Disclaimer: Kingdom Hearts and its characters do not belong to me for a hundredth time...

A/N: Whew, long chapter! Okay, well, longer than usual... I wonder who even reads LyS anymore... I'm slow at updating, I know, but life is hectic. So I want to thank those who have reviewed and left words of support! And a special thanks to terrahotaru for supporting me the entire time. Without her I wouldn't have finished this chapter! Thank you for looking over the flow of this for me, dear!

All righty then. Enjoy reading and don't mind some of the errors you might find for now...I can't bring myself to run through 20 000 words at the momefnt, so I'll eventually fix it.

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Swaying Emotions

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“They’re so beautiful,” Axel whispered breathlessly, his voice piercing the comforting silence that floated in the air.

Roxas’ eyes gradually rose upwards, longing to gaze into Axel’s own. He smiled dazedly as though he was drunk with sheer bliss. “What do you speak of, my love? A field of delicate flowers? A flock of snow-white doves soaring towards the setting sun? The clouds that angels sleep on?”

“Your irises, as always.” Axel swept Roxas’ feathery bangs aside with a gentle flick of his wrist and smiled as he lost himself in beautiful ocean blue. “Ever so stunning,” the servant remarked, his voice hushed and laced with adoration. “They contrast the warmth of the sky quite magnificently. When I think of the gem on my finger, I am reminded of how alluring your eyes are. And all I want is to gaze into them for an eternity.”

Warmth pooled in Roxas’ cheeks and coloured them a pastel pink. “Such flattering words you spout… But I think the very same whenever I lay eyes upon this.” The emerald green gem sitting on the crown of his ring glistened on cue as he tilted his hand towards the hills. The remaining glint of sunlight danced on it frivolously and Axel caught its glimmer from the corner of his eye.

“My only regret is not being able to grace you with a genuine gem,” Axel confessed forlornly, pouting like a heartbroken pup.

The cost of one simple ring was incredibly high due to the authentic gem’s sharp quality and rarity. It would be several years before Axel could afford one, but it was a goal he was willing to reach for if it meant bringing Roxas even more happiness.

“I am utterly content with this one, Axel. To me, its value surpasses that of an authentic gem because of its significance.” Roxas drew his servant’s hand up and pecked the tiny rock that smiled at him. “Even if you had graced me with the most diminutive gem in the market I would wear it proudly on my finger and admire it for an eternity.”

Despite the prince’s words of comfort and content, a hint of remorse twinkled in Axel’s eye, almost like a tear reflecting a bright light. “You still deserve the very best.” Words came out in a soft murmur, as though they were meant to fade into the gentle breeze, but Roxas’ ears were swift enough to grasp them.

“You mustn’t make such ridiculous jests, my love!” Laughter rung in the air and leapt across the field as the prince rewarded his servant with a playful shove. “I don’t deserve many of the wonderful things I receive. I honestly wonder…”

Axel leaned in, opening his ears so he could welcome the rest of Roxas’ words. But once again, the prince gave his servant a little shove, almost as if he was shying away. Axel tripped over his own foot this time and plummeted into the thick sea of grass, vanishing from plain sight.

“I wonder if I truly deserve your loyalty.” The prince cupped his hands together and allowed a faint sigh to spill from his thin lips, eyes narrowing slightly from dejection. “I have been so cruel as of late. Banishing you…inflicting emotional pain on you…”

Axel’s head peeked out from the tall grass and concern flashed in his eyes. “B-but of course!” he exclaimed, grasping Roxas’ hand and pulling the boy closer. “You deserve much better than me! I am merely a-a former servant—a-and for you to-to protect me—I have yet to thank you for being so considerate and loving. It is I who should wonder—”

“Oh? Perhaps I should test you,” the young prince interjected with a teasing tone. “If you truly love me and wonder if you deserve my love, then…” Roxas paused abruptly and gave his servant one final shove. Axel fell flat onto his back, dilated eyes aimed only at the purplish sky. “Capture me. And we will discover the truth.” The prince gathered his belongings from the ground and laughed as he frolicked towards the horizon.

“You dare push a man three times until his back kisses the ground?! Such vulgar behaviour, young Frae!” Axel hastily rolled over, collected his belongings and began to sprint after his beloved across the field with a wide grin attached to his lips. Even during this playful moment, the servant admired Roxas’ every feature, like he was an ethereal being from another realm, so fascinating and alluring, unlike anything in the real world.

The wind weaved through the prince’s hair and lifted nearly every strand, making them sway elegantly. Eyes sparkled vividly with excitement every time Roxas glanced behind his shoulder. And the sound of his sweet laughter strummed the strings of Axel’s heart, causing it to beat briskly against his ribcage.

The servant was determined to capture that beautiful being known as his master.

They zigzagged several times and redirected themselves with their heels when Axel nearly grasped the tips of Roxas’ billowing cloak. Eventually they escaped from the tall blades of grass and rushed into a smaller field where it became much easier to run.

Breaths came out raggedly and movements slowed as Roxas grew tired. Axel grinned victoriously and took the golden opportunity to tackle-hug the boy to the ground. Both squealed, laughed and panted from their silliness as they tumbled through the grass with their limbs tangled together. Loose bits of green and yellow latched onto their garments and hair during their little tussle, leaving everything a dishevelled mess.

Almost completely drained of their energy, the young couple landed beside one another. They breathed unevenly and gazed into each other’s half-lidded eyes, disregarding the fallen objects scattered around them.

“You…are mine.” Axel wheezed out his words in triumph and then laughed hoarsely.

“I am…yours,” Roxas agreed, sliding his long fingers delicately along his servant’s warm cheek. “I always have been.” A silly smile graced his flushed features as Axel kissed each of his fingers with gentle lips. Then the couple relaxed on the field, taking their precious time to recover from their short game of tag.

The cool stream of wind enveloping their bodies had never felt so comforting until now. Axel inched forward, leaned his head against Roxas’ shoulder and gazed at the cool gradient hanging in the sky, feeling unperturbed. The thin tips of grass tickled their fingers and toes, and they did nothing but smile at the tingling sensations.

Axel inhaled the refreshing scent of sunflowers and grass as he smiled at the clouds in admiration. Those white balls of fluff were so free to travel from kingdom to kingdom as long as the wind was willing to carry them. Clouds reminded Axel of how Roxas used to sit on his favourite window seat curled in a little ball with an adorable pout attached to his features. The prince had often dreamed of living a wonderful life filled with bliss, freedom, and excitement.

“So many changes have occurred in the span of seven months…” But there was so much more to think about.

“Have you ever wondered about our future?” the servant suddenly asked, craning his neck another inch to once again meet eyes with his beloved. “B-before this incident, I mean.” Smiling coyly, he gestured his chin towards the silver bands wrapped around their fingers.

“I have always wanted to escape from this kingdom with you so we could begin a new life with fewer difficulties,” Roxas answered calmly, as though he’d been expecting that question for the longest time.

With a soft sigh he gently raked his fingers through Axel’s unruly hair and elicited quiet hums of delight. “We could both earn our wealth and live a quiet life together in a kingdom where no one would ever disturb our peace. I could become a skilful performer and act in theatrical shows. Peasants and nobles from far away kingdoms would watch and awe at my prowess.”

Ever since the prince witnessed the success of “Romeo and Juliet” within the castle, he yearned to take part in a Shakespearean play. Professional actors and actresses portrayed the fictional characters with so much charisma and passion that they captivated the viewers with ease, sending them into a world overflowing with drama, romance, and adventure. Roxas admired their unique abilities to absorb the attention of others.

“My, if you were to become a performer, whatever would I do?” Axel assumed he would have a more significant job, considering the fact that he was older and had more experience.

But Roxas, being the sympathetic prince, thought otherwise.

“You would have a more relaxing occupation,” came his matter-of-factly answer. Puffing his chest out proudly, the prince flashed his servant a broad smile and winked an eye. “You are deserving of one after all of the difficult times you have been through.”

Blinking bewilderedly, Axel attempted to wrap his mind around the heavenly idea of having a relaxing position in any kingdom. To him, it was simply strange to hear the words “relaxing” and “occupation” uttered in the very same statement, especially since he’d spent the past three months or so slaving in dim and dirty chambers. He had only ever seen slivers of light spill through the gaps between heavy velvet curtains.

Axel shifted upwards and planted a tender kiss on the boy’s cheek as a small token of his gratitude. “You are too kind. Even if we lived in another kingdom it would please me to serve you. But allow me to ask; did you have another task in mind for me?”

The confident smile on Roxas’ face melted into a bashful one when heat sprung into his tingling cheeks. “W-well, you would become a wonderful baker or a gentle florist gracing everyone with nature’s beauties. After a long, but wonderful day at work…you would witness my flawless performances and clap along with the peasants or nobles. On special occasions you would present flowers or loaves of honey bread to me, congratulating me on my success.”

The prince pressed his lips together, realizing how selfish that wish sounded. His servant’s imaginary future had been predetermined, after all. Perhaps the man wanted to do more in his life…Perhaps he wanted to train to become a servant in the new kingdom. Or maybe even a knight of some sort.

But Axel honestly adored the idea of being a florist or a baker, because it meant he could do so much more for the young prince.

“I assure you, I would shower you with gifts every day,” the servant corrected with a small chuckle, and then slid his eyes shut. Looping his arms around Roxas’ slender waist, he inched closer, pressing their mildly wrinkled cloaks together, and nuzzled into the boy’s cheek.

The images flashing in Axel’s mind were absolutely perfect thus far. To rehearse for a play, Roxas stood in front of a two-framed mirror and recited lines. His eyebrows were furrowed in concentration and his voice was more charismatic than usual.

Axel worked in the kitchen and prepared delectable desserts and tea to reward the boy for his hard work. In the end, they sat on the cushions in main room, which was dimly lit by the fireplace to create a romantic atmosphere. Under a small mountain of woolly sheets they snuggled together and shared tea and desserts, then shared stories of their easy-going days.

Everything Roxas had mentioned seemed so simple yet desirable at the same time. It defeated the idea of living a difficult life in a kingdom with low tolerance.

Axel gestured his chin towards the prince and smiled, silently encouraging the boy to share more details about this special dream of living together in peace.

“During the evenings,” Roxas continued with a contented sigh, stroking his servant’s shoulder, “we would argue over who would prepare dinner.”

Eyelashes fluttered as Axel blinked rapidly in confusion. “Surely I would cook for you. I have a relaxing job after all.” It seemed like a role reversal in Axel’s eyes. In this imaginary life, Roxas was working much harder than him.

“Ah, but I do enjoy making meals for you as well, my love,” the prince chimed, a cute grin racing across his lips. “In the end though, we decide to make the meals together…because we both desire the same thing.”

“And sometimes we would make love…” A flush of embarrassment warmed the boy’s face and he sealed his lips together to prevent such silly words from escaping. That was one of the scenarios he felt he could never reveal to his beloved. It might have been accepted as an impure thought.

Nodding in concurrence, Axel sighed dreamily at the new images floating in his mind. “And at night?” he asked eagerly, breathlessly, bunching his fingers into Roxas’ cloak like a child wanting to play with his closest friends.

“After dinner and cleaning, we bathe one another…” The prince sighed softly, recalling all of the different evening scenarios that had ever played in his mind. “And when we retreat into our bedroom, we would hold one another and sleep, basking in each other’s warmth.”

Axel breathed out a sigh of content and closed his eyes to imagine the rest of his fantastical life with Roxas. The thought of waking next to Roxas in the morning seemed endearing. The former prince would be lying there, breathing evenly, softly, while soaking in the warm glow given off by the morning sun. And Axel would stroke his cheek with slender fingers until it was time to cook a morning meal. “Such a wonderful dream…”

“A simple, unreachable dream torn apart by my duties as a prince,” Roxas reminded himself with a dejected sigh, shattering the romantic ambience that hung in the air. If Axel hadn’t been resting comfortably on his shoulder, Roxas would have torn out a fist full of grass from the earth. But no, the prince refused to contaminate the man’s mind with more concern.

“A prince loyal to his duties will make a respectable king,” Axel provided suavely, tapping the tip of Roxas’ nose with a finger. He shifted in his spot so he could nuzzle into Roxas’ neck. Wanting nothing more than to shower the boy with affection, the servant littered butterfly kisses all over his master’s neck, sending jolts of joy down the boy’s spine. “My future king, I will miss you dearly…”

Roxas rolled on top of his servant and gazed deeply into the emerald green irises, silently pleading for more affection. “I will truly miss the warmth you constantly offered me whenever I was stricken with despair. So please…will you hold me tightly once again and kiss me?”

Axel reached up and gently caressed the back of his master’s head, soothing the boy’s concerns with a simple touch. “With great pleasure,” he whispered, sincerity laced around his words.

The couple brought their lips together and shared a slow, passionate kiss while Axel slid his fingers down Roxas’ back, leaving trails of warmth behind. Lanky arms soon looped around the prince’s entire frame, enveloping his body for a tight embrace. Their noses were gently pressed together and they could feel each other’s lips curve into a sad smile.

“I pray you will always remember the feeling of having me in your arms,” the prince murmured against Axel’s moist lips, eyes half-lidded and glazed with an odd mixture of passion and worry. Long fingers trailed along the servant’s cheeks as Roxas placed another soft kiss on the man’s lips. “And I will remember the feeling of being held by the man I love. I never want to forget such a wonderful sensation.”

