Love and War pt 3

--- Last time ---

Boy: I’m doomed, aren't I? You could do anything and get away with it, just coz you smile, hahaha.

*Walking into the tent, the Boy’s eyes grow wide*

Boy: So, this is the real thing, huh?

Child: Yes. This is the real thing. Welcome to the war, my dear.

--- Main Camp, Unknown Location ---

*After a well informed meeting with various Gods, the pair make their way back towards the Child's tent. The Boy quickly stoked the fire to bring in some semblance of light and warmth to the surrounding area. Slowly, bit by bit, the magnificence of the tent is revealed. Fine silks drape the center of the room, feeding out into the bedside area, maps and documents neatly piled work space near by, and the scent of fragrant oils wasted though the air, a few open bottles by a statue. One which had a striking resemblance to the child.*

*With elegant, practiced hands, the Child makes light work of removing his armor, and fastening it to the corresponding areas of the statue and helped them to slip into something more comfortable, before briefly flicking through documents resting on his desk, setting them down for a later time.*

Child: Welcome to my humble abode. Relax anywhere. I’m sure after everything recently, the rest will do us both some good.

Boy: ….. Are we…. Wait, are we in a war zone or in the early stages of aunt A’s temple? I’m confused!!!!

*The Child laughs softly, offering a slightly cheeky look to the Boy*

Child: Did you forget just who we are? It is something that I guess you could say is useful. This is merely a construct. If we needed to move and fast, it’s a simple process to remove it, even for those who aren’t magic orientated. But again, it’s for morale purposes than anything else. If any of this was put to the test against the real thing, they certainly wouldn’t last long. They would wear out or degrade far too quickly to outlast things truly made.

*The Boy, still in awe, looks around the tent*

Boy: could have fooled me, i must say Master, durable or not this place is simply divine, i wonder if i’ll have the right to earn a tent like this soon.

*The boy slowly sets down his satchel and removes his armored garments. Placing them at a eye distance before walking over to the Child, clinging on to there robles for the moment.*

Child: Well, considering that, as you are here only temporarily, there would be no need to make another accommodation. While you are here, you are under my command as my vassal. So, I believe that you have a right to the tent.

*Smiling, the Child brushes a strand of hair from the Boy’s face*

Child: You know, we are in private now. You don’t need to call me ‘Master’ here. Well, you could, but it might make for an interesting connection to the meaning of the word later.

Boy: Y-you know…. Your appearance and your personality doesn't match up at times…. Perverted lover of mine. I bet if I could give birth, we would have had at least a dozen by now… well, at least I’m staying in here, I guess.

*The boy takes the child’s hand and tugs them towards the bed, falling backward with the Child hanging over them.*

Child: Well, if you really wanted them…..

*They leave the sentence hanging, before laughing softly and nudging their forehead to the Boy’s*

Child: But I think I’d get jealous. After all, I would prefer your attention to stay on me, I think. At least for a while. *Their expression softens* ….I really missed you, you know. I can barely believe that you’re actually here.

*The Boy chuckles, pulling the Child closer for a brief kiss*

Boy: Awww, you don't want little pups running around? If they look anything like you, they would be cute, don't you think? But… truthfully, I missed you too. |Even though we use Kuro, it’s not the same. He doesn't have your scent… I was so scared I would forget it, that I… I begged and fussed until they let me come. Coming up with a full proof plan was the only way I was allowed to see you in person again. And, to be here now… with you in my arms again… it's like a dream.

Child: I hope it’s not a dream. If it is, I might not want to wake up. *Smiling, they nuzzle the Boy’s cheek with their own* But I hope that this is reality. I wish to wake with you at my side, after all.

Boy: Mas- My love. I-I‘m so happy. So, so happy. No words can truly describe these feelings in my heart. What do I do? Tell me.

Child: Well, they do say actions can speak louder than words. Perhaps if you can’t find the words to say, you might wish to….give me a demonstration, instead?

