Abrose wasn't the only one who kept an open eye out on the halls. Lucian was one wrong sound away from pushing Abrose into a broom closet on the way to his room. The mfully, they didn't run into anyone. His anxiety was running high right now, even though he did an excellent job schooling those emotions and hiding it from his lover. He didn't want Abrose to think he was freaking out and second guessing. He wasn't. This was just uncharted territory for Lucian and he was trying to figure out how to handle it. And how in the hell they were going to hide it from everyone.
They made to the prince's room without issue. Abrose should have slipped right inside and gone to bed yet he leaned against the door. And Lucian downs himself gripping his hand tighter to keep him there. He wasn't ready to let him go yet. He was terrified that if he went to bed, he would wake up in the morning and this would all be a dream. A wonderful, glorious dream. And he would wake up heartbroken.
"Only a little bit." He hummed as Abrose leaned up to kiss him one last time. He placed his hands on his hip, holding the prince a little longer than necessary. He wasn't quite ready to let go. Lucian's eyes hesitated to open. And when they finally did, he smiled down at the love of his life. "Bright and early, my dear. Sleep well." He waited until the door clicked shut before turning on his heels and walking back down the hall. He didn't remember the walk to the barracks, only recognized as he slipped into his room and into bed. His mind had been transfixed on Abrose. He coukd still breathe in his scent, feel the weight of his lips on Lucian's. He prayed to whoever listened that this wasn't all a dream when he woke up.
What Abrose would give for five more minutes of sleep. The question should be what he wouldn't give at this point as he slowly opened is eyes and turned on his back to face his ceiling, still clutching the pilllow close. Dreams were usually forgotten shortly after he woke up as they were for most people yet this one still lingered, or at least the blush on his cheeks did. He huffed softly and burried his face into the pillow, curling back up into a tight ball as he tried to stay warm and flustered with the memory of his dream. Of him and Lucian, and gloriously nothing else between them. It was the spontanaity and the freedom the dream offered that was so appealing to Abrose. Reluctant to leave his warm bed, and wondering if it was worth staying just for Lucian to wake him up in a few moments, he flopped on his stomach and watched as the world awoke alongside him. Though still fairly dark, Abrose could here the morning song of birds and the soft chirping of crickets along with the faintest of glow from the still hiding sun.
After a while, he pulled himself out of bed, wrapping one of the many blankets around his shoulders and shuffled to the bathroom to freshen up then dress. After washing up, he half sleepily rummaged through his closet for something suitable to wear. He eventually pulle dout a simple, well structured tunic and pant set, one he ha used for riding lessons. While stiffer than normal clothes, he was still able to move around easily in them so he figured they'd be alright for training.
After changing, Abrose decided to follow the same morning regimine he had when he still took dancing lessons as a teenager. While he was sure training self defense would be more enjoyable than the horrid dance classes, Abrose did have to admit he did learn something from them and that was always to stretch and prepare the body thoroughly, no matter what the excersize may be. So Abrose made a bit of room by his window so he at least had a nice view as the sun rose and began simple stretches, trying his best not to push himself so far as to injure himself but just far enough to loosen his unworked muscles.
(Shit, sorry. I didn't mean to disappear for so long. Too much going on in personal life rn.)
Lucian slept better than he had in a very long time. None of the usual nightmares plagued his dreams. He slept entirely through the night and woke up feeling more well-rested than he had in a long time. Taking a deep breath, he could still feel the weight of Abrose lying on his lap and chest. He could still hear his heartbeat and feel the rise and fall of his chest. He was in far too deep. He had jumped head-first off the cliff and only hoped he didn't fall. His heart was soaring and he prayed to those who listened that it would stay that way. That somehow they could find a way to be happy. No longer would he be content loving his prince silently on the outskirts. He could do it no more. Not when he knew Abrose loved him just as much. Though Lucian would like to large that he loved Abrose more. Had for a very long time.
Lucian rolled out of bed, a happy smile on his face. He was up before most of the other soldiers and was able to avoid them easily. He freshened up in the communal bathrooms, then went back to his room to prepare for his morning. He pulled on his usual training clothes. Fitting, stretchy trousers and a breathable shirt that he would likely loose with the rising sun and heat. He laced up his shoes and tied his hair back in a simple, low ponytail. He used a strap of leather to keep it out of his face. As much as he enjoyed his long hair, it needed to be tied back for training. If not for the fact that it would get in his way, then that his sweat would make it stick to his face and neck.
