Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/103437.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Graphic_Depictions_Of_Violence, Rape/Non-Con, Underage
  Category:
      M/M
  Fandom:
      Real_Person_Fiction, NSYNC, Backstreet_Boys
  Character:
      Lance_Bass, Justin_Timberlake, JC_Chasez, Chris_Kirkpatrick, Joey_Fatone,
      Kevin_Richardson, Nick_Carter, Brian_Littrell, AJ_McLean, Howie_Dorough,
      Wade_Robson
  Additional Tags:
      Slavery, Alternate_Universe_-_Slavery, Prostitution, Cuddling_and
      Snuggling, Hurt/Comfort
  Stats:
      Published: 2010-07-25 Chapters: 4/? Words: 18282
****** Land of the Free and the Home of the Slave. ******
by jezebel
Summary
     The Legends of a King and his courtiers.
***** Prologue *****
In legend there are Kings that were evil who are vanquished by knights of pure
heart, and there are knights that are evil that are vanquished by men of true
strength but rarely are there tales of men who have both true strength and a
pure heart who also rule their empires. There is one such man in the legends
lost through our centuries that was a King with such power and strength, who
had courage and wisdom that surpassed his youth and told more about him than
any portrait ever could. It is this man and his courtiers that I shall write of
in these tales. This is the first time that these legends appear as more than
tales told of what it is to be a true King.
***** - Free Lance? *****
James Lance Bass stood silently in the corner of the courtyard and waited on
the cart along with the other 'goods and chattell' that had been sent as a gift
to his new master. He knew why he was here, it didn't matter that he was shy or
that his faith did not allow for this type of servitude, he had been born into
service and there he would remain for the rest of his natural life and due to
his looks he would serve out that time as a whore. He shuddered at the thought,
his previous master had not been a kind one and the recent bruises on his back
reminded him of their last encounter, his master, Lord of Mississippi had never
used him for anything other than beating but had taken much joy in telling him
that his new master would no doubt use him thoroughly. Now he had to wait to
see what was to become of him and how he would be used in the courts of
Orlando.
Rumours of a malicious and austere ruler in the Kingdom of Florida spread
through the slave ranks as they had travelled and now that they had arrived at
their final destination there was a sense of foreboding.
"Move it slaves. We have another two transits to unload with more worthy goods
than you." The man in charge said as he unloaded the carts. He was a large man,
built as if he were a soldier not a slave and he carried a heavy whip that the
slave did not like the look of as he followed the rest of the line out he
wondered what was to become of him and tried to hide his face by looking down
at the ground. Maybe if they did not notice him they would not send him to the
brothels and he would join the others in the fields.
"Wait!" Called a voice as the slaves continued to file out of the crowded cart
and onto the hard cobbles of the courtyard. Lance froze as he heard the voice
and wondered what a man with such a foreign accent was doing in this strange
land, maybe he would not be the only one that had travelled such a long way to
come here. Lance risked looking up to see the other man and noticed that he had
dark hair and eyes and looked so different from all those that he had ever met.
"There is one that is special among them." The dark man said, Lance could not
help but look up at the other slaves to try and see who it was he spoke of.
"I am sorry Master Joseph." The man with the whip began. "You know the rules
sir. Slaves are not to be left with you."
"It is not for me you impudent wretch. Do not forget yourself. I am still your
master." Lance wondered if this was the King that he had heard so many harsh
stories about, the big man certainly seemed to have a violent temper. "The King
grows weary and I believe that one among them may amuse him."
"Of Course Master." The man with the whip said, slightly taken aback at the
chastisement but hiding it well. "Which of them do you wish to take to his
majesty?"
"The albino." Joseph told him and the man with the whip approached Lance
quickly and pulled him out of the line, not worried when the slave winced at
the pulling of his already bruised and damaged limbs. Lance felt the man's hot
breathe on his face as he whispered to him.
"If the King doesn't want you I'll be sure to have you brought to the
barracks." The man said before pushing him toward Joseph, Lance stumbled and
fell to his knees only to find strong arms under his arms and pulling him up.
"You have no reason to bow to me." Joseph told him in a hushed tone. "I am not
your master, as he is not mine. Come, we must prepare you for his highness."
Lance felt a strong sense of fear wash over him as he knew that with those
words his fate was sealed, he was born as a slave and would die as one but
worse than that was the fact that he would live his life as not only a slave
but as a whore.
-------------------------
Lance was weary from his travels but was too scared not to follow the bigger
man as he followed him through the cobble stoned yard and into the cool stone
rooms at the back of the palace. He knew that they were entering slave quarters
from the shabby looking state of the rooms, if these had been palatial
apartments there would be hangings on the wall and furnishings would line much
wider corridors. Lance may be a slave but he was not stupid, it was just that
no one credited a slave with any knowledge.
"You are very quiet, have you no questions?" Joseph asked him as he turned,
surprised to see that the younger man was walking slowly and not looking at the
surroundings very much. He seemed almost resigned to almost any fate that they
dared to throw at him.
"My master did not permit me to question him my lord." Lance said, careful to
remember that while this man was not his master he still demanded respect, he
had done so with the overseer in the square. His humble answer was met with a
laugh.
"What's your name?" Joseph asked him, Lance shook.
"James Lance Bass, my previous master called me James." He said, he had loathed
the way that the man could turn even his name into a derogatory remark, it had
been his father's name and he had liked it until the other man had sullied it
with overture and innuendo.
"But I bet your friends call you Lance." Joseph said, Lance looked down at his
feet, Joseph felt his heart almost break as he realised that such a cruel
master probably did not allow bonds such as friendship to grow. "Perhaps we
shall call you Lance then."
"Sir...I..." Lance began, he looked up and there were tears in his eyes. Joseph
smiled, he had made a good choice of slave for the master. King Joshua had a
weak spot for those that had been trodden on by life, he felt some kinship with
them. "Thank you." Lance said softly, hoping that it would not earn him the
punishment that he was sure was coming. If the King was as he had been
described then he would need all of the friends that he could get.
"You have a question?" Joseph asked, Lance looked at him directly and then
opened his mouth.
"What am I to be?" He asked. Joseph smiled.
"Whatever his highness asks of you." Joseph said with a small smile, trying to
lessen the impact of his words. Lance nodded and then moved forward, the
conversation was over and he wanted to meet his fate while he could still
stand. Joseph allowed the silence and hoped that Joshua would bring more out of
the boy than he had been able to, or at least that the King would love him as
he deserved.
---------------------
Joshua sat in his study staring at the latest figures of tithes and taxes, he
was one of the richest rulers in the Kingdoms of the Americas and his hard work
was renowned but lately the business as usual mask that he hid behind was
slipping and he had begun to wonder if his life would ever be more than the
chores of duty and obligation. There had been a time when there was more in his
life, when Bobbie had been alive and he had been in love as much as a man ever
could be he had taken time out to enjoy life, now he had a son that was brought
up by a nursemaid and his wife was gone. She had given him the heir required of
her but died in the process and he was left to face the rest of his life alone.
Joshua was so lost in thought that he almost missed the knock when it came.
"Enter." He called as the pounding fist continued, no doubt they were
announcing yet another gift from some Lord or other that wished to gain his
favour, it was amazing what people would do when they heard that he was willing
to invest in other realms, he certainly had too much money for just his own
lands and those that he had conquered in Georgia and Alabama. The problem was
that he also had impressive armies and that meant that often people were
scared, stories had arisen that he was a harsh man and a wicked one when really
he only wanted to rule with truth and fairness.
"My Lord." Joseph said with a flourish as he entered, Joshua stared at him his
eyes glazing over. Sometimes he wondered why it was that he put up with this
man, it was not as if Joseph was his responsibility.
"What is it Joseph?" He asked with a sigh, ever since his bride had died the
man had been trying to find some new way of tormenting him and Joshua was
seriously considering banishing the man just so that he could get a moment's
peace.
"The new shipment came in this morning, a gift from Lord Jackson from
Mississippi." Joseph said. "I thought that you may wish to view some of the
merchandise first hand."
Joshua smiled as he thought over exactly why it was that this man was sending
him gifts. In the neighbouring states there was always talk of Joshua's need
for more land and that he was trying to unite the Kingdoms under his rule,
sending him gifts was one way they thought that they could influence him. It
rarely worked but it meant that his kingdom was rich with the best of
everything.
"Joseph, I tire of this. I am not interested in whatever trinket it is that
Marcus sent over. Frankly I bore with your constant irritations too." Joshua
said, his voice bordering on anger. Lance chose that moment to walk in behind
Joseph, he had been straggling behind and was not aware that he was not
supposed to have entered the chamber without Joshua's express permission.
"Lance..." Joseph said warningly, knowing that he ought to have spoken to him
before.
"No, let the man enter." Joshua said, suddenly paying attention. He was
intrigued by the blonde man that had half stumbled in to his room. Lance seemed
to have less formal training and he was definitely not one of the spoiled
slaves that was usually sent to him as a gift, it was almost as if Lance was
not trained for court at all and that interested Joshua. "Come closer, what is
your name?"
"I am James Lance Bass, my last master called me James." Lance said, he looked
at the surroundings and heard a gentle cough from Joseph and a look of abject
horror crossed Lance's face before he fell to his knees. "I'm sorry your
highness, I didn't know..." He began as the fear crept into his voice, Joseph
expected wrath but instead Joshua knelt next to Lance and stroked his back
gently telling him that it was okay and that he would not be punished. As soon
as the hand touched him Lance flinched and Joshua sat up.
"Joseph, shut the door." He said, not liking the tone in the King's voice
Joseph did just that and knew instinctively that he was to stay too. "Lance, I
want you to stand and remove your tunic." Joshua told him, Lance knew that this
was it, this was the time when he would begin his life as a whore. Not wanting
to incur the wrath of his new master anymore than he may have already he lifted
off his tunic which left him utterly naked, as a slave he was not allowed to
wear britches or short pants as other men in court did.