Boy: D-demonstration? How?

*The Boy blushes now, turns away from the Child’s gaze*

Boy: I’m being serious here.

*The Child leans back a little, so they can look at the Boy’s face better, their expression calm, no trace of joking on their features*

Child: So a I.

Boy: Then… what exactly do I need to do? Are you not the one giving orders? B-be more precise. Tell me exactly what I must do.

*with the excitement and embarrassment rising within him, the boy buries his face in his palms, hoping that the Child did not hear the velocity in which his heart was pounding*

Child: Ah, are you perhaps hoping to see what it is like to be under my command, instead?

*They let out a soft breath of a laugh, before shaking their head and leaning close again.*

Child: Perhaps, instead, you might prefer a demonstration? Would you like for me to show you my feelings first?

Boy: W-well you are my ‘master,’ is it not your responsibility to coach those under you to make sure they know exactly what to do when the situation arises. So teach me master.

Child: *Raising a brow* Are you absolutely sure you want to use the ‘Master’ thing right now? People will certainly talk tomorrow if you can’t say the word without turning red. As adorable as that would be, it will certainly prevent us from rooming together if the others think we’re taking part in questionable play.

*His ears reddened by the words unintentionally escaping his lips, before he catches himself.*

Boy: We do that anyway… dummy.  What's the difference? But, if you don’t wish to be my tutor, then should I find someone else? Eep! I, ah, that didn’t mean to come out. I um...

Child: *Smirking now* Oh? When did I say that? I’d be quite happy to teach you, you darling pupil *They lean close again, fingers trailing over the boy’s jawline.* I was just making sure that you were comfortable with that, too. Alright then. Be a good student now, alright? And *Leaning in further, lips hovering just over his *Do your best…..not to blush, alright?

Boy: M-master, don't go easy on me. I can be a difficult student when i what to be.

*The boy chuckles before meeting the Child's lips the rest of the way.*

--- A few hours later ---

*Laying on the bed, absently running fingers through the boy’s hair, the Child looks up at the ceiling of the tent sleepily, humming contently*

Voice: You seem happy? I assume you haven't forget what I told you about that flower?

*Huffing softly, the Child closes their eyes*

Child: I haven’t forgotten. I am doing nothing that he himself isn’t asking for. And I’m baring in mind what you’ve said. Though, perhaps, if even this is too much, you should probably have spoken to him about it as well. But I am being careful.

*They open one eye, mischief glinting in it*

Child: Although, it’s kind of creepy to think you watch. Pervert.

*The Voice chuckles softly*

Voice: You know as well as I, if I say anything now, it will be fuel for him to defy me. And, I’ll have you know I give you space in times like these. I prefer not to be labeled as a pervert, thank you very much. Silly child.

Child: *Chuckles* I actually meant before all this. But ah well. So, are you just checking up on me that I haven’t taken every first? Or did you have anything else in mind with your visit today, milady?

Voice: Oh my! Dare I ask?  You’re as cheeky as ever, little one. But I just wanted to see that my boy had settled in nicely… What do you think of him in combat? Do you think he’ll be ok out there or should I add a little more to his training? ‘We’ watched his little fight previously.

Child: One fight won't say much about everything he can do. There is, of course, always room for improvement, but he certainly seems on the right track. If he keeps it up, he’ll be much stronger than me by the time he joins the battle properly. For that, I’m glad. The stronger he is, the more likely he will survive. Though warriors see me as a patron, I am a god that revels in life. That he’ll live to see the end of this warms me more than anything.

Voice: ...Hmm… Then I’ll leave him in your care for now. Do me a favor and teach him some restraint. Those ‘little scratches’ could have been a lot worse. You know just how reckless he can be. But anyway, I need to get going, and I’ll check on you soon, little one. Be safe.