He checked on the training courtyard, ensuring that it was empty and he had the necessary supplies before walking into the quiet of the palace. But just because it was quiet did not mean it was empty. Staff fluttered about as they prepped the palace for the day to come. He murmured his good mornings to the few he knew as he passed by in the halls. He nodded his head at the guard in the hall that housed the prince. He stopped in front of the door, schooling the smile on his face. They weren't alone. Not yet. They needed to tread carefully. Then he raised his fist and knocked on the door.
(no worries at all! I hope you're doing okay!)
Abrose changed around 4 times before he finally settled on a looser fitting shirt and pants, having deciding that the riding gear was a bit too restraining after the stretches. He was in the middle of tidying his now messy room when he snapped up at the knock at his door. After quickly smoothing down his clothes and brushing his hands through his hair, he cracked open his door, only to find Chire standing there instead of his guard. The crown prince tilted his head slightly and smiled knowingly "you're up early." He nodded, following Abrose inside his room before he closed the door softly. "So are you," Abrose replied, trying his best to hide his slight disappointment. It wasn't that he didn't want to see his brother, just that he wasn't who he had expected right now. "Your lights were on, I was just going to meet with a few members of the council." Chire explained settling on the edge of Abrose's bed. "I never knew my little brother to wake up before sunrise. Either you can't sleep or you're excited about something. Either way I'm assuming it has something to do with your guard?" Chire questioned, his knowing smile only growing as Abrose blush darkened. "Maybe. We may or may not have finally told each other that we like each more than friends." He drawled, nearly falling to the floor when Chire practically tacked him into a hug. "Finally!" Abrose managed to hug back without falling and laughed in surprise. "I have a training session with him soon, thought it was him when you knocked." He explained, sitting back down on the bed with his brother. “It all sort of happened last night but he knows now.” Abrose felt giddy with happiness, so glad that he could finally talk with his siblings about his feeling for Lucian not as just a friend now but something more. “I promise I'll explain everything to you and Lil soon.” He said as they stood as another knock came to the door. Chire nodded and squeezed Abrose in another hug before breaking away and scrambling to answering the door before Abrise could stop him. “Hello Lucian.” He greeted warmly, glancing between his brother and Lucian before moving around Lucian towards the hall. “Well, I'll leave you both to your training. Abrose I want a full report if this situation as soon as you’re free.” He waved to the pair before making his way to his meeting. Abrose shook his head fondly “he's going to be a great king one day.” He murmured glancing up at Lucian and gently bumping his shoulder “morning, love. I'll join you in a moment. Let me just clean up a bit.”
(Yeah, I'm good now. My cat had some medical issues and then I had changes to my schedule I was trying to figure out.)
Lucian hadn't know what ti exoect when the door finally opened but it certainly hadn't been the crown prince. He took a half a step back and dipped down into a deep bow. "You're Highness," he said. While his voice was warm and gentle, his face was missing the smile. He wasn't sure what Abrose had told him and decided it was best to tread carefully given the situation. It seemed the safest option. He knew the prince was close with both of his siblings, Lucian just couldn't be sure how close was close. He waited until Chire had disappeared down the hall before stepping into the room. He merely raised an eyebrow at the room and mess around him. He looked down at Abrose. "We're just training, love, no reason to look fancy."
Lucian shook his head fondly with a smile on his face before dipping his head to press a kiss to the top of his head. "Let me help you. The sooner this is clean the sooner we can get out there." Then he gave him a look. "Unless this is your way of delaying training." His smile turned into a smirk. "It's a valiant try but you'll have to try harder." He made a mental note to request some proper training clothes and shoes for the prince. If he was taking an interest in training, he needed to have the right clothes and shoes for it. He moved around the room fluidly, picking clothes off the floor and bed and folding then neatly and swiftly. He was a soldier. Cleanliness was quite literally beaten into him.
(glad you and your cat are doing good! Hopefully everything worked out)
"I know, I just wasn't sure what was right to wear for training. It's been ages since I did anything this rigorous. I'm not sure what's good and what's not good to wear." He replied, returning the kiss with one against Lucian's jaw before following him into the room and resumed his tidying, folding clothes and stashing them away in closets and his bedside drawers. He glanced over his shoulder and smiled "My dear Lucian if I wanted to delay training I would have stayed in bed to sleep like the dead with little chance of even you getting me out." He pouted slightly as he shut his closet door and began making his bed, finally free of clothing. "I would have thought you would have been proud that I'm up by sunrise." He sat on the edge of his now made bed, already feeling the strong urge to lie back down and go back to sleep. Abrose watched as Lucian moved around his room, recognizing his diligence and focused determination. Abrose reached out and gently took Lucians hand to stop him for a moment. "You need a well deserved break my love. Does that beautiful mind ever pause?" He asked, standing and brushing aside Lucian's hair to reach up and kiss his temple, "leave the rest for later, I've been meaning to clean up for a while anyways." He gently tugged at Lucian's arm and nodded towards the door with a smirk of his own. "Unless you're trying to delay as well?"