With a sad smile still evident on his face, Axel gave his prince a gentle squeeze, silently promising he would never allow his body to ever forget the feeling of holding someone so dear.

For several quiet minutes, Roxas rested his head against Axel’s chest, just to hear the comforting rhythms of a heartbeat. The beat of his own became erratic as fear wrapped cold chains around it, dragging it down into an abyss of despair. It was extremely difficult to fight against these nerve wracking emotions. Roxas had made the harsh decision of banishing his servant within a day’s time. He didn’t have the luxury of taking consequences into consideration earlier, but thinking about them now made him panic, for there were many scenarios to fear.

What if Axel becomes plagued with an illness so potent it would endanger his life? No one would have the abilities to heal him and he would perish alone.

Biting down harshly on his lower lip, Roxas quickly banished the dreadful thought from his mind. Of course, Princess Olette would find a way to have his life spared! “He will be cared for and I will be informed!” A shaky sigh spilled from Roxas’ lips, immediately catching Axel’s attention.

What if you were forced to have Naminé bear your child early? How could Axel ever claim you as his own if you’ve surrendered your body to another? How would he react if he discovered the next heir to the kingdom upon his return?

“No…I belong to Axel! We made a vow! I swore my body, heart and soul to him for an eternity! I would never offer my body to another!” Roxas’ mind desperately argued. “I have made the right decision. Protecting Axel is my priority!”

Every time the prince trembled, Axel tightened his hold on the boy, like a protective knight, thrusting aside the disturbing feelings attacking Roxas’ pure little heart. Words of comfort were then whispered into the prince’s ears and all the boy could do was pout apologetically in return, eyes glazed with wetness known as tears.

“You must be strong, Roxas. I cannot escape from this kingdom if your heart aches so terribly from fear of our separation. I refuse to leave you in such a state! I will protect you if I must!” Axel boldly declared, tightening his fingers around Roxas’ waist to emphasize how serious he was. “I love you, Roxas. I will do everything in my power to protect you, even at the risk of my own life.”

Heat crept into Roxas’ cheeks and dyed them a deep red. “I-I-I understand that very well, my love,” he stammered through his embarrassment, wishing he’d never revealed any signs of weakness. “I promise I will overcome this terrible sensation swimming inside of me.”

Grateful for Axel’s sympathy, Roxas soon smiled and nuzzled into the man’s chest, easing his tense muscles. “I promise,” he repeated with a soft chuckle. And for the remainder of his time in the field, Roxas’ body ceased to quiver, for his servant’s words swept away his worries once again, like a strong current in the ocean. “Oh, how I love him so…” he thought with a silly smile plastered to his lips. “I mustn’t concern myself with such trivial matters for now. Axel is strong and dependable…a-and surely he knows I will never give my body to another. At least…not until we make love first…” Roxas’ thoughts came to an abrupt pause and his face overheated with embarrassment in mere seconds. “G-good lord! I’m allowing Princess Olette to influence me!”

“My love, are you well?” Axel glanced up and discovered that Roxas had buried his face completely into his cloak. He found it rather peculiar how there were no tears dampening his cloak.

“Q-quite,” the prince meekly replied, revealing one eye to his servant. Though he couldn’t see it without a mirror, Roxas knew for a fact that his face was cherry-red. If he revealed either side of his cheek to Axel, the man would certainly catch sight of his heavy blush. “I f-feel much better,” he squeaked, like a tiny mouse in a kitchen.

The bangs in front of Roxas’ forehead shifted as another gust of wind blew. Axel tried to make proper eye contact, but the prince didn’t seem to like that idea. “Are you certain?” the servant wondered, just as he brushed aside the golden bangs himself. “You seem rather flushed.”

“I’m perfectly well!” the young prince lied, briefly digging his face deeper into Axel’s cloak, if that was even possible.

The servant shrugged nonchalantly and chuckled, finding it amusing how the prince was treating his body like a soft cushion. He waited patiently, knowing Roxas could not conceal his face forever—not with nightfall approaching at quick rate. Several minutes rushed by and as Axel waited for the stars to appear in the night sky, he rubbed comforting circles on the prince’s back, providing the boy with warmth.

Vibrant balls of light arose from the grass and fluttered around the bodies that lay near their homes. Being in the presence of such wonderful little insects, Axel smiled and tapped the prince’s shoulders. “While you may be comfortable in your current position, I strongly suggest you witness this miraculous view before us, my love.”

Roxas tore his face from the fabric of his servant’s cloak, peeked up, and found a starlit sky beaming down on the kingdom. Awestruck, the prince propped himself up using the strength of his arms and studied the astonishing display, right before he noticed orbs of yellow light dancing around his body.

They were glowing in the field, illuminating the short blades of grass that poked out of the ground.

One of the orbs fluttered by Roxas’ cheeks and he beamed at it, realizing what it was. “Fireflies…!” the prince whispered breathlessly, giving his servant’s body a tight hug. Having never seen them up close, he felt excitement blossom inside of him. All he could think about was the beautiful display Axel had set up for him in the royal garden, and his heart drummed wildly with joy. “They are undeniably beautiful, Axel! It all feels surreal!”

He carefully sat up and reached a finger out to touch one but immediately recoiled when a strange creature suddenly poked its nose out from grass. Roxas hugged Axel for support and both of them sat up and squinted to get a better glance at the teal creature that was sniffing about rather wildly. Yet for some reason it seemed adorable at the same time. “Axel, what is…?”

Before Roxas could finish spouting out his question, the mysterious creature stuck its head out of the grass and yipped, making the prince’s eyes glitter with sheer excitement. He immediately identified the creature, having seen it hundreds of times in his storybooks as a child. “A-a-a Carbuncle!” he whispered ecstatically, beaming at the agile animal with his hands clasped together.

Spotting the shimmering gem on its forehead, Axel grinned and nodded. “Ah, you are correct!” he chirped, equally excited.

“I have only ever seen those in books! They are rare creatures indeed, but adorable and friendly according to Zexion!” Roxas had only ever dreamed of seeing one up close. He was thankful that the goddess of luck had been blessing him all day.

The Carbuncle glanced at Roxas for an entire minute and swung its puffy tail back and forth like a pendulum. It enticed the prince with its glimmering eyes, twitching nose, and notched ears. The creature sounded lively when it yipped or purred, and the prince just wanted to play with it. “Beckon it over, Axel!” Roxas eventually requested, voice quivering slightly.

At the command, the servant’s eyes dilated. “M-me?” he squeaked.

The wild Carbuncle scratched the back of its ear using its foot and then yipped cheerily when a firefly fluttered by. It chased the glowing orb and then tripped, earning a sharp gasp of horror from Roxas. Before he could even shower it with affection, the Carbuncle stood from the ground, shook its head rapidly from left to right, and sputtered cutely. “Oh please, Axel! I will reward you with a kiss!” Roxas begged, clasping his hands together and giving Axel the sweet, puppy-like eyes.

“You’re enticing me?!” Of course…Axel was one to fall for such a simple bribe. As long as it brought joy to the prince’s heart he was honestly willing to perform any task. He did swear he would make Roxas smile after all. “W-well…I-I shall do my best.” Axel reached around his neck and unknotted his representational ribbon so he could dangle it playfully in front of creature.

“You wish to sacrifice something precious?!” Roxas whispered shrilly, disappointment dripping from his words.

“At ease, my love. Carbuncles are not violent beasts of nature,” the servant promised, his voice hushed. “Rather they are innocent and playful, just like you.”

As Axel had predicted, the Carbuncle inched forward, one paw in front of the other, and sniffed around for any signs of danger. The curious creature pawed at the ribbon and Roxas smiled delightedly, wishing he could hug it against his chest and shower it with affection. “It’s very close!”

Gazing up at Roxas with curiosity twinkling in its beady eyes, the wild Carbuncle yipped and then climbed onto the boy’s lap, disregarding the ribbon completely. At first Roxas froze, thinking he would frighten the adorable creature with the slightest movement, but once it started flapping its tail around again, the prince just had to hold it. He simply refused to fight temptation. “Oh, Axel, look at how beautiful it is!” Without an ounce of hesitation lingering inside, Roxas scooped the harmless creature up and hugged it against his chest, earning little yips of delight.

“Very beautiful up close,” Axel admitted as a broad smile slid across his lips. He looped the ribbon around his neck and tied a little knot around the front, close to where his oesophagus was.

Suddenly Roxas leaned forward and planted a chaste kiss on Axel’s lips, and the servant nearly leapt out of his skin from the unexpectedness. “Your reward, my love.” Roxas clarified, a casual smile glued to his features. He returned to stroking the Carbuncle’s fur, while Axel merely sat there, dumbstruck. “Was that enough to please you?” the prince wondered with a teasing tone.

Swallowing thickly, the servant nodded, feeling heat crawl into his cheeks. “It was perfect,” he decided with a lopsided smile growing over his lips.

The couple watched intently as the Carbuncle hopped playfully on Roxas’ lap, delighting in the warmth the boy offered. It lapped at his fingers and purred lovingly as though the prince had been deemed its owner. “Such a well-behaved creature!”

“Perhaps it is a mother.” Axel rubbed his chin thoughtfully and focused on the gem embedded in the Carbuncle’s forehead. The colour was difficult to make out because the fireflies were practically drawn to it. Each and every one of them fluttered by every two seconds to admire the shiny jewel. It was as though the gem was a vibrant flame and the fireflies were foolish moths.

“How are you able to determine that?” the prince wondered aloud. A variety of possibilities boggled in his mind. Perhaps the mother’s tail was thinner than the father’s, or maybe it was the eyes that made the difference…

“When a Carbuncle gives birth, the coloured stone embedded in its head changes from violet to ruby red, indicating its status to all other Carbuncles,” Axel explained, smiling at the energetic animal hopping about.

“Oh, I can see it!” the young prince cheered, gesturing a chin at the stone poking out of the creature’s head. “The images in my books only displayed Carbuncles with the violet gems. I wonder why it was impossible for me to see a mother…”

A forlorn expression washed over Axel’s face as he reached forward to stroke the soft fur of the Carbuncle’s left ear. It purred sadly and nuzzled into the gentle fingers as though it was already thanking Axel for his sympathy. “They are very rare creatures because they are often hunted in the wild. Fortunately, slaying such gentle creatures in this kingdom is forbidden.”

“T-they are often h-hunted?!” Colour evaporated from Roxas’ face, purely from shock and disgust, and thus he tightened his hold on the beautiful creature as if promising to protect it forever. It squeaked in fear and hid behind his palm as if danger was approaching at an astounding speed. “How can anyone be so heartless?” With his eyes squeezed shut, Roxas bowed his head and shook it slowly. “Such cruelty…should not be forgiven…Why in the world would someone do it?”

Guilt slammed down on Axel’s shoulders when Roxas turned his neck and forced their eyes to connect. Had he not mentioned Carbuncles being hunted in the first place, the prince would not have yearned for more answers. Judging by the mixture of sadness and determination flickering in the boy’s eyes, Axel knew he had no choice but the spout out the awful truth. “The gems embedded in their foreheads are of great value to many nobles,” the servant murmured dejectedly. Regret began to seep into his veins, “A merchant would merit greatly if he sold one—and you must keep in mind that a man will do what he must to survive in this world.”

Roxas clamped his mouth shut and registered the answer into his mind. It wasn’t as though he could truly utter a complaint. After all, he ate luxurious meals day and night, and that required the deaths of many animals. After a pregnant pause, the prince heaved a sigh, completely defeated. “I suppose, in a sense, we are no better…”

The Carbuncle yipped and licked the back of Roxas’ hand, shattering his thoughts and making him look down.

“You poor dear…” the prince cooed sympathetically, comforting the Carbuncle with gentle strokes. His warm smile returned when the creature nuzzled into his hand. “It pleases me to know that you are safe in this kingdom. Now don’t ever leave …because your children will need you.”

As if on cue, a family of young Carbuncles poked their heads out from the grass and sniffed wildly for their mother. Roxas gasped and tried to mentally keep count of them all, but it proved to be difficult, seeing how they were all scattered across the vast field.

The mother Carbuncle waved its tail teasingly like a child’s toy and beckoned its children over. They recognized the swaying wisps of their mother’s fluffy tail and quickly lunged forward, each and every one of them yipping adoringly as though she was the most important creature in the entire world.

Roxas suppressed the heavy urge to squeal, finding the scene completely endearing. Axel nearly broke into laughter, amused by the reaction he saw. He wrapped his arms around Roxas’ waist and leaned his chin on the boy’s shoulder just to have a good view of the scene. In all honesty, it seemed so surreal—or even something from one of the harlequin novels Axel had read a while ago. A couple deeply in love sat on a lush field filled with magic. The scenery was gorgeous beyond words and small animals surrounded them.

Without hesitating, the babies climbed onto Roxas’ lap and launched themselves at their loving mother, squealing joyously.

“Oh, my!” Soft laughter fell from Roxas’ thin lips as the Carbuncles’ toes and fur tickled his legs.

Upon hearing the prince’s voice, the young ones quieted themselves, cocking their heads to the side, ears twitching. They sniffed the prince out of curiosity and the mother yipped lowly as though she was scolding her young for being so terribly rude. Both Axel and Roxas froze and observed the scene in utter silence, wondering about the children’s thoughts on humans.