Child: Of course. You know I wouldn’t allow anything to happen to him if I can help it. If teaching him how to better block or dodge will help, then I will. And, don’t worry, I’ll be sure to protect myself as well. Take care, Mother.

Voice: Untill next we speek.

*After a short while, the boy begins to stir, slowly opening his eyes*

Boy: Hm? My love? Who were you talking to?

Child: Just the voices in my head, dear. Joking aside, I was just getting an update from one of the gods in a different team. Nothing too serious, thankfully.

Boy: Eh! Wait, someone saw us?! Oh no! The last thing we need is a scandal! I should leave!!!

*The boy begins to panic, inching closer to the edge of the bed. The child snorts and pulls him back again*

Child: It was a telepathic message, love, calm down. If someone had seen us like this, don’t you think I might have done something to protect your honour? Besides, I’m good with illusions. No one would have seen us like this. Calm yourself.

Boy: Geeez! Don’t worry about my honour, worry about yours!!! Though, I suppose you're right.

*The boy sighs while settling into the bed again, letting out a yawn*

Boy:  I suppose we should get up and eat something… but I don't know why I'm still a little sleepy. Probably because I'm not used to the lower realm quite yet? Should we get up or stay like this a little longer?

Child: *Calculating the time quickly* We have time to do either. It’s still early yet. The camp never fully sleeps, so even at this time in the night, people would probably be awake to get you food, if you’d like some. If you can wait a while, though, we should sleep a little more. Tomorrow’ll be a long day.

Boy: Sure, sounds like a plan to me. Means I can get more of your scent then. I’m happy.

*The boy burrows into his lover’s chest, once more arms wrapping around them tight*

Boy: Then I won't let go till day break. Night night ‘Master.’

Child: *Laughing softly* Goodnight, love.

[END]

Love and War pt 2

--- Last Time ---

Boy: Wait for me. It's only a few hours till sunrise. I’ll…. I’ll be by your side from then on. Just wait ‘til then.

*With that the boy turns to leave smiling sadly, before putting on his hood and walking into one of the tents. The Child watches them go*

Child: I’ll wait forever. Always.

*Taking a deep breath, the Child strides towards his own tent. He had some things to do before the next day. Yet despite this, tomorrow couldn’t come soon enough.*

--- Main Camp, Unknown Location ---

*After a brief night’s rest, the troop rises early and takes down camp, with the Child overseeing that everything was packed and all traces of the group would be gone. Assigning one of the group as leader temporarily, the Child makes sure to cover their tracks, that the nature seemed undisturbed using their abilities, before making sure that their own special servants released the illusions that had kept the entire camp hidden from enemy eyes. Inclining their head to the furry creatures, who vanished, the Child quickly catches up to the rest of the troop.*

*The journey to the main camp was fairly long, taking most of a day, but it was thankfully uneventful, the scouts he had assigned catching sight of any trouble before they reached it so they could remain out of sight. Even so, the Child only starts to relax as they finally enter the safety of the main camp. He sighed, relieved, before quickly giving out the last orders of where to deposit the cargo and where the injured should be taken, before taking the many report files that he would need to offer to the other commanders of their missions before glancing over to the one person he had not yet given orders to - the Boy*

Child: I need to give the commanders an update of our mission’s successes. Since you need to meet with them anyway with those strategies, you should come as well. If nothing else, we can let the commanders that are here know to be sure to gather the others, if you’re not yet ready for a large audience?

Boy: ...Yes… Sir.

*The boy straightens his posture and quickly checks inside his satchel, checking to see if its contents still remained*

Boy: I won't lie, I’m slightly shaken since it's my first time doing this. I know it will be different from those hypothetical scenarios I’ve gone over with uncle. But… I, um. Oh, I’m not complaining, but putting my plan into action and having the fate of all these people being weighed on by these documents….  So this is what it’s really like…

*Gripping the strap on his satchel, as if to hide his fear*

Boy: the responsibility, and guilt frightens me.

