#tebanam

blukrown:

This fic is inspired by this artby@s-kinnaly<3

Also available onAO3

WARNING! This fic contains: drug use and sex scenes

If any of these upset you, please do not read!

Dusk in Al-Daida had the town busy with people.

Travellers were arriving and signing into accommodations. Customers were getting to their last stores before they closed. And the town’s pubs and restaurants were alive with the sound of talk, laughter and clinking metal and glass.

The sky was dyed purple as the torches along the streets were lit, making the buildings almost glow yellow in contrast to the sky. Tebanam partially wished he knew how to paint, just so he could copy the sight onto canvas and preserving it.

It was too bad Tebanam was not in the mood to enjoy such a view.

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AAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!

This certainly brighten my day! Thank you soooo much!! I love it sooooo much~!! This makes me want to explore Fahim! :D I love the conversations and the smut! >3 You’re amazing! Thank you so much again!

Can’t wait to read some more of your content with Teb!

blukrown:

Chapter 1-Chapter 2-Chapter 3-Chapter 4 -Chapter 5

Also available on AO3

Conflicting Notions

Blood covered Faris’ hands and his chest heaved. He could feel his body shaking from adrenaline as he looked transfixed at the mess that covered his hands. Even with the cheers of the Colosseum crowd, his heartbeat was deafening in his ears. Thumping as he looked down to the ground before him.

A man lay limp at his feet. Curled up with both hands clutching onto the sword that still stuck out from his side.

Dead.

“No …” Faris gasped, taking a step back in the sand. “I’m not supposed to be here. N-No I don’t-”

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I’m so happy~! I needed this~!! Thank you sooo much~!! I love the inner conflicts within Faris! And the subtle planning from Jazo ;3 Also love the talk between Vidar and Faris; giving me some good ideas for Vidar and Kanisa story :3

Thank you sooo much again!

blukrown:

Also available onAO3

This fic was commissioned by @mrneighbourlove, thank you so much for the support and giving me the chance to write about your character!

“Shit, come back here!” Leere called out to the small figure she was chasing down the busy market streets of Oshmel.

Five minutes after entering the town and she had already gotten lost as well as got her bag stolen. It was rather embarrassing. She might have the thought to shame herself for her naivety if she weren’t pelting after the little thief.

Leere had been walking down the crowded streets, map in hand. She had been trying to find her accommodation for the coming evening when a young child had approached her. Clearly a local, the kid offered his help in leading Leere to her destination. She wasn’t one to object to a kind offer, especially not when she secretly needed it, so she let the boy lead the way.

Leere had just started thinking about giving the youth a few rupees for his trouble when another kid jumped her. Snatching her rucksack with all of her things and running off, while the first boy vanished into the busy streets.

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This is soooo awesome! I love it all! You got Teb and Leere perfectly here! Damn teb, chill on your hunt (≧▽≦) thank you sooo much for writing this!!

mrneighbourlove:

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I love it~!! Thaaaank you~!!! This is such a lovely Christmas Present~!! Teb always getting himself into tight situations, but hey, nothing ventured nothing gained XD 

THANK YOU SO MUCH AGAIN!

This fic is inspired by this artby@s-kinnaly<3

Also available onAO3

WARNING! This fic contains: drug use and sex scenes

If any of these upset you, please do not read!

Dusk in Al-Daida had the town busy with people.

Travellers were arriving and signing into accommodations. Customers were getting to their last stores before they closed. And the town’s pubs and restaurants were alive with the sound of talk, laughter and clinking metal and glass.

The sky was dyed purple as the torches along the streets were lit, making the buildings almost glow yellow in contrast to the sky. Tebanam partially wished he knew how to paint, just so he could copy the sight onto canvas and preserving it.

It was too bad Tebanam was not in the mood to enjoy such a view.

Tebanam was at a dead-end, his leads to the Garai tribe had turned up nothing but a deserted and burnt village west from town. Miserable with the loss of his last lead and from the rather disheartening sight of an old civilisation turned to ash left Tebanam in a less than happy mood.

Melancholic and more than tired, he walked the streets. Undecided on whether to call it a day and skip dinner or find something, yet be surrounded by the more than rowdy crowds which occupied all the nearby establishments.

Tebanam’s eyes looked over each storefront as he passed, nothing really grabbing his attention until he was near the end of the business side of the city.

A store looking just like all the others did not catch until Tebanam’s eyes lay on the sign scribbled above the door.

Tattoos.

They were uncommon in Hyrule, seen as only for criminals or barbarians. Not banned but frowned upon enough that it almost was. Tebanam had seen one or two since leaving his home but not enough to have a defined opinion on the practice. He only knew the process and it sounded painful. But Tebanam had to admit to himself that it had always interested him, mainly on the concept.

The designs displayed in one of the windows were all beautiful. All only using black ink, the designs were simplistic yet cleverly crafted. It caught Tebanam off guard, as the tattoos he had seen up to this point were coloured and a bit more flamboyant in its presentation. These, although still easily catching any onlookers’ eyes, we’re very much a style that would be one of a kind to the artist themselves.

“Something catch your eye, sir?” A voice called to him nearby, making him look away from the display window.

A man stood in the doorway to the parlour, arms crossed over his unclothed chest and leaning against the stone wall as he watched the prince. He was a local race, light green coloured his skin all the way to his fingers as they shaded yellow and brown. Dark yellow horns grew from his forehead and a matching coloured tail occasionally flicked where it hid behind him. Black eyes, with no distinction between his iris and pupil, matched his short black hair. A golden hooped earring glittered at his earlobe and black tattoos marked his arms and chest, the ink delving past his trousers’ waist.

Clearly, he was the owner - or at least an employee - of the store. And clearly, he was very attractive. Tebanam had taken probably a bit too long to answer as he had become too occupied in staring at the man.

“Oh, uh,” Tebanam straightened, “Your shop caught my eye. I just thought the designs were interesting.”

The man smiled, “Thank you, I have more of them inside if you want to have a look.” His head nodding to the door behind him.

Tebanam knew this was surely a business tactic to win him over but he was interested and the handsome man was just as good to look at as the sketches. “If you wouldn’t mind,” He said, waiting for the man to let him through before stepping inside.

The inside was cozy, the yellow stone walls and red of the cushions and lounging chairs made for a relaxing environment that surely reassured customers. That and the smell of smoke lingering in the air. Tebanam had even coughed, his lungs inhaling the rather saturated air and making them heave.

“Sorry,” The man apologised, “The pain-killer we use leaves a very distinctive smell, I was airing the place out when you arrived.”

“T-That’s fine,” Tebanam said, his throat a bit raspy as he soon came to recover.

Now that Tebanam looked closer, he could see the hookah stands at occasional intervals. With a glass basin, a cylindrical channel pushed the desired smoke from and into the tube that leads to the mouthpiece people used to inhale from. The prince had seen them before but had never had the chance to try them, more out of not having the time rather than the worry of the effects.

Tebanam had followed the stranger to a section of the wall near the entrance, the surface of it covered in multiple pieces of parchment with similar sketches and artworks etched into the paper. They were all very impressive and it took a moment for the Gerudo man to look over them all before one specific in specific grabbed his attention.

A drawing of a hawk, wings spread with the bird’s head turned to see the profile of its beak. Its wings wide and making Tebanam look to each feather and appreciate the detail.

The design reminded Tebanam of his hawk, Atem. Which was a gift from his older brother, Ralnor, before he left Hyrule. He had sent his bird of prey off to find his dinner, planning to have him return when he got back to the inn Tebanam was residing in while he was in town.

“You like it?” The tattooist asked beside him.

Tebanam nodded, “Yes, it’s beautiful.”

The man sounded flattered, “Thank you, I would have to agree as well. It’s one of my best pieces actually.” He pulled the piece of parchment off the wall and gave it to the guest to have a closer look. “I want it to be on the person’s back, the wings,” His yellow finger tracing the drawing, “Would be part of both the bird and the person. It’s just too bad that no one has requested it. I suppose it’s not to anyone’s taste.”

Tebanam nodded, returning the piece to its rightful place on the wall.

“If you don’t mind me asking,” The man began, furthering as Tebanam turned to him, “What is your name?”

“Sorry,” Tebanam said with a guilty smile, “How rude of me. I’m Tebanam.”

“Tebanam, huh?” The tattooist voiced the name, his husky tones very much suiting the prince’s name as he called it. “I’m Fahim.”

Tebanam was almost about to reach out his hand to shake but realised that was not part of Al-Daida customs.

“Would you like to stay for a bit, Tebanam? I have a bit of the painkiller left in one of the pipes. Perhaps we could share it?” Fahim’s voice was soft, his eyes looking Tebanam up and down in such a way that it made the prince’s skin ripple with goosebumps.

Feeling an air of flirtation from the man, Tebanam smiled slyly, “Aren’t those for your customers?”

Fahim let out a chuckle, “Only a fool would not try out what they supply their customers.”

Tebanam, not one to object and especially as such a nice-looking man was offering, accepted the invitation.

Settling down on some cushions nearby, Fahim joined him with one of the pipes. Resting the mechanism on the carpeted ground, he came to rest beside Tebanam.

The small embers glowed in the near dark salon as Fahim tested the first breath, inhaling deeply as his chest rose with it. Smoke then lazily left Fahim’s mouth as he exhaled.

Tebanam could tell the man was used to the drug, taking in the smoke like it was the freshest of air. There was something entrancing about watching the stranger easily take the puff in and out. The smoke leaving his mouth and slowly disappearing into the already diluted air. He had to send a silent prayer to the goddesses that he could even ever partially replicate it as he was handed the mouthpiece.

He knew that it would be rough on the lungs so, braving a slow, deep breath, he waited a moment before exhaling. Perhaps his throat was dry or he exhaled too quickly as a raspy cough ruptured his chest. It was nothing too severe but Tebanam felt his cheeks burn out of embarrassment for not looking as comfortable with the vapour.

Fahim did not seem too bothered, giving a reassuring smile as he took the mouthpiece out of Tebanam’s hands gently. “Not too familiar with this?” He inquired.

Swallowing in his mouth, Tebanam guiltily shook his head. “No, not particularly.”

“It’s all about pace, don’t breathe out too fast or too slow,” Fahim advised, taking the mouthpiece between his lips, eyes staying on Tebanam as he let the drug-riddled air leave his mouth in a lazy cloud.

Fahim almost coached Tebanam with the next few inhalations, encouraging him when he finally achieved a breath that did not have him coughing. By which time, the symptoms of the drug were soon growing to affect the traveller’s body and mind. His fingertips felt oddly numb yet still somehow overly sensitive, his whole body soon feeling on the brink of pins and needles. His thoughts were like the mist that left his mouth, fleeting. The only solid thoughts that held strong were, to impress the handsome tattooist with his hopefully adequate use of the pipe and knowing that he was soon becoming indescribably aroused.

The two men did not really talk, apart from Fahim’s occasional chuckle or remark, they were in comfortable yet stiff silence. But even so, with each huff of discoloured smoke, they seemed to closen where they sat in the closed tattoo parlour.

Tebanam could not even remember when but Fahim’s hand somehow found its way to be on his arm, tracing the faintly popping veins on the inside of his arm.

“Your skin is very beautiful,” The tattooist said, finishing his turn on the pipe and handing it to Tebanam. His fingers softly tracing unfamiliar shapes into the prince’s tanned skin.

Tebanam didn’t know what to say to that for a moment. He had always despised his colour. After all, being half-Gerudo and half-Hyrulian had him holding onto an identity which he only shared with his siblings. The other noble children they had known had mocked and teased them for it. Saying they had the blood of a murderer in their veins. That they were dirty and didn’t belong in the white bricked walls of Hyrule castle.

Even Tebanam’s lover, who he had left on rather unagreeable terms. Had never much thought to mention his skin. Sure, he had said he was handsome but in a sense that had Tebanam thinking, he meant it in the standards of the Hyrulians.

“You think so?” He asked, half not even listening as his eyes wandered around the building.

“Yes,” The tattooist asserted, “A tattoo would really suit you.”

The smoke left Tebanam’s lips, as his eyes looked around the now-familiar room. His gaze finding itself lingering on that beautiful artwork of the hawk which had fascinated him when he had first entered.

Licking his dry lips, Tebanam looked back to the artist where he lay near him. Dear goddesses, he was gorgeous. The more the smoke misted his mind, the more Tebanam wanted nothing more than to impress the man. Even if it were doing something that he would probably regret when he sobered.

“Do you think …” Tebanam began, ignoring the still logical part of his brain who tried to shut his mouth, “Do you think I would suit that tattoo?” Indicating with a nod of his head to the display wall.

Fahim looked to the specific artwork, then back at Tebanam. His bottom lip dragging between his teeth as his eyes surveyed him where he sat. The prince wanted to curse the man, he knew just how to make him squirm and blush.

“I think …” He began, moving ever so slightly nearer to him, his hand which had rested on his arm roving upwards to stop at his shoulder, “You’d be perfect for it. But … It can hurt, even with the drugs.”

See? It’s not worth it! Just give up while you’re ahead! , his inner voice pleaded with him. But it was no use, his body begged for more of the man’s touch and more of the smoke in his lungs. And Tebanam was never one to stop from getting what he wants.

“I can handle it,” Tebanam said, smiling slyly.

Fahim grinned back, “Very well.” He then got to his feet but didn’t step away from where they sat, “The private room has my tools, is it fine if we move in there?”

“Sure,” Tebanam said cooly, or as cooly as he mustered as his heart doubled its beat.

Walking to the back of the room, there were two doorways exiting the salon, both hiding the other side with red curtains. Fahim led the way through the curtain on the right, Tebanam just behind him.

The private room was similar to the main parlour. Red cushions covered the floors and the visible mist still lingering in the air. The only difference being that one wall had a large window of glass, yet unlike more expensively made glass, the see-through material was seeded and could only define simple shapes and colours if one were to look through it. Without the candles, the room was quite dark, the only source of light being the bright moon which managed to shine through the mangled glass.

Leaving Tebanam for a moment, Fahim returned with the hookah they had been using just a moment ago and a bag - surely containing his equipment. “Best to keep you inebriated.” He explained, before lighting the candles to brighten the room and settling onto his knees on the floor to prepare his things.

“Could you get undressed then?” Fahim asked, occupied with organising his needles. “There should be towels on the table over in the corner if you need to cover yourself.”

Tebanam looked to the table, a small stack of clean, folded towels ready to be used to hide a customer’s modesty. But his eyes darted back to the tattooist, a mischievous thought coming to mind.

Without moving from where he stood in the room, Tebanam, very much still intoxicated from the fumes, stripped naked, leaving his clothes where they had fell on the floor. He did not feel much different without his clothes. In fact, he may have felt even warmer.

Fahim must’ve noticed something was off, as he looked away from his equipment to the prince. Tebanam at least expected some sort of surprise to show on the handsome man. Instead, his eyes looked the Gerudo man head to toe, a look of appreciation at the view curling his lips.

Being bare and not even bothering to cover himself up, Tebanam would surely be dying from embarrassment if he was sober. But luckily, he wasn’t. A giddy shiver threatened to make him wriggle at the feeling of the other man’s eyes looking over every inch of his skin but he managed to tame it, although not without feeling his heart thump loudly in his ears.

With such ease he even surprised himself, Tebanam made himself comfortable on the mattress of cushions in front of the tattooist. On his stomach, he lay his head on the side to watch the stranger. More than ready to begin.

Fahim only needed a minute or two to tinker with his needles and ink before he was ready. Before beginning, he gave the mouthpiece of the pipe to Tebanam. “I sure hope you’re not sensitive to pain.”

Making sure he had more smoke in his lungs, Tebanam smiled, “I might be sensitive but I’m sure with this I’ll be fine.” Taking another puff while Fahim settled near his chest, needles and small hammer in hand.

“Well, best to share.” The tattooist said, taking the pipe out of the prince’s hands and taking a drag from it as well.

Flirty words so easily came off of Tebanam’s tongue, he would think he had a good amount of wit. “You sure you’re sober enough to do the job?” Unconsciously licking his lips at the very sensual way he breathed out the smoke.

Fahim huffed, giving the pipe back. “Trust me, my hand is always steady.”

His voice had Tebanam wanting to shiver again, his words going right down to his crotch. Luckily, Tebanam was so inebriated, it would appear he would need more than that to have his excitement show.

“First,” Fahim said, the sound of a cork popping from a nozzle resounding in the small room, “The ointment. Helps weaken your skin’s sensitivity as well as any reaction you might have.” Pouring the liquid onto a small towel, he lay the fabric flat on his back. His hand then dragged the cloth across the scape of his shoulders, followed by his shoulder blades, then down to his lower back, wetting the prince’s skin with the chilling concoction. His fingers then touched his skin, dragging over his back as he smeared the ointment in. It almost felt like a massage by how strongly his fingers pulled at Tebanam’s muscles.

Focusing first on the shoulder blades, Fahim’s fingers pressed and caressed over the prince’s upper back with great skill. So good in fact that Tebanam let out a soft sigh as he felt his muscles continue to relax. With most of the ointment now settling into Tebanam’s skin, Fahim had not quite finished. His hands soon trailed a bit further down his spine, strong fingers sliding over the sides of his torso only to stop near his dimples. Tebanam was certain that the tattoo was not going to reach all the way down to there but he did not find a reason to object. Fahim’s fingers spread as they lay over the small of the recipient’s back, making Tebanam yearn for them to go just a little further down to grope his ass.

“There,” Fahim said, his voice soft as if his words were only for Tebanam’s ears as he finally pulled his hands away. “Now to begin.”

Tebanam’s skin still felt tingly from the fumes he inhaled, but he still felt the tattooist pencil trace his lines over his back. Even just the soft lead of the tool being very sensual as it drew over and around the muscles of him back.

The prince’s mind was now far gone from that salon room, too high on the smoke and Fahim’s delicate touch to realise he was speaking to him.

“Tebanam,” The tattooist called, his face so close, the prince could see each individual black eyelash that curtained the black eyes. “I’m about to begin.”

The Gerudo prince smiled lazily, “Go right ahead.”

Whether still playing cool or actually so numb on the painkiller to not even feel fear, Tebanam did not know. But the smile Fahim gave him made him consider covering his whole body with the damn ink.

Tebanam thought to kiss him, wrap the tattooist’s lips in his and take him where he lay. But his body was weakened and sloth-like from the smoke. The prince did not follow through, but his mind most certainly did.

Fahim’s hand pressed against the closest of Tebanam’s shoulder blades, “Relax.” He whispered and touched the mouthpiece of the pipe to the prince’s lips.

With that last puff of smoke, Tebanam was finally gone.

Although his body stayed, feeling faint but sharp needle pricks of pain on his back, his mind was up in the smoke-filled air. Not tired enough to sleep but not sober enough to stay awake, Tebanam only listened to the faint chink of hammer on the head of the needle. And the occasional shuffle of the tattooist as he moved around the prince where he lay. Engraving the Atem-like tattoo in Tebanam’s skin.