(Yeah, we're all doing a little bit better.)
Lucian had about ten different jokes off the top of his head about "rigorous" things and it was only by a miracle that he kept it all to himself. Being a soldier had some quirks to it, such as inappropriate jokes and such. And now he had that stuck in his mind and was tempted to throw out the training and show Abrose just how rigorous he could be. Alas, they did have things to do. And he did want to train him. Lucian would have a better sense of mind going out if he knew that Abrose could hold his own. His lips turned up at the kiss before following his lead. Lucian folded his clothes and handed them to Abrose to put them up where they belonged. "I'll make sure you have proper training clothes by tomorrow." The only question was if there was anything on hand small enough to fit his size. He might have to go into town and find something there that was more suited to Abrose's size.
He smirked. "And believe me, darling, that I would be able to get you out of bed." He'd play dirty if he had to, but he best believe that he would get Abrose out of bed and drag him to the training field. "I am proud of you. I don't think I've seen awake this early, since, well never." He had never seen Abrose up early during the entire time that he's been at the palace. Not as a child and certainly not as a palace guard. It seemed he already had a good influence on him already. He made a face as Abrose reached out to stop to him but went to him anyways. Lucian held his hand in one hand, gazing down at him with a soft look. "We both know it never does, my love. I don't need it to stop. I need it to keep you safe." His eyes closed longer than they needed to as he felt Abrose's lips on his temple. "I think we've delayed enough, my love."
( that's good, hope it only gets better from here for ya)
Abrose glanced down at himself, about to ask what was wrong with the clothes he has chosen but then realized Lucian was right. These were clothes of a prince no matter how simple. They were not meant to train or fight in. Just like him. Abrose immediately shook away the thought. How many times had he'd been told he couldn't be something, Lucian's lover, a prince, a worthy son, himself. And how many time had he'd proven everyone wrong including himself? This would be not different. He may not be able to do much now but these were the steps he'd have to take if he wanted things to change. He gently squeezed Lucian's hands, breaking out of his self reverie to laugh. He leaned in close, a breath away from kissing Lucian. "You are most certainly more than welcome to try next time. But I can bet you the royal treasury that I'd be able to get you in my bed even faster. And I'd have you stay, per order of your prince." He murmured each word against Lucian's lips but not entirely getting close enough for it to be a proper kiss, at least to Abrose. If playing dirty was what Lucian wanted then Abrose was more than happy to play along. While he had no doubt Lucian would be able to take him out of bed eventually, Abrose would make it near impossible til the very end. "Be glad I'm in a good mood this morning love, else this would be a very different situation." He taunted, finally pressing a kiss to Lucian's lips.
When he pulled away, he gently took Lucian's face in his hands, looking him over. "I'm safe, mostly because of you being there all my life." He admitted softly, glancing away to hide the guilt that flashed in his eyes. "But you're training me now, that way you can rest just a bit easier knowing I can take care of myself." He offered a small smile, knowing Luce would worry regardless. Abrose sighed softly and pulled Lucian into a hug, gently tugging at him so he'd bend down to Abrose's level so that he could give a long, much needed hug, not a quick side hug, or a loose friendship hug, not even like the hug of relief they had shared yesterday when they had confessed to each other but a hug of reassurance, as if Abrose could gather Lucian to him and keep him safe and snug against him for the rest of time. "Just a bit longer, stop just for a few moments." he begged as he gently ran his hands through Lucian's hair, taking care to detangle snags and brush it into place just right. At the same time he took notice of Lucian's breathing, his heartbeat, every point where they made contact, the way he smaller of rain and leather, everything he adored and more from his guard. After a few minutes, Abrose brokay away slightly and began walkingkto the door. "Let's begin training." He said, a new found determination in his eyes as he made his way to the door of his bedroom.
While Lucian could sense there was turmoil going on with his prince, he decidedly kept quiet. For now, that was. He would question him later after their training was over and they had both washed up for the day. And with the assumption they could find some alone time. He didn't like the thought of Abrose doubting himself. Because Lucian didn't. Lucian had full faith in his prince, even if he was overprotective of Abrose. But his concern for him was distracted as Abrose leaned in. Their lips were almost touching and it would have been so easy to lean forward and capture his lips. But what really sent him over the edge, was the words that came out of Abrose's mouth. In a flash, Lucian's hand was gripping the back of his neck, hands threaded in his hair and holding tight. His grip wasn't painful, just firm. His neck was bent so they were almost eye level. "And trust me, my love, that you would be losing the royal treasury. Do not underestimate my ability to get you out of bed. And in it." Abrose was playing a dangerous game and Lucian was more than willing to play along. If he thought this morning's training session was going to be easy, well, he had another thing coming for him. And it wouldn't just be hard because of the training material. Two could play this game. Even though Abrose had started the kiss, Lucian had been quick to take over. He kissed him hard, bodies flushed to one another. He was tempted to push him up against a wall, tease him further, but he worried he might take it to far and they would end up in bed all morning instead of training.