*Gently, the Child grips the boy’s shoulder and offers a comforting, empathetic smile*

Child: I understand that feeling myself. While some have come to see me as some kind of patron for them, I am not a war god, not truly. *a sorrowful look crosses their face* I am someone who wishes to see life grow, not….*they sigh* Still, this is the current lot that I’ve been given. Still, what you have with you, you truly could save lives. And that is something you should never fear. But know that you are not alone. I will support you, always, and there are many here who will support you as well. We will all work together in this, we can all bare this burden together.

Boy: Yeah, you’re right. I-I’ll try and steady my nerves for now.

*The boy inches closer, but still at a respectful distance, mentally going over the plan in his head as they make their way towards the strategy room.*

Boy: Oh! I must say, this is a lot more fortified than our precious camp, not a flaw in sight. I’m impressed.

Child: *Chuckling* Well, I did say that this is our more permanent base of operations, and there is more than just myself fortifying it. The temporary camp was something guarded by illusions and magic, to keep it hidden, and people away. Here, we have more to help with fortifications as well as just magic. We even have strategists as well who could see any extra flaws that others might have missed. Still, that you feel better about it, it certainly means this camp must be as safe as home. Or as close to it as one can get in war, anyway.

Boy: I understand, but then, wouldn't you be better off building a temporary fortress? You‘ve been here for the majority of your time away from home, surely that would of at least been warmer than the tents and sturdier too? According to the plan we… Ah! You still have a year and a half left to go. So...

Child: Actually, we have had to move our main camp around as well. As the lines of the war move, so must we. Not to mention that even if we made an fortress in the way you’re thinking, the enemy has flyers. They’d still get in. As it is, while it doesn’t seem as though it’s a fortress, there is something here that works just as well. Perhaps I’ll show you afterwards, but there is a barrier here. We have various gods who are specialized in magic to help with that, after all. Though, while it allows us to move if needed, it certainly isn’t as comfortable as a fortress might be….

*They sigh, but shrug*

Child: Comfort seems to often be the first casualty of war, beyond the obvious.

Boy: Still I wish we had a sun god to warm this place up. It's freezing!

*The boy tightens their cloak, trembling slightly, regretting his outfit choices*

Boy: why does the snow have to be so cold? I we can't have comfort can we at least have some heat? Its supposed to be spring and its still snowing.. The hell.

Voice: Ah, I’m afraid that Father is a little busy at the moment, but I’m sure he’ll arrive soon enough.

*As they approach the strategy room, there is a young seeming man who stands before it, having overheard what they were saying. The Child offers a smile to the newcomer, but before anything else can be said, the Boy mutters to the Child in a hushed tone*

Boy: I ask for hot weather, not a hot guy. Whose answering wishes, coz I think they need hearing aids, jeez. But, then again…

New Guy: Huh? Um….I wouldn’t say that. I think I’m a regular temperature to everyone else?

Child: ...And this is why in this case there is no way I could actually be jealous here.

New Guy: ???

Child: Never mind. Anyway, H. You have good timing. There is someone you need to meet. *He quickly offers the Boy’s name to H, and H’s name to the Boy*

H: Hello! It’s nice to see a new face. I hope we’ll work well together.

Boy: Likewise. Oh, if I may ask, what position do you hold here? I’m new to this base, so I want to get to know my fellow soldiers and my superiors.

H: Oh, I’m one of the commanders here. Despite being….mostly mortal, my companions feel that my abilities serve them well here.

Boy: I can feel...oh, maybe I was wrong, but I-I thought you were a god...?

H: I am….It’s a little complicated. Haha. But, well, I incarnate myself, you see. It means that I can actually interact with mortals much more than the average god, and bypasses a few of the laws. I could never stand back and not help my people, you know? Though I suppose it’s not the most efficient way of working. Either way, despite the down sides, I can’t say I’ve ever regretted it.

