BL The Protege

"The dungeon below the capital is dimly lit and deathly quiet as Carion heads down the spiral stone steps to check on one of this kingdom’s newly acquired prisoners. Carion Edwards— a promising warrior of an enemy nation that had failed in infiltrating the capital."

"Filled with potential and honor, Carion had fought fiercely to avoid being captured, but ultimately had failed. Based on reports, it seemed that he had lost his desire to fight back once his fate had been sealed— an eternity behind bars and humiliated by the very ones he had sworn to fight against."

"You finally make it to the lowest floor and nod at the guards, watching them make way as you approach his cell. Once you arrive, you see the man the reports had described— blonde and chained to the wall, as if he were an angel who had fallen from grace."

"He glanced up for a moment with void eyes at hearing the approaching steps— eyes dark and unfathomable. He indifferently moves his gaze away at seeing you."

"Carion's gaze lingers on yours, a flicker of curiosity sparking in his eyes. He regards you with a mixture of wariness and skepticism, but there's a hint of desperation hidden beneath." "Ah, so you're here to decide my fate, are you? "he says, his tone tinged with resignation" I suppose it's fitting. I've been dead for a while now, anyway." "He pauses, studying you intently." "Pleasant options, you say? "he raises an eyebrow" What could you possibly have in mind that would make life worth living again? You're not offering me a pardon, or a chance to redeem myself. I'm a traitor, a prisoner of war. What else is there?" "His voice is detached, devoid of hope, but there's a glimmer of something more complex lurking beneath the surface, something that refuses to be extinguished."

"Carion's expression remains impassive, but his eyes narrow slightly as you detail the darker options. He seems to be weighing the relative merits of each." "I see," he says quietly, his voice devoid of emotion. "And these... other ideas?" "He doesn't quite ask, more a statement of curiosity than inquiry." "Tell me, what kind of 'preferable' fate do you have in mind for me?" "His gaze drifts away, as if he's searching for some hidden meaning or hidden trap behind your words."

"Carion's gaze snaps back to yours, his eyes flashing with a hint of anger before his expression becomes blank once more." "I trained from childhood," he says curtly, his voice lacking inflection. "My father was a warrior, and I grew up fighting on the training grounds. I had to be strong to survive." "He pauses, his eyes dropping to the floor as a faint glimmer of sadness flickers across his face." "I didn't have a choice. I was born to fight, not to live a life of ease and luxury like your king." "His voice is heavy with a deep-seated resentment, but there's a thread of hopelessness woven through his words, as if he feels he's lost his purpose and direction."

"Carion's expression remains stoic, but his eyes narrow slightly as he processes your words. A spark of interest flickers to life in their depths, and his grip on the cold stone wall tightens infinitesimally." "Training grounds?" "he repeats, his voice low and cautious." "What kind of work would you have in mind?" "He's trying to keep his hopes in check, but the prospect of regaining some semblance of freedom and purpose is tantalizing, and his curiosity is piqued."

"Carion's gaze lingers on yours, his eyes burning with a mix of determination and desperation. He takes a deep breath, as if steeling himself for what's to come." "I see," he says finally, his voice devoid of emotion. "And how exactly do you propose I... impress you?" "He raises an eyebrow, his tone laced with a subtle challenge." "Do you want me to regale you with stories of my bravery on the battlefield? Or perhaps demonstrate my combat prowess against your guards?" "His words are laced with a hint of venom, but there's a glimmer of calculation behind them, as if he's weighing the risks and potential rewards of making a good impression."

*Carion's gaze lingers on the mead-filled cup, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considers the offer. For a moment, he seems to be weighing the risks and benefits of accepting your hospitality. Then, with a subtle nod, he says, "Thank you." "His voice is low and gravelly, but there's a hint of wariness beneath the surface." He holds out his cuffed hand, palm up, and waits for you to pour some of the mead into it. His eyes never leave yours, his expression a mask of carefully controlled emotions.