The prince could almost see it, the wings wide on his back that would almost flap as he flexed his muscles.

His mother would surely kill him.

The thought made Tebanam’s mouth quirk in a smile. How he missed her. And his father. Not to mention his many brothers and sisters.

It had been nearly a year since the youngest prince had left his home to the lands beyond Hyrule, far away from home. Upset by the abduction of Jazoh Spegeil and overwhelmed by the many people who now knew his darkest secret, it was only half a day after the noble boy had left that Tebanam had his rucksack on his back and was planning to leave as soon as first light.

Of course, Ralnor and his mother knew of his plans. Queen Zelda had said she had heard about it from the kitchens, where Tebanam had ordered multiple canisters of water and non-perishable foods. Ralnor had said one of the stableboys told him, as they had prepared his horse with travelling saddle and horseshoes.

Zelda had begun a half-heartened attempt to not let him leave but she had seen the look in her son’s eyes and all further objections died in her throat. Ralnor, on the other hand, had only smiled. A sad but proud smile. That was when he gave Atem.

“He can help you hunt and he knows how to send letters in case …” Tebanam’s older brother paused as his voice faltered for just a moment. “In case you want to send us word.”

Tebanam wondered how they were all doing now.

Coverog was surely busy being taught by father on the ways of the kingdom, while also having to care for his wife who was pregnant with her second child. Ralnor would be teaching his three daughters how to read by now. Orana had supposedly left on a pirate ship. And Kanisa was freezing but happy in the northern country named Uskar. At least, that was what Tebanam had heard in the occasional letter Atem brought back.

The prince felt a dull pain in his chest. He missed them.

From what he could tell, his family still loved him and missed him as much as he did.

Perhaps it was time for Tebanam to go home. Not for good but to at least see his family. Hug his brothers and gossip with his sisters and laugh with his father. He even missed the castrations his mother would give him when he did something reckless or stupid.

The train of thought that whirled through the clouds above towards Hyrule castle, past seas and mountains and canyons, was brought to a halt by a voice.

“Done.”

Although Tebanam’s eyes were open, he had not truly seen. As when he finally found the sense to look around the room where he lay, he was shocked to find the tattoo parlour filled with the sharp light of daybreak. Tebanam had laid upon the cushions, dropping in and out of a faint sleep while Fahim had worked through the night.

There was still a cloud of smoke that filled Tebanam’s head as he slowly lifted his head but his body was sober. His back, thanks to the ointment and the skin never having a true memory of the needle, was raw and sensitive as he moved the muscles of his back. It would hurt for at least a few more hours but even then his skin would be sensitive to the touch for surely a few more days.

“How does it look?” Tebanam asked, looking to the tattooist where he sat beside him.

“Perfect.” Fahim smiled, his eyes darting over the artwork that was now etched into Tebanam’s tanned skin. The twinkle in his black eyes and a pleased smile on his lips made Tebanam, again, consider covering his whole body with tattoos, if only for the man to look at him at every inch like that. “You look good.” His tone was heavy as he leaned nearer.

Fahim did not seem tired for a man who had been awake all night, in fact, he seemed almost invigorated at the sight of the new ink on Tebanam’s back. The only evidence of his all-night endeavour was the shadows that darkened the green skin under his eyes.

A pang of guilt weighed heavy on his stinging shoulders. He had not even paid the man for his work, yet he had worked all through the night to finish his artwork.

“Thank you,” Tebanam said, “How much was it? I have to pay you.” The prince tried to sound determined, he didn’t want to get swindled into an outrageous price.

Fahim’s smile lingered as he refused the prince’s offer, “No need. You’ve already done that.”

He turned slightly where he sat and picked up a large hand mirror and gave it to his customer. “Look at it.”

Not moving from where he lay, fearful to bring any more unwanted pain, Tebanam looked at the tattoo’s reflection.

It was perfect. Just as Fahim had said.

Wings wide along his shoulders, the hawk was mid-soar along Tebanam’s back. The head of the bird and its sharp beak was at the top of his back and would easily hide behind the collar of a tunic or shirt. The tail feathers reached the end of his chest. With every breath, the hawk seemed to breathe too.

Fahim could tell Tebanam loved the tattoo, his voice close as he too admired the inked bird on his back through the mirror.

“Seeing my masterpiece there on your beautiful back is more repayment than anything else.” Fahim murmured, his voice cool and like honey in Tebanam’s ear.

Tebanam was surprised by Fahim’s adoration of the needle and ink but he was more than a little bit happy that the praise was aimed at him.

Tebanam’s eyes appreciated the local artist’s face again.

Goddesses he was handsome and nothing like any man the prince would’ve seen in Hyrule. And it made him want to kiss him and feel those attentive hands touch everywhere.

“Surely …” The Gerudo prince began, giving his lips a lick. “There is some way I could repay you.” His hand reached out and covered one of the tattooist’s own.

Fahim’s twinkle of artistic euphoria changed to one of mischief. “Oh? And what would that be?”

Tebanam took a chance. Holding his breath, he kissed the tattooist on the mouth.

The prince had the impression that his forwardness would take a second to be received and accepted by Fahim. But clearly his attempts at flirting had given the tattooist enough of a clue at what he was about to do. Because when Tebanam had took that risk, Fahim was more than ready to reciprocate.

He was a really good kisser, Tebanam realised abashedly. But even if he did not mind Fahim taking the lead in the enveloping and caressing of their lips with his expertise, it made Tebanam feel a quick flash of fear that maybe his own technique was not on par.

But as the seconds turned into minutes, Fahim did not pull away to criticize or tease Tebanam on his skill. In fact, Fahim wanted more as one of his hands went to hold at Tebanam’s chin. Holding him in place as he deepened it with a bold poke of his tongue at Tebanam’s lips. Tongues soon connected as lips had done. Tebanam soon shifted as his heartbeat began to thump loudly in his ears while warmth travelled down his body.

Remembering Fahim’s kind yet firm hands on his back earlier as they pressed the ointment into his skin had Tebanam yearning for those hands to touch everywhere else. The very thought of it had him trying to raise his body up from where he lay, only the sting of his freshly inked tattoo made Tebanam outwardly hiss, pausing the kiss.

“S-Sorry,” Tebanam muttered as he tried to ignore the pain and sit up, “Just give me a second.”

Fahim’s laugh was soft and so was his hand as he helped Tebanam go onto his side. “Don’t push yourself.”

“I’m not pushing myself, I’m just getting comfortable.” The prince said, trying to sound confident as his skin burned.

He now lay on his side, one of his arms on the ground with his head resting in the palm of his hand.

Fahim let out another laugh, soft like smoke. “Well, you’re more comfortable in more ways than one I see.”

Tebanam did not quite know what the tattooist meant, but when he followed Fahim’s eyes downwards he soon understood.

The prince was not erect but he was not soft either.

Tebanam silently cursed himself for forgetting to at the very least try to restrain it. Clearly the smoke from the pipe still clogged his brain.

Tebanam felt his face burn, not by needle and ink but embarrassment. Opening his mouth he was about to make up some excuse or, at the very least, apologize but his words died in his throat when Fahim spoke.

“Don’t worry, I’ll make you even more relaxed.” His voice was that same low husk that made a shiver run down Tebanam’s spine.

The prince tried for a confident smirk, “By all means.”

Fahim’s lips were against him in an instant, slow and fervent as before. But it did not last long.

Fahim soon came to lay by Tebanam’s side. And he could soon hear the tattooist’s breaths grow heavier and heavier, their lips needing to separate periodically to take in air.

To keep Fahim interested and to encourage him to go further, Tebanam let his teeth nip at his bottom lip. It may have been the prince’s imagination but he believed it worked as he felt Fahim’s smile against him and the hand at his chin begin to rove.

Fingers like the softest of vapours, the tattooist’s hand brushed down over the side of his body. Trailing from neck to waist and by his hips, Fahim pulled at the prince’s waist to press against his own. Legs brushed him and he felt a similar bulge hidden under the trousers Fahim still wore on his person.

A low groan came from Tebanam, too aroused to force down, while his own hands clutched onto the Fahim’s sides too in an effort for more of his body to touch his.

It felt like a millennium until Fahim’s clever fingers touched his now aching shaft and Tebanam could not stop the faint groan that escaped him. The free hand held Tebanam’s chin, forcing him to stay at the tattooist’s lips as the other wrapped around his length.

Firm but not tight, Tebanam was certain Fahim had done this all before. He moved his hand up and down the shaft, occasionally squeezing the head and taunting the slit with a stray thumb. Tebanam was quickly he was peaking, it had been months since he had any encounter and just Fahim being … Fahim. It was not helping at all.

“F-Fuck,” Tebanam groaned, grasping onto Fahim’s forearm to encourage him to quicken.

The tattooist did not seem to care for appeasing Tebanam’s need. His pace tauntingly slow, dragging a whimper or grunt for each pull at the shaft.

Tebanam’s hips soon pressed into Fahim’s grip, wanting more of the warm touch. Now, mind blurred with lust instead of smoke, Tebanam did not have much concern for seeming desperate.

Tebanam was nearing the cusp, slowly but gradually, his mouth hanging open as lewd noises continued to come out. “Fahim I-I’m close, please.”

Then suddenly, the hand was gone.

Tebanam let out a faint whimper, his cock almost saw by the abrupt halt in his gratification. Before he could ask or maybe even get angry at Fahim in stopping, the tattooist got up onto his knees and sat. Legs crossed, Fahim only smiled as he spoke.

“You said you’d repay me, right? You wouldn’t want to finish too quickly do you?”

Tebanam tried to calm his breaths, although his chest still heaved. He was right, he didn’t want to finish now and miss what might be more than just an awkward handjob. So Tebanam shook his head.

“Good,” Fahim murmured, “Now come over here and help me.” And patted his knee.

Tebanam gulped, his eyes trailing on the obvious bulge in Fahim’s pants. Only the smallest of guilty thoughts flying by as he realised the tattooist had probably not touched himself up until this point.

So the prince rolled back on his stomach before lifting up his torso to hang over Fahim’s lap. With no objections uttered, Tebanam knew he had the go-ahead. His fingers shook as he began to untie the binding of Fahim’s trouser’s body still giddy from arousal and coupled with the nerves of what he was about to do.

Fahim’s length sprung out from its restraints once there was an opening and Tebanam was not at all disappointed. A good and manageable size coloured a light soft green like the rest of Fahim’s skin.

“Go on then,” Fahim urged, one hand going through the prince’s hair.

Tebanam gave an experimental lick to the head of the red flushed head, tasting the familiar salty droplets that dribbled from the tip. Hearing the faintest of gratifying huffs, Tebanam continued. Taking the tip into his mouth, he softly sucked it. One hand bracing on the group to keep him upright and the other taking a soft grip around the base of Fahim’s shaft.

The prince would not admit it, but he wasn’t the best at blowjobs. Sure, he would gladly do it but he would not say his main bedtime trick was making love with his mouth. However, he had a technique and with the soft chorus of encouraging sounds coming from Fahim, he knew he was doing something right.

Tebanam began to move his head, taking in small increments of Fahim’s length at a time. The still untouched base being comforted by his hand. His tongue welcomed the bottom side into his mouth and he occasionally hollowed his cheeks as he pulled his mouth away, making the crudest of noises on the way.

The hand at Tebanam’s head did not push, per say, but encouraged Tebanam to take more and more inside him and with enough time he eventually took all of Fahim’s cock in his mouth. Tebanam now looked up, watching the tattooist grit his teeth to stop any open mouth moans.

“Good, t-that’s it.” Fahim encouraged, his unused hand lifting to his mouth to lick the digits, covering them in his own saliva before scaping down the planes of Tebanam’s back. “Allow me.”

Tebanam, mouth full, tilted his rear upwards as best as he could. More than happy to feel those fingers just where he wanted them.

Fingers warmed by Fahim’s saliva, he circled Tebanam’s rim until the entrance was slick. And when the tattooist seemed satisfied, he carefully pushed a finger inside. Tebanam let out a low groan, the noise surely feeling wonderful on the shaft inside his mouth as Fahim let out a moan of his own as his finger began to move.

It had been a while since Tebanam had felt a hand, whether his own or someone else’s near there. Usually, when arousal struck him, he was quick and concise. What with being busy exploring the mysteries of his ancestry and just not feeling up to waisting up to an hour gratifying himself, he hadn’t touched himself there in ages.

Although Tebanam would love to just pounce on Fahim and get to the final act, knowing Fahim cared to prepare him made him more than happy to please him.

The finger inside him was just as experienced as he had imagined it, finding his prostate with ease and pressing against it with each push. It was not long before Fahim then added another. And by then, Tebanam’s breaths were now out of pace and heaving, nose flaring as he still persisted in taking the lot of Fahim inside him.

His rear wriggled, shaky with pleasure as the fingers effortlessly unravelled him and whines and moans continued to vibrate in his throat.

The third finger was inside him and Tebanam, not even touching his own shaft, was getting close again. Blissfully uncaring that his technique was becoming sloppy as the fingers gratified him.

Mouth now too occupied with gasps and whines to keep Fahim fully inside his mouth, Tebanam licked and sucked on the shaft and tip. His hand doing as best a job he could. “F-Fahim,” Tebanam whined, his tongue dragging over the head. “Mmph- I-I’m almost - hah - there.”

“We can’t go having that,” Fahim muttered, slowing the scissoring, thrusting fingers before pulling them out.

Tebanam did not stop the soft whimper at the feeling of the emptiness inside him. Although comforted by the indication that he would be filled so much better in a meer few moments.

“H-How would you like me?” Tebanam asked boldly, desperate to keep things moving.

Fahim’s smile was warm and wide, his eyes looking from Tebanam’s face to his back. The tattoo still stung but it felt almost pleasant as the slight bit of pain usually did during sex.

“Hm,” Fahim hummed, “I would very much like for you to be on top of me. Although with how sore you’re back might be we can do something else.”

“N-No, I’ll be fine,” Tebanam answered quickly, the image rooted in his mind.

Fahim looked to Tebanam again, silently checking that he was serious. He seemed satisfied. “Very well. Usually, I wouldn’t tell customers to exert themselves but …” He gave a faded smile. “I wouldn’t want to spoil my customer’s fun after all.”

His words were low and husky again, oh he would have fun alright.

Tebanam gingerly sat up. “Lie down then.”

Fahim obliged, taking up the space Tebanam had once lied on with his head resting on a pillow. The prince then crawled above him, pushing Fahim’s pants down his legs and - with his help - tossing them away into a corner.

Tebanam was about to mount him facing towards the tattooist but Fahim stopped him with a hand at his arm.

“Would you mind turning around? I like that view much better.”

Tebanam thought it was an odd request but the thought of Fahim revelling in the sight of Tebanam taking him all in kept his mouth shut.

“Sure.” The prince muttered with his own attempt at a Fahim-like smile.

Around he went, back facing Fahim. Tebanam looked down and saw, to his silent delight, that Fahim’s cock was already shining with Tebanam’s saliva from earlier. So, without much delay, Fahim held his length steady as Tebanam slowly sunk down on top.

Tebanam did not usually receive, maybe because the handsome sex workers, merchants, travellers and strangers presumed he liked to give due to his height and overall muscular physique. And in a way, he did prefer it. At least then he did not have to worry about preparing beforehand. But there was something special about taking, being filled to the brim and, on most occasions, giving the reigns to the dominant partner to do with you as he pleased. Although Fahim’s hands held a firm grip on his hips, in this position, Tebanam had control and he did not much mind it.

Tebanam let his hips lift carefully, letting the head of Fahim’s cock drag along the walls just as his fingers had done earlier. Fuck it felt good, and Tebanam could tell Fahim was enjoying it too. Fingers squeezing at his sides as a languid sigh came from behind him.

Sinking down, sheathing all of Fahim inside, Tebanam saw stars as Fahim pressed to his prostate again. The prince keened as a warm shiver travelled up his spine.

Tebanam began a slow pace, being out of practice in this position and overall wanting to adjust to the new position so as not to finish too soon. His hips lifted and dropped, as well as rolling from time to time for extra measure. His breaths, again, were soon heavy and his panting was very often interrupted with a moan.

Tebanam braced himself by holding onto Fahim’s outstretched legs, ensuring Fahim’s view was just that little bit more enjoyable as he arched his back.

“Fuck your gorgeous.” Fahim murmured. His hands, still holding strong, travelling up Tebanam’s chest. Tebanam let out a whimper, both being pleased by the tattooist’s praise but also as Fahim’s fingers carefully touched the raw skin of his tattoo.

Out of practice, Tebanam was soon growing exhausted. Although still within bliss, his legs and arms soon shook from strain and weariness.

“F-Fahim,” Tebanam called, trying to look over his shoulder to the tattooist. “C-Can we move?”

Fahim, from what Tebanam could see, had been staring earnestly at the tattoo. Watching the prince’s shoulders wriggle and stretch and cause the tattoo to ripple. It took a moment but he soon came out of his reverie.

“Alright. Get off for a second.”

Tebanam pulled his hips to a halt before tugging himself off Fahim’s cock. Tebanam’s own length twinged with grief at the loss as he lifted off of Fahim’s legs to let him move.

Fahim got to his knees, soft fingers sliding up Tebanam’s back before he gave a kind kiss to the prince’s shoulder.

“Hands and knees if you would.” He whispered right at his ear. Tebanam only nodded, going into position, he looked over his shoulder to watch Fahim.

The tattooist rubbed his own hand along the shaft, eyes admiring Tebanam’s rear and back again. Biting his bottom lip, Fahim sheathed himself inside Tebanam’s entrance once more with a low grunt.

Now with the reins in Fahim’s hands, the tattooist seemed ready to end it. Striking up strong and deep thrusts. His hips slapping against Tebanam’s asscheeks he fucked him.

Tebanam’s cock ached, needing attention. The prince, although closening, could tell that Fahim would reach his end far before Tebanam’s, at least from what he could tell. In spite of the fact that Fahim’s thrusts were as powerful and satisfying as when they started, Tebanam could feel the fingers at his waist squeezing and could hear Fahim’s breaths become more like panting with each second. Moving a hand under himself, Tebanam took his own length in his hand, easing the attention his body needed.

“I’m c-close,” Fahim grunted, one hand lifting to touch Tebanam’s freshly-inked back again.

Tebanam moaned at the faint pain, his hand desperately quickening it’s work as he too neared the cusp.

Soon enough, Fahim’s hips buckled. His thrusts sputtering to a halt as Tebanam felt the tattooist released inside him. Tebanam whined, so stimulated with the sudden warmth that filled his insides that he shortly after spilled into his own hand.

The two men fell quiet, faint, heavy breaths, the only sound as they took their time coming down from cloud nine.

In time, Fahim pulled his gradually softening cock out and sat back. Tebanam felt a slight sense of pleasure as he felt some of Fahim’s cum dribble out of him.

“Well,” Fahim said with a lazy smile on his lips, “I think that more than makes up for the tab.”

