not being addressed. "I was wondering if you'd be willing to train me in combat." Loven's eyes widen. "I'm… I'm weak, Loven, and I need someone who will be a strict mentor. I need someone who has no blood relation to me. Someone who won't go easy on me because I'm royal–"

"I'll be happy to." Loven finally interrupts Bel's rambling with a smile. "What do you say about meeting tomorrow morning in the courtyard. I can show you to some training grounds where we won't be bothered, if that's alright."

Bel's smile can't be hidden. "That sounds great. Thank you Loven." And he ducks out of the throne room, weaving through the halls to the courtyard to meet with Nico. After all, lunch is approaching.

(That's a lot. And my brain no working so this will be shorter ahdsfuhejjerf)

Nico spent most of his morning talking with his people and getting them situated. Those that wished to stay in the palace, he arranged to have space made for them. But for many of his soldiers, which was most of his people, chose the barracks. Wherever there was room for them, they would take it. Even if they were several people to a room. It was more comfortable there for them, surrounded by other soldiers and a similar routine that they knew and understood. It was mostly just the families in his party that chose the palace over all other options. It meant more children in the palace, and hopefully more friends for the children of the royal family. Gods knew they needed it.

He spoke with his inner circle, getting a detailed account of the rest of the trip went in his absence. Despite the growing unease, it had gone decently well. There hadn't been many issues on the road, and concern for Bel and Nico himself had overridden their distrust for Miran and his siblings. Perhaps it might be the very thing that put them closer together. But there could only be one ruler, and Nico would be the one sitting on his throne, with Bel at his side. He thought about how Bel would look with a crown on. And then he had to stop thinking about how Bel would look in a crown. His friends would tease him mercilessly if they noticed the effect Bel had on him when he wasn't even here with them.

As morning bled into noon, he said his goodbyes and departed from them. Whilst he would have loved to invite them to lunch, he could see they were still settling in. They looked as uneasy and as unsure as he had felt that first night. How he still felt at times. He wondered if that feeling would ever get better or if he would be plagued with it for the entirety of his stay here. He prayed it would improve. He didn't like feeling like this. It only made it so much worse when he didn't have control over the situation.

He exited the barracks, taking his time, despite his want to get back to Bel. Nico was curious how their soldiers ran. He planned to start in on their training now that Bel was better settled, with the assumption that no more nightmares kept Bel from his sleep. He needed to train his body, keep it strong. And he needed to use his magic, no matter how much he hated it. He could feel it building up inside of him, begging for a release. He hadn't used it in ages. He would face the consequences soon enough if he didn't use it.

As he's heading to the courtyard, the massive clock on the belltower reaching noon, Bel finds his siblings all crammed on a bench together, shifting and shoving each other with small smiles as they try to get comfortably situated. "Plenty of room–" Miran says, his almost boyish smile flashing across his face. Bel laughs and sits gently on the arm of the bench. Treya shoves Val a little bit and Val retaliates by shoving Miran a little harder. Miran's sudden surge into Bel's side almost causes him to fall off his precarious perch, but his older brother quickly reaches an arm out to steady him. "Careful there, wouldn't want you to wrinkle your new shirt–" Miran teases and Bel shoves him right back.

It's just a domino effect of childish roughhousing, but they at least manage to remain somewhat civilized. When he's had his fill, Bel stands from the bench and looks around the courtyard, visibly brightening as he locates Nico entering on the other side. He excuses himself from his siblings and quickly crosses the grass to meet Nico. "Afternoon, good sir," Bel greets, ducking into Nico's side. "How was your morning?" He can't help the small pang of guilt that wracks through him as he remembers how he left Nico that morning. He had been… terse, and cautious, and a little frustrated over the nature of his forgotten nightmare. Hopefully tonight he'll be able to sleep better. He won't be worrying Nico. Probably. It feels everything he'll ever do will somehow worry Nico, raising the question of if it would even be a good idea at all to tell Nico about his morning training with Loven. He'll miss their lazy time in bed, but in Bel's eyes it'll be worth it. He'll be lifting his own burden and ensuring that he's not dead weight on Nico, Miran, and Sella's shoulders. Bel looks over to his siblings. At least Val has the decency to act like she isn't staring, unlike Bel's other two, much less subtle relatives.

