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It was a beautiful sunny day and the Devil’s Den was brimming with life. The birds were chirping, the clouds lazily floated above the land of Bohemia without a care in the world and the people were carrying on with their life. Henry was leaning against the wooden railing, taking in the proximity of the place he felt was like his home by now. After the terrible fight at Suchdol he and Hans decided to coop up here, until they found something more private and fitting. It’s been hard on them both, but Hans refused to let anyone see that. He carried on as if he was not feeling miserable and utterly desperate to run away.
As Henry was about to go and wake his lordship up, Hans appeared in the door, dressed in a simpler tunic, though he wore his red cape as per usual. His hair was a bit dishevelled, but his eyes were two curious orbs ready for an adventure. “Morning, I was just about to check if you’re still breathing,” Henry chuckled, greeting Hans with a warm smile which spoke of genuine delight. “No need, dear Henry. I’ve been awake since dawn, though I was lost in thought and refused to get up so soon. I have an idea,” the noble smiled, walking closer to his page and resting his hands on his muscular shoulders. “How about I give you that archery lesson you eagerly requested?” Hans proclaimed excitedly, though as he continued his voice took on a more tender and intimate tone. “I thought about the conversation we had the other night. Some shooting practice might do us some good. What do you say?”
*** the night before ***
The nights at Devil’s Den were far from quiet and peaceful. If there was not a fight breaking every few hours there were heated arguments or friendly quarrels.It belonged to the place, made it what it was. Though, he didn’t find much joy in drinking himself silly and punching drunkards between their eyes. He used to, but now, not so much. All he wanted was some peace, to fill the gaping hole of emptiness that has grown where his heart used to be. Avenging his parents was the right thing to do, but deep down he felt it was not what they wanted. He shook his head and sat on a stump near the tavern. That was as much peace as he’ll be getting in this place, he thought.
Just as he was about to fall deeper into his thoughts a familiar figure showed up on the horizon, their stride confident, head held high. Henry smiled to himself. Hans was truly a walking light and he felt like a moth drawn to the flame. “Henry, what are you doing here so late? I expected to find you in our room,” Hans said softly as he stood right next to the stump where Henry was sitting. Henry smiled and looked up, his eyes sparkling in the dim light of the torches, “Had a lot on my mind is all. Plus I was wondering when you’ll come back from your walk. Not that I don’t trust your abilities, but… well we’ve been through a lot and I was worried something might happen.” Hans’ eyes softened at Henry’s concern and placed his hand on his shoulder. “I understand. That’s why I don’t go far. Join me next time, perhaps?” There was a playful smile on his face, but his eyes held much more than just mere playfulness. There was tenderness, affection, and yearning.
“I’d like that. If you’d suffer my company, that is,” Henry chuckled and Hans softly squeezed his shoulder. “Choose your words carefully, or I might change my mind, dear boy,” Hans hummed in response as he took in the bustling ambience of the tavern. “I might have found a private cabin where we could stay. It’s not that far from here, but it will give us all the peace and quiet we need,” Hans said softly, so that only Henry’s ears could hear. Henry softly took the hand which rested on his shoulder, enveloping it. “Need some help with arrangements?” Hans smiled and shook his head. “I’ve got it, but thank you, Henry. I don’t know what I would do without you… I… I can’t stop thinking about that night. Suchdol. It finally set this… set us into motion and I will forever be grateful for that,” Hans said, his voice heavy with emotions. It reminded Henry of that night. How one glance was all it took for him to commit his heart to his lord in ways others would dare not speak. But Henry knew, deep down, that his heart belonged with Hans ever since they set on this journey. “Don’t worry your pretty head with this now, Hans. We can talk about it when you feel ready, when it’s just us and not a tavern full of drunken idiots,” Henry said, pointing to the wooden building, though his eyes were full of amusement and certain affection for the place. “Right. You are right as always,” Hans leaned down, kissing the top of Henry’s head. The brown locks pleasingly tickled his face and he inhaled the now familiar scent. “I’ll see you upstairs.”