Tebanam let out a wry laugh. “Pleasure doing business with you.” He then sat down, combing the loose hair back into the small bun at the back of his head.

“Be sure to come back for another tattoo. I would more than happily have you as my canvas.” Fahim continued, eyes straying over Tebanam’s form.

“Noted,” Tebanam answered with a weary smile.

“Tebanam Zel Dragmire! What in the name of the goddesses is that?!”

Tebanam jumped but did not turn around to look to the voice. He knew well who it was. “Oh no.” He whispered.

His mother, Queen Zelda, stormed towards him from the other side of the bedchamber to behold in horror what stretched across his back.

“When did you get this?!” Zelda questioned, her hands touching the now embedded ink.

“U-Um … About three months ago?” Tebanam answered tentatively, fearing just one misplaced word would deserve him castration.

“And you were not going to tell us?!” Zelda shouted, near to shrill now.

“W-Well …” Tebanam began. In all honesty, he wasn’t going to tell her. Knowing his mother’s nature Tebanam was going to guard his literal back for life so as to never got through the surely horrific tongue-lashing he would get for it. “I was going to tell you eventually.”

Another lie. He was probably going to tell his siblings or even his father. But his mother? What a mistake.

Tebanam had arrived at Hyrule castle in the late afternoon. Clothing scuffed from a life of travelling through all types of weather had him being ushered up to his old bedchambers as soon as his mother laid eyes on him - of course after she had cried and held him first. Tebanam had gone about changing while Zelda fussed around the abandoned bedroom, noting the dust and faint smell of mold. It had slipped his mind not to go into the bathroom or at least ask his mother to leave, so he had shown his nude back and here he was.

“What is it, mama?” Orana called, poking her head out from the connected bathroom. Where she had been unpacking the rather dirty contents of Tebanam’s rucksack.

“Yes, what did Tebanam do?” Ralnor inquired, as well. Having been at the far end of the room and giving Atem some attention. “He’s only been here for five minutes mother, surely he hasn’t done anything-”

Obviously, with his mother shrieking at him, Tebanam had not yet covered the tattoo. So when his two siblings caught sight of it, both of their eyes widened.

“Woah!” Orana gasped, moving closer to admire it.

“Impressive,” Ralnor admitted as he followed his sister.

“Where did you get this?” Orana asked, getting a closer look.

“Al-Daida. It’s a pretty popular custom over there.”

“Well, not here it isn’t!” Zelda retorted furiously.

“Oh, what are you shouting about Zelda?” King Ganondorf called as he entered through the main door. A plate stacked with the castle’s freshly baked pastries and newly born fruits.

“Look at it! Our son got a tattoo, Gan!”

“Really?” Ganondorf answered with surprise. Turning to see two of his children crowding around his youngest son.

“Well?!” She spluttered, clearly expecting Ganondorf to be just as furious as she was.

Ganon stretched his neck to catch a proper look at the tattoo before raising his hand in a thumbs up. “Nice tattoo, son!”

Tebanam grinned, “Thanks, Papa!”

“GAN?!” Zelda exclaimed in exasperation.

“Since when have you been interested in tattoos?” Orana asked, stepping away from her baby brother’s back to let Ralnor have a turn.

“Yes, I do recall you not being too fond of pain,” Ralnor muttered, speaking over the growing row between their parents.

“Well, you know …” Tebanam said shiftily.

Orana gasped, “Don’t tell me, someone forced you to do it?!”

“What? No! Nothing like that.”

“He probably did on a dare.” Ralnor offered up with a sly smile.

“No!” Tebanam spluttered. “I did it out of my own free will. I paid for it and everything!”

“Well, it was certainly worth the money,” Orana said with a smile. “It really is beautiful.”

“Yes,” Ralnor agreed.

Tebanam showed a sheepish grin. “He was very good. Steadiest hand in all the city.”

The Zelgan au is created by @figmentforms
The Zelgan babies, as well as Fahim, are created by @s-kinnally
And also special thanks to  @ridersoftheapocalypse for writing the main fanfic about Tebanam, which inspired this fic
Most of their works can be found on AO3, tumblr and twitter

Chapter 1-Chapter 2-Chapter 3-Chapter 4 -Chapter 5

Also available on AO3

WARNING! This fic contains: blood/violence, torture & implied/reference sexual assault

If any of these upset you, please do not read!

Conflicting Notions

Blood covered Faris’ hands and his chest heaved. He could feel his body shaking from adrenaline as he looked transfixed at the mess that covered his hands. Even with the cheers of the Colosseum crowd, his heartbeat was deafening in his ears. Thumping as he looked down to the ground before him.

A man lay limp at his feet. Curled up with both hands clutching onto the sword that still stuck out from his side.

Dead.

“No …” Faris gasped, taking a step back in the sand. “I’m not supposed to be here. N-No I don’t-”

Turning around to run, he felt chains hold him still. The echoes of the dungeons in the colosseum filled with wails, pleas and moans of the innocent slaves.

Faris’ nose stung of piss and blood making him want to hurl. He was stopped from gagging when a sting so harsh he fell to his knees whipped his back.

Laughter resonated in his ears as the crack and sting of whipping soon left his back warm with his own blood.

“P-Please,” Faris moaned, his body shaking in fear. “I d-don’t belong here.” Shutting his eyes as tight as he could, he prayed to any god, goddess or deity to free him.

The pain stopped but when Faris opened his eyes he wasn’t in heaven. But in hell.

Dark and tinted orange by candlelight, floor covered in pillows while the walls were draped with curtains. And a stench of smoke and alcohol made his nose wrinkle. The whorehouse brought a look of sheer horror to Faris’ features.

A hand touched his shoulder, roving down his chest and caressing his pectorals. Another followed, combing through his dreads and tugging harshly on the strands.

“S-Stop it!” Faris objected, turning to look at his assailant but only saw dark walls.

Another disembodied hand touched the small of his back, eagerly travelling to touch his rear and-

“Fuck!” Faris swore as he tried to move his arms but felt two strong hands clench his wrists to restrain him. “Don’t touch me! Don’t you dare!” Faris belowed, fear coating his words.

The hand in his hair pulled harder, making Faris’ head sting. What felt like claws grazed along his scalp as fingers tucked under the waistband of his trousers.

“I don’t belong here!” Faris declared, trying to look around. But all he saw were the whorehouse walls, seeming to enclose him in the already claustrophobic space.

“T-Teb,” Faris whimpered, losing much of his will to fight. “Where are you?!”

He was scared. Horrified. He was like a little deer, shaking in the cold winter with no doe of a mother to care for him. He was a shell of a man. Numb to the whips, the hands and the blood.

“P-please,” Faris implored, as he closed his eyes as tight as he could. “T-Tebanam.”

“FARIS!” Tebanam shouted, hands clutching at the other man’s arms to shake him from his disturbing dream. “WAKE UP, DAMMIT!”

Faris’ eyes flashed open as he bolted upright. His lungs gasping for air as he darted his head to look at his surroundings. His skin was cool with cold sweat while his bones felt as jittery as a leaf.

Tebanam, only a shadow in the darkroom took him into a hug. Squeezing Faris as close to him as he could.

“Shhh,” Tebanam hushed him. One hand holding the back of Faris’ head. “It’s ok. It’s ok. You’re not there anymore. You’re here with me.”

“N-No,” Faris’ voice shook as his eyes still tried to look at his surroundings. As if, at any second, they could change back to the whorehouse or colosseum dungeon. “I-I’m not I was … I was w-with them and-”

“It was a nightmare, Faris.” Tebanam persisted, rocking the horrified man in his arms. “You are far, far away from Al-Daida.”

“Y-You’re wrong,” Faris objected, shaking his head. “I’m a b-brute, a monster, a who-”

“Shut up,” Tebanam ordered, squeezing tighter - if that were possible-. “No you’re not. You’re Faris. You’re my love.” His voice was shaky, clearly off put by seeing Faris so fear-stricken. “You are none of those things. You are a kind and loving man. W-Who is safe and l-loved.” The prince’s voice shook on the last words, as his resolution choked at the sight of Faris continuing fright.

Faris didn’t try to protest anymore. Shivering in his partner’s arms until soon, his stiffened body softened. Letting the warmth of Tebanam’s embrace consume him, he felt tears well up in his eyes. For the first time in over a year, Faris cried.

Tebanam didn’t say a word, only held him close and kissed him until the sorrowful man soon nodded off to sleep.

“Prince Tebanam!” A loud knock echoed past the bedroom door as a servant’s voice called for Tebanam’s attention.

“Yes?” The man called in a groan.

“Your highness and … Faris have been asked to visit Princess Kanisa for lunch.” The voice said, pausing as if to ponder just what to call Tebanam’s lover. “She asked for you both to be by her quarters in an hour.”

“Thank you.” Tebanam responded, waiting for the footsteps to grow faint before looking down to where Faris still lay.

Faris had his eyes shut tightly, as if trying to hold onto the ever so slight chance he could return to sleep. He had managed one proper hour but otherwise, the rest of the night passed in a sort of half-unconscious sleep, where he would faintly feel his mind doze off before a flash of a crowded coliseum, crack of a whip, or the sinister smell of the incense lord Siek had liked before snapping back into dream-riddled reality.

When the bodyguard finally went to open his eyes, he looked up to Tebanam. Faris only needed to give him a glance to know the prince had had even worse luck with sleeping than him. Dark shadows hung under his eyes, clearly visible through the bright light emitting from the curtained window.

The prince was sitting up, book in his lap and back resting on the bed’s headboard. When Faris looked to the paperback in his lover’s fingers, he noticed he was already three-fourths through the rather thickly paged novel. If he recalled correctly, Tebanam had only just started the book the night before, only finishing a few chapters before having abandoned it for sleep. Clearly, he had been reading all night.

“I’m sorry,” Faris muttered, scooting over to rest his head in Tebanam’s lap.

“What for, dear?” Tebanam asked, tenderly stroking the side of Faris’ face.

“For keeping you awake. You didn’t sleep at all after my … nightmare, did you?”

Tebanam was silent, whether thinking or still concentrating on his book, Faris couldn’t tell. “No need to apologise. I’ve never been good at falling back asleep anyway.”

But still, Faris thought, guilt still weighing in his chest.

“Anyhow, I can just go to sleep early tonight to make up for it.” Tebanam said, trying to cheer Faris up. “Besides, we have to get ready to see Kanni.”

“What do you think she wants to talk about?” Faris asked, sitting up to allow the prince to get out of bed.

Tebanam let out a chuckle. “She doesn’t need a reason, Faris. She’s my sister. It’s honestly about time we sat down and talked properly. Hopefully, we’ll get to see the kids too.”

Faris supposed he was right, one didn’t need a reason to want to see family. But it wasn’t like he knew better. The term family was something that was still very foreign to the man. Especially considering where Faris had come from.

The bodyguard could not help but think of Tebanam’s family, how warm and considerate they all were. The Dragmire family was also a tight unit and would very clearly tear the world apart for each other. Faris felt hopeful when he found himself watching Tebanam get ready. His mind wondered if he and Tebanam, if all went well, could create something like that. Create a family. Maybe even with a kid or two. Even with how raw his chest stung from recent events - not to mention the horror of that dream - the concept of Tebanam and him growing old together, happy and content, eased Faris like not many things could.

“Faris?” Tebanam called out, dragging his partner out of his still sleep-ridden stupor. “What’s the matter?”

“What?” Faris mumbled, suddenly alert, blinking as he realised that Tebanam was now fully dressed and waiting for Faris to follow suit. “Oh … Sorry.”

Getting up, Faris caught the look of worry that flashed in the prince’s eyes as he watched him get ready.

“You know we could say ‘no’ to Kanni’s invite,” Tebanam said firmly, watching Faris pull on a white tunic.

Faris could not help but smile. Even if he dreaded leaving the safety and quiet of their quarters, he knew it was the best for both of them. Even if there was discomfort in the thought of talking to people so important yet so unfamiliar.

“I’ll be fine, Tebanam,” Faris said, resting a hand on his partner’s shoulder as if he was the one that needed comforting. “Besides, I’m sure you miss her. You only managed to talk to her a little bit yesterday, right?”

“I suppose …” Tebanam muttered, giving Faris a hand as he climbed into the rather tight-fitting trousers. “But if you want to come back here at any moment, just say. It’s practically all I can do for you while we hunt down the bastard who let word spread.”

“Thank you, Tebanam,” Faris said, turning to wrap his arms around his prince’s neck and giving him a quick kiss. Now more than ever, he had to make sure Tebanam knew just how thankful he was to be here with him.

Even with the mere twenty paces from their bedchamber door, Faris was grateful this part of Hyrule castle was deserted apart from the skittering of a single servant moving from a distant royal chamber. At the very least, he would not have to deal with hearing the horrible remarks of the other occupants of the castle. He only just had to deal with Tebanam’s sister. Easy right?

Well, at first, it was indeed easy.

Kanisa had welcomed the couple into her quarters like they were entering her very own home. Offering them tea and a snack from the assorted platter of baked sweets surely brought up to satiate the growing hunger of her two children.

Kanisa’s bedroom quarters was like a mirror image of Tebanam’s. Except while the younger brother’s windows faced the morning sun, Kanisa’s faced the beautiful garden of the castle two floors below. Without even going to see through the glass, Faris could see the tops of high hedges, well-trimmed vines and flower beds full of colourful petals. The only other difference was that there was two doors that connected to the bedroom, one to a bathroom and  - from Faris’ guess - the children’s room.

The sister Kanisa was beautiful, Faris knew that much. Although taller, tanner and carrying much of her Gerudo father in her, the princess’s true beauty came from her mother. She had the queen’s fine features and kind smile that would have surely been the splitting image of her mother when she was her age. She also had the grace of the queen. She glided more than she walked, spoke kindly but not frivolously and knew the perfect amount of strictness and praise to keep the children from harassing their guests too much. Although that did soon backfire.

Kanisa had clearly invited Tebanam and Faris for the purpose of properly catching up with her brother in addition to acquainting herself with her brother’s lover. But no less than ten minutes after first entering, Tebanam had been dragged into a game of knights and dragons with Kanisa’s children, Kerugan and Audlin.

Both too young to comprehend or pronounce their uncle’s full first name, Audlin called him Teddy, while Kerugan - only a year or two older than Audlin by the looks - felt too dignified to call him by such a baby-like name, as he proudly pointed out, and called him Uncle Teb instead.

Faris, who had worried that since he had never really talked to a child before, had been struck with the horrible realisation that, if the children did not like him, then Kanisa would surely follow? But, thankfully, those fears were soon dashed away. As, after only a few minutes of ogling and invasive yet innocent questions, the two kids were grinning at Faris as much as they did their uncle.

Audlin, who still could not quite enunciate ’s’ excitedly called him Fairy, with delighted giggles. While the mature acting Kerugan went with Uncle Faris. Although the gesture was small, Faris felt a faint smile warming his face at the nicknames they had given him. The children were so adorable, in fact, that Faris was almost completely fine with Tebanam obeying his niece and nephews demands to play with them. The sight of which made Faris’ chest wriggle with a deep sense of love for the man as the prince made the children guffaw with laughter. The only negative to this being now Faris was stuck alone with Kanisa and her surly looking husband, Vidar.

Kanisa, well-trained in the matters of polite conversation, had asked about how Faris was and how he was managing living in the castle - as if this question had not been asked by everyone since he arrived.

Tebanam had let out a playful rawr as his designated role of the dragon and Kerugan foolishly jumped to protect his little sister only to be swiped up in his uncle’s strong arms in an act of kidnap. The Fairy Princess Warrior Emperess Audlin had a small thin wooden sword in her hand and she ordered the nasty monster to let go of her big brother or else.

Kanisa was just starting to ask Faris if they had considered traveling towards Uskar when the 'or else’ revealed itself to be Audlin whaking Tebanam’s shines with her mock sword until Tebanam fell to his knees.

“Kanni! Fairy Princess - ouch - Warrior - Ow! - Audlin is so - oow - cruel!” Tebanam fake sobbed, still holding the wriggling Kerugan above his head so as the child would not be hit by his sister’s furious swipes.

Kanisa had given Faris an apologetic look before getting to her feet to help her brother. The mother scolded her daughter for playing too rough, her son for laughing at it and then at her brother for encouraging them. But this did not spoil the fun, as a matter of fact, since Kanisa soon became the new damsel in distress as Audlin said Tebanam was too powerful even for her, so she needed her brother’s help.

In spite of how greatly bemusing it was to see Tebanam laughing hedonistically as he buried Kanisa in a pile of the children’s soft toys, Faris soon realised he was not alone. Vidar, who had been silent while Kanisa had talked to Faris, still sat in his chair. And, although for a moment, the two men had quietly smiled over their respective partners, Vidar broke his stoic silence.

“I heard those rumours.” Vidar said curtly, a hint of an accent in his voice.

Faris stiffened immediately. Taking his eyes away from the heartwarming scene at the other side of the room. And, for the first time, Faris properly looked at Vidar.

With blue-ish skin, dark thick hair in a braid, he most definitely looked like a man from a world very far from the room he sat in. He, like Faris, was covered with scars of a life of fighting. But the bodyguard noted how they were different from his. Mainly of wild animals and other horrible beasts of the northern world, Faris had heard, unlike the man-made swords and knives that marked Faris’ forearms and whip slashes in his back. Even so, the man was clearly a warrior, with the heavy muscles that bulge in his Hyrulian tunic and worn, callous covered hands. Although intimidating, Faris had to admit that Vidar was also a good-looking man, even with the slight frown furrowing his brow and prettily embroidered eyepatch - surely made by his wife - covering his right eye.

Faris did not reply to Vidar’s words, too shocked to speak but also feeling cautious. He had learned in these past few days to be wary, especially now that there was someone who was spreading his secrets.

Vidar did not seem to need Faris to speak. The sentence appeared to be more of a way to get his full attention rather than to insult or tease him. As he then furthered, “I know it is not anything like what is said about you but I went through very much the same.”

Vidar paused to scratch as his well kept beard, and Faris’ slight frown was all he gave him. So the Uskarian continued.

“I met Kanisa on the first diplomatic visit of Uskar to Hyrule. We kept our … relationship a secret at first. But when I returned and soon took their dear princess away to Uskar, the people of Hyrule made up all kinds of rumours. I was called a rapist, a barbarian, a beast. They believed I had seduced, stole or even kidnapped Kanisa and held her for ransom.”

Vidar’s body did not betray his anger apart from the deep set frown that adorned his face. “My first time returning back to Hyrule after marrying Kanni and having Kerugan … It was awful. I did not fear them but I definitely watched my back at each turn, as if I might do something wrong, more horrible accusations would be made. I can only be thankful those same whispers weren’t about Kerugan. They just believed him to be an innocent baby born of …” Vidar paused as his lips clenched together in disgust.

Faris, hoping to not force the man into saying anything he didn’t want to, spoke. “Then … How did they change? I’ve only heard great things about you.”

Vidar smiled for the first time, it suited him much better than the curt look he had shown since they arrived. “Time, mostly. But it helped to have Zarazu.”

