Betaed by Skippyscatt

Authors note: In reading all my reviews, (I read all of them, whether I reply or not.) I keep
running across the same comment in different words. So, explanation time: I'm using the morals
of medieval times. In that time, a master had the right, in fact the duty, to use corporeal
punishment on his underlings. No one thought a thing about it. In fact some masters had trouble
with the law if they didn't beat their underlings and they got into mischief. Heero isn't being
mean to Duo if he spanks him.

~ * ~

Duo gave the chain a kick, making it rattle across the floor. He was cleaning the sleeping
chamber, the only room he could be in for now.

Duo was still mad at Heero. It wasn't as if he'd tried to worry him, it had just happened. Now he
was stuck here in this room until Heero got over his snit. Duo picked up the chamber pot and
took it to the door of the bathing room. Putting it down he pushed it into the room as far as he
could. He hoped Heero would let him loose long enough to clean the bathroom, empty the pot
and put it back into the washstand.

He gave the chain another kick as he turned around to go to the desk to start his writing
exercises. The musical jingle of the links skittering across the floor made him think.

Duo settled to do his writing, swinging his leg idly. The chain danced across the slate floor.

Heero entered the room quietly and watched Duo write for a moment. When he cleared his throat
Duo jumped then hurried to help him with his house coat and mail.

Heero eased his shoulders; all the sitting had made his back ache. Every morning more people
came to him for judgments. He knew he was going to have to make a Progress soon. Things
were still out of hand from changing Rulers so often and so quickly.. The thought didn't please
him in the least, there was so much he needed to do and so little time. He was going to have to
establish a good Royal Council soon. He had a few people picked and his eye on others. He
would write his letters within the next month. And he wasn't taking no for an answer. He was
spread too thin.

Duo knew Heero was tired, he could see the lines around his eyes and mouth. He was exhausted
and no end in sight Duo felt bad about making Heero worry but not that bad. He was going to
carry his scheme through. He began by kicking the chain out of his way as he went to put
Heero's things in the armoire.

Heero watched Duo as he went about his duties, kicking the chain out of his way each time he
turned. Duo went from the armoire to the oriel window and from there to the bed. As he walked
the chain dragged across the floor jangling loudly.

Heero settled into his chair with a pile of documents to read. Duo returned to his writing. The
scratch of his pen across the cheap paper let Heero know that he was diligently working on
learning to write.

Heero didn't look up from his document, he just called Duo. "Duo, will you get me some tea?
And a cake. I'm hungry."

Duo just stuck his foot into Heero's line of vision and shook it, making the chain rattle loudly.
Heero jumped slightly then snarled and rang for the footman. When he came in, Heero repeated
his request adding 'for two, please'

The foot man returned quickly with the requested food as well as cookies and something Heero
didn't recognize but Duo obviously did. He made a soft cooing sound and took the tray from the
footman.

Placing the tray on the side table, Duo poured tea, cut cake and scooped pudding. He brought
Heero a plate and took one for himself. He settled back at the desk to eat his treat and finish his
work. He swung his leg as he ate. Heero glared at his back.

Duo gave Heero an impish look over one shoulder. He knew Heero was watching him so he
stuck his tongue out, flicked the ball over his lip, then flicked his tongue at Heero. He turned
back to his work. Heero gave up on his.

Heero watched Duo as he made notes for a few minutes then, forgetting Heero was in the room,
Duo opened the bottom drawer and took out one of the books Heero had been trying to translate.
He opened it and began to read from it. Heero jumped up and went to him.

"You can read this?"

Duo flinched in surprise. He nodded and waited for Heero to explain.

"I've been trying to translate this for months. It doesn't make any sense at all. Every time I think
I'm getting somewhere, my theories fall apart. I can't seem to find the key to their alphabet. Can
you tell me what it's about?"

Duo nodded. He took his slate and wrote. 'Not my language, but I read. You translate? No?"

"No, I can't translate it. I told you, I can't find a key to the alphabet. Tell me what spells are in
it."

Duo shook his head. "No spell. Stories." Duo slapped the slate down on the desk. He didn't
know the words. "No words. Draw." Duo drew a crude picture of a winged man. Pointed to it
then to the book.

"Winged men. It's about winged men? That's . . . silly. Why would they write such stories in a
book so well appointed? With locks even."

Duo shrugged. At one time it had been the fashion for ladies to read such books to each other.
They were meant to be status symbols as well as books. He tried to explain again. Heero wasn't
getting it and Duo poked him in the chest to try to make him pay attention. But Heero was off on
a rant.

"Duo, don't pull jokes. I need to know what's in that book. Come on."

Duo wrote on his slate, tapped his chalk to get Heero's attention. "Not spells. Not important
book. Woman read. Children book."

Heero sighed. "Duo. No one would waste that much time on books for women, especially
children's stories. What are you trying to hide?"

Duo finally gave up he yanked at his hair and kicked the desk in frustration. He couldn't
understand why Heero wouldn't believe him. The country this book came from was rich beyond
belief, even Heero's wealth paled in comparison. Duo knew this; how, he didn't know, but he
did.

Heero realized that Duo couldn't explain better than he had. He just didn't have the vocabulary
yet.

But Duo was beyond angry, he was frustrated and furious. He threw the slate across the room
and the chalk followed. He scooped up all his practice and tossed it on the floor. The ink pot was
soon to follow but Heero got to Duo before he could make a mess with it. He wrapped his arms
around Duo and held him. Duo struggled furiously, punching and kicking

"Stop, quit that. I don't want to hurt you. Duo, stop it."

Duo struggled for a second longer then burst into angry tears. He punched Heero in the chest, but
it lacked any true strength. Heero ignored it.

When Heero started for the bed Duo began to struggle again. Heero dumped him on the bed and
pinned him down.