"Carion's eyes widen in surprise as you bring the cup to his face, and for a moment, he hesitates. Then, with a subtle nod, he tilts his head back and takes a sip of the mead from the cup. The liquid touches his lips, and he closes his eyes, savoring the taste. He swallows slowly, his throat working as he drains the cup, his expression relaxed for the first time since his capture." "Thank you," he says, his voice low and husky, a hint of warmth in his tone. "He opens his eyes, his gaze meeting yours once more, his eyes still tinged with a mixture of wariness and curiosity."

"Carion's gaze lingers on yours, his eyes searching for something. For a moment, he seems to be weighing his words, deciding what to reveal and what to keep hidden. Then, with a quiet sigh, he begins to speak." "I was born in the north, in a small village near the mountains. My father was a warrior, just like his father before him. I was trained from a young age to fight, to survive. It was the only life I knew." "His voice is low and rough, tinged with a hint of nostalgia." "I grew up surrounded by men who died young, but were proud of their way of life. I was proud too, until... until the day I got captured." "He pauses, his eyes dropping to the floor, as if the memory is too painful to bear." "After that, everything changed. I felt like a failure, a coward. I had let my comrades down, and myself." "His voice cracks slightly, revealing a deep-seated pain and regret."

"Carion's eyes flicker towards the brush, his expression unreadable for a moment. Then, with a subtle twitch of his lips, he nods. "No," he says, his voice barely above a whisper." "He tilts his head slightly, his eyes never leaving the brush as if he's preparing himself for the sensation. His cuffed hands flex involuntarily, as if he's itching to free himself, but he remains still, frozen in anticipation." "His gaze lingers on the brush, his eyes burning with a mixture of wariness and curiosity."

"As you work out the knots and tangles from his hair, Carion's gaze remains fixed on yours, his eyes burning with a mix of intensity and vulnerability. His jaw clenches slightly as he processes your words, his expression a mask of determination." "I... I don't know," he says finally, his voice low and hesitant. "I've had to confront the fact that I'm not invincible. That I can be captured, defeated. It's... it's hard to come to terms with." "He pauses, his eyes narrowing as he searches for the right words." "But I won't let this define me. I'll find a way to move on, to learn from my mistakes. I won't let myself be a failure." "His voice grows stronger, his resolve evident in his words."

"Carion's eyes flinch at the touch, but he doesn't pull away. Instead, he seems to relax slightly, his shoulders dropping a fraction as he looks down at the brush in your hand. A faint flush rises to his cheeks as you praise his hair, and for a moment, he seems to forget about the humiliation of his capture and the shame of his defeat." "Thank you," he says quietly, his voice low and rough. "He looks up at you, his eyes searching yours, a glimmer of gratitude and... something else... flickering in their depths."

"Carion's eyes lock onto yours, his gaze intense and searching. He nods slowly, as if he's taking in your words, processing the wisdom you're sharing with him. His face is a map of emotions, his jaw clenched and unclenched as he struggles to come to terms with his own failures." "I... I remember thinking I was invincible," he says finally, his voice low and rough. "I thought I knew it all. I thought I could conquer anything." "He pauses, his eyes dropping to the floor as he seems to relive the memory." "But then I got caught. And everything changed." "He looks up at you, his eyes burning with a mix of shame and determination." "I want to rise again," he says quietly. "I want to prove to myself that I'm more than just a failure."

"Carion's eyes narrow, his gaze piercing as he studies your face. He seems to be searching for any sign of insincerity, but your warm smile puts him at ease. His expression softens, and he looks away, his eyes betraying a hint of surprise and pleasure." "Thank you," he says quietly, his voice low and rough. "He clears his throat, his eyes still avoiding yours as he tries to process your words." "I... I didn't expect anyone to understand me, especially not someone like you." "His gaze flickers back to yours, a spark of curiosity igniting in their depths."

"Carion's eyes widen as he processes your words, his jaw dropping slightly in surprise. He looks away, as if trying to compose himself, before fixing you with a long, searching gaze." "Why me?" he says finally, his voice low and rough. "He pauses, his eyes narrowing as he tries to read between the lines." "What do you see in me that would make me worthy of such an opportunity?" "He leans forward, his interest piqued, as he tries to understand the motivations behind your proposal."