Faris recalled that Zarazu, Covarog’s wife and the future queen of Hyrule, was born outside of the Hyrule realm too. Once an island full of magic, calamity had struck and had forced the already small population of Lorleidians into refuge in Hyrule. A bunch of magic users and dragon tamers, now that Faris thought about it, would have surely been a horrifying sight for the dignified council members of Hyrule.

“As the future queen and mother of Coverog’s children, she fought for the first few years to ensure the refuges, both Lorleidians and others were welcomed and treated as fairly as any Hyrulian.”

“Just like that?” Faris asked confusedly.

Vidar let out a huff of a laugh, “No, nothing that simple. Although having the queen and Ralnor is a huge help, most of it comes from proving doubters wrong.”

Faris did not seem satisfied with this explanation. In fact, the bodyguard frowned. This very same notion had been offered up by Queen Zelda but …

“How can I prove I’m not a slave … When they are right?” Faris asked. It was the first time he had asked the question that had been poisoning his mind for hours.

Vidar frowned at this. “Are you saying you’re still a barbarian then?”
“What?”
“And a murderer? And a slave? And a whore? Are you still those things?”

Hearing the words from a near-to-almost stranger made Faris extremely uncomfortable but he understood Vidar’s point.

No, he wasn’t anymore. He was a free man. Not just that but a bodyguard to a prince and a lover to that very same man. He was someone who had become a better and a more whole person since those days before Tebanam had freed him.

“N-No,” Faris admitted. Looking to the teacups that sat abandoned in their saucers on the table they sat at. The dregs cold yet still making small waves in the cups from the trundling of children’s feet nearby.

“Then how are they true?” Vidar asked. Looking right into Faris’ eyes when he braved a look at the man. “If you’re not any of those things, then prove it.”

Faris opened his mouth to question Vidar’s logic only to be reminded that, out of all the people who had told him this fact, the Uskarian man was the only one who had actually experienced it.

“How … ?” Faris asked hollowly.

How could one prove a negative? When for all tense and purposes, they were true. Faris was disheartened to realise that Vidar had lowered his spirits more than he had raised them.

“It is … A grueling task, I have to admit. If it was a fight, I, or you, or Zarazu could easily win it but … Living and being with royalty is a fight very different from anything else. Although us partners don’t carry the weight of the realm on our shoulders, they do.”

Vidar let his eyes drift to look at his wife. Mouth clenched shut and eyes closed, the princess was shaking with repressed laughter as she pretended to be in a deep sleep. Audlin, now the evil witch, had made the pretty damsel fall into a deep sleep and only the brave Kerugan could save her. Tebanam, meanwhile watched, clearly a prisoner that the witch would deal with later.

“Anything we do, whether good or bad reflects back on the family. And endangers or aids them. Whether big or small. It is a reality we have to accept if we want to be with a princess or prince.”

Faris was silent. Unsure what to say.

Looking to Tebanam, who cheered for Kerugan as the child defied the evil witch of a sister, he found himself torn.

Faris was in love with the man. The kind, energetic adventurer he had met that hot day in the colosseum dungeons in Al-Daida. The man who had freed him from his masters and promised food, clothing and shelter for only his sword and knowledge of the local culture. The man who had treated him as an equal, a companion and later a lover.

Faris realised that he was not exactly sure if he was in love with the prince. And the thought made him uneasy.

The fact that Tebanam was a prince was, indeed, shocking at first but, Faris might not have completely comprehended what that meant. He had an image of a bright gold crown and matching throne, with mountains of the finest of fabrics, shiniest of treasures and sweetest of delicacies. He had never much wondered or asked about what that life may actually entail.

“What I’m trying to say,” Vidar said, his voice calling Faris to look back at him. “Is that … Although it’s bad now, it will get better. If you are a good and free man, who loves Tebanam, then those rumours will die down. Keep being the man you know you are and people will realise they were wrong … or at least not talk against you. It is hard, and … tolling at times but,” Vidar’s eyes flickered again to Kanisa and his two children. “But it is worth it. Every second of it.”

Tebanam’s laughter was then loud, sounding like the sweetest of music to Faris’ ears.

“So don’t give up.”

Tebanam landed on the ground flat on his ass for the second time that afternoon. Yelping as his tailbone hit the ungiving earth of the training grounds.

The sky was a faint orange, the sun a few hours from vanishing over the castle walls. The area for knights and guardsmen had been vacated as most were still on shift or busy eating dinner. Leaving the sound of two men huffing and puffing to be the only noise apart from the whistling of summer wind through the single tree in the area.

Tebanam, rubbing his backside, was soon covered by shadow as Jazoh stood above him.

Sweat glistened on the nobleman’s forehead yet he did not show any sign of being out of breath.

Tebanam let out a sigh. “I’m sorry I’m not much of a challenge for you.” A wry smile playing at his lips.

“Not at all,” Jazoh smiled back, “I’m just happy you volunteered.”

Tebanam snorted, “I volunteered to vent out my anger. Not get my ass handed to me.”

“Then why didn’t you ask your bodyguard to spar with you then?” Jazoh offered, extending his hand to pull his companion up.

Tebanam ignored the odd choice of word as he took his friend’s hand to get to his feet. “Speaking of which, I really should’ve invited Faris along. At least then you would’ve had a worthy opponent.”

Jazoh frowned slightly as he let go of the prince’s hand. “Then why didn’t you?” His voice was cold as he turned around to pick up Tebanam’s sword, a falchion.

“Well … He’s been going through a lot at the moment.” The Gerudo prince remarked as he took the sword from Jazoh’s hand. “He was pretty tired from playing with Kanisa’s kids and I don’t think he likes the idea of leaving our area of the castle. You know … With all the rumours and secrets flying around.” There was then Faris’ face when Tebanam had come over to him and Vidar at the table, how confused and troubled his eyes were when he looked at him. But he would not tell Jazoh that.

“But that’s it, Tebanam.” Jazoh said flatly, his eyes not on him but looking at his wooden sword. “They’re just rumours. It’s the only thing the servants have to do really. Gossip and make up stories.”

“But still,” Tebanam muttered, frowning as he warily watched his friend. “Those things really hurt him. It’s been so long since I’ve seen him that upset … It’s honestly taking all my strength not to punch the next person I hear talking about him.” The prince squeezed his hands around the handle of his sword, remembering just how shaken his love had been that very morning. It scared him a little, to think a man so strong could become so scared.

Jazoh let out a huff, “Punching is for stableboys and knights who drop their swords.” He brandished his mock weapon aloft. “You are a prince. Just say the word and you could get rid of all of them.”

Tebanam should be surprised by Jazoh’s threatening words but he knew better. He did not mean kill them, just punish or confront. A younger Tebanam might even agree with him. Yet, he felt uncomfortable with his friend’s idea of stopping the whispers. Enough so for him to end the conversation.

“Another round, then?” Tebanam asked as he eyed the sword the nobleman clutched in his hand. “Go easy on me?”

Jazoh gave a handsome smile that wrinkled the beauty spot under his eye. “Oh my dear Tebanam, you told me to never go easy on you, why should I start now?”

“Because my ass hurts and I’ve already been brutalized by my niece.”

Jazoh let out an airy chuckle, “Audlin?”

Tebanam let out a laugh too, “Yeah, how about you teach her a few tricks?”

“Tempting,” Jazoh remarked with a look of consideration, “Then again, I’d have to get past that father of hers.”

“True,” The prince agreed, “Although, I have a feeling Vidar would happily have his kids taught by you.”

“In any case,” Jazoh said, breaking conversation. “Shall we begin?”

“Lets.”

Just as the words left Tebanam’s mouth, the shorter man striked. His thin rapier blade jumped out to hit Tebanam in the chest to only, by the last second, be blocked by the back of Tebanam’s sword. The clunk was loud in the empty grounds as Tebanam used his strength to parry the frail sword away. Sadly, his reflexes were nothing like Faris’. Who would be in for the attack as soon as the Hyrulians’ guard was down. Instead, Tebanam had taken too long to move, giving the expert swordsman time to find his balance and fix his stance.

“Not bad …” Jazoh muttered, looking over Tebanam’s form. “I can tell you’ve had practice. You’re definitely stronger.” The Hyrulian then rolled his right shoulder, the one that had felt the full blow of Tebanam’s parry.

The Gerudo grinned, proud to hear Jazoh’s hint of surprise. “I have travelling to thank for that. Carrying all my things on my back every day turns out to be a really good way to gain muscles. Well … That and fighting off thieves and monsters and so on.”

“Don’t get too cocky, Tebanam.” The nobleman said sternly. “I don’t want to go wounding this new pride of yours.”

“Oh please,” The prince laughed, “I’ve still got a few tricks up my-”

His opponent was suddenly gone.

Taking a stride much bigger than one for his size, the man moved to Tebanam’s left.

“Shit!”

With his sword not in position to block - as he had stupidly let down his guard to quip at him - Tebanam had no way to stop the sword from slicing him half open. So all he could do was dodge the surely painful swipe from the would-be blade. Feeling the faint whoosh as the sword cut through the air where Tebanam had previously been.

Jazoh, expecting a definite hit, had not been ready for the unexpected swerve out of reach and followed through. His sword going past his front to swing around to his side.

This was his chance.

Taking the needed two strides to reach him, Tebanam took it in one. Pulling back the wide-bladed wooden sword to cut at Jazoh’s weak point.

But just when Tebanam’s first win against his ex-sword teacher flashed before his eyes, it was gone.

His blade had been stopped.

Not by the expected clothed side of the nobleman but rather the slender blade of the Hyrulian’s rapier. The sleeves of his freshly pressed tunic rolled up neatly to his elbow, Jazoh’s thin yet defined pale arms jittered slightly under the impact of the larger man’s cut. But he held steady.

Tebanam knew, then, that winning by brains was impossible. He had never outsmarted the man, both in sword and in wit, ever since they were boys. But Tebanam had something he didn’t have last time.

The muscles of the prince’s arms ached from the previous fights but he demanded them to hold. Pushing his fake falchion against the rapier, the thin sword shook under the newfound strength. Tebanam could see the man sweating, gritting his teeth as he tried to hold his ground. But Jazoh’s grip on the blade was weakening. By the second, both hilts shook as the smaller man strained to keep the prince’s blade from going any closer to his yet unhit body.

Tebanam, perhaps too hopeful at attaining his first win at last, forgot a simple lesson.

When it came down to strength, committing to pushing the opponent down to submission only worked when done quickly. At this rate, Jazoh would find a way to escape-

Just as the thought came to mind, the force that had once been pushing back against his falchion was gone.

Jazoh had released the weakened block and as quick as ever, moved out of Tebanam’s way. What with the prince’s weight and stance leaning heavily forward, the Gerudo found himself falling forwards.

Quickly, he ducked his head and Tebanam had just enough time to tuck his body down and roll on the ground. Nonetheless, he only had a moment to get back on his feet before Jazoh was onto him once more.

The nobleman knew that anymore moves that challenged Tebanam’s sheer strength would result in his loss. For that reason, Jazoh went with a barrage.

Leading with the blunt end of his slender sword, the Hyrulian swordsman tried to poke right past Tebanam’s guard to hit him in the chest. And the prince’s only saving grace was that the width of the side of his blade was enough to hinder the individual jabs. The falchion, however, did not stop the opponent from nearing and forcing Tebanam to retreat with each painful looking thrust.

While Tebanam was focused on blocking each of the well intentioned hits, Jazoh was taking it all in his stride. Even beginning to talk to the prince as the air still filled the clunking, whacking and thumping of the two swords clashing.

“Sometimes I wonder what would’ve happened if I wasn’t sent away.” Even with the din of the barrage, Jazoh’s voice was clear.

It took all of Tebanam’s effort to listen to the man while still keeping his focus. But even with his brain frantically instructing his arms and legs to react to each trying jab, his mind still questioned why Jazoh was talking about such a topic so suddenly. The prince could only think that this was one of his friend’s backhanded tactics, just like the swipe at Faris’ legs and the kick of sand he had seen just two days prior.

Hoping to use this same trick against him, Tebanam indulged in the conversation. Even as his feet still took cautious steps backwards.

“No, I haven’t really thought about it,” Tebanam said gruffly, blocking a particularly energetic cut near his shoulder.

“Would it be rude for me to say I did?”

“No … Especially from how hard your life would’ve been on that farm, I wouldn’t blame you for wondering.”

“Well, if you don’t mind me saying, I believed-” Jazoh paused.

Tebanam had taken a lucky chance to parry when he caught sight of a weaker strike. This had turned out to be a faint and the prince had played right into the nobleman’s hands. Jazoh let the parry miss his blade to leave Tebanam unguarded and the wooden rapier’s edge at his throat. It looked like only a twig up close but the Gerudo had a feeling that even a needle would be deadly in the experienced hands of Jazoh Spegeil.

“- that we would still be together.” Jazoh continued calmly. As if Tebanam had merely interrupted him with a sneeze rather than a try to win the losing spar. “And by that, I mean still in love.”

The game had been won. Why Jazoh continued on with this conversation, Tebanam did not know. But he had a feeling that this was his friend’s way of finding where they stood.

It worried him to think this may cause Jazoh to feel hurt or upset. But the prince knew it was best to speak clearly and honestly now, or he may as well never speak at all.

“You think so?” Tebanam asked. Letting his sword hang at his side. Indicating that he would yield. “I honestly wouldn’t know.”

The prince fanned himself, the overexertion of the fight soon leading to a loud thumping of his heart and for the heat of his racing blood to catch up and starting to heaten his skin.

“Why?” Jazo inquired with the slightest of frowns.

“Well,” Tebanam began, looking down to his attire.

With most of his clothes having been disposed of when his mother caught sight of the pile of worn and staining clothes he called his closet, the only remnants of the collection he had left were on his person. A worn old pair of shoes that Tebanam had implored his queen mother to leave only after explaining how new shoes would bring blisters and calluses before fitting, and thick heartily-sewn trousers a brown so dark the queen looked over them as new. The tunic he wore was new, however. The fabric so soft and new that Tebanam sweated right through it. The prince had also worn a vest which lay under the shade of the single tree after being abandoned after only a few minutes into sparring.

Walking to the lonely shade of the tree, Jazoh following beside him, Tebanam continued.

“Well, I still wanted to leave. To travel, you know.” When under the refuge of the leaf-heavy tree from the hot setting sun, Tebanam pulled the tunic over his head to free his clammy chest to the occasional wind that blessed the grounds. “I always wanted to go. Eventually. You leaving was a catalyst for it. It gave me an excuse to leave and chase my dreams.”

Tebanam did not look at his companion. Busying himself with folding the found vest and sweaty tunic into a pile in his lap. He took his time with it, too guilty to look his old friend in the eyes.

Even without looking to Jazoh, he could hear his hurt. Or maybe it was anger? The prince could not tell, as he could only note the flicker in his voice because his words did not indicate much. “And you believe you would leave me here?”

“Well … Not for long. I would’ve visited like I do now. Besides,” The Gerudo braved a look at Jazoh, hoping this would give him some sort of comfort. “I would’ve let you come with me, if you like.”

There it was, that furrowed brow again. And the dark, almost cold look in his eyes as he looked at him.

“I don’t quite understand.” The Spegeil said, raising his head to the castle walls that surrounded all sides. No, he was looking past that. To the world outside of Hyrule castle. Maybe even outside Hyrule itself. “I don’t understand what you like about leaving here. I mean … What’s worth leaving all of this?”

“That’s where you’re getting confused, Jazoh.” Tebanam said, keeping in mind to sound kind as he spoke. “It’s nothing about leaving or losing. I’m free out there. With a hood and modest clothing, I’m just a tall stranger in the crowd. A man with just a little more gold in his pocket and just a little more knowledge. And in any case, I gain so much from going out there.” Tebanam could not help showing the excitement, remembering just how much of the world he had not yet explored. “There are whole worlds full of history, culture and stories. Although I search to recover the histories of my people, the lands and people I meet along the way teach me so much more than any of the books in the castle’s library could ever offer.”

The prince had let his eyes trail off. Looking, just like Jazoh had done, over the wall. To the cities, towns, shrines, caves and crypts he had yet to explore. The thought of Faris being there beside him. Protecting him when his idiocy got the better of him, telling him off when his eyes wondered on either men or a useless expensive item, laughing at his jokes and his foolishness, blushing at his compliments and kissing him back when Tebanam kissed him.

When Tebanam looked around, Jazoh was so much closer than before. Or at least he thought he was. A man could surely sit in the middle of them earlier, in the space Jazoh had left between them, now Tebanam could see very well the details of his once lover’s face.

He was very good looking, the prince was reminded. With the obvious beauty spot under his eye standing out on his pale, yet faintly freckled face.

A younger Tebanam may have almost swooned at the sight of the mature and cool looking nobleman before him. Now, well, when he saw how close the Hyrulian was he almost jumped out of the way. And by the manner those dark eyes darted between his own to his lips, made uncomfortable goosebumps wriggle up the skin of his arms and neck.

Turning his head, he quickly got to his feet.

“Welp, we uh better get cleaned up then if we don’t want to miss dinner.” The prince said, trying to feign an air of indifference. As if he didn’t notice Jazoh moving in for a kiss. “Will you be joining me in the bath house then?” Tebanam did not look at his companion, not wanting to see whether disappointment or annoyance lingered in those handsome eyes.

Jazoh only needed a moment before replying. “Yes, I suppose we shall. You go on ahead, I’ll clean up.”

Tebanam had the thought of offering to help or just wait for the Hyrulian to finish but the concept of staying any longer with Jazoh alone made him apprehensive. Especially when he thought about Faris, alone in their quarters. So Tebanam only nodded and made his way out of the training grounds.

Not once looking back.

Jazoh’s prince left his shirt and vest behind. Surely so desperate to leave that the striped clothes had slipped his mind. The Spegeil did not mind, however.

He waited until the footsteps of Tebanam were gone before picking up the two pieces of clothing. The vest was a dark blue with gold embroidery around each hole and button. It had suited him very well. With his white tunic and dark pants, short red hair and brandishing his sword in their first of multiple bouts, he looked like the prince he should rightfully be.

Then again, the same design had been worn by that barbarian warrior Tebanam saw fit to call his love. The thought of that man dancing in a blue this shade, with the Hyrule prince in his arms made Jazoh want to rip the very cloth apart. But he knew better.

Tebanam was not stupid enough to forget his clothing.

Laying the vest on his lap, Jazoh took up the tunic.

It was a common nobleman style tunic, of a fine enough fabric it could only be owned by the higher class. The strings that had been untied dangled over the fabric as the nobleman remembered just how handsome the prince looked for the few moments without his shirt on.

Once again, the thought of Faris, getting to see Tebanam in such a way caused a venomous fury to bubble in his chest. And once again, he did not let his hands tear the fabric in his frustration.

Instead, he lifted the sweat infused top to his face and breathed in the scent of it.