"If you don't stop that you're going to hurt yourself. Stop, now!" But Duo was beyond hearing
Heero he was so caught up in his tantrum.

Heero did the only thing he could. He pulled a set of padded manacles from behind the
headboard. Using his body to pin Duo, Heero buckled the leather around his wrists. He pulled
Duo's arms above his head and made sure that the chain was secured. Then he shackled Duo's
ankles. By now Duo was panting and still. Worn out from his useless struggles. His strength
hadn't returned enough that he was up to a sustained fight. Heero pulled the chain tight enough
that Duo couldn't kick.

He cuddled up behind Duo spooning with him. Duo curled into a miserable half moon, curled as
tight as he could get with his wrists fastened to the headboard and his ankles to the foot. He
whimpered softly.

Heero rubbed Duo's arms and stomach, trying to comfort him as best he could.

"When I'm sure you're through acting like a temperamental . . . I hesitate to say child. But, love,
you can't do that. You'll only hurt yourself. Calm down. We'll figure it out. It'll be fine. In the
morning this will all seem stupid. Hush now."

Duo shuddered with silent sobs and finally fell asleep under Heero's gently caressing hands.
Heero fell asleep soon after, vowing to figure out how to give Duo back his voice. They were
both suffering with this enforced silence. Duo more so than Heero, but Heero was sad that Duo
was so upset. He didn't have any patience, he knew that. But Duo needed him to be patient, so
he would try.

~ * ~

Duo woke up only a short time later, he felt like a fool. He'd allowed his frustration to
overwhelm him. He needed to meditate to calm himself. He really wanted to go to his secret
place but that was impossible. He decided to try to meditate in the oriel window instead.

When he tried to slip from under Heero's arm, he realized that he was still bound to the bed. He
huffed softly then wriggled to get more comfortable. This woke Heero from his light doze.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep on you. I . . . Duo . . . what are you doing?"

Duo had snuggled his ass right against Heero's pelvis. Duo gave up, figuratively speaking. He
had finally decided that Heero really wasn't going to harm him. He might hurt him, a little, in
punishment, but he would do him no harm. So he was going to take his first real chance. He
ground his butt into Heero's groin a little harder.

Heero moaned softly, he'd wished for this since he'd known Duo would live. He wasn't about to
allow Duo to do this for the wrong reasons. If Duo wanted him, that was fine. If Duo was doing
this out of a sense of duty, it wasn't happening.

"Why. . . I know you can't answer with words but you can nod."

Duo settled against Heero, nodding his head.

"Do you really want me?" Duo nodded. "Not because you should?" Duo shook his head. Heero
relaxed. "If you're really sure, I'd like it."

Duo wriggled a bit and pressed up against Heero again. Heero replied by kissing the back of
Duo's neck.

"I want you just like this. I won't hurt you. I swear."

Duo groaned softly. He wanted loose, he wanted to touch Heero, but if Heero wanted him this
way it was all right. He wasn't uncomfortable.

Heero didn't make any excuses, this was the way he wanted Duo, Duo wasn't being hurt. Duo
shuddered as Heero nipped his way from just under his ear, down his neck and across his
shoulder. It felt good.

Duo pulled at his bonds but they were firm, somehow they didn't bother him all that much.
Heero stroked Duo's shoulder and licked right after his hand. Duo whimpered softly.

"Do you like that?" Duo nodded. Heero sighed softly, blowing the exhale into Duo's ear.
"Good."

Duo tried to roll over but Heero stopped him. "No. Just like this. I'll make you feel good." Heero
worried at his lip for a second. Then he pulled away from Duo. "Stay just like that. I'll be back in
a moment." Heero slid off the bed and went into the bathing chamber.

He returned with a small jar of creamy ointment, and a bell.

Duo took the bell Heero pressed into his hand with an inquiring look over his shoulder.

"If I hurt you, ring the bell. If you don't like it . . . you get the idea?"

Duo nodded against the pillow and sighed. This wasn't going to be bad. Heero cared enough
about him to make sure he could signal if it hurt. Or even if he just didn't like it.

Heero realized that Duo was only submitting to him because he, Heero, wanted this and he was
master. Heero vowed to make sure that Duo enjoyed their coupling. If he enjoyed it enough he'd
want more.

Heero wanted Duo to want more, more sex, more contact. More of everything Heero had to
offer. It wasn't that Duo was uncooperative, he submitted, he did his duty. But he held back, just
a little. A person less sensitive to Duo wouldn't have noticed it at all. Heero did notice. He knew
he wasn't the most sensitive person in the world, far from it. He was King and knew what his
prerogatives were. He was master of everything he surveyed, literally. And his temper wasn't the
best in the world. But, he wanted very much for Duo to like what they did together. So he did
what he could to reassure Duo that he didn't want to hurt him.

Duo waited for Heero to do something. He was surprised at what he did.

Heero got back behind Duo and scooted up to him. He carefully slid his arms around Duo. Duo
made a soft whimpering sound. He didn't sound scared or in pain so Heero continued to touch
him, carefully running his hands over Duo's chest and belly.

Duo wished for his voice for the hundred thousandth time. Heero was driving him crazy. In his
efforts not to hurt or scare him, Heero was teasing him to distraction. Duo tried to push back
against Heero, but Heero held him firmly.

"No, not yet. I won't hurt you. You'll get what we want soon. Hush now."

Heero dipped his finger into the jar and scooped out a dab of the cream. He touched Duo's anus
with the slicked finger and began to rub it in using a circular motion. Duo moaned softly.

Duo tried to turn in Heero's arms but Heero pinched one nipple and Duo forgot what he was
doing. He lay still and allowed Heero to do what he wanted.

Heero spent a great deal of time just touching and caressing Duo. Duo wriggled and whimpered,
wanting more but unable to tell Heero so. He cursed his former masters with plagues and boils.
He tried to turn again. But between Heero's arms and his bonds all he could do was squirm.