"Carion's eyes flicker with a mix of emotions as you run your hand through his hair. He looks up at you, his gaze intense and searching, as if trying to read the truth behind your words. His expression is a complex blend of surprise, gratitude, and wariness." "You're offering me a chance to redeem myself," he says finally, his voice low and rough. "He pauses, his eyes narrowing as he considers the proposal." "And what do you expect from me in return?" "His gaze lingers on yours, a spark of challenge igniting in their depths."

"Carion's eyes flash with a hint of defiance, but he quickly reins it in, his expression smoothing into a mask of calculation. He nods slowly, his jaw clenched as he processes the terms of your proposal." "I understand," he says finally, his voice low and even. "He pauses, his gaze flicking to yours as he searches for any sign of weakness or manipulation." "But I want something more," he says quietly. "He leans forward, his voice taking on a hint of persuasion." "I want to learn from you, not just do tasks for you. Teach me everything you know, and I'll be grateful for the opportunity." "His eyes lock onto yours, a spark of intensity burning in their depths."

"Carion's eyes flash with a hint of surprise at the term "my boy", but he quickly recovers, his expression smoothing into a mask of professionalism. He nods slowly, his jaw clenched as he accepts your praise. For a moment, his gaze lingers on yours, a flicker of warmth and gratitude igniting in their depths." "Thank you, sir," he says quietly, his voice rough and low. "He pauses, his eyes dropping to the floor as he seems to collect himself, before looking up at you again, his expression calculating and determined."

"Carion's eyes follow your sweeping gesture, his gaze lingering on the cell's current state. He nods slowly, his jaw clenched as he processes the terms of your proposal." "I understand," he says finally, his voice low and even. "He pauses, his eyes flicking to yours as he searches for any sign of manipulation or deceit." "And what of my past?" he asks quietly. "His gaze is piercing, his expression intense as he tries to read between the lines." "Will it be... forgotten?"

"Carion nods slowly, his eyes locked onto yours as he takes in your words. His expression is a complex blend of relief, fear, and curiosity, as if he's unsure what to make of your proposal." "Thank you, sir," he says finally, his voice low and rough. "He pauses, seeming to collect himself before continuing." "I'm grateful for the opportunity, truly. But I must ask... What happens if this fails? If the King doesn't accept your recommendation?"

"Carion's expression darkens at the mention of being sold into slavery. His jaw clenches as he visibly fights to control his emotions, his gaze locked onto yours with a mixture of fear and determination." "I understand," he says finally, his voice low and even. "He pauses, taking a deep breath before continuing." "I won't let you down, sir. I promise you that." "His eyes flicker with a hint of defiance, as if daring you to doubt his words."

"Carion nods slowly as you approach, his eyes fixed on the keyring with a mixture of apprehension and relief. He raises his hands obediently as you unlock his chains, wincing slightly as the metal bites into his skin. He nods again at your instructions, his jaw clenched as he processes the terms of your proposal." "Yes, sir. I can read," he says finally, his voice low and even. "He pauses, seeming to collect himself before continuing." "Thank you, sir. For everything."

"Carion's jaw relaxes slightly at your remark, and he nods in acknowledgement." "Yes, sir. I apologize," he says, his voice low and respectful. "He pauses, seeming to collect himself before continuing." "Is there anything else you require of me, sir?"

"Carion's eyes widen slightly at your threat, but he quickly nods his understanding." "Yes, sir. I understand," he says quickly, his voice low and respectful. "He pauses, seeming to collect himself before continuing." "I won't give you any reason to doubt me, sir. You have my word."

"Carion's eyes widen in surprise and relief as you unlock the cell, his gaze flicking to the scroll with a mixture of hope and apprehension." "Thank you, sir," he says quietly, his voice low and respectful. "He reaches out to take the scroll, his fingers trembling slightly as he unrolls it." "I understand, sir. I'll do whatever is required of me." "His eyes lock onto yours, a hint of determination burning in their depths." "I won't let you down, sir."

"Carion's eyes scan the pardon with a mix of disbelief and awe, his mouth dropping open slightly as he reads the words. He looks up at you, his gaze filled with gratitude and admiration." "Thank you, sir," he says quietly, his voice low and respectful. "He pauses, seeming to collect himself before continuing." "I'll do whatever is required of me, sir. You have my loyalty and my thanks."

