WARNING 18++
The great room stretched out before them, decorated with magnificent paintings that lined the walls and gave it an air of regal elegance. The large windows allowed sunlight to pour in, casting a warm glow over the polished floors and luxurious furnishings. Rupert, followed closely by his bodyguards, entered Arus' chamber and knelt in a sign of respect.
"Your Majesty, we have returned." Rupert announced, bowing his head as he removed his protective helmet.
"We have successfully reclaimed the Cross Forest and resealed it with the royal symbol of the Holy Kingdom," he continued, rising to his feet and facing Arus.
"Really? Excellent news. And Narsillia?" Arus inquired, scanning behind Rupert where only two bodyguards stood guard.
Rupert's brow furrowed in deep thought. His father had a habit of inquiring about Gariel's whereabouts after every war. It was clear that Gariel held a special place in his heart as the one who had done the most to reclaim the territories, including the Holy Kingdom. But Rupert couldn't shake the feeling that his father should be more concerned about him than a royal wizard.
"I believe he was resting in his chamber when he returned to the palace before me," Rupert replied quickly, pushing away any negative thoughts.
"Really? Were there any casualties among our troops?" Arus asked with genuine concern.
"No, Father. Gariel was careful to keep our soldiers out of harm's way. It was only the two of us who successfully conquered the treacherous Crosswoods," Rupert replied proudly, a smile spreading across his face. The air around them seemed to lighten as they basked in the glory of their victory.
Arus let out a deep sigh of relief, the tension that had been building in his chest slowly dissipating. He finally understood why Gariel hadn't been the first to greet him when he left Crosswood. It was usually his job to bring news of any wars or conflicts that had occurred, not Prince Terramai's. But this time it was different. Arus couldn't help but think how much he had relied on Gariel over the years, even appointing him as the new Royal Wizard. The memory of Gariel's coronation came flooding back, and with it a flood of emotions. There had been a massive uproar from the Heroic Wizard and Cleric organisations, who were vehemently opposed to a male becoming Royal Wizard. But Master Mariel, wise and influential as ever, had stepped in and quelled the dissent with a few words.
Changing long-standing traditions and challenging age-old rules was a daunting task, especially for Mariel. In defiance of the Wizards' tradition, which strictly prohibited men from becoming Wizards, Mariel had boldly taken on the role herself. It was an act that went against everything the society believed in and was considered taboo and dangerous. The elders of the Hall of Fairystar were shocked and horrified - how could a male sorcerer, with his ambition and strong will, handle such power? Undeterred by their disapproval, Mariel continued to teach Gariel magic, even delving into forbidden realms. Gariel's innate talent for sorcery was undeniable, flowing through his veins like a river of magic. And despite knowing Gariel's true identity, Mariel saw no reason to reject this gift.
"I'm going to see Gariel, Father," Rupert said with a sweeping bow, his bodyguard trailing behind him.
"Wake him tonight. There will be a dance in your honour, my son. A celebration of the Crosswoods becoming the property of the Holy Kingdom." Arus replied, his voice full of pride.
"For me?" asked Rupert confusedly, turning back to his father.
"Not for you, but for your future wife, Rupert." Arus explained firmly, fixing his piercing gaze on his son.
Rupert closed his eyes and let out a sigh, running a hand through his dishevelled hair as he massaged his temples. The weight of responsibility and duty weighed heavily on his shoulders as he contemplated the arranged marriage that awaited him.
The tension radiated from Rupert's clenched jaw and rigid posture as he stood in the doorway of his father's room.
"I told you," he said through clenched teeth,
"I will not replace Father as King." His voice was loud and commanding, believing the determination in his words. He turned to leave, his footsteps echoing on the polished stone floor, but not before adding another statement:
"That's Jack's job, and I'm quite content with my life now." As he left, the air in the room seemed to shift - a sense of disappointment mixed with relief. The heavy, ornate door closed behind him with a thud. Rupert took a deep breath and whispered to himself, almost pleadingly,
"I just want Gariel to stay by my side, Father." The weight of his unspoken wishes hung heavy in the silence as he walked away from the throne room and towards an uncertain future.
