(Sequel to Stalemate/Interlude)

by Charley Hart

Disclaimer: The characters from the Horatio Hornblower series do not belong to me, and no infringement of anyone's copyright is intended. Billy Scathelock and Admiral Crayford are my creations, and do belong to me.
Rating: R - graphic sex

FEEDBACK to Charley

"Archie, not that, not here!"

"Horatio, hush! They’ll hear us"

"How -- can -- I -- oh God, Archie."

"Shh!"

"No!"

Sighing, Archie removed his hand from the hardened cock that tented Horatio's trousers. "I thought you'd be pleased."

Horatio's eyes softened. "Pleased that you would offer. But no, not until we can share it."

"There is no reason for you to be denied." Archie looked away, not wanting Horatio to see what was surely revealed by his pained expression, the frustration of being unable to meet his lover's needs, and the added burden of knowing that Horatio would sacrifice even that pleasure because of his inadequacy.

"Archie, no -- I won't --"

Archie suddenly put a finger to Horatio's lips. "Footsteps. Someone's coming," he whispered.

The small storage area that had become their secret meeting place was dark and musty. But the bleak little cubbyhole served its purpose -- here they could satisfy the need to touch, to hold each other, to exchange longing kisses. It was too risky, even in their private quarters, and unthinkable anywhere else. Their great fear was that someone would decide to use the room for its intended purpose. But for now …

The heavy footsteps paused, too close for comfort. Then they moved on, away and up the stairs. Horatio let out a sigh of relief. "We should go now, but first --" He pulled Archie into an embrace, enjoying one last kiss before duty called.

Archie hung behind for awhile, preparing himself to face the bright sunlight outside. I still cannot give him the happiness he deserves. Perhaps I never will. But for now … Remorse washed over him, and he clung to the doorway for support. You've won after all, Jack … I'll never be free of you.

***

"Are you sure you're up to this?" Horatio shot a worried look at Archie, who only short months ago had suffered a nearly fatal wound in battle with the French frigate Lucien.

"I would not miss this for the world," Archie said confidently. "Decent food and a night in a good bed -- "

"I'd still like to know why we are the honoured guests for dinner aboard the Port Admiral's barge. I have never even met Lord Crayford."

"I suspect it may be the doings of your good friend Miss Cobham," Archie suggested. "Didn't she say that she had friends in high places?"

"Perhaps. Captain Pellew was as puzzled as we, and expects a full accounting." Horatio frowned. "Says he doesn't like mysteries where it concerns his officers." He offered Archie a hand as they climbed into the waiting boat.

"I don't believe he approves of the former Duchess of Wharfedale." Archie was grinning, remembering Kitty Cobham’s convincing portrayal of the lowborn noblewoman. " Or could it be that he liked her rather too much?"

"Really, Archie. Captain Pellew consorting with an actress? It's out of the question."

"But surely there’s someone," Archie said, with a feigned look of innocence.

Horatio pondered for a moment. "Yes. I believe her name is the Indefatigable."

"And you think she’s sufficient to satisfy him?" Archie winked.

"Archie, we shouldn’t be talking about Captain Pellew like that. Nor thinking about such things." Horatio gave him a stern look.

Archie merely shook his head, an amused smile on his face.

The barge, the Serpentine, was moored in the bay at Portsmouth Point. As the boat came near, they glimpsed a few hands standing on deck, all in finer outfits than they had ever seen on common sailors. Horatio wondered if they laboured on board, or if they were merely part of the display.

An even more ornately attired civilian servant, a portly fellow in a blue jacket who scrutinized them head to toe before waving them onward, conducted them below. The barge was spacious, and elegantly furnished. The doors were of carved mahogany, the fittings of highly polished brass. Some of the chambers were brilliantly lit with chandeliers, in astonishing contrast to the gloomy decks of the Indy. The Serpentine was a floating palace.

The servant opened a door and bowed, motioning them to enter, never having spoken a word to them.

Horatio stepped timidly inside and stared wonderingly. "Look at this -- it's magnificent!"

Archie surveyed their guestroom. The bed alone, draped with soft, rich fabrics of burgundy and deep green, looked larger than his quarters. Thick piled carpets from the Orient lined the floors, and along the walls there were colourful japanned cabinets and sideboards of lustrous ebony and teak. He was drawn to an intricate clock mounted on the back of a small brass elephant. Beside it was a marble statue of a classical warrior holding a spear -- which appeared to be made of solid gold.

Archie touched his finger to the sharp tip of the little spear. "What do they pay Admirals?"

"A great deal more than they pay us," Horatio replied, smiling. He was standing beside the enormous bed. He hesitantly ran his hand along the surface of the soft cover, producing a wrinkle, which he hastened to smooth out.

Archie breathed in the intoxicating fragrance of the chamber. "It even smells like heaven -- what is that scent?"

"I believe it is -- lavender." Horatio said, in a strange voice. "Oh, my."

"Whatever is the matter?" Archie was watching the intricate mechanism of the clock turn away the minutes.

"I don't believe this was arranged by Miss Cobham."

"Indeed not," said a familiar voice from the doorway.

"Major Edrington!" Archie gasped.

"It's Colonel Lord Edrington now, if you please. But should either of you address me formally, I shall have you tossed over the side."

Horatio smiled. "Hector! My congratulations. This is -- quite a surprise."

Archie caught his sideways glance, and returned nothing. He folded his arms and watched with narrowed eyes.

"I had to know if I could bear to be near you without succumbing to the desire to touch you. Alas, I have failed." Edrington took Horatio in his arms and kissed him fondly on the cheek.

Archie knew there was no retreat. The away boat had left, and he was stranded here, in this ridiculously furnished room on this gaudy bauble of a ship with Horatio and that man. That insufferable, arrogant, self-assured, beautiful man. Perhaps he could swim back to the Indy.

He noticed that Horatio had not returned the kiss -- but Edrington was still holding him by the shoulders and he didn't seem to mind. He had been surprised to see him -- but elated, too. It showed all over his face. And he was chatting with him now, as if Archie weren't there at all. Archie felt his stomach tightening into knots.

"You know Admiral Crayford?" Horatio asked in an excited whisper.

"Know him? Yes, of course I know him. He's my granny's brother. He is, shall I say, partial to me. You can’t imagine how that galls my brother." Edrington winked. "He expects something, you see. But he shan't get it. Well, never mind about that." He let go of Horatio and turned to Archie. "I trust you have recovered completely?"

Archie gaped at him. And then at Horatio.

"I -- I wrote to him," Horatio stammered. "He has always been, er, fond of you."

"Yes, certainly I have," Edrington added. "You didn't answer my question, Mr. Kennedy."

Archie bit his lip. "I'm quite well, thank you." And it's Lieutenant Kennedy, if you please, damn you.

"Oh, splendid," he smiled broadly. "But now you must excuse me, there are matters I should attend to. This is your home, do as you please. I'll send someone for you when the reception begins. Uncle will be there, of course. Horatio, say witty things to him, he likes that." He was out of the door as he finished speaking.

Archie sniffed and turned back to the clock. "You really should look at this, Horatio," he said hurriedly. "I've never seen anything like it. I wonder where it was made."

"Archie -- I had no idea --"

"It's French, I believe. The maker's name is on the face. M. Favre. Yes, quite sure that it is French. And look how the little figures move around the top."

"Archie! Please. You mustn't be angry." Horatio was pacing nervously beside the bed.

"I'm not angry. I wonder what it does when it strikes the hour." He bent down to get a better look at the internal mechanism. "If you ask me, it's wasteful to spend so much on a clock. The sun keeps the hours perfectly well. For a common man such as myself."

"Will you leave that alone?" Horatio demanded, an exasperated edge to his voice. "Listen to me. If he intended anything -- that is, if he wanted to -- "

Archie turned on him. "He would not have invited me? Is that what you're trying to say?"

Horatio swallowed. "Well, yes." He found himself unable to meet Archie’s accusing glare.

"I thought he was in Ireland." Ireland is a dangerous place. Full of thieves, rebels and cutthroats. Archie was shocked at what he was thinking. It was wicked, as well as treasonous.

"He was. I thought he was. But -- well, he is here. Obviously."