The tension broke when one of the babies spotted an unusually bright firefly hovering beside Axel’s head. It climbed up Roxas’ arm, making his body jump, and then disappeared into Axel’s lock of hair. “B-be careful now!” Alarmed, the servant raised his arms and tried to locate the child swimming playfully through his hair. The Carbuncle was tiny and agile. It constantly evaded Axel’s active hands and continued to sniff out the glowing insect it had lost sight of.

“Allow me, my love,” Roxas offered with an amused chuckle, twisting his body ever so slightly. Fingers gently weaved through the sea of red hair and Axel could do nothing but keep his body still. The prince successfully scooped out the wiggling Carbuncle and the others yipped excitedly, wondering what sort of adventure their brother had. “Oh, Axel, they are such lovely creatures…!”

“Not as lovely as the one in my arms,” the servant replied with a charming wink.

Roxas turned his head, smiling amusedly at the compliment. “I’m a creature now?”

Axel chuckled, tightening his arms around his master. “Perhaps,” he answered with a sing-song tone.

The prince leaned into his servant’s warmth and relaxed as he watched some of the Carbuncles wrestle playfully on the grass. Some circled around his and Axel’s body and chased one another in a game of tag until they became dizzy and toppled over. A chortle managed to slip past Axel’s lips and Roxas, finding the man’s laughter somewhat contagious, chuckled at the amusing sight as well.

When all seemed peaceful and perfect, the town bells chimed repeatedly, reminding Roxas that it was time to return to the castle. “I feel as though I am being summoned at this very moment,” he stated with a calm voice, eyes narrowing. He then released a long, dreary sigh. “The ceremony is nearing its end. But I must confess that I enjoyed our day together quite thoroughly. Thank you for being with me, Axel.” He paused to appreciate the lights dancing elegantly around him, a serene expression attached to his features. “And of course, I-I must thank you for the stunning firefly display in our garden. Such a fantastical sight nearly rendered me breathless.” The image of him and Axel dancing together in a field of fireflies never fled his mind, but he decided that perhaps next time they could do it. It was something Roxas could look forward to.

“It was a great pleasure for me to draw a beautiful smile onto your face.” The servant buried his left cheek into Roxas’ unruly hair and inhaled softly, loving the unique but wonderful scent that belonged to his one and only prince. “I wanted nothing more than to be with you again—to hold you and kiss you, and my wish was granted at a small price. I cannot wait to be with you again, my love.” Axel gave Roxas’ hand a supportive squeeze and then released it.

With great care, Roxas removed the pleasant little creatures from his lap and placed them on a large patch of grass. They tilted their heads to the side and purred softly, a glint of sadness visible in each of their beady eyes. “I shall return another day with fresh berries. Will you come again?” the prince asked sweetly, bringing his head forward to meet eyes with the family. They inched forward, not too cautiously, and pecked or licked his cheeks. The tingling sensation rushed through his face like water in a river and he laughed, blushing. “It is a promise then.”

The family of Carbuncles disappeared into the ground, granting Axel and Roxas one last romantic moment together in the field, alone. “Oh, how I wish I could bring one back to the castle with me!” Roxas said in awe, placing his hand over his thumping chest.

“Now, now, you mustn’t separate them. They are a small family, and possibly the only one in this town,” Axel reasoned with a small chuckle. He leaned forward, wrapped his arms around the prince, and nuzzled into the boy’s neck. “I wish I could take you.”

Laughing softly, the prince leaned back against Axel’s welcoming chest for a second time, relishing the warmth, never wanting it to disappear. “We share the same desires.” Smiling dazedly, he breathed out a subtle sigh and watched as the fireflies surrounded them. They danced with one another, swirled around Axel and Roxas’ bodies, and then soared high into the air, reaching for the stars.

Still wanting to touch a firefly, the young prince brought a finger forward, cautiously inching towards a tiny crowd of them. When they sensed him, they immediately scattered, fearing what the finger might do to them. “Oh…How in the world were you able to capture so many for me, Axel?”

The sound of Axel’s laughter then echoed in the air. “My silly Roxas, you must capture them with your hands, not with your fingers!”

The prince stretched an arm forward, hand unclenched, and then he tried to grasp one rather forcefully by curling his fingers inwards at a quick pace to form a fist. Fearing that large, uninviting hand, the fireflies dashed away to save themselves from being instantly crushed.

“Good lord, Roxas, you will kill them if you do that.” Axel took Roxas’ hands with his own and slowly guided them towards a small swarm of fireflies. “You must reveal your palms to the sky first and then slowly close them so you may capture the fireflies without inflicting any injuries.”

The prince blushed profusely, embarrassed by the fact that he nearly squashed the defenceless insects. A lopsided smile still played over his lips though. The feeling of Axel’s warm hands guiding his own sent tingles of joy throughout his entire being.

Axel’s fingers gently tilted Roxas’ hands in opposite directions until both his palms were glowing orangey-red. The fireflies hovered over them as though they were offering the prince one final chance.

Roxas captured three fireflies in his hands and beamed as he glanced inside. “This is quite a fantastical sight!” he whispered softly, peeking through the gaps between his fingers. Not wanting to hog the fireflies all to himself, the prince selflessly twisted around on his heels and offered Axel a chance to take a peek.

The town bell warned Roxas with another hollow chime, making him flinch violently. Such an obnoxious sound certainly eradicated the romantic ambience that sat between the prince and his servant. The couple heaved a dreary sigh and surrendered, though they did so reluctantly. “I suppose we should return to our homes now. Time is running short and it is necessary for you to return to the castle. Otherwise they will discover us together and I may never see you again,” Axel supposed, pouting like a heartbroken pup that was abandoned by its master.

Roxas frowned, stretched his arms into the air and set the fireflies free from his cupped hands. “I know I must bear with this painful departure…” The prince collected the Moogle plush into his arms and rose from the ground, allowing the loose bits of grass to flutter away. Axel stood, whirled his prince around and carefully enveloped the boy in his arms. He then pressed their foreheads and noses together for an Eskimo kiss. Their lips were only inches apart.

“As you said, we must be strong,” Roxas whispered, breath tickling Axel’s skin. “I promise we will reunite one day, and it will be wonderful.” Smiling warmly, the prince brushed his slender fingers through Axel’s soft hair. “You should rejoice for the time being. After all, you and I will gaze upon the stars tonight!”

“One last romantic moment together,” Axel decided, nodding his head.

They leaned forward and pressed their lips together for a slow, passionate kiss, sending delightful shivers down their spines. Axel applied pressure to his fingers, digging them gently into his prince’s back so he could push the boy forward and close the gap between their bodies completely. Their moans, so soft and almost inaudible, danced in their air along with the fireflies.

“Mm…dearest, I must take my leave,” Roxas murmured against his servant’s soft lips, eyes half-lidded and clouded with a combination of desire and satisfaction. The delicious kiss only made him want more of Axel…so much more.

Before Axel could respond, the prince captured his lips for a chaste kiss, unable to control his desire. A bright pink blush quickly bloomed on Roxas’ cheeks as he retreated.

“I-I understand,” Axel agreed with a hushed voice. Slowly and reluctantly, the servant allowed Roxas’ body to slip away from his arms. They exchanged glances and mentally took note that their faces were very red—flushed from the heated kiss.

“Return to your dwelling for now, Axel,” Roxas demanded, trying his hardest to break the strange tension polluting the air. “I shall find you there.” Twisting around on his heels, Roxas began to journey back to the castle where all of the honoured guests were waiting patiently for his appearance. The ceremony wouldn’t end without him and Naminé present in the audience chamber, after all. Olette hadn’t properly offered her blessings yet.

Axel hastily snatched the prince’s arm and tugged him back, eliciting a small gasp. “Shall I escort you to the castle?”

“Oh, t-that will not be necessary, my love. I am capable of returning on my own,” Roxas assured calmly as he tucked the Moogle doll under his shoulder. He then reached forward and cupped Axel’s hand with both of his own. “I…I mustn’t trouble him tonight…” It seemed too unfair to drag the Axel back to the castle, because the man wasn’t even invited to the lovely ceremony. He would have been left alone in the dark, and Roxas did not want that. “Perhaps Axel could rest until we meet again.”

“Please wait at home. I promise I shall return and we can be together again.” The prince planted gentle kisses on each of Axel’s fingers and smiled warmly. “You are no longer obligated to escort me, my love. And most importantly, no one must catch sight of you…especially Larxene or Naminé.”

“A-as you wish…” The servant then paused, feeling a strange churning sensation in his stomach. It wasn’t a pleasant feeing in the very least.“I…I am no longer obligated? D-does he mean to say that I am no longer his…”

Axel shook his head, attempting to eradicate such a painful idea from his mind. But it would not fade so easily. “Might I inconvenience you with a quick enquiry?” he asked, hesitantly. There was only one way to discover the truth.

“But of course, my love, but you needn’t consider it an inconvenience.” Roxas gently replied, standing still in his spot.

“I…I wish to know…” Anxiety embraced Axel’s thoughts and robbed the words from his throat, rendering him speechless. “May I still be your servant…? Even after I flee?” It seemed like such a simple yet difficult question to ask.

In all honesty, the troubled redhead wanted to remain Roxas’ servant for an eternity, but his fear of receiving a negative answer forced him to remain silent. “How might I ask such a selfish question? What if he needs me no more?” Just taking a quick glance at Roxas made Axel realize how mature the boy was—how independent and noble he’d become over the past three months. “My beautiful and innocent prince…becoming so much more…without me.”

“Axel? What ails you, my dearest?” With worry drowning in his eyes, Roxas stepped forward, grass crunching quietly under his feet. An arm looped around Axel’s body as the boy graced him with a comforting hug. “Tell me,” he whispered. “I wish to make the pain disappear.”

The servant shook off his negative thoughts and feigned a smile to wipe away the prince’s frown. “Never you mind. It was a silly enquiry.” He planted a chaste kiss on Roxas’ forehead and patted the boy’s shoulder with both hands, trying to appear optimistic. “Now make haste! I shall be waiting for you.”

“V-very well. If you still wish to ask your question when we reunite, then please do not hesitate.” And with that the prince hurriedly disappeared from Axel’s sight, leaving him alone in the dimly lit field.

Even with the beautiful fireflies fluttering gracefully around his body, Axel couldn’t conjure even a simple smile. A piece of his heart had been torn away, leaving this strange empty feeling inside. “Being banished from this kingdom means I am no longer needed…?”

Roxas didn’t need Axel to escort him back to the castle, even with unpredictable night surrounding them. He turned away, sighed dejectedly, and kicked a few stones on the ground, wishing he had the courage to ask his question earlier. Perhaps he was overreacting… Perhaps Roxas’ silly words shouldn’t have stung Axel’s heart the way they did…But why did it feel as though a dagger had pierced through his chest?

“When I am gone from this kingdom…will you still accept me as your servant?” Still, Axel desperately yearned for an answer to that question. That thought could never leave his mind. He adored the idea of being Roxas’ lover, but he still wanted to remain a loyal servant. When he was a young lad, it had been his life ambition to serve the prince, after all. “I wish to be your loyal servant for an eternity, Roxas…”

Sadly, he couldn’t muster up the courage to even whisper those words. “Perhaps…I may ask him another day. It isn’t as though I will never see him again!” he thought more optimistically as he swooped down to collect all of his belongings. “I must concentrate on keeping my dearest Roxas content for the night.” He exhaled softly, releasing all of his negative energy, and smiled at the beautiful stars. He reached a hand towards the sky and gazed at the faux ring, remembering how beautiful his and Roxas’ vows were. “Our day was perfect…and I must end the night magnificently as well!”

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

The joyous celebration distracted nearly every aristocrat and guard, allowing the prince to sneak back into the castle without being noticed. Racing back to the castle from the bazaar practically wore out his lungs. Sweat trickled along the side of his head and heavy breaths constantly poured from his lips as he pressed his back against the cool walls of the castle.

His bedchamber, untouched by the maids and servants, welcomed him with a cool breeze. The opened window allowed the air to slip in and brush up against the curtains and sheets hanging from the top of Roxas’ bed, making them flutter quite elegantly. He took a moment to catch his breath before seeking out his ceremonial garments, which were lying messily on the floor next to his changing curtain. He deposited the Moogle doll into the hidden box under the window seat and rushed back to his garments. After hastily scooping everything into his arms, he dressed himself and adjusted every wrinkle, perfecting his appearance for the sake of Naminé’s happiness. The four-framed mirror reflected his image and he sighed, wishing he could simply wear comfortable peasant garments. Formal attire was always so tight…

Roxas carefully folded his favourite blouse and breeches and hid them so no one would be able to see or touch them. “Axel will see these tonight,” he promised himself with a sanguine smile.

The prince slipped out from his bedchamber, locked the door, and traced back to the ballroom where the sound of lively music and laughter mixed together and filled the air.

Nobles exchanged pleasantries as he casually strode towards the main hallway. Roxas wore a mask of contentedness over his face to please his guests, but the rhythm of his heartbeat was different than usual…almost painful. Perhaps it was due to the fear and sadness overwhelming him. After all, Axel was going to disappear for a long while…It was only natural for him to feel even a tad miserable. Only a few more hours remained.

For the time being, he was forced to pocket the faux ring to avoid unnecessary interrogations from others, but he still wore the representational ribbon around his wrist under the frilled cuff so the aristocrats could never catch sight of it.

“It has been quite an eventful day, has it not?” Sora approached the prince from behind and grinned exhaustedly, sweat trickling down the side of his face. His representational ribbon and coat were tilted and his puffed sleeves were wrinkled by countless women who practically clawed at his arms when they wanted to dance.