They laid together on Henry’s bed and the tavern’s noise faded into the background. Hans’ back was turned to Henry, his eyes unfocused, staring into the wall. Henry’s hand was gently wrapped around Hans’ torso, caressing him gently. His nose was pressed against his blonde locks, taking in his sweet scent. He smelled like drying hay in the warm summer sun. Or a blossoming meadow. This is where Henry felt good, where his racing mind stopped and where the empty gaping hole in his chest felt like it had a beating heart again.
“Hans?” Henry asked softly, though his voice vibrated through the noble’s body. “Mmm?” he hummed in response, turning his head gently. “Can you teach me archery? I always wanted to ask you, but… well, you know how it was between us at Rattay. I didn’t want to push my luck,” Henry mumbled as he nuzzled into the crook of Hans’ neck, kissing him softly. Hans groaned gently, his hand founding the familiar brown locks, his long fingers tangling in them. “You want me to teach you? Now… that’s new,” Hans wanted to chuckle, but when Henry kissed the mole on his neck a stifled moan came out instead. Henry stopped and looked at Hans in pure awe, his face dusted in pink. His blues were sparkling with adoration and curiosity. As if Hans was the most precious thing he’s ever held in his arms. Hans blinked up at him, a bit embarrassed. “You’re staring, dork,” he groaned as he tried to cover his eyes with his hand. “Oh am I? I was just enjoying the view, is that a crime now, my Lord?” Henry chuckled as he struggled playfully against Hans. Tickling his sides always did the trick. Hans withdrew his hands, his head rolled back in laughter. “Stop it, blacksmith! Good God, you’ll be the death of me…”
***
Henry’s eyes lit up and he nodded. “Of course, I’d love nothing more. Shall we grab the horses or… well we could both ride Pebbles. It would make it easier with hitching,” he said, scratching his neck anxiously. “Ride Pebbles? How could I say no to you, Henry,” Hans shook his head, amused. “Today I am no lord of Rattay. Well… I am just Hans, at least until Hanus comes for us. So riding Pebbles sounds more appealing than you’d expect,” Hans chuckled as he placed his hand on Henry’s back and led him slowly downstairs towards the horses which stood outside the tavern. “Just Hans, huh? Well last time you did that, unwillingly I must add, you did not enjoy it very much,” Hans rolled his eyes and smiled, “Still angry about the flour sacks? I will think of a way to get you to forgive me one day, I’m sure,” Hans hummed teasingly and Henry just shook his head, amused.
Henry prepared Pebbles for the ride, putting their bows and equipment onto the horse along with some wine, food and fresh linen sheets they could lay down on. Once he was sure he was prepared, he turned to Hans. “Want to ride in the front, or the back?” Hans thought for a minute before he approached Pebbles, softly petting her fur. “Today I’d prefer to ride in the back. I want to take in the view, enjoy the ride,” Henry nodded and hopped onto the saddle, offering Hans a hand which he took with delight.
Soon they were on their merry way. Henry took the ride slowly, he was not urging Pebbles to run, but instead kept her in a light stride as they took in the surrounding landscape. Hans had his hands wrapped around Henry’s waist, his head resting on his muscular back. It was still rather early in the morning and they didn’t have to worry much about meeting people on the road. The steady clapping of Pebbles’ hooves was soothing to Hans along with the summer breeze caressing his pale face. “This almost feels like a dream,” he said suddenly. “Yeah… we finally have a moment to ourselves. No wars, fights, conquerings to take care of. No noble arse saving. It feels good to have you by my side like this, Hans.” Henry admitted as they trotted down the road and onto the smaller path leading to the forest. “My noble arse enjoys squeezing into one saddle with your hairy arse a lot more than being locked up in a small, suffocating room,” Hans chuckled and closed his eyes.