The kiss ended far too soon for his liking but he knew it was for the best. "And I'll always be here to keep you safe," he promised. He was never leaving his side again. Those small few years he had spent away had been too many. He was never leaving Abrose. Not now, not ever. So long as he lived, he would watch over him. The moment those small arms wrapped around him, Lucian melted. He wrapped his arms tight around him, picking Abrose off the floor so he could stand to his full height. As endearing as their height difference was, it did put a slight strain on his back. "Just a little bit longer," he agreed. He kissed the side of his head. He set Abrose down as he started to pull away and nodded. He had a gentle smile on his face, the last he would have for a little while, or at least until their training was over. "Let's go."
"consider the royal treasury officially on the table then. I'm sure Chire or Lily wouldn't mind." He laughed softly, linking their hands together as they made their way out to the hallway. Despite the maids and guards preparing for the morning, he still didn't let go, taking the rare opportunity to be close to Lucian whenever he could, hoping at least for now nothing would be said to his parents. He wanted to be the one to tell them, but right now didn't seem like the best time, considering the engagement was still technically a factor. "I think Amire knew about us." He reflected with a smile. "I hope with that understand we can still find a way to help our kingdoms." He sighed softly, mind already racing with any and all possibilty that would help. Abrose could make a visit to their enemy kingdom, they could discuss contracts or agreements, anything to end the war. "He loves someone else. There wouldn't be a point for us to marry. We could still have an alliance without a binding marriage." The more he thought about it, the more Abrose liked the idea of being in an alliance with the foreign prince. To have a friend outside if the kingdom in a similar situation to himself.
He glanced up, distracted by his plans for a moment by the time they reached the halls leading to the training grounds as well as the soldier barracks. He sucked in a breath, and looked up at Lucian. "Is it too late to remind you I'm not as skilled as I'd hope to be in the art of battle?" He asked, breaking away to walk the perimeter of the training grounds, keeping an eye on Lucian in case he decided to start training right then and there with combat.
Lucian was quite sure that Chire and Lily would mind if Abrose lost a bet on whether or not he could get Lucian into bed with him. It worried him as their hands remained clasped as they traveled down the halls. Any one of the staff members they passed could report back to his parents and there went Lucian's job. He highly doubted he would be allowed to remain in this position if they were known to have relations. They might assume that he would be distracted by his feelings and relationship with Abrose rather than protect him. If only they knew it would only mean he would be vigilant. He would never let anything happen to Abrose. Never. And especially now that their feelings had been confessed, he was never going to let anyone take his prince away from him.
Lucian did not like where this conversation went. He did not like talking about the man that Abrose was probably, maybe engaged to. It didn't matter that Amire had a lover elsewhere. They were still technically engaged in the eyes of the king and queen. He tried not to show his discomfort but he could feel his frown slipping through. "I'm sure you will be able to figure it out." Lucian had never been very good at politics. He had never understood the little game the courtiers played. He had almost failed learning about government. Being a soldier was easier for him. He followed orders. No politics included. But he knew Abrose would be able to figure it out. And he had no doubt that Chire and Lily would assist him in it. Lucian would only be good for moral support and what little knowledge he had about history. He looked down at Abrose as they reached the end of the hall, the doors leading out to the training yards and the barracks. His gaze softened. "We won't touch combat today. We likely won't for the week. Today is to assess where you are physically and come up with a plan. We need to strengthen your muscles before we start on anything else." Then, in the quickest moment, he leaned down and kissed his head. "Let's start."
Abrose blinked in surprise at the sudden kiss then broke out into a soft smile, "good, at least for now. As for my physical ability, we'll have to see won't we?" He took a deep breath, rolling up his sleeves and finding the wracks of swords he ran a hand over the pommels of the swords, looking for one that he could handle for the time being. "I haven't picked up a sword in years." He murmured, almost to himself as he unshesthed a lighter sword and testing it's balance in one hand. It wouldn't do much in an actual war, in fact Abrose was near positive it was one of the practice swords meant for younger soldiers but it suited him. He took up a stance, sword in front of him read to parry an attack. Trying to mimick the soldiers he had seen train on occasion, he put one foot back and the other out front, uncomfortable and slightly wobbly but it it was a start despite a bad one. He straightened then tried again, attempting to stabilize himself more nie that he had a weapon to balance. "Where do the newest soldiers start?" He asked, rolling his shoulda as they already started to stiffen with effort.