Smiling appreciatively, Roxas dipped into one of his pockets and fished out a clean handkerchief. “Nobles of Sephreya must adore you. The amount of perspiration emitting from you is rather astounding…and mildly disturbing.”

Sora exhaled deeply as he wiped away the sweat on his face. “When the prince is ill in his chamber, replacements are summoned, and for me to dance an entire day with women from two different kingdoms…well, I must admit it isn’t a simple or desirable task.”

“Ah, my experience during every ceremony…” Roxas rubbed his chin and recalled several memories of him dancing endlessly with guests from around the world.

“Enough about our pitiful experiences with the desperate women! Do describe your day,” Sora whispered shrilly, like a gossiping maid or servant. He latched onto his cousin’s shoulders and leaned inwards, hoping to catch every description of Roxas’ little date.

The prince scanned the surrounding area for aristocrats or maids and dragged Sora to the side so no one could eavesdrop. They hid behind a statue of a famed knight riding his Chocobo and ducked behind the cape. With haste, the prince dove into his pocket and pulled out his treasured ring.

Before he could even begin to describe the significance of his new favourite ring, Sora gasped sharply and clamped his fingers around Roxas’ wrist, tugging the boy closer. “Good lord, you married him without my consent!” he concluded breathlessly, eyes dilated from sheer disbelief.

With a scoff, the prince yanked his hand free and caressed the faux emerald with a finger. “He did not ask for my hand in marriage! And even if he had, why would I require your consent?” Roxas wondered with a demanding tone equipped to his voice.

Feigning hurt, Sora slapped a hand over his chest and staggered backwards until he reached the wall. Roxas rolled his eyes and chuckled, finding the scene a little too dramatic. He ambled over to the nearest window and leaned against it, arms crossed over his chest. The ring rested in his right hand, clutched.

“Because I am your dearest cousin and one of the only people who would accept certain decisions you make with a certain someone!” Sora explained, straightening his back, “Besides that, this gem is stunning! One would think it was used for marriage!”

“A faux gem, mind you,” the prince corrected coolly, “He vowed his heart and loyalty to me after I banished him.” Soft lips touched the faux emerald before Roxas dropped it back into the dim pocket of his cloak. A twinkle of regret flickered in his eyes, for the ring was a trinket he wanted to wear around his finger all the time. It was too special to keep hidden in the dark.

“That sounds rather cruel, even if it is true…” the brunet murmured under his breath.

When a long and dreary sigh fell from Roxas’ lips, Sora felt guilt weigh on his shoulders. He dismissed the idea of cruelty towards Axel and grinned excitedly, trying to brighten the gloomy atmosphere. “B-but it is utterly romantic nonetheless! Oh, my dearest cousin, you are very fortunate to have someone as dedicated as Axel! Women would die of envy if they knew.”

Pressing the side of his head against the window, the prince smiled sadly and gazed upon the dimly lit town. “Oh Sora, I wish I could be in his arms at this very moment. Being back at the castle brings me nothing but agony,” Roxas said dejectedly.

“Soon, my dear cousin,” the brunet promised, ruffling the prince’s hair. “Riku and I shall escort you tonight—”

“Escort my dear fiancé? To where might I ask?”

Both Sora and Roxas nearly leapt out of their skin when Naminé suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Arching an eyebrow, the future queen folded her arms over her chest and tapped her glass slipper against the floor. “Are you kidnapping my Roxas during an important ceremony?” she inquired derisively, piercing the boys with a deadly glare.

Sora waved his hands rapidly in front of his chest. “N-no, I simply meant that Riku and I would es-escort him to his chamber, where he may later retire. The princess claimed that he was ill earlier. Therefore it would be safer if we guided him back to his room.”

“Ah, you are such a loyal cousin.” Grinning cheerily, the future queen snagged Roxas’ arm and hugged it so tightly against her chest that she was cutting off proper blood flow. Sora and Roxas exchanged awkward glances, both of them stunned at the sudden change in Naminé’s personality. “Oh my prince, it was such a lovely celebration. The attention I received left me delirious for several hours!”

Roxas bit back a harsh remark and allowed her to squeeze his arm until it became numb from the lack of proper blood flow. “I-I’m pleased to hear that.”

Naminé frowned upon hearing the strain in her fiancé’s voice, but was oblivious to the fact that she was the cause of it. “Are you still not well?”

Ignoring the sweat sliding along his cheek, Roxas breathed out slowly and shook his head. “I simply left my chamber so I could bid farewell to the princess.” He mentally cursed Naminé’s strength and wondered if his arm was going to be torn off. Perhaps it was punishment for deceiving her on such a special occasion…

“That is quite noble of you to do so,” Naminé chimed, smiling brightly, “Come now, we mustn’t make everyone wait.”

“Of course, my love,” Roxas agreed with a half-hearted chuckle.

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

The ending ceremony was filled with cheers and laughter. Everyone openly congratulated the prince for his success thus far by cheering and clapping their hands together repeatedly. Roxas was young, handsome, blessed with a brilliant mind, and was already deemed worthy of being their future king.

Olette, as she had promised earlier, offered her blessings and best wishes to the betrothed couple.

Naminé smiled graciously and held out her chest proudly as words of praise slipped into her ears like a sweet melody. Her heart thundered wildly against her ribcage as she wrapped her slender fingers neatly around Roxas’ hand. For once, she didn’t sense even an ounce of hesitation from her beloved fiancé. To her, it seemed as though Roxas had finally accepted her affectionate gestures. “The spell placed upon Roxas by that wretched servant has finally been broken! Only I will have Roxas’ heart now!” And so, she imagined herself frolicking across a lush field in her mind in celebration of her success.

With the lack of blood flow in that particular hand, however, Roxas hadn’t much energy to act on his hesitation. In all honesty, he wanted to yank his hand free from her grasp.

“Lord Roxas, you and your beloved are inseparable in the eyes of those who are near. I am confident that you will deny anyone who dares to come between you two,” Olette declared with a confident smile creasing her dashing features. She stood at the front of the ballroom where the most vibrant candles were lit, and stretched her arms towards the audience. Her voice was strong, matching the confident expression she held so proudly on her face. It was very fitting for a future queen.

Roxas gazed at her form with a warm, appreciative smile sliding over his lips. “She speaks of Axel and myself…” It wasn’t Naminé she was praising. It was simply Axel and Roxas.

“Overcome all obstacles with your beloved by your side and smile proudly at your people.” Olette gestured a hand towards some nobles and then some servants and maids standing by the doors. “Believe in your people and never waver. This kingdom, from what I have seen all my life, has shown their utmost support towards you! May your future be as bright as the golden sun on a spring day!”

Thunderous claps of joy echoed throughout the main floor as the aristocrats cheered for Roxas and Naminé. The ladies squealed and waved wildly in Roxas’ direction, wishing they could lay a single finger on him or even press their lips against the back of his smooth hand.

Feeling flattered by the surprising amount of attention he was receiving, the young prince smiled coyly and returned the gesture. The tones of the aristocrats’ voices went up two octaves as excitement brimmed within them. “Prince Roxas!” some screamed, stretching an arm towards him.

“Your kindness will always bring us joy!” another one shouted at the top of her lungs, forcing the closed windows to tremble.

Despite the deafening volumes of their shouts, the young prince felt quite happy with everyone’s support. “I was never able to express my happiness to those who greeted me so kindly in the castle. The maids…the servants…Axel…” he thought with a soft sigh.

“My prince, I pray you will tend to the needs of all peasants and nobles when you are crowned king!” The fact that some of the nobles showed concern towards the commoners made Roxas feel at ease, for they were nothing like his heartless father.

“I suppose the future will be as bright as I make it…” The prince closed his eyes and vowed to bring prosperity to his kingdom—to the peasants and to the nobles. He wanted Axel to be proud.

“A prince loyal to his duties will make a respectable king one day.”

Recalling Axel’s kind words in the back of his mind, Roxas blushed and placed a hand over his pounding chest. “They all…believe in me, Axel. I haven’t done much to gain their respect, but I feel as though…I cannot fail them.”

“This ceremony is nearing its end. Riku and I shall meet you in the garden tonight,” Sora whispered, as everyone continued to cheer. He was fortunate that Naminé was too busy drinking up all of the compliments every aristocrat threw at her. Otherwise she would have suspected him.

Roxas’ blissful bubble popped and he nodded as a look of determination washed over his features. “Yes, I mustn’t keep him waiting.”

Princess Olette had promised to meet him in his bedchamber after the ceremony to discuss Axel’s escape plan for the following morning. The prince turned to his fiancée and pecked her cheeks, eliciting louder squeals from the crowd. “Dearest, I am feeling weary again. I must retire for the evening, but please send my regards to all of our guests.”

Naminé pouted cutely and dropped a chaste kiss on Roxas’ lips, not caring about whether or not the prince was plagued with a cold or fever. “Be well then,” she whispered, a charming smile present on her face.

Baffled by Naminé’s kindness, Roxas gaped at her, speechless. She seemed different—confident about her relationship with the prince. It was as though she had suddenly been reborn.

“I bid you good night then, my love,” Naminé added graciously, dipping her head slightly for a bow.

“Y-yes…rest well.” Roxas brought his fiancée’s hand up and kissed the back of it before he disappeared into another room. “What could have changed her?” he wondered, rubbing his chin with a finger and thumb. Kindness and generosity were not natural traits of Naminé’s, so something miraculous must have happened. For the time being, he shrugged the thought off, knowing that there were more important things to worry about.

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

Pondering his next course of action, Roxas sat curled in a ball on his favourite window seat with the side of his head pressed against the cool sill. He pushed his fingers against the glass further away, leaving smudge marks for the maids to clean later, and created a bigger gap so more wind could flow into his bedchamber. The gentle breeze brushed through his garments and produced small rustling sounds.

“There are so many stars tonight…” The sky looked as magnificent as it did on the night of his birthday…when Axel first became his servant. Hundreds of twinkling lights soared across the sky, stretching towards the other kingdoms. The prince closed his eyes and breathed out a deep sigh as he recalled how delighted he was when Axel first brought him to the observation tower.

“Please make haste, princess. I haven’t much time with my beloved…I wish to observe this gorgeous sight with him…” The prince dipped into his pocket and wrapped his fingers around the ring, then pulled it out. The moon poured its heavenly glow onto the faux gem, and the prince sighed, clutching onto the ring tightly as though he was afraid the wind was going to carry it away.

A quiet drumming sound came from the bedroom door, and the prince quickly deposited the ring back into his pocket, then bolted off his seat, straightening the wrinkles in his garments. “Might I help you?”

The door handle produced a small clicking sound before the bottom of an elongated ball gown peeked into the bedchamber. A slipper was then revealed as the young woman took another step forward, inching slowly into the prince’s room.

Roxas’ swallowed the thick lump that was lodged in his throat as he silently prayed to the stars for the visitor to be Olette instead of Naminé. Sweat trickled down the side of his cheek as every moment slowed. It was as though time itself was beginning to stop. But everything returned to normal when the young lady replied with a gentle hushed voice. “My lord, I beg your forgiveness for my late arrival.”

Relieved, the young prince breathed out a shaky sigh and rested a hand over his chest to discover that his heartbeat was returning to normal. While Roxas preferred being addressed by his name, he was pleased that Olette hadn’t fully adjusted to the informalities yet. “I truly believed you were Naminé for a moment…”

The princess shuffled forward and heedlessly dragged the end of her gown across the carpeted floors. “I suppose I mustn’t keep you from your beloved. I will hold you shortly,” she promised, flashing the prince a warm smile, right before she curtsied gracefully.

“I thank you for your generosity. Surely there is a way I can repay you,” Roxas earnestly insisted, wishing he could do something to express his gratitude towards the kind princess. He lifted her gloved hand and planted a gentle kiss on the knuckles.

“A princess never demands anything but loyalty from her people. And I certainly would not dream of enslaving your conscience,” the princess informed with a short giggle. “I need nothing in return for this favour.” Amusement was written all over her face, but she made little effort to conceal it, even when the prince gave her a questioning look. “Oh, Roxas, you mustn’t be so tense when you are in my presence. We are dear friends after all.”

Feeling somewhat uncomfortable with the fact that he was receiving help from someone who wanted nothing in return, Roxas cleared his dry throat with a cough and nodded slowly. “I-I—”

“As long as you and Sir Axel are truly in love with one another, I will always try my hardest to assist you,” she promised, and then pumped her fist like a man would. Roxas chortled at her unladylike gesture and tried to conceal his smile by covering his mouth with a hand. “Oh, come now, forbidden love is absolutely enthralling!”

The prince suppressed his laughter and gave her a curious look. “Might I ask why you refer to my servant as Sir Axel? He isn’t a knight.” Though in Roxas’ imagination, Axel looked handsome standing under the brilliance of the sun in clean white armour. Even with a slim figure, Axel looked gallant, pointing a broad sword towards the azure sky. “Perhaps Sir Axel isn’t such a peculiar name after all…” he thought with a dreamy sigh.

“Oh, he certainly seems to be very knightly,” Olette replied matter-of-factly. “After all, he freed you from your bedchamber. Princesses and prisoners in the fairytales are always rescued and granted freedom by their gallant knights, so I truly believe Axel deserves such a title!”