Jazoh could not quite explain the scent but whatever it was, it smelled like Tebanam. Not of some musk or perfume or the reek that surely emintated from Faris’ diritied pores. No, it smelled just as he remembered.

It was the same as the last time he had detected it. The last time they had embraced.

Foolish teens thrilled with the idea of being heard but never caught, suspected but never seen. Kissing and fondling even as footsteps approached. Adventurous hands and gifted soft moans as a door flew open.

The recollection made him both sad and angry. How foolish he had been.

If he had only tamed his own daring and convinced the prince to not take the risk. Tebanam’s bedchamber would have been the headquarters of years of such activity. And yet, they had been caught. And Jazoh was sent away. The last thing of Hyrule he saw was the peak he could see through the carriage window before his father had hit him. It had been of the sun rising on the intimidating build of wood and stone that he would not return to for over five years.

Jazoh could easily recollect what he had thought then.

I’ll be back. I’ll be back for you.

Even after finding himself back in the mirrored halls and tall walls, Jazoh still had not achieved what he had sworn all those years ago. But not long now. It was only a matter of time.

This fic is based on the Zelgan au by @figmentforms

The Zelgan babies & granbabies, as well as Faris and Jozah, are created by @s-kinnaly​ and @ridersoftheapocalypse

And special thanks to @ridersoftheapocalypse  for writing the main fanfic about Tebanam and Faris, which inspired this fic

As well as @quietpastelcoloursfor their writings on Vulkar and Kanisa

I highly recommend you look at their content on this to have a better understanding of the story

WARNING! This fic contains: attempted roofying/drugging & attempted sexual assualt

If any of these upset you, please do not read!

Also available onAO3

This fic was commissioned by @mrneighbourlove, thank you so much for the support and giving me the chance to write about your character!

“Shit, come back here!” Leere called out to the small figure she was chasing down the busy market streets of Oshmel.

Five minutes after entering the town and she had already gotten lost as well as got her bag stolen. It was rather embarrassing. She might have the thought to shame herself for her naivety if she weren’t pelting after the little thief.

Leere had been walking down the crowded streets, map in hand. She had been trying to find her accommodation for the coming evening when a young child had approached her. Clearly a local, the kid offered his help in leading Leere to her destination. She wasn’t one to object to a kind offer, especially not when she secretly needed it, so she let the boy lead the way.

Leere had just started thinking about giving the youth a few rupees for his trouble when another kid jumped her. Snatching her rucksack with all of her things and running off, while the first boy vanished into the busy streets.

Although it did take her moment to realise just what had happened, she was soon in hot pursuit of the second child. She might not  be able to punish the bait but at the very least she could recover her things

For how much she was growing to hate the brat, she didn’t want to endanger him or other civilians around him by using her magic. She would, unfortunately, have to do this the hard way.

The kid quickly turned out of the busy main streets and ducked into a quiet alleyway. Leere had thought this would give her an advantage with her long legs but the child seemed to have knowledge with the area and still kept a good distance between them.

“Stop! Thief!” Leere called, hoping she might grab anyone’s attention. “Get back here dammit!”

The kid kept close to the left side of the alleyway, clearly ready to skid into a turn down a different laneway in the next few paces. But to Leere’s great relief, a tall man poked his torso out from the corner, to see what all the commotion was about. And the kid crashed right into him.

Leere restrained a smile as she caught up to the rascal. Catching her breath, she made sure to first snatch her bag back before the little kid could scuttle off.

When Leere turned to thank her unexpected aid, she noticed the stranger seemed unfazed by the collision. He really was also very tall, with at least two heads more height than Leere. Unrecognizable, it wasn’t until she looked to the man’s face - marked with a wide, excited grin - that she realised who he was.

“Teb?” Leere asked, pleasantly surprised to see her youngest adoptive brother in a place like this.

“Leere!” Tebanam grinned widely, sweeping his older sister into a hug. “What are you doing here?”

“I could ask you the same thing!” Leere answered, welcoming the embrace.  

“So you were going up to Kahmel as well?” Tebanam said with surprise as he finished his meal. “Don’t tell me, you were going after the rumoured treasure in the town’s shrine.”

Leere let out a chuckle, “I’m guessing you had the same idea?”

“Well yeah,” Tebanama nonchalantly nodded. “But I was also going up there for research.”

“Oh?” Leere said, pausing the forkful of food she was about to eat. “This is about that distant relative of the Gerudo, right?”

“Yeah, the Garai.”

Oshmel, the city Leere and Tebanam currently occupied, was a border city. Just a few minutes by cart from the perimeter of Hyrule, this town was a mix of all cultures. It was a city filled with locals, travellers and full of people from nearly every race in the land. The settlement lived at the summit of a great mountain, one which hides within its craters an old, deserted tribal village, known as Kahmel. Some people believe the people who had occupied the village died by a plague, others by wild animals and others still believed they had been cursed. Either way, no one bothered going up the mountain. After all, nothing was up there accept the sad, abandoned ghost town.

For all the travelling the two of them did, this was their first time meeting on the road. Perhaps it was only a matter of time until Leere would run into Tebanam but it did come at a good time.

About half a year ago, Tebanam and Leere - as well as all their other siblings - had returned to Hyrule castle to celebrate the birth of Covarog’s first two children. Leere loved being home with her family, she would stay there forever if she didn’t feel the call of adventure.

It had been two years since Tebanam had lost Jazoh - a noble boy taken away from court for being caught having a sexual relationship with the young prince - and Leere and her fellow adopted sister Rinku had only meant to help Tebanam.

For being away from Hyrule for so long, the youngest son of Ganondorf had not seemed to recover from the loss of his partner. The sister’s had sought to help Tebanam and comfort him. But at some point, they must’ve upset him.

Leere could not remember the exact reason but Tebanam had stood up - towering over his elder sisters - and looked Leere right into the eyes and spat, “You’re only depressed simply because you want attention! My feelings aren’t something I can easily turn off like yours, Leere!”

Rinku, furious at Tebanam’s statement and intending to defend her sisters, had countered, “She’s only trying to help you, Tebanam! You only travel because you lost your fuck toy! As if that’s a good way to cope!”

Tebanam had looked furious, but the pain of hearing his eldest’s sister’s words cut him deep enough to shut his mouth. He only huffed and stormed out of the room, choosing to leave before he said or heard anything more he may regret.

Leere had left before confronting Tebanam about it. Although she didn’t say those things, she still should’ve at least given him a positive farewell.

However, Tebanam happily talked about his travels, Leere could tell that he did not hold any sort of grudge against her.

“Remember that set of armour I gave papa?” Tebanam asked his pompous smirk wide. “He keeps it on display in his office, y'know.” Leaning back in his chair, the half Gerudo man puffed out his chest in pride.

Leere let out a snort, “Not last time I was there. Yours was missing the greaves, remember? So it’s an incomplete set.” Leere loved teasing he brother and by the pitiful bummed out look on his face, she was looking forward to giving him worse. “Mama likes the golden fan I gave her.”

Tebanam snorted, “Yeah but what’s the point of a fan if you’re not going to use it? Mama’s not a shower like Papa either.”

That shut Leere right up, not that she minded.

Hyrule castle held the largest collection of armour, antiques and artifacts in the land. All starting with King Ganondorf, the passion for treasure hunting had been passed down to many of his children. Both Leere and Tebanam were both proud competitors of a non-existent competition to see who could bring back the best discovery for their parents. As if her parents could love her any less for not finding a prettier treasure than Tebanam, Leere still could not quite let this immature contest go.

“I have a … question for you.” Tebanam said, distracting Leere from her walk down memory lane. Leere gave an inquisitive look, which seemed enough for her brother to continue. “You know how you can transform, right?”

Leere frowned, she could almost see the gears in Tebanam’s head whirring. “Yeah? What about it?”

“Would you be able to say … transform into a man?”

“Well yeah, it’s a pretty easy spell actually. Even Mama can do it.”

“Although the idea of our dear Mama as a man sounds really funny, that is a subject for a different conversation.” Pausing to hear Leere let out a chuckle in bemusement, the brother than continued. “Do you still remember it? As in, can you still do it?”

“Yeah … I guess.” Leere’s eyes then squinted in suspicion. “Where are you going with this?”

“Well …”

Having found Tebanam’s hotel, they had retreated to his room.

It was rather small, what with the large king-sized bed taking up a large amount of space. But Leere didn’t have time to judge Tebanam’s choice in accommodation when her brother was hurrying her along.

“Alright,” Tebanam said, locking the door so no one could enter. “Now let’s see what you can do.”

Although still unaware of Tebanam’s plan, Leere obeyed her little brother’s wishes. With a string of non-Hyrulian words, it only took a few seconds before she disappeared behind smoke - an aftereffect of shape-shifting magic. Once the smoke cleared, Leere spoke.

“Did it - Woah!” Leere began before clutching at her throat. Her light and effeminate voice was now low and gravely. “My voice!”

“No way!” Tebanam said, his face covered with shock and awe. “It worked! I mean, you look exactly the same but … But a man!”

Going to the hotel room mirror, Leere was greeted by an adult man in her reflection. Her face was just as pale, eyes just as red and hair just as long. She even still had the beauty spot below the left side of his lip. But there was no mistaking it, she had become a man.

A tuft of brown facial hair covered her chin, a strong jawline and obvious Adam’s apple made her look like a normal Hylian man.

“I’m honestly surprised,” Leere said as she turned around in front of the mirror. “I haven’t used this spell in years. Not since I was a kid.”

Then again, that was when she was young. Where there wasn’t really a lot of difference between a prepubescent boy and girl. But looking at herself now, she would honestly not recognise herself.

She could already tell she was a bit taller but only a little, as she compared herself to her mixed-raced younger brother. Leere also felt stronger too, her arm muscles easily bulging out of the shirt she wore.

Now that she mentioned it, her clothes did seem rather tight. Especially around her crotch.

“What the heck?!” Leere shouted at the sight she saw under her pants and underwear.

Tebanam did not seem to feel any shame in joining in and sneaking a peek. And before Leere had the right mind to slap him silly, he was cackling.

“Bahahah!” Tebanam roared, holding his stomach. “I-It’s like an acorn! Ahahaha!”

Leere glared at her brother, “Shut it! I’m not a giant Gerudian like you, OK?!”

But nothing seemed to reach Tebanam. He was in a fit of uncontrollable laughter, hunching over as he almost seemed to be in physical pain. Even with Leere - softly - punching him, it took Tebanam a good few minutes to recover.

Wiping his tearing eyes, the young prince sighed. Standing tall, he gave Leere another look over.

“Man, you really are a man, huh? I wouldn’t even know it was you if I saw you.”

Leere couldn’t help but feel proud. Raising an arm and flexing her new muscles. “Are you doubting my magic, little brother?”

Tebanam chuckled, “As if, I know my place.”

Leere huffed, “So you should.”

“But I’ve gotta say,” Tebanam said, walking a circle around Leere with a hand at his own chin. “You look like the sort of guy I would go after.”

“Ew, gross.” Leere frowned in disgust.

A look of excitement grew on Tebanam’s face. “You know what?” He said excitedly, his eyes wide with excitement. “Let’s go out!”

“What?” Leere blanched, “Why?”

“Why not!” His voice filled with enthusiasm. “Let’s see how long your spell lasts!”

“How?”

“Let’s go to a gay bar!”

“Wha-” Leere began but then shook her head. “No way! They’d definitely know.”

“Trust me,” Tebanam said, patting his, now, brother on the shoulder. “They won’t notice a thing!”

“Wait a second,” Leere said, stopping Tebanam in his tracks. Pointing a finger defiantly at her brother, “This was what you were planning from the start!”

“Nu-uh!” Tebanam objected, “I want to … test your magic and …” He was clearly fumbling for an excuse worthy of his plan but with no success.

Leere crossed her arms over her chest. “Come on, what’s going on?”

Tebanam sighed, lifting an arm to ruffle his short, bright orange hair. “Well, I may have, kinda, sort of, got on the bad side of a bartender at the gay bar and got into a fight.”

Leere let out a long sigh, shaking her head. “Should I ask?”

“Let’s just say that you should never hit on a bartender’s sidepiece.”

Leere shook her head in disappointment. But this did sound a lot like what her brother would do.

“I’m not going, Teb.” Leere said, not helping but sounding sympathetic despite Tebanam’s stupidity. “I’m not going to be your bodyguard just so you don’t get your ass beaten.”

“C'mooooon,” Her brother drawled, “Pleeaasee? Have you never wanted to experience what it’s like to be a man? Better yet - a gay man? Besides, I’m sure it would be fun!”

Leere pursed her lips and tried to stand for her own convictions. But - for some unknown reason - seeing her fully-grown baby brother plead and implore her made her question her own decision.

Letting out a long exaggerated sigh, Leere rolled her eyes. “Fine! But I’m not the one who’s going to save you if you get into any trouble.”

On the other side of town, surrounded by brothels, bars and shifty-looking hotels, Oshmel’s gay bar was alive with raucous laughter, chatter and music. Men of all ages and races gathered in and around the building. All seeming to be having a great night.

Leere shuffled where she stood at the entrance of the gay bar. She wore a spare pair of Tebanam’s old clothes. A bit too big, Leere had made do and created an outfit that suited her new physique.

Leere felt nervous. And she didn’t usually get nervous. In circumstances like these, Leere would be excited to go in and have a good time. But with her being under an enchantment, she had a fear that her magic could soon vanish and she knew the many patrons of this male exclusive bar wouldn’t be welcome to a woman among them.

Besides, she didn’t really know how men, more specifically gay me, flirted. She could use her feminine wiles to make men, and even more women, fall to their knees but she had doubts on her skills as a man.

Luckily, Tebanam - while holding back his clear excitement - comforted her. “You’ll be fine, Leer. I promise, if anything happens, we’re out.”

Leere did not seem convinced, giving her brother a doubtful look.

“Alright, alright.” Tebanam said, “I’ll pay for your drinks too.”

Leere was not one to ignore a free drink, so she grabbed onto Tebanam’s wrist and lead the way inside the busy bar.

The gay bar was a nice establishment. With many tables filled with patrons, outside veranda and large dance floor, it was definitely a place Leere would happily go to. The building was dark apart from the candles or torches scattered about, making the mood of the building one of flirtation and mischief. A live band played cheerful yet slow music, a beat perfect to dance to as some patrons were demonstrating.

Going to the bar, Tebanam ordered two of the house’s beer. The man behind the bar was quick and settled the two flasks on the bartop for the two siblings to take.

Leere took a hearty sip, welcoming the bitter taste like an old friend, watching over the joyful crowd.

“Hey, is Rukah here?” Tebanam asked the bartender, leaning over to see past the staff behind the bar.

The man shook his head. “No, it’s his day off tonight.”

Tebanam’s said a quick thanks before looking to Leere with relief.

“Let me guess,” Leere smiled with bemusement and took another healthy swallow of her drink. “He’s the bully you’re trying to avoid.”

Tebanam nodded, “Trust me, I am not at all sad he isn’t here.”

Leere’s brother then turned back to the bartender a telltale smirk on his lips. He’s on the prowl , Leere thought. Not much caring, however.

Both of them finished their first drinks and quickly got a second. Whether that was on Tebanam’s tab or the flattered bartender’s, Leere didn’t know but she was thankful nonetheless.

Just enjoying the amazing vocal acrobatics Tebanam did in flirting with the staff, Leere almost didn’t notice a man take the spot on the other side of her at the bar.

“Hey, handsome,” The good-looking Hyrulian said with a kind smile. Leaning onto the bartop and looking Leere over.

Tall and decently muscular, Leere would consider him as being a rather attractive man. He had short, blonde hair and soft blue eyes that crinkled when he smiled. Maybe it was just Leere’s paranoia but the man looked shifty. Her suspicions didn’t seem enough to think twice on it, however.

“Oh,” Leere said outwardly, surprised someone would come up to her so soon after arriving. “Hey yourself.” Giving her normal flirtatious smile.

It seemed to work a treat, the man only smiled wider. “I’ve never seen you around here before. Traveller?”

“Yeah,” Leere answered with a nod, finishing the last drops of her beer. “Passing through to Kahmel.”

“Kahmel?” The man repeated in surprise. His eyes not restraining from looking Leere over again. “By yourself? You must be stronger than you look.”

Leere smiled, knowing well that the assumption was based on her still obvious height difference with the stranger. Only miniscule compared to that of her Gerudo siblings, clearly, it was something the man had to note.

“Trust me, I can handle myself.” Leere countered, giving a wink for good measure.

The man let out a chuckle, “Oh? Can you handle another drink, then?”

“Easily.”

The man got a bartender’s attention, ordered and within a few minutes another pint of beer was in Leere’s hand.

With already half of her third beer past her lips, she felt a hand go around her waist. The man only smiled, shuffling closer to where she stood at the bar.

“So tell me,” The Hyrulian began, his voice low yet very audible over the throng of the bar. “What’s your name?”

“Leere.” She said, curious to see the man’s reaction to her effeminate name.

He didn’t seem to falter, only smiling further. “Well, Leere, I’m Rukah.”

The name sounded familiar but Leere just took it to just be that it was a common Hyrulian name. Raising her glass she nodded to the man, “Nice to meet you, Rukah.”

Finishing her drink in one final gulp, the hand at her waist tugged her ever closer to Rukah’s side. “What are you doing after this?” His blue eyes seemed to glow in the dark lighting of the bar, making goosebumps rise on Leere’s forearms.

“Well I’ll probably go home with my-” She turned to point to her brother but found he was very clearly occupied. Leaning over the bartop, he had snagged a quick kiss from the bartender who seemed more than happy for another. “ … Friend.” She finished lamely, impressed yet annoyed by how distracted her brother had gotten in the mere minutes after arriving.

Rukah chuckled, clearly seeing why Leere paused, “Well it looks like your friend is preoccupied at the moment.”

Just as Rukah spoke, the music in the tavern changed. Although the same upbeat tempo as the last hymn, this one was lead by a flute. Clearly a favourite of the patrons, the dancefloor was soon stuffed with new dancers.

Rukah seemed to have the same idea, turning to Leere after looking at the crowd. “Would you like to dance?”

Leere didn’t need to look over to her brother to know he was still engrossed in seducing the staff so she shrugged. “Sure.”

Joining the ever growing group of occupants on the dancefloor, Leere easily found her rhythm. Dancing and swaying to the beat of the song, she was a bit too inebriated to care if she was giving herself away by the rather erotic way she danced. Rukah seemed impressed and no one seemed to be planning to make a big deal out of it.

Leere had found her stride in regards to flirting as a man, easily knowing when to give Rukah or one of the customers a suggestive glance, when to graze her hand or rear against someone else’s. Overall, she was having a good amount of fun.

Sadly, the song had to change and although many people still stayed to dance to the new tune, most opted to retreat back to their tables or the bar. Rukah was one of them, offering Leere another drink before leading the way out of the thinning crowd.

Leere could not see Tebanam at the bar, perhaps already having escorted that bartender back to his hotel room. Leere did feel hurt but seeing the newest pint in Rukah’s hand, she easily pushed such thoughts aside.