You don't know what to say, do you? You have my sympathies. Almost. If you hadn't let him kiss you …

"This could be -- beneficial for you, too," Horatio went on. "Lord Crayford is an influential man. I'm sure there will be other important people at the reception. Let's just enjoy ourselves, shall we?" His eyes were pleading, his voice almost desperate.

Archie smiled tightly. "Oh, I intend to." I intend to, Horatio.

***

The chamber was already crowded when they arrived. Their introductions had been called out as they entered, and an elegantly gowned middle-aged woman had immediately attached herself to Archie, pulling him by the arm to her circle of acquaintances.

Horatio felt suddenly and uncomfortably out of place. There were a few naval officers in tight little groups around the room, captains and admirals, by their uniform insignia. But far more gentlemen in evening attire, their heads held high, their every gesture smooth and considered. What was the son of a country doctor doing in such an assembly? As the old saying goes, a square peg in a round hole, Horatio thought miserably.

In one corner, a string quartet, their faces intent on the scores before them, played the music of Mozart, the brilliant Austrian who had died young. Horatio was certain he’d heard the tune somewhere but couldn’t put a name to it. Perhaps it was something Archie had hummed while he was occupied with some task. Archie’s knowledge of music far outstripped his own, which consisted primarily of a few country reels and dances.

Horatio took a cup of punch from a baroque silver tray held out by one of the servants. It was cold, and tasted vaguely of lemon and orange, and heavily of rum. Directly in front of him, an intimidating woman with an out-of-fashion coif and too much jewellery barred the way. She looked as if she were about to speak to him, when he felt a hand on his elbow.

"I see you've sampled the punch," Hector said, guiding him to a corner. "Don't overindulge, I belief the chef wants us all under the table."

Horatio nodded, taking a small sip from the cup.

"Well? Well? Have you bedded him yet?"

Horatio nearly strangled on the punch. He coughed furiously, and Edrington pounded him on the back.

"No," he said when he was able.

"Why ever not? I cannot believe you were unsuccessful. You must tell me everything, I've not had a letter from you in weeks."

"You know most of it," Horatio said in a low voice. He related the most recent events, awkwardly searching for the proper terms to describe Archie’s impotence.

"Oh dear. That does rather complicate things, doesn't it? Well, we shall soon put them aright. Trust me in everything."

"No! Hector, really, I don't believe you should interfere ..."

"I am not interfering. I am … expediting. Here, have another cup of punch." He grabbed two from a passing servant.

Horatio was already feeling light-headed. "But -- "

"Where has he gotten off to? Ah, there he is, over by the window."

Archie was laughing, surrounded by a group of ladies who were giggling and fanning themselves.

"What the devil does he think he's doing?" Horatio snapped. Obviously, Archie was more at home with this glittering multitude than he himself was. Given the brief years he had spent at home, Horatio wondered if Archie had ever attended such a gathering. But he was the grandson of a baronet -- perhaps it was in the blood.

"I believe it is called 'holding court'," Hector said, smiling. "That's Lady Harriet Eliot who has him by the arm."

Over the protests of the other ladies, Lady Eliot had pulled Archie aside and was making for the punch table.

"Bloody hell," Horatio muttered.

"Don't fret, it could be good for him. She's Pitt's sister."

"Pitt?"

"Really, Horatio. Pitt, the Prime Minister." He stopped suddenly, his hand over his mouth. "Oh my -- Archie isn't a Whig, is he?" he whispered.

"No, of course not!" Horatio said. "That is – I don’t know. We have not much discussed politics. But surely not."

Archie and Lady Eliot had strolled through the door and were probably walking on deck. Horatio had a brief thought of Archie enthralling her with his sailor’s knowledge of the constellations, pointing out the figures from mythology to be seen in the stars while she gazed at him in rapt adoration. He took a gulp of punch, spilling it down the front of his jacket.

Edrington withdrew a handkerchief and blotted at the stains. "Oh come now, you're not afraid she'll steal him from you, are you? She's old enough to be his mother." He took a drink from his own cup. "Well, perhaps his older sister."

"You relish teasing me, don’t you?" His nervousness and the sight of Archie leaving with a lady had combined to make Horatio very irritable indeed.

"You are out of sorts tonight, dear Horatio. But I’m sure as the evening progresses you will find it more … to your liking." Hector smiled enigmatically." I think he's had sufficient time to curry favour, don't you?"

Horatio followed him anxiously onto the deck. Lady Elliot’s soft laughter led them to a spot at the rail where Archie was engaged in an animated story, obviously glorying in his companion’s full attention.

Edrington cleared his throat. "Lady Eliot, enchanting as always." She turned and smiled, and he gave a small bow. "Horatio, I have the honour to present Lady Eliot. Lady Eliot, Lieutenant Hornblower of the Indefatigable."

Horatio nodded his head politely.

Archie looks displeased. "The reception chamber was growing stuffy, and Harriet wished the refreshment of the night air."

Edrington had cocked his head and was staring at Lady Eliot's face, his brow wrinkled. "My dear, you seem to have something foreign --" he touched his own cheek lightly -- "right about there?" He gave a sympathetic little smile.

Lady Eliot looked horrified. "Oh my goodness!" she wailed, scurrying for a curtained doorway, her hand to her face.

"I didn't see anything," Horatio muttered.

"Neither did I," Edrington whispered.

"Just what do you think you're doing?" Archie accused.

"What were you doing?" Horatio hissed back. "Harriet?"

"She insisted," Archie said lightly.

A commotion had begun within, and Hector beckoned them back through the doorway. A loud guffaw was followed by even louder laughter from a tightly packed mob of men in costly coats and ladies in voguish gowns. The scene continued for awhile, then a rotund, red-faced man in full dress uniform heavy with gold braid emerged from the crowd and headed towards them.

"Ah, there you are, my boy!" He held his arms out to Lord Edrington.

"My dearest uncle," Hector greeted him with a kiss on the cheek.

Lord Crayford had a full head of white hair, which was neatly pulled back at the nape of his neck. Bushy white brows sat atop eyes that were rather too large for his face, and blinked constantly. His nose was small and turned up at the end, his mouth a dainty little pucker that made a bizarre contrast with his other features. Archie thought he looked like an enormous fat rabbit.

"And whom have we here?" he gestured in the direction of Horatio and Archie.

"Admiral Lord Crayford," Hector introduced, "my good friends Lieutenants Hornblower and Kennedy of His Majesty's frigate Indefatigable."

"An honour, my lord," Horatio said courteously.

"Ah yes! The pride of good King George’s navy," Crayford thundered. "I've heard much about you, my boy."

Horatio reddened. Several heads had turned his way. The punch felt like molten lead in his stomach. He glanced aside to see Archie smirking, and stared daggers at him.

"I hope it was favourable, my lord," he finally managed.

"Oh, indeed! I wonder if even half the tales I’ve heard are truth?" Crayford winked at him.

"Yes, my lord. If they were favourable, that is." Horatio wished immediately that he had not spoken so boldly to this man, who had the Prime Minister’s sister to his receptions and who was probably received at Court. Damned punch, he thought. His attempt to offer an immediate apology was cut off by Crayford.

"Haw, haw! By God, I like you, Horn – er, blower. Is that right? Yes, indeed. Very favourable indeed! Haw!"

"Well done," Edrington mouthed in Horatio's direction.

Crayford looked at Archie down his nose and blinked. "Ah! I've heard about you too, Keeling."

"Kennedy, sir," Hector whispered.

"Eh?"

"Kennedy, not Keeling," he repeated.

"Kennedy? Eh, that's what I said! A fine specimen, sir, a fine specimen indeed!" He slapped Archie on the bottom.

Archie wondered what the protocol response was to that. He settled on an artful smile and a curt bob of his head.

Crayford made his way over to a circle of officers. They all turned and nodded obsequiously. "Ahoy!" Crayford shouted. "Captain Muffit! Fine evening, eh, Moffit!"

Horatio took a long drink of punch. "He's very -- "

"Drunk," Archie said under his breath.

"Entre nous, I think he likes you," Hector said conspiratorially. "Both of you."

