The Land of Broken Dreams ch 2
Jun. 6th, 2006 12:57 am![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
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vigorliTitle: The Land of Broken Dreams
Disclaimer: We do not know any of the actors or anything about their lifestyles or sexuality.It's purely fiction. No profit is made.
Authors: Missy - missmissy1288 & Imogen imogen_lily
Rating: NC-17
Pairings: Viggo/Orlando(main); Brad/Orlando. Others appear later.
Summary: What would you do for love?
Warnings: attempted and actual rape; domestic abuse; mpreg; referances to miscarriage
Note: I'm not the main author of this story. I came up with the intial idea and various scenes and I have wrote some parts of this, but the vast majority of this is written by Missy as she's the main author so please send her the feedback. This is a sort of VigOrli version of "Troy" which will involve a large cast.
Feedback: Please send it, every author likes to receive some.
Two years later in Dione…
Sean, Viggo, and Karl stood in front of their father, each a little worried about how serious he looked. They all immediately knew something was wrong when he had called his three sons to his private rooms to speak with them. They usually met with their father in the main conference room, so when he requested their presence in his private rooms, they immediately knew it was a warning sign.
Cate was absent from the meeting as usual. Hugo had always invited her to get involved in the affairs of Dione, but she preferred to leave the politics to her husband. She would have rather been in her room painting, where she spent most of her time. Despite Cate’s interest in the ruling of her kingdom and her love of the citizens, politics for the most part she found unutterably dull and to her experience consisted of old men pouring over ancient texts invoking long lost laws and debating over pieces of legislation that no one could possibly remember. While she was happy to offer her opinions and advice to Hugo she had little time for squabbling old men.
“I’m sure you’re all wondering why I called you here,” Hugo said, facing away from his sons, a weary expression on his face.
Sean exchanged a look with his brothers and noticed they were just as confused and worried as he was, “Father, what happened?”
“We’ve received a confirmed warning of an invasion threat from Boeotia. There have been rumors that the emperor will try to invade soon and it will not happen if I can help it. He’s received word that the three of you will arrive for talks and a possible treaty. You must prevent this invasion; do whatever you need to pacify Boeotia and Brad. We cannot risk invasion,” Hugo explained, gazing steadily at his sons each in turn.
Hugo had faith in each of his sons and that they would be able to smooth things over in Boeotia. He knew Sean in particular had wonderful diplomatic skills. Since he had been picked many times to speak with other leaders in practice for when he became king, Sean had gotten quite good at peace talks.
Viggo groaned internally at the mention of Boeotia. The only thought that came to mind at that moment was the ‘Bloom of Boeotia’, Orlando. Karl had yet to stop teasing him about the fact that he would never be able to seduce Orlando and it had long grated on Viggo‘s last nerve. He had no idea why Karl did not let it go, anyone would think Orlando had magical powers for how Karl bleated on about him, perhaps Karl was secretly in love with the Bloom of Boeotia he sulked.
The rumors of past years came flooding back to him and he once again found himself wondering if the supposed beauty the man possessed even existed. According to his parents and Sean, Orlando certainly existed, but he found himself doubting that Orlando was the most beautiful person alive. It simply was not possible that one person’s beauty could outshine everyone else’s.
He vaguely remembered the myths of long ago that he had been told as a child, that had surrounded a long dead Spartan woman, Helen or was it Helena, a woman so beautiful it was said to be a gift - or a curse from the gods, a beauty that drove men mad and married off to a wizened old man for all her days. A truly tragic beauty. Viggo had always thought the story rather sad all that beauty simply wasted, the woman known for nothing else than her remarkable beauty had faded into the background of history, all but forgotten expect by avid historians, and that was undoubtedly what Orlando would end up as. The thought made him oddly melancholy
He had first thought Orlando was just another pretty face, but had no real value to Boeotia or Brad. Of course, now, he had other thoughts. For all Sean and Karl’s teasing, his curiosity has been piqued and he began questioning people about Orlando, and to some degree Brad. He had found out from his parents that Orlando had been well-loved in his home country of Palthia and that love continued in Boeotia after he married Brad. The people loved him and Viggo couldn’t help but wonder what was so special about him, wasn’t this supposed great beauty he possessed enough. It made Orlando sound more than human - divinely beautiful and universally loved. That simply was not possible for anyone.
He didn’t think the trip would go all that well, especially if he met Orlando and Karl was along to tease him every step of the way, but he wasn’t about to say anything against his father. If he had his choice, he wouldn’t have to go at all, but Hugo insisted all three go as their duty as princes to their country.