“I…I suppose you are correct.” Heat crawled into the prince’s cheeks and he fidgeted nervously, unable to deny the fact that he could relate to any damsel in distress. How embarrassing… “Even for a lovely servant, he has some knightly qualities. A-Axel is a very devoted man…”

“Which is why you mustn’t keep him waiting!” Olette pointed out sharply, batting an eyelash for a quick wink. “Now, you must inform him of my departure time, which is approximately two hours after the sun rises. I will have my special carriage stop by his dwelling.”

“Will you be there?” Roxas wondered anxiously, cupping his hands in front of his chest.

“But of course! I truly wish to meet the man who melted the ice that had encased your heart for many years.” Olette waved a hand towards her face to fan the heat climbing up her cheeks. Excitement rushed through her veins and her sparkling green eyes, filled with anticipation, made it evident that she wanted Roxas to reunite with his beloved.

“Will your escorts catch sight of him though? It is necessary that he is concealed behind—”

An index finger found its way to Roxas’ lips, silencing him completely. The princess hushed him softly and smiled, amused by Roxas’ paranoia. “You needn’t worry, my lord. I trust them very much. No one else will catch sight of your dearest Axel except us. Now off you go; change into those elegant garments and amaze your beloved! Gaze upon the beautiful stars sparkling in the sky! Riku and Sora are eagerly awaiting your arrival in the castle garden! Make haste!”

Grinning excitedly, Roxas lunged forward and embraced Olette. A huge weight had been lifted off his shoulders and his worries about Axel being captured had been obliterated. The princess was far too kind; her words were sweet like honey and her heart must have been made of pure gold. Sephreya was a very fortunate kingdom.

“Oh, I can never thank you enough for such a favour!” Roxas hastily planted a wet kiss on her cheek and vanished behind his changing curtain where garments were littered all over the carpeted floors—all but his cherished peasant outfit. He rushed out from his curtains with a bright blush staining his cheeks and found his peasant garments in one of his dressers. Then he disappeared behind the shutters once again.

“I pray you both have a magnificent evening together,” Olette whispered with a cheery smile, knotting her fingers together behind her back.

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

While waiting for his beloved master to return from the castle, Axel gazed up at the star-blanketed sky in awe, admiring the rare phantasmagorical sight of a sparkling shower that only appeared once every season. Stars of various sizes soared across the sky, leaving thin trails of glittering beauty behind in their wake.

“Are stars born from those trails?”

Hearing a gentle, heavenly voice from his doorway, Axel turned his head and smiled in relief, latching his eyes onto the beautiful figure. “I wonder…” he replied, almost absentmindedly.

“I…I have returned.” Roxas whispered words with a soft voice and presented his servant a tender smile. “Forgive me for making you wait for such a long period of time.”

“You needn’t sound so apologetic, Roxas. I understand why you were delayed.” The servant held his heart warming smile and beckoned his prince over to the bed. “Now, come hither, my love,” he said, patting a cozy spot on the mattress with a hand. “The stars are very lively tonight.”

Roxas took a step forward and allowed the moon to bathe him with its radiant glow, skin paling under the white light. Then he stopped, making it seem as though his feet had suddenly been rooted to the floor by some unknown force. “I will join you shortly, but…I wish to reveal something to you first…” Swallowing thickly, the prince brought his trembling fingers to the tight knot of his swaying cloak. Axel shifted in bed and offered the boy his undivided attention, hands resting on his lap. Curiosity danced in his emerald eyes.

The prince slowly, nervously removed his cloak and presented himself to Axel, revealing the striking peasant garments that embraced his body. They were snug, unlike the atrociously tight attire he wore at the castle every day.

Although the night sky changed the shade of the sapphire blue garment, the designs still appeared stunning on Roxas. Tiny transparent jewels were embedded in the frilled collar of the prince’s blouse and at the ends of the puffy cerulean sleeves. The gems were fake, but Roxas still adored them because they added a nice touch to the beautiful garment. Detailed patterns in white decorated the hem of blouse as well, mixing perfectly with the deep blue.

Axel stared in complete awe for countless minutes, words never leaving his slightly parted lips. The stars continued to soar across the sky but the servant paid no attention to them, for he was too mesmerized by the gorgeous, timorous angel standing before him. Axel took his sweet time to engrave the image into his mind.

Eventually the prince became overwhelmed by the torturous silence that lingered in the air. He bunched his fingers into his cloak and breathed out an inaudible sigh, wondering if there was something wrong. “S-surely you have something to say about my-my a-appearance.” He whirled around on his heels and gazed at the door, unable to make eye contact with Axel, fearing the man’s response. A sweet touch of pink tainted his pale cheeks when he thought Axel disliked his new look. “Do peasant garments look horrible on me? Why must he hold his tongue…?”

Quiet shuffling sounds between the blankets were made when Axel rose from the bed. He wrapped his arms around his master’s frame from behind and nuzzled into the boy’s feathery hair, delighting in its softness and unique scent. “How could I utter words when someone so handsome left me breathless?” Axel released a long sigh, as though he’d actually been holding his breath in the entire time. “You are so very beautiful tonight. Oh, I pray the moon never vanishes so I may gaze upon your splendour for an eternity.”

The prince’s heart went absolutely wild when Axel’s sweet words tickled his ears. Excitement and bliss bubbled inside of him, drawing a goofy smile onto his face. “Honestly? You speak the truth?” he asked, almost eagerly.

A warm expression remained on Axel’s face as he plucked a white tulip from the vase on his dresser. He lifted the prince’s arm and twirled him around like one would in a formal dance, and then presented the boy with the floral beauty. Like the tulip, Roxas was pure and beautiful in Axel’s eyes. “If I ever spout a despicable lie to you, then banish me from your castle forever.” The servant trailed the delicate snow-white petals of the tulip along the prince’s cheek, earning a light blush from the boy. “My sweet Roxas, you were blessed with such ravishing features. It is only appropriate for your people to be rendered speechless.”

With a lopsided smile attached to his features now, Roxas accepted the flower and twirled the frail stem between his fingers. “Even now you still flatter me with words…”

Before Axel could conjure a response, Roxas hastily elevated his heels and connected their lips together for a sweet, but chaste kiss, leaving the man breathless for about ten seconds. When Axel leaned in for another kiss, the prince planted a finger over his lips and chuckled. “We must gaze upon the stars, yes?” he asked with a teasing tone equipped to his voice.

“Oh?” Axel tilted his side as a look of amusement swept over his features. “Your vibrant blush is lovely, though. And your striking new garments make you all the more mesmerizing,” the servant confessed, attempting to shower his prince with compliments of all sorts. “Is it truly necessary to tear my eyes away?”

Lacking the ability to respond to such a flattering remark, Roxas nibbled on his lip and shuffled over to the bed. “O-of course it is necessary! S-surely the stars are much more lovely than my-my reddened face—o-or garments!” A bright flush of pink remained present on his cheeks when he plopped onto the cushiony mattress. He tried his best to avert Axel’s gaze, knowing the man would tease him for being so…

“Bashful are we? Swoon to my compliments, my love!” Axel crept up from behind and tackle-hugged his master onto the mattress, eliciting a loud squeak from the boy. They laughed and wrestled playfully over the bed, wrinkling the sheets and misplacing the pillows.

In an attempt to spare the tulip from harm, the young prince lobbed it towards the nearby desk. After the helpless flower disappeared from plain sight, Axel grinned and used other tactics to wrestle his prince; some of which Roxas considered cheating.

“A-Axel, c-come now!” The prince laughed uncontrollably as Axel pressed his fingers against his sides, hitting almost every weak spot with great accuracy. Roxas thrashed about and punched Axel’s shoulders and chest half-heartedly—or as half-heartedly as he could in his state. He even tried slapping the man’s back with a pillow, but that failed horribly as well. “E-enough, my-my-my love!”

“Oh, very well.” Axel clicked his tongue and feigned exasperation as he spared the boy.

The sound of heavy wheezing echoed in the room as the prince fell back onto the mattress, limbs sprawled messily across the sheets. Cool air pouring in from the windows embraced his body and relaxed his muscles for several minutes.

Axel joined Roxas on the mattress and smiled adoringly as he caressed his master’s cheek with the sides of his fingers. He inched closer towards the slender body, closed his eyes, and pressed his lips gently against Roxas’ own, eliciting a breathy sigh from the boy. The kiss was his prize for being victorious.

“I certainly will triumph some day,” the prince murmured firmly against Axel’s lips, right before he dove in for a fervent kiss. They weaved their fingers through the other’s tresses and hummed softly, contentedly, as though it was the most gratifying session they’ve had in a long while.

“Perhaps by luck you will,” the servant whispered, eyes half-lidded and glazed with desire. “But I promise it shan’t be easy.” With a soft chuckle, the man rubbed his nose affectionately against Roxas’ own for an innocent Eskimo kiss. His hands journeyed downwards to rub gentle circles on the boy’s back. “Dearest Roxas, I look forward to the day we fight again. Playfully, of course.”

Smiling dazedly, the prince nodded in agreement and brushed aside a few bangs hanging in front of Axel’s forehead. “As do I, my love. We should enjoy what is left of our time together.” He paused, glancing outside only to see glimmers of light dancing high in the sky. “I believe the stars are still seeking our undivided attention.” The boy raised his index finger and pointed at the astounding scene behind his beloved.

The servant twisted his body around on the bed and beamed at the countless stars racing across the heavens. “Goodness…” he whispered in awe, just as he and Roxas bolted into a sitting position. It seemed as though the stars had multiplied in number, because Axel couldn’t believe his eyes. These lively, shimmering bits of white and silver graced the entire kingdom with their incomparable beauty. It was the longest and brightest star shower he’d ever witnessed, and his heart pounded vigorously with joy. Being able to enjoy this magical moment with Roxas made him the happiest man in the kingdom.

“Such a breathtaking sight,” Roxas remarked, as he carefully entwined his and Axel’s fingers together. The last thing he wanted was to ruin the perfect evening by irritating one of Axel’s fresh injuries, so he made a great attempt to be gentle.

“You needn’t worry, Roxas. I feel no pain when you touch my hands.” A warm smile swept across Axel’s lips as he tightened his fingers around the boy’s own. They leaned against one another for support and delighted in the comforting warmth that emitted from their bodies.

“Shall we make a wish tonight?” Axel wondered aloud, eyes still aimed towards the starlit sky.

“Perhaps a few will satisfy us tonight.” They closed their eyes, tightened their fingers together, and silently wished to their hearts content. Both yearned for a bright future where they could live together, happily ever after, like most fictional heroes and heroines in children’s storybooks. Both wanted to be healthy and safe, no matter how far apart they were. They wanted to remember the vows they made, knowing that neither of them had any qualms about being bound to one another for life. They wished for all of these things, and so much more; selfish and unselfish wishes filled their minds through several minutes of comforting silence.

The servant buried his cheek into Roxas’ unruly hair and exhaled softly, wondering how many wishes were going be granted by the generous stars. “Perhaps Roxas will journey to Sephreya someday and I will be able to hold him in my arms again!” But then he frowned at that thought, realizing he wouldn’t be able to envelop Roxas in his arms for a long while. Being banished from the kingdom had many disadvantages… “I suppose I must be patient,” he figured somewhat dejectedly.

“How many wishes have you made?” the prince wondered with a cute expression plastered to his features.

His sweet voice was the sewing needle that popped Axel’s thought bubble. The man straightened his posture and revealed a silly smile. “Too many for the stars to grant immediately,” he admitted with a hint remorse equipped to his voice. Surely the stars wouldn’t be too pleased knowing he had over twenty wishes swirling in his mind.

Roxas pecked Axel’s cheek and swung his legs over the edge of the bed playfully like a young child. “Did you make any wishes that involved me?” he asked innocently, eyes fluttering.

Axel scrunched his face a little, pretending to think hard about the question, and then nodded, smiling naturally. “But of course,” he chirped, patting a hand over Roxas’ own. “You are always in my thoughts.”

Flattered, the prince smiled adoringly and allowed a blush to paint his cheeks. He elevated his body and trailed his fingers along the back of Axel’s neck, sending delightful shivers down the man’s spine. “You are such a sweet man,” the prince whispered breathlessly, just before he dove in and captured Axel’s lips for a tender kiss. Roxas wanted to further reward the servant for his selfless thoughts, though. He pressed forward and deepened the kiss with the sweet addition of his little tongue until his and Axel’s bodies collapsed onto the mattress.

They only paused for a brief moment to recollect themselves, and then the servant yanked his master down for another fervent kiss. The reward was too wonderful to pass up so soon. Axel looped his arms around Roxas’ slender frame and smiled against the boy’s thin lips. Soft moans of pleasure tore from their throats and began to fill the air.

The kiss was especially sweet and intoxicating for Roxas, because he managed to inhale the delicious scent of vanilla that belonged to his one and only lover. It mixed in perfectly with the scent of tulips wafting in the room. When he drew back from the kiss he smiled, satisfied.

The couple took in deep breaths and licked their moist lips in silence until the prince continued on with his little inquiries. “H-have you made any particular wishes involving both of us?” Roxas murmured against the man’s lips, heart pounding wildly against his ribcage.

Feeling a rapid thudding sensation against his chest, Axel smiled and brushed his fingers through the boy’s hair. “Certainly.” The answer should have been quite obvious.

“May I learn of these wishes?” Roxas asked, feigning innocence.