The orchestra had stopped, and an elderly gentleman seated himself at a harpsichord and began playing.

"Horatio," Edrington continued, "may I beg a favour? You remember my aide, don't you? I'm sure he's about somewhere. Do see if you can find him."

Horatio hesitated, a look of uncertainty in his eyes.

"You do remember him?"

"Yes, of course," Horatio said. "But perhaps I shouldn’t leave –"

"I really must speak with him, if you don’t mind. I will not allow anything worthwhile to happen in your absence. Now run along, will you?"

"Yes – but er, where – " Horatio looked nonplussed.

"It isn’t a large ship, dear. You’ll find him quickly enough, I’m sure."

Archie watched Horatio’s expression turn to acceptance, as he made for the door. Run along! The master commands, and he obeys. I wonder if it happened like that in Muzillac … ‘Horatio, lie down …open your trousers …’ Archie’s hands had tightened into fists at his side, and he surveyed the room for his former companion Lady Eliot. She was now chatting with two men, one of whom he recognized as Admiral Sir John Carkett, lately promoted from his post as captain of the Aegea. Archie had met him once, while serving under Captain Keene. Not a man to be trifled with. He weighed his chances of attracting the lady's attention again, and decided instead to down the remainder of his punch. He had misplaced his cup …

"Mr. Kennedy, are you fond of music?"

Edrington was standing at his side, a fresh drink in his hand.

Archie felt his throat tighten. Curse it, if the man would only leave me alone.

"Yes. Of course I have few opportunities to indulge myself." He waved away the proffered cup.

"Then perhaps you would care to meet our musician. Come with me."

They waited patiently for the gentleman at the harpsichord to finish the piece he was playing, Haydn's "Gypsy Rondo", which Archie particularly liked.

Hector touched the old man lightly on the shoulder.

"Sir, if I may present an admirer?"

"Ja, certain," the man replied.

Archie fumed inwardly. An admirer? How dare he presume? Not that the old gent doesn't play very well …

"This is Lieutenant Kennedy of His Majesty's Navy. Archie, may I present Mr. Franz Haydn."

Archie realized he must look senseless indeed, standing there with his mouth open, too surprised to speak. But what did one say to Franz Haydn?

"Herr Leutnant, you are liking Mozart?" Haydn asked pleasantly, seeming not to have noticed Archie’s faux pas in not responding to the introduction.

"Er .. yes. Yes, very much, sir." He regretted rejecting the punch.

"Vat you like to hear?"

Archie's mind had gone blank, and rivulets of sweat dripped down his temples. "The, er -- in a minor key -- one that goes … da duh dee dee dee .." He hoped he did not look as foolish as he knew he sounded.

"Ach! The C-minor Fantasia. I play for you. A melancholy piece. I knew him. I knew Mozart." Haydn smiled wistfully. His hands poised briefly over the keys, then descended slowly, and the ageless fingers flew over the keyboard.

Archie watched, enthralled. But the haunting melody only reinforced his depression. He wished that the reception would end quickly, that the night would past swiftly, and that morning would come with a boat to take him off this ship and away from the Earl of Edrington and his jackanapes uncle. He was beginning to feel slightly dizzy.

The piece ended, and Archie stammered an appreciation. Haydn looked pleased, and began playing a lively contradance. Soon a small crowd had gathered around the instrument, and Archie was grateful for the opportunity to retreat.

Once again, to his annoyance, he found Edrington beside him.

"If your intent was to impress me, you succeeded," Archie said bitterly.

"My intent was to please you."

Fortunately, a tray-bearing servant passed by, and Archie availed himself of a cup. He willed his nerves to calm, but the cup trembled slightly as he moved it to his lips. Damn. Damn! Not here, please, not in front of him.

"I trust your dislike of me is not so intense that you cannot enjoy our time together?" Edrington continued softly.

Archie turned to him. "Are you always so – direct?"

"Yes."

Archie saw no coyness in his eyes. "I don't -- dislike you, my lord," he forced himself to say.

"I regret that we had no time in France to come to know each other better."

No, but you had time to know Horatio very well, didn’t you? Intimately, damn you!

"Come with me," Edrington urged, nodding towards a doorway behind the orchestra.

"I would prefer to remain here," Archie said, fixing a stare on the milling guests, the handle of his cup gripped tightly in his fingers.

"I really think you should come away. Your face is flushed." He took Archie by the elbow.

Archie suddenly felt nauseous. He had drunk that last cup far too quickly, and it threatened to rise in his gullet. Reluctantly, he allowed himself to be led into a small sitting room, mercifully empty of other guests. He eased himself onto a comfortable couch and closed his eyes.

The alcohol he'd consumed dimmed the noise of the revelers in the room beyond. He heard Edrington's footsteps leaving, the door closing softly behind him. I was looking forward to this. What a cruel twist fate has turned. Did Horatio know all along? No. He couldn't. He would never subject me to this …unless he never meant … No, he's too honourable a man to lie. But he is lonely, aboard ship. And I am there. I wonder if they are together even now.

"Perhaps this will help."

Edrington's voice startled Archie out of his tortured musings. He hadn't even heard him return. He was holding out a cloth soaked in cool water. "Refresh yourself, you will feel much better."

Archie sat motionless, his body and his mind suffering from the legacy of the rum. As much as he wanted to, he could not find the fortitude to move.

Gently, Edrington took his hands and applied the cloth to his wrists. "And now your face, eh?"

Feels good. Archie let him blot the perspiration from his forehead, and cool his cheeks. Someone is always taking care of Archie … No! "I'll do it," he said, reaching for the cloth.

"As you wish." He watched for a moment as Archie wiped at his eyes. "Is there nothing I can do to soften your heart towards me?"

Archie was grateful that he had the cloth to cover his face. He had not even tried to hide his feelings of distaste for this self-assured nobleman who had so easily bent Horatio to his will. He could not look at him without picturing him with Horatio, their bodies entwined, Horatio saying the same words to him that he'd said to Archie … 'I need you … I want you …' Oh God, does he think me made of stone? Why can't he just let me be? Why am I here?

"Would you care for tea? I will have some brought." Edrington was still regarding him, his eyes full of concern.

Or was it all pretense? No, I would not care for tea. Where are you, Horatio? Archie tried to look away, but Edrington's eyes held him. Soft, brown warmth. He asked me a question. What was it? Something about tea, or my heart …

"I -- am somewhat thirsty," he said.

He was handed a cup of fragrant tea. Where had that come from? It was strong, steaming, with an unfamiliar exotic smoky taste. Archie sipped it slowly, hoping the hot liquid would keep him alert enough not to say, or do, something stupid. Too much rum. Too much … Keep your wits about you, Archie. Don't shame yourself.

"Am I forgiven?" Edrington said, almost a whisper.

If you would only go away … I would forgive you anything if only you would let me be. So many questions. I have no answers. "Forgiven?" he repeated, dully.

"For having distressed you." He took the cup from Archie's trembling hands and set it on the table. "Shall I leave you?"

He truly is being kind to me. Horatio would be angry with me for being so boorish. He will tell him, certainly. I must conduct myself as an officer should… Archie took a deep breath. "No -- I -- should not have had so much to drink. I am feeling somewhat better now, thank you." His voice sounded distant to his own ears.

Edrington looked unconvinced. "Then you have no ill will towards me?"

Archie closed his eyes. "As I said, I had too much to drink." Do I despise you? No, not really. "I envy you."

"You -- envy me?"

Archie had not meant to say it aloud. Hold your tongue, Archie.

"Whatever for?" Edrington continued.

Why did I say that? I'm drunk. Why do I envy him? "You have everything. Wealth, power ...." I didn't notice … in France … how handsome you are. I was too afraid of dying to notice things like that.

"It might surprise you how very unsatisfying those things can be on a cold night. What does wealth and position mean without … someone …" He gently laid his arm across Archie's shoulder.

You have that, too. You can give Horatio what he wants. And I cannot. Why would he want me when he could have you? His body reacted without conscious will. Jerking away from the arm around him. Shuddering. His hands were trembling again.

Edrington removed his arm. "Forgive me, I should not have done that. I only wanted to comfort you."

