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I — what?

[ it isn't that he doesn't hear him perfectly; it's that the words don't really make much sense to him. he'd expected some odd jobs around the inn, maybe helping to fix it up a little, do some physical labour that's beneath someone like richard.

but this? right-hand man. somehow, that sounds like something a lot more significant than just helping him through some interactions with people. and perhaps because of that, for once, charles takes a moment to think about things rather than answer with his gut feeling. ]

That's, um, that's a real honour, innit? And I want to help you as much as I can, I do. Just — what would it... include? I mean, I can help you round here, with talking to people or whatever else, just. It sounds sorta like a full-time job, and I don't know if I can do that. [ he ducks his head, scratches the patch of skin right below his ear as if sheepish. ] I am loyal, don't get me wrong, but there's someone else who's got dibs on my time, so... I can help with whatever you want, but only when he's, you know, at work or something.

[See, there is already an issue. Richard's world is colored in black and white, that the words "I am loyal" followed by simple "but" are already creating a crack in his mind. He does not show, of course, but stores it in the back of his mind.

Richard leans back on the chair, crossing a leg over his knee and places his elbow on the arm rest so that he can lean his cheek on the gloved knuckles.]

Oh? Is that so? How unfortunate for me, then. Of course, I would not expect you to work for free and I am more than willing to give you a compensating pay. I was hoping that you would help run errands for the inn, listen to our patrons and to their concerns. I have the book keeping and other paperwork under the control.

However, I do understand if I am too late. But it makes me wonder just who this 'he' is that has caught your heart before me.

[ of course there's already an issue, why wouldn't there be... charles winces as richard keeps talking, because — ] No, hold on a tick, that's not —

[ he's making a comparison here that's not at all something to make, and yet he can already guess that trying to explain it might go badly. not that he's not going to try. ]

I wasn't saying no, was I? I can help you with all of that, just — I don't have any other job, not as such, and I do wanna help. [ he sighs. ] But you can't really say that, Your Grace. I mean, you're the king and I know it's the whole for king and country thing and all... but as much as I care about you, it's not like I'm dating you, is it? It's not the same.

[ he tries to soften his voice a little, then, ] I love my boyfriend, a lot. And he's always gonna be the one I put first, in everything. But if you're fine with that, then I can help you, no problem.

[It's Richard's turn to listen. Well, well. Seems like that is one way to rile up an honest answer out of Charles. The word "boyfriend" does catch his attention, though. And honestly? He can't say he's too surprised. Richard had taken a notice of people indulging in the sin and forming forbidden liaisons like that. And he supposes that it would explain why Charles kept lingering on even after his death. Perhaps it was this nature of his that kept Saint Peter for calling his name.

Personally? Richard didn't really care that much. He had a long time ago accepted that he would never see the pearly gates, embracing his own wickedness. He is the last person to judge others on their sources of light and solace.]

Charles. [Richard begins, voice soft and tender, as if he was trying to soothe out the ripples of nervousness in the other.] I have no intention nor desire to rip you away from your loved ones. I am terribly sorry if i have made you feel that way.

Love and companionship are the most beautiful things in all of the existence. I am overjoyed that you have found them in a bleak world like this.

Edited 2024-11-21 19:34 (UTC)

[ the sound of his name makes him freeze, just for a moment, despite richard's soft tone — as if the reaction is so ingrained in him he can't quite help it, until the fact that richard is speaking with such a soothing voice sinks in and his shoulders drop and he manages a smile. ]

No, not at all. I mean, I know you didn't mean it like that.

[ his smile gains some of its brightness back, then, the kind of luminosity that reaches all the way up to his eyes. ] And yeah, so am I. Can't dislike this place too much, can I, not when it's the reason I met him.

[ and then he seems to check himself, because he can and will go on with mushy nonsense if left to his own devices... but he's trying to be better about that. so, ] Anyway, if you don't mind me keeping some irregular hours here, then sure, I've got your back.