Soon they arrived at a spot Hans recommended. It was rather secluded and the biggest animal in the proximity was a wandering rabbit. Henry stopped Pebbles and hopped down. He took Hans by the waist and softly removed him from the saddle. As he set him down, his hands lingered on his sides and Hans smiled softly at Henry. There was a charge between them, desire unspoken but so clear to them both. Hans couldn’t resist at least a little relief and cupped Henry’s stubbled cheek, pulling him into a quick kiss. He felt as if he was flying anytime their lips met like this. This was surely what heaven must feel like. They pulled apart and Henry looked away, trying to compose himself. “I’ll get the bows, you can lay down the sheets if you feel like it,” Henry said softly, turning to Pebbles and grabbing two bows.
The spot proved to be even better than Hans imagined. There was a perfect place for the linen sheet placed upon soft moss and not far from there was a small shooting range Hans crafted for the purposes of passing his free time when they were staying in Devil’s Den. Henry joined him on the shooting range, handing him his expensive adorned hunting bow. “Thank you, dearest. Are you prepared? I’ll give you a little show, I need to warm up and I’m sure you won’t mind,” Hans said, giving him a charming smile as he prepared his bows and soon started shooting at the targets with elegance, speed and accuracy he was known for. Henry felt special in more ways than one. Hans was giving him a private shooting lesson with a show of his abilities on top. He couldn’t take his eyes off of him. Even in the simple tunic he looked like a being sent from heaven. Once the last arrow landed onto the target, Henry let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. “You’ll never cease to amaze me, Hans,” he said, a bit speechless. Hans turned to him and instead of his usual cocky smirk there was something else. A genuine, warm and affectionate smile. “I sure hope not. Seeing your adoring face is luxury to me,” he said softly as he leaned the bow against a tree and closed the distance between him and Henry with a few quick strides.
Hans placed his hands around Henry’s neck, looking deep into his blues. Henry rested his hands on his hips gently, enjoying the proximity. “You know how to make a man feel wanted,” Hans proclaimed with a flirtatious note to his words. “You are more than wanted, Hans. In my eyes at least…” Henry said softly, one of his large hands coming to cradle the noble’s cheek gently. “You’re like the Sun itself. Basking in your light is a gift I never thought I’d learn to appreciate as much as I do now. I’d gladly burn in your light, my Hans,” Henry proclaimed, his voice full of devotion. He pressed his forehead to Hans’ and sighed. “There’s that romantic soul. I was a bit worried that it disappeared after the… whole thing happened. But here you are, Henry. My dear Henry… never change,” he kissed his nose softly before he pulled back softly so he could take a good look at him. “We’re in this together, alright? Speak to me, my boy. I want to hear your thoughts,” Hans said, caressing Henry’s stubbled face as if it was the softest silk in the world.
“I will, Hans. I promise you, but now… I want to be with you and worry not about the burdens that are so heavy on my soul, for when I am with you, I feel light. Unburdened. A man untouched by the filth this world offers. With you, I am just Henry as you are just Hans. Title, blood, sex… none of that matters between us,” Henry said, leaning into Hans’ touch. He studied his face, burning his features into memory all over again. “Very well, my darling. I do trust you will come to me when you feel the time is right. Now… shall we truly busy ourselves with the lesson from yours truly?” Hans smiled, nuzzling his nose against Henry’s in a tender gesture. “I’d like that.”
So they did. Hans stood behind Henry, correcting his posture, ensuring he was not wasting his strength. They trained for several hours until sweat started pouring down Henry’s forehead. “You did so well, my boy! Look at it! Most of the arrows are in the middle, I say you’ve made some great progress,” Hans proclaimed as he examined the target. “I think you’ve earned a well-deserved break. We can continue some other day,” he said as he went back to Henry, softly massaging his sagging shoulders. “I could use a break, aye…” Henry groaned at the pleasent sensation of Hans’ hands on his shoulders.