"You wouldn't understand," Archie said tightly. And that, I would never tell you … no, not my dirty little secrets …

"I know what that Simpson creature did to you."

Such a simple statement, but for Archie it seemed the world had turned upside down. Because only one person had shared that confidence; the only person Archie trusted completely. He felt his stomach heave. "Horatio -- told you --?" he asked tightly.

Edrington realized too late the effect this revelation would have on Archie, but there was no going back. "Everything," he said calmly.

Pain turned to fury. "Christ. Why didn't he just put it in the dispatch pouch and send it round the Fleet? God damn it, he had no right. He had no right." He got up much too quickly, and felt a wave of dizziness. He swayed on his feet.

Gently, Edrington guided him back down. "Finish your tea, please. I would never betray a confidence, Archie. I've told no one, nor would I. You must understand, Horatio confides in me because he has no other. Whom was he to turn to, his father? Captain Pellew? Hardly.

He was so afraid to tell you of his feelings - afraid that you might reject him, don't you see?"

Archie found his cup handed to him. He downed the rest of the tea, hoping it would steady his nerves. And I did, didn't I, Horatio? I hurt you so badly …

"I assured him you would not," Edrington went on. "Anyone could see that you care for him. And -- and he for you," he added, a bit wistfully. "A man with a discerning eye, a man of culture, should be attracted to what is beautiful, don't you think? He should find himself inspired by it, as the Greeks were when they beheld the naked form. Aroused by it, if you will." He took the empty cup from Archie's hand. "Life at sea molds a man's physique in a most exquisite way."

Archie burned inside, knowing that Edrington had seen Horatio's nakedness, and he had not.

"I am reminded of Raphael's angels."

Oh no, he is more like one of Caravaggio's youths.

"A golden glow, imparted by the sun and wind."

No, a sensuous cupid, dark and ineffable … the man knows nothing of art.

"Vigorous and powerfully built. Yes, especially the hands."

Horatio has the hands of an artist. He knows nothing of Horatio either, for all that he slept with him.

"How could any connoisseur of manhood resist such temptation?"

Edrington had moved closer as he spoke. Archie had not noticed until now, the press of another thigh against his own, or the warmth of the man's breath against his cheek.

Archie closed his eyes, shutting out the unbidden picture unfolding in his mind of Edrington taking Horatio for himself. "What does it matter now? You did not resist, nor did he," he said listlessly.

"What? Oh dear me, no, I was not speaking of Horatio."

Archie turned and found Edrington's face within inches of his own. Not ... Horatio? Then --

"But of you, dear Archie."

Archie sat in shocked silence for a moment. Then he laughed mirthlessly. "A Raphael angel?"

"Do you find that amusing?" Edrington lightly brushed the hair from Archie's forehead, and let his hand come to rest on his cheek. "Then you do not know how well-favoured you are?"

Strange, unfathomable feelings stirred in Archie's heart. When Horatio touched him, he was gentle, a bit hesitant. This was different. But not like those who had hurt him. Not like Jack. Still, it frightened him. He pushed the offending hand roughly away. "Did you think I would let you fondle me?" he spat.

Edrington moved back, but only slightly. "I had hoped to be so fortunate."

"You arrogant, condescending popinjay!" Archie accused, between clenched teeth.

"You do have a way with words, Archie."

"Is this how you seduced Horatio, my lord?" He could not keep the bitterness from his voice, nor did he wish to.

Edrington sighed. "Will you not use my given name? I've taken the liberty of using yours."

"Yes, you have."

Edrington ignored the rejoinder. "But to answer your question, no. Circumstances were different. And I find myself, at times, regretting my action." He turned away, his head down.

"Really."

"Yes. You see, I think of him when I should not. Even during battle," he said with a rueful little smile. "You do love him, don't you, Archie?"

"This is -- an absurd conversation," Archie stammered. He wanted to be alone, to think. No, he wanted Horatio to return, and end this folly before he offered an unforgivable insult to the Earl of Edrington. If he hadn't already.

"If you did not, I would feel no shame in offering myself to him," Edrington went on, heedless of Archie's discomfort.

The words rankled, and he felt his anger swelling again. "You did. Did you think of me then, in Muzillac?"

"I hardly knew you."

"You hardly knew Horatio!"

"Touche, Lieutenant Kennedy." Edrington reached for the small pot and poured himself half a cup of the tea, not bothering with the sugar. He gulped it quickly. "It was you he was thinking of. When we were together. When I touched him, he was dreaming that it was you." He put the cup down, too carelessly, and it fell from the table with a clatter. "Do you know what it cost me to tell you that? Is there no pity in your heart?"

Archie was stunned. The room had gone deadly quiet, even the noise of the party outside had faded away. Edrington's gentle eyes brimmed with tears; he blinked, and one drop rolled down each cheek. All a bit too conveniently, it seemed to Archie.

"Bravo. A performance worthy of Mr. Kemble himself. If you think I will be moved by this -- you mistake me."

Edrington dabbed at his eyes with his handkerchief. "Forgive me? I sometimes emote when I am feeling choleric. But the words … the words I meant." He had regained his composure completely. "Surely you above all others understand. May I ask what you feel when you look at him?"

Archie continued to regard him levelly, but he knew his face betrayed him.

"Yes," Edrington said. "So do I. But the difference is, your sentiments are returned. And mine are not."

Archie took a deep breath. "I would not be so certain of that."

"You think he -- cares for me?"

"I … cannot speak for him." Archie rose and moved towards the door. A headache had been slowly gathering at his temples. Horatio had been gone so long.

Edrington followed him, took him by the shoulder and turned him around. "I will not be the cause of your distress, nor can I bear your scorn. I had planned a small dinner party for us -- you and Horatio and I. However, under the circumstances, perhaps you and he will enjoy it best without my presence."

Archie could not deny Hector's attractiveness. Even when he was miserable. Of course Horatio could not have resisted him. How could Archie have expected him to? His scent was intoxicating, standing so near. An expensive eau de cologne, Archie imagined. Whatever it was, it took his breath away.

"I could not ask that. We are your guests," he managed to say.

"Comfort me, Archie. Please!"

Archie found the man in his arms before he realized it. Instinctively, he clasped him close. And felt a growing hardness against his thigh. And his own desire. "M-my lord, please," he whispered.

"Hector."

Archie found it hard to speak. "Very well … Hector … I -- "

From the doorway came the sound of a throat being cleared rather too loudly.

Archie broke away, gasping.

"Horatio, do come. Archie and I were just, er --" Edrington made a vague gesture.

"Yes, I see," Horatio said, one eyebrow raised. Edrington's aide, looking somewhat flustered, stood beside him.

"Billy, a word with you." Ignoring Horatio's questioning look, he pulled the young corporal aside and quickly began a whispered conversation in the corner.

Archie had resumed his seat on the divan and was nervously playing with his hands.

Horatio sat down beside him. "Is everything -- alright?"

"No. No, everything is not alright," he said between clenched teeth.

Behind them, Edrington’s voice had risen. "Then send a man into the city if you have to!"

"Yes, sir," his aide said, too loudly and quite impudently.

"Billy, just get them," Edrington said in an exasperated voice.

The young corporal turned and left, muttering under his breath, and Edrington returned to his guests. "Would you rather I leave?" he asked.

Archie noted that Edrington was looking to him for an answer, not to Horatio. But he was unable to speak.

"Perhaps a moment or two alone?" It was Horatio who answered.

Edrington gave a slight little smile and retreated.

Horatio reached out and took Archie's hand. "You look pale. Are you ill?" His eyes were full of concern.

"No. I overindulged myself in the punch. I am feeling somewhat recovered now."

Horatio picked up the small cup from the floor near his feet. He looked at Archie curiously. "It isn't just that, is it?"

"I don't know what to say." I'm afraid. Afraid of losing you. Of losing myself. To him. Archie longed to rest his head on Horatio's shoulder. But not here, where anyone might walk in. It would be a fine row-de-dow for the Port Admiral, or Lady Eliot, or Captain Somebody-or-other, to walk in and find Horatio embracing him. Archie thought about that. Lady Eliot would shriek. Admiral Crayford might ask to sit between them. An amused smile played at his lips.

"I love you," Horatio whispered.