*The boys eyes fill with awe, and a smile appears on his face*

Boy: That's really admirable! I hope to be like you one day. I want to help my people anyway I can, be it working with them or working for them. Would you mind giving me pointers some time?

*H gives a bright smile, eyes sparkling*

H: Of course! I’d love to help! It’ll be nice to talk to you about it. Hopefully before my next incarnation, of course, though if you remind me about it after then, I’m sure I’d help out then, too.

Boy: S-Sure.

*Grabbing H’s hand with determined eyes and a big grin*

Boy: U-um, let's work hard together so we build a better world. Plus, I may be needing your help sooner than you think - I’m still in training, but I’ll be like you guys soon enough, hehe.

H: I’m sure you’ll be much stronger than myself one day. But I think you’ll get there. Just believe in yourself too! I look forwards to seeing you with the rest of the commanders one day. Oh! Speaking of commanders, you must be wanting to meet them, right? I’ll go gather them up for you two. Be right back!

*H offers one last smile, before darting off. The Child laughs softly*

Child: Ah, I believe you’ve made a new friend. Would you believe that H is actually a war god? Most of us thinks he simply makes the enemy hate the idea of fighting him and they all surrender so they don’t need to make him look sad and disappointed.

Boy: Hehe! I can see why. He is kind of cute, especially when he smiles, huh?

Child: It’s almost impossible to think otherwise. Even the most stern of us can’t bare to see him give the puppy eyes. I’ve even seen Z balk at the idea once. It was hilarious to see him attempt to deny H.

Boy: Pft, can't make you the least bit jealous, can I? That dumb dumb actually tried… I think I can see the other gods giving him hell for that.

Child: If it was anyone else, yes, I’m sure you could make me jealous. You’re someone who could have anyone you wanted, after all. But H…..well, H is everyone’s exception. Besides, H is pretty loyal to his own loved one. Would you believe he is married? I actually felt sorry for his wife. You guessed right about the gods being extremely protective of H. Partly because of his mortality, but mostly because he is just…..hard not to like, I suppose?

Boy: Master, are you not sure that? YOU are the one with many suitors. Literally, remember when we were younger? I had to practically fend them off with a stick! ‘N... wait, what? Married!?!?! What heathen would defile that cinnamon roll!?!?! She must have seduced him!  Dear lord!

*The Boy pretends be disturbed by the though dramatically posing*

Child: *Laughing* And that is exactly the reaction his wife got. It took forever to get that mess cleaned up, because H started tearing up. No one could say no to him after that. It’s a good job he isn’t conceited. As for me, perhaps I did have Suitors, but….

*Making sure they wouldn’t be seen, they gently touch the Boy’s cheek for a moment*

Child: But I only ever had eyes for you.

*Feeling himself turn a faint shade of crimson, the boy looks down*

Boy: Ah, there it is - the smooth talker strikes again, stealing the hearts of million once more. Jeez, let this meeting be short so we can go back to your tent already.

Child: The only heart I want is yours, my dear. Alas, true, this meeting is more important and could take a while. H should be back with the others soon, so we should get settled in the room. It should be warmer than out here, that’s for sure.

*They bow slightly, motioning with an arm towards the entrance.

Child: After you.

Boy: *Mumble* I repeat what I said. But I’ll forgive you. Your gentleman side somehow always wins me over….

*He winks, then sighs playfully*

Boy: I’m doomed, aren't I? You could do anything and get away with it, just coz you smile, hahaha.

*Walking into the tent, the Boy’s eyes grow wide*

Boy: So, this is the real thing, huh?

Child: Yes. This is the real thing. Welcome to the war, my dear.