[Now, Richard is not the most emotionally aware one out there but that doesn't mean he isn't perceptive. The reaction that Charles gives to him is like a flash of red on a white paper, loud and demanding attention. How curious. Another thing to file away for later.

The serene smile stays on Richard's lips, eyes full of warmness as he listens to the youth.] Charles. You have filled my heart with bright light with your answer. I am certain that with our combined efforts we can make this place better and help the fellow chosen build their lives. And you are right.

[Richard pushes himself up from the chair, walks around the desk right next to Charles. He then places his hand on the ghost's shoulder, giving it a light squeeze.]

Without this world I would not have been able to meet you, Charles. And for that I am very thankful. I am proud to be able to call be able to call me your king. [He then slides his hand to cup Charles' cheek, thumb reassuringly brushing his cheekbone.] But I see you holding out on me. Certainly you would tell me if there was something wrong?

[ it is easy to smile back at richard, and though his words are a little too flowery, it must be the normal way for him — and so charles doesn't call attention to it, just grins and nods, because he does want to help the people here, and if this means he can do it, well, that's just aces —

except then richard gets up, and walks to him, and there's a hand on his cheek, and he blinks in confusion. there is nothing threatening in the move, far from it, one might call it affectionate... but this is richard, and charles might call him many things, but affectionate is not one of them. and yet, as ever, he pushes his own discomfort to the backburner so efficiently not a bit shows in his expression or his movements, summoning up a smile instead. ]

I'm thankful too, for what it's worth. And I — I mean, of course I would. Just... I'd be proud if you could call me your friend, too.

[It is kinda funny to watch Charles's reaction to his gesture. His smile only widens, the grin nearly reaching all the way up to his ears, when he watches the confusion briefly flare up on youth's features. Richard had come to learn very fast since his arrival that some things that he took for granted and proper, such as casual and comradery touching like this, were viewed as weird and baffling. While behavior that would easily have one arrested or worse were deemed as normal.]

A friend? [Richard repeats, tilting his head slightly to side -- as if he was tasting the word in his mouth.] Friendships are the fruit of a hard labor, a sign of trust and respect between two souls. It comes with both great burden and joy. [Which... Is exactly why Richard has never done 'friendships' in his life. Even those who are closest to him have been held at arms length -- either by his status or his own distrustful nature.]

Would you truly be willing to take my hand and invite me to your circle of friendship?

Yes, [ he says, immediate and emphatic — is richard finally getting it? yes, friendships are hard... but they're also worth it. at least for him. ]

I mean, I wouldn't be saying it if I wasn't, would I?

[ and maybe it should be weird, to be saying this with richard there close to him, hand on his cheek and watching him careful and owl-like... but charles is now too focused on the matter at hand, so he forgets all about his own earlier discomfort. ]

[Friendship is difficult. Especially for someone who has always kept themselves hidden and out of other people's reach, seeing relationships just as something to be benefited from. It had not always been like that, of course. In Richard's life there had been only one man before who had extended his hand towards him in search of genuine friendship. And back then he had wanted nothing more than to grab that hand. And now? Well, that man was no longer there. Richard had seen to it.

Charles might have gained a glimpse to part of his true form, and managed not to flinch at the sight of injury. He was kind and just. But then again, so had Henry been. ]

Hm. [Humming thoughtfully, Richard leaned in a little closer as he kept stroking Charles' cheek with his thumb.] Then, I shall be honored to call you my friend, Charles.

And in that light I must ask you again, Charles. If there was something I should know, you would tell me. Correct?