Duo whimpered again and gave in to Heero's silent demands. He curled up as much as he could
and allowed Heero access to his body. Heero continued to stroke Duo's chest with one hand and
his tight entrance with the other.

"I'm going to begin to prepare you now. Relax."

Duo tried to obey but all he could think was how much his other masters had hurt him. He tensed
slightly then forced himself to obey Heero. Heero nuzzled the sensitive spot just under Duo's
ear, Duo sighed softly. He liked this despite his fears. Heero took advantage of Duo's distraction
to pinch one nipple just a bit too hard. Duo realized too late that Heero had taken advantage of
Duo's divided attention to slip one well-lubricated finger into him. Duo surged forward in an
effort to avoid the intrusion, but he was held tightly by Heero's arms and his bonds. He fought
for a second then fell back. Heero wasn't hurting him, or trying to wrestle him into submission.
He was just waiting, that one finger following him easily.

"I said relax. I'm not hurting you, am I? If I do remember the bell. Don't struggle you'll make
me hurt you. Be still or I'll punish you. Hush now."

Duo shuddered as Heero began to move his finger in and out of his body. It felt strange, but it
didn't hurt. He relaxed again. Then Heero stroked his finger over something in Duo's body.
Something that made sparks flash behind his eyelids. Duo moaned and tried again to push back.
Heero allowed him to move closer. He slid his finger farther into Duo and whispered
encouragement in his ear. Duo stilled and waited to see what Heero would do next.

Heero lifted himself on one arm, bracing himself above Duo. He leaned in and kissed him gently
on the lips. Duo replied with gentle kisses of his own. They kissed for what seemed to Duo hours
then Heero shifted around so that he wasn't leaning on his arm. He pulled Duo into a more
comfortable position for both of them. He realized, as Duo tried to spread his knees, that the
bonds on his ankles were definitely an obstacle. He pulled himself away from Duo to unfasten
the chains from the cuffs then returned to his former position. Duo spread his knees and allowed
Heero to return to touching him. He pulled at the bonds on his wrists but Heero whispered, "No,
I'm not taking a chance on you bolting on me. Be still." Duo stilled himself and tried to relax as
Heero wanted. Maybe if he was good, it wouldn't hurt too much. At least Heero was taking his
time, trying to help him do his duty.

Heero smiled to himself as he felt Duo relax under him. He dipped his head and licked one of
Duo's nipples, making him whimper loudly. They were both relieved to realize that he didn't
choke.

Duo shifted around and realized that Heero still had one finger in him. It didn't hurt and when
Heero did whatever it was, he saw stars dancing in his head. Heero took advantage again. As he
slid another finger into, Duo he nipped the nipple he was sucking on. Duo yelped and arched his
back, he couldn't decide what felt better, having his nipple suckled or Heero's fingers so gently
stretching his anus. If this was what it was going to be like, Duo decided he was going to like it.

Heero felt for the small jar, reslicked his fingers and carefully anointed Duo again. He was going
to make sure that he was well prepared and slick. He wasn't going to hurt him. He wanted Duo
with an all-encompassing passion. That didn't mean he was just going to jam into him, that
wasn't what he wanted at all.

"Like that? No bell, so you must. I'm losing control. I'm not made of stone. I'll take you soon.
You must let me know if it hurts. Duo. Bright eyes. Hear me?"

Duo moaned and nodded. He dropped the bell onto the bed and did his best to kiss Heero
senseless. Heero responded in kind and their tongues dueled until they had to stop to breathe.
Heero picked up the bell and gave it back to Duo.

"No. You ring that. I don't mean to hurt you. But there's always the chance."

Duo tossed the bell across the room with a flick of his wrist. He gazed into Heero's eyes for a
moment then slowly closed his. Heero pressed a fierce kiss to Duo's parted lips and whispered,
"Ready?" Duo nodded.

Heero made sure to use plenty of the salve as he readied himself.

When he pressed into Duo, Duo shuddered once then groaned. It definitely wasn't a sound of
pain. It was a sound of desire, want, need. Duo was ready for Heero in every way. Heero stilled
himself instead of giving in to his desire to thrust into Duo. He waited until Duo relaxed around
him. Then he began to thrust slowly, gently. He forced himself to go slowly to allow Duo time to
loosen and to realize that he wasn't going to cause any pain.

Duo sighed and waited for Heero to do something, anything. Finally he pushed back and impaled
himself on Heero. He wriggled, trying to gain the friction he craved. Heero let out a whimper of
his own and began to thrust faster. Then faster again. Duo responded to this by doing his best to
respond to each thrust with a backward surge of his own. The resultant stabs at his prostate made
him see fireworks. Heero groaned and began thrusting harder still.

"I can't hold out any longer. You have to come with me. Duo, come now." Heero gave up
control and shuddered as his orgasm swept through him like a tidal wave. Duo didn't wait, he
came as well, his spasms milking Heero. They both collapsed onto the bed in a sweating, panting
heap.

They lay there for a few moments until Duo made a small sound of disgust. He was lying in the
wet spot. Heero withdrew from his body and added to the mess.

"I'm sorry." Heero didn't sound very sorry and Duo gave him a pointed look. "I'll let you go in a
second. As soon as you promise not to . . . do anything I'm not going to like."

Duo smirked wearily at Heero, who took that as a promise and released Duo's arms. He rubbed
them gently to help the circulation return. Duo sighed and crawled off the bed, making a face.
Heero laughed and reached down to take off the chain around Duo's ankle.

"Come on. We need a bath." Heero wrinkled his nose at Duo who stuck out his tongue. "Yes.
Well, I wouldn't want that nasty thing in my mouth either." Duo blinked for a second then
advanced on Heero in a menacing stalk.