[END]

Love and War Pt 1

--- Battlefield, Unknown location ---

*The skirmish against the enemy had not been going quite as planned. A smaller team, being lead by the Child, had organised a raid against the enemy, in order to prevent resources from arriving at their original destinations. However, various complications had occurred. Despite performing their duties, they had unfortunately crossed paths with some of the enemy troops and forced to flee, in order to get wounded and pilfered resources and weaponry away.*

*Upon fleeing, they had managed to separate out those chasing after the team, the fastest reaching first and could be cut down, rather than them being overpowered by numbers. However, they still needed to get rid of the main group that was still on their tails, having realised that separation was what the team had been hoping for, and many of the team were tiring*

Child: Archer, move to the higher ground and cover the escape of the wounded and those with resources. I only need you to hold them off for a little while. *clenching their fist* I had been hoping to keep this quiet for now, but our team’s safety is a priority.

Archer: Understood!

*As the troop quickly flees, the archer quickly jumps on top of a building that had been almost reduced to rubble, firing quick arrows against the enemy, while the Child begins preparing their secret attack*

*For a brief second, the child’s archer pauses. A small bell sounds tinkles closer to the child, before two booming shot are fired. In the enemy's direction, a hooded figure slowly approached the child*

‘Hooded Stranger’:  You really should only use ‘that’ as a last result. Using it now wouldn't be as effective as you think. So, why not use me as a tool? I’m here to test my abilities in battle anyway. Master?

*For a moment, the Child seems stunned, before closing their eyes, a smirk playing on their face.*

Child:...Heh….Very well then. I hope to see your power in action, then. *Opening their eyes, expression determined.* Try not to show the enemy too much. But if you do….make sure there’s none left to tell about it.

‘Hooded Stranger’: Sir!

*With that, the Hooded Figure set to work, jumping into the enemy lines, quickly braking though the first wave of attacks,  a few sparks of light escapes the boy attire before he falls back*

Archer: Sir, who or what is that? Are they our ally?

Child: *smiling* Indeed, yes. Still, Use this time wisely and make sure to get yourself to safety along with the rest of the troup. Our ally and myself will cover your escape and catch up to you. As you can see, our friend has it covered.

*After a while, the hooded figure returns, limping slightly, staff and lantern in hand, slowly making their way in the direction that the Child’s men were headed*

Hooded stranger:  Damn, I think I over did it. Stubborn bastards wouldn't die.

*Wincing slightly, due to the scratches from his fight*

Hooded Stranger: I hope they don’t scar. A lady shouldn't have scars on her body. Eep! What if he hate me for it? Oh no!!!

Child: P-Pft!

*Chuckling ever so slightly at what the Hooded ‘stranger’s’ concerns actually were, the Child strides forwards and in a quick movement, scoops the stranger into their arms*

Child: Ah, my hero, I certainly don’t believe that the scars would be offputting, even if you were to gain them. I believe that the fact you are here is far more important. And that you are not seriously harmed. Still, if you don’t mind baring with the pain a little while longer, then I am certain that our camp healers will make sure your skin remain unmarked.

Hooded Stranger: Ah, yes my-

*The Hooded ‘Stranger’ catches himself before he lets the words slip*

Hooded Stranger: Yes Sir! U-um only if it doesn't affect the morale of you and your men, then… then i shall accompany you for now.

Child: *Smiling* Oh, believe me, your presence certainly would not cause any drop in morale to the soldiers. I do believe that, when those in command are happy, the men often feel happy as well. After all, you helped save the lives of the injured and allowed them to escape with our objective complete. Yes, indeed, you will certainly be welcomed.

*Not bothering to put down the ‘Stranger’, the Child quickly races off, leaving their enemies bodies behind.*

*A few hour pass and they reach camp. The child slowly lowers the hooded stranger to their feet, and the stranger lets down their hood*

Hooded Stranger: So this is camp Master? Its rather…. Vulnerable from what i can see, you really should….