Leere lifted the drink to her lips and gulped nearly half of the amber liquid down before realising something was off. There was this tang at the back of her throat, something that really should not be in a normal beer.

Looking to Rukah, the Hyrulian man seemed to be looking over cautiously, as if expecting something to happen.

Shit , Leere thought. Quickly trying to take a step towards the bathroom and away from the stranger. Intending to throw up the contents of that beer, Rukah grabbed onto her wrist as soon as she turned away from him.

“Hey now,” He said, putting on a look of concern. “What’s wrong? Where are you going?”

“B-Bathroom,” Leere uttered.

The lights seemed to be going brighter as if someone put fuel to the flames. Her legs soon felt weak, her knees eventually feeling unbalance just by standing still. Something was wrong. Something was in that drink.

“C'mon,” Rukah tried to soothe her, reaching out his other hand to take Leere’s freed wrist. “Don’t you wanna dance a bit more?”

“N-No,” Leere weakily shook her head, trying but failing to pull out of the man’s grip. “There was … There was something in my drink.”

The world was beginning to spin, disorientating Leere with even the slightest turn of her head. Whatever was in her drink, it was spreading. Pumped into the bloodstream it made quick work with the alcohol. This wasn’t an accident, this was done on purpose and Leere knew just who the culprit was.

Taking a step back again, Leere tried to escape from Rukah’s clutches but instead lost her footing. Perhaps due to the sticky floor near the bar or just her now feeble legs, the ground came out from under her.

But two strong hands caught her before she landed on the ground. With what strength Leere had, she looked up.

Tebanam was back and he looked worried. Placing a hand on Leere’s forehead, he checked her temperature. “Hey, you ok?”

“N-No,” Leere said shakily. “Something was in my-”

“He’s fine.” Rukah interrupted, taking back Leere’s wrist and giving it a soft tug. “We were just thinking about going back to my place.”

Tebanam frowned, looking from his weakened sister to the stranger. “I don’t think so.” Easily grabbing onto the Hyrulian’s wrist, he squeezed the shorter man hard enough to recoil from his grapple on Leere, who welcomed the protective arm of her brother around her.

“W-We were having fun!” Rukah stuttered, trying to defend himself out desperation. “He’ll be fine, I’ll look after him. Why don’t you go back to chatting with Tirill?” Nodding to the bar, clearly speaking about the man Tebanam had been flirting with. “You two were getting pretty familiar, it’d be a shame if-”

Rukah paused his rambling to scowl. Looking up, he squinted at Tebanam’s face as if recognising him. “Wait just a moment … Do I know you?”

Even Leere could feel Tebanam stiffen. His arms squeezing ever so tighter around her shoulders as if to keep her from slipping away.

“No you don’t,” Tebanam obviously lied. “I’m just a-”

“Yeah …” Rukah interrupted, raising a hand to point at the tall man. “Yeah, I know you alright! You’re that prick who went after Rilon!”

“Y-You’re wrong, I don’t know a Rilon.” Tebanam continued, taking a cautious step back.

“Don’t you bullshit me!” Rukah angrily shouted, catching bystander’s attention. “You were here before! Going after him when you knew he was mine!”

“Well, m-maybe I did,” Tebanam admitted, “But I didn’t know he was yours.”

Leere, perhaps too out of it to truly understand the context of this fight, could not help but spare a thought of bemusement. Seeing her tall half-Gerudo brother almost cowering from the puny Hyrulian that stood in front of him.

“Shut it!” Rukah said, clearly intoxicated and visibly angry. Reaching out he grabbed onto Leere’s wrist. So tight that is it made her grunt in discomfort. “Imma take your boyfriend and we’ll pretend like this never happened.”

“Boyfriend?!” Tebanam said, tone heavy with shock and disgust. “He’s my sis-brother!” Leere could feel her younger sibling take a step backwards, trying to make space between them and the Hyrulian. “Now let go of him!”

“No way,” Rukah said, shaking his head as he closed the space between them again. “I work here, remember? So you better play nice.”

With one strong yank, Leere had slipped from Tebanam’s safe embrace into the stranger’s arms. Holding both of her arms behind her back and with Leere’s symptoms only worsening, there was no way she would have the strength to free herself.

“I’ll repeat myself only one more time.” Rukah said, a half-crazed smirk curling his face. “You get out of my club and leave your … brother with me.”

With all the strength she had left, Leere crouched in her assailant’s grip. And before either her brother or her attacker could say a thing, she jumped upwards and slamming the back of her head into Rukah’s chin and nose.

Leere felt the arms that had been restraining her loosen and took the needed steps to get back to Tebanam’s side. Rukah was on the floor, falling onto his ass from the force of the hit. He let out a pathetic groan, clutching at his face as he wriggled to get back up to his feet.

To Leere’s dismay, three men separated from the onlooking crowd to join Rukah by his side. Clearly not there to negotiate.

Leere swore under her breath. Knowing her condition, she would only be able to fight off one of the newcomers. But Leere then felt the hand that held her close squeeze her. Tebanam was still with her and clearly, he’d be able to handle the rest of the rabble.

The newcomers were the first to move in. All at once, all three lept to separate the siblings. Leere kicked one in the shin, causing the man to topple. Tebanam used his large forearms to careen across and smack the other two away.

In the ensuing chaos, Leere quickly had her opponent groaning from a broken bone and Tebanam had left the other two men unconscious.

Thankfully, that seemed to be the only people who were planning to side with the now bleeding Rukah. So before any more people got any ideas, the siblings quickly pushed through the onlooking crowd and left the bar in a run.

The night sky outside of Oshmel was beautiful. Without the lights of the city brightening the heavens, the navy blue was dotted by bright stars. It was also silent apart from the soft running of the nearby river flowing through the grasslands and the soft chirping of local insects.

Too bad that was ruined by Leere heaving up the inside of her stomach into the river. Trying as best she could to get rid of any last remnants of whatever Rukah had slipped into her drink. The only comfort being the soft, comforting pat of her little brother against her hunched back.

With her stomach feeling empty and throat sore from choking, Leere laid down in the grass to rest and to stop her head from spinning.

“You feeling better?” Tebanam inquired, sitting next to her and looking over the meadow-covered scape.

“Not a lot,” Leere muttered and lifted her had to squeeze it into a fist. “But my energy is coming back.”

“Good,” Tebanam sighed in relief. “I’m sorry, by the way. I really should’ve kept an eye on you.”

“Yeah, you should’ve.” Leere said dryly but then nudging Tebanam from where she lay to tell him she was joking. “But it’s not your fault. It’s that son of a bitch Rukah who should by saying sorry.”

Tebanam let out an understanding grunt but didn’t seem to quite like he had understood that he had been forgiven. Guilt still twinkled in his orange eyes as a frown played at his brow.

“Listen … I’m sorry for what I had said. The last time we saw each other, I mean.” Tebanam muttered, pulling a blade of grass from the stem to fiddle with it in his fingers. “It was uncalled for.”

Leere shrugged, sitting up to watch her little brother twist and tug at the leaf. “It’s fine. Me and Rinku weren’t really helping things. I don’t really know where it all came from but … we really shouldn’t have ended it like that.”

Tebanam nodded, the blade of grass now tatters in his lap. “Yeah … me neither.”

Nudging her baby brother again, Leere smiled to him. “As if I could ever hold a grudge against you, Teb.”

Tebanam could only smile, reassurance being all he needed to let him relax where he sat. “We better get going then.” The brother said before getting to his feet. “You can stay in my room tonight.”

Leere stood up on her feet but soon felt her knees shake under the pressure of holding herself upwards. Tebanam seemed to see her dilemma and smiled.

“C'mon,” He said, crouching and offering his back for her to climb onto. “I’ll carry you.”

Leere restrained a smile and obeyed, quickly getting into Tebanam’s back. She was having a strong sense of nostalgia. They had used to do this when they were kids, only it had been the other way around. Tebanam sobbing from a grazed knee and Leere telling him off for not being careful.

“Goddesses, you’re heavy.” Tebanam groaned as he steadied himself.

Leere playfully hit her brother, “That’s no way to talk to a girl.”
“But your not a girl,” Tebanam retorted, smirking at Leere’s still transformed appearance.

“Oh yeah!” The sister gasped, quickly muttering the needed incantation under her breath. She soon felt lighter, her clothes loosening and her chest quickly weighing her down. “Better?”

“Much so,” Tebanam answered mid-chuckle.

For that one night, the town of Oshwel was treated to the sound of adult siblings laughter as the two of them, with only one trail of footsteps, ran down the empty streets.

This fic is based on the Zelgan au (and Rinku) by @figmentforms
Tebanam is created by @s-kinnaly
Leere is created by @mrneighbourlove
Towns and other minor characters are by me
I highly recommend you look at their content on this to have a better understanding of the story

Chapter 1-Chapter 2-Chapter 3 -Chapter 4

Also available on AO3

WARNING! This pic contains: implied/referenced sexual assault

If any of these upset you, please do not read!

Remarks Which Sting

Faris had woken to another morning in Hyrule castle roused by Tebanam’s peppered kisses and hugs. Opening his eyes, the bodyguard quickly closed them again as the sunlight shining through the window stung his retinas. He let out a grunt, as if annoyed to be awoken. Stretching his arms to wrap around the prince’s shoulders, who hovered over the bed.

“Good morning, Faris.” Tebanam said with a large amount of energy for someone awake this early in the morning. Halfway to dressed, his hair was unkempt and overall looked pleasingly disheveled from what Faris could see through his squinting eyelids.

Faris only let out another noise of displeasure as a response. This not mirrored in his single kiss he pressed to his lover’s cheek.

Tebanam left Faris to get up, his footsteps the only sound in the large bedchamber.

“What are you doing today?” Faris finally spoke, wiping his eyes of sleep to watch Tebanam go about his business.

“I’m going to talk to Papa today, which’ll only take a few hours.” The prince answered as he tried to clean up the scattered piles of clothing that had been thrown aside the night before. “After that, I should be free for the rest of the day.”

“Good to know,” Faris murmured, combing a hand through his messy dreads.

Tebanam looked over and smiled. Clearly seeing something he liked, he sat on the edge of the bed. “At midday, I’ll be checking up on Atem.” The prince said, pulling on a shirt and beginning to button it closed. “We can meet from there.”

Faris nodded, “I’ll probably train.”

Tebanam pouted, “And I don’t get to watch?”

“No,” Faris answered curtly, “You’re distracting.”

Noticing Tebanam’s buttons were offset, Faris reached out and replaced the prince’s fingers with his own. Doing the arduous process of undoing them all and realigning them. Tebanam watched with a soft smile. Waiting for his partner to finish before leaning to give him a peck on the lips as thanks.

Being in private, Faris felt more than comfortable to show his prince that he wanted him to stay. His scarred and calloused hand going to hold at the other man’s chin in an effort to hold him still for a longer kiss. The prince let out a sigh, noticeably wanting to stay too but he still pulled away.

“Don’t tempt me,” Tebanam muttered, his own hand going to caress Faris’ where it held his face. “I don’t want to keep Papa waiting.”

Faris licked his lips, pondering his words before he spoke, “We have time.” Trying to at least copy the charismatic tone Tebanam always used when he wanted something.

Tebanam’s wistful smile turned to one of mischief, “Faris, are you suggesting … ?” His tone playful as he left out the very subject Faris was proposing.

Faris blushed, even with having the words down he did not have the control to restrain his embarrassment. But before he could take back his words, Tebanam had his answer.

It had turned out that, no, they did not have enough time. But it was not like the men had realised this in the moment. In fact, it was only after they’re steamy embrace had ended that Tebanam had chanced a look at the clock above the fireplace. Although his shirt was still buttoned, his bottoms had vanished once more. So once finding himself in decent attire, the prince had left. Although not without blowing a kiss to Faris on the way out.

Faris took his time getting ready. As he still needed time to figure out how to bind, buckle and arrange the clothes he had been given as a present when arriving in the castle. At least he did not need Tebanam’s help this time. And felt, overall proud if his progress in dressing himself. He doubted he would need all the layers once getting to the training grounds, he also did not wish to give the Hyrule castle residences anymore reason to gossip about him.

Leaving the quarters, it was a decent walk to the gatehouse where the knights occupied, but Faris felt he could manage it this time and not get lost. But in Faris’ defence, you couldn’t blame him for it. The incredibly ornate building was awe-inspiring, certainly, but to manage your way through the identical halls was a talent he had not yet attained.

The bodyguard forgot just how quiet their section of the castle was. Being part of the royal family, Tebanam’s room was separated from the normal hustle and bustle of castle life. Although there was still room for more noise in the empty halls, chatter of servants, clanking of armour and clattering of cleaning gave life to the castle. Faris noticed it did seem louder than usual, probably due to the servants packing everything away after the festivaties the night before. But even with the added din, he could still hear them.

The whispers.

In Faris’ normal life, even with a prince of Hyrule by his side, they were very much seen as strangers wherever they had travelled. They had a shocking amount of anonymity. In fact, for the first few months of Faris knowing Tebanam, he had not even known he was a prince. 

In Hyrule castle, however, Faris would walk and find that each person who saw him, recognised him. Whether he was training in the grounds or dancing in great hall, everyone knew - to some capacity - of who he was.

Although the hushed words rang loudly whenever he heard them, Faris had thought he had gotten used to them. Knew all the rumours and all the knowledge that was being carried around. But Goddesses, was he wrong.

Away from the safe and quiet of the royal quarters, servants did not show much shame in murmuring all around him. He even saw a knight patrolling, lean to his counterpart as they passed him. Eyes tailed him, all keeping their distant, yet ever aware of his presence.

“It’s one thing to be attracted to men, but something like him?”

“Surely our prince is only interested in him for the rarity.”

“Or maybe just for his experience.”

“And in return he lives a life of luxury.”

“He’s damaged goods, he’s not worth a single rupee.”

Avoiding the knight’s grounds, Faris had opted to go to the stables to pay a visit to his and Tebanam’s horses. Even the small stablehand appeared to have opinions of him, scampering past him to grab the other child servant and dashing out of the horse’s enclosure.

“From being with a noble before, his standards have really gone down.”

“He’s a brute, you know. I heard he killed hundreds in the coliseum.”

“His name is Skullcrusher, what did you expect?”

“Did you see him just the other day? He almost killed a nobleman!”

“A brute in all regards.”

Escaping to one of the many gardens was no use as well. Gardeners sherring the grass and clipping the flowers looked at him like he was lower than the worms that wriggled in the unearthed ground.

“Do you think he had another name in the whorehourse?”

“I heard he was so desirable the prince had to bid against a local noble.”

“He’s worth a whole ship’s worth of rupees, supposedly.”

“Poor prince, played like a fool.”

“No different from your common whore.”

“Just go to your local brothel. At least those ones know how to dress.”

For the whole morning, Faris did not find freedom from the assumptions, rumours and disgusted looks that stalked him wherever he went.

What was going on?

Tebanam had told him the people of the castle were starting to see him favourably just the other day. As honest word of the couple’s adventures and Faris’ dedication to the prince. This, this was something entirely different. What could have changed in the last day, no, hours, since the pleasant reception he had received the night before at the party? And more importantly, how did they all know? Details of Faris’ past were tightly constrained to merely being a colosseum warrior. It wasn’t supposed to be known as a slave or a slut.

One would think, rumours were just rumours. Tebanam seemed unbothered by all the things said about him after all. And Faris had found his way of tolerating them. But these simple whispers, they were so near to the truth that they dug up memories. Memories Faris and Tebanam had worked hard to forget. Memories that Faris had found peace with after all those years.

The eyes looked at him the way people did in Al-Daida. Just a monster, a slave, a toy, something below human. It had Faris uncomfortable and almost sick. And there was no way he could escape it.

Atem chirped cheerily as Tebanam let his ungloved hand scratch under his chin, just below his sharp beak. The bird of prey clearly missed him, acting more like a touch starved cat than a hawk.

“Have you been behaving, Atem?” Tebanam cooed to his pet. Even with the docile way the predator was acting currently, the fresh scratches of the castles’ pigeon messenger and caretaker said otherwise. Tebanam had to note mentally to compensate the young man for his effort in caring for the hawk while he was busy.

The prince didn’t trust the normal falconers of Hyrule castle to Atem’s care. Although he knew the bird would be fed and housed well, they were strict and disliked how Tebanam spoiled his dear hawk. But he couldn’t help it. Atem had been a gift from Ralnor when he left Hyrule for the first time and although he was supposed to be a messenger, he had also become an important companion. An emotional crutch and pillar of support very early on after leaving his royal life behind. Of course, he now found that in Faris but that did not mean he did not want Atem to ever feel left out.

The noise of fear-stricken pigeons, ruffling and flaring up their wings in their cages at the sight of the hawk kept Tebanam’s ears occupied. But he still noticed Faris entering the small castle turret room before he could announce himself.

“Faris,” Tebanam said cheerily, more than happy to see his lover up and dressed, although he did not much hate the sight of him when he had left him that morning. “How was training? You better not have shown off too much in front of the knights.”

Faris was silent, which was normal for him. It was more the cautious look Faris adorned, sizing up the pigeon carer - who cast a wary look from where he fed a very rowdy cage of pigeons -, that had Tebanam concerned.

Faris joined him at Atem’s perch without giving the bird a single glance. Which was surprising as Faris and Atem had this unstated loathing for each other. Tebanam would think he would at least give the needy hawk some sort of glare.

Tebanam frowned, he could tell something was wrong. “What’s the matter?” He enquired, reaching out to touch his shoulder.

But the bodygaurd kept out of his reach, his eyes darting to the young man who still watched them. As if he felt some sort of shame by the servant knowing of their relationship.

“Atalph,” The prince called, grabbing the pigeon carer’s attention. “Can you please leave us for a moment? I’m sure that there’s someone who needs to send a letter.”

The young Hyrulian stiffened, his eyes darting between the two men before bowing. Leaving the room without saying a word, the patter of his footsteps down the turret steps soon vanished.

“Faris?” Tebanam asked, hoping to at least know what was bothering him.

The bodygaurd’s jaw visibly clenched. His eyes looking around the room in case there was no one else apart from them, the pigeons and Atem to hear him.

“Have you been listening to what they’ve been saying?” Faris asked. His voice low, weighed with what sounded like anger.

“What?” Tebanam frowned, “Who? What have they been saying?”

Faris was not one to speak straight, his cautious nature had him stepping lightly both with body and words. But clearly, he was so troubled and his forgivings did not stop him.

“The people, the knights, the servants … Everyone. They’ve been talking about us all morning.”

The prince tried to recall the behaviour of the Hyrulians. Apart from being with his father, walking the halls he had thought the servants were more talkative than usual. But he had thought it harmless, rumours were things that were common place in such an environment. Especially after the festivities the night before.

“What have they been saying?”

Faris paused, the words were on his tongue, Tebanam could tell. But those words seemed to bite back, making the man cautious to affirm them by even vocalising them.

