The sun hung low in the sky, casting golden hues across the general training ground. Riven stayed behind after combat class to see Vaelorian, though he'd lied to his friends that the older boy needed him for some errands.
Right now, they were just spectators, watching Sir Eryndor glide through his swordplay with effortless grace. Riven stood beside Vaelorian, absorbing every fluid movement—the precise strikes, the controlled breath, the way the sunlight shimmered off his armor, making him look almost like a myth come to life. As the knight's sword flashed through the air, a spark ignited in Riven's chest. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for what he was about to say.
"Your Highness?" Riven called out, practically bouncing on his toes like a coiled spring. The older boy turned, one eyebrow quirked up in curiosity, his distinct presence illuminating the dusty training ground.
"What is it, love?" Vaelorian responded, glancing back at him with a blend of affection and patience. The familiar spark in his eyes made Riven's heart skip a beat.
"Can we talk? I need to ask you something." A flush of excitement coursed through him; he knew this was a long shot, but something told him it was worth the attempt.
"Of course. What's on your mind?" Vaelorian stepped closer, exuding warmth like the sunshine pouring down on them.
Riven hesitated for a moment, suddenly conscious of how insignificant his request might sound. "It's about Barron, my friend." he began, nervously shifting his weight from one foot to the other. "I really think he should join our training sessions with Sir Eryndor."
"What?" Vaelorian's brow furrowed slightly, skepticism painting his features. "Riven, Barron is…well, he's strong but he's not exactly a gifted fighter. You know that."
"I know, I know, but hear me out!" Riven urged, stepping forward fully into the Prince's view. "He's dedicated, and he's got potential—more than you might think Barron's got a good heart. He looks up to you, you know. You've inspired him to want more. If you let him train—"
"Riven, my love..." Vaelorian interrupted gently, a hint of gravity in his voice, "training isn't just about strength. It's dangerous; it requires discipline and—"
"Exactly! And he could learn all of that from you and Sir Eryndor. Just like you did with me!" Riven's excitement bubbled over, his hands animatedly cutting through the air as he made his case. "He deserves a chance, just like I had, please!"
Vaelorian's expression softened, recognizing the passion in Riven's plea. "I understand that you want this for him, but there are rules. Not everyone is allowed access to me."
"Please? For me?" Riven's tone turned earnest, and he took a small step forward, looking up with those wide, pleading eyes that could stir even the hardest of hearts. "It would mean so much to both of us."
For a moment, Vaelorian scanned Riven's expression—his determination, sincerity, and fiery spirit shining through like rays of sunlight breaking through the clouds. It was this vulnerability, the way Riven wore his heart on his sleeve, that ignited a soft spot within Vaelorian, and he found himself laughing softly.
"You are impossible, you know that?" he said, chuckling lightly, though his heart warmed at the thought of how passionate Riven raised his request. "You know I can't say no to you, but what do you think Eryndor would say?" Vaelorian asked gesturing to the knight that's still oblivious to their discussion.
"He'll understand! I mean, if you explained your reasons to him, I'm sure he'd be on board," Riven assured, an infectious excitement lacing every word. "His training methods are tough! Barron needs this, Your Highness. He can be something more than just a jester in our group, I know it!"
Vaelorian took a deep breath, running his fingers through his hair in contemplation. Riven watched his expression shift as he weighed the pros and cons, seeing the prince wrestle with the idea.
"You really think he stands a chance?" Vaelorian asked finally.
"Absolutely! He just needs direction; he's so eager to learn!" Riven's voice was filled with fervor, his heart racing at the prospect.
"Fine, but I'm only doing this because you're so insistent." Vaelorian's lips curved into a defeated smile, but he could never truly say no to Riven. "I'll talk to Eryndor later and see what he thinks."
"Yes! Thank you, thank you!" Riven beamed, his eyes alight with gratitude, and he threw his arms around Vaelorian in a spontaneous hug that left the prince momentarily taken aback. A rush of warmth surged through him, and he could barely suppress the urge to hold Riven tighter. The younger boy was making the first move this time.
"Easy there!" Vaelorian chuckled, wrapping his arms around Riven's waist, his expression softening. He could feel Riven's heartbeat quicken beneath their embrace, and it tightened the invisible bond that tethered them together. "Let's not make it a habit of you ambushing me, okay love?"
Riven pulled back slightly, his eyes sparkling. "Just know that you're my hero now, Your Highness." He was openly flirting with the older boy without shame right now.
"Oh really?" Vaelorian smirked, affection gleaming in his gaze. "I'm your hero for agreeing to help Barron train?"
"Absolutely!" Riven nodded vehemently, unable to contain his excitement. "You're the best mentor anyone could ask for, and I can't wait to see Barron's face when he hears the news. Thank you, seriously."
Vaelorian shrugged nonchalantly trying to hide the obvious blush creeping up his neck and face. "I'm just trying to keep you happy. That's one of my many duties as your lover, you know." he teased, and Riven blushed at the word 'lover'.
"Let's go find him then!" Riven urged the prince forward. "He's probably goofing around somewhere, knowing him. He'll be over the moon when I tell him the good news."
As they made their way to the courtyard, Riven couldn't help but steal glances at Vaelorian, and the realization struck him: what they have is really special. Not just in training, but in their lives. He still has the mission about making the Duke proud and impressing a secret crush, sure. But this thing between them, It was a journey on its own, and if he had his way, he'd make sure nothing goes wrong with any of it.
"Just remember to approach him without your usual intimidating gaze; Barron may act tough, but he's got a soft spot too," Riven to Vaelorian playfully, managing a bright grin.
"Yes, I'll keep that in mind, for you."
Vaelorian smiled back, and Riven nodded in appreciation as they ventured towards the courtyard.