“What do we do if he refuses?” Karl asked warily.
Hugo sighed and turned to look at his youngest son, “We’d just better hope he doesn’t refuse. If Brad decides to invade, we won‘t have a big enough army to defend ourselves. There are few countries that could defend themselves against Boeotia. We are certainly not one of them. I’m trusting you – each of you, placing the safety of this kingdom and our people in your hands, please do not fail me.”
Hugo paused, looking at each of them to make sure they each understood how important this mission was.
“When do we leave?” Viggo asked, sounding a bit bored. He knew this was important, but he couldn’t keep his attention on once place. In a way, he was like Keira. He didn’t care anything for diplomatic meetings and anything of that sort, but at least he tried to get involved, unlike his sisters. While Miranda herself took a keen interest in politics and legal matters, her interest lay from a theoretical perspective only. She loved debating and was too forward and frank in her opinions towards diplomats rather than the silver tougue that was needed in negotiations.
Even after Sean and Karl had discussed his behavior at Sean’s wedding, Viggo had continued on his wild ways, practically having a different lover every night, much to the disappointment of his brothers and parents, especially Karl who had finally found a partner of his own, a young man named Jake.
The two had met through Cate, who was friends with Jake’s mother, who unknown to either Jake or Karl, had been instrumental in their first meeting, something which she and Cate took great private enjoyment in. Jake lived with his mother in the middle of town, where Cate had friends and often visited.
After learning he was interested in seeing the palace, Cate brought Jake back with her, where he met Karl. The two hit it on immediately, much to the joy of Karl’s family. He had never really shown a true interest in anyone before and Hugo was especially happy for the couple. They had only been seeing each other for a few short months and were far from marriage, but they were definitely on the path there.
“Right away. The sooner you get there, the sooner we can get things solved. Take only necessary items and be on the ship in two hours,” Hugo explained, looking at each one of his sons in turn. When none of the three said a word, he nodded and turned on his heel, heading for the door.
As soon as his father had left the room, Sean looked over at his two brothers, a grim expression on his face, “You heard him. Looks like we’re going on a trip.”
Karl left quickly, eager to see Jake one last time before he left and before he had to make it to the ship.
Viggo was directly behind him, looking very unhappy as he exited his father’s rooms. He glanced at Sean, who was looking right back at him, before he stalked out of the room, heading off to his own.
Sean shook his head and left the room, nearly jumping out of his skin when he spotted his father standing just to the side of the door, “Father, you scared me. I had thought you already left.”
“I needed to speak with you privately away from your brothers,” Hugo said, looking towards the stairs to make sure Sean’s siblings had gone, “I’m worried about Viggo on this visit.”
“How so?” Sean asked.
“You’re more than aware of Viggo’s…long line of conquests. I need you to make sure he doesn’t do anything to jeopardize the peace treaty with Boeotia,” Hugo explained.
Sean nodded, “I will, Father. I know how important this is to our kingdom.”
“If I know Viggo well enough, you should probably keep him away from Orlando. Orlando is exactly the type Viggo would go after and if Brad ever felt his husband’s honour had been….compromised in any way he would exactly swift and brutal revenge. I know men like Brad. He is proud and does not forgive or forget, to make an enemy of him would be of the greatest folly make sure Viggo understands what is at stake here,” Hugo said.
“I’ll make sure he doesn’t do anything foolish to ruin the peace with Boeotia,” Sean said.
Hugo paused for a moment before he nodded, knowing he could trust his oldest son. He nodded and watched as Sean left down the stairs. Shaking his head, he just hoped Sean could control his younger brother’s wild ways.
*** ~~~ ***
It had been past two hours, but all three brothers and their crew had finally made their way onto the ship and started the long journey to Boeotia.
Sean had been reluctant to leave his husband, David, but with their new son, Richard, the new prince of Palthia, just being born only a few months prior, David thought he should stay behind with his son and a close bond had already developed between the three, Sean adoring David and Richard but also recognizing the importance of this mission. He wanted to spend time with his husband, to watch Richard grow up, to dote on him and any other children they may have in the future, but if war broke out none of that would be a possibility. He was sad and worried to see Sean leaving, but he knew how diplomatic missions worked and knew it was for the best.
Keira and Miranda had joined the brothers during their last hour in Dione to tell them good-bye and wish them luck on their journey. They had been worried for their brothers, but also glad it wasn’t them who had to go.