Clicking his tongue repeatedly, the servant wagged his finger in a scolding, but playful manner. “They are meant to be kept a secret.” He tapped the prince’s nose and retreated from the near-kiss when the boy released a weak chuckle.

“Some are not meant to be kept a secret…” the prince thought, eyes narrowing slightly. Leaning against Axel’s body again, the prince smiled nervously and whispered sweet words into the man’s ear. “May I utter one of my wishes tonight?”

“Oh?” Axel murmured softly, raising an eyebrow. “It may not come true.”

Lacking the ability to make proper eye contact with the prince, Axel could not have known there was a hint of worry visible on the boy’s expression. Roxas’ face practically buried into Axel’s cheek. “But…I want speak from my heart,” the prince confessed. “It is my wish, and…I sincerely believe it will come true.”

The servant nodded, respecting his master’s desires. “Then allow me to hear your wish.”

“It involves you and I.” Roxas mustered up all of his courage and battled every sense of doubt he had to announce his desire. “My wish is for you to undress me, Axel,” he boldly began, trying to keep his voice steady. Over and over again, he prayed for success in his mind. The last thing he needed to experience was rejection from the one he cherished most.

“I-I beg your pardon, my love?” Axel turned his head and gazed at his prince bewilderedly, his eyes a few centimetres wider than usual. For a brief moment, the romantic ambience was shattered by his sudden confusion.

Roxas clarified what he’d meant, hoping the man would be understanding and accepting. “Undress me…and make love to me tonight.” A heavy blush coloured the boy’s pale cheeks and his fingers gripped the woolly sheets below his body. The sound of his racing heart echoed in his ears and made his body tremble. However, despite such strange sensations swirling throughout his body, Roxas truly wanted to physically express his love with Axel for the first time.

“That is quite a bold suggestion, my love. F-forgive me if I may seem rude, but do you not find that you are rather…too young at the moment?” In Axel’s eyes, the prince was very special, thus he didn’t want the boy to do anything regrettable.

“Oh, dearest Axel, my mind has matured over the past year. It matters not what my age is as long as I am able to express my love to you. I could be many years older and I would still yearn for your touch.” The prince shifted in his spot and trailed his slender fingers along the smooth skin of Axel’s cheek as he gazed into the man’s brilliant emerald eyes. “Have you never thought about making love to me before?” A look of disappointment suddenly washed over Roxas’ features, tainting his eyes with sadness. “Surely it isn’t too soon for Axel and I to express our love.” In fact, Roxas felt that the time was right, for his precious lover was fleeing the kingdom in mere hours. And the night was simply breathtaking. The atmosphere was absolutely perfect; a starlit sky was present, and the scent of tulips eddied in the small room.

“I h-have thought a-about…about making love to you before. M-many times…” Axel whispered nervously as he scratched the back of his neck. He would have been lying if he said otherwise, but lovemaking was still something…new to him. His father had only taught him so little about how to woo someone…

Still, Axel had some knowledge of how to express his love to someone as special as Roxas…

“W-we only have one more night together in this kingdom. It would be both wonderful and memorable if we spent the night making love f-for our first time,” the prince thought aloud, running a hand nervously through his naturally messy hair. “The act of love is meant to bring happiness to many, after all…” While Axel gave Roxas a look of consideration, the prince rolled off the man’s body and faced the bedroom door, too embarrassed to make any eye contact at this point. “We could lie in bed together in a warm embrace before we are separated…We may share smiles when we realize that I will never be marked by another,” he murmured softly, bunching his fingers into the wrinkled blankets.

Axel couldn’t help but smile at the idea of ending his final night in the kingdom with Roxas snug in his arms. The image in his mind was quite endearing and romantic, and he would have been lying if he said he did not want to claim the prince as his own soon. He didn’t want anyone else to have the boy.

“Just being near you already brings me great happiness, but for me to make love to you tonight…I would surely be in heaven,” Axel admitted with a hushed voice, forcing the prince’s blush to darken. Lanky arms looped around Roxas’ body for a warm embrace. By pressing his chest against the prince’s back, Axel was allowing the boy to feel his rapidly beating heart.

Both were nervous about the idea of lovemaking as it had always been between a man and a woman. Books never told stories about a man claiming a man (let alone a man claiming a lad) in bed because the very idea was sinful to the people of Roxas’ kingdom. All Axel and Roxas had to rely on were instincts…

And surely the combination of desire and instincts was enough.

“Then claim me as your own, my love” the prince murmured softly, guiding Axel’s hands to his thumping chest. “I want to be yours. I promise I will have no regrets, Axel. I love you so very much.”

A warm smile tugged on Axel’s lips as he kissed the back of Roxas’ head. “And I you,” he promised, rubbing small, comforting circles on the boy’s arm. “Please turn around, my love,” Axel requested calmly, keeping his voice steady with the best of his abilities. “I…I wish to see your face.”

With his servant’s assistance, the prince complied, whirling his body around. What was revealed to Axel was a flushed face, so vivid and mesmerizing. Axel felt spellbound just gazing into the deep blue eyes belonging to his beloved prince. He raised a hand and slid it delicately along Roxas’ rosy cheek as he leaned forward, a tender smile present on his features.

Roxas swallowed thickly when the sound of his heartbeat resonated in his ears like a drum being struck recklessly in an orchestra. A combination of thrill and anticipation sent delightful chills down his spine, but that was something he kept a secret, for it was too embarrassing to confess.

He closed his eyes and leaned forward, yearning to taste the honey-sweet lips that belonged to his one and only Axel. “Kiss me now,” he whispered, brushing his thin lips against the man’s own. “I am yours to claim.”

Axel nodded and obeyed, placing his lips perfectly over Roxas’ own. The servant massaged the back of the prince’s neck and tilted his head up just slightly. The kisses they shared were slow and passionate; Axel and Roxas savoured each one, like it was going to be their very last. They reminded themselves just how bloody fortunate they were to have one another.

Axel’s mind could barely comprehend what was happening, for his body moved on its own, desperately yearning to touch the handsome prince. He managed to twist their bodies around on the bed so his body was bridged over Roxas’ own. Axel leaned in closely, deepening their kisses, while eliciting quiet moans of gratification.

The servant tugged on the end of the prince’s representational ribbon and loosened the entire bow, forcing it to collapse in his hand. The prince shuddered at the feeling of a delicate silk ribbon tickling his neck. But what drew a soft gasp out of him was when Axel replaced the discarded ribbon with his moist lips. “Oh…my…!” Roxas moaned softly, weaving his fingers through the man’s hair on impulse. Having never felt Axel kiss him so sensually on the neck before, the prince suddenly felt weak; like his body was melting from this new form of pleasure. There was this strange tingling feeling rippling throughout his entire body repeatedly like the ever flowing waves in the ocean. He felt overwhelmed with the sweet pleasure Axel was bestowing upon him. How could such simple gestures make him feel as though he was drifting into the heavens already? The sensation channelling throughout his entire being felt so new, yet he immediately wanted more. This sudden surge of desire began to control the prince’s movements.

Although he was still nervous, Axel felt somewhat pleased with his success so far, even if it was only the beginning of their lovemaking session. And with that extra bit of confidence, he continued to experiment.

Axel’s nimble fingers caressed parts of Roxas’ chest as they inched towards the neat nodes of his blouse. The boy shuddered as those warm hands explored his lithe body. While coherent thoughts were difficult to form in his head at the moment, Roxas knew his body desperately yearned for more. More skin contact. More heat. More of everything. More of Axel. Roxas loved the feeling of Axel’s breath looming over his bare neck, discovering that each exhale made his breath hitch in anticipation.

Axel peeled off the beautiful peasant blouse completely and lobbed it over to the dainty wooden chair near the bed, leaving the prince’s upper body exposed. The servant’s eyes roamed the boy’s beautiful, unblemished chest, admiring every inch and every smooth crevice. That gorgeous, moon soaked body nearly took away his ability to breathe. He felt a strong urge to touch Roxas’ body—to kiss it and make it his forever. “You claim you’ve been injured by Zephyr in the past, but your body is absolutely breathtaking,” he whispered with a slightly dry mouth. Axel needed to compliment the prince’s body; it would have been a sin if he hadn’t!

Instead of being completely embarrassed by Axel’s wandering eyes and comments, Roxas was flattered that the man adored his body. Having been exposed to Axel during his baths before, Roxas didn’t feel body-shy. Not yet anyway. He felt more pride than shame.

They gazed into each other’s eyes, both sets filled with pure love and anticipation. Their hearts raced like the Chocobos did when they were chasing down criminals at a ceremonial event in town.

Roxas knotted his arms behind Axel’s neck, pulling him down for a fervent kiss, longing to taste those sweet lips again. Quiet hums and moans of pleasure filled the air as they shared many small kisses and explored one another’s chests with roaming fingers. Soon they pressed their bodies together, almost desperately, and eliminated the gap between them completely. In mere minutes the couple deepened their kisses, sliding their tongues against the other’s lips.

Neither of them knew how to make love properly, but everything they did, from kissing to touching, came so naturally. Stripping Roxas of his peasant garments failed to embarrass either of them. Exploring each other’s bodies with busy fingers seemed perfectly normal as well. If their minds hadn’t been clouded with a mixture of pleasure and desire, they would have questioned why they hadn’t made love sooner. The amount of pleasure coursing through their bodies was unbelievable and almost overwhelming.

They broke the kiss to take in deep breaths of air for a few moments. Roxas gazed up affectionately at his beloved and dragged his fingers along his servant’s clothed back, silently wishing he could quickly strip the man. The prince yearned to see Axel’s well toned torso again. But Axel was much quicker than Roxas had expected, for the man had already begun to remove his breeches and undergarments. Those hands of his were so warm and gentle, and unexpectedly stealthy. They slipped beneath the garments and caressed the plump flesh, causing the prince to moan audibly for the first time.

Axel paused abruptly and blushed profusely, feeling as though he’d done something terribly wrong to elicit such a reaction from the prince. “M-my apologies.” Feeling absolutely flustered, he retreated, a look of shame washing over his heated face. “D-did I…”

“No, that was actually q-quite…pleasurable,” Roxas replied breathily, stroking the man’s cheek with warm hands. “Oh, Axel, you mustn’t stop. Everything you’ve done has been absolutely…perfect.” Wanting to continue on with their lovemaking, the prince looped his arms around Axel’s neck and pulled him down for a passionate kiss. Eyes slid shut as Axel used his free hand to caress his master’s face. Their tongues danced slowly inside each other’s mouths as their bodies had begun to instinctively move against the other in a slow sensual rhythm. Both moaned softly, tangling their limbs together, wrinkling the bed sheets.

When Roxas’ body was completely exposed, the servant gasped inaudibly, realizing he wasn’t quite sure what to do next. He’d only learned so little about lovemaking. His father meant to teach him about it at a younger age, but the man was far too busy doing the king’s bidding. Axel attempted to go about on his own, ignoring the pointless thoughts boggling in his mind, and massaged the prince’s behind gently with his hands. Roxas tore his lips from Axel’s own to release a soft gasp, his cheeks tainted with a flush of red. No one had ever touched him in such a manner before, but Roxas felt jolts of pleasure leap through his body from head to toe.

Axel, on the other hand, wasn’t quite sure if he was doing everything correctly. He couldn’t risk injuring the prince, and thus he panicked a little.

Axel paused, panting softly while staring down at his prince whose eyes were practically glowing with desire. “Is something bothering you, my love?” Roxas asked worriedly, his arms still linked behind his servant’s neck.

A small flush of embarrassment tainted Axel’s pale cheeks as he shifted his gaze. “A-a confession…”

Confused and still concerned with his servant’s behaviour the prince elevated the top of his body using his elbows. “Oh…” He felt as though he had done something terribly wrong to disturb Axel, which could have been outright embarrassing for him, mainly because he was the only one in bed without any garments attached to him. “Perhaps I am not in…the correct position at the moment.” Even the prince had little knowledge on the act of lovemaking.

“Roxas I recognize that expression,” Axel whispered softly. He leaned forward and massaged Roxas’ lips with his own for a few moments. The servant took delight in the wonderful sensation journeying down his spine before he faced his fears. When he finally found the will to resist the temptation of kissing his prince, Axel retreated, breathing unevenly. “I…have never made love to anyone before.”

Roxas quirked an eyebrow perplexedly, curious as to why Axel was making it sound like such a bad thing. “Honestly I am delighted that you chose to claim me as your first,” he whispered through his quick breaths. The prince shifted his hand and stroked his servant’s cheeks in a loving manner.

“O-oh, that is not my concern—I could not be happier!” the man whispered nervously, breathlessly. “M-my concern would—w-would be my performance.” Once again the man turned away and blushed, only thinking about failure. His only desire was to please the prince in bed now, but fear overwhelmed him when he considered the idea of doing something incorrectly. “What if I made love to you, but it was wrong?”

Roxas barely took that concern into consideration. Instead, an affectionate smile fell onto the boy’s lips, bringing Axel into confusion. He pulled Axel down for a warm hug and chuckled in a way that eased the man’s worries. “You make it sound as though someone has made love to me already.”

Axel blinked and turned his head, facing his surprisingly joyful prince.

“Perhaps I won’t be doing something correctly, but we…we will not know until we try. Your performance will be as good as mine because…” Roxas reached up and tugged on the neat bows that kept Axel’s shirt together, a blissful smile painted on his lips. “We will allow our instincts to control our actions,” he whispered, allowing a few silk ribbons to slip between his fingers.