"No you don't. You'll leak all over, come on. I'm going to carry you. And you're not going to
argue with me. Please?"

Duo huffed softly, crossing his arms over his chest; but when Heero picked him up, he didn't
protest.

They settled into the tub of lukewarm water all that they could manage, as Heero had forgotten
that Duo had to stoke the fire under the kettle to keep the water warm. Duo washed Heero's back
and kissed his neck. He kissed every part of Heero that Heero would let him. He tried to go
down on Heero, but Heero pulled him back up remarking. "I'm quick, but not that quick. And
I'm tired. Let's just wash and go to sleep. All right?"

Duo nodded, he was tired and he had a lot to think about. Heero had been so gentle with him. He
was pleasantly tired, not exhausted from the pain and being wrestled into submission. He could
learn to really like this.

When they got back to the bedroom, Duo realized that someone else had been in the room. The
bed was made up with fresh sheets and the jar of ointment and the bell were on the bed side
table. This worried him for some reason, but he was too tired to work it out. All he wanted now
was to sleep in his master's comforting arms.

~ * ~

Heero woke the next morning with a groan. Duo immediately put his hand on Heero's forehead.

"What? . . . oh, no. I don't have a fever, I'm not sick. Well, physically at least. I have audiences
again this morning. I told my crier that I wanted to be done with them today. That means I have
to start early and sit all day. But I'm tired of the petty wrangling. The high priest is a prissy ass.
He passed a lot of cases on to me that he could have handled himself. I think he handed me all
the one's that involve rich vs. poor."

Duo made a sympathetic noise and crawled out of the bed. He fetched Heero's chamber robe and
slippers. After helping him on with them, he put on a short robe. Heero had made sure that he
had robes and clothing suitable for a prince. He realized now that Heero meant it as a sign of his
affection. He appreciated the clothing and made sure Heero knew it by gently stroking the lapels
of his robe.

Heero settled at the small table he'd had brought to the room and waited for Duo to serve him his
breakfast. The tray was on the hearth keeping warm. Duo wondered for the first time where the
trays came from. He didn't wake up to the sound of a door opening. He wished he had a weapon.

Duo served Heero his breakfast and settled in the window seat to eat his own. Heero got up from
the table and took his plate out of his hand. Duo gave him a startled look. He knew he hadn't
done anything to merit punishment so he couldn't understand why Heero had taken his food.

"I'm tired of eating alone or with a bunch of obnoxious idiots. I know you can't carry on a
conversation but I can talk and you can make intelligent noises. Come to the table."

Duo snorted. He knew the kind of people Heero had been eating with the last few days. They
were one of the reasons he was in such a bad mood. Another reason was that the raids were
increasing. The raiders would defend on a town or village. Round up every person they could,
then for some reason they inspected every man and boy. When they left they took exactly half
the food stuffs with them. They also took every horse.

Duo settled at the table with Heero and nodded to him. Heero started talking. Telling Duo about
the cases that he had to adjudicate, Duo listened and made appropriate noises. Heero finally
wound down, grumbling about the waste of his time but remarking that once this was over he
wasn't going to have to worry about it ever again. He was appointing an over lord for the area as
soon as he could find someone suitable.

When they had finished eating, Duo collected the dishes and put them in the hall. He examined
the wall, // //then he checked around the fire place. He was going to figure out how the servant
got in without waking him. Heero called him to get ready. Duo gave Heero a puzzled look. Get
ready? He made an interrogative sound and Heero snorted.

"I'm not chaining you again. All that rattling is really getting on my nerves. So, you have to
come to court with me. I'm not leaving you alone until I'm sure you'll remember to leave me a
note so I know where you are. I don't intend to have a repeat of that. If nothing else, just leave it
on the desk. Do you understand me?"

Duo nodded vigorously. He came to Heero and knelt at his feet with his head bowed. Heero
gently pushed his flopping hair out of his eyes. Duo cuddled into his hand and sighed.

"I liked last night very much. I hope you didn't find it too awful. Did you like it, at lest a little?"

Duo nodded and stood. He kissed Heero gently on the mouth, but when Heero tried to hold him
he danced out of Heero's grasp. He shook his finger at Heero and pointed at the sun. Heero
nodded.

"I know, I have to get ready. Today, I'll need my arming shirt, mail, tabard, house robe and
purse. Soft boots, fur lined if I have them. That floor is cold as ice and sitting still for hours
makes it even worse. Bring your slate, a cushion, blanket and a book. You'll have to be extra
good or they'll complain . . . no . . . never mind that. You do what you want, within reason. I'm
tired of catering to that bunch of old women. And that's an insult to women. Come on."

Duo scampered to get Heero ready then he gathered up the things he wanted and got out an outfit
for Heero's approval. Heero glanced at the clothing and nodded, Duo had chosen well. The pants
were sturdy material, tight enough to look nice but not so tight that he couldn't move freely. The
tunic was longer than hip length, just touching the tops of his thighs. He had also chosen a
quilted velvet vest and short suede boots. Heero noticed that all the clothing was black, most
suitable for a servant.

~ * ~

Duo sighed and shifted on his cushion. The man had droned on for more than an hour. Heero
was getting restless and angry. Duo wondered if the man was stupid or just oblivious. He didn't
understand how the man could hope to get a favorable judgment if his kept lying. Heero had
caught him twice.

Heero patted Duo on the shoulder. He had known that Duo would be bored, but he wanted to
make sure that Duo understood that he had to know where he was. Duo wrote on his slate and
tapped it to get Heero's attention.

"Man lies. You should punish him for it. He stupid."

Heero nodded and shifted in his chair.

"My servant has just pointed out that you took an oath to tell the truth, yet you've lied twice that
I've caught you. Guards, take him out to the courtyard and give him ten lashes. Perhaps that will
convince him to watch his tongue. While that is being done, I'll hear the defense."