Rupert strode purposefully down the great corridor of the palace, the plush carpet muffling his footsteps. He was heading for Gariel's room in the south wing, his heart heavy with conflicting emotions. His father, the King, had long been determined to arrange a royal marriage for Rupert to a princess from a neighbouring kingdom. But since receiving Jack's letter from Gariel, Rupert's desire to be crown prince or inherit the kingdom had faded. All he wanted now was to be close to someone who believed in him and gave him strength.
As he reminisced about his childhood, Rupert couldn't help but feel like a very different person from the scared little boy he had once been. Before meeting Gariel, he had been shy and sheltered, too afraid to leave his own room. Arus, his doting father, had spoiled him rotten and he had often been called a crybaby. It was only when Gariel came into his life that things changed. The older boy became like a brother to Rupert, always there to protect and encourage him. But over time, their bond had grown into something more, something Rupert could no longer hide from himself or anyone else.
As Rupert entered Gariel's room, a wave of familiar scent hit him - the sweet, delicate scent of Queen Claire's favourite flower. The white walls were decorated with paintings of the same flowers, contrasting sharply with the dark wooden furniture. In the centre of the room was a large bed, draped in luxurious silk sheets and pillows. It was on this bed that Gariel lay asleep, his blindfold still covering his eyes. The room was peaceful and comforting, as if he had been transported back to his mother's chambers. Rupert quietly approached the bed and sat down on the edge, his eyes scanning Gariel's sleeping form.
Rupert's right hand twitched as he tried to remove the blindfold that covered his eyes. Gariel, ever alert, caught his hand before he could act and asked, "What's wrong, Rupert?"
Startled by the sudden contact, Rupert hesitated before pulling his hand out of Gariel's tight grip. He looked at the smaller hand in front of him, noting how it contrasted with his own larger one.
"Are you awake, Gariel?" he asked, still not quite believing that this was all real.
Gariel sat up on his bed, smoothing his slightly dishevelled hair as he looked at the handsome prince standing before him.
"Have you eaten, Rupert?" Gariel asked gently, reaching out to stroke the side of Rupert's cheek.
Rupert shook his head, grateful for the touch and clinging to the hand that remained on his face.
"I'm waiting for you," he replied softly.
Gariel's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean? Isn't there a great feast being held by King Arus in your honour?"
Rupert's shoulders slumped as he replied, "I will not be attending."
His words hung heavy in the air, filled with sadness and resignation. Gariel rose from his bed and walked over to open his wardrobe, trying to hide his own disappointment. But deep down he knew that nothing could change Rupert's decision now.
Gariel's eager voice pierced the air, breaking the stillness that surrounded them. His footsteps were muffled by the lush carpet beneath his feet as he walked towards Rupert, a beautiful set of clothes in his hand.
"Why?" He asked again, his eyes filled with curiosity and concern.
"These are for you," Gariel said, handing the clothes to Rupert as a twentieth birthday present.
"I'm sorry I'm late in giving them to you, but I think you should wear them to the party tonight."
Rupert accepted the gift and examined it carefully. It was a crisp white royal suit with the Crusader symbol intricately embroidered on the left breast. A small smile appeared on Rupert's face before he turned to the Royal Wizard standing before him. Without hesitation, he pulled Gariel into a warm embrace and whispered their plans for the evening.
"You should come too, Gariel," Rupert said, taking in the soothing scent of his dear friend. The sweet aroma of lavender and vanilla lingered in the air around them, bringing a sense of peace and comfort amidst all the chaos of palace life.
Gariel's lips curved into a soft smile as he watched Rupert, marvelling at how the Prince's demeanour never seemed to change. Gariel's hand ran gently through Rupert's short black hair, the strands contrasting sharply with his own elegant black skin. It was a stark contrast to the fair complexions of the Queen and King, but that was what made Rupert so unique and special in Gariel's eyes.