*For a short while the Stranger begins to talk making suggestions, before catching themselves and slowly looking at the child, and apologizing for running their mouth.*

Child: If this was our main camp, I would agree. However, for now this is temporary, as we are to pack up and move quickly. Not to mention, that just because you can see where we are, doesn’t mean the enemy can. *Smirking* Do you believe that I wouldn’t have considered such things. Silly, if I left this place entirely vulnerable, then we would either have died a long time ago, or I would have stepped down as a leader. Still, if you are with us long enough to reach the main camp, you are welcome to give the strategists a talking to if you believe those to be unsuitable.

Stranger: Yes, of course, Master. If it is your wish, Then I will follow you to the ends of the earth… as long as you don’t tire of me, that is.

*the stranger smiles happily*

Child: You know that I could never tire of you. Ah, if we were alone….But for now, to the healer. Once your wounds are healed, we can speak more. *They smile fondly* I think we have much to talk about, and I would like to hear how things have been since we last spoke. *winking* once you’re sure that you don’t need to worry about my being upset over scars, of course. *Laughing gently*

Stranger: W-WELL AS A WOMAN, I SHOULDN'T HAVE SCARS *pout* Aunt V said that a woman’s skin should be flawless, or men won’t look their way *sulk*

Child: Ah, but you already have my attention. Whether you had scars or not, you are still my everything. And besides, would you say that your Aunt A was unattractive, despite also leading people in this war?

Stranger: But I intend to keep your eyes on me, and only on me, when you’re not involved in war. Not to mention that the more the goddesses age, the more beautiful they become. In comparison, I’m still an ugly duckling

*The stranger sulks more this time, befor a booming voice echoes around the medical tent*

Doctor: What an interesting conversation you both seem to be having. May I cut in to check on the last of my patients? I must say, she’s a bit of a strange one, am I right? What’s her name, Master?

Child: Ah, strange ‘she’ might be, but I believe that I happen to like strange over a porcelain doll. After all, I find that that is far, far more interesting than any pretty face with no personality. I’d rather have both. Even with scars or otherwise, since it just gives me something else to keep my eyes on.

*They wink to the ‘Stranger’, knowingly. After all, the Child certainly was not about to leave the Stranger thinking ill of themselves, when they were their whole world. That said, they fully turn their attention to the Doctor and nudges the ‘Stranger’ into the Doctor’s care.*

Child: Do you not recognise the hero of the day, my dear doctor? I’m a little surprised. Even I knew who my shining angel hero is. Though perhaps I am biased and could never mistake who they are, no matter how they grow, or how beautiful they become.

*The Stranger turns to face the Child, their face dyed red as they do so*

Stranger: M-master, you talk too much, a-and you really-

*The Boy’s words are cut short, only to be picked up by the doctor*

Doctor: Oh, is this the little master that is always beside you? Wow, you’ve grown so much in the past year and a half! I barely recognised you!!!

Boy: Y-yes, Doctor, time will do that to you, hahaha. Oh, before they get worse, please can you heal me? Despite what they say, I rather not have scars. So, if you could…?

Doctor: Yes, yes hold still.

*With those words the doctor raised his hands and casts his healing spell, after a while the child and the boy set off.*

Child: Aesthetics aside, it is something of a shame that you prefer not to have a hint of scars. It might have given me reason to find more things to kiss. *they cuckle softly, before the mischief fades and their smile becomes fond, warm* I must displease you in appearence, then. I’m afraid even we gods are not unscathed in this war.

Boy: … You’re always handsome, whether asleep, awake, scared or not, I’ve never been able to take my eyes away from you. You’re like a work of art, you even make the flowers jealous. So that’s the last thing I want to hear from you… silly.

Child: Ah, but as a woman, am I not supposed to be unscarred? *They chuckle* Well, I suppose for someone like myself, it is something that can be hidden, if I felt a change of form were in order. Still, Much as you wish not to hear such depreciating talk from me, I wish not to hear it from you, either. You’re perfect to me, after all. Awake or asleep, scarred or not. You are the only one that I would ever look at.