Heero pinned the other man with a frigid glare. The man wet his lips and started his story in a
quavering voice. Heero glared harder. Duo discreetly pinched him on the calf. Heero smoothed
his expression to one of bland interest.

Duo worried at the ball and wished for his voice. He wished he could go to his secret place and
just relax. He wished he knew who he was. He decided that he had to stop wishing or he'd wear
his wisher out. Heero wished he could cut the tongue out of half the suppliants and execute the
rest.

Finally the man ran down and Heero made his decision. "You're both at fault. Divide the land in
twain. Each of you take half. I'll send one of my stewards to do the surveying for you. Get out."

In the next few hours Heero ordered three floggings, imposed half a dozen fines and turned a
merchant out of the country. Duo wrote short comments on his slate which sometimes made
Heero smile. Duo was very perceptive and seemed to know what would punish someone the
worst.

Duo tapped his chalk on the slate to attract Heero's attention. 'Hungry. Stop now. Eat'

Heero shook his head. "If we stop now, we'll never get started again."

Duo pouted slightly. But he knew Heero was right; if they stopped, the petitioners would wander
out, or into the halls or just go home. It would slow things down considerably. He knew some
lords would eat during court, leaving the petitioners to stand and watch. He also knew that Heero
would never do something like that.

'Feed all. Soup, bread.' Duo knew that the kitchens, which were capable of feeding five hundred
people or more, could feed the sixty or so people gathered for judgment.

Heero nodded, "Yes. That will work. I'll have the master at arms make arrangements."

The arrangements were soon made and soup and bread rolls distributed to all in the room, except
Heero and Duo. They had meat pies and fruit, wine, water and cheese. No one complained.

The final case was heard long after dark, Duo was excused, Heero was too. Both of them felt
cross and abused.

Duo helped Heero out of his armor and clothing, dumped the clothing in the laundry basket and
put the armor on the stand. He would have to clean it tomorrow.

After sharing a companionable bath they both tumbled into bed to sleep the night away.

~ * ~

Duo woke Heero the next morning and after he'd rubbed the sleep out of his eyes handed him a
note.

"Today I do this.

Clean mail. Do writing. Visit horse. Clean apartments. ?"

Heero sighed, "Very well. Keep out of trouble. I'll send the Guard Master to you. There's rules
that you don't know about. He'll tell them to you. You have free run of the castle now. Wufei
said you could do anything you feel you're up to." Duo gave Heero a sharp look. Heero pointed
to the desk. "I found his note last night. It was on the floor under the desk. I stepped on it." Duo
blinked for a moment then went to the desk, pulled out the chair, and groveled around under the
desk looking for more dropped papers.

He found a pen, a ruler, a few blank sheets of paper and a small book. He brought his finds to
Heero who examined them then told Duo that he should put them on the desk.

"Don't put anything on the desk anymore. We need to find out what is making things fall off. Put
everything in the top drawer or weigh it down. Now, I'm supposed to have breakfast with my
advisers. You can eat in the kitchen. I know you've missed Cook. Go on. I'll dress myself today.
The Guard Master is probably waiting on you. Scoot."

Duo threw on an old pair of snuff-colored trews and a rough spun tunic. He slipped his feet into
a pair of sandals with long laces and cross gartered the trews with them. After adding a wide
leather belt with a purse, he was ready to go. He checked on Heero but he was already gone.

When Duo got to the kitchens, Cook was delighted to see him. She scolded him sternly for
scaring them all 'half into our graves, you naughty thing'. Then she made him his favorite
breakfast.

The Guard Master arrived while he was eating. When Duo started to rise the man motioned for
him to continue eating. He settled himself across the table from Duo and accepted an offer of tea
from Cook with a nod.

"Now, I understand that you are mute?" Duo nodded. "Well, that poses a problem. I don't read."

Duo sighed. This was a problem, he could listen and remember, but if he had a question he was
in trouble.

Cook caught his look of despair. "Don't look at me. I can't read or write more than my name.
That's why I insist that all my young 'uns go to granny school. But you act out such a treat, I'm
sure you'll manage. If you can't get it across, I'll try to interpret for you."

So the Guard Master explained that he wasn't allowed to climb the vines on the eastern wall of
the keep. He wasn't allowed in the older parts of the keep as the floors were rotten. As a slave he
had to be in his Master's quarters at dusk or have a pass. He wasn't allowed into the village
without a pass either. Duo listened carefully and nodded from time to time. He understood all the
rules and managed to convey this to the guard master.

"That's good. Now, I think you're a good boy and a very smart one. I don't expect to have to
take a rod to you. I'll be very displeased if I do. You understand me?"

Duo nodded. He didn't want what some called a 'hiding'.

The Guard Master left telling Duo that he should attend the training sessions Heero was
supervising. "Put some meat on your bones. Good for you, no matter you're a slave. His Majesty
would be pleased, I think." He bowed slightly to Cook, thanked her for the tea and left to return
to his duties.

~ * ~

Duo also left the kitchen. He headed for the stables and spent an hour petting the black horse and
coaxing him to eat from his hand. The horse needed to be exercised but the stables were in an
uproar due to foaling and no one had the time. Duo silently offered to do the job by pointing to
the saddles and raising an eye brow. The Stable Master gave him a skeptical look but allowed
that it would be all right.

"You just ride him around easy. He's still not up to snuff. Needs the exercise but don't push him
too hard. No trotting or galloping. You understand me, boy?"

Duo nodded and smiled at the man. He pulled the saddle from the rack and saddled the black up
with a little help from one of the older men. The saddle was heavy and the horse was tall. Duo
finished the cinching up after the man threw the saddle onto the blanket for him. He smiled his
thanks and happily accepted the offered leg up.