"I'm not used to this kind of activity, Rupert." Gariel replied with gentle understanding.
"Then I won't go." Rupert murmured, his face still buried in Gariel's chest.
"It's all right. Now go to your room and change into something appropriate." Gariel released Rupert from his arms and cupped the prince's adorable cheeks in his hands, admiring how mature and tall he looked for his young age.
Rupert's smile widened before he rose from Gariel's bed. He leaned down to plant a quick kiss on the Royal Wizard's forehead before making his way out of the room. Gariel watched in silence as Rupert walked away, holding a secret in his heart.
.
.
.
The Kingdom of Saint was abuzz with excitement that night. Representatives from neighbouring kingdoms had come to join in the celebration of Crosswood becoming an official part of the Kingdom of Saint. It was also an opportunity for King Arus to find a suitable mate for his successor, Prince Rupert. Princesses from nearby kingdoms dressed in their finest, hoping to catch the prince's eye. They were all gathered in the palace's magnificent Great Hall.
The great hall was filled with the sound of applause as Arus, the greatest king of the Shiltz continent, greeted the guests who had travelled so far to visit his palace. He stood tall and proud, his voice commanding attention as he addressed the audience.
"Yesterday marked a significant victory for our kingdom," Arus announced, his words echoing throughout the hall.
"The most sacred forest on the Shiltz continent was reclaimed by the Holy Kingdom, thanks to the perseverance and courage of Prince Terramai." He turned to embrace Rupert, the Prince standing beside him, and introduced him to all present.
"But we must also recognise that this success would not have been possible without the help of our royal wizard, Gariel Narsillia," Arus continued, glancing around the room but not finding the male wizard among them.
"My apologies, Your Majesty. Did I miss something?" A small voice came from the direction of the gate, belonging to none other than Gariel himself. The crowd fell silent, eagerly awaiting his answer.
The crowd gasped in amazement as the royal wizard made his grand entrance. With such a commanding and elegant presence, it was no wonder that all eyes were on him. Even Rupert, who had known Gariel for years, couldn't believe his eyes when he saw the Wizard's transformation. Everyone's eyes were filled with admiration and curiosity.
"Welcome, Narsillia. I have arranged this celebration in your honour." Arus beamed at his adopted son, glad to see him at an event he would once have avoided.
Gariel's slender frame resembled that of a woman, with long hair cascading down his back. Despite their doubts about his gender, everyone couldn't help but be charmed by his appearance. He was wearing a simple brown dress, typical of wizards, but he managed to make it look effortlessly elegant without any patterns. The dress was sleeveless, revealing Gariel's smooth skin, as soft as goose feathers. And though he still wore his signature blindfold, there was an undeniable air of power and mystery about him.
In one hand, Gariel held his magic wand - the same colour as his dress. The tip of the wand spread out like the wings of a bat, leading to a brilliant blue crystal ball at its centre. This was no ordinary wand; it was the Staff of Raziel - the same staff wielded by Balie Raziel, the Keeper of Dark Secrets.
Gariel saluted King Arus and Terramai as they stood before him. "Thank you, Your Majesty. There's no need for you to go to all this trouble for a royal wizard."
"You look beautiful, Narsillia," Arus replied as he leaned forward to kiss Gariel's upper right hand.
"I'm glad you decided to join us tonight. It's your first party and I didn't know what to do since you always refused my invitations."
"Prince Terramai was quite insistent. He practically dragged me here, but I knew it was important for me to attend, especially on the anniversary of Queen Claire's death. I also wanted to pay my respects to you, Prince." Gariel withdrew his hand and looked at both Arus and Rupert with a knowing smile. Arus returned the smile, pleased by Gariel's words.
The Royal Sorcerer's Holy Kingdom might be unfamiliar to some, but to Arus it was his home and his legacy. He proudly introduced Narsillia Gariel, a child he had adopted as his own, known as "The Ward" in the book titled "Crude Prophecy". As Gariel stood beside him, his presence exuded a quiet strength and determination.