A smile filled with appreciation and unconditional love graced Axel’s features. He leaned forward and pressed his lips tenderly against the prince’s forehead, thanking him for his sweet words. “Then you shall be mine tonight,” he whispered adoringly, weaving his fingers through Roxas’ feathery hair. “And I shall be yours.”

For one more night…

“Yes, and I would never dream of asking for anymore than that.” With delicate fingers, Roxas dipped beneath the garments and explored his servant’s unblemished chest, eliciting soft, breathy gasps from the handsome man. He was secretly relieved that the guards hadn’t marked Axel’s chest with cuts and bruises because the man was absolutely ravishing under the moonlight. “Such a breathtaking body…” Roxas pushed forward and pressed his lips passionately against his servant’s own, delighting in the pleasurable sensations that rushed throughout his entire being.

Axel smiled into the delicious kiss as he trailed his fingers along the prince’s smooth and delicate skin. He appreciated every inch and detail of his beloved. Axel gazed at the boy with adoring eyes, touched the warm, soft skin, and tasted those perfect lips. He understood what heaven on earth was. It was simply divine.

They moved against one another at a pace that drew out unfamiliar sounds. “O-oh…Axel…” Roxas moaned softly and instinctively arched his back, having never felt something so unbelievably wonderful before. Throughout his entire life, no one had ever pushed up against his body in such a manner, so the new sensation was rather exhilarating. Still…he knew it could have been much better. “W-wait,” he whispered breathlessly as he gave Axel a gentle push.

For a moment, a mixture of hurt and fear washed over the servant’s features. The last thing he wanted to do was injure Roxas. “Was it…was it my scarred hands?”

“At ease, my love. Your fingers dance deftly over my skin…And I only ever want you to touch me in such a manner,” the prince whispered with a surprisingly silky voice. Slowly, the boy began to remove every article of clothing attached to Axel’s body. If they were going to make love, Roxas didn’t want to be the only one revealing his bare body.

Warmth gathered in the prince’s cheeks as every soft piece of cloth and ribbon slipped from his fingers. Having never stripped anyone down before, Roxas couldn’t help but feel somewhat nervous. He propped himself up with his elbows and pressed his lips against Axel’s slender neck, pleasuring the man in a sinful way. It was Roxas’ way of returning the pleasure that he’d received earlier from his generous lover.

“Roxas…” Axel whispered the prince’s name breathily and shivered at the amazing sensations that danced frivolously beneath his skin. Every article of clothing slowly slid from his body and the prince banished them from the bed by carelessly tossing them off the edge. The only thing that remained on their bodies was a ring.

They stopped moving for what felt like an eternity when only a few minutes had gone by. The prince held onto Axel’s shoulders and admired how toned his arms and chest were. The man’s body was enchanting, glowing beautifully under the moonlight like a being from a fantastical world. And Roxas hated how this handsome man was going to slip away from his grasp within a few hours. “I’m glad you are here with me tonight,” he whispered with a warm smile, tears sliding down his face. Lovemaking was meant to be a joyous occasion but Roxas couldn’t prevent the tear flow. He couldn’t lose someone so precious—he just couldn’t bear it!

“As am I.” Axel smiled and gently kissed the tear drops away, pretending they never existed for Roxas’ sake. “You’re beautiful, Roxas. Lying here…bathing under the glorious moonlight…I truly want to claim you as my own.”

The prince pressed forward and captured Axel’s lips for a passionate kiss, silently thanking the man for his support. The servant wrapped warm arms around Roxas’ slender frame and gently laid him back down so the mattress was hugging his bare body.

“I love you…” The prince whispered sweet words between kisses and trailed his fingers along Axel’s face, caressing his delicate skin. “Don’t ever let me slip from your grasp,” he pleaded softly, brushing his lips against his servant’s own, eyes half-lidded.

“Never.” Axel murmured a promise between tender kisses and raked his fingers through the prince’s feathery tresses. “Come now, you should smile some more. We are about to celebrate our love!” The servant nuzzled into his master’s neck and dropped playful butterfly kisses all around, eliciting a weak chuckle from the boy.

“Yes, you’re right.” Roxas looped his arms around Axel’s body and hugged him closely, pressing their warm bodies together. Axel’s optimistic behaviour brightened the prince’s spirit, and the boy was grateful for it. He opened his mouth to speak but an audible gasp poured out instead.

Axel’s nimble fingers slid along the side of his thigh, and up they went until they hit certain pleasure points on Roxas’ body, drawing out soft moans and occasional whimpers. A wild blush blossomed on the prince's cheeks as he instinctively arched into the touch.

“Was that…pleasurable f-for you?” Axel wondered nervously, upon hearing the new sounds that spilled from Roxas’ lips.

It was strange how Axel delighted in the sounds he elicited from the prince…but he wondered if it was all right to feel the way he did.

“V-very,” the boy admitted coyly, feeling somewhat embarrassed by the question itself. He then released yet another breathy gasp when Axel massaged the most sensitive spots on his body. “O-oh my…!” It was rather strange how heat was gathering in Roxas’ stomach, but the boy honestly welcomed the new sensation. In fact, he craved for more.

When it seemed evident that Roxas was completely satisfied with Axel’s ministrations, the servant chose to memorize every sound that spilled from Roxas’ perfect lips, every expression he made, and every curve on his beautiful body. Axel entwined their fingers together and whispered sweet words to Roxas through his quickened breaths before he kissed the boy's ear.

The prince was delirious with pleasure; his mind was clouded with desire and his hands moved in ways he’d never imagined. His body had become sensitive, so he couldn’t help but writhe or arch his back every time Axel touched him a certain way.

When the servant felt the need to pleasure Roxas some more, he leaned forward, trapping Roxas’ body with his own and then kissed him with gentle, warm lips. Axel began to rub their bodies together at a quick rhythm, which was surprisingly gratifying—much better than the last few attempts, which were slow. And somehow it was much better than using just his hands to pleasure Roxas.

Liking the new feeling, the prince threw his head back into the pillow and dug the pads of his fingers into his servant’s back. The couple moaned audibly, uncontrollably, and whispered each other’s names with great passion. Their bodies became hot and slick with perspiration, but that encouraged them to do more. The heat emitting from their bodies was simply marvellous.

Axel returned to littering kisses along the prince’s neck. None of them were sloppy, but each one still sent delightful shivers down the boy’s back. The servant even ventured lower and dropped butterfly kisses along his masters glistening chest.

Roxas’ breathing soon became erratic as he moved his body in a sensual rhythm against his servant’s own, synchronizing their movements. The feeling was foreign, yet exhilarating, heating his and Axel’s body in unimaginable ways. Nothing could compare to what the couple was currently experiencing at this very moment.

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

Meanwhile in the main room on the first floor, everyone else was sitting comfortably in front of the fireplace reading their novels. Sora’s ears perked up when he heard a strange cry from the second floor. It sounded exactly like his dearest cousin. “W-what is Axel doing to Roxas?” he wondered as he looked up from his book.

Demyx and Zexion were quick to exchange worried glances when they heard the faint moan from above. The musician nearly broke into laughter when he discovered a bright cherry-red blush on his lover’s cheeks. When the scholar nudged him with an elbow, the musician straightened his back and coughed into his fist. “Let us take a romantic stroll around this street, shall we?”

Puzzled by the peculiar suggestion, Sora quirked an eyebrow. “At such a late hour?”

Riku closed his book and set it on the nearest table as he stood up from his chair. “It would be wise if we did as well. Come, Sora, a romantic stroll,” he suggested with a monotonous tone. Sadly there wasn’t much enthusiasm attached to his voice, but he truly didn’t mind taking a romantic stroll with the boy he loved…even if he failed at expressing it properly.

Sora pouted childishly and balled his hands into fists. “You don’t sound very eager to leave…but if that is your—” And yet another cry of pleasure from above interrupted Sora’s thoughts. “What in the—”

“Oh, come now, we must make haste!” Zexion urged. He frantically gestured his arms towards the front door and rushed everyone to gather their cloaks.

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

“Oh, Axel…w-what does—goodness…!” An audible moan tore through Roxas’ throat as Axel quickened his pace. Their bodies moved as though they were trying to melt into the other’s body. “A-Axel, what does…does it mean when two people become one?” Roxas wondered through quickened breaths, still moving his body against Axel’s own under a set of wrinkled blankets they managed to grasp onto.

Waves of pleasure continued to dance through Roxas’ body from head to toe. He writhed every few seconds, but tried to conjure up proper thoughts. Unfortunately most of them were expertly clouded by sheer pleasure.

The servant smiled coyly as he trailed soft kisses along his master’s slender neck, face still flushed a wild pink. “I-I believe when two beings become one, it means they have successfully made love.” He gave Roxas’ hand a gentle squeeze and captured his lips for a chaste kiss. “It means they have completed one another.”

Slender fingers danced across the milky skin of Axel’s back, like a harmless fire. “Does this mean…y-you and I are one?” Roxas paused (almost reluctantly), propped his upper body up using his elbows and glanced down curiously. It seemed as though he and Axel were one since their bodies were pressed together, half-trapped under the blankets.

But even Axel wasn’t completely certain. He swallowed and slowly controlled his breathing. “My father once made an attempt to teach me about the act of love. He wanted me to capture the heart of a beautiful maiden one day and prove myself as he did my mother.”

Roxas wrapped his arms behind Axel’s neck and pulled the man down for more kisses, never wanting to obliterate the romantic ambience with conversations of their unsupportive family members. “If you know how to, then claim me, my love. Complete me,” the prince whispered suavely. “I want to belong to you only.”

A look of worry jumped onto Axel’s face. He looked away, running a hand through his messy locks. “And what if I am incorrect? I have no desire to injure your body.”

Roxas contemplated that thought and soon nodded shyly. If he returned to the castle with any injuries, his mother or Olette would interrogate him. Or perhaps even Naminé would consider questioning his unusual movements. Roxas simply could not put Axel’s life in jeopardy. “Then we will continue to make love… in our own way,” the boy firmly decided. “After all…you and I could…could make love again someday. A-and when that time comes…we will do it correctly.”

With a warm smile sweeping over his flushed features, Axel brought his lips down onto Roxas’ own and kissed him with great passion. Thin fingers caressed the sides of the prince’s face, and slowly they slid down to the boy’s chin, tilting it upwards. “I love you, Roxas. You are very understanding and gentle.”

“Only because of you,” Roxas added, mirroring his lover’s expression while running his fingers through the man’s dampened hair. As Roxas’ soft lips pressed up against Axel’s neck, the man shuddered and released a shaky sigh.

Soon they returned to moving their bodies together in fervent rhythms, drawing out heavy breaths from their burning lungs. The pace of their movements were quick and smooth, and they could only moan in sheer pleasure, delighting in the remarkable sensation coursing through their very souls. Everything they did felt so right—so perfect that they never wanted it to ever reach an end. They felt as though they didn’t need to make love the traditional way because all they needed was each other. The heat gathering in their stomachs and lower regions drove them wild. Neither of them could stop moving.

The countless kisses they shared were never sloppy, but filled with affection. The sound of their names being called out mixed in with the endless string of moans. They eventually picked up the pace of their movements, bringing them closer and closer towards the end of their fiery session. Everything they did came all too naturally.

It wasn’t long before they reached their limits, since they had never made love before. They desperately clung onto one another, curled their toes into the sheets, and uttered each other’s names one last time. Axel and Roxas’ bodies became tense for a brief moment and the tightness and heat in their stomachs vanished. The servant panted heavily and nearly collapsed onto his beloved master, but he kept himself up with the remaining strength in his elbows.

The couple desperately took in air as they eased their muscles. When one of them shifted, both froze, suddenly acknowledging the strange substance between their bodies.

“Goodness…!” they thought in synchronization. The couple glanced down at the result of their lovemaking and blushed abundantly, for they did not expect anything other than perspiration to release from their bodies. Axel rolled towards the window and covered himself with a blanket. Roxas pulled a sheet up to his torso, feeling a tiny bit embarrassed.

Soon they brushed the thought of messiness aside, deciding that they were both too exhausted and too satisfied to really care about something so trivial.

Axel and Roxas were actually content with their oversensitive bodies at the moment, and their hearts raced wildly inside their heaving chests. Lovemaking for them didn’t last as long as they’d expected, but that didn’t change the fact that it was an utterly amazing and unforgettable experience.

Silence hovered the room for several minutes as the couple lay next to one another. Fresh air entered their lungs as they relaxed all of their muscles. Eventually they gazed into each other’s eyes and smiled coyly at their success. “That was perfect,” Roxas remarked with soft chuckle. He ran a hand through Axel’s hair and attempted to fix the dishevelled mess. Small threads of crimson red hair shot out in every direction; it was nearly impossible to adjust every soft spike within the span of five minutes, but the prince was willing to try. He grinned when Axel flashed him a bright smile. “We made love, Axel.” It sent tingles of joy down the prince’s spine to utter those words. His body had never experienced such amazing pleasure before; only Axel could have loved his body in such a passionate manner. “Oh, dearest, it was wonderful!” he whispered breathlessly, a vivid blush painted over his cheeks.

Axel dipped into his dresser and fished out a handkerchief so he could wipe down the prince’s glistening body. “You are absolutely ravishing tonight. I’m glad you are mine.” The man felt relieved when those words poured from his lips. No one else could ever have his beloved Roxas, and it made him the happiest man in the world to think that. Using his free hand, Axel brushed aside Roxas’ feathery bangs and offered him a lopsided smile. “I wanted to complete you but I did not want to risk injuring your body.”