Duo walked the big horse around the paddock for a while then he brought him back inside. He
got some help unsaddling him then he brushed the black out, watered and fed him. He gave the
horse a treat, petting him while he munched it down. Duo put the black back in his stall, whistled
to the Stable Master who waved absently. Duo wished idly that he could see the foals but he
knew that no one needed another body in the way. When they were less busy, he'd get to see
them all cleaned up.

After leaving the stables, Duo went into the garden and wandered around for a while. He knew
he still had work to do but he was so glad to be unchained that he wasted most of the morning
just being. He settled to meditate, trying to find a calm center so he could figure his master out.

Duo realized that he was floundering badly. Heero wasn't like any master he'd ever had. He had
a bad temper and lost it with explosive frequency. But he didn't lose it over just anything.
Disobedience, arguing after what he thought was reasonable explanation, and general stubborn
stupidity seemed to set him off at once. And he was under considerable pressure to put an end to
the raids with a complement of dung toes and plow boys whose training was stretching Heero's
nerves to the breaking point. Duo wondered if Heero was naturally impatient or had this
situation tried his patience to the breaking point and kept it there. Then he decided that it didn't
make much difference. He had to deal with what he had; not wish or wonder for what might
have been or could be in the future.

After completing his meditations, Duo realized that he had a song he was supposed to sing. He
didn't know why but it bubbled up in his throat, demanding to be let out. He sang, little realizing
that people could hear him all over the garden.

~ * ~

Heero forced himself to listen to his advisors then ripped them to shreds. He wanted to know
where the raiders were coming from; he wanted to know what they were looking for. Reports
said that they swept down on a village or town, rounded up all the young men, stared them in the
face for seconds then left, taking half the food stuffs with then. They also took all the riding
horses and half the other live stock. They didn't break a town, but they left it badly bent.

But that was all the reports could tell them. No one knew where they came from, or what they
wanted. They didn't kill anyone except in rare instances. There were wounded of course. So
Heero was on a rip, his temper uncertain and volatile. His advisors spent the time with him
making excuses and cringing. He ordered them to find his information for him or suffer the
consequences. Then he went in search of Duo.

Heero found Duo sitting on a bench in the herb garden chewing on a bit of mint. He smiled to
see him lounging on the stone bench in the sun. This was a great improvement from the Duo of
just two months ago. Heero settled beside Duo with a grunt.

"Good day. You look happy."

Duo smiled and nodded. He realized that he was doing a lot of that lately, but it didn't matter. He
patted the Merils board on the bench and poked Heero in the arm. Heero replied with a gentle
push.

"We don't have any men. We have to have men, you know."

Duo produced nine white stones and nine black stones from a small pocket under the bench.
Heero couldn't help but laugh at Duo's triumphant expression.

"Very well then. But no pouting when I win."

Duo just shook his head at Heero and, producing a bit of chalk from his purse, wrote on the
bench. "I win, I get prize?"

Heero gave him a smug look. "If you do win, which I doubt, I'll . . . I'll give you my second best
dagger, and permission to carry it. After I'm sure you know how to use it, that is."

Duo eyed that offer from all sides and decided that it was fair. He was fairly certain that he
already knew how to use it but lessons from Heero would be pleasant. He hoped.

Heero took one stone of each color and shook them between the palms of his cupped hands, then
he made a fist of each hand and offered Duo the choice. Duo came up white. He cooed his
satisfaction and placed his first stone.

They played quickly, each man placing his markers with a decisive clack. Duo won. He cramped
Heero so that, while he still had five markers, he couldn't move any of them.

Heero clapped his hands down on his knees and stood up. Duo cringed slightly, he still had a
tendency to duck if he though Heero was displeased.

"Don't do that. I'm very pleased with this. You don't have to worry about winning as long as
you don't cheat. I don't like cheats. . ." Heero tugged Duo to his feet and put his arm around
Duo's shoulders. "Come on. I'll see if I can't find a belt that will fit you. That one is too big it's .
. . unsightly. In fact, you look like a beggar. Why?"

Duo made scrubbing motions then made a face. Picking at the front of his tunic he sighed.

Heero scrunched up his nose in a way that Duo found sexy. "What. . . um . . .no, I've got to
learn to figure out this stuff. . . you're polishing . . oh, you have to polish that mail. Yuck.
You're going to get sand and oil all over . . . of course, you don't want to ruin something good
with all that mess. I'm sorry. I had a squire but he seemed to be terrified of everything so I sent
him home. He's with someone else now and apparently doing quite well. So . . . you'll take the
place of page and squire. I hope you regain your strength soon. I'm . . . not exactly tired of this,
but. . . I'd like to see you look like this all the time, not just when you've had an especially good
day. You're much better, but I'll bet good money you're exhausted tonight. I'd forbid you doing
this but Wufei says you won't get better if you don't push yourself. Just don't push too hard and
set yourself back."

Duo blinked at Heero for a second and then smiled happily. Heero was a much better master than
any he'd ever had before. He might punish him, but Duo knew that Heero wouldn't do him any
harm. He felt so happy that he started to weep silently.

Heero pulled him into a warm hug and kissed the top of his head. "Don't. I didn't mean to make
you cry. You're still so weak, I'm just concerned that you'll over do." Duo tried to push away to
explain to Heero that he wasn't sad. "No, it's fine. I hope you feel better soon. You won't be so .
. . weepy. Hush now. We'll go to our rooms and you can write down your explanation. Come."

Duo just let Heero lead him to their rooms sniffling softly as he tried to get control of himself.
This was getting better and better every day. He knew he and Heero would still have
misunderstandings and problems. Most of them because he couldn't tell Heero what was wrong.
He wished for his voice back. He vowed to find a cure himself.