Joshua gasped as he saw the welts and bruises that littered the younger man's
back. Lance did not look much more than nineteen, only a few months as a slave
and he looked more scarred than a lot of the older soldiers in Joshua's army,
most of them were superficial but they spoke of untold torment and torture at
the hands of a cruel master. Lance trembled a little from fear and a little
from the coolness of the air against his skin, he knew that he must look a
state it had been days since he had bathed and his body was stuck with dry
blood, dirt from the road and sweat from his exertion in the long trek from
Mississippi. Maybe his new master would not want him and he would be sent out
to the fields, although judging by the look in the King's eyes that was not
going to happen.
"Who did this?" Joshua asked as he reached out a hand and gently touched an
area of skin that was not bruised. Lance shifted slightly but knew enough not
to run from his master's touch.
"Sire, It...It was my Master, Lord Jackson. I made him angry by disobeying his
orders. I needed to be punished." Lance said. Josh knew that it was the words
that he had been trained to say, he had heard them a number of times before and
this was not new, what was knew was to hear Lance almost defending his master,
he truly believed that it was his fault. Lance's insecurity and timidity was
endearing but also troubled Joshua.
"No one deserves this." Joshua said as he picked up the discarded tunic and
handed it back to Lance. "You may dress." He said. "I am sorry to cause you
embarrassment, next time you are not so clothed we will be alone." He said,
trying not to make the words sound too suggestive. "Joseph, take Lance out and
have his wounds seen to and make sure that he is fed and clothed then bring him
back to my chambers." He said.
"Yes My Liege." Joseph said as he showed Lance out of the door before moving to
follow him.
"Oh and Joseph." He said. "If you interrupt me again with something this
trivial I will see to it that you are punished." Joseph nodded solemnly and
then shut the door after them.
Joshua smiled. Maybe now that he had accepted what it was that Joseph was
trying to do the other man would stop, he felt something for Lance and even if
it was only a passing attraction he wanted to help the young slave. There had
been a pain in the boy's eyes that should not be there and he wanted to get rid
of it and help him. There was also the fact that the haunted green eyes
reminded him of his beloved. Maybe this would not be so bad after all.
----------------
Lance had been amazed by the small tour that Joseph had given him and the tales
he had been told, Joseph did not mention what his job was nor did Lance ask but
Joseph told him a little of the history of the man that he was to serve. King
Joshua had started his reign at the young age of 14, being married when he was
16 and a father at 17 his wife had died a year ago and now he was mourning her.
Lance was to be the King's first 'guest' since his wife's passing. Lance was
taken to a room that reminded him of the bathhouse that his previous master
infrequently used, the difference was that this one was private and not one
visited by several members of the public as he had seen Lord Jackson use.
Joseph spoke in hushed tones to the large man that stood to one side and then
he had indicated for Lance to go over.
Over the next hour Lance felt as if he were the King as he was washed, massaged
and after a little protest shaved until he felt cleaner than he had in a long
while. Joseph had used a balm on his bruises that took away the pain and the
few welts that he had were cleaned and covered. When he was finally ready he
stood in a tunic longer than the one that he had worn and wore shorts under it,
both were of the softest cotton and he was surprised that he was handed sandals
too. After he was dressed and clean he looked to Joseph apprehensively
wondering what his fate was to be.
"It's okay." Joseph said as they approached the chambers, coming back up the
same corridor that they had gone down. "Joshua is a fair master, he will not
punish you unless it is necessary."
"I fear it will be necessary often." Lance said. "Master Jackson said I was
spawned from the devil himself."
Joseph shook his head at the words. It seemed as if Lance was a lot more
vulnerable than he had first thought and he wondered if he had made the right
choice. As they were announced in the chambers by the King's royal bodyguard he
knew that this could backfire just as easily as succeed and he hoped that it
was not something that he would regret. He really did need to think before he
acted.
"That will be all Joseph." Joshua said as the man lingered longer than was
required and Lance hesitated by his side. "You may retire for the night, Lance
will keep me entertained."
Lance looked across to where the King lounged on a day bed that could easily
sit three people and was not surprised when he motioned for him to join him.
Hearing the click that meant that Joseph was gone and he was alone in here with
his master he stepped forward, reaching as he moved for the hem of his tunic,
his hands were met by Joshua's as he neared the bed.
"Not yet." Joshua said, his own voice tinged with a sense of trepidation.
"Let's talk first." Lance let out the breath he had been holding and agreed,
laying tentatively on the edge of the day bed. Joshua began to tell him some of
what Joseph had mentioned, about losing his wife and about being alone for so
long, Lance was surprised that his master was letting him in on all of it until
he heard the words.
"I am not looking to replace the Queen. Bobbie was my life, but Joseph is
right. It is time that I began to be more than the absent monarch that the
people of my lands are used to. I have not had anyone close for a while and I
have not been out in longer. I want you to be the person that helps me find
myself again." He said. "I want you to be my companion."
Lance didn't know if he was supposed to answer but when he felt a hand on his
own he held it and then allowed himself to be pulled closer. When he got into
Joshua's arms he could feel his eyes were wet with tears as he knew that he was
not going to end up a whore, the question was what would be expected of him and
how would he as a mere slave help the King?
------------------
The next few days flew by as Joshua began to enjoy life with a new passion,
Joseph saw the change in his King and was glad, Lance did not notice but he was
too busy enjoying the attention that was being lavished on him. There was
measurements for new clothes, those made from only the finest materials and in
the nicest colours and Joshua made it clear to others that Lance was to be
treated as more than a slave. He was allowed certain freedoms that other slaves
were not and Joshua had made it clear to him that there was a level of
responsibility with his position which others would expect from him.
"Lance, you are to be the companion of one of the most powerful leaders in the
country, people will expect certain things of you and in return you can expect
certain responsibilities and freedoms that other slaves do not have. For
example, freedom to move around the castle as Joseph has and a chance for an
education. I would like it if you decided to learn a new skill or two so that
you might be a more rounded companion."
Lance had gasped at that, his parents had taught him some rudimentary education
and he had hidden for a long time the fact that he could read or write as it
would have meant certain death as a slave who had no right to an education,
maybe now he could finally tell the truth.
"I read and write well." Lance admitted hesitantly. "I was taught as a child
but it has been a while. I learn quickly."
"Well then your education should be of court and of what it is to be a
gentleman." Joshua said. "It will be expected that you know how to behave in
court when you stand at my side as both friend and servant. Perhaps training
with a sword too, although I am not sure that the courtiers will be happy if I
arm a slave."
"I can fight." Lance said with a blush. "I was trained for the trials as a
child too." Joshua's gaze widened as he realised what Lance was saying, this
innocent had been trained so that he could fight as a gladiator, a sport that
was outlawed in the three provinces of his own kingdom. This meant that the
slave knew how to handle a sword too. So it was only the pomp and circumstance
of court that he needed to learn, still that would take a while.
"You will be presented to court next month." Joshua said. "We will make sure
that you are ready." He said and then he had left Lance with an ageing tutor.
The old man had begun to speak of greetings and ceremony and Lance had wondered
if this was all it meant to be a companion. Surely there was more to it than
ceremonies and appearances for the sake of the court.
-----------------
The build up to the big day was tense, Lance was measured for new robes, those
that would befit the companion of the King and spent a lot of time with both
his tutor and Joseph preparing for his inauguration into the inner circle of
high society. He knew how to shake hands with royalty and lords, he knew the
greetings of different states and the correct responses and he knew more than
he ever wanted to about polite topics of conversation and what he was to say.
Lance was a bag of nerves by the time the night of the ball that was to be held
in Joshua's honour where he was to be presented to the royal court. If it had
not been for his expected presence with Joshua he would have feigned illness,
but this was all the King had spoken of for weeks and he knew that his master
was looking forward to it. After all his highness had done for him surely Lance
could make one sacrifice.
There was first a long procession of people to greet, hands to shake and ladies
to flatter. Lance found the third to be the most arduous. Although he had often
admired the servant girls of the palace he had been raised to know that his
place was in the bed of his Master and not with some girl, not unless his owner
saw fit to breed him. It appeared as if all manner of Royalty had come out to
greet him and while he knew that they were really there to see if it was true
that King Joshua had taken a lover he felt like a side show spectacle by the
time all others had passed and had their fill of gawking at this man that the
King had accepted into his bed.
Lance found himself the guest of honour, sitting on the right hand side of the
King at the highest table. There was entertainment and revelry and Lance felt
as if he ought to be enjoying himself more than he was; he was so busy trying
to take it all in and remember all that he had learned of court that he almost
missed Joshua leaning over and kissing him. They had done very little together
but Joshua was always extremely affectionate but it was always in private. This
was the first public display of any such affections.
"They expect us to be involved." Joshua said as he reached down and pulled
Lance closer to him for a second kiss. "A few kisses and they will know how
important you are to me."
Lance was shocked, this was the first time that Joshua had spoken of feelings,
at least those toward him. Lance leaned a little closer to the King and allowed
himself to be kissed, enjoying the sensation of any lips on his. When Joshua
pulled away he realised that a lot of those around him had stopped their
conversation to watch, or merely gaze in surprise. It was apparent that some
people did not believe he had taken a slave as his companion, it was perfectly
legal, normal in fact to have a slave as a companion or bed warmer but he had
always sworn only to love his wife. Now he felt not the same level of love but
a slight burning of affection in his stomach and he wondered if that would be
enough for Lance.
"My Lord. People are staring." Lance whispered to him with mortification, Josh
knew that they were not bothered by his sexuality but that it was something
Lance had problems with. His response was a gentle laugh as he ruffled Lance's
spiked hair. Placing a gentle kiss on his companion's cheek Josh turned to the
crowds and stared at one of the musicians who immediately began to play a
jaunty piece, a few of the courtiers and some of the other royals got up to
dance. Joshua reached out his hand and Lance took it and the two sat in silence
as they watched the people dancing.