Arus' voice rang through the gathered crowd, "Believe it or not, without Narsillia, our beloved kingdom would never stand a chance of regaining its former glory!
Rupert, Arus' son, sighed and shook his head. He knew his father meant well, but he didn't need to put Gariel under such pressure in front of everyone. With a stern look at his father, Rupert gently pulled Gariel's hand away from the intense spotlight. Despite his father's words, Rupert knew that it was Gariel's contribution to the kingdom that gave them real hope.
,
,
,
The sun was setting over the kingdom as Rupert and Gariel stood on the balcony of the palace, the warm evening breeze ruffling their hair. "I'm sorry about Father, Gariel. He was too upset," Rupert said with a hint of sadness in his voice.
"It's all right, Rupert. I still don't understand what he called it. The Ward or something," Gariel replied, shrugging his shoulders in confusion.
"Father told me a story about a prophecy," Rupert began to explain, his eyes shining with intensity. "A prophecy about a child who would make the world peaceful again and eradicate the darkness from Shiltz. Father said this child would become a great wizard and do great things, giving people the courage to change their fate."
"The Ward of Narsillia," Rupert continued, emphasising each word. "That is you, Gariel." He took Gariel's hands again, his voice full of conviction.
"I'm not that great, Rupert. I'm just a royal wizard, entrusted to guard this kingdom, and I do it with all my heart," Gariel replied humbly.
"For you, Rupert," Gariel continued, touching Rupert's cheek gently through his blindfold.
"I will always care for you. Whatever hinders your steps in returning the Holy Kingdom's territory, I will be there to help you." His words carried a deep sense of loyalty and devotion as he looked at Rupert. The soft hues of the setting sun cast a warm glow on their faces, emphasising their bond as friends and allies on this journey.
Rupert's voice was deep and determined as he spoke, his fingers gently tracing the contours of Gariel's face. His touch sent a shiver down Gariel's spine as Rupert leaned in and captured his lips in a soft kiss.
Surprised by the sudden display of affection, Gariel tried to push Rupert away, but the prince's grip on his hands was unbreakable. He found himself lost in the sensation of Rupert's lips, unable to resist as their kisses grew more passionate.
Gariel couldn't believe what was happening - was this really Prince Rupert kissing him? Or was it all just a dream? He had been having strange dreams about the Prince lately, but this felt so real, those thin lips pressed against his own.
When they broke the kiss for a moment, Gariel gasped for breath, only for Rupert to deepen the kiss again. Confused and slightly overwhelmed, Gariel found himself being pulled to another part of the room by Rupert's firm grip on his wrist.
The scent of musky cologne and sweet excitement filled the air as they entered Rupert's bedroom. Without warning, the prince threw him onto the bed with a loud thud.
"What's the matter with you, Rupert?" Gariel asked, confused and in pain from being thrown to the bed. Before he could even register what was happening, he felt Rupert's body over his own, holding him down with strong arms.
Rupert kissed Gariel wildly, their bodies pressed together in a frenzy of desire and longing.
Despite Gariel's protests, Rupert continued to shower him with kisses, slowly undressing him. "I won't give you to anyone," Rupert declared, remembering the letter from Jack that had made him feel like a mere substitute.
"You are mine and no one else's, Gariel." But when Gariel tried to escape his embrace and get out of bed, Rupert grabbed him from behind.
"Please don't do this," Gariel begged through tears. "What if I meet King Arus and he sees us?" But Rupert remained firm, questioning Gariel about his relationship with the King, and putting him back on the bed before lifting his legs.
"Father! Father! What is your relationship with Father that makes you respect him so much?" Rupert asked curtly and laid Gariel's small body down before lifting his legs.
Gariel's body convulsed as he struggled against the restraints, desperately trying to cover himself as his clothes were removed. Rupert's rough fingers roamed over his bare skin, probing, searching for something. Gariel cried out in agony as Rupert pushed an object into his body, causing him to twitch and writhe in pain. He had never experienced anything like this before, his mind racing with fear and confusion. As he lay there, vulnerable and exposed, Gariel prayed that Rupert would not put him through any more agony. The air was thick with the stench of sweat and fear, making it difficult for Gariel to concentrate on anything but the violation of his body.