*The Child smiles more.*

Child: Ah, but that you came as you did, like an avenging angel. You certainly know how to make an entrance. I may have fallen for you all over again.

Boy: Ack…. Throwing my words back at me, huh? Hahahaha, well I was late to the party, so I thought I get your attention that way. But I was a bit hasty and got a little scratched up. But it was worth it, just to see you in person. My Lo- …..Master. Sorry, I keep almost letting it slip, hahaha

Child: That you’re trying is still more than you may have done when we were last truely together. Perhaps we should speak in private, so you don’t need to worry about it for now? We can use the strategy tent to speak. After all, I hope to hear of your training that has made you so strong in such a short time.

*Without it looking too strange, the child leans a little closer as they lift the flap of the tent for the Boy to enter*

Child: *whispering* I also wish to spend a little time as myself, rather than as commander.

*The boy blushes, darting into the tent, trying to calm himself before speaking to the child again*

Boy: When we get to the main camp… I’ll let you see ‘exactly’ what fruits my training has raised. If you are indeed interested.

Child: Of course I’m interested. Indeed, I have missed so much, even with your furry companion’s help. And you know I would wish to hear anything about you.

Boy: W-well... um... Oh! I have a message from Aunty A - well, it's more of a battle strategy. To end this phase of the war, when we get back to the main camp, we’ll need to address the rest of those in your command. She said that if all goes to plan, you should be able to come home in six months, give or take, with little casualties.

Child: Indeed? I shouldn’t be surprised. A certainly is one of the best strategists around, even greater than several god’s of war. Even H, sometimes, though….well….H has his own methods. But if A’s strategy goes as planned….It would certainly be a source of hope for us all

Boy: Exactly, even that woman thinks so. If I can trouble you for the next few months, then I'll be able to help implement the strategy.  That is if i’m not overstepping my bounds… I know I’m still a foot soldier, but I know this plan better than anyone, and I’m good at countering enemy attack patterns, so I know I can help you, if you let me.

*The boy looks at the Child, his eyes hold an unwavering confidence.*

Child: Foot soldier or not, if you have a strategy that could help us through this, especially due to your training, then we would be foolish commanders not to listen. You are certainly better suited to reiterate A’s thoughts on the matter. As long as you speak in respect - as you always do when it is serious - I see no reason for anyone to disregard your words.

Boy: Thank you, my love. I’ll do my best to explain my case.

*Nodding in agreement, they spend the few remaining hours of sunlight discussing the battle strategy, before returning to the sleeping tents.*

Boy: Which way to the tents for soldiers? Should I join them?

Child: As much as I really, really want to say no….. *Sighing sadly* It would be for the best. We’re not yet at main camp, and must be ready to move quickly, not tire ourselves out. We’ll arrange a bed for you. We move out in the morning. Ready to join this war?

Boy: Yes Master…. Hey, what do you mean tire ourselves out!?!?

Child: *Amused, but purposefully doesn’t reply* Tents are that way.

*Before leaving, the boy looks around, making sure no one is in sight, before wrapping their arms around the child, breathing in their scent*

Boy: Well, good night then

*The boy quietly kisses the child and begins to pulls away, however, the Child quickly pulled him in for just a little longer, giving him a desperate hug, showing just how much he had truly been missed, even if the Child had otherwise been able to hide the intensity of their feeling*

Child: I missed you so much…..

*Taking a shaky breath, they give a quick kiss, and slowly released the boy once more*

Child: Goodnight

Boy: Wait for me. It's only a few hours till sunrise. I’ll…. I’ll be by your side from then on. Just wait ‘til then.

*With that the boy turns to leave smiling sadly, before putting on his hood and walking into one of the tents. The Child watches them go*

Child: I’ll wait forever. Always.

*Taking a deep breath, the Child strides towards his own tent. He had some things to do before the next day. Yet despite this, tomorrow couldn’t come soon enough.*

[END]