A few songs went by, some more people joined them on the floor and others sat
down when they were tired. Lance knew that he and the King were expected to
stay in their seats of which he was glad, he was never much of a dancer and it
was one of the few things that his education had not covered.
Halfway through the fifth song Lance observed a man entering the room, he was
not as well dressed as the other courtiers and was wearing riding boots still
coated in the light dust from the road. The crowd parted as he strode in and
Lance wondered who this man was. The most worrying thing was that he noticed
that the man carried a sword in front of the King, not only that but it was
visible. Lance knew a little of the laws of court and to enter another man's
castle visibly armed was an offence punishable by death, even in Joshua's lands
where other barbaric laws were ignored it would be upheld because above all
else protecting the King was paramount.
"My Lord." The man greeted as he stood at the table, another violation all
courtesans, servants, slaves and even minor courtiers were to bow in the King's
presence, this man met his eye and did not flinch, even when there were a few
gasps at his appearance and attitude. Joshua watched the crowd and wondered why
it was that they still reacted this way, they knew full well what was going on
and that this man in particular had complete freedom in his lands.
"Take a seat Old Man." Joshua said as he indicated the seat at his left, the
side normally reserved for a wife, as the stranger took his seat Lance noticed
Joseph coming through the crowds, he bowed gently to Joshua and then went to
the other man, kneeling at his feet. This caused a small commotion and even the
band stopped playing. Joshua laughed a little and then made a dismissing motion
with his hand.
"Continue." He said with a slight flourish of the same hand. He then leaned in
to Lance who seemed a little confused by the whole occurrence. He was about to
speak when a louder voice interrupted.
"So it is true. I was up in Ole' Miss when I heard. Had to come back to see if
it was true." Lance flinched at the familial name of the province which had
once been his home. "So boy, what is your name."
"Lance, this is Lord Christopher." Joshua said, sitting back so that his friend
and companion could greet each other. "Chris, this is my companion Lance Bass."
Lance looked up to see the man that looked a little older than Joshua but just
as handsome, he was sure that he knew the names of most of the Aristocracy in
Mississippi and he did not remember a Lord Chris. He had learned a lot of the
names of those within Joshua's realms too and again there was no Lord
Christopher in their ranks.
"It is a pleasure to meet you Lord Christopher, Sir." Lance said as he averted
his eyes as a show of respect. This was met with a chuckle from his lordship
and a wry smile from the King.
"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you too Lance. There is no need for the 'Lord'
though, or the 'Sir'. I'm no more a Lord than you are, it's just a piece of
paper." Chris said. Lance did not understand but he was not about to ask,
questioning was impertinent and that was something he would never be accused of
again, he would just wait for it to be explained to him.
After a few more dances, or rather watching a few more, Joshua made excuses and
left, gesturing that Lance follow. Much to his surprise and obviously that of
some of the court Joshua held Lance's hand as they left, a sign that they were
more lovers than Master and Slave. Once they were back in Joshua's chambers
Lance helped his Master undress and then turned to leave. He felt a hand on his
shoulder stilling him.
"Stay." Joshua said, his voice more a request than an order. Lance turned and
saw the strained look on the King's face and took off his own tunic. The pair
lay together, wearing only their shorts and talking softly until they fell into
a deep sleep.
--------------------
Lance slept well and woke up alone in the vast bed, surrounded by the plush
pillows of silk and satin that were befitting of a King. He panicked a little
as he wondered what it was that he was doing there alone. He was supposed to
accompany Joshua when he went to the bath house and be at his side, it was
obvious that the King had gone and left him and he was sure that this meant he
had displeased his highness.
Lance stood and pulled on the clean tunic that had been laid out for him and
went out to the main rooms, he just hoped that the King was there and that the
punishment for his lack of obedience was not too harsh.
"I'm sorry I overslept, my liege." Lance said as he entered the room, Joshua
was not alone and for the first time Lance was glad that he had remembered to
use the official title, he was allowed to call the monarch by his given name in
private but there was someone else with him today and he did not wish to anger
his Master more than he most likely had already.
"It's okay Lansten, don't worry so much." Christopher said, using the nickname
that no one had used before, in truth Lance quite liked it. "Josh and I were
just talking about some business, I was the one that woke him so early, I
forgot that he had a reason to stay in bed a little longer these days."
A blush spread across Lance's cheeks as the words were spoken which brought a
hearty chuckle from Lord Christopher. He was sure that there was very little
sexual contact between the two but it was something that he had not known for
certain until he had seen the companion's cheeks redden. Joshua smiled kindly
to Lance and indicated that the slave take the seat next to him, they were in
private after all and he was not one that stood on ceremony.
"Lance, you are welcome to sleep in as long as you like." Joshua explained,
"Unless there is some task that you have to deal with." Lance's eyes widened as
he wondered what task his master meant until he remembered that he had classes
and such matters, surely that was all the King had meant.
"So, we were just talking about what we were going to do about Marcus." Chris
said, as he wanted to get back to business, Joshua's full attention had been
drawn away from the map by his companion but Chris wanted to get it done as
soon as possible as he had his own companion waiting in his chambers for him.
Joshua turned his attention back to the plans and Chris had to give Lance
credit, the lessons were obviously paying off because it took a skilled eye to
see that the slave was tense at the mention of his former master. Chris
wondered if Lance knew why it was that Joshua was thinking of fighting what
could be a lengthy and expensive war. Joshua was not really capable of loving
Lance, not when his heart still belonged to a long dead woman, but he could
make up for the appalling conditions that Lance and no doubt countless other
slaves had been kept in. That was what he planned to do and he was going to do
it with the full strength of his armies.
-------------------
***** Settling in, Moving on. *****
The next few weeks Lance found that he was always alone, he had taken to
sleeping in the King's chambers after the banquet as it was expected of him but
Joshua was hardly ever there to notice. Lance found that Joseph reappeared
after a few days and together they would explore the castle, Joseph explained
some of the finer details of activities going on around the castle and the pair
became good friends.
Lance also began to discover the other 'tasks' that the King expected of him.
Joseph introduced him to other men that were lesser generals, landed gentry of
no great importance and servants of the castle and Lance was beginning to
realise that they often looked to him for advice or permission. He undertook
the task with the honour he was sure would befit the position and the men were
glad of his help, with his guidance crops increased and there was less dissent
amongst the slaves. Many of them could see why the King had chosen this gentle
but intelligent man as his companion and many could also see the aesthetic
reasons for it too.
It was almost two weeks since he had seen Joshua for anything other than sleep
and Lance was wondering if his lordship was going off of him, Joseph was scarce
that night as he explained that he had work to do (although he was not
forthcoming with information over what the work was) and so Lance returned to
the chambers expecting to eat yet another meal alone. He was surprised
therefore to find Joshua already seated and waiting for him.
"My Apologies my liege, I did not know that you were going to be here tonight."
Lance said as he looked despairingly at the drab day clothes he wore, he had
some much livelier tunics and he was sure that one of those would have pleased
the King more than the rags that he wore.
"It's okay Lance, I am the one that ought to be apologising for neglecting you
so, I thought that we could eat together and then get an early night." Josh
said, the overtone of what he meant clear in his voice.
He had missed his slave, not only the cuteness of his face but the constant
companionship of having him at his side and the warmth of the man in his bed.
Christopher was his oldest friend but Lance was the one that understood the
pain that he felt at the depths of his soul and it was that kind of bond that
he had so craved. Chris was his man at arms but Lance was his companion, the
two purposes did not mix and were not interchangable.
"My Lord." Lance said with a gentle bow, Josh pulled Lance to him and held him
close, knowing that he would not be able to make love to him but that he could
hold him all the same. He did love his companion, with more than a deep respect
or a friendship but his heart had never really healed after his ladylove died
and he was not able to reacquiant himself with those feelings with Lance.
"Let's eat." Josh said as he let go of his companion and allowed him to sit, he
was troubled by the growing frustration he felt at not being able to express
his feelings. Maybe he ought to let Lance go free, surely that would be the
better thing to do.
----------------
Lance was more than happy at the fact that his Master seemed more attentive,
Josh was around more after their meal and had spent some time talking with him
about what had been happening around the castle. The king was pleased that his
companion had undertaken some of the more rudimentary tasks that had bored him
as a ruler and was dealing well with the pressures of court. There were gifts
too as Josh became more devoted to his companion. There were books that Lance
had not read, choice selections of sweets and delicacies to choose from and all
manner of things that would spoil a less humble man. Lance did not know what he
had done to please his master nor did he know that the gifts were more to
assuage his Master's guilt but he was content to live as he had without pain or
hardship.
Life in the palace was good and continued for several weeks with little
upheaval, the courtiers were content with how things were and were getting used
to having a second person to take orders from again. King Joshua was making
more appearances than he had and had reinstated the public dinners that had
once been so popular. Lance was readily accepted at his side and he too began
to have a regular schedule of meetings and audiences so that people could come
to him for the guidance they would expect from a man of court. Despite his
origins as a slave he was readily accepted into the Kingdom as both the King's
companion and his confidant; this meant that suddenly his opinions mattered and
he was allowed to use the education that he had been forced to deny for such a
long time.
Lord Christopher had disappeared off again on some new mission for the King,
there had been whispers of it around the castle for a number of days after his
departure but no one had spoken with Lance directly on the matter so he did not
know where the other man was. Joseph was again there to help him take on the
burden of his jobs and for a time things continued to remain the same, it was a
life that Lance enjoyed and he had nothing to worry about.
It was only when Lord Christopher returned that the problems began. It was not
an immediate problem, Lance was used to the King's worse moods and this had
started out in the same way but when it had been a week with no reprieve from
his Master's sorrow and grief he began to worry, not for himself but for the
man he had come to know as more than his friend. Lance was sure that it was not
his place to discuss it but he found himself outside Lord Christopher's
quarters late one night after the drunken King had gone to sleep despite his
best efforts to remain awake for just a few more hours.