[ the sweet, beaming smile charles aims at richard at his agreement is not unlike the sun coming out from behind clouds — his genuine smiles are radiant, and richard saying they can be friends is definitely worth of one.

let's just not pay attention to the fact that the hand cupping his cheek is, hm, not exactly very friendship-y. maybe it was in richard's time? probably. who knows about the 1400s.

but, with a slight tilt of his head, charles notes the way richard keeps on coming back to this one thing... and then thinks back to a few of his other encounters, discussions, and well. perhaps he can put two and two together, here. ]

... The way you keep asking that, can't help but feel you mean something specific. D'you mean the stuff about your — relationship? [ a pause, and his smile, while no longer quite so radiant, is no less sweet and soft as he says, ] I didn't mean to bring it up, not because I don't trust you, but because I thought you'd get uncomfortable. But for what it's worth, all I care about is that you're happy.

[Richard answers to Charles downright luminescent smile with a more calm and controlled one. Well, it seems like securing the youth's trust and adoration for now was easier than he initially thought. Guess he hadn't entirely lost his touch when it came to sweet talking someone. Though he's not certain he's in the clear waters just yet.

He slides his fingers along Charles' jawline, carefully taking his chin between his fingers as he lifts his head up just a little. Definitely not looming over him like a hawk that's spotted its prey or anything, nope.

But ah, there it is. Exactly what Richard had wanted to hear during this whole meeting. And honestly? He was kinda expecting to have do more fishing than this but he's glad that Charles jumped right into it.]

So, you have indeed heard of this troubling rumor. [There's a silent spike of ire in Richard's mind. Though it is aimed at Silco, who failed to pluck out this seed before it took root in Charles' mind, rather than at his subject.] Yes, it had come to my attention that might be the case. However, I would like to know exactly what you heard and from who.

Edited 2024-12-13 00:22 (UTC)

[ at this point, he is just — well, ignoring the whole thing with richard holding his chin, because if he thinks about it too much he's just going to phase through the chair and probably richard, too, and knowing what he does, that's not going to go well at all.

so not thinking about it at all it is; and then he frowns, because — ]

Well, uh, Silco asked me about something, and it had to do with, you know, history stuff, and I'd heard previously that he was seeing someone, so — [ a shrug; not hard to piece together the whole thing. of course, jinx had since confirmed it all... but he's not mentioning that part. he'd promised her not to talk to anyone about what she told him, and he's holding to that promise. ]

[Well, good thing that he isn't thinking too much about it. Richard hums and keeps looking into Charles' eyes as he tries to decipher what goes in his mind. He can tell that the youth is being avoidant. And yeah, while it hardly takes a genius to figure out just who his informant has been in all of this, Richard hardly is pleased. Charles is still hiding stuff from him.

Taking deep breath, Richard finally lets go of Charles' chin. He takes couple of steps back so that he can lean against the other edge of the desk.]

Tell me. What exactly was this "history stuff" that made you suspicious of the nature of our friendship, hm?

Does it even matter? [ since it's looking very much like richard is adamant about continuing the charade.

he sighs, straightening up a little from his slouch when richard finally lets go of him; and then he shakes his head, immediately correcting himself with a softer, apologetic, ] Sorry, it matters to you.

Uh, Silco asked me about Henry the Sixth. And I knew beforehand that he had a relationship with someone — just, the person who told me about it didn't know I knew him, yeah? And never told me who it was with, either. But when I asked why Silco wanted to know, he told me he'd talked about it with you and wanted to know more, and he's not the type to do that just for anyone, is he? So...

[ a half-shrug; again, the deduction was a fairly obvious one to make. ]

['Does it even matter', the words make Richard bristle and his lips press together in thin line in annoyance. Just what kind of question that is? Of course it matters to him to know what all people were speaking of him behind his back. He might use words of praise and affection with Charles, speak of words about friendship and trust, while in truth he was still estimation just where does his loyalty truly lies.

But the mild annoyance turned into visible anger when he hears the youth's answer. It was like the name of the previous king alone worked like oil to the flames. Richard had mentioned Henry by name only once to Silco in moment of weakness, when the other man had tried to guide him through the nightmares of his own mind. It did not only anger him that his lover had decided to poke at that wound behind his back -- not trusting Richard's own words enough.