It wasn’t until Sean had known Karl went below deck to get some sleep that he finally tracked down Viggo. With the way Karl and Viggo had been arguing and teasing each other lately, he thought it was a good idea if he confronted Viggo along.
He’d made sure to order all of the crew to leave the brothers alone until they asked for something. He knew how annoying it was to be constantly bothered by overly helpful servants. They were always being interrupted and asked if they needed anything and Sean knew to put a stop to it before it started.
Viggo had been too involved in watching over the ocean to hear Sean coming, so when Sean leaned against the wooden railing, he jumped slightly, pulling himself out of his thoughts.
“I hope I didn’t disturb you too badly,” Sean commented with a wry grin.
Viggo shrugged, sneaking a look at his brother before turning his attentions back to the sparkling water below him, “My mind was…. elsewhere.”
Sean smiled slightly, knowing Viggo had had his mind elsewhere for the past couple of hours, mostly brought on by the news of traveling to Boeotia. He wasn’t too happy about going to Boeotia and leaving his husband and new son, but if it meant keeping peace with another country, he would live through it.
“It’s expected when you go on a long trip. A ship isn’t exactly the entertainment capital of the world,” Sean said.
Viggo looked over at Sean, an eyebrow raised.
“You didn’t come over here to talk about entertainment on a ship. Just say what’s on your mind,” Viggo snapped, getting tired of people constantly beating around the bush.
Sean sighed, turning seriously immediately, “I’m worried about you meeting Orlando.”
“Orlando? Why are you worried about me meeting him?” Viggo asked, confused.
“I’m more worried about you trying to seduce him.”
Viggo shook his head, disbelieving, “You what?”
“I don’t know, Viggo. I know you would never intentionally do anything to jeopardize our negotiations with Boeotia, but you’ve done plenty of things wrong without realizing it. Just take Livia and Diane, for example. You almost caused a war for the simple fact that you tried to bed both of them. Getting caught by Eric wasn’t too smart, you’re appalling stupid at times” Sean said pointedly, sounding angry.
He was tired of constantly having to watch over Viggo every time they went to another country. He usually did it automatically, but he was going to take extra precautions this time because of his father’s request. He loved his brother dearly, but sometimes Viggo’s actions even got the best of Sean.
He had no doubts Viggo would try to go after Orlando, but he didn’t think Viggo would have it so easy this time. Brad seemed very protective of his husband when Sean had met him and he didn’t think Orlando would cheat on his husband so easily.
Livia and Diane had quickly fallen for Viggo’s well practiced charms, and each had been all too willing to fall into bed with his brother, but Sean didn’t think Orlando would. In fact, he was hoping that would happen and it would finally teach Viggo his lesson. Despite what he had promised his father, he knew no power on earth could stop Viggo when he wanted something. Sean had a horrible feeling that upon seeing the beauty Viggo would not rest until he could boast sampling the ‘charms’ of the Bloom of Boeotia, but if Orlando refused him, it just might be enough to wear down that over-inflated ego his brother carried. Perhaps Orlando could knock some sense into him.
“I wouldn’t do anything to mess the negotiations! I know how important this is to Father and our country,” Viggo said indignantly, even though he was thinking of doing the exact opposite.
Sean sighed. He hadn’t meant to upset brother or accuse him of anything, but it needed to be said. He was too worried Viggo would do something to further encourage Boeotia to go to war. They were already on thin ice to keep Boeotia from invading their country.
“You’d better not. The worst thing you could do is try to go after Orlando. From what I know of Brad, he wouldn’t hesitate to kill you for touching his husband,” Sean said pointedly.
It was well-known that Brad and Orlando looked like the perfect couple. Brad was very loving to Orlando during meeting and public appearances and Orlando looked to be just as dedicated to his husband. When in public, the two rarely moved too far from one another and Brad always had Orlando at his side.
“Sean, I’ve told you before and I’ll tell you now, I won’t do anything to mess anything up. I know I’ve done some stupid things before, but there’s too much at stake,” Viggo said, a hurt expression on his face.
He actually did care about preventing war, but he was also very interested in Orlando. He was well aware of how Brad would probably kill him for touching Orlando, but he didn’t think Brad had any advantage over him. He could fight pretty well if needed and simply pushed aside what Brad would do to him.
“I’m just reminding you that there is a certain way to act when visiting another country,” Sean said.
He especially remembered when they visited Averia three years ago. Sean had gone to visit David in the early stages of their relationship and he brought Viggo and Karl with him. While Karl had been interested in seeing the sights of the country, Viggo had vigorously pursued Heath as a possible next lover.