Lance knocked twice on the large Oak doors, having already sent the extra
guards away for the privacy that this conversation required. He waited
patiently and was about to leave when the door opened widely and Lord
Christopher came out, dressed in his tunic and full court regalia.
"Oh, it's you." He said, almost relieved. "Well then, I suppose you had better
come in." He said as he checked the corridor, as if checking that Lance had not
been followed.
Lance went in meekly, flinching as he heard the loud door slam behind
Christopher. He wondered what price his concern would cost if he was caught in
another man's room after curfew. Joshua did not like it but it made sense that
all slaves slept at certain times, so they were confined to quarters between 11
and 6, this was definitely after that time. Christopher motioned for Lance to
sit down as he lit he lantern in the main room and then took a seat himself.
"So, what brings you to my quarters this late at night?" Christopher asked
carefully. "You do know that being caught out after curfew is a whipping
offence, even in Joshua's Kingdom."
Lance looked at the floor and swallowed as he took in the words, but he had
come here for a reason and he needed to get it done with, damn the
consequences. He had taken a whipping before for much less and at least this
may have some benefits to the King.
"I am worried for my Master, my lord." Lance said, hoping that the respect
would win his Lordship over. "He is drinking heavily and sleeps all day." Lance
said. "He does not appear his usual self either."
"It's not your fault Lansten." Chris said with a sigh as he thought over what
the slave had told him and what he knew of Joshua's past. "And it's not
something that can be helped."
"What vexes him?" Lance asked.
"It's an old pain…" Chris said, not sure how much he should tell. "You must
have heard of the young Queen, well it is the anniversary of her death this
week, he mourns her each year at this time and loses himself for a week or two
before he returns to normal." He explained. "No one questions it and no one
troubles him at this time."
"I am sorry for disturbing you my Lord." Lance said as he realised that he had
come here without due cause. "I will accept any punishment that you think I
deserve."
"Well then, I think that spending as much time as possible with your Master and
not telling him of this little visit is in order." Christopher said with a
smile as he stood to let the slave out. As he opened the door he saw that the
slaves which Lance had obviously sent away were now back in place. "Ah, good."
He said directly to one of them, the lieutenant that disliked him looked up but
had a stern look on his face.
"Sir?" He asked gruffly.
"Would you escort this man to the King's chambers?" He asked. "We had a meeting
which ran late and I fear that he may get caught out by a patrol otherwise,
wouldn't want him punished for my lack of dilegence would we?" He asked, the
soldier did not respond, instead he indicated that Lance walk in front of him
and he would follow.
"What did he want?" A sleepy Joseph asked as he walked from the bedroom,
wrapped in the linens from Lord Christopher's bed.
"I think he's just worried for the King." Chris said as he returned to his
bedroom and beckoned for Joseph to join him, the other man went to the Lord and
helped him strip down before joining him in bed.
"That boy will get his heart broken." Joseph said haughtily as he pulled the
blankets around him to sleep. Christopher sighed, thinking back to a time once
before and then kissed Joseph's temple.
"He would not be the first slave to fall in love with the man that owns his
life." Christopher said, his voice reflective, almost sad. "I pray he does not
get hurt as others have."
But Joseph was already asleep and was not listening, just as he had always
done, he ignored Christopher in sleep as well as in his waking. Christopher
sighed and settled in for the night but he found that sleep was an elusive prey
that night and he could not help but worry what the next few days had in store
for young Lance.
------------------
Lance's nocturnal visit to Lord Christopher did not go unnoticed by the King
and he was sure to ask the young lieutenant that he had seen escorting his
companion back that he was to be woken immediately if it happened again. Joshua
did not punish Lance for his misdemeanour however, nor did he tell Lance that
he knew of the indiscretion. Instead he knew that it was time to take action
about the boy that had obviously grown very attached to him.
Joshua had not fallen for Lance, he cared for him deeply that was for certain
but he could not spend the rest of his life with the man because he had once
pitied him or because he reminded him a little of his ex-wife. It was not fair
to him and it was certainly not fair on a man like Lance, not when the boy
deserved so much more than he could give him. Of course Joshua could give him
material wealth in bucket loads, he could give him the biggest jewels and the
softest beds, the finest satins and the most expensive trinkets but none of it
would be as significant as the love that he was unable to bestow on his
companion. Lance deserved the chance to love someone that would return his
feelings and Joshua wanted to give him that chance, however there was more than
Joshua's feelings at stake.
There was a problem in that Lance had been accepted by his people, Joshua knew
why because he was not only beautiful but had a business mind unlike anyone
else he had known in his 25 years. Lance explained taxes to peasants that
refused to pay them, dealt with landowners that harmed their tenants and mixed
with aristocrats that would not deal with any other slaves. He was a legend
amongst the slaves and got them and the rest of the people of the lands to work
harder, produce more and thus enjoy more of the bounty. In short he was the
monarch, or companion to the monarch that Joshua's lands needed, the only
problem was that he was not the love of the King's life.
"Penny for your thoughts." Christopher said as he saw his sovereign looking out
into the sunset, he had gone to look for his lordship when the servants told
him that the man had been missing all day. Christopher knew where to find him,
the slaves knew that he would. The pair had grown up in similar surroundings
and Joshua made his hideaway in a place that only Chris could find. It had been
a problem for his father, the former monarch, when he disappeared. Back then
Chris had always been on hand to find the wayward heir, now he was performing
the same duties for the wayward monarch.
"You could not afford them." Joshua said playfully, an old joke between the
two.
"Try me." Christopher said in reply. "I've come into some money since I last
asked." This was a new response and it actually brought a smile to the
otherwise sad king. Chris always could make him smile, although after Bobbie's
death there was a time when Joshua thought that he would never smile again.
"It's Lance. The people love him, the courtiers love him, the rest of the
monarchs loved him and yet I can't seem to." Joshua said. "He deserves so much
more than this and yet I have tied him down to me in a loveless, sexless union
which will last for the rest of his lifetime."
"And he is falling for you." Christopher added, as if it was not hard enough on
Josh already. Still, he supposed this was why he kept his friend so close.
Despite his role as King Chris never gave him any lies or half truths.
"What would you do?" He asked, realising only after he had spoken the words
that this was not the person to be asking.
"Take him out in the city. Visit some of the clubs you used to frequent as a
young King and use the identity that you threw away so casually. Give him some
fun and maybe find someone else to love him." Chris said.
"What then?" Joshua asked, his eyes twinkling at the thought of going to the
dance clubs, the strip clubs and the other places that he was not supposed to
go to but had done so all the same in his youth.
"Then you deal with it as only you can." Chris said cryptically. He did not
want to give the man all of the answers, after all Joshua was the King and this
would only work if the idea appeared as if it was his own. Christopher stood
and held out a hand for his ruler, Joshua took it and let himself be pulled up
to standing. They argued when Chris offered him his horse and Joshua refused.
"You rode out here, I walked. It's hardly fair for me to expect you to walk
back." Joshua reasoned. "I'm the fool that came this far alone and on foot."
"And I am the fool that serves you, my liege." Christopher said. He took the
reigns and made it clear that he expected Josh to get on and he would lead the
horse. "You know that protocol does not permit us to ride together and if I
were to ride with you at my feet…" He said, leaving the rest of it trailing
behind. Joshua sighed and swore about etiquette, sometimes it was stifling
being the King.
-----------------------
Lance was confused when he saw Joseph rushing towards him, the other man rarely
interupted his conferences unless it was important and yet he was here, a wide
smile on his face and not paying any attention to the overseer that Lance was
currently talking to about his harsh treatment of the slaves.
"Joseph?" Lance asked as the other man came in and leaned over, coming close so
that he could whisper in his ear.
"I heard a rumour that Lord Scott is in town." Joseph said with a small smile.
Lance looked at him blankly and the other man frowned.
The overseer that was with Lance had obviously heard and his reaction was
priceless, one of curiosity and awe. Not only because he had heard rumours of
the sybaritic Lord Scott but because he had also not seen Joseph before, there
were rumours too about this man but they were not ones that were repeatable
around the castle for fear of retribution. Joseph may be a slave but he was
favoured by the King and to speak ill of him would certainly lead to the type
of punishment that was only rumoured to occur amongst slaves of Joshua's lands.
"My Lord?" The overseer asked, clearly questioning Lance. Lance shooed Joseph
off to one side and turned his attention back to the matters at hand.
"So you will not use a whip without consulting the owner first." Lance said,
summing up what he had said previously while seeking to bring this meeting to a
close so that he could move on to other matters. "And you are not to geld
slaves without the crown's permission."
"Yes My Lord." He said, a slight bow.
"Now leave us and pray that I do not have to see you again." Lance said, hoping
that the severity of his tone would be enough. Part of the job that Lance hated
most was having to punish those under him, after all he was a slave too, who
was he to dole out punishments? Yet he had found out that it was part of his
task as the King's companion and he took that role seriously even if it meant
having to do the more unsavoury tasks, if it meant that he got to stay safe and
curl up in Joshua's arms each night then he would take the rough with the
smooth.
"I'm sorry, Sir." Joseph said as he moved back to the centre of the room, there
was a playful tone in his voice as he used the title.
Lance rolled his eyes and indicated that Joseph took a seat. It was not the
first time that the two of them had sat here and discussed matters of state.
Joseph had a strange role in the palace and didn't really have any set tasks to
complete but he was invaluable when it came to helping Lance out. Joseph had
obviously been trained in matters of court as Lance had been and was a wealth
of knowledge in the area as well as giving a second perspective on many issues.
"So, who is Lord Scott and what does this have to do with me?" Lance asked,
wondering if this was yet another lesser aristocrat that he would have to meet
with.
"You mean he hasn't told you?" Joseph asked. "Oh my…"
"Told me what?" Lance asked innocently.
Just as Joseph was about to speak the doors to Lance's meeting room swung open,
only just stopping short of banging the walls they stood on.