They sat on the linen Hans placed on the moss earlier. As they ate and drank some of the wine they didn’t speak much. The charge between them was only growing stronger and harder to ignore. Hans was going crazy the whole practice, watching Henry’s muscles contract as he released each shot. The way sweat trailed down his forehead and his eyes focused on the target. How well he obeyed his instructions. But what almost broke him was correcting his posture. As he stood beside him, his chest pressed to his back, his pelvis positioned right behind his firm backside. Hans swore he was half-hard ever since. Thankfully the tunic was long enough to cover the desire pooling under his breeches.
Henry groaned happily as he finished his food, leaning back on his hands and looking up at the trees which clouded the sky. “I needed this, thank you, dear. I wish there will be more practice days to come, you’re quite the teacher,” Henry hummed, looking at Hans. Hans chuckled and met his eyes, “You think so, huh? Well it was my pleasure… watching you work so hard. It makes one’s mind wander…” Hans tried to shoot his shot. Ever since the night at Suchdol nothing sexual happened between them, which frustrated Hans a little. He craved Henry like he craved air. Laying beside him every night has been a blessing and torture at the same time. But he didn’t want to push him, urge him. He had to try today.
Henry seemed to process his words before he smiled knowingly, sitting up and crawling over to Hans, climbing on top of him and trapping him between his arms. “You’re playing a dangerous game, my Lord,” Henry said, his voice suddenly more husky. Hans blinked up at him, but he didn’t hesitate. This was it. Finally, his hands slid to Henry’s firm arse, squeezing the two globes. “So are you, I have never felt this needy in my life. The things I’d do to you…” he said, his voice strained. He was achingly hard, yearning for the touch of the only person on this planet who could soothe this fire, stroke it into a well of pleasure and love.
“I’m feeling generous today… last time it was me who took the lead, but since you were such a good teacher… I might offer something for your hard work, hm?” Henry leaned down, kissing down his neck, making sure to pay attention to that mole on Hans’ neck. Hans moaned lowly, squeezing his arse harder. “F-fuck, slow down, Henry. I won’t last long like this,” he growled. His hands slid to Henry’s hips, flipping him over with no trouble so that he was under him. They were of similar stature, though Henry was more muscular and broad while Hans was more lean and athletic. “Now… that’s a pretty sight. Such a strong warrior, on my mercy like that,” he smiled, leaning down to kiss his neck while his hands started undressing Henry. It was so natural he didn’t have to think about it. Soon, Henry laid under him bare and Hans’ eyes couldn’t get enough. His hands started running up and down his hair covered chest, caressing the muscles. “Fuck… who made you such a gorgeous bastard. I’ll have to take you all for myself. I was never good at sharing, but you know that…” Hans chuckled breathily, but his mind was starting to cloud with lust, love and desire. Henry rested his hands on Hans’ hips, his eyes dazed. “I want to see you too, my love,” Henry whispered and Hans’ heart stopped. My love? It was an explosion of love, warmth in his chest and it scared him.
“You will, sweetness, but now, turn around for me,” Hans breathed, helping Henry turn to his stomach. He prompted his ass up so that his pelvis was aligned perfectly with his backside. Hans slid down his pants to his knees, letting his hardness out finally. It was hard, red and already leaking. He gave himself a few soft pumps, groaning at the contact. He knew he was not going to last long, but Henry will surely forgive him. “Relax, love. If anything becomes uncomfortable, let me know immediately, will you?” Hans said softly as he positioned his dick right between Henry’s ass cheeks. He leaned down on him as he started grinding against him with soft grunts. He was slow at first, dragging his pleasure, savouring it. Henry groaned lowly beneath him, turning his head so he could look at Hans. His eyes were hooded in deep desire which consumed him. Hans reached for his hair, pulling it back softly. Henry groaned at the sensation, feeling his own dick twitch in anticipation. “Fucking hell, Henry… you’ll be my undoing… here, let me take care of you…” Hans said softly, kissing the back of his neck, down to his shoulder blades while his other hand snaked down to take him into his hand. He gave Henry a few soft pumps between his thumb and started teasing the leaking tip. Henry moaned deeply, his hips bucking into Hans’ hand.