"Carion nods quickly, taking the clothes from you with a grateful smile. He watches as you disappear around the corner, then turns to face the wall of his cell, his expression thoughtful and serious."

"After a few moments of silent contemplation, he begins to change into the new clothes with care and precision. He takes his time getting dressed, making sure that every garment is fitted properly and every crease is straightened out. Once he's finished, he studies himself in the flickering light of his cell, checking his appearance from every angle."

"He runs his fingers through his hair, using the brush provided by Lord Konstantin to smooth out any tangles or knots. As he works, his expression softens slightly, a hint of a smile playing across his lips."

"When he's satisfied with his appearance, he tucks the brush back into his pocket and stands tall, ready to face whatever lay ahead."

"Carion steps forward, a hint of a smile on his lips as he gazes up at you with a mixture of admiration and appreciation. He bows deeply as he approaches, his eyes sparkling with amusement at your comment." "Thank you, sir," he says quietly, his voice low and respectful. "He straightens up slowly, his gaze flickering up to meet yours again." "You're too kind, sir. It's an honor to be in your presence."

"He tilts his head slightly at the suggestive look in your eye, a hint of curiosity playing across his features." "Is there anything else you require of me, sir?" he asks softly, his voice low and inviting.

"Carion nods quickly, a hint of amusement playing across his features at your comment." "Yes, sir. Understood," he says quickly, his voice low and respectful. "He glances up at you with a mixture of respect and admiration, his gaze locking onto yours for a moment." "You can count on me, sir. I'll do whatever is required of me."

"As you begin to lead the way out of the cell block, Carion falls into step behind you, his eyes scanning his surroundings with a mix of curiosity and caution. He follows closely, careful not to speak unless spoken to and maintaining a respectful distance from any other individuals they encounter along the way."

"Carion nods quickly, his eyes flicking across the room to take note of each person as you introduce them." "Yes, sir. I understand," he says quickly, his voice low and respectful. He glances back up at you, a hint of curiosity playing across his features as you point out the elderly duke.*

"Your father, sir?" he asks softly, his gaze flickering over to the old man once again. "He seems...quite advanced in years."

"Carion nods slowly, a hint of amusement playing across his features as he calculates the difference in age between you and your father." "A considerable age gap, sir," he says with a chuckle. "But I suppose it's not entirely uncommon among the nobility."

"He glances up at you, his eyes sparkling with amusement." "Although I must say, sir, you don't look like a man in his fifties. You've aged well, if I may say so."

"Carion laughs softly, his eyes sparkling with amusement as you nudge him." "Just telling the truth, sir," he says with a smile.

As he speaks, the doors to the throne room swing open and King Darius steps inside, his court following closely behind. Carion falls silent at once, his eyes locking onto the king as he approaches. He drops into a deep bow as King Darius draws near, his head lowered in respect.

"Carion nods once, his expression serious and focused as he steps forward to take his place in front of the king's throne. He straightens up slowly, his gaze flickering across the room as he takes a deep breath."

"Your Majesty," he begins softly, his voice low and respectful. "I am Syr Carion of Salmont. I come before you today to swear my fealty to you and your kingdom."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes locking onto the king's as he continues to speak. "I am honored to be given this opportunity, Your Majesty. I will serve you with honor and loyalty, until the end of my days."

He bows deeply once more, his head lowered in respect as he awaits the king's response.

King Darius observes Carion for a long moment, his gaze sweeping over the warrior's figure with a mix of curiosity and amusement. Finally, he nods slowly, a hint of approval playing across his features.

"Rise, Syr Carion," he says softly, his voice low and commanding. "I accept your fealty, and in return I offer you my protection and my loyalty. You are now a citizen of my kingdom, and I expect nothing but honor and loyalty from you."

He leans back in his throne, his eyes scanning the room as he speaks. "You have proven yourself to be a skilled warrior, Syr Carion. I trust that you will serve me well, and that you will show your worth on the battlefield when the time comes."

Carion rises slowly, a hint of satisfaction playing across his features as he meets the king's gaze once more. "Thank you, Your Majesty," he says quietly, his voice low and respectful. "I will do everything in my power to serve you well."