"Lord Scott." Joseph said with a bow, Lance looked up to see his lord and
master dressed in different clothes and with a dusting of make up that made him
appear larger than life. There was a brush of gold on each cheek that made him
glow as if he were an angel and he wore clothes of the finest leather and silk
which in combination appeared decadent but impressively so.
Somehow Joshua did not look like the monarch of three large states, he was more
akin to a dilettante lord who squandered his money and had no business at court
save to further his own joys. Lance had to say that it was a changed look for
him and one that the King seemed to carry off well.
"My Lord?" Lance asked, wavering a moment before moving to the King's side. No
matter what others said this was Joshua. He would stake both his reputation and
his life on it. How the other members of court did not see it Lance was
confused.
"Hush Lance, don't give the game away." Joshua said quietly. A little louder he
added. "Ah, so this is the companion that our Lord has told me so much about.
King Joshua tells me that you have seen little of his Kingdom. That is
something that we shall have to rectify immediately."
Lance was not too sure what was going on so he decided to wait it out.
"Joseph, tell Lord Christopher that I thank him for his kind offer of dinner
with him and the King but that I feel it my duty to teach young Lance here
something about the social side of court. I feel that my friend the King has
neglected his companion's teachings, although I would thank you not to tell the
monarch that."
Joseph bowed and then left the two alone, knowing that Joshua's order had also
been a veiled order to leave them alone. Lord Christopher would be the alibi
for the night. The King and he were to have a private dinner and discuss their
plans for Mississippi, however while Christopher was alone in his chambers the
King would be out as Lord Scott.
"My liege, what manner of parlour trick is this?" Lance asked, he felt Joshua
take his hand and then bring it to his lips, kissing it gently before releasing
it again.
"We are courting." Joshua said. "Lord Scott is an illusion I created in my
youth to be allowed the freedoms that any other young man should have. I was
tired of the rigidity of court and wished for a few more nights of joviality.
The life of a King is suffocating. Joshua is having dinner with Christopher
tonight so Lord Scott is free to take you out. I thought you might enjoy seeing
some of the city, you have been stuck in this castle for too long."
Lance did not even pretend to understand what was going on but he did have to
admit that it would be good to leave the boundaries of the castle that had
become his gilded cage. Especially with his Master at his side.
Maybe they would find something in the city that would interest them both;
maybe even someone. Lance blushed at the thought wondering when he had become
so candid about his sexuality, not only was he considering sexual gratification
but a menage a trois. That was not how he would have thought before coming to
Joshua's lands.
Lance followed Joshua out into the hall and back towards their suite where
Joshua had already picked him a strange leather outfit for Lance to wear that
night. He was excited to get out of the castle but also apprehensive, not sure
what to expect from the trip. He wasn't prepared for what did take place.
---------------------
The club that Lord Scott had chosen for them was decadence reified. It had just
enough flamboyance without being too gaudy. Lance had never seen anything like
it, he had led a very sheltered life in the country and hadn't been into a city
so it was amazing for him.
"You like?" Joshua asked, leaning in close as he held Lance close. Joshua
placed a kiss on Lance's cheek and then took him in to the club, skipping the
queue and walking straight in.
"It's…" Lance tried as he took in the club, but he was speechless.
There was scantily clad boys and girls serving drinks and dancers on podiums
and in cages, the music was loud and pumping and Lance could not help but get
pulled into the atmosphere. As Joshua saw the smile that spread on Lance's face
he too was smiling, he knew that this was the right idea. Now all he needed to
do was find someone that Lance liked and they could invite him over for a drink
or something.
Lance spent the next hour or so taking it all in, watching as various
performers took the stage and went through their acts. Joshua spent more time
watching Lance than actually watching the men and women on the stage. It was
not until the end of the evening that Joshua's interest was piqued though.
"Tonight for your entertainment we have the final sale of the International
Slaves." The commentator for the evening said. "First up we have the boy
wonder, a dancer here at own club and known for his abilities on the podium as
well as in the bedroom, I give you…Wade Robson."
Lance looked up at the exotic beauty that had taken the stage and his jaw fell
as he took in the beauty of the other man. Wade looked a few years younger than
Lance, but was well toned and buff. Lance could definitely see that this
specimen would get a decent price and in some ways he felt a little jealous, a
lot of the patrons of the club were wealthy bachelors that would no doubt
lavish attention and affection on the young slave. Lance wondered if he would
also get the sex that Lance himself was not getting. He was certainly good
looking enough.
Joshua too had his eye on the young man that was on stage, he had a presence
similar to a Lord would have and yet he was obviously not of royal descent.
This good looking boy was nothing more than a slave and yet he so obviously had
the potential to be so much more, just as he had seen it in Lance, Joshua saw
an untapped source of energy within this boy.
"Come one, come all. Step up and take a look at this fine specimen, a virgin in
the ways of men but a willing pupil in everything." The compere said.
This got Joshua's attention. The boy was a virgin, a little shy of his own raw
potent sexuality and that would make him a perfect partner for Lance. His
companion definitely seemed taken by the dark haired boy.
"Who'll start the bidding?"
"Five hundred dollars." Came a shout from the front, obviously one of the
lesser patrons that had not gotten one of the better tables. He was laughed at
by a few of the other men that knew that this boy would reach a lot more than
that.
"Eight hundred." Came a second shout.
"We're talking ownership, not one night with the boy." The compere chastised
lightly so that he could build a rapport with the audience and hopefully build
up the bidding to a profitable price.
"Two thousand." A third voice put in, this time it was a well mannered
gentleman.
"What are they doing?" Lance asked curiously.
Lance had never really seen a slave auction before. He was not aware of this
type of 'meat market', where he came from slaves were traded not auctioned.
Mind you, where he came from there were a lot of different customs that did not
hold up in Joshua's kingdom.
"Shhh…" Joshua said, placing a gentle kiss on his companion's lips to hush him.
By now the bidding was serious, two richer men were placing large amounts on
the table and were obviously prepared to pay it.
"Seven thousand."
"Seven and a half."
"Eight thousand."
Joshua eyed the two, one was a well known brothel owner, only dealing in
consenting boys he obviously thought that this boy could be trained to suit his
customers, the other was a man that Joshua knew of only by reputation. He was
from out of state and had a taste for pretty boys, unfortunately in his hands
they did not stay pretty for very long. He was overzealous with a whip and
known for his short temper.
"Ten thousand." The out of towner said, the brothel man back down, a small
smile on his face and Joshua wondered if he was actually selling the boy and
had just been bumping up the prices. Not that this was legal in his state, but
as Lord Scott it was not his juristiction.
"Twenty thousand." Joshua announced. Causing a hush to fall across the entire
room.
"Well now, I have a serious bid at the back of the room for twenty thousand
dollars. Any final bids?" The compere asked, but he was almost certain that no
one would outbid the generous lord. Especially if they knew who he was. Lord
Scott had a reputation for being a man that you did not mess with and as a
friend of the King it was almost certain that the reputation was one that would
be upheld.
As Joshua stepped forward the hush picked up into light whispers and there was
an awe as a few select people recognised the man that had been out of their
Kingdom for a long while. Rumour had it that he had been exiled by the King but
that was obviously untrue. If the King had sent him into exile then there was
no way he could have returned, no one would mess with King Joshua like that. No
one would be able to cross the King of their Kingdom and survive. Joshua was
known as a fair man but if you did break one of his laws then you were punished
severely.
The boy, Wade, shivered slightly as he heard the gavel strike that signalled
that he had been sold. He stood frozen on the stage. Rather than ordering him
to be chained or taken down, Joshua stepped onto the stage and reached out to
stroke the boy's face.
Wade did not flinch as the hand came to his cheek and caressed him. He knew
better than that. Nor did he pull away when Joshua pulled him forward, kissing
him lightly and then taking the collar that was around his neck and unlatching
it. All while he appeared, from the point of view of the audience, to be
inspecting his new property. What Joshua was really doing was checking that his
new acquisition was not damaged in any way and undoing the collar that he hated
to see marking such beautiful skin.
"Would you like him delivered?" The slave master asked softly as the auctioneer
spoke loudly about the next bid.
Joshua shook his head, reaching for a large cloak that he wore and wrapping it
around the scantily clad boy. He felt protective of Wade already and he was not
even sure if Lance would accept him as a lover. Joshua thought that if Lance
did not want the boy that he may take him for himself, at least if Wade grew
into the man that he had the potential to be.
Still, if Wade could be at least a companion for Lance then he would have
partially succeeded, the seeds of love could be planted between the two or it
could be merely a physical release. Either way they would both be getting what
they deserved - someone to share the passions and pleasures of life with.
"My Lord?" Wade asked slightly confused as he felt the warm cloak wrapped
around his shoulders and an arm settled around his waist. This was not what he
had expected at all. This man was treating him as if he was a fragile porcelain
doll, not a slave that was to be used for the man's pleasure.
Joshua waited until he had steered the slave a good distance away and up to the
table that he had shared with his companion before he spoke. Knowing that Lance
too would have a number of questions. Judging by the look on his companion's
face Lance thought that he was being replaced.
"Have a seat, Wade, is it?" Joshua said softly. The last thing he wanted to do
was scare the boy any further.
"Yes, My Lord." The slave replied, sitting on the edge of the seat that his
master had directed and wondering why he was being treated this way. He had
expected a club or a brothel, not a private owner, and certainly not one that
would be this confusing.
"Wade, I am Lord Scott. This is a friend of mine, Lance, he is the King's
personal companion." Joshua said. "Lance has a highly stressful position at the
palace, it will be your job to see that he does not work too hard and that he
takes time out of his busy schedule to relax."
Wade seemed a little shocked, this was not at all what he had expected. He had
been groomed for service from an early age, but not service of a clerical role.
Was that what this man was asking him to do?
"My Lord. I do not understand." Lance said, the hurt clear in his eyes too.
Both of them seemed to misunderstand what he was saying so he tried to say it
in a way that they would understand.