Gariel's jaw dropped in shock as Rupert pushed a larger object into his body, filling him to the brim. He cried out in pain and pleasure as Rupert's vital organ joined his own, uniting them in an unimaginable way.
But before Gariel could fully process the sensation, he was lifted into Rupert's strong arms and hugged tightly, their bodies intertwining even more intimately. With each movement, Rupert's vital organ penetrated deeper and deeper into Gariel's body, eliciting muffled moans and tears from him.
"You're mad, Rupert! How could you do this?" Gariel sobbed as he sat on Rupert's thigh, feeling helpless and violated.
"I love you, Gariel. Can't you see that?" Rupert whispered, kissing Gariel's neck and sending shivers down his spine.
"This is wrong. Stop it, Rupe-ahh!" Gariel screamed as Rupert continued to move his body, rubbing against the sensitive walls of his anus until he felt he couldn't take any more.
Rupert's voice quivered with desperation as he begged, "I only want you, Gariel. My father knew of my feelings for you, that's why he threw this wretched party to distract me. But he was wrong, I could never give you to another, Narsillia."
Gariel remained silent, his mind lost in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Suddenly, Rupert's body jerked and writhed in agony as something forced its way out of him.
Gariel recoiled in horror as a torrent of viscous fluid spewed from Rupert's body and poured into his own. He gasped for breath, his mind reeling from the overwhelming sensation.
But amidst the chaos and disgust, Gariel felt something unexpected - warmth and comfort. With tears streaming down his face, he embraced Rupert's trembling body, feeling a twisted sense of love and possession over his royal wizard.
.
.
.
In the early hours of the morning, Gariel was rudely awakened by the light filtering into Rupert's dark room. As he tried to make sense of his surroundings, he realised he was covered in a sticky mess and alone in the room. The sickening smell of sex hung heavy in the air, making him feel disgusted with himself.
Struggling to stand, Gariel winced as his sore waist protested. Noticing something dripping from his body, he quickly wiped it away and wrapped himself in a blanket. But before he could fully compose himself, there was a knock at the door.
In a panic, Gariel rushed to clean up and get dressed before hastily opening the door to see Arus standing there.
"Your Majesty! I... I must apologise... I fell asleep in Prince Terramai's room," Gariel stammered, embarrassed to have been caught in such a compromising position.
Arus' face softened as he placed a hand on Gariel's shoulder. "Has Rupert done anything to you?"
"No, Your Majesty. Prince Terramai is as spoiled as ever," Gariel forced out through clenched teeth, trying to control his emotions.
"Well then, would you like to join me for breakfast?" Arus offered, but despite his calm demeanour, Gariel couldn't shake the uneasy feeling in his gut.
.
.
.
CROSS LAKE, SEAL OF WATER.
The vast, sprawling army of the Holy Kingdom gathered at Cross Lake, their shining armour and weapons glistening in the sunlight. Above them, a towering blue seal vortex pulsated with otherworldly energy. Leading this formidable group was Rupert, whose regal presence commanded the respect and loyalty of his troops.
As they marched forward, the Guardians and Defenders took their place at the forefront, their determination and courage evident with every step. Above them fluttered the proud banner of the Holy Kingdom, a symbol of hope in this cursed land. Behind them, the Tricksters pranced and danced, their sharp daggers gleaming as they prepared for battle.
Amidst the chaos of preparation, SwordMaster and Barbarian stood tall and imposing, their massive weapons striking fear into the hearts of all who dared challenge them. As they surveyed the area, filled with elite human monsters such as eagles, falcons and the sea fairies known as Saloa, it was clear that Cross Lake had been corrupted by darkness. But Rupert was undaunted, ready to lead his troops to victory against whatever evil lurked within.
"Are you sure we do not need the guidance of the Royal Sorcerer Narsillia, Prince Terramai?" asked their squad leader, Captain Jake The Defender.