He takes deep breath, forcing his wrath down his throat. There was a lot to unpack with Charles' words. But first one thing needed to be addressed]

And what did you tell him of the Henry? [He remembers Charles once mentioning that the history was not his strongest suite and well.. That could be either curse or blessing in this case.]

[ he can't help the instinctual flinch as richard's anger sparks in a visible way, if only for a moment — his shoulders hunch down again, and he looks down, sounds embarrassed when he says, ]

Didn't really have anything to tell, did I? My history grade was barely above passing. [ somehow, admitting this feels terrible, when it's to someone to whom these matters aren't something from the pages of history books, but real life. ] That he was a king, and probably killed some people, and died. Maybe on the battlefield, or was deposed, I can't even remember that.

[ he shrugs, looks up at richard again, almost cautiously. ] That's all I told him. I mean, better he'd be asking you if he wanted to know more, yeah?

[Richard exhales deeply through his nostrils, some of the tension evaporating from his body. Fine. This is fine. Charles hadn't let anything damned to slip pat his lips. That's good, he can still keep all these strings in his hands.

He let's a quick moment pass between them before he says anything, observing Charles' body language. The ghost looked thoroughly spooked, like a naughty child who got caught red-handed stealing candy from the jar. Well.. He supposes that was good way to describe the current situation. ]

That is correct, Charles. You have not misspoken nor betrayed me with your words. [He says, forcing softness to his voice - hoping it soothe Charles' anxiety.] Henry the Sixth was the mad king who my family rallied against. My noble father brought storm to his doorstep and vowed to take down the false king. Henry had my father killed for it. Me and my brothers swore an oath to avenge him. We fought and brought our father's wish to completion, bringing the crown to York.

[As for his death? Hm, Richard wonders for a moment but then he leans his head forward, lowering his voice.] What I am going to tell you next carries an important weight, Charles. A secret that you shall not share with any other soul, be they living or dead. This shall be sign of my trust.

Henry the Sixth did not die in the battlefield. Nay. He died in all secrecy, weeping unsightly in the darkness of London Tower, praying for God to save him. I know this because it was me who killed him. My brother, his majesty Edward the fourth tasked me with this important mission. It was necessary act, one that needed to be done so that our nation could finally move on from the horrors of the war of the roses.

Edited 2024-12-25 23:49 (UTC)

[ the way he exhales, relieved, when told he's not said something he shouldn't have is obvious — almost painfully so, and he finally lifts his gaze to look at richard, determined to absorb every word now, to know what actually happened in his life. ]

Oh. So he killed someone important to you. [ something hard flashes in his eyes, then, dark anger that he rarely lets show; luckily, what follows makes it burn a little less bright, knowing that in that sense, justice was served. ]

I'm glad you got your revenge. [ and he means it; he may not believe in it for himself, but for those he cares about? yeah, the bad people should be brought to justice, somehow. and in a time when a court would hardly do the job... well.

then, with a quiet, determined voice, ] I promise I won't tell anyone.

[Richard observed Charles reaction to his confession. He managed to catch the glimpse of the darkness, one that he had not seen reflected on the youth's eyes before. And that's when he could not hold back a smile forming to his lips as he felt, perhaps for the first time ever, genuinely proud of Charles. Yes. He truly was his subject. Their souls were together, after all.]

Thank you, Charles. I promise I will never forget the loyalty and friendship you have offered to me here tonight by promising to safeguard this dark secret.

[The death of previous king Henry the Sixth had been clouded in a mystery for years. The public, of course, had spread the whispers about what truly had occurred, often looking culprit among Plantagenet family. Hadn't there been a rumor spreading within the streets of London? That it was Richard who had killed the last Lancaster king -- that he would kill even a God if He chose to be his enemy.