“Good boy, show me what you like…” Hans mumbled against the scar on Henry’s back, kissing it and licking it lovingly. He felt a knot form in his stomach, he was not far from one of the strongest climaxes in his life. He bit his lip, speeding up his movements, humping Henry’s arse as a horny teenage boy. Hans hand caressed Henry’s muscular back, appreciating the strong form. “I won’t last long, my darling. I’ll make it up to you, promise,” he mumbled through gritted teeth as he felt his balls tighten with every stroke.
Hans groaned deeply, holding onto Henry’s hips with both hands as his groaning turned into a moan of Henry’s name. He pushed his hips harshly against Henry’s ass, finally pushing himself over the edge. The long ropes of ecstacy landed on Henry’s lower back. Hans panted and leaned on Henry’s back, trying to catch his breath. Henry groaned beneath him, taking himself in his hand and stroking himself like a madman. Hans groaned and stopped his hand, flipping him over back onto his back. “Not on my watch. I make love, this is not a quick loveless, needy fuck, come here,” Hans groaned as he positioned himself between Henry’s legs so that he was on an eye level with his needy cock.
Hans licked a long stripe along his erection, tracing the large vein which led to the top. One of his hands started caressing Henry’s full balls, while the other supported him on Henry’s thigh. Henry groaned, his eyes were glued to Hans as his hand went to his soft blonde hair, caressing it lovingly. “That’s it, your lordship, don’t stop… oh fuck! Hans, don’t stop!” he moaned deeply, throwing his head back. Hans felt proud of himself, that he made a man such as Henry moan like a needy girl. He took him into his mouth as far as he could before he gagged. He was sloppy as he sucked him off, licking, grazing it softly with his teeth. The wet noises were nothing but erotic as Henry felt himself coming near to his climax. “Hans watch out I…” he was not able to finish his own sentence as he came full force into Hans’ mouth. Hans didn’t mind, in fact he pushed Henry deeper, swallowing everything the blacksmith offered.
Hans let Henry’s cock out of his mouth with a wet pop and licked his lips, sitting up and looking at the man he loved. Henry was a sweaty mess, blissful expression painted on his face. “Look at you…” Hans hummed, cupping his cheek and kissing him. Henry groaned, his large hands exploring the lean body the noble had. His hands stopped at his arse, squeezing it and massaging it needily. Once they parted, Henry pressed his forehead to Hans’, “We need to get to that cabin as soon as possible… I don’t know how we managed to go on without making love for so long,” Henry panted and Hans grinned boyishly. “I agree, I was starting to go crazy,” he chuckled, kissing Henry’s neck. “We should train here more often, don’t you think?”
They spent the whole day at the secluded place that became a symbol of paradise. So much has changed between Hans and Henry, they won’t ever be able to come back from this. Hans felt and knew deep down that Henry was his true love, something he wanted his whole life. No wench, no other man could caress him, see him, kiss him, fuck him… like Henry of Skalitz can. As they packed and rode Pebbles back to Devil’s Den, Hans couldn’t stop thinking about how much he enjoyed the time they had for themselves. That’s what peace felt like. What a life with Henry felt like.
He would never let it go.
***
So take my hand, we'll disappear
To a pub that's not too far from here
Though I don't know you, and you don't know me
I just had to talk to you, you see
The arrogance, a foolish move
If you take a risk, your odds improve
See, you don't know me, and I don't know you
I'm not weird or queer, my aim is true
Everybody I know these days is boring me
Or ignoring me, but not you
- Take My Hand by Matt Berry <3