Rupert's piercing gaze remained fixed ahead as he walked, his thoughts seemingly elsewhere.
"There are no saints or apostles accompanying us on this mission?" Jake inquired again, still perplexed by the prince's aloofness.
"Do you doubt my strength and abilities, Jake? The Guardians and Defenders will serve as our mighty shield. The Destroyers, Barbarians and Swordmasters will follow close behind, while the Tricksters will attack from a distance and the Assassins will provide support if needed," Rupert explained calmly.
"Very well, Prince." Jake replied with a nod, readjusting his body and signalling for his team to do the same. The sun glinted off their armour, giving them an air of formidable power as they prepared for battle.
Defender and Guardian stand tall, shields raised and swords at the ready. They form a formidable barrier for the attacking heroes, bracing themselves as the Tricksters unleash their magic, imbuing their weapons with deadly speed.
With a fierce battle cry, the group charges forward, blades flashing as they engage in a brutal dance with the elite monsters. Magic cards rain down from above, while area of effect attacks repel the beasts from all sides. The Barbarian unleashes an Ultimate attack, his twin axes spinning like a raging hurricane.
But it is the Defenders who really come into their own, unleashing precise cross skills that wreak havoc.
"Heavenly Cross!" Jake bellows, driving his sword into the ground. The earth shakes and cracks as the monsters are defeated in a spectacular display of power.
And just as it seems victory is within reach, a blinding light shines down from above, revealing a giant relic in the shape of a magnificent, intricately carved cross. In one mighty blow, it obliterates the remaining enemy forces and the heroes emerge triumphant.
Rupert clung to his magic, not wanting to lose a single ounce of the power of light he had honed as a Crusader. After what had happened last night with Gariel, he didn't dare ask for his help this time. Rupert felt foolish and cursed himself for his reckless actions in his room. He couldn't shake the feeling that Gariel must have hated him by now.
As he stood by the lake, deep in thought, a Trickster came running towards him in a panic, frantically pointing in a certain direction.
The air around them suddenly became icy and oppressive. As the elite monsters came into view, they were closely followed by a towering figure - one of the seven Elemental Guardians of the Shiltz Continent.
"Guardian of Water, the Ice Queen Loriel," Jake said breathlessly as they all gazed at her massive form, draped in eternal snow.
The female figure looms over them, her long white linen dress billowing in an invisible wind. The water seal symbol on her chest seems to pulsate with power, obscuring any view of her arms or legs. Her eyes are blank and unfeeling, like two spheres of ice that see everything and nothing at once. Behind her, a massive circle of snow ice swirls and shifts, resembling an umbrella without a handle.
"Pitiful humans, always trespassing on my domain." Loriel's voice rumbles through the Cross Lake area, echoing off the frozen walls.
"Free yourself from this darkness, Loriel! We can help you!" Rupert's words echo back, but his confidence falters as he prepares his spell.
"Oh, please, Prince Terramai. Have you forgotten your partner in our last battle? How pathetic." Loriel mocks, easily deflecting Rupert's light magic with a wave of her hand.
"Foolish mortal. Your feeble attempts at magic are no match for me, Chilling Mist." Loriel sneers as she unleashes her powers on the area, freezing everything and everyone in her path.
Without hesitation, Rupert's hands flew through the air as he cast a protective spell around his troops. But it was too late; the enemy's powerful ice magic had already taken hold. Rupert turned to look behind him and his heart sank at the sight of his frozen comrades.
"What do we do now, Prince?" asked Jake, standing beside Rupert within the protective barrier.
Rupert's mind raced as he searched for a solution. They were outnumbered and outgunned by the formidable forces of the enemy.
"Cleansing!" a voice shouted from a distance, breaking Rupert's thoughts. A bright beam of light erupted, surrounding the frozen soldiers. As quickly as they had been encased in ice, the spell was broken and Loriel's magic dissipated. The sound of gasps and screams filled the air as the soldiers stumbled to their feet, grateful to be free from the icy grip of their enemies.