Lucian hung back as he watched Abrose approach the sword wrack. He was curious to see what the prince would choose to use. He had set out only to practice swords. Nothing sharp and nothing that could cause serious damage. Well, even a blunt blade could cause hard if swung hard enough. But he doubted he would have any of those problems with Abrose. And Lucian had more than enough control. He wasn't at risk of swinging too hard and hurting Abrose. Nothing more than perhaps a couple bruises here and there. He needed to test his reaction time and what his response was to certain steps. He needed to see just where he needed to start. Today was going to hurt. Tomorrow was going to hurt more.
He couldn't help but smile as he watched Abrose poorly attempt a standard stance and parry. His form and balance were off, likely due to the sword in his hand and how long it had been since his last instruction. "All of our soldiers start with a mile warmup and then some stretches before we begin. The last thing that anyone needs is you injuring yourself because you didn't properly stretch and warm up. Then I'll walk you through some exercises with a sword and we'll go from there."
Abrose let out an embarrassed laugh as he tried once more to attempt a decent stance with the sword with little to no avail. It still felt uncomfortable to hold the sword and this was only a practice sword! he couldn't imagine what a real sword would feel like. He ultamately gave up on trying to perfect a stance he was almost entirely sure was wrong in the first place and walked over to where Lucian stood watching him. "Running I can do much better than this." He relented the thought of running any amount of distance this early in the morning already made his body feel tired. Or maybe that was the few hours of sleep he had managed to get last night. But in the end he knew Lucian was right. Stretching out his unused muscles and getting warmed up was most likely a better idea than starting right off the bat with trainign with a sword. "I'll follow your lead then for as long as possible." He assured, knowing hed most likely fall behind a few minutes into the run but he was willing to try.
He carefully put the practice sword back on the wrack and stretched again to prepare himself for the run. "At least this isn't something I'm not used to." He mused, "Our dance tutor used to have us do extensive stretches before any class. Gods I hated those classses but I can somewhat see why they were necessary." He took a moment to take into account his breathing as well, falling silent and taking deep breaths in and out to lower his heartbeat a little and relax his tense form. "Ready when you are, love."
Lucian only smiled fondly as he watched Abrose struggle with the sword. Perhaps his instructor mode would come later on, because all he could think about was how much he loved this man, and how adorable he looked trying and failing to swing the sword around. That was something that could be easily fixed later on. Hopefully easy. Yes, phsycial strength was apart of mastering a sword and defense but it wasn't everything. It wasn't even half of it. Form was more important than anything else. Thankfully, Abrose's dancing lessons would likely come in hand. Sword fighting was similar to dancing, at least in the footwork. It was all about grace and balance. Running was something that Lucian had learned to love. He hadn't in the beginning. He had loathed it. But over time, as he had learned how to run, he had come to enjoy it. "I'll keep pace with you, my love. Not to worry. I wouldn't leave you behind." Which meant he would be running a lot slower than usual. He had a long stride on top of his quick pace. His morning run was always a two or three miles, depending what he was doing that morning.
"I'm sure you will find many similarities from your dance lessons to here. They aren't all too different. Fighting is all about your stance, foot work, and balance. Something you likely went over in your lessons." He led him over to the outer ring of the training courtyard. "Four laps is give or take a mile. We'll start on my mark." Then, without noticed, he dipped and pressed quick, firm kiss to his prince's lips. "Go," he said as he pulled away.
Abrose sighed softly, trying to shoo away the guilt he felt for making Lucian accomadate him. But this was what the training was for. Abrose knew he would likely never match the skill of a trained guard, nor did he necessarily want to but he hadn't expected to suddenly feel so inexperienced. He nodded slightly, stretching out just a bit more and taking a look around then field to assess the distance. "Let's hope a 4 year respite from dancing hasn't cost me the little flexibly I had." He joked, shaking out his limbs. He had expected Lucian to begin the run but instead Abrose found himself face to face with his guard, a moment later being kissed. Maybe it was the buzzing adrenaline coursing through him or the lack of sleepwishing he had made more of an effort to keep Lucian and himself tucked away in his room longer, promising whatever Lucian wanted about training and maintaining a schedule so long as they could stay together just a bit longer, but alas Abrose was not that quick of a thinker especially in the early hours of the day. "You are a menace, my beloved Lucian. I promise you after this training session I will finish that kiss." Abrose murmured, shaking his head as he began the run, first starting off with a slow walk to shake off the weakness in his legs from the sudden kiss then slowly transitioning into a a light run, something he thought he could keep up with for a longer period of time rather than a full on sprint.
