A knight's code of honor [BXB]

A KNIGHT'S CODE OF HONOR - 19 | ''More than anything.''

THE KINGDOM WAS ABUZZ with excitement as preparations for the annual festival began. Streets were adorned with colorful banners, merchants set up stalls overflowing with exotic goods, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. It was a time of celebration and unity, a brief respite from the tensions that had gripped the kingdom for so long.

Gabriel stood on a balcony overlooking the bustling courtyard, taking in the vibrant scene below. The festival had brought a sense of normalcy and joy that had been sorely missing. As he watched, his thoughts drifted to Damian and the intense bond that had grown between them over the past weeks.

"Enjoying the view?" Damian's voice, warm and teasing, brought Gabriel back to the present.

Gabriel turned, a smile spreading across his face as he saw Damian approaching. The prince was dressed in a simple yet elegant tunic, the deep blue fabric complementing his eyes. "It's a sight for sore eyes," Gabriel replied, his gaze lingering on Damian a moment longer than necessary.

Damian joined him at the balcony, leaning against the railing. "It's been a while since we've had a reason to celebrate. The people need this."

"And so do we," Gabriel added, his voice soft. "A chance to forget our troubles, if only for a little while."

Damian nodded, a contemplative look in his eyes. "You're right. We could all use a break from the weight of the crown."

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the palace, the sound of music drifted up from the courtyard. The festival was in full swing, laughter and chatter filling the air. Gabriel and Damian made their way down to join the festivities, greeted by smiles and cheers from the townsfolk.

In the heart of the courtyard, a large bonfire crackled and danced, its flames reaching towards the sky. Children ran around, playing games and chasing each other, their laughter infectious. Tables laden with food and drink lined the edges of the space, the scents of roasted meats, fresh bread, and spiced wine enticing everyone to indulge.

Damian and Gabriel wandered through the crowd, stopping to greet villagers and sample the various delicacies. They came upon a group of musicians playing lively tunes, and Damian's eyes lit up with a mischievous glint.

"Care to dance?" He asked, extending a hand to Gabriel.

Gabriel hesitated for a moment, then took Damian's hand with a smile. "Why not? Let's give them something to talk about."

As they joined the dance, the crowd parted to make space, watching with a mix of curiosity and delight. The music was fast and upbeat, and Gabriel found himself laughing as he tried to keep up with Damian's quick steps. Despite the seriousness of their usual interactions, this moment was filled with lightness and joy.

They twirled and spun, the world around them a blur of colors and laughter. Gabriel's heart raced, not just from the exertion of the dance, but from the exhilaration of being so close to Damian, of sharing this moment of pure, unfiltered happiness.

As the dance came to an end, they were both breathless and flushed. The crowd erupted in applause, and Gabriel felt a warmth spread through him that had nothing to do with the bonfire. Damian's eyes sparkled with a rare, genuine joy, and for a moment, all the troubles and dangers of their world seemed distant and insignificant.

"That was... incredible," Gabriel said, still catching his breath.

Damian laughed, a sound that was music to Gabriel's ears. "Indeed it was. I can't remember the last time I felt so free."

They made their way to a quieter corner of the courtyard, where a small table had been set up with a carafe of wine and two goblets. They sat down, pouring themselves a drink and savoring the moment of peace.

"You know," Damian began, his voice thoughtful, "It's moments like these that remind me of what we're fighting for. The chance for our people to live in peace and joy."

Gabriel nodded, taking a sip of the rich, spiced wine. "It's easy to forget, with all the darkness and danger, that there's still beauty and happiness in the world. We just have to hold on to it."

Damian's gaze softened, his eyes meeting Gabriel's. "And I'm grateful to have you by my side, Gabriel. You've been a constant source of strength and support."

Gabriel felt a surge of emotion, his heart swelling with the depth of his feelings for Damian. "I feel the same way, Damian. You've given me a purpose, something to fight for. And... someone to care about."

They sat in companionable silence for a while, the sounds of the festival a comforting backdrop to their private world. As the night wore on, the stars began to twinkle in the sky, casting a gentle light over the courtyard.

"Do you ever think about the future, Gabriel?" Damian asked quietly. "What it could be like if we succeed in our mission?"

Gabriel leaned back, gazing up at the stars. "I do. I think about a time when we won't have to worry about assassins and traitors. When we can focus on rebuilding and creating a better world for our people. And... maybe even finding some happiness for ourselves."

Damian's eyes glistened with unspoken emotions. "I hope for that too. More than anything."

Gabriel felt a warmth in his chest, a sense of hope that he hadn't felt in a long time. "We'll make it happen, Damian. Together."

As they sat there, sharing their dreams and fears, Gabriel couldn't help but notice the way Damian's presence made him feel. It was more than just duty or loyalty; it was a deep, abiding connection that went beyond words. And in that moment, he realized that whatever the future held, he was ready to face it, as long as Damian was by his side.

The festival continued late into the night, the sounds of music and laughter echoing through the palace. But for Gabriel and Damian, this shared moment of joy and peace was a precious memory that would sustain them through the challenges ahead. It was a reminder that even in the darkest times, there was always the potential for light and happiness.