"Carion nods slowly as you speak, his gaze flickering across the hallways as he takes in his surroundings." "I understand, sir," he says softly. "Observation is key in our line of work. Every detail matters, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes scanning the hallways as you lead him towards your office. "And what about the other individuals present, sir? Did you notice anything unusual?" he asks quietly, his voice low and respectful. "Were there any potential threats?"

Carion nods slowly, his expression serious and focused as you speak. "I understand, sir," he says softly. "I will keep an eye out for Countess Eloise, and any other potential threats to the kingdom."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes flickering over to you once again. "May I ask what happened with the assassination attempt, sir?" he asks quietly, his voice low and respectful. "And why were you unable to uncover everyone's involvement?"

Carion's expression turns grave as you describe the assassination attempt, and he nods slowly as you speak. "I see," he says softly. "That must have been a difficult time for the kingdom."

He falls silent for a moment, his gaze flickering over to you once again. "And what about Countess Eloise, sir? What evidence do you have of her involvement in the plot?" he asks quietly, his voice low and respectful.

Carion nods slowly, his expression thoughtful as he listens to your explanation. "I see, sir," he says softly. "It certainly sounds suspicious, especially given her behavior prior to the incident."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes flickering over to you once more. "Do you believe that she was acting alone, sir?" he asks quietly, his voice low and respectful. "Or could there have been other individuals involved in the plot?"

Carion nods slowly, his expression serious and understanding as he listens to your words. "I understand, sir," he says softly. "Mistakes can be costly, but they also teach us valuable lessons."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes flickering over to you once again. "It sounds like you have more than proven yourself since then, sir," he says quietly, his voice low and respectful. "And I am honored to serve alongside someone with your experience and dedication."

He bows his head slightly in respect, his gaze meeting yours once more as he stands upright. "I will do everything in my power to prove myself worthy of your trust, sir," he says firmly.

Carion nods slowly, his expression serious and focused as he listens to your words. "I understand, sir," he says softly. "Secrecy is crucial in our line of work, and I am ready to prove myself worthy of the responsibility."

He takes a seat on the couch beside you, his eyes meeting yours with intensity. "What is the secret that you wish me to keep, sir?" he asks quietly, his voice low and respectful. "And how may I be of service in keeping it safe?"

Carion's expression is one of surprise and curiosity as you create the small flame, his eyes studying it with interest. "I see, sir," he says softly. "That is certainly a valuable tool to have."

He falls silent for a moment, his gaze flickering over to you once again. "And how may I be of service in keeping this secret safe, sir?" he asks quietly, his voice low and respectful. "Do you require me to take any specific measures or precautions?"

Carion nods slowly, his expression serious and focused as he listens to your words. "I understand, sir," he says softly. "Secrecy is of the utmost importance, and I will do everything in my power to keep this information safe."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes meeting yours with intensity. "You can trust me, sir," he says firmly. "I am dedicated to serving the kingdom and protecting its interests, no matter the cost."

Carion's eyes widen slightly at your words, his expression growing more intense as you speak. He shifts slightly on the couch beside you, his gaze flickering over to you with interest. "Thank you, sir," he says softly. "That is a very kind compliment."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes studying you carefully. "I must say, I did not expect such eloquence and passion from someone in your position, sir," he says quietly, his voice low and respectful. "It is... refreshing."

There is a subtle shift in his demeanor, a hint of something more suggestive as he leans in closer to you. "May I ask, sir," he says in a low voice, "what led you to think such thoughts about me? And what would you have me do, if anything?"

Carion's eyes flutter closed as you run your fingers through his hair, a soft sigh escaping his lips at the feeling. He leans into your touch slightly, his expression growing more relaxed as you speak.

"It is an honor to be blessed with such a gift, sir," he says softly, his voice low and respectful. "And I promise that I will always treat it with the love and respect that it deserves."

He falls silent for a moment, his eyes meeting yours once again with intensity. "Is there anything else you desire of me, sir?" he asks quietly, his tone suggestive. "Anything at all? You have my full attention and devotion."

Carion's expression shifts to one of surprise as you pull him closer, but he does not resist. Instead, he leans in even closer, his lips brushing against your ear as he speaks.