~ * ~

When they reached the apartments Heero went to the desk and pulled out some paper.
"Tell me why you were upset. While you're writing, I'll find that dagger and a sheath, and a belt
that fits you properly." Heero went to rummage in the armoire. Duo knew he would be
disappointed, but decided to let him find out for himself.

Duo had searched every inch of the rooms to make sure he knew what was where. He knew that
there wasn't a belt that fit him better than that one. Except for his good one, which was black
leather and highly polished. Not to be worn for cleaning link mail.

Heero grumbled softly to himself. "Silly thing. That belt will fall down around his knees and trip
him. Where. . . this is ridiculous . . . you'd think I could do something as simple as find a belt for
a slave." He continued to grumble as he tossed the contents of the chests, boxes and armoire in a
search for what he wanted.

He heard Duo snickering at him and turned with a menacing look on his face. "Oh, think it's
funny do you? Well, I'll fix you. You are in real trouble now."

After a slightly frightened look, Duo realized that Heero was teasing him. He replied to Heero's
threat by sticking out his tongue, a thing that usually made Heero laugh. This time was no
different, but Heero also caught Duo around the waist and wrestled him to the floor. Duo fought
back, using every trick he remembered and some he didn't know he knew. They wrestled until
Heero finally managed to pin Duo. Duo laughed up at him then eeled out of his grasp and
jumped him. He knew Heero had to be ticklish, he just had to figure out where.

Heero let him try, but the truth was, Heero wasn't ticklish if he didn't want to be. He had enough
control to negate the feeling. He snickered at Duo's frustrated look and demanded his
explanation.

Duo handed Heero the pages he'd written while Heero indulged in his fruitless search. After
reading Heero just took Duo in his arms and hugged him.

"I'm so sorry. I know I'm a beast at times, it amazes me that you can be forgiving when I'm such
an ass. I know I'll make mistakes. I know I'm too impatient. But . . . I think . . . well, never
mind. I'm just glad you're happy . . . now . . ." Heero handed Duo the dagger and sheath. "Here's
the dagger. Put it in this chest." Duo looked at the chest with wide eyes. He patted himself on the
chest then pointed. "Yes, it's for you. You can keep all your things in it. We'll be traveling soon
enough. It'll help you keep track of your stuff. Now, I have more meetings. Lunch with several
priests." Heero laughed at Duo's expression.

Duo made a face then wrote on his slate. "Food cold. Bad. Too pray much. Each has word."

Heero nodded. "Yes, each one of them will have to have his say. They'll pray for at least half a
candle mark. But I'm smart, I told Cook to serve cheese, fruit, cold meats and bread. Wine, beer
and milk are the only drinks. So no ruined hot dishes or lukewarm tea. But I better get going or
I'll insult all the old croakers by being late."

Duo made sure that Heero was brushed and neat before he left. Their wrestling had left Heero
with some dust on his trousers. Duo sighed again, he needed to sweep the floor again, he didn't
know where all the dirt came from. Heero never went outside in his slippers and his boots were
carefully wiped before he came up the stairs. He shrugged rather sourly and went to fetch the
broom and dust pan.

After sweeping the entire set of rooms Duo set himself to cleaning the mail shirt. A job which
he, like all squires, detested with a passion. And everyone had a different idea of how the job
should be done, Heero hadn't told Duo how he wanted it done so Duo just used the easiest way.
He got out a bottle of polishing sand and some rags and started.

It took him two hours of rubbing and cleaning. But he took the shirt into the oriel window and
settled himself to work in the sun. He loved the sun. Any time he could sit in the sun in peace he
was happy. And when he was happy, he wanted to sing. He realized that that was one of the
things he'd missed the most, the ability to sing. He sang every song he knew and remembered
more as he sang.

When the shirt was clean, he wrapped it in a storage cloth to keep it from rusting. Then he went
to wash his hands and clean as much of the oily mess off his clothing as possible. He still had to
clean out the hearth and set the fire in both the bathing chamber and bed chamber so he wasn't
too worried about cleaning up completely. He also still had his writing to do. He'd have to go to
see Wufei and get his lesson. He wanted to get all his work done quickly enough that he had time
to workout. He was feeling so much better he knew that if he could work out regularly enough
he'd regain his strength. The wrestling match with Heero had been a bit of a disappointment in
one way. He thought he'd been recovering quite well, but Heero had pinned him so easily that he
wondered if he was mistaken.

Duo was pleasantly surprised to find a note saying that Wufei was going to come to him today.
The knock on the door was his first warning that Wufei was there.

He opened the door and invited Wufei in with a sweeping gesture of his arm.

Wufei looked around at the sparkling clean room. "You haven't been over doing it, have you?"

Duo shook his head and picked up his slate. 'Do little a day. Easy. Heero make me stay room.
Clean to keep . . . ." Duo grumbled. He couldn't come up with a word to explain what he meant.

Wufei took the slate and read what he'd written. He smiled and produced a large book from the
satchel he was carrying. "Here. I think you'll like this. It's a dictionary. Your vocabulary is large
enough that you can understand the explanations. Just start at the front of the book. It will help
you increase your vocabulary and if you hear a word you don't know, you can look it up."

Duo clutched the book to his chest to demonstrate his gratitude. Then Wufei made Duo's day
brighter.

"Also, you can do as much as you feel up to. I'd recommend taking it a little easy just at first.
But if you feel you can exercise, go ahead. Just remember, you're going to be sore. A hot bath
will help and here are some bath salts that will help with any soreness as well. So. . . you are
officially released from my care. If you have any head aches or whatever, come see me. I don't
mean that you can't visit either. You're welcome anytime. I'll make tea." Wufei laughed at
Duo's doubtful look. "Some of my teas are quite tasty, believe it or not. A little honey and some
mint. Very nice."

Duo grinned at Wufei and wrote on his slate. 'Tea and cake. Apple pie. I'll see if Cook will give
me cake. Yes?'