Lucian only gave Abrose a kind look. It did not matter to him where Abrose was in relation to training. He only needed to know so he knew where to start, not to judge. he would never judge. His lovely prince was a soft and kind soul, if not a little rambunctious. This life was not for him. Lucian still wished there had been a way to convince Abrose that he didn't need to train. But once he put his mind to something, there was no changing it. And Lucian would rather that he train him than anyone else. Perhaps for more selfish reasons just so they could have some more time together. But also because he knew the prince the best. He knew what it looked like when he reached his limit and he would be able to guide the training safer than if it had been someone else. His lips turned up into a smirk as he watched Abrose handle the after-effects of his kiss. "I'll hold you to that, love." He was looking forward to finishing that kiss, and where it may lead to. He cleared his throat, looking forward and adjusting his pants oh so subtly. Lucian let Abrose set the pace of their run. It was just a warm-up and didn't need to be done quickly. It needed to be comfortable. It didn't matter that Lucian could comfortably pace six minute mile run and would usually run several miles to warm up in the morning before practice. This wasn't for Lucian. It was for Abrose.
After a while of trying to set a good pace to himself, akwardly slowing and trying to find a good speed to go, not too slow nor too fast. Eventually he settled on a light jog, keeping his arms raised to his chest since he didn't know what else to do with them. He glanced back at Lucian a few times, making sure he was on the right path even if they were just going around the training field. "You do this every morning?" He called, slowing slightly to fall beside Lucian but keeping an even place. He looked out onto the dessolate field, still calm and hazy with the morning fog, the sun just peeking over the horizon. If he were more of a morning person, he could get used to waking up early solely to enjoy the view and the ease of the morning. Maybe one day he would, if he ever became a morning person. He took a blissfull moment to enjoy the morning sunrise, and to catch his breath a bit before resuming the run, pushing through the tiredness in his limbs, telling himself only two more laps and he'd be able to rest a bit. "Whats…after..this?" He asked through hard breaths, figuring it'd be a bit easier to focus on a conversation rather how tired he was getting. Only now did he remeber this was only a warm-up, not the actual training session.
Lucian matched his stride to Abrose the entire time. Anytime he sped up or slowed down, he would adjust his own pace. He was positioned on the inside of the field, Abrose on the outside of it so he could guide him along the field. He wasn't going to let him cheat his way out of his laps, even if it was accidental. Lucian would run with him every single morning. He would do every exercise with him to show him it is possible and to lead by example. He wouldn't leave Abrose to suffer by himself. Lucian would always be there, guiding, helping. Abrose would never be alone. He couldn't help but smirk, looking over to glance at him. "Every morning," he replied, sounding as if he was taking a walk in the early morning, instead of a job. "Usually, I run about three miles every morning to warm up, sometimes more." It had taken a lot of work to get there but he had put it in and now he could run with ease. It was all about knowing your body and its capabilities. Finding your limits and knowing how to push them, but not cross them.
He only smiled at Abrose. He didn't laugh or chuckle or do anything that could be considered condescending or mean. Abrose was not in physical shape. And certainly not on the level that Lucian was. That was okay. He hadn't been in shape when he first joined the army. It had taken almost a year before he had truly grown and began to be able to work on the level as seasoned soldiers. "We'll take a water break and move on to stretches." Stretching was by far one of the most important things. If your muscles were not properly stretched and prepared, it was so easy to tear something and take you out for months.
Abrose gave Lucian a genuinely mortified look over his shoulder "every single morning?" He whined, amazed and now slightly regretting asking for this. He did the calculations in his head. Just the thought of doing more than a mile made his limbs ache. "I can barely manage one." He huffed, pushing his want to slow to a walk and kept up his mediocre jog. "You've been doing for years, since we were kids. I imagine it's gotten easier after so much time spent training." He thought back to when they were teenagers, when most soldiers have began their official training and how Chire would come back to their room exhausted and bruise but proud of himself nonetheless.
As poorly as he was doing, Abrose was glad Lucian was baside him instead of someone else. He wasn't even sure if anyone else would understand better than Luce. Sure he was relatively close with a few guards through Chire and Lucian and his own friendly nature but none were as close as Lucian. He didn't want them to be that close. He gently bumbed his shoulder with Lucian's "thanks for agreeing to train me. I know I've grown up without the hardships and life you've had to endure but I want to learn about them regardless. Not only you but my people as well. This doesn't seem like a lot but it means a lot to knowing you're willing to teach me about the reality of something most of us choose to ignore. Thank you."
Abrose smiled at the mention of water and a stretching break, using that as a bit of motivation to finish sooner.