Faris listed them, from being a brute, to a whore, to a murderer, to a slave. Tebanam openly refuted each and everyone of them, not even bothering to give it a second thought. Yet although Faris did not voice it, Tebanam’s objections did not seem to matter to him. The words appeared to have cut him in a place no sword could reach. Tebanam could almost see it in his eyes, his mind surely recalling all the memories he had worked so hard to forget. He was reliving them, every bout in the coliseum, every night in the whorehouse and every whip strike.

Tebanam could not care less about rumours about himself. But to see his lover so badly wounded by the bites of whispers had an anger begin to bubble. Apart from word of his prowess in the colosseum, not much was known of Faris. And his mother and older brother had promised to keep it that way. So then how did all of Faris’ past get spread? Even with the lies that matched the usual absurdities of gossip, truths were woven in to tell a realistic picture of it all as it had been.

“I’ll tell Mama,” Tebanam stated, holding his lover by both shoulders to get his full attention. “I’ll make this right, Faris. I promise you.”

Queen Zelda sat in her office, scouring over her usual load of paperwork. She was just beginning to ponder about having lunch in her office, or find her husband and eat together, when the doors of her private office burst open.

The queen jumped, glowering and ready to begin accosting the intruder. But paused at the sight of her youngest son, Tebanam.

“Don’t scare me like that. You wouldn’t want me to have a heart attack, would you?” The queen chided and was about to ask whether he would want to eat lunch with her. But she then saw the anger in the prince’s eyes. “What’s the matter?”

“The people are finding out about Faris’ past mama.” Tebanam began, getting to his mother’s desk and almost towering over her where she sat. “He’s been hearing it all morning. The most horrible things.”

“Teb,” Zelda began, trying to be patient and calm the man’s anguish by using his childhood nickname. “You know that people talk. Surely it’s nothing too-”

“They know about the brothel,” Tebanam interupted. Zelda would castrate him for his rudeness but the declaration shocked her. She let her son continue on, “They know about the truth of the coliseum, the slavery. Everything.”

Zelda was rather surprised. She stayed silent, pondering over her words but not quick enough before Tebanam began his accusations.

“Only family is supposed to know about this, Mama. You and Ralnor promised that the investigation you were going to do was only a precaution. That all you found would never be revealed to the public!”

For one, it was rare for anyone, apart from her husband to yell and condemn the Queen. But she was shocked by the predicament. This wasn’t good. Of course, Faris’ well fair was a priority but her family, her rule, her country was going to be under a great deal of grief with this revelation. She could almost hear her nobleman confronting her for it. It was bad enough Faris was a foreigner, like Zarazu and Vul'kar before him, but a freed slave?

“I did so Teb,” Zelda replied, defending herself as she tried to think the whole situation through. “Apart from the Dragmire, only the spy knew. And he has sworn an oath of loyalty bound to the crown.”

Tebanam clearly wanted to spit on such an oath, but he knew he had no evidence to prove otherwise. “Do you know where all of these whispers would have come from?”

“No,” Zelda said, thinking for a moment. “I haven’t noticed these rumours myself but … It has to be a nobleman, or at least someone who is knowledgeable of the customs of Al-Daida.” The Queen then sighed, messaging her forehead, “But by now there will be so many divergents from the original that surely it would be impossible to track them. This sort of gossip would spread like wildfire, after all.”

She stood up, walking around her desk. Standing in front of her youngest child, she took his large hands in her own.

“Whoever did this meant to cause a stir.” The queen continued, squeezing the man’s fingers. “They’ve done it well and fast. The rumours will surely reach the outer parts of the castle city by nightfall.”

“Is there anyway we could stop it?” Tebanam implored, reciprocating the squeeze with his own. A custom the two did since he was a young child.

Zelda could see the desperation in her dear’s eyes. Clearly he must’ve seen his lover’s reaction to this whole debacle. It hurt her to see him like this. For all the cordialness and authority she tried to uphold, she adored her children, Tebanam included. She would do anything for him, so it pained her so much to know she was powerless.

“My sweet Teb,” Keeping one hand in his, she cupped the other at his cheek. “You know just as well as I do that stopping whispers is like holding sand in your hands. There’s always someway they will seep through.” The saying was Ganondorf’s and had been spoken many times since the King and Queen had wed. It was part of the reality of the Dragmire family. Being royals did not stop the rumours of being dirty, ill-mannered and barbaric from being uttered. Zelda was proud to see such accusations did not leave a harsh scar on any of her children, but for an outsider, this was a world full of a different sort of cruelty. “The best thing you could do is ignore them. Let actions prove doubters wrong.”

“But that’s us, Mama.” Tebanam said, his tone heavy with frustration. “Faris is different. He’s never lived like this before. This’ll hurt him more than it would hurt me or you.”

Zelda knew fretting would get them nowhere, squeezing her princling’s fingers, she tried to calm him. “Tebanam, you know I am the least likely person to call a surrender - well, apart from your father - but the best thing you can do is be by poor Faris’ side. Prove all rumours wrong, that your love is true and Faris is a good man. Only with time will such talk fade.” While Zelda may try to summon Ralnor’s talents to uncover the criminal who began speculation, her advice was the only resolute way to solve this problem. After all, it had worked for all other situations like it. “I am sorry this is all I can do for you. But I promise you, I will find the perpetrator.”

Tebanam looked to understand, although anger still glistened in his amber eyes. At least his anger was not towards the Queen anymore.

He squeezed his mother’s hand one final time. Saying his thanks, he had made quick progress in leaving. Surely returning to Faris to comfort and decide on their next more.

Chapter 6

This fic is based on the Zelgan au by @figmentforms

The Zelgan babies, as well as Faris and Jozah, are created by @s-kinnaly

And special thanks to @ridersoftheapocalypse  for writing the main fanfic about Tebanam and Faris, which inspired this fic

I highly recommend you look at their content on this to have a better understanding of the story

Chapter 1-Chapter 2 - Chapter 3

Also available on AO3

Revelations

Since Tebanam was preoccupied with more meetings the next day, Faris had the idea to use the time to train. Whether that was involving his Hylian studies or his sword, he hadn’t much decided. But plans changed when Ralnor, the second eldest prince of Hyrule, had offered to help him with his learning. As Faris was not one to object an offer, he also had a feeling that he would need all the help he could get.

Ralnor was calm, patient and a good teacher. But that was only when Faris compared him to his last one, Tebanam. Either way, the prince’s help was much appreciated and when Faris asked him how he could repay him, the blonde Gerudo pushed such an offer aside immediately.

The hours went by, the two men not talking much outside of what was in Faris’ curriculum. However, when midday arrived and lunch was delivered, Ralnor took the initiative and spoke to him.

“How is everything treating you then? I know it is a lot, so you can easily tell me of anything that may be bothering you.”

“No, I am doing fine,” Faris said curtly, “Nothing I cannot handle.”

The Gerudo prince did not seem to buy it, his sharp blue eyes squinting ever so slightly as if he could read right through him. “Then what do you think of Jazoh Spegeil? I’m sure that, at least, has been mildly distressful.”

From what Faris had heard from Tebanam, Ralnor Dragmire was the smartest out of all the siblings. With a strong intuition and clever ways of getting information, he was supposed to have a strong role to play when Covarog came into his role as king. But it still surprised him that the Hyrulian prince knew of Faris’ main reason of grief, then again, it was an obvious presumption to make.

Faris’ honest opinion was still one of confusion. Jazoh seemed kind, polite and overall soft-spoken. But there was still something off about him. His almost patronising tone or unimpressed looks he would give him always had Faris feeling rather off-put. But he had not even told Tebanam this. He had been honest about his feelings of jealousy and worry but not that he saw something eerie about the man himself. It was fair to assume he would not say this to Tebanam’s brother either. So, he simply said, “He seems … alright.”

The pause must have told Ralnor something that Faris’ words didn’t. As he hummed, emptying the last drops of brewed tea into both of their cups.

“The Spegeils is a family with a line that goes for nearly as long as the royal family’s. Supposedly, for each monarch, there has been a Spegeil. A conservative voice, whether faint or loud, that was always heard in the council chambers. That is, until around thirty years ago. When our father married our mother.” The prince looked to the younger man sitting across from him. Although Faris was stoic in face and in body, even Faris was aware that he was showing a clear interest in what Ralnor had to say next. “The Gerudo were a race greatly antagonised by the council, especially the Spegeils. So, when Princess Zelda told her advisors she was going to marry the supposed arch-enemy of Hyrule … Well, we all know how that meeting would have turned out.”

Faris could understand the anger that glittered, only for a second, in Ralnor’s eyes. Clearly, those prejudices were still lingering, even with the unity of his parent’s marriage being as strong as ever.

“The Spegeil family is one of tradition and conservation of the old and supposed ‘good’ way of life. I will acknowledge that some of their decisions have been of great benefit to the continuing existence of Hyrule. But, once both mother and father were on the throne, unintentionally or not, the Spegeil’s voice became nothing but a whisper.”

Perhaps Faris was giving too much away by saying it yet he could not restrain his curiosity. Asking the prince, “And what about Jazoh himself? Do you think … Do you think he’s like that?”

Ralnor sat back in his chair, pondering for a moment before saying, “He wouldn’t have been with Tebanam if he was. Being with another man, let alone one of Gerudo blood.” Ralnor could tell that this was not quite enough information for Faris to go on. Taking a sip from his teacup, the blonde Gerudo then continued, “I am what allies and adversaries of Hyrule have called the 'dark prince’. I specialise in the more secretive goings-on in Hyrule that the great king himself is best to stay away from. I know the secrets and weaknesses of all who come to be near my brother and my family. This is how I intended to keep them safe.”

Faris knew that was very much true. Tebanam had told him as much, that once word got to his family of their relationship, there would be people digging into his past. He was surprised by the caution but seeing what company they were obliged to keep, it made logical sense. And, in spite of Ralnor’s sincere tone, his words didn’t intimidate Faris. After all, if something of a suspicious nature about him had turned up, Faris felt very much like he would not be sitting in this chair right now.

“For all the knowledge I have, I cannot find anything of a sinister nature relating to Jazoh Spegeil. Nonetheless,” Ralnor said, sitting up ever so straighter. “Since he is part of that family, as my brother’s bodyguard and more especially as his lover, I ask that you be wary of him.”

Faris had much to think about after he met with Ralnor and that was not including his studies. In a way, it felt comforting knowing he was not the only one that was feeling cautious of the nobleman. But it also brought unease.

In spite of all that, Faris did not have much time to dwell on it into the evening. As the celebrations for Queen Zelda’s nameday meant joyous celebration for the people of Hyrule. This including the royalty, nobles and servants that resided in Hyrule Castle.

But, as Faris would find out, Zelda’s day of birth was not today. It had, in fact, already past. It was then explained to him that the Queen’s nameday coincided with the day dedicated for the goddess Hylia. Therefore, to not anger the devout, they moved it to a separate more convenient day later in the year, where everyone could celebrate the day without worry. The labourers had the day off while many pubs and town squares would be loud with raucous cheers and celebration. But that was the common folk’s way of enjoying the day.

In the wealthier cases, it was a night to show off their riches before the queen. Expensive gifts, ancient wines and artifacts - whether stolen or inherited - filled up one of the spare castle quarters. All of them addressed to the Queen.

That not including the ball that would occur in the evening. Although not as lavish as some of the other celebrations, it was still one to remember. All the nobles would dress in their finest silks and dance, talk and laugh the night away. All while claiming it as 'celebrating’ the Queen’s birth.

It was all a bit ridiculous in Faris’ opinion. But, he supposed that was what the rich did, he had come to realize. Any excuse for a good time was more than enough for noble and royal Hylians to party the night away. Tebanam was a very clear example of that.

That night, Faris had been given a tailor-made noble garb, much similar to the clothing worn by the Dragmire and nobles of the castle. A deep blue top suited his dark complexion with black pants and matching boots. Golden thread embroidery, surely hand-stitched, decorated the sleeves, chest and back. It reminded Faris partly of the real golden marks that adorned his skin. Although the outfit was very impressive, it only took Faris a few minutes before he felt like he was boiling in all the layers. But the bodyguard stuck with it. Mainly because Tebanam had given him such great praise for how well he looked in it. Commending him with all the compliments under the sun and promising the outfit would not be on his person by night’s end.

The festivities were to take place in the great hall with its high ceiling, stained glass windows and extravagant chandeliers. A space very much suited for functions such as these as it had also been used for multiple weddings, funerals and namedays. But to marvel at the architecture of the buildings would then be a disservice to the impressive work the servants had done at decorating the space. Many tables spread around the hall, around two hundred by Faris’ moderate estimate. All decked out in tablecloths, multiple sets of cutlery and glasses all for each of the respective seats. Even then there was space for a dance floor and a makeshift ledge where atop a table designated for the Queen and her family would sit. It was all very impressive but by the way Tebanam had seemed so unimpressed, Faris could only wonder what could be more extravagant than this.

The night began with a large and boisterous speech from the Queen’s loving husband. Who boasted of his wife’s beauty, wisdom and charm. Although not without making a joke that had Zelda blushing furiously as she smacked his side from where she sat. Then there was a speech by her eldest son, Covarog. Who spoke of her kindness, patience and wit. Passing on a few childhood memories of her strict yet cherishing talent with children.

Then came the food. A lot of food. Even for Faris - who ate almost double that of a normal man - was floored by how much kept on coming through the servant entrance doors. Vegetables, meats, sweets and all sorts of mysterious delicacies were abound. Beer, wine and mead filled every cup to the brim and not an empty glass in sight. And a chorus of cutlery cluttered as the guest chopped, cut and chewed the delicious offerings.

Finally, entertainment. First, dancers, swaying, jumping and leaping across the open hall floor. Matching the rhythm of the harps, violins and flutes that echoed in the room. All lead by the youngest princess, Kanisa. Who had arrived just earlier that day from her home up north.

Later, the Queen and King were invited to dance together to the solo musing of a single cello. Soon after, their sons and Kanisa, all joined in with their own partners. Orana remaining in her seat and entertaining her nephews and nieces.

Faris was thankful Tebanam had taught him how to dance, having said that it did not mean he was leaping at the opportunity to join his lover in front of such an audience. But with Tebanam whispering, “Let me show you off,” And the encouraging thumbs up from Orana who sat nearby, Faris felt he had to oblige.

It wasn’t as bad as he expected, although Faris did at first feel the eyes of all the onlookers, including Jazoh from where he sat with the other council members. But soon enough, all he paid attention to was Tebanam, who he held in his arms. Both men smiling softly as they followed the one dance they both knew around the hall’s floor. In spite of stepping on the prince’s toes on occasion or mistiming a turn, Faris knew he would remember this moment fondly.

When the music moved on to something a bit more upbeat, the couples pulled apart, which was a silent cue for people to either speak to them or replace them on the dance floor. Although Tebanam and Faris stood close, the bodyguard still found himself losing his prince in the crowd.

Deciding to walk around the border of the hall, intending to search for that bright red head of hair. He came across just the last person he wanted to find.

“Ah, Faris,” Jazoh said, acting almost a bit too surprised to see Faris here. “How are you?”

“I’m fine, thanks,” Faris said curtly, almost forgetting his manners before asking, “And you?”

“I’m doing very well, thank you.” The nobleman said as a smile curled his lips that made the mole under his eye crinkle. “I have just heard something very interesting, actually. And I would very much like your opinion on it.”

Faris frowned, not quite sure what the nobleman was getting at. But lamented to stay where he stood, which seemed enough for the Hyrulian to carry on.

“Well, you see, we all know that you were once a strong and powerful gladiator in the colosseum, correct?” Faris nodded, that much was synonymous with his name at this point. “And you resided in Al-Daida until you met Tebanam, am I right?” What are you playing at? Faris thought bitterly, having a bad feeling that this was going somewhere he did not like. “So then why is it that, if I recall correctly, Al-Daida only allows slaves to participate in the colosseum? As it is seen as being too dangerous for freemen.”

Faris felt his teeth clench. His arms instantly crossing over his chest. Trying to keep a steady mind, Faris tried to think of a good answer.

The bodyguard hated anything to do with that time in his past. It was horrible, blood-drenched and scarring. He still woke up every so often in a cold sweat from remembering the horrors of those long days in the boiling hot sun and long nights in the dark whorehouse. His only hope of finding solace in those nightmares being that Tebanam was there to console him.

“I …” Faris began, thinking to at least start speaking before anything else.

“Sorry,” Jazoh said, not looking much like he meant it. “Was I being rude? Aha, that was not my intention to,” Letting out an awkward sort of chuckle. “Is it impolite to ask about you? Tebanam is an important person to me, I just hope he is in the right sort of company.”

Faris was not going to accept his apology, in fact, he had the right mind to walk away from this conversation entirely. The right sort of company, Faris felt his stomach clenched at the phrase.

“Sorry to interrupt,” A woman’s voice broke the stiff tension that had arisen between the two men. Averting their eyes from each other to only glance at the newcomer, they both froze. The woman of the hour, Queen Zelda, stood before them. Dripping with gold from her crown which glimmered on her greying hair to the embroidery at the bottom of her dress, she looked aged yet immaculate. Smiling pleasantly as if she was merely just another person in the crowd. Her attention turned to Faris, “My dear, would you perhaps come walk with me? I can’t seem to find my husband.”

It was fair to assume neither of the men knew quite what to do or say. So, Zelda, with such ease one could tell she had done it before, took Faris by the arm. “Now, now, don’t be shy.” She then turned to the startled Spegeil, “It’s good to see you, young Jazoh, but we must be on our way.” And with that, escorted Faris through the milling crowd.

Faris was not quite sure if he should speak and thank the Queen from saving him or just stay quiet, in fear of somehow offending his partner’s mother.

“I hope you don’t mind, Faris,” Zelda said calmly, not looking to the bodyguard as she walked through the crowd. “But you seemed very much uncomfortable in your talk with the Spegeil boy.”

Faris was still trying to find the words to speak. What with Jazoh’s comments mere seconds ago and being arm in arm with the Queen of Hyrule, Faris was very much lost for words. Either way, he was impressed she knew of his feelings.

“I raised six children, dear,” Zelda said, almost like she could read his mind. Her other arm reaching up to pat Faris' forearm. “I can tell an uncomfortable look from a hundred paces away. Besides, any past lover is better avoiding, anyway.”

“Thank you …” Faris mustered.

“Not at all,” Zelda said, her eyes still facing forwards as she spoke, “I know my Tebanam, dear. That boy is airheaded but he is a good man.” For the first time since leaving Jazoh behind, the Queen looked right at the Garai. Her bright blue eyes seeming to read all the distress that hid there. “You have nothing to fear. The Spegeil boy is but a fly, buzzing around the heads of the two of you. So trust me when I say, you’re not going anywhere.” Looking away, Zelda’s eyes lit up. “There he is. And guess who’s with him.”

Faris looked to see Ganondorf, the king, speaking excitedly to his youngest son. Tebanam, looking just as enthusiastic as his father, was grinning widely.