"Perhaps I did not make myself clear." Joshua said, trying to keep his tone
hard as he did not want an argument in this place. "Wade is to be your
assistant, but more than that your friend."
"My Lord." Lance said with a slight bow of his head.
Joshua's heart melted slightly as he saw the tension between the two. It was
obvious that there was some level of sexual tension between them and a certain
degree of confusion as they both battled like fish out of water to understand
what was to become of them. Joshua leaned closer to Lance and caressed his ear
with his lips.
"And if something more should come of it that would be okay too." Joshua said
as he caressed his companion. Keeping his touches light and teasing but drawing
some arousal from the younger slave.
When he pulled back Joshua was amused to see that Wade too had seemed
interested in their interaction and was blushing slightly at what he had
witnessed.
"My Lord?" A voice asked.
Joshua looked up and saw the man from before. The one that he had bid against
in order to acquire Wade for himself and in doing so save him from this man's
cruelty.
"I wondered if I might congratulate you on your acquisition and if I may ask
the name of the man that outbid me for such a beauty." The man continued.
Joshua could see the way that Wade flinched as the man eyed him hungrily.
Joshua did not want this man anywhere near his new purchase or his companion.
In fact if he had a reason to he would have the man permanently ejected from
his Kingdom.
"If I am not mistaken you are Lord Vaughn." Joshua said.
He prided himself on knowing all of the lesser lords of the Kingdom, especially
those with hereditary titles that he could not revoke without good reason or
those who would seek overthrow him. The other man nodded.
"I feel at a loss." The other man said. "It appears you know me and yet I was
unaware of you owning land in these regions, I have certainly not seen you at
the Palace for social engagements."
Joshua smiled, it was clear that Lord Vaughn felt put out by this interloper in
his territory and was looking for some way to make himself feel better. Those
that did not own land were seen as lesser in some respects, they had no estate
or money and were Lords in name alone. Some made their money in business but
were still frowned upon because they were not of blue-blood stock.
"That is not to be expected. You are right, I do not own land in this area."
Joshua said, watching the man smile. Lance saw this and caressed Wade's hand
absently, making Joshua smile. Lance was already trying to comfort the other
man and they had known each other bare minutes, perhaps he had made the right
choice after all.
"The King does not allow his emissaries and representatives to hold land. It
would take too much of their attention away from the matters of state which it
is their job to uphold." Lance supplied, causing Joshua's smile to widen.
As expected Lord Vaughn's attentions turned to Lance.
"And who might you be?" The man enquired haughtily.
"This is his highness' companion, Lord James." Joshua supplied, confusing Lance
a little as he had never been referred to as a Lord, he was a slave, surely
that was not possible. A slave could not hold a title or own land because of
their station in life.
"Forgive my intrusion." Lord Vaughn said, suddenly paling. "Is his Highness
with you?"
"Unfortunately not." Joshua added cooly. "He had urgent matters of state to
attend to, and alas we too must be going. Lord Christopher is expecting us for
supper and only a fool would upset the King's man at arms."
Joshua stood, holding out a hand for Wade and Lance followed, striding
alongside Joshua as if they were equals, for a brief moment he thought that
they were. When they got outside a carriage was already waiting. The King's
guard had discreetly been watching from a distance for the whole evening and
knew every move that the King, posing as Lord Scott, had made.
As soon as they were in the carriage Joshua burst out laughing and a moment
later Lance joined him.
Wade was confused.
"My Lord?" Wade asked softly.
Wade wondered what was wrong and considered that they may have imbibed too much
liquor. Joshua heard the worried tone and tried his best to calm himself enough
that he looked sober. There was something important that they had to sort out
before they reached the castle and people would again know him as King Joshua.
"Wade, from now on it is important that you address me as My liege." Joshua
said. "I am sure that Lance will explain it to you later, but for the moment
can you do that?" Joshua asked seriously.
Wade eyed the man for a moment and then paled significantly. He tried to sink
to his knees but it was not working in the cramped carriage space.
"Forgive my impertinence your majesty, I did not recognise you." Wade pleaded.
Joshua found himself realising that the boy was clever, not just a pretty face.
With each passing moment he was glad that he had chosen this boy for his
companion. The two would be well suited, both in their personalities and as a
couple. Wade unfortunately shared Lance's iritating set of values that made him
think himself worthless. This was one of the few flaws in the boy that would
have to be rectified.
"Wade, it is okay." Joshua assured. "And you do not need to bow or genuflect
when it is only us. You will be no more slave than Lance is in private, that is
why I removed your slave collar."
"My liege." Wade said. He returned to his seat but seemed doubtful that any of
this was real. Joshua supposed that it must be a lot for the young slave to
take in, he was not expecting this when he had been taken to the auction.
"And you may call me Joshua." He added.
"Joshua?" Lance asked, testing it himself. "Back there, you told his lordship
that I was Lord James…"
"As you are." Joshua said. "Lord James Bass of Mississippi. Lord Jackson has
recently lost a lot of his lands and money gambling and by indulging certain of
his other vices. When I acquired his lands I made it clear that he was to leave
part of them to you. One of his last acts as ruler was to make you a Lord of
his realm."
"I do not understand my liege." Lance said, he was speechless. "Lord Jackson
told me that I was nothing more than a whore, why would he wish to bestow lands
or a title on me?"
"He was scared." Wade murmurred softly. "He wanted to try and make ammends so
that Joshua would be lenient."
"If I made you a Lord then you would have no real powers, but as he was the
ruler who made you a Lord you will be recognised by the other leaders." Joshua
said. "This way you get a title and the true privilege that this entails."
"The right to keep slaves." Lance said as he looked at Wade.
Wade blushed red in response.
"The right to sit at the King's table." Joshua countered.
Lance was not going to argue, he knew that this was a brush off. Joshua did not
want him anymore so he was buying his affections, or rather paying off his
affections so that he could move on. Joshua saw the storm of emotions that was
raging on his companion's face and knew that he had to say more, even though it
pained him to do so.
"Lance, never think that it is because I do not love you. It is just that you
deserve so much more than I can give you." Joshua said. "You gave me everything
that I ever asked of you and more but I could not return that favour. At least
this way you have more freedom to live how you wish to without being tied to me
for the rest of your life."
"Thank you." Lance said, and he meant it.
Joshua had thought enough of him to make sure that he was provided for and that
was the most that anyone had ever done for Lance. As he watched Wade's
reactions he realised that he could give the boy the same affection that Joshua
had given him, some of the same advantages too and he would be able to care for
him in all of the ways that Joshua had not cared for him. They could be not
only emotionally but sexually involved.
"Wade?" Joshua asked softly. "How did you know about Lord Jackson?"
Lance saw Wade flinch and moved closer to the boy, opening his arms and
beckoning the boy to him. Wade paused a moment and then went to his new master,
knowing that he must serve him in anyway, even if that meant that he was
punished for speaking out of turn.
Instead of hitting him Lance hugged Wade tight, stroking his back gently and
touching him with a gentle caress.
"He served time in Lord Jackson's court." Lance said softly as he felt the few
scars that could be felt through the cloak that Wade wore. "No doubt he heard
the other slaves talking of it."
Joshua liked the way that Lance was already taking control of the boy, the way
that he was already treating Wade as his own. In law a slave could not answer a
question unless allowed by his Master, he was not to speak unless directly to
his owner or unless his owner allowed it. Lance was already taking care of Wade
and teaching him without telling the ways of the world that they were about to
enter.
As the carriage slowed Joshua knew that he had done the right thing, Lance and
Wade would be good together. And yet he could not help feeling the slight
heaviness of his soul that he was again alone. He had friends but his lovelife
was still in grieving for the wife that he had lost.
Maybe he was just destined to be alone. As he strode into the castle and left
his companion behind Joshua wondered what the future held for each of them.
------------
***** From Slaves to Lovers. *****
Wade stood in the corner of the meeting room, bouncing slightly with a little
too much adrenaline. Lance knew that this was better than a moody slave but
just watching Wade sometimes wore him out. Wade had been his assistant for just
over a week and they were getting into a good routine.
Currently they were in the middle of one of Lance's meeting sessions with the
general people of the Kingdom, while Lance went about his usual business Wade
would stand to one side and let Lance get on with it. The slave would only
approach him if asked and would stay in the background as much as possible. It
was amazing just how invisible the tall man could make himself.
At first the other ministers and aristocrats had been wary of the slave's
presence, but once they had seen Lance and Wade interact they were sure that
the boy was 100% loyal to his master and would not divulge any secrets that
were uttered in the room. A few raised questions about why the King's companion
had a slave but none of them would voice these questions when the King was
around. It was now known that Lance was in fact a Lord in Mississippi and that
he was entitled to keep slaves.
When Lance was not working Wade was good enough to make sure that he had
everything that he could need. He was an attentive slave in the same way that
Lance hoped he had been to Joshua but Wade went one step further. Everything
that Lance could think of doing was often already done when he thought of it.
Fresh fruit and a pitcher of water was laid out for meetings when Lance got in
there and there was often a list of people that he was due to see.
Now thought Lance was ready to quit for the day and really all he wanted to do
was relax. The last thing he wanted was to worry that his slave was still
thinking of ways to please his master that would make up for their lack of
physical relationship.
"Wade." Lance called his slave over from the corner.
The overseer that was in with Lance seemed a little annoyed that the other man
had overlooked him but his protests died on his lips when he caught a glimpse
of the gorgeous man that Lance was lucky enough to call a slave.
"Would you go up to my rooms and prepare it for a massage?" He continued.
Wade nodded and made his way out, bowing slightly to both men before he left.
"I'm surprised that the King did not snap him up for himself." The man
commented as he watched Wade's retreating figure.
"He chose him for me." Lance said and he was proud of himself for not blowing
up at the man's pomposity.
The overseer seemed speechless.
"Now. I think that I should get going. I don't think that you need more workers
for your fields, you just need to manage the resources that you have better."