Lucian burst out in a laugh at the mortified look Abrose gave him. He threw his head back and nearly tripped over his own feet. "Every morning, love. It will get easier with time." They ran for distance, not for time. Soon, one mile would be a breeze and they could length it to two. And when two became easy then it would be three. Running was merely used as a warmup unless that was the main exercise of the day, cardio. "This is your first day. Do not let yourself get down when you're not able to do as much as you think you should. You're doing wonderful already." To properly train someone, you needed to know what they responded best to. Lucian responded well to negative comments. Abrose needed praise. He was more than willing to prove it where praise was able to be given. He wouldn't sugar coat things, but he would recognize what needed to be recognized.
"Today is an easy day, don't over do it. You'll need your energy for tomorrow, that's when we really start." Today was just assessment and a slight teaching. Tomorrow was when the real work began. He looked down at Abrose, smiling own at him. "You do not need to thank me, Abrose. I would do anything for you." And that was true. As the finished their mile, he led Abrose to slow down until they were at a walk. The heart needed to calm down before they just completely stopped. He handed the water to Abrose first before taking his own and sipping on it. "Don't drink too much. I don't want you to make yourself sick."
"I already have a terrible sleep schedule as it is." he sighed dramatically, only causing him to struggle more for breath. He recovered for a moment, slowing down significantly so he could find him breath before resuming his normal pace. "and yet there is still so much to be done with the kingdom itself." He couldn't help but worry about his kingdom.
As much as Abrose wished he wasn't a prince, and selfishly had no responsibilty of one, that life was not his to live jsut yet. nor would it be soon. Running a few miles would most likely be the easiest thing he'd do here on out. He blushed slightly, glad that the flush from his excursion could hide the pink in his cheeks from the praise. In all honesty he didn't think it was deserved, not just now but most times when he was told he was doing a good job. He complained and whined msot of the time he was actually told to act as a prince. He never wanted this life to begin with and usually only did things that benefited him. He adored his people, yes, and adored his kingdom, but he saw the flaws in the way his family ruled. he didn't want part in that. But he also didn't know how to bring about change.
As the youngest, it was easy playing the role of the naive prince, known as rebellious and careless. Having to actually make decisions and act upon them was something he rarely ever had to do. Getting praise, especially from Lucian for doing such a simple task as running an easy mile, while felt good, it also made Abrose realize just how isolated he was from his kingdom, mostly by his choice. A mile was nothing really, not to people who worked day in and day out, who struggled to live while he was partying and treating the town as his own personal vacation. To people like Lucian risking their lives for their kingdom, their purpose to serve and protect and, if need be lay down their lives for people who barely knew their names. It wasn't fair and praise certainly wasn't deserved for that. He offered a hesitant smile "Thank you." He repeated softly, knowing a simple thank you would never ever justify Abrose never end admiration for the man he loved, for the people in his kingdom, for the sacrifices made everyday simply so he and his family could live comfortable in their shiny castle.
He shoved away the ache in his chest, willing himself not to cry out of seemingly nowhere and focused on finishing the mile. As much as Abrose wanted to dive head first into helping his kingdom and Amire, Lucian, as alway Abrose was realizing, was right. One day at a time. Today was a mile, tomorrow was making treaties, soon peace would be acheivable. One day soon, Abrose hoped. "And I for you, my love. I may not look like I can do much but I'll sure as Hell try." He let himself loosen his jog into something more relaxed as hey reached the end of the final lap, walking off a few feet after until he came a progressive stop. Sweat soaked into his tunic and he was breathing hard but he had to admit the run felt good, especially the latter half where he let his mind wander and his emotions determine his true purpose for training. He whiped off the sweat from his face and gladly accepted the drink of water from Lucian, heading his warning and taking small drinks of water, allowing for his body to adjust and his heart to slow. He still felt slightly sick, most likely from not eating beforehand but otherwise he was doing alright, at least from what he had originally expected things to turn out.
(Whoops, sorry about that. I was studying for my exam this weekend and dealing with drama at work)
Lucian looked over at Abrose, his brow creasing in answer. There was much still needed to be done for the kingdom, he only wished Abrose did not feel so burdened to do it. Perhaps he was a prince, but he was the third-born child. It was not his sole responsibility to fix everything that was wrong in the kingdom. That should be what his parents were doing, even if they went about it the wrong way. That should be what Chire was doing, though Lucian had no doubt the heir was working tirelessly to save this kingdom from the perils of war. He only prayed that their parents were able to accomplish this before the sole responsibility was handed over to Chire and whoever he would take as his bride. He sometimes wondered what it would be like if Abrose had a different life, one where he wasn't a prince. Where he would be free of responsibilities such as this. But then, if Abrose was never a prince, Lucian might have never met him. Not with the palace consuming his time. Perhaps this was the only version of their lives where they could be together, even if in secret. He would cherish every moment they had and pray that it never ends.