"Yes, some of her ginger cake with the nuts in it. If you look pitiful enough, she'llshe’ll crumble like dry cake. Flash those pretty eyes at her. Silly onna."

Duo stuck out his tongue at Wufei and waggled it. Wufei blinked, startled. Duo immediately looked contrite and started to write something. Wufei stopped him gently.

I"m not mad. But, I want a closer look at that . . . what . . . stick out your tongue again."

Duo obeyed and Wufei examined the ball on his tongue. "This is barbaric. I remember seeing it before but I never paid that much attention to it. It’s thrust right through the meat. How did they do this?"

Duo wiped his slate with a damp cloth, then thought better of it. The slate wasn’t big enough to tell his story. He got out some paper and started writing. Wufei waited patiently until he was done, idly fishing through his satchel while he waited.

Wufei read the story and snarled. "They just pierced you with an awl? And . . . it’s a wonder you didn’t die. That’s not sanitary at all. And I’ll bet your tongue swelled up terribly. How did you eat?"

Duo just shrugged, ‘I didn’t. They don’t care if I die or not. Just keep mouthy slave silent. I get nothing. So I hungry. Ball make it hard to eat for long time. They punish by no eat. For many day. Please. Not tell Heero. Master be angry.’

Wufei shook his head. "I’ll have to tell him. He won’t be angry with you. He’ll have a fit though. He doesn’t believe in starving someone for a punishment. He’ll take away your desert, or maybe make you miss one meal. But he’s a good man. Short tempered and stern but once your punishment is over that’s the end of it. Remember, if he has you beaten, you’ll have deserved it. He doesn’t have someone punished just because he’s in an ill temper. He might make a mistake but if he does he’ll admit it and make amends best he can. That’s why he’s so tense about holding court he doesn’t what to make any mistakes." Wufei looked out the window at the sun. "I better get going I have to check the men who were flogged yesterday. They won’t be sent home until they’re healed." Wufei took his leave and left Duo to his own devices. With more to think about.

Duo went to his secret room and spent the rest of the afternoon working out. He was feeling so much better that he over did it just a little, but the slight stiffness was satisfying. Duo sang his evening song a little earlier than he thought he should but he wanted to avoid trying to explain to Heero why he could sing but not talk. He didn’t think his nerves or his vocabulary was up to it.

When Heero came back in early evening, Duo hugged him then helped a rather surprised Heero out of his clothing and into a bath. He slipped in behind Heero and started to rub his shoulders. Heero moaned softly in relief.

"That feels so good. I’m all in knots. I’ll be glad to go back to training shitfoots. That bunch of administrative . . ." Heero ground his teeth. He was going to have words with his Regent when he got back to the capital. He didn’t have time to fight a war and do all the administrative duties too.

Heero rumbled contentedly as Duo massaged his back and neck. Then Duo showed Heero the small can to let him know that he was getting ready to wash his hair. Heero leaned his head back on Duo’s shoulder and let him wet his messy locks. Duo added shampoo to the wet hair and massaged Heero’s scalp. He wished that someone would do the same for him, but his scalp was still very sensitive so he doubted that Heero would accommodate him. He finished washing Heero’s hair and rinsed it out. Heero stood up and let Duo wash him all over. Commenting that it felt so good to be clean and relaxed.

Duo started to climb out of the tub but Heero stopped him. "I’ll wash your hair for you. And don’t make that face. I’ll be careful. I know you’re still sore. I am too. When I find your former master, he’ll regret ever seeing you. Come. Be still while I do this."

Duo stood for Heero to wash him and sighed, it did feel good. And he was a little sore from his exertions. When Heero dumped the first can of water over his head he yelped, it was a surprise. Heero hadn’t warned him.

"Sorry. I’m sorry. I should have said something, shouldn’t I?"

Duo nodded then settled himself in the tub, pushing Heero until he was behind him. Heero obediently set himself to washing Duo’s hair.

"It’s beginning to get really long. Do you want to cut it, or let it grow?"

Duo ran his fingers through the still ragged mass and then signed that he wanted to let it grow.

"Very well. But you’re going to have to trim it up. It still looks terrible. If you’ll let me, I’ll just even up the ends and cut you some fringe. That’ll get the front hair out of your eyes. And . . ." Heero pulled the now rinsed back into a short tail. "It’s long enough in back to make a tie . . . your hair grows really fast. And it is . . . pretty, handsome. What do you say about a man’s hair?’

Duo shrugged and poked Heero in the belly with his elbow. Heero retaliated by pulling Duo into a fervent kiss. Duo responded in kind but wriggled out of Heero’s arms to hand him towels and dry them both off.


"Tired? I am. But I could . . ."

Duo shook his finger at Heero and tried his best to tell him that he was sore. Heero blinked at Duo for a moment. Then the candle lit. "Dammit. You should have said something . . . but how . . . shit, I’m sure Wufei didn’t give you words for this. If you’re sore, we won’t do anything. You don’t mind if I kiss you, do you?"

Duo hung his head, he felt bad about this but if they did anything, he was going to really hurt in the morning. He’d managed not to make too big a deal about the slight soreness, still he didn’t want to aggravate it into something bigger. Heero didn’t either.

They scrambled into the bed and Heero pulled Duo into his arms. Duo settled down with his head on Heero’s shoulder with a contented sigh. Heero kissed the top of Duo’s sandalwood scented head and settled to sleep. Duo fell asleep at almost the same time.

~ * ~

Authors note: Merils is also known as Nine man (men’s) Morris. It has been around for a very long time. Boards have been found in tombs and crypts dating back to the 1600’s. They have also been found gouged into the garden benches and floors in monistaries and convents, and prisons. I played it with my grandmother from the time I was old enough to understand the rules. You can find more information by clicking on the link.   Or this one