Archie looked up, still smiling. He sighed. "I know. You love him too, don't you?"

Horatio lowered his eyes. "Would that be -- so difficult for you to bear?"

Archie regarded him earnestly. He felt suddenly calmer, as if a burden had been lifted. What he had suspected, no, what he had known, had just been affirmed, but his earlier anger was gone.

He shook his head slightly.

"Nothing will change what I feel for you. You do believe me, don't you?"

"Yes," Archie said simply.

Horatio smiled, relief obvious in his countenance. "Well then, we said we'd enjoy ourselves. We'll have dinner, and a night alone together. What could be better than that?"

The depth of the love Archie saw in Horatio's eyes tugged at his heart. I will not deny you this, Horatio. How could I? You have given me so much, risked everything for me, brought me back from death … If only you knew how I long to know you as he did. But that will never be …"Yes," he said firmly. "What could be better?"

When Edrington returned, Horatio was standing before a mirror in a gold leaf frame, adjusting his collar.

"Don't bother," Edrington said. "You won't be needing the coat."

"For dinner? No?" Horatio looked puzzled.

"Dinner will be informal. By the by, I have settled the matter you wrote to me about concerning Miss Matthews."

"I hope I wasn't presuming," Horatio said anxiously.

"Certainly not. You know you have only to ask. However, I have done better than merely supplying money. If she were to be left in the care of a sister, who is to say the money will not be misspent? So. I have found her a position." Edrington looked quite pleased with himself.

"A position?" Horatio was surprised.

"You did say she could do simple chores. Yes, a position. At my estate. She can work in the kitchen. My cook is an old mother hen herself, and will see she's properly treated."

"Hector, I don't know how to thank you. Matthews will be overjoyed."

"Actually, it was Lady Edrington's idea."

"Lady Edrington -- your mother?" Horatio asked.

"No, darling. Lady Edrington, my wife."

Horatio coughed violently. "Your -- wife?"

"The woman to whom I am married, Horatio. You seem surprised," Edrington said with an amused smile.

"Well, yes."

"Every man should have one."

"Does she know -- "

"She has always known."

"And she doesn't object?"

"Of course not. Would you, if you were my wife?"

Archie laughed softly, both at Edrington's joke and Horatio's obvious discomfiture.

"I assure you," Edrington went on, "she is quite content. Her alternative, you see, was marrying my brother. She is a lovely woman, and we have the most delightful conversations when I am at home. And now, if you please --" he ushered them out the rear door, which led to a short hall and the entrances to several cabins.

Horatio recognized it as the room they had first been brought to. He was beginning to get a feel for the layout of the barge. But something had been added in their absence -- a large tub, brimming with steaming, scented water. Several small tables had been placed around the perimeter. Billy was putting the finishing touches on the formal place settings that adorned each.

Horatio gawked at the display. "We will be dining -- in the tub?" he asked, his expressive brown eyes displaying a mixture of disbelief and eagerness.

Edrington smiled broadly and removed his coat. "I hope you find the prospect intriguing."

"It will most certainly be a new experience," Horatio said. "I suppose we must remove our, er --" he brushed his fingers over the buttons of his coat.

"I would recommend it," Edrington replied, amused.

Obediently, Horatio stripped off his coat and shirt.

Edrington had taken a seat so that his aide could remove his boots. "I believe Archie might want your assistance, Horatio," he called.

Archie was standing to the side, his back to the others. Horatio came up behind him and enveloped him in an embrace. "This will be pleasant, Archie, I know it will. You do want to, don't you?" he asked, whispering the words into Archie's ear and kissing him lightly on the neck.

Archie relaxed in his arms. "You do," he said softly.

Horatio enjoyed slowly loosening the ties of Archie's shirt, letting his hands stroke his back and chest before he eased the shirt over his head. The sight of the terrible scar that covered most of Archie's shoulder, and the jagged purple line that inched across his chest, brought unbidden tears to Horatio's eyes. He had only seen the fresh wound once, as the ship's surgeon had changed the bandages when necessary. Without thinking, he gasped.

On hearing Horatio's exclamation, Archie covered the disfigurement with his hand, a pained expression on his face. "Let me have my shirt," he said, reaching for the garment draped across Horatio's arm.

Horatio cursed himself silently. He took Archie's hand and held it in his own. Tenderly, he bent forward and kissed the hurt. "I was only startled because I realized how much you must have suffered. It makes no difference."

Archie opened his mouth to protest, but Horatio caught him in a kiss, and held him there until he ceased struggling in his arms. It was the first time Horatio had held him like that, flesh to flesh. The feel of Archie so close exhilarated him, and he didn't want the moment to end.

"Gentlemen, there will be time for that later. Our dinner is growing cold." Edrington was staring at them, his hands on his hips. He was stark naked, obviously enjoying the admiration he saw in the other men's eyes. "Were you thinking of bathing in your britches?" he asked, grinning.

Horatio glanced at Archie. "I suppose we should --"

"May I be of assistance?"

Archie had no time to reply as Edrington approached and began pulling his trousers and drawers down, gazing at the revealed cock as reverently as a mystic adoring a holy icon. He held Archie's hands as he stepped out of his clothing, then brought them to his lips, kissing each one fondly. Briefly, their eyes met.

Horatio had removed his own garments, and blushed when the sight of Archie's complete nakedness produced an erection.

Edrington gave him a knowing smile. "Billy, you may pour the wine now," he said.

Gingerly, Horatio stepped into the tub, taking Archie by the hand and helping him in. Edrington held back, and sat so that Archie was between him and Horatio. The water was perfumed, but not strongly enough to conflict with the tempting aroma coming from the small hand painted china plates being passed around.

Horatio leaned back against the side of the tub, reveling in the exotic sensation. He gazed wonderingly at the dish before him, creamy pale yellow mounds flecked with tiny black slivers. "Eggs? And --?" He took a small bite. The taste was totally unfamiliar, but delicious. "Mmm."

"Truffles," Archie supplied.

"A man of refinement, I see," Edrington said, smiling at him. "You've not had them, Horatio?"

"No, never. They're wonderful."

"The Frogs call them black diamonds. Devilish hard to find these days." Edrington winked at Billy. "I don't know how he did it."

"Ah bowt 'em from t'cook at Lord Burnham's in t'tahn. A gurt miser, tha knawst," the young aide offered. "Cost tha dearly."

"Billy, the statement was rhetorical." He glared at the lad, who did not look in the least bit chastened.

Smiling smugly to himself, Billy whisked away the plates as they finished the eggs, refilled their glasses with sparkling white wine, and presented a new dish.

"Aphrodite sprang from the sea on an oyster shell and gave birth to Eros," Edrington said loftily, taking the shell in his hand and sipping the juice from it before sliding the oyster itself into his mouth. He toyed with it, letting it slide over and under his tongue before finally swallowing it, closing his eyes in feigned ecstasy; a tiny smile played at the corners of his mouth, then he slowly ran his tongue over his lips. His eyes were on Archie. "The perfect morsel of delight. Fleshy, turgid, slightly salty … oh my, you've lost one."

Archie, who had been watching in fascination, looked at the empty shell in his hand. The cool juices ran down his palm into the tub.

"No harm done, I am an expert fisherman." Edrington felt the water beside him, then ran his hands along Archie's thighs. "I believe I have found it, here." He plucked the oyster from Archie's lap, fondling Archie's cock in the process. "And I seem to have caught a minnow as well."

The euphoria imparted by the white port he'd been sipping, and the tickling of the probing fingers made Archie laugh softly. He would not have believed, earlier, that he could have felt so at ease in Edrington's presence. Certainly not being touched in that manner. He caught Horatio smiling at their play, and blushed slightly.

"Perhaps it is a bit cleaner than before, but too well poached for my tastes." Hector held the oyster between his fingers for a moment, then tossed it back onto the plate.

"These are delicious," Horatio said. "We've not dined so well since … well, perhaps never."

"I find asparagus to be a pleasing accompaniment to oysters," Hector said, selecting a firm green stalk from his own plate and offering to feed it to Archie.