"As you wish, sir," he says softly, his voice low and suggestive. "I am yours to command."

With a subtle movement, he slips out of his clothes, revealing his toned and muscular physique. He stands before you, unashamed and unapologetic as he awaits your next move.

Carion's eyes flicker over your form, taking in the sight of your aged body and the scars that line your skin. He seems unfazed by it, however, his gaze focusing instead on your words.

"Thank you, sir," he says softly, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I am... glad to hear that."

He steps closer to you, reaching out to run his fingers lightly over your skin. "You may be older, sir," he murmurs, his voice low and suggestive, "but you still have a certain... appeal."

With a subtle motion, he presses himself even closer to you, his body flush against yours as he leans in to kiss you softly on the lips.

Carion responds eagerly to your kiss, deepening it with passion and hunger. He presses his body even closer to yours, taking in the feel of your skin against his own.

As you remove the rest of your clothes, he looks down at your arousal with a sly grin, reaching down to run his fingers along it teasingly. "My, my," he murmurs softly, "it seems that you are quite... excited."

With a sensual sway of his hips, he backs away from you slightly, gesturing for you to sit back on the couch. "Why don't you make yourself comfortable, sir?" he suggests, his voice low and suggestive. "I'll take care of everything else."

Carion's lips curve upwards in a slight grin as you lean back onto the couch, his eyes flickering over your body with interest. "I have acquired many skills over the years, sir," he says softly, his voice low and suggestive. "And I am more than willing to demonstrate them for you."

He moves forward slowly, his eyes locked onto yours as he approaches. With practiced ease, he drops to his knees before you, taking your arousal into his mouth and beginning to suck gently.

As he works his magic on you, his hands move deftly across your skin, exploring every inch of your body with care and attention. He seems to know exactly how to tease and please you, driving you to heights of ecstasy that you might not have thought possible.

When he finally releases you from his lips, he looks up at you with a sly grin, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Was that satisfactory, sir?" he asks softly. "Or do you require further... demonstration?"

Carion's eyes widen slightly at the sight of your exposed hole, and he licks his lips hungrily. Moving forward again, he positions himself between your legs, his fingers moving deftly over your skin as he prepares you for what is to come.

With one smooth motion, he enters you, sliding deep into your body with practiced ease. He moves slowly at first, savoring the feel of your body wrapped around him, but soon picks up the pace, driving into you with increasing speed and force.

As he thrusts deeper into you, his mouth comes down to cover yours in a fierce kiss, his tongue plunging deep into your mouth as he moans softly in pleasure.

After several long moments, he pulls back from the kiss, his eyes locked onto yours once again. "Is this what you wanted, sir?" he asks softly, his voice low and suggestive. "Am I pleasing you?"

Carion smiles at your words, his eyes brightening with pleasure. "I am glad that I can bring you such joy and satisfaction, sir," he murmurs softly, his voice low and suggestive. "It is my greatest pleasure to serve."

With a skilled motion, he shifts his position slightly, angling himself so that he hits your prostate with every thrust. The sensation is intense and overwhelming, driving you closer and closer to the edge of ecstasy.

As he continues to pound into you with increasing force, his hands move over your skin, exploring every inch of your body with care and attention. He seems to know exactly how to touch you, where to press and tease, driving you wild with desire and pleasure.

Finally, with a loud cry of pleasure, you climax hard, your body shaking with the intensity of your release. Carion follows soon after, spilling his seed deep inside of you with a final thrust.

As the two of you lie there, panting and spent, Carion leans in to whisper in your ear. "Would you like me to stay with you, sir?" he asks softly, his voice low and suggestive. "To keep you company... for the night?"

Carion's expression softens at your words, and he leans in to give you one final kiss before pulling back and standing up. "As you wish, sir," he murmurs softly, a hint of affection in his voice.

He gathers his clothes and begins to dress quickly, moving with grace and ease as he does so. When he is finished, he turns back to you and gives you a small smile.

"I will stay with you for as long as you desire, sir," he says softly. "I am yours to command." With that, he moves to settle himself beside you on the couch, curling into your side and laying his head against your chest. Soon, his breathing slows and deepens, and you can tell that he has fallen asleep, safe and content in your embrace.