"Is everyone well?" Bel asks, turning back to Nico. Knowing him, he was likely concerned for his men, especially in such foreign territory and with such suspicious company. Laurent, Cassian, Ambrose, Braxton, Kaillas–all of them and their people. Miran and Sella had safely brought them to the palace, so he doubts it could've gone too horribly.

(Well, hello there. I am alive hsddkhkjtjnqerr)

Nico most certainly did notice the playful sibling banter and fighting. It was the sort of thing that made him wish that he had siblings of his own, before his mother had passed. But he had his brother in arms, and they were more family to him than perhaps his own mother had been. He didn't know what he would do without his brothers. He hung back for a moment, not wanting to interrupt them. But Bel as usual seemed to be able to sense his presence and came bounding over. He ignored Bel's siblings as they were a little less than subtle on their staring. He didn't particularly care. he loved Bel. If they didn't like it, they could shove it up their ass.

He wrapped his arm around Bel as he came over to his side. Nico dropped a small kiss on the top of his head. Bel was certainly in a much better mood now than this morning. Something about his nightmare last night had stuck with him, even if he claimed he hadn't remembered it. Nico was going to get to the bottom of it. He didn't like secrets. They had promised no secrets. He wasn't mad that Bel was keeping something from him, just hurt that Bel felt like he needed to. "It was good. I checked in on everyone, helped a few of them move to the palace. Most of them are camping out in the barracks, though, wherever there's room. It's where they're most comfortable. With time, they'll open up and things will run smoother." Knowing his luck, it likely wouldn't happen until their three months were up and it was time to head out once more. "Give them time and they'll fit right in. Most of them are a little more sociable than you are, my love." He pinched his side teasingly.

"How was your morning?" He asked, "Get up to any trouble today? I supposed the day is still young if you haven't yet." He said this as if he wasn't the troublemaker. Trouble could come later. Perhaps he and his inner circle, his brothers, would go out into the city and drink the night away in a week or so. But Bel came first, and right now, Nico was concerned about him.

(lajsdf hey bestie)

Bel smiles softly as Nico speaks, soaking in every word. "I'm glad they're all well. If they ever need anything, please make sure to tell me. I want their stay in Blakkast to be as comfortable as ours. Not to mention our stay is going to be three months." Bel's lips purse gently. If they're to be married here, then they'll have to get to planning quickly. That also means telling his siblings. while Bel knows they love him, just as Bel loves them, he's scared that they won't react well. They have never been the most adamant people to change. Bel's half convinced Miran would challenge Nico to a duel just to convince himself that Nico's worthy. But Miran also witnessed Nico save Bel's life not even two days ago. Bel prays that that would be enough to convince his older brother of his fiance's worth. Not that Bel needs Miran's approval for marriage… but it's the closest thing to a parental blessing he'll ever get.

With his arm linked with Nico's he brings him closer to his siblings. Nico's, well, never quite had the chance to bond with any of his siblings in a non-hostile environment. Sella and Loven have been lovely hosts, but even the two of them are still somewhat strangers to Bel. Maybe this lunch with his siblings will be the step necessary for Bel to announce their engagement and lessen his fears. "I hope you don't mind more spicy cuisine," Bel says as they approach their siblings. "Miran has insisted we go to his favorite restaurant in the city." Miran smiles, though tight, when his name is mentioned. He stands from the bench, Bel's sisters quickly following the eldest's lead. Their smiles are gone. Bel hopes that they'll return sometime through their meal.