Archie opened his mouth and let him slowly push the asparagus in. Was it the taste of the soft, buttery vegetable that caused a slight shiver, or was it the sound of Edrington's voice? He wasn't sure, as he found himself asking for another.

"That's a good lad, eat it all," Edrington whispered, enjoying himself immensely. "Savour it before you swallow."

Perhaps it was the wine. Archie was suddenly ravenous. Billy passed around a bowl of firm, peppery radishes, and Archie helped himself to several.

"I am now in the mood for something sweet," Edrington said. "The burgundy, if you please, Billy."

The clove-infused red wine was a delightful contrast to the pungent food.

"Now that we have prepared our palates for dessert, would you care for a raspberry, Archie?" Edrington offered, taking one from the bowl.

"Yes, thank you. I haven't had fresh berries in years."

"Come and take it." Hector placed one ripe berry between his teeth.

Archie looked at Horatio. "He's jesting, isn't he?"

"Probably not." Horatio eyed him with amusement.

"A little joke at my expense?" Archie asked. "You don't think I'll do it, do you?"

Edrington shook his head and smiled wantonly.

Archie leaned over and deftly bit off half the berry. The sweet juices burst delightfully onto his tongue. The reckless look in Edrington's eyes magnetized him, and he kept his face close, only to be ensnared by gentle arms around his shoulders. He trembled as Edrington's tongue lightly licked the red juice from his lips before kissing him chastely, an ever so slight brushing of mouth against mouth that caused him to gasp.

Archie closed his eyes. The next kiss was neither slight nor chaste. He felt that if Hector removed his arms from around him, he would slip under the water. "Why -- why are you doing this?" he breathed.

"Because I love raspberries, properly served."

Somewhere nearby, plates clattered and glasses clinked as they were taken away. Strong arms were helping him out of the tub, and Billy stood ready with warmed towels. It was a bit disconcerting, having this young man who was a virtual stranger to him rubbing his intimate parts with a towel, but Archie could not help luxuriating in the feel of the soft, absorbent cloth against his skin, and he made no protest as Billy guided him towards the bed. The covers had been turned back, revealing lustrous, emerald green silk sheets.

"If you continue spoiling us like this, we will not want to return to our duties," Horatio said, thinking of the long months at sea without fresh water, and nights of sleeping in filthy clothing in his cramped quarters.

Edrington smiled at him, taking him by the hand at drawing him over to the other side of the bed. "Nothing would please me more than to keep you with me forever. Although I suppose it would mean a court-martial for all of us."

"I am seriously considering that it might be worth it," Horatio returned.

Billy had coated his hands with a pleasantly fragrant oil and was massaging Archie's shoulders and back.

"I am very fond of that particular oil," Edrington said. "It is both relaxing and … invigorating. Billy has the most amazing hands, don't you think?"

But Archie was too far gone in pleasure to reply. The feel of the cool, smooth sheets beneath him, the intoxicating scent of lavender and oil, the relaxing, firm stroking of his tense muscles, sent tingles up and down his spine. He had barely noticed that Horatio had lain beside him until he was touched lightly on the cheek. Archie smiled. Horatio was receiving the same treatment from Edrington himself.

"Do you like our bed, Archie?" Edrington asked.

"Mmm."

"Good. I want you to experience the greatest pleasure I can offer you both. I know what Horatio likes. Shall I show you?"

Waving Billy away, he turned Horatio over and began playing with his nipples, teasing them into firm little peaks with his tongue. Horatio shivered as Edrington stroked his cock lightly. The response was immediate, Horatio stiffened and arched his hips in anticipation.

Basking in the afterglow of the massage, Archie could only watch as Edrington continued his ministrations, drawing his tongue up the length of Horatio's cock and down again, kissing his balls, and occasionally moving up to impart the flavour of desire to Horatio's lips. Edrington's own erection dripped copiously, but if it pained him he gave no evidence of it.

Archie unconsciously reached for his own cock. It felt good to touch himself openly like that, unafraid of prying eyes. Frustration had driven the desire to do this from his mind years ago. There had been little moments of fleeting pleasure, when he was alone and thinking of Horatio, but never an erection.

Never what he now saw Horatio experiencing under Edrington's masterful hands -- he would suck briefly on the swollen organ, then release it, making Horatio groan with unsatisfied dismay. He flicked his tongue around the tip, then laved a path up Horatio's belly to his throat, where he nuzzled at his neck and whispered words in his ear that Archie strained to hear. Horatio's head tossed wantonly on the pillow, as he mouthed soft entreaties … "Please … oh yes …yes."

It wasn't so bad, Archie thought to himself, to watch Horatio being pleasured. The look on Horatio's face was one of ecstasy, though ecstasy mixed with the frustration of being made to wait for climax until it pleased Lord Edrington to give it to him. Horatio's eyes were half closed, his breathing turned to panting, as he pleaded with Edrington to let him come.

Archie sighed. How could I deny you, my love … I only wish that I could … be him.

He massaged his own cock, his eyes tightly shut, imagining it was he and not Hector making Horatio beg for more.

Horatio could stand it no longer. He reached for his cock, his body quivering with desire from head to toe.

"Don't be naughty," Edrington scolded, firmly pinning Horatio's hands behind his back. He pulled the ribbon from his own hair and loosely tied Horatio's hands. He turned him on his side, so he was unable to rub against the mattress. "That's much better." Then he ran a finger down the crevice of Horatio's arse, sliding it in a mere inch.

"Oh Hector, this is torture," Horatio moaned. His back arched, his hands rebelled against the restraint, but every movement only served to fuel the fire in his loins, to make the ache worse until he thought he could not endure it another moment.

"What do you want, love?"

"You know what I want," Horatio gasped. His eyes were wild, desperate for release.

"Tell me what you want, Horatio." Edrington's gentle voice teased.

Lying on his side, Horatio could see Archie beside him, his eyes still closed, his hand around his own hardened cock. "Oh God," he breathed. "Archie …"

Edrington loosed Horatio's hands from the bond and turned him onto his stomach. He plunged two fingers into a jar of oil on the bedside table and quickly lubricated the puckered hole. Horatio pushed back eagerly against the probing fingers, sinking them to the knuckles. "Ahh …"

"No, not that way," Edrington chided, slipping his fingers out.

Horatio groaned. "Please …" His body was writhing against the satiny sheets, which only served to increase his ravenous need. "Archie …"

The sound of his name on Horatio's lips melded with his daydream and slowly brought Archie out of his reverie. He saw Horatio lying face down, his buttocks raised, waiting for Hector. No … for me. He spoke my name … For me.

"Take him, Archie. He belongs to you. He would do anything to have you fuck him."

Archie heard Hector's voice gently whispering in his ear, felt the strong, confident hand greasing his shaft with the same oil he'd used on Horatio, pulling him over and guiding his body into position. Archie could not think, he could only react, as the wonderful new sensations coursed through his body, culminating in his loins. Horatio was his. Archie rammed his slickened cock into Horatio's arse.

"No, slowly!" Edrington cried. "He has never --"

But Archie did not hear him, or Horatio's cry of pain. There was only pleasure, and the sweet, hot desire to lose himself inside his beloved. Archie kept his eyes closed, fearing this was all part of his fantasy. But the urges were too strong, too deliciously beautiful to be imagined. He pounded his fierce, burning need into his lover's body until release came in a great torrent, years of abuse and denial obliterated in one sublime paroxysm of deliverance and redemption.

The sound of his own panting echoed in his ears as he struggled for breath. Slowly, he opened his eyes. Horatio's hands … the long sensual fingers were clutching at the sheets, his knuckles white with the effort of restraining his cries. His lush lashes were wet with tears, and his shoulders were marked with the small wounds left by Archie's clutches as he dug his fingers heedlessly into the tanned flesh.

Horror gripped him and his breath caught in his throat. "What have I done? Horatio …."

"It's alright, love." Horatio whispered, his voice shaking.

"No! I hurt you. I'm so sorry." Archie's lip was trembling. "Oh God, I didn't mean to …"

"Don't ever say that to me again," Horatio said hoarsely. "Don't ever apologize to me again. For anything." He rolled from beneath Archie and pulled him into a kiss, probing the depths of his mouth with his tongue until his lungs ached to breathe again, feasting on the honeyed remains of Archie's hunger for him.