It turns out, Zelda had been looking for Ganondorf. Faris had only assumed it had been an excuse. Either way, the bodyguard could not help but silently thank the keen-eyed queen as he came to stand near his partner.

“Ah! Faris, there you are!” Tebanam exclaimed. His eyes lighting up even more brightly at the sight of him. “Tell papa about the time we nearly got eaten by that clan of barbaric cannibals in the west! Papa doesn’t believe me!”

“Because I could’ve sworn those dastards had died out before my last reincarnation.” Ganondorf defended, his voice booming as he objected to his son’s ruling.

“And who’s fault is that?” Zelda muttered under her breath so only Faris could hear.

With an encouraging look from Tebanam, Faris expanded on the story. Telling of how the two of them had been hunting for buried treasure in the endless grass fields in the west. When they were snuck up on by the savages as they set up their camp for the night. Managing to escape almost completely unharmed, having to sacrifice the stag they were going to eat for dinner.

Jazoh was silent, calm and collected as he watched the couple across the hall. Both smiling serenely as they spoke to the rulers of Hyrule. Hand in hand, they made the oddest of couples, in Jazoh Spegeil’s humble opinion. The sight of the bright, tanned and handsome Tebanam with the dark, silent and brutish Faris had Jazoh in a sour mood as he decided to return to his quarters for the night.

Thinking he may have peace once his eyes looked away from the scene of the two men, he was instead bothered by his own thoughts instead.

Faris’ look of shock at Jazoh’s revelation had the nobleman almost sure he was correct. That the bodyguard, Tebanam’s lover, was once a slave. He was sure of it now more than ever.

That only left more questions to be answered.

Why did Tebanam choose Faris? Out of all the handsome, freemen of all the lands - let alone of higher birth - he chose a roughened slave as his partner. Was he tricked? Bamboozled by some slave trader’s sales tactic? Or even seduced? All seemed possible as he remembered where Tebanam had 'met’ the slave.

Al-Daida.

For a city that prided itself on the good treatment of its travellers and guests, the slaves that practically ran the city were treated like they weren’t even human. The colosseum was one of them, then there was the harsh labour, sex work and mass breeding just to name a few.

Sex work.

The concept lingered in Jazoh’s mind all the way to his quarters.

Faris, for all the disbelief Jazoh Spegeil gave him, was a strong, fit and considerably good looking man. Surely, he would have been sold a fair price in any good whorehouse in Al-Daida and that was not even considering if he were to be rented out by royalty or nobility.

The nobleman’s bed was waiting for him, set and ready to be slept in. But Jazoh had things to do, thoughts to write and letters to send.

Chapter 5 -Chapter 6

This fic is based on the Zelgan au by @figmentforms including Rinku and Cass

The Zelgan babies, as well as Faris and Jozah, are created by @s-kinnaly

And special thanks to @ridersoftheapocalypse  for writing the main fanfic about Tebanam and Faris, which inspired this fic

I highly recommend you look at their content on this to have a better understanding of the story

Chapter 1-Chapter 2

Also available on AO3 

Unpleasant Emotions

After a refreshing bath and more than appetizing lunch, Faris and Tebanam found themselves in the castle’s library.

Thanks to the large investment from Tebanam’s mother and father, the room - or better to call a hall - was filled from roof to floor by cases of books. Leaving not much space for the wooden tables inserted between many of the aisles to allow people to sit and study. One side of the library was covered in large glass windows, allowing the warm afternoon sunlight in. Which coloured the library in cozy shades of soft yellows and oranges. The view was also quite impressive, as it overlooked the Hyrulian flatlands all the way to an ocean in the distance. This view must have inspired someone to layout lounging couches along the length of the library, so at nearly every row there was a go-to spot to lay and enjoy the sight.

The library was used by the royal family mainly, as well as nobleman, scholars and the occasional foreign diplomat. But Faris did not see any such people, it was only him, Tebanam and a very old librarian who shuffled among the shelves returning books where they belong. Tebanam had said that the library was so well known in fact that many legends and rumours had come from what hid in the very bookshelves. From ancient stolen scripts Ganon’s armies had stolen or pillaged to the diaries of Zelda and her past reincarnations. It was surely a sight to behold. If only Faris knew how to read.

Faris had, once arriving at Hyrule castle, put it upon himself to start learning how to read and write in Hylian. As even while on his many adventures with Tebanam he had found he was not much help when it came to reading books or maps.

Ralnor had been more than happy to provide old books that the princes and princesses had used when they were young. He had warned Faris it may be difficult as he was a grown man but he assured him with enough hard work he should find himself at a reasonable level.

As an ex-slave, he was never given the option of education. And surely, before his subjugation, he was too young to have had a chance to try. However, it was not like Faris had much use of it in his old life. What with his days being full of cuts, blood, bruises and the cheers of a crowd and his nights occupied with something very similar.
But feeling particularly motivated by the arrival of one particular individual, although he would never tell anyone such, Faris felt inspired enough to spend the final hours of daylight in the library. With Tebanam by his side and advising him as he studied. But there was only one problem.

Tebanam, although being very much helpful when he asked it, was distractingly apparent in his very feeble attempts to keep his hands to himself. As a respectful man, the prince understood his partner’s wishes, nevertheless, alone time together was thin and few between and he clearly wanted to make use of it. Fingers lingering when they held his hand to direct him on how to write, his lips close to his ears as he quietly whispered advice.

Faris was half tempted to kick him out of the library entirely. After all, one could not focus if they were too busy trying to restrain a blush.

“The ‘k’ is silent,” Tebanam pointed out, taking the pencil and crossing out the first letter in the word 'knife’.

“Then why is it there then?” Faris muttered, frowning in confusion.

Tebanam shrugged, “The language used to not have a true way of spelling words, so when they went about finalising it, some look so unfamiliar to how they’re read.”

Faris let out a hum, “And it’s silent in this one as well?” Pointing at the next word, 'know’.

“Yeah, it’s the same for 'knowledge’ as well.” Tebanam furthered, smiling at him. “You’re getting better.”

Faris was not quite sure if he likes being complimented like this, as if Tebanam was a teacher rather than a lover. He’d much prefer when the prince had commended him on his fighting or even on his looks.

The prince returned the pencil to his lover’s hand. His long tanned fingers lingering. Absentmindedly tracing the lines of the strong tendons in Faris’ hand.

The bodyguard knew very well what Tebanam was up to and he had half a mind to tug his hand away and get back to his work. But, and he cursed himself for it, Tebanam’s fingers were tender and warm, easily swaying him to halt his objection.

“Why are you doing this?” Tebanam asked, his skin warm as he let his fingers trail over the multiple scars that dotted Faris’ hand and wrist.

“Because I want to,” Faris said simply. It was the honest truth after all.

Tebanam let out a small huff of a laugh, his lip quirking into a smile. His fingers pausing its activity to drape over the back of his hand.

Faris shamed himself for how his heart quickened. After so long one would expect he was used to it and for the most part he was. But then the suave prince would do something so playful and intimate that it had Faris feeling as if he had never been touched before.

Faris did not move away when Tebanam leaned closer until their noses almost touched. The proximity was so minimal the Faris could easily see the flecks of gold in his orange eyes.

Faris knew if he pulled away now, Tebanam may be wounded but would not take it to heart. And in his mind, he really should do that. He was here to study, after all, not play around with his lover. But his heart kept him there, an ache of love and joy had him almost breathless.

As the sound of shuffling footsteps belonging to the ancient librarian was only a whisper in the distance. Faris found himself being the one to close the distance into a kiss.

For surely the millionth time, the pleasure for such a touch was just as raw. The prince’s slightly chapped lips were very much used to the way Faris kissed them. The two easily making a dance of it as hands came to balance each other. Tebanam’s fingers holding to his forearms as Faris did most of the leaning. While Faris’ calloused and roughed fingers held the Gerudo man’s face steady.

It was not a heated kiss, as the two men were not much intending for it to be. But it could have effortlessly gone that route given time. That time was not given to them, as a voice called in the near distance.

“Tebanam?”

Faris’ lips paused, pulling away as he recognised the voice. It was Jazoh.

It took a moment to clear from a rather fervent faze before he could understand why the nobleman was here. It was because, to Faris’ deep regret, they had invited him.

Faris looked to Tebanam to see an expression very similar to what he was thinking. Disappointment calming his flushed cheeks as he grimaced at his lover. Very clearly regretting they had encouraged the man to join them.

Tebanam got up from his chair but not calling to the newcomer until after he ducked down to kiss Faris’ cheek. Who took a second to remember to stand up as well. “Over here.”

It only took a moment before the Hylian man was joining them. Dressed in fine nobleman clothing, he very much suited the expensive and regal library as he stood across the table from the two men.

Jazoh’s eyes looked between them, clearly seeing some sort of evidence that something had occurred just as he had arrived, “Sorry, was … I imposing on something?”

Yes, Faris thought bitterly. But his mouth was smart enough not to voice that reply.

Tebanam let out an awkward laugh, “Uh, sort of, I suppose. Faris is studying Hylian so I was helping him.” His hand waving to the pile of books where they had just sat.

“Oh,” Jazoh said, looking to Faris and giving a smile. “How noble of you, it must be difficult.”

Faris’ jaw clenched, he could have been imagining it, but he could sense a snideness to the nobleman’s tone. Faris did not show any signs of taking the hit, however. Merely saying, “I only wish to be of help to Tebanam.”

Jazoh nodded, almost knowingly. “I see, well, I was hoping to talk to Tebanam. Maybe we could leave you to your work then?”

Faris looked to Tebanam to see an undecided look, clearly, he was split between the two of them. Seeing himself enjoying his lover’s company, although under watchful eye or sitting with his old friend, not distracting Faris yet separated from him.

“Not a problem,” Faris said, acting unbothered.

Tebanam gave a soft smile to him. He gave Faris’ hand a soft squeeze before he followed the nobleman to the end of the aisle towards one of the lounges near the large windows.
At first, the two men were whispering, clearly conscious of being distracting to the bodyguard. But soon enough they were too engrossed in exciting conversations to realise that their voices rose loud enough for Faris to hear quite clearly. Rupturing through any focus Faris may have had.

Sure, the Garai tried to study at first. Tried to put his nose to the grindstone and at least have something to prove that he was not just eavesdropping. But after the affectionate moment he had shared with the prince, Faris could confidently say his mind was not in the right space for books.

The bodyguard could hear the laughter and captivated talk of the two men as they lounged not too far away. Discussing their pasts, current Hylian affairs and just nobleman talk that Faris was fairly sure he would never quite comprehend.

Faris felt disheartened by how little he understood about their conversation. Inside jokes, knowledge and a clear difference in education had him feeling somehow inferior to them.

Even though he had let Tebanam sit away from him, he felt bitterly alone, even if his lover was a meagre few paces away. The only slight bit of reassurance Faris got was the periodic glances that Tebanam gave towards him. The occasional soft smile or playful wink sending a warm signal to Faris from where he sat.

Talk eventually came to the topic of the shared time they had had together in the castle, before Faris had met him, before Tebanam had even ran away from his home.

“Soon after you started training with me, do you remember how you spared Ralnor?” Tebanam inquired, fiddling with a loose hem in his shirt.

“Ah yes,” Jazoh said with a smile. “If I remember right, you convinced him to.”

“Well,” Tebanam shrugged, “I was losing so much I couldn’t help but at least show him it was only because you were that good at the sword.”

Jazoh chuckled, “Well, I did defeat him. But he was very good. It was a close fight, I think your brother was a bit bothered by it as he promised me to swear to never tell.” He then gave Tebanam a rather annoyed look. “Yet someone had to tell his eldest brother as well. Which had him asking for his turn.”

Tebanam almost giggled like a child with how bemused he was with the memory that clearly came to mind. With a clear feeling of relish in his voice, Tebanam said, “Covarog wiped the floor with you. I don’t think I had ever seen you lose until then.”

Jazoh sighed, laying back in his chair and letting his head hang over his shoulders. “Ah, yes. That was very much a wake-up call. I had only been sparring men my age up until then.”

“Orana wanted to join in too,” Tebanam recalled, smirking. “You instantly refused her.”
Jazoh let out a huff, “There was no way I would.”

“Why? She can keep her own in a fight.” Tebanam rebutted.

“Tebanam, it’s one thing to spar a prince but one of the princesses? I think your father would have my head.” Giving a fake shiver as if the idea itself was very much a realistic prediction. Tebanam was clearly not convinced, snorting at the excuse.

Their conversation naturally flowed from one subject to the next, clearly, they knew how to speak to one another, even after so long apart. Now that Faris thought about it, he and Tebanam did not really 'talk’ like that. With one conversation moving to the other, flowing easily as if they could go on forever if they wanted. Of course, they talked but not like that. Maybe it was because they were just so different, an ex-slave and a prince were surely an unlikely coupling. It may also be that Faris was not much of a talker, he spoke his mind but he did not see much use in small talk or long-winded conversation. Faris had to remind himself that that was what Tebanam liked about him. He praised him for his short cut honesty.

Faris tried to ignore the soreness in his chest, how could he be jealous of Tebanam just talking to another man? How unbelievably possessive of him.

Feeling nearly completely sick of it all, Faris found himself wanting to leave. At least then he would stop glaring at them. Although he wanted to be around Tebanam, he was not going to get any work done, nor find any relief from his own anger if he stayed around.

When he took to stand, Tebanam immediately called, “Where are you going?”

“Back to the bedroom,” Faris said, picking up his books.

“Why?” Tebanam questioned, getting up from where he lounged with Jazoh.

“Tired,” Faris said simply, thinking of an understandable reason off the top of his head.

“Really?” Tebanam was at his side, hand on his shoulder, a look of concern scrunching his brow. “I’ll come with you.”

Faris frowned slightly, looking from Tebanam to where Jazoh still sat watching. “I’m fine, Tebanam.” The ex-gladiator said, his hand resting on his partner’s shoulder. “Don’t you want to talk to Jazoh?”

Tebanam looked to the nobleman, “Is it a problem if I leave you, old friend?”

Jazoh got to his feet, “Not at all.” Walking to the couple, he gave a smile. “There’s always next time.” He then reached out his hand for a shake.

Tebanam, one hand still on Faris’ shoulder, shook Jazoh’s in a firm gesture of farewell. “Alright, I’ll see you tomorrow at the next meeting then.”

“Very well,” Jazoh said with a curt nod.

Walking back to their bedroom, the two men travelled side by side. Shoulders brushing as they went, fingers caressing but not taking hold. Cautious of the eyes of staff and guests who may lay eyes on them.

Their room was in the more heavily guarded areas of the castle, two doors down from Kanisa’s unoccupied room and the door after that being Orana’s. The floor below, housed the rooms of the to-be king, Covarog and Ralnor, with their respective other halves.

“What’s wrong?” Tebanam asked, just a few paces from the door. His orange eyes looking over the shorter man with concern. Clearly, he could sense Faris’ bothering thoughts.

“Nothing,” Faris replied, knowing he would only cause unneeded worry on Tebanam’s part if he spoke his mind.

“If it was nothing,” The prince took a hand to hold at his face. The touch was warm and filled with care. “You wouldn’t be making that face, Faris.” His thumb lifting to rub at the space between the man’s two eyebrows, which he had not noticed was creased as he frowned.

Faris rued the fact his lover knew him so well. A disgruntled look washing over his features as he tried to find the right words, without giving away the more visceral feelings that clouded his mind. “You … You two, are really close for ex-lovers … Even with how it all ended.” Even with his hardly pondered words, he still could read between the lines, his jealousy was showing.

Tebanam gave a small smile, “Well, we were close friends. Even before we were together.”

Faris could understand that. But he felt he needed to explain why he was bothered, even if that meant exposing his feelings.

Before Faris could find that right words, however, Tebanam hit the nail right on the head as he surmised, “Could it be, you’re jealous?” Even though the bodyguard could see the restraint, something of a flattered smile curled the prince’s lips.

Faris opened his mouth to object, an unconscious first response to defend his pride. But he knew that Tebanam would read through any try at deception. It was fair, however, to be jealous. For one, he did not know about this man until yesterday. For another, he had a sinister impression that the man was very much not who he seemed.

“Listen, Faris.” Tebanam’s voice was warm as he caught the man’s attention. “He’s a dear friend and ex-lover but he’s not you.” Although those dirty thoughts still lingered at the back of his mind, Faris could not help but feel reassured, his skin warming as the prince ducked down to give him a quick kiss on the lips. “I know this is all I can say to you. But you’re my partner, Faris. Not Jazoh.” Tebanam furthered, both hands drawing down Faris’ sides to hold his hands.

Even with the man’s words warming his cold thoughts, Faris now just felt guilty. How could he doubt him? It’s not like he had done anything before now to cause it. Well, early on the prince had been a large flirt with any good looking man but when all their feelings had been said, Tebanam had tamed himself to only make advances at him.
“I’m sorry …” Faris muttered. “For being this way.”

Tebanam shook his head, “You have nothing to be sorry about, Faris.” The bodyguard must’ve not been convinced, as Tebanam then lifted the man’s hands and kissed the harshly marked knuckles.

Faris hated how weak he felt to his own feelings, letting his emotions twist and churn all his thoughts was something that was truly unlike him. It just showed how much Tebanam meant to him. “I’ve … Never experienced anything like this before … So I don’t know what to do.”

Tebanam’s smile grew into a sorrowed one, as he clearly caught onto the meaning behind his words. Faris had never had a true lover, and the life he was forced into wouldn’t have allowed it either. For all the experience of being a sex worker or gladiator, he had none when it came to handling a meaningful relationship.

“My dear Faris,” Tebanam’s soft hands squeezed his fingers, “That is fine.”

Faris clenched his bottom lip between his teeth, the numb ache in his chest waning to his lover’s encouraging words.

“After all, you’re lucky enough to have me,” Tebanam said with a cheeky tone, trying, in his own way, to lift the mood.

Faris let out a huff, why was he not surprised the prince would say something so self-aggrandizing. But Faris preferred it when Tebanam was cheery. Sadness and worry did not much suit him.

With a quick glance to either side of the hallway, to ensure that no one was in view of them, Faris pulled Tebanam into a kiss. Feeling to at least show on some level, just how much his kind words meant. He had only intended to leave it at a single kiss in spite of that when he pulled away to see the displeasure of its end reflected in his other’s eyes. The bodyguard could not help but leave the next one to linger just that little bit longer.

But, before tongues started to move and breaths became huffs, Tebanam pulled his lips away. His face still very close, lips only a fairy’s wing away, he whispered. “Best to go inside, didn’t you say you needed to sleep?”

Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 -Chapter 6

This fic is based on the Zelgan au by @figmentforms

The Zelgan babies, as well as Faris and Jozah, are created by @s-kinnaly

And special thanks to @ridersoftheapocalypse  for writing the main fanfic about Tebanam and Faris, which inspired this fic

I highly recommend you look at their content on this to have a better understanding of the story