Miran nods at Nico, his carefree and boyish grin absent and replaced by a sturdy expression of stone. Val and Treya fade into the background naturally, falling into step behind the three leading men as Miran guides the way to his favorite restaurant. "How are your people?" Miran asks, finally breaking the silence so Bel doesn't have to. "They insisted on getting situated in the barracks despite my insistence." He purses his lips and shrugs. "I suppose they'd just like to stick together in a foreign territory. I can understand their unease." Miran is speaking in the way Bel doesn't like. His words are clipped, accented with a tone too similar to their father. His back is straight. His chin is level. His shoulders are tense. One day Bel hopes that Miran will warm up to Nico, especially since Nico shows no sign of leaving anytime soon.

Nico smiled gently at Bel. He felt like he was walking on eggshells around him. One wrong move, one wrong word he would set Bel off again like he had done last night. He didn't want a repeat of that. Or this morning. He would have to tread carefully from now on. At least until he got to the bottom of things. "I will come to you if they need anything. Though I can't promise how willing they will be to admit that they need something." His people were somewhat stubborn folk and didn't like to admit it when they needed something, especially to the strangers they were suddenly living with. Nico wasn't much better. If anything, he was much worse. He couldn't be too mad at them when he would likely do the same. But he would continuously check up on them. And he knew Ambrose would come to him if anyone was in dire need of something. Or if they just wanted something. His other men were not as likely to come to him.

Nico took Bel's arm as Bel led him over to his siblings. Miran was the only one attempting to be nice. His two sisters had long lost those smiles he had spied on when he first entered the courtyard. They didn't like him. That was alright. He wasn't the biggest fan of them either. Miran, especially, after he attempted to take Bel away from him. The only way that Bel was leaving him was if Bel wanted to leave. And Nico prayed that day never came. "I'm sure I can find something a little more mild to eat for lunch. Or you all to get to make fun of how red I get I can't handle my spice." He was looking at Bel, not at the rest of them. If they wanted to ignore him, that was fine by him. They could only ignore Nico for so long. Soon, he would be family, whether they liked it or not.

Nico turned to look at Miran. "They are fine, adjusting." He matched Miran's tone. Short, formal. It wasn't as if Nico hadn't just saved Bel's life or anything like that. "I'm not surprised they chose to stay in the barracks. It's what they know. It's what they're comfortable with. The few families have decided to settle in the palace but the rest will likely stay in the barracks. They are soldiers first. They want to surround themselves with other soldiers." And perhaps it would help them integrate into society a little better, if they could make friends with the palace guards. "They'll warm up quickly. There's no reason to worry about them." Perhaps it was a low dig, as Miran and his siblings hadn't even warmed up to Nico just yet. He was insulating that his people were better at adapting than Miran and his sisters.

Bel instantly notices the shift in demeanor from both his brother and his partner with a small frown. Of course he hasn't expected them to instantly get along, but they should be better than this. Especially with the low digs. With a small roll of his eyes, Bel elbows Nico in the ribs. Be nice, he wants to shout, but settles with a glare in his brother's direction. Miran's expression momentarily sours, but it does away after the eldest takes a deep breath and cracks his neck gently. His posture slightly slackens, but there's still a tension in his shoulders that Bel wishes he was able to somehow relieve. Bel prays that they'll at least be able to get along, but it isn't just a one-way street. Nico needs to trust them. His siblings need to let down their walls. For him at least.

"I'm not worried," Miran answers, his tone smoother than it had been. "They have their leader whom they trust." Bel blinks, wondering if he just overheard one of MIran's rare, rare compliments. Maybe… maybe getting Miran to come around won't be nearly as hard as he thought. He spares a quick glance back at his sisters, knowing that they have already retreated deep into their public personas. From an outsider's point of view, it would be easy to peg the princesses as stuck-up assholes who turn their nose at anybody not of royal blood, but Bel knows it's much deeper than that. They're quiet because it's a princess's job to be seen, not heard. They're faces are cold because it's been a long time since they've been able to show warmth to strangers. Bel wishes he can find the words to explain it to Nico, but it's not nearly the right time. Maybe later. Maybe then Bel can convince Nico to give them all a chance.