Archie was left gasping. "But --"

"Don't. The pain was -- only for a moment. And then … oh God, Archie, just hold me. Can it be possible to love anyone so much?"

Archie wrapped his arms around his lover, thrilling to the trembling he felt, Horatio's breath hot against his cheek. He held him tightly, their sweat-slicked chests pressed close, their heartbeats pounding as one; and he knew that there was no denying it, ever again. There was a completeness to his being that he had never felt before, a melding, at long last, with the other half of his soul.

"You are so pure and so perfect, Horatio," he whispered.

"Oh Archie, what a thing to say," Horatio said, laughing softly.

"No, truly you are. I will never be worthy of you."

Horatio sighed. "I am hardly perfect. And if you knew the sort of thoughts I'd had about you at the most inopportune times, you would not think me in the least bit pure."

"Inopportune times?" Archie asked curiously, nestling securely in the crook of Horatio’s arm.

"Do you remember when I was showing off my new uniform? And you were looking for patches? I was hoping that you were -- looking at my bum."

"I was," Archie said.

Horatio gave him a gentle nudge. "That isn't the worst of it. Once during Sunday services, while Captain Pellew was reading from the Scriptures, and your leg brushed against mine … I couldn't help it. It just … happened. Bowlesie saw, and I tried folding my hands in my lap but that only made it worse. I turned as red as an apple."

"Oh God, that must've been awful." Archie was laughing uproariously.

"I should be hurt that you didn't notice."

"I was listening to the Scriptures," Archie said solemnly.

Soon they were giggling like schoolboys, hugging, caressing, in a moment of pure joy.

Suddenly, it dawned on them that they were alone, and had been for some time.

"Yes. I wonder where he went? I suppose he and Billy …" Archie let the thought trail off.

"The lad must have an arse like a barrel."

The unexpected lewd comment from Horatio made Archie grin.

Horatio felt a warmth spread from his head to his toes. He ran his hand over every exposed inch of that precious face, stroking his temples, then entwining his fingers in the tousled hair that lay like a halo across the pillow.

Archie sighed contentedly. "Horatio -- I want you. I want you to make love to me." Almost shyly, he reached for Horatio's crotch.

"Are you sure?" Horatio hardened under the inviting fingers, but his features betrayed doubt and concern.

Archie looked down. "It wouldn't be like -- the others. Not with you."

Horatio pulled him close. He could feel Archie's throbbing heart against his chest, matching his own. "Do you want to lie on the bed?" he asked gently.

"Yes. I'm afraid to move. If I do, all this might melt away like a dream …"

"Oh, Archie. Do you want me to do it like he did, with my tongue?"

"I don't know if I'd like that. But if you want to --"

"I want to please you." Archie started to roll over, but Horatio held him. "No, I want to see your face. I think if you put your legs over my shoulders --"

Archie moved to comply. "I've never had it like this," he said.

"Nor have I, but I think it will do. Are you comfortable?"

"Very."

Horatio bent down and gave Archie's balls a playful lick before moving to the puckered hole. He teased the rim a few times before plunging in, causing Archie's hips to buck spasmodically. Horatio paused. "Do you like it?"

"Oh, yes … yes." Archie was pumping himself.

Horatio gently pried his hand away. "Mine," he whispered, grasping Archie's cock firmly and stroking it, as he returned to laving his arse with licks and kisses.

"Oh God, Horatio, I'll come before you get inside me," Archie groaned.

"Then I'd best hurry, hadn't I?" Horatio said. The small pot of oil was still beside the bed. Horatio quickly anointed himself and eased in slowly, watching Archie's face for signs of pain or discomfort.

Archie pressed upwards, willingly taking in more of him, his eyes full of love and trust. "I dreamed you did this … dreamed it every night."

"I wanted this for so long," Horatio breathed, knowing he would soon reach a plateau where speech and coherent thought would be impossible. "So sweet …ah, God, Archie …"

Archie moved with him, became one with him as if they'd done this act a thousand times. Each slow, longing thrust was like a song, filling Horatio's heart with an unquenchable need to give everything he was, everything he ever would be, to his lover. Archie's hands reached out and stroked the straining muscles of his chest, pulled at his shoulders, urging him deeper, demanding more of him. Horatio surrendered to Archie's guidance as the fever built within him, knowing he was wanted as a parched man wants water, feeling Archie's need with every insistent tug, every matching thrust from the body beneath him. His eyes were fixed on Archie's face, as if he could not bear to look away, to deny himself the wanton joy his saw in the beloved blue eyes. "I love you more than life," he whispered, delirious, reeling, as Archie responded with an ecstatic cry of climax.

Horatio passed into a radiant world beyond reality, his consciousness swimming in a sea of otherwordly kaleidoscope colours. His hand was drenched with his lover's hot seed, his own store spent in firey rivers of release, each one inducing a rapturous cry from Archie's throat.

Riding a tidal wave of inexpressible joy, he collapsed breathlessly into Archie's waiting arms. For long moments, they lay clinging to each other, winded, touching as if they could never touch again, seeking each other's mouths and the cleaving sweet taste of their mutual need, inhaling the scent of sated desire like the very breath of life itself. Slowly, reluctantly, they emerged into reality, as the soft perfumed air in the room chilled their heaving bodies.

Horatio pulled the sheet over them, and stroked his lover's cheek with his finger. "I am yours always," he said, barely above a whisper.

Archie gave a wistful little smile, then sighed plaintively.

"What's the matter, love?"

"It was -- magical. I wanted it to be like that, for you. And I didn't --''

"Shh." Horatio pressed his finger against Archie's lips. "We have forever."

"If only we did." Archie's eyes had gone distant, as if looking over some future horizon.

"We will be together. I promised you."

"I want to believe that. But you know as well as I that the Admiralty --"

"The Admiralty be damned. I will not lose you."

Exhausted, they slept in each other's arms.

Horatio felt a gentle nudge at his shoulder. He stretched languidly and opened his eyes to narrow slits, not really wanting to move.

"Sit up, there's a good lad, the night is yet young." Hector handed him a cup of tea.

The emotions of the last few hours had been so intense, it took Horatio a moment to recall where he was. Gradually, the fog lifted from his mind and he shivered slightly.

Hector pulled the bedcovers over Horatio's shoulders and sat beside him on the bed. "You look sated," he said.

Horatio smiled contentedly. "So do you."

Hector nodded. "I thought it prudent to seek my own satisfaction elsewhere. You have slept with an angel, and I with a wild beast." He rubbed his back, wincing. "I find myself in great need of civilized companionship."

Horatio bit back a response, deciding that he knew all he wanted or needed to know of Billy Scathelock's carnal talents. He polished off the last of his tea. "There is one thing I must ask," he said, setting his cup down beside the bed. "How could you have known? What if -- all this -- had failed? God knows that it would have done to poor Archie. Have you any idea how dangerous that was?"

Hector regarded him evenly. "The two most dangerous pursuits a man can engage in are love and war. We are novices to neither, you and I. One must ask if the prize is worth the risk. I trust in this case, it was."

Horatio gazed at Archie, sleeping peacefully with his arm under his head, and nodded.

"It is precious, is it not?" Edrington continued. "So many are forced into relationships not of their choosing, and are fortunate to achieve mere harmony, one day much like another, day after day, until death brings a welcome end to their tedious existence. More often they are at odds, without even the comfort of amity, expending whatever passions they have in incessant hostility. Others are denied even that, going to their graves alone and cold, never having lived at all. It is a rare thing to be given so great a love, Horatio."

"Yes." Horatio looked up at him, his eyes soft. "And an even rarer thing to be given two." He reached out and cupped Edrington's chin in his hand, pulling his face closer and kissing him lightly on the lips.

Hector let out a little breath, an expression of amazement crossing his handsome features. "Horatio .. what are you saying? I did not allow myself to hope that -- do you mean it?"

"Of course I mean it," Horatio whispered softly.

Edrington covered his face, unable to suppress the tide of emotion building in his heart. "Oh Lord, I am undone."

Horatio held him close, kissing the tears from his cheeks. He wrapped his fingers in the soft unruly blonde curls that cascaded down his shoulders. "I couldn't write it in a letter. But now … I do love you."