Perhaps what they did wasn’t the proper way of making love, because they hadn’t done anything more than frottage, but it was absolutely perfect to them. The fact that they spent a good portion of their night together bestowing unimaginable pleasure upon one another was proof enough that they had made love.

Roxas smiled appreciatively and shook his head as the man continued to sweep everything off his body. “No, my love. I meant what I said; everything was absolutely perfect. Nothing more was needed.” With a deep, blissful sigh, the prince turned his body and stared at the sky where the shimmering stars had finally settled down. Tingles of joy leapt through his entire body as he pulled a sheet up to his shoulders.

After cleaning himself, the servant rose from the bed and discarded the tainted handkerchief into a small bin that sat next to his desk. He rejoined the prince on the other side of the bed and enveloped the boy in his arms. Both of them were able to gaze upon the stars now. “I wish I could at least perfect the rest of the night for you…”

Twirling his body around, Roxas presented the servant with a quizzical look. “Oh? Is that even possible? I feel as though we’ve had the most magnificent night together. My body had never experienced such pleasure until now, but only your gentle hands…could…” A flush of embarrassment covered Roxas’ cheeks when Axel coughed awkwardly into his fist. The timid prince hugged a pillow and buried half of his face into it to conceal his reddened cheeks. He supposed it wasn’t becoming of a prince to announce how wonderful his entire body felt after making love, but he honestly enjoyed it. “How could one possibly improve a wonderful night like this?”

The servant smiled adoringly at his bashful master and raked a hand through his unruly hair. “Well, I thought about keeping you warm in my arms for the entire night, so we may greet the morning together.”

A look of excitement hopped onto the prince’s features as he peeked up from the cushiony pillow. “Oh? So we may witness the sunrise together?” he wondered elatedly, inching closer towards Axel.

The man lowered his body so his emerald eyes met Roxas’ shimmering ocean blue ones. “Or I could watch you sleep until you reveal your eyes to the new day. You look radiant under the golden sun, after all. I would gaze upon your splendour throughout the morning, and when you rise from the bed, I would prepare breakfast for you.” With a charming smile creasing his features, Axel fished out Roxas’ hand and kissed the faux gem on his finger.

“That would be ever so wonderful! It would bring me great happiness to wake next…to you.” Suddenly heartbroken, the prince ducked his head and shook it. A sad pout rested on his and Axel’s lips as awkward silence polluted the entire room. Excitement vanished when both of them remembered that their time together was very limited now. Their fingers were laced together so tightly that it began to leave bruises, but neither cared about the physical pain they experienced. It paled in comparison to the feeling of loneliness.

Fate was unkind to the prince and the servant.

“I will always love you, Axel,” Roxas strongly declared, shattering the silence. Setting the pillow aside, the prince hugged his servant tightly, making it evident that he never wanted relinquish the man from his grasp. “I will never forget the wonderful night we shared together.” Tears trickled down the prince’s face, and he made great effort to hide his shame. The blanket wasn’t good enough, for the wetness seeped through the thin fabric. He pressed his forehead against Axel’s chest and allowed the tears to slide down his cheeks, hoping that none of the drops would kiss the man’s skin.

Fortunately for Roxas, Axel understood the agonizing pain in his heart. He wrapped his arms tightly around Roxas’ bare frame and wept quietly. “I’ll never stop loving you. Ever,” he promised with a hushed voice. “I will never forget that I claimed you as my first. I am very fortunate to have someone so enchanting, so kind and loving. Our hearts will always be bound, yes?” With a meek smile, Axel showed the prince the faux ring hugging his finger.

After taking a single glance at it, Roxas nodded and kissed the azure gem with a small smile attached to his thin lips. “Near or far…you and I will always be together.” Despite the promise they made, the tears refused stop flowing from his eyes. Roxas’ heart still ached, knowing that he wouldn’t meet eyes with his beloved for a long while.

“I will make love to you again one day, and we will stay together until the new day arrives.” Axel inched downwards and gently pressed his forehead against Roxas’ own. “We will dance in a field together with fireflies surrounding us.” The servant scooped the prince’s hand up and littered butterfly kisses all over the back of it. Even on the fake emerald sitting on top of the crown of Roxas’ ring. “We will visit Zephyr and the family of Carbuncles again…and…we will play with them, just as we did today.” Tears continued to spill from his eyes, but he smiled sanguinely to brighten the prince’s spirits.

“We have events to look forward to. So—so be well until then! Until we…until we meet again.”

And after that, silence overcame them. All they needed was a warm embrace and a tender kiss to seal their promises all together. It was as though the prince and his servant had tied them all into a neat knot.

They held one another a while longer and wondered how they were going to utter their farewells. Perhaps it was too painful to even speak the word “farewell”. The meaning of it was too deep; it sounded as though they were going to say goodbye to one another. Forever, that is.

They knew their time was up once the front door to the dwelling creaked open. The sound of Sora’s voice resonated through the hollow home.

The prince and servant plucked their garments from the chairs and floor and they dressed one another. Axel strongly insisted on dressing his master, because he thought it had been far too long since he’d been granted such an opportunity. Roxas smiled timidly and gave the man permission to attach the peasant garments to his body. And as the man did so, Roxas spoke of Olette’s plan for the following day.

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

The couple descended the stairs together, hand in hand, and met eyes with their friends, who waited patiently in the hallway. Demyx smiled proudly at Axel for his accomplishments, while Zexion blushed profusely. Fortunately his long bangs concealed half of it.

“I’m glad we were able to see you before your departure, Axel.” Sora lunged at the man and hugged him tightly, silently thanking the man for all of the wonderful things he’d ever done. “Promise you will ask for Roxas’ hand in marriage one day!” he suddenly demanded, earning a vivid blush from the prince and an amused chuckle from Demyx.

Axel gently raked a hand through Sora’s hair and smiled warmly. “It would bring me great joy if he became my spouse one day. I would never dream of letting him slip from my grasp.”

Tears of joy and sadness slid down the brunet’s reddened face. He hastily wiped them away with a sleeve and fixed his posture. “G-good! You have my consent to marry him!”

A soft chuckle slipped past Axel’s slightly parted lips as Sora sniffed loudly and retreated. “You have my utmost gratitude then.” The servant dipped his body for a courteous bow, drawing out a low grunt from the brunet who was making great effort to put on a strong front.

It was Riku’s turn to step forward this time, and for once he spoke with a tiny hint of kindness laced around his voice. However, his expression remained unreadable. “You are a kind man, Axel, and we are fortunate to have met you. Never lose that trait of yours. Otherwise the prince will have us strike you with our swords.”

Even though Riku’s tone was monotonous, Axel couldn’t help but chuckle at his dry humour. It certainly was a trait the redhead was going to miss dearly. “Take care of my Roxas until I see him again.”

“We all will,” Zexion promised, confidence leaking from his words. “He is the beloved prince of our kingdom after all.”

Sora sniffled as tears began to stream down his cheeks again. Riku rolled his eyes and led his surprisingly sensitive master out the front door, hoping to conceal the boy’s embarrassment. “We will wait for you at the nearest hill. Do not feel pressured to leave so suddenly, Roxas. Enjoy your remaining time with Axel.” After a quick but courteous bow, Riku snatched Sora’s arm and dragged them towards the hill he’d mentioned. The brunet scowled and scolded his servant for yanking him away from the dwelling so soon. Their voices disappeared into the night as they drifted further and further away.

Demyx and Zexion required no hints at all; they disappeared into the main room for the time being and offered Axel and Roxas some privacy to themselves. Words went unspoken for several minutes. It was far too difficult to utter a farewell, just as they had expected.

Instead, the prince allowed his body to express his feelings this time. He elevated his heels and allowed his lips to meet Axel’s for one long, passionate kiss. It seemed like this one kiss was going to be their very last, and so they savoured it. Axel wrapped his arms around the prince’s thin frame and pulled the boy forward to deepen the kiss. The couple stood in that one position for a single minute, and then Roxas withdrew, gasping desperately for air. Still, there wasn’t a feeling of satisfaction inside either of them. Something obvious was still missing.

Roxas discovered that he still lacked the ability to speak, and thus he began walking towards the exit. Even with a strange, empty feeling inside, he couldn’t bring himself to utter any words. “I cannot say goodbye! Please do not force—”

To Roxas’ dismay Axel grasped his wrist and yanked him back into the main hallway. His heart thundered wildly inside his chest, for fear began to overwhelm him. Perhaps Axel was upset with him for wanting to escape the scene so suddenly. It was an obvious sign of weakness from the prince, who wanted to flee from his problems.

However, it was evident that Axel thought otherwise because he pulled his young master to his chest for a warm embrace. “Be well.” That was the beginning of his farewell, and Roxas knew it, because tears began to gather in his eyes once more.

The prince summoned his voice with brute force and looked his servant in the eyes with determination flickering in his own. He felt it was his turn to utter a proper farewell. If Axel could manage, so could he. “A…a while longer, Axel. I promise we will be reunited again soon…so please take care of yourself and send letters to me. Send me a letter at least once every week, so I know you are well.”

A smiled filled with appreciation and satisfaction frolicked across Axel’s lips as he dropped a small kiss on Roxas’ nose. “I will,” he whispered, caressing the boy’s cheek with a hand. “I bid you good night, my love. May you be blessed with the sweetest dreams.”

The sound of a clicking tongue ricocheted off the hollow walls, earning a look of confusion from the servant. “My silly Axel, my dreams will only be sweet if you are in them,” Roxas chimed, batting an eyelash for a charming little wink.

“You flatter me.” Axel traced his fingers along Roxas’ face once more, memorizing each smooth curve without hesitation. A warm smile remained on his features when his fingers reached the boy’s chin. “I am forever yours.”

“I am forever yours.” Roxas echoed those words with a genuine smile and then slipped away from Axel’s delicate touch. He threw on his hood and walked along the dirt path that led to the nearby hill, where Sora was sobbing and sweeping his face with a dampened sleeve.

There was no possible way for Roxas to twist around on his heels now. Otherwise he would never be able to force himself to leave Axel’s side. This was the right decision. Only a hint of remorse lingered in his heart.

Roxas’ hands were clenched the entire time he climbed the steep hill. Riku noticed it but remained quiet, not knowing what to say. Words of comfort refused to escape from his lips, because Riku knew they would pierce the boy’s heart with the force of a dagger. He silently respected the prince for being the owner of a strong will.

With curiosity eating away at his soul, Roxas looked behind his shoulder and wondered if Axel had disappeared into his home. To his surprise, the man was standing at the door frame with an unreadable expression attached to his features. He seemed so lonely standing near a dimly lit room with no one by his side. But when their eyes met, Axel brightened up and smiled, waving a hand cutely in front of his chest. “I love you,” he mouthed inaudibly.

Roxas’ heart leapt with joy when he caught sight of such a sweet gesture. He raised a hand to his chest and waved back timidly, hoping the man caught sight of it. “I love you, as well.” They blew kisses to one another and cherished the sweet gestures in their hearts.

After that, Axel knew he had to retire into his dwelling for the rest of the evening. The peasants living in the nearby homes would become suspicious if he stood at his doorway too long. It was quite possible that people were still wide awake because of the starry night.

They exchanged glances once last time and smiled before Axel turned his back to his beloved prince. Sadness seeped into his veins, but he accepted that natural feeling into his heart.

Roxas pouted, wanting to call out Axel’s name, but he couldn’t find his voice.

When Axel disappeared into his dwelling, the front door closed and the dim lights slowly faded into darkness. Roxas stood at the top of the hill where the comforting silence surrounded him. A gust of wind blew and lifted his cloak and hair in a messy manner, but it helped ease his pain nonetheless. He rested a hand over his chest, feeling as though a part of his heart had been torn off; it was an agonizing sensation that lingered for a short period of time. A single tear slid down his cheek, but his arm immediately wiped it away.

“You did a good deed. Axel will live a happier life because of your efforts.” Even Roxas’ mind was trying to find ways to console him. It honestly helped lift the pain off his heart, and he kept in mind that he and Axel had finally made love for the first time. It was a joyous occasion he would never forget. Even the stars twinkled at him as though they were making silent promises to grant his wishes some day.

“I’m ready to take my leave,” Roxas announced to his escorts.

After taking one last glance at Axel’s home, the prince turned his body, took Riku and Sora’s hands into his own and began to journey back to his castle. They gave Roxas supportive squeezes and he smiled appreciatively at their attempts to comfort him. “Everything will be fine!” his mind chirped, putting his heart at ease. “I look forward to the day I meet you again…my dearest servant.”

....……………………………………………o…O…o………………………………………………...

A/N: Huzzah! They did it! (Well, sorta). I don't believe people are professionals when they have sex their first time--not everyone anyway. I kept Axel and Roxas' innocence during the lovemaking session because it seemed more fitting for them. I hope this chapter was enjoyable because it's going to be a while before I update again. Yessss, blame school.

Thanks for reading! And of course, as always, thanks for the support!

Edit: For those of you who don't know what a carbuncle is, you can look it up on Google images but you must add FF VIII, because that's the one I thought about when I wrote this chapter. Oh, and for anons, feel free to leave an e-mail address or a site where I can reply to your comments. :)

Date posted: October 13th, 2009