Miran leads the way through the courtyard and into the streets connected right outside of the palace. Bel once again is taken aback by how close everything is to the homes of the monarchs. Back in Araniel, everything had been behind tall stone walls. Bel had been separated from everything that wasn't already approved by his father. Bel quickly pushes any thought of his father from his mind. It's the perfect way to ruin his mood and Bel just wants to have a nice lunch out with his family and love. The restaurant is close, the building with a large outdoor seating area and a smaller indoor bar and booths. Miran greets the hostess with a practiced smile. She knows his name. Miran pretends to know hers. They're led back into a comfortable area, to a rounded booth around a circular table. Miran takes the center seat, Val and Treya to his right and leaves Bel and Nico to his left. The waitress immediately brings out some water for them all to sip on and a group of menus. Most of the food is spicy, but there are a few tamer options. Bel doesn't take long to decide. It's been a while since he's had a proper spicy chicken over rice. It was one of his favorite foods back in Araniel, but the chefs never quite made it hot enough to his liking.

"Anything look good?" Bel asks Nico, leaning in to ensure he's heard over the hubbub of the restaurant. "If you want, there's a kid's menu on the back." He smiles at his own jest, pointing to the small box containing tame entrees with sides of apple slices.

Nico hid his wince as Bel dug his elbow into his ribs. It wasn't enough to cause any serious pain but it certainly hadn't felt good. He was tempted to pinch his skin just for that, and give him a face. Yes, that would have been very grown-up of him to do. Que the eye rolling. He knew that Bel wanted them to get along. And he had tried. Sort of. But it was hard to try and be friends with bel's siblings when they made it so hard. Nico was a rather friendly person. He was rather accepting, more so than he possibly should have been. How else had he called for Bel so quickly? His enemy. He had fallen in love with him so fast and hard. And by some miracle, Bel had fallen with him. But his siblings were angry with Nico. And rightly so, he had stolen Bel right out of a carriage on the way to marry him off. But he had never mistreated Bel and the fates had worked in his favor. they found love with one another. And his siblings just couldn't seem to accept that. How could they ever get along if they couldn't come to terms?

Nico looked at Miran with a look of shock, though he quickly suppressed the expression. Was that a compliment? He hadn't expected that. Not from Miran. The corner of his lips turned up to what could have been called a smile. He inclined his head in response. His men did trust Nico. They trusted him with their lives. Guilt that he would live with for the rest of his life. Guilt of the ones that he had lost because they had followed him on a bad plan. On a mission gone wrong. He would carry that guilt every time he saw their loved ones and friends. Sometimes, being a leader wasn't all what people thought it was. It meant sending others to their deaths. His grip on Bel unknowingly tightened.

He blinked, focusing on the scene in front of him. He was here with Bel, and his siblings. This was his reality. He needed to stay here instead of slipping off into the past. It had been a while since he had gotten so caught up in his head. Other than his nightmares, that was, he was usually so good about staying in the present. But sometimes his mind got the better of him and sent him down a downward spiral. He looked down at Bel and gave him a smile. He didn't want Bel to think anything was amiss. He didn't want to talk about it. Not right now. Not with everything going on. Maybe later tonight, he would explain some of it. And hope that Bel would share with him in return about what had happened last night and this morning.

He watched as Miran greeted the hostess as if he was a commoner and not a prince. He thought a little higher of Miran then, not that he would ever admit that to anyone. He smiled at the girl as she led them back to their seats. A circular booth. Miran took the middle, how predictable. The girls were on his right and Bel on his left. Nico felt a rush of relief as he was on the end. he hadn't wanted to have to ask allowed to be on the end. He felt less claustrophobic sitting on the end. It also gave him a sense of ease to see all the visible entrances and exits. Which he scanned over thoroughly. As well as all the patrons sitting within the restaurant. Old habits died hard. He was always on edge in public. Too many close attempts had taught him better. He was never able to truly relax, even if it was completely safe. Even looking at the menu, he kept one eye on the crowd around. His lips threatened to pull up in a smile and pinched Bel's side as he jested about Nico ordering off the kid's menu. "No, thank you. I'm going to have some mild curry, thank you very much."