"Truly?" Hector's voice was shaking.

"Yes." Horatio kissed him again. "Yes."

Together, they roused Archie, who awoke sleepy-eyed and smiling like a satisfied cat. He looked around, as if assuring himself that he was not dreaming.He reached out and took Hector's hand in his own, sighing happily.

Horatio placed his own hand atop theirs. "I -- we wanted to thank you. Somehow it seems insufficient."

Edrington feigned a frown. "Damned insufficient. Let's retire to the bed where you can more properly thank me."

Archie's little smile broadened into a wide grin.

Horatio started to stretch out again.

"Not there," Hector said, eyeing the disheveled sheets covered with the evidence of love-making. "It looks as if Tiberius Caesar hosted an orgy on that bed. My room, if you don't mind."

He motioned towards the door beside the bed. "This way."

"But we're -- naked," Horatio protested.

"No one shall see you who hasn't already had that pleasure," Edrington said, opening the door.

Horatio was relieved to see that the door opened directly into another bedroom. Billy was filling a basin with fresh water. He was nearly naked himself, having only his drawers on. Edrington pinched him on the bum as he passed. "The bed in there wants changing," he said, nodding towards the other room.

"Ah'm nut t'chember maid," Billy said sullenly as he shuffled towards the door.

"He's really a good lad, just somewhat lacking in manners," Edrington said loudly enough for his aide to hear him as he departed. "I should flog him more often."

Billy turned and grinned before disappearing through the door. "Ee, willt tha?"

Edrington rolled his eyes in mock apology. "I can't imagine why I tolerate his impertinence," he said.

"I can," Archie whispered to Horatio. The bed was turned down and he eased himself between the soft sheets

Edrington touched Horatio's cock lightly. "I have had this pleasure," he said, pulling back the sheet and grasping Archie's firmly in his hand. "But not this one."

He smiled broadly as Archie hardened in his grip. "You are a lusty bugger, Archie Kennedy. I knew you had it in you. You don't mind, do you?" he glanced at Horatio, who stammered something.

He manoeuvered Archie onto his side, and nestled in front of him. Archie's cock pressed eagerly against Hector's buttocks. "Come here, Horatio, lie down beside me. No, the other way."

Horatio obeyed, wondering if he would survive what was about to happen.

"One fore and one aft," Hector laughed. "Do I have that right?"

"Aye, sir, you do," Archie returned.

This was an arrangement Horatio would never have imagined, but it was obvious what was wanted. He relaxed, letting Archie’s thrusts push Hector’s cock into his mouth, sucking greedily and feeling his own enveloped in the hot wetness of Hector's mouth. He hoped he was giving as much pleasure as he was receiving. His tongue sought out all the secret crevices of Hector’s crotch, letting the taste and the dark, mysterious scent of hot arousal send him further over the edge. He felt Hector’s finger enter his arse, then two fingers. He could hear Archie moaning his own pleasure as Hector pressed back against him, impaling himself again and again.

Archie had his arm around Hector’s chest, pinching his nipples as he murmured his name like a prayer, fucking him into oblivion. The hot, moist cavity sheathed him like a velvet glove as he groaned his pleasure into the rigid muscles of Hector's back. He nipped at the sculpted shoulders with his teeth, relishing the little convulsions each bite sent through the body he was claiming as his own. "Want you … want you …" he murmured, stoking the furnace of his own passion, knowing he could not deny himself release much longer.

Hector knew he was close to delirium himself, pressed between his lovers, demanding and surrendering at the same time. Horatio's silken tongue swirled around his cock, then the hot mouth engulfed him utterly, devouring him, pulling and sucking as if he could not get enough. And Archie filled him completely … Archie's hands were touching him everywhere, igniting little fires across his chest, his back, his hips, his buttocks, his face. His very breath threatened to stop as he was consumed in emotions so all-encompassing that time itself had no meaning, and there was only dark-haired Horatio, sensual, full-lipped Horatio, Dionysus who drove him to madness with passion … and Archie, beautiful, tortured Archie, his angel of light, his sun and moon … his loves. Beyond thought, he came into the eager mouth, searing Horatio's throat with his release, drinking deeply as Horatio responded and filled him with ecstasy, wanting to cry out with abandoned joy as Archie convulsed against him, shouting his name.

They lay side by side, exhausted, each in his own after-dream of bliss.

"I am ready to die now," Hector said, his eyes closed. "It would be fitting, don't you think, if I were to die now, in this one perfect moment?"

"It would not," Archie said, still panting. "Then we should never be able to do this again."

"Dear Archie, come here." He pulled Archie on top of him and kissed him "I love you, too. How could I not?"

Archie's eyes softened. "How could I not," he whispered. He nestled his head on Hector's chest, his hair falling in wild disarray around him.

"You've let it grow long, I see." Hector pulled his fingers through the silken strands.

"Horatio likes it that way."

"So do I."

Archie rested contentedly, listening to the throbbing heartbeat of his new-found lover, until he felt his strength returning. Then he sought out the tub in his bedroom. The water was cool now, and it felt good against his burning skin. He quickly cleaned himself and toweled off.

He found Horatio and Hector still in bed, their arms wrapped around each other. As he approached, Hector started to rise.

"You aren't thinking of leaving?"

"Why Archie, what did you have in mind?" Edrington asked in feigned innocence.

"It seems that Horatio and I have been doing all the work around here. I think you should do your share as well." With a saucy grin, he plopped himself face down on the bed.

Edrington gaped. "Mercy! You want me to – "

"Do you think I can't handle it?" Archie ground himself against the bed, wriggling his hips wantonly.

"Horatio," Hector whispered, leering, "I might not let you take him back."

Hector entered him slowly, waiting for the taut muscles to accommodate his girth. He grasped Archie's buttocks, alternately pinching and stroking, soothing and urging his partner on at the same time. He kept up the slow, deliberate rhythm, only moving faster when Archie began bucking under him, his body ready, asking for more. "Want all of it," Archie moaned, running his fingers through his own hair. "Now, now … mmm."

Hector wanted it to last longer, loving the feel of Archie clenching him, then releasing him, moving his hips from side to side and then thrusting upwards to claim him to the hilt. But the sight of Archie playing with his tresses, debauching himself, begging for all of him, was more than he could bear. "Oh God. Archie … Archie …" It was over in a mutual white-hot moment, air rushing from their lungs as their seed burst in unison from their straining organs.

Hector fell back on the pillow, gasping for breath. "Damn. That was – indescribable. Did I please you, Archie?"

"I feel like I've been gored by an ox."

Edrington looked worried. "Oh my …"

"No, it feels good." Archie sighed deeply.

"Perhaps I will no longer satisfy you," Horatio said teasingly.

"Perhaps you should find out." Archie took his hand and tugged, pulling Horatio on top of him.

"Good Lord, Archie, you are insatiable. What have I done?" Hector murmured.

Morning dawned bright and clear aboard the Serpentine. Reluctantly, Horatio and Archie pulled on their uniforms and made an effort at taming the tangles in their hair.

Edrington looked at them wistfully "I cannot say goodbye, I never could."

"We will see you again," Horatio said.

"When I can. There is one thing, before you leave." He produced a small pair of scissors and cut a lock of Archie’s hair.

After they had gone, he opened the gold locket he wore around his neck and placed it beside the brown curl that already lay inside.

Back on the deck of the Indy, Horatio and Archie surveyed familiar sights. They were preparing to put out to sea again, and all hands were busy with ropes and sails and a hundred other tasks.

"Horatio … I hope you aren't angry over the way I treated him earlier. Hector, that is."

"It's alright, Archie. I'm sure he understood."

"I miss him already. It is strange, isn't it. Yesterday I hated him. But now …"

Horatio took Archie's hand and gave it a quick squeeze. "I know. But we have each other." He frowned suddenly. "Captain Pellew. He expects an accounting.What are we going to tell him?"

"We? You’re the senior officer," Archie said innocently.

"That is not helpful."

"Tell him Lord Edrington set it up so he could watch us fuck each other."

"Archie!"

(Continued in The Captain's Lesson)

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