Lucian caught the flush to Abrose's skin, more so than it had already been. He guessed quickly that it was an effect of his praise but he did not speak on this. The corner of his lips raised in the slightest as he felt pride of being able to cause such a reaction, even if it was just a blush. He was proud of Abrose. For his willingness to learn, to train. For trying. Not everyone would, especially princes and princesses who are content in their palaces. Even if Lucian would prefer if he wasn't learning based solely on the thought of fighting for this country. Lucian would shelter him from all acts of war if given the chance. But knowing how headstrong his prince was, he knew it would be no use. It would be better to train Abrose to the full extent and fight by his side when the time comes. Lucian would always protect him and he would die before he let any harm come to Abrose, not just because it was his job but because of his own selfishness. But he would not keep Abrose from doing such a heroic thing. And if the time came and he made it to the front lines and decided he couldn't do it, Lucian would never judge him for it. Most people couldn't do it. War was hard and ugly and gruesome. No one was ever ready for it. And if Abrose backed out, Lucian would get him all the way home, wherever home was.
He did smile brightly then as Abrose made his declaration. They were there for each other, always, whenever the other needed it. It was the kind of love he saw in his parents before his father died. it was the kind of love he wanted for himself, and that he had found. He wondered what his mother would say when he finally told her. He took the water back from Abrose as he finished the glass and set it aside. He led Abrose over to several mats that had been laid out. "We'll start on our stretches next and make sure our bodies are loose and warmed up."
(no worries and same honestly 😅 hope you're doing good tho)
Abrose would give anything to see Lucian smile like that everyday. He was beyond glad he had the opportunity to see that beautiful smile most days but he was determined to make that a constant in his life moving forwards. It hadn't escaped him what his decions could possibly mean for the kingdom. Amire may be alright with not marrying but there were others in both their kingdoms that would gladly go to war over the smallest of things. Rebels and outliers looking for any opportunity to attack each other, with no regards to the innocent and citizens caught up in the turmoil. He imagined those same people would more than willingly go for the royal family and anyone associated as well. Maybe he couldn't fight in war. Maybe abrose was too comfortable in his castle to step on a battle field like his brother had once done. But he would be damned if he sat by and let his kingdom die. He would be in the midst fighting alongside them with everything he had and more.
Abrose followed Lucian back towards the center of the field and settled on the mats, promptly lying back and closing his eyes, unbothered by the rough ground digging into his back. He only thought it fair for taking a bit of a break. He slowly opened his eyes, blinking against the light of the morning and shivering slightly at the crisp air. It had felt good when running, fueling and driving him forwards. But now sitting on a mat and trying to calm down, Abrose was more aware of the coolness of the wind rustling the trees. "I could get used to this." He murmured softly, pushing himself back up and crossing his legs, letting his body relax and his shoulder drop from their tense positions when he had ran.
(I am good now. Sorry for disappearing again XD)
Lucian quirked an amused eyebrow as Abrose immediately went over to the mats and laid down. It had just been a mile run. A slow jog was more appropriate. But he wasn't used to this sort of thing. He hadn't been much better when he had first started. In fact, he had pushed himself too hard to keep up with the others around him. It had ended up with him puking more than once and even passing out one time. That had not been fun in the slightest. He had a knot on the back of his head from when he fell and he had been bullied by the other boys for passing out. The only person who had been kind to him was his commander. He visited Lucian when he woke up in the infirmary, telling him they were going to work on his running early in the morning, before anyone else got up. That way he could push him without Lucian going too far. Now of course, it was said in a harsher manner than that, but it was the first time anyone had shown him kindness there. He admired his commander to this day, even after he had died on the field.
Quite as a mouse, Lucian got down on the mat and crawled over to Abrose, placing a kiss on both of his eyelids, then his cheeks, and then finally his lips. Abrose looked all too inviting lying there and he couldn't resist giving him a kiss. Or a few kisses. Perhaps this had been a mistake. Abrose was too tempting for Lucian. Especially now that he was drenched in sweat. He looked a little too good. It would be a fight on his part to keep his hands to himself. Afterward, when they were done, Lucian was free to touch him all he wanted to, given they were somewhere alone and safe. He just needed to make it until then. He sat back on his heels as Abrose finally sat up. "You will get used to it, one day at a time," he said, "Now stretches. Just do as I do." Lucian guided Abrose through the stretches, trying not to focus too hard on Abrose or else Lucian might run into an issue. For himself. After hiding his emotions and desire for so long, it was suddenly very hard to do so.