Lance said, having reached the conclusion from listening to the man.
"My Lord, you don't understand…" The man protested knowing that he would not
make his quotas unless he had more slaves, not unless he actually paid more
attention to them and was more sparing with his whip.
"I understand perfectly sir, I know mismanagement when I see it. Now if you'll
excuse me I have more pressing matters to attend to."
And with that Lance was gone leaving a speechless man in his wake. Lance did
indeed have other matters to attend to, most urgently. A beautiful boy waiting
for him in his bedroom and a chance to initiate the something else that Joshua
had commented on before. He hoped that Wade would be open to that type of
suggestion too.
***
"I'm sorry my lord…" Wade began as he heard his master enter.
He had worked quickly and gathered towels and oils for his master's massage but
it had not been fast enough. His master was back and Wade knew that he was not
ready.
"It's okay." Lance soothed as he stepped into the room and shed his tunic. "I
cut short my meeting so that I could get up here a little sooner. You were not
to know that."
"Thank you my lord." Wade said with a slight deferential nod.
"Now, about this massage…" Lance began…
"Of course sir, I am sorry…" Wade stuttered as he grabbed a bottle of oil.
Lance smiled and shook his head which confused his slave.
"Take off your tunic and lay face down on the bed." Lance ordered.
Wade did so immediately, stopping only to fold his tunic and place it neatly on
the chair at the side of the bed that held the preparations for his master's
massage. Lance went over, selected a bottle of oil and sniffed it
experimentally. When he found one that he was pleased with he poured a little
into his hands and warmed it before straddling Wade and warming more of the oil
that he had selected with his hands before rubbing it over the exposed skin.
Wade gasped slightly at the sensation and Lance was glad that he had chosen
this method of seduction. It would be so much easier to loosen Wade up a little
first and then perhaps suggest to the slave that they engage in some act of
sexual gratification.
Lance felt his cock harden at that thought and wondered if Wade would be open
to something like that. Lance certainly wanted the other boy.
Wade was not sure what was happening, he felt as if their roles were reversed
and he was the lord not the slave. Surely he should be the one giving the
massage.
"Shh.." Lance said when he felt the body under him tense a little. "just relax
and enjoy this. I love feeling your soft skin, so beautiful." Lance murmurred.
Wade did as he was told and relaxed, it was easier than he had thought and soon
he could feel all of the knots of the day falling away and let out a sigh of
contentment. Even when the hands on his back and shoulders stilled he could not
build up the energy to move. His master did not seem to mind. Instead of
pushing him out of the bed he pulled him closer and snuggled in with him. It
was early evening and far too early for bed but they would deal with that
later. For now Lance was comfortable and he had forgotten his erection, he was
just happy to lie with Wade and pretend that they were lovers. It was nice to
have someone to cuddle with again.
***
Joseph was looking for Lance. There was muttering in the ranks of some
dissension since Wade had come into the life of the King's companion and Joseph
wanted to make sure that everything was alright. The last thing that they
needed was any type of ruckus now that Lance was settled. The scene that he
found in the other man's bedroom was almost enough to make him believe the
rumours.
Still, he had heard that Joshua had chosen Wade especially for his companion
and that Lance had liked the other man. Joseph just didn't know how much he had
liked the other man until now.
"Forgive the intrusion My lord but his highness is looking for you." Joseph
said as he cleared his voice. "Do you wish me to send word that you
are…otherwise engaged?" He added.
"No, thank you." Lance replied as he sat up and pulled himself from the lazy
dream that he had been having. "Did his highness mention what it was that vexed
him?"
"He merely asked for your presence My lord." Joseph replied. "I believe that it
may be to do with today's meetings."
"Very well." Lance said as he stood and moved to get his tunic. Wade stayed
where he was and Lance smiled, walking to the other side of his bed on his way
out and placing a gentle kiss on the younger man's forehead.
"My lord?" Wade asked as he woke.
"Hush." Lance replied. "Rest and think of me, I shall be back soon."
Wade smiled and followed orders snuggling back into the bed and falling almost
instantly asleep.
Joseph could not help but smile. The King had indeed made a good choice and if
this pair were not already lovers they soon would be. Of course this would
counteract Joseph's work in getting Joshua and Lance together in the first
place but maybe it was for the best.
Joshua was happier than he had been and the Kingdom was in good hands. Maybe
their monarch was just going to be alone and there really was only one love for
each person in each lifetime. Joseph sighed and wondered if he had found his.
Still, Joseph had time for his own love life in his private time, now he had to
get Lance and Joshua together and discuss the matters that were concerning him.
Especially those of one of the newer overseers in Mississippi. Joseph hoped
that the matter could be resolved easily.
***
Joshua waited patiently and smiled when his companion joined him looking a
little flushed and bed rumpled. It was clear that the rumours of the man who
had all but demanded an audience with the King had not been far off.
"My liege." Lance said with a courteous bow as he entered. He saw quickly that
they were not alone and had made sure that he was as respectful as anyone would
expect him to be.
"Ah, I see you were off playing with our new toy." Joshua replied with a
playful smile. "Lucas here was just telling me that you cut short your meeting
with him to amuse yourself."
"Forgive me, my liege." Lance began, then saw the twinkle in his master's eye
and realised that the King understood his side completely. "I thought that the
matter had been resolved. I told Lucas that he needed to manage his fields
better and that we had no extra manpower to spare."
"I told the King that I was not happy with that decision." Lucas argued.
Joshua turned.
"You forget yourself Lucas." He ordered. "Lord James holds lands in this
Kingdom now and you will treat him with the respect that he deserves."
"My liege." The overseer bowed. "Forgive me, my lord." He said the words as if
they tasted sour in his mouth and Lance fought the smirk that played on his
lips. He knew that the King had reprimanded the overseer just because he wanted
to show the other man who held the power but Lance also felt as if the King may
have been doing it for him.
"Apology accepted Lucas." Lance said with a smile. "And what did his highness
say to your request?" He asked.
"I told Lucas that I do not deal with issues that arise on the rural estates,
that if he has no luck with his superior or you then he is not to bother me
with such trivialities. Your decision stands." Joshua said.
"Thank you my liege." Lance said with a slight nod. Joshua approached his
companion and placed a gentle kiss on the other man's forehead.
"Lucas. You have seen that Lord James' power comes from me and that his voice
is as strong as mine. Please do not question my chosen again." Joshua said.
Lucas, the overseer, stood and bowed to both the parties before leaving them
alone. The door was barely shut behind him when Joshua laughed aloud.
"My liege?" Lance asked, wondering if his master was quite sane.
"I've missed you Lance." Joshua told him. "No one else understands me as you
do." He confided as he explained his laughter. "To see his face when we were
together…" He trailed off as the laughter began again.
"My liege, if I have neglected my duties as your companion..." Lance began, but
Joshua shook his head.
"Are you enjoying Wade?" He asked, not if he was enjoying his time with Wade
but if he was enjoying him.
Lance blushed.
"Well, that answers my question." Joshua answered, amused that his companion
still had that edge about him after living in the palace for so long. He
wondered if Lance would ever lose that edge of innocence that he had come to
the palace with. Joshua sincerely hoped not.
"My liege..." A knock came on the door and Lord Christopher walked in, not
waiting for permission to enter.
"Christopher, your manners never cease to amaze me." Joshua said dryly as he
stepped toward Lance.
"Forgive me Joshua, but this is more important than your dalliances with Lord
James..." Christopher said, and his tone spoke of the urgency of whatever the
matter was.
Joshua nodded and then leaned down, placing a soft kiss on Lance's throat
before moving his lips to Lance's ear.
"I have cleared the schedule for the next few days." Joshua said, his lips
almost caressing the ear that he spoke into in a seductive whisper. "I want you
to take the time to enjoy yourself with Wade before you go back to your duties.
You have been working too hard." He told his companion, placing another gentle
kiss on the man's lips as he pulled away.
"Thank you my liege." Lance said with a bow as he turned to leave.
Christopher nodded to Lance as he passed him and Lance did the same. It was
recognition that both of them held a place not only in the court but in the
King's heart, the pair had respect for each other and perhaps an understanding
that no one else in the court did. All of this was passed in the one nod.
As soon as Lance was gone Christopher spoke again.
"I see that you got him a distraction." Christopher said.
"It was your suggestion, old man." Joshua replied jovially.
"Well, it may have been a bad one." Christopher said seriously. "There is talk
in the Kingdom of an uprising and I do not know if there is to be trouble or
not."
"Christopher, there is always talk of an uprising, why should this one be any
different?" Joshua asked. He was tired and worn and the last thing he needed
was to worry unduly about some supposed civil war.
"But your lands are wider now and more open to attack. People are supporting
the leaders in the North who want your son to take the throne."
"He is only a child." Joshua argued.
"But they could put him on the throne with someone else as regent." Christopher
responded. "And they have decided that you do not care about your people any
longer. When was the last time that you toured the provinces, let alone put in
an appearance in the new lands?" Christopher asked.
"You know that I could not leave when Bobby was sick." Joshua reasoned.
"She is long dead my friend, but the people of your lands still need you." He
said softly. "If you do not lead them then they will find someone else that
will."
"Very well." Joshua said. "As soon as Lance is finished with his vacation I
shall leave. I will schedule my first visit for Mississippi..." Joshua said.
"There are some lands there which may be being mismanaged and I would like to
see for myself how Lance's plans are being implemented."
"You are making the right decision." Christopher replied. "The people need you
and a few visits will be good for morale. They will also allow you to give some
of the new people a face to put to the legends they hear of their Lord and
Master."
"I'm glad you think it's a good idea because you'll be at my side." Joshua told
him.
Christopher balked at the idea. He had been looking forward to some time off
with Joseph and hopefully some time to relax before the next war that needed to
be fought or message that needed to be delivered. Christopher was thankful for
the trust and position that the King had bestowed upon him but sometimes he
would have enjoyed just a little more of his old life than the hard work of the
one he had now.