Charles was now the third person who Richard shared the truth with. First one had been the Duke of Buckingham and second Silco. All three men allowed to have glimpse to the dark secrets, while still being denied the most important part. Yes, Richard had killed Henry. But he, too, had died that night in the chapel. It was then when he had made the decision never to open himself to another person ever again, never to be fooled by the kindness of others. Never to hope ever again.

And yet.. He was here again.]

Now.. As for 'my relationship.' It is hardly what you are implying here, Charles. You are correct to assume that Silco is not a man who will express kindness or genuine interest in others outside of his daughter. The man holds no affection of any kind towards me. We have merely done business together. And I do believe that it is in his intent to benefit from my current wealth and position in this city. Any inquiry towards my person or past are not to be trusted.

Do not let him fool you, Charles.

Edited 2025-01-06 00:14 (UTC)

[ funnily enough, as charles smiles back, he has no idea it is the part of him he most strives to keep hidden and under control that is making richard smile at him — that it's the propensity for open rage that richard is proud of, the part that charles himself hates the most about himself.

as richard shifts topics, he tilts his head, listens — but does he believe him? he certainly speaks with confidence... and there must be some truth to what he is saying. charles does believe that much. but whether it's all true? no, jinx had been very clear in her words; there was something there, certainly. but perhaps it was as richard was painting it: ambition, convenience, something else than a genuine connection built on love and respect.

you deserve better, charles thinks, and simply nods. ]

Right — tell him nothing, got it.

[In truth the relationship between him and the other man was far more complicated than what Richard was letting on. Now while he would not go as far as call it love there was undeniable trust and respect that he felt towards Silco -- something that had blossomed very quickly into intimacy after their initial meeting. It had been a bit of a wonder how things had escalated the way they had, how both of these very guarded men had been able to let another soul slip past the defenses.

Richard, of course, believed it to be because they had immediately recognized each other for what they were. Dangerous and violent monsters, full of bottomless ambition and desire for fight. And it was because of that he refused to believe that there would ever be anything true between them. Monsters could only get along so long before lashing out at one another.]

I am not telling you not to talk to him. I do think that despite everything he is doing a good work here in Aldrip and I do respect him. I am also a father, after all. And if he, or anyone else, shows similar intrigue towards me I fully expect you to inform me of them. That is what friends do, is that not right?

[Then, he adds, almost as an afterthought:] Just like I expect you to know better than to listen misleading the voices that would have you to question the honor of your king.

Yeah, course. [ he agrees easily — yes, he's learned his lesson from this, if anyone else comes asking questions about richard, he's just not going to engage. that's the best course of action, there.

though, that afterthought... he could just say nothing. but he has to try, with a soft smile, ]

You know I'd never question your honour, right? And for what it's worth... even if it was true, it wouldn't do that. Make you any less honourable, I mean. Having a relationship, whoever it's with... I'll never think any less of you, yeah?

[Honestly? A smart decision, Charles.

But oh? There is a brief moment when the expression on Richard's face betrays him, reflecting some of the confusion that is residing in his mind. 'I'll never think any less of you.' Really now? Charles would be willing to embrace and accept him even as he sullied the promise he had given to his wife in front of God? How interesting. He can't help but wonder just how much of darkness within him the ghost would be able to take before he'd turn on his heel and flee. Or would he truly be able to stand by his side no matter what?

But the moment passes in less than a beat as Richard schools his expression back to normal, summoning his usual controlled composition.]

To think that you would be willing to accept me even if I were to turn my back against the God... Truly, your loyalty to crown leaves me humbled, Charles.

Loyalty to you, [ he corrects, because that is what it is, in the end — it's got nothing to do with the crown, but richard himself. to him, it doesn't really matter if richard is the king or not; he's promised to stand by him, and he's going to do just that.

of course, he now knows better than to try and say anything about the part about richard not being his king. ]

Right, [ he says, feeling finally like the atmosphere in the room isn't quite so... intense, ] Put me to work, yeah? I'll help with whatever you need.

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cw: internalized homophobia in religious context

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