"My liege..." He began to protest.
"If a King rides out then his man at arms must be at his side." Joshua said.
"This was your suggestion." He added with a smile.
"Remind me not to have any more bright ideas." Christopher complained.
Joshua laughed.
"That is not likely for a decade or so," the King replied, avoiding as he did
so, a cushion that Christopher threw as a missile.
At least he would have his friend at his side.
-----
Wade was suspicious of his new position with the King's companion, he took the
time that Lance was away to consider what had come to pass since the King had
purchased him. He had tried to be an attentive slave, he took his role
seriously and he wanted to take as much of the stress that the King had told
him of off of the shoulder's of his new Master. He wanted to make it easier for
the man to work and he hoped that he did so. But it puzzled him that his Master
had failed to use him yet. Wade knew what he was there for, he saw no use in
lying to himself over that, but Lord James did nothing more than kiss him a
little and hold him. It was all very confusing and not as he had been taught it
would be.
Wade thought of his former life, it had been a hard one. As Lance had said to
the King, Lord Jackson was not a nice master to work for and his slaves were
ill treated and often malnourished. But there was worse and that was a master
that was not sparing with his whip. Thankfully a lot of his life Wade had been
too young to feel anymore than a cane across his backside for misdemeanours but
he had felt it often enough to know that his master was cruel. Now he had a
kind master who loved him as much as a master could love a slave and he was
still complaining. Maybe he was the ungrateful whore that someone had once told
him he was.
Wade was so lost in thought that he didn't see his Master return from his
important meeting with the King, the first he knew of it was a soft hand gently
wiping away his tears.
"Hush." Lance said softly. "They can't hurt you now."
He placed a gentle kiss on each cheek, wiping away the tears and caressing Wade
as he did so. Then he pulled back slightly and pulled off his tunic, tossing it
to one side and climbing into the bed next to his slave.
"Now, tell me what it was that caused these tears..." Lance said softly. "Let
me see if I can't sort it out."
"I'm sorry my Lord, I didn't mean to be an ungrateful whore..." Wade said, only
realising after he felt the hands tighten around his waist at what he had said.
"You are *not* a whore." Lance said adamantly. "You're a beautiful, sexy man
who just happens to be a slave." Lance said, letting out a slight chuckle as he
did so. "I guess that makes you the same as me."
"A slave, Master?" Wade asked.
"I am a slave to the duties that the King has gifted me with but also I am his
companion and I was a slave too. When his highness picked me I was nothing more
than a slave sent to appease the King." Lance said.
"But now you are his companion?" Wade said in disbelief.
Wade knew that he should not really ask questions but his Master was lenient
and he was sure that he would not mind a few more. Wade was sure that as long
as he was careful his Master would not punish him.
"And you are my companion." Lance said, kissing Wade's shoulder gently as he
spooned behind him. "And you are so much more than a slave to me."
Wade wanted to turn around but the arms around his middle held him tight, he
wanted to see if his Master meant those words because Wade felt them inside. He
had grown to love this man and he had always hoped that his Master felt the
same way.
"Now sleep." Lance said softly, relinquishing his grip a little. "We can sleep
in tommorrow but I have plans for us and I do not want to be too lazy."
"Yes, My Lord." Wade said.
"And Wade..." Lance added.
"My Lord?" Wade asked, expecting a request to leave the bed or for him to fetch
something.
"Call me Lance."
***
Wade woke early the next morning. It was part of his usual duties to prepare
his Master's bath and attend him in the mornings so he was used to early
mornings. He was concious though of what his master had said to him about
laying in but also that they had plans. He didn't quite know what to do.
Thankfully a few minutes after he had woken his Master too was awake.
"Mmm. Good Morning." His Master said with a feline stretch, arching into the
body that he was spooned into and in doing so rubbing his morning hard on in
the small of Wade's back.
"Good Morning Master." Wade said politely.
Lance let out a low chuckle that reverberated through his own chest and
vibrated against Wade's back. He placed a sloppy kiss on Wade's cheek and then
rolled the other man over towards him.
"I told you to call me Lance." Lance said as he leaned over Wade. He kissed the
other man tenderly on the mouth and then moved to sit up but in an
uncharacteristic show of both bravado and disobedience Wade pulled him back
down for a kiss.
Lance enjoyed the feeling for a moment, laying fully across his bed partner and
feeling the warmth of skin against skin. It was only for a moment thought
because then Wade realised what he had done and froze, pulling away as best he
could and attempting to scramble up the bed to avoid whatever punishment his
Master deemed suitable for his disgrace.
"Wade?" Lance asked softly.
Lance watched as Wade's face displayed his fear and horror at what he had done.
Lance however was more worried about Wade than angry at the actions. He didn't
see it as willful but instead he found it endearing.
"Come back down here and lay with me." Lance said. Wade complied but remained
rigid in his Master's arms. "Do you remember last night when I told you that
you were more than a slave to me?" Lance asked softly.
Wade nodded. He wondered what this meant. Was his Master going to revoke the
words and punish him as he should be punished?
"Well, then you should know that I don't expect you to act as a slave. I can't
grant you the same freedoms that the King would be able to but I can give you
some allowances and maybe some priveleges in the areas that I do control."
Lance said.
"Master?" Wade asked, his voice shaky and sounding as if he was on the verge of
tears. "Am I to be punished?" He needed to know. Even if the question did add
extra punishment to what he was about to receive the suspense was killing him.
In response to the question Lance let go of the loose grip that he had on Wade
and gently stroked his arm.
"I'm not going to punish you." Lance said. "I wanted what you did, I'm proud
that you took the initiative to respond and would actively encourage you to
express yourself like that while we are together." Lance said. "At least while
we are alone in each other's company."
Wade nodded. He understood that they could not be open in public, it was taboo
to even think that the King's companion had a slave but it could be tolerated.
However no one would tolerate two slaves of the King acting as lovers. How
could a slave properly satisfy their Master's needs if they were off cavorting
with other slaves?
"May I kiss you my Lord?" Wade asked after a moment.
Lance's response was to lean over and kiss his slave as he had done earlier
that morning. This time when Wade pulled Lance to him neither of them
complained. After all this was what they were supposed to be doing and it felt
right. What could be wrong with that?
***
"I still don't see why you have to go with him." Joseph whined as he watched
Christopher packing his spare clothes into a small trunk that would go on the
cart with more of the King's possessions for their planned journey. "Joshua is
more than capable of travelling alone."
"Joseph, you know the laws as well as I do." Christopher said, then smiled.
"Actually, you probably know them better than I do. As King he is expected to
travel with an entourage and that includes his man at arms."
"Lance is staying here." Joseph countered.
Christopher sighed.
"Lance will be ruling in absentia." Christopher replied. "Joshua seems to think
that this will allow the people to see just how good a companion Lance is as
well as allowing him to tour the provinces of his Kingdom."
"But I can't come with you?" Joseph asked. This time Christopher had no
patience for his lover.
"You know that you are forbidden to leave the castle. Hell, you're lucky that
Joshua even lets you have the powers that you do." Christopher said blandly.
"Besides, I think that Joshua wants someone he trusts to stay here and keep an
eye on Lance - you know the courtiers better than he does and you have a unique
understanding of the way that the gentry think."
"I still want to go with you." Joseph said and this time it was petulance not
whining. Chris pulled his lover close and began to show him just how much he
wished he was going too.
***
"As much as I would like to stay here all day with you and lounge in bed I
promised you plans for today." Lance said as he pulled away from yet another
bout of kissing.
Wade looked edible, his ruffled hair and kiss bruised lips making Lance want
nothing more than to kiss him again. But they had plans and he was not going to
forget them for anything. Especially not when the plans were for his slave's
benefit as much as for his own.
"May I ask where we are going?" Wade asked. He wondered which of his tunics he
should wear or whether his Master would expect something a little less formal.
He had seen some of the slaves in ridiculous outfits of silk or leather,
perhaps Lance wanted him to wear one of those. He was after all there to please
his Master.
"I want to show you the King's library." Lance said and Wade's eyes widened
with surprise and shock. Lance smiled at that look.
Lance knew that inside Wade was salivating and he remembered the time that he
had seen his lover's most prized possession, a worn but well loved book. Wade
had taken it out when he thought his master was not looking and had touched the
pages lovingly, but Lance was almost certain that Wade himself could not read.
It must be prized for a different, perhaps a sentimental reason.
"I thought perhaps that I could read to you." Lance said. Again Wade smiled. "I
enjoy reading and I thought that you might like to hear it too."
"Do you read poetry?" Wade asked timidly.
"Why?" Lance asked innocently. "Do you like poetry."
"Oh, yes." Wade said enthuasiastically before realising that he had answered
the question a little too quickly and emphatically.
"Do you have a favourite author or poet?" Lance asked innocently.
It was then that Wade paused. After a moment he slid from the bed and padded to
his own corner of Lance's suite where his meagre possessions were kept. They
had been forwarded after his purchase and Joshua had made sure that Wade was
given them immediately. Wade drew out the book and then moved back to Lance,
giving it to him shyly and then looking away. It was only as he held it that
Lance realised that this was a notebook and not a manuscript as with most of
those in Joshua's vast library. It was personal and sentimental because it was
Wade's, inside was an inscription that made Lance want to cry.
"To my beautiful boy, so that you may one day know the beauty of the world
through all of this ugliness. Love Always, Mother."
"Your Mother?" Lance asked. Wade nodded. "Come here..." Lance prompted as he
pulled his lover to him and Wade did so.
After a moment Lance began to read the poetry aloud, his deep voice flowing
over them like honey and causing Wade to close his eyes. Not only was he
concentrating on the words but he was hiding the tears - tears for his Mother
and for her world. The world that he had once been certain he would never see.
Now however he could almost imagine finding that world with his new Master and
while that scared him it also excited him to the same degree.
Because it was that frightening but exhilarating thing they call Love.
***
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