Heath was not happy with Viggo, being in a happy and committed relationship himself, and it resulted in Viggo leaving for home a few days earlier than expected. When Sean and Karl returned, Sean had stonily told him that he was no longer welcome in Averia for how he acted toward Heath. Viggo hadn’t seemed bothered and simply snorted flippantly replying that Heath should’ve been grateful he didn’t seduce his fiancé. Sean had never wanted to straggle his brother as much as he did then.
“In case you forgot, I am also a prince and even though I won’t become king someday, I still know how to act,” Viggo said quietly, his eyes narrowed, feeling offended. “Why don’t you just say what you’ve been thinking all along? You think that I never had what it takes to be a prince. You think that I should have already settled down, you’ve lectured me on how to act in other countries, and then you treat me like a little child!”
“Viggo, that is not true. You know I think you are a good prince and a good man – when you are not breaking hearts, but you let your desires ahead of your reasoning. I only treat you like a child because you act like one. I‘ll warn you to stay away from Orlando or you will regret it. Don‘t make me have to castrate you so you really can‘t have anymore lovers.” Sean threatened.
“You always think I’m going to do something to ruin our missions,” Viggo hissed.
“That’s because you usually do. You’re a prince and you should act like one. You act more like a common whore the way you feel you have to have a different person every night, is it really that important to you to have a different warm body in your bed each night? You’re an embarrassment not just to Dione but to yourself. Do you have any idea how many husbands, brothers and wives hate you for damaging their marriages, do you even care?” Sean yelled, feeling better once he said his true opinions to his brother. He loved Viggo, he truly did but Viggo was simply a selfish creature no amount of brotherly love would change that.
Viggo gaped at him, his eyes wide. He couldn’t believe what his brother was saying. He was an adult and could control his desires and actions, but Sean apparently didn’t agree with him.
“I think you have said more than enough,” Viggo growled, angry with his brother once more.
Sean barely had time to register what Viggo before his younger brother had stomped off to the other side of the bus, brushing off an attentive servant.
The remaining time aboard the ship did not go any smoother. Sean spent the time talking with a servant, Hayden, who had long served their family at the palace. He was quite intelligent for his age and Sean enjoyed talking to him when he had time, which usually wasn’t all that often.
He like that Hayden didn’t mind him talking about David and how much he missed him and his son. He could tell the younger man his problems with Viggo and knew Hayden would never reveal anything to anyone else. What Sean told him was in confidence and never left the two of them.
Things hadn’t gotten any better between Sean and Viggo, which Sean had expected. Viggo was too proud to admit he was wrong and Sean knew he was right. He had regretted be too harsh with Viggo, but he didn’t regret telling him what he thought was the truth.
The only thing that made him feel better was the letters he had gotten from David. During their stop at a port to restock on needed supplies, Sean had gotten two letters from David along with a small painting from Cate, which featured Richard slumbering in his basinet asleep. Sean had found himself smiling all day from rereading the letters and staring at the painting.
Sean had told Karl of his problems with Viggo, but kept the explanation at the very minimum, not wanting to worry his youngest brother. He didn’t want Karl too worked up over his brothers fighting and have to worry about his seasickness.
The short times Karl was above deck, he noticed his two brothers at opposite ends of the ship and acting like the other didn’t exist. He made a short note to try to mend things between them when he could actually keep food down and made his dizziness stop.
Karl had spent most of the time sleeping below deck, the travel being too much for him. He easily got seasick and tried to spend as much time as possible asleep to avoid the nausea and it usually worked. He briefly made his way above deck to get some water and then went below once more, anywhere he didn’t have to see the waves below the side of the ship that made him dizzy.
Viggo made sure to keep far away from Sean; he was too mad about what his older brother had told him to be near him. He kept busy by charming the younger soldiers and flirting with the few sailors aboard. He wasn’t sure if he actually felt like sleeping with a new conquest or was simply doing it to annoy Sean.
He looked up briefly in the middle of talking with a young soldier and saw land, the country of Boeotia. He dismissed the soldier with a wave of his hand and headed below deck, heading into Karl’s private room.
Each brother had their own room because the ship was so large. Their father had made sure to give them the largest and most luxurious ship for their journey to Boeotia. Viggo was glad of his father’s thinking so he didn’t have to share a room with Sean. It also gave Karl a quiet room to be able to sleep in without anyone bothering him.
Viggo stepped into Karl’s room and saw Karl laying on his side on a corner cot, fast asleep. He made his way over and shook his younger brother lightly.
Karl’s eyes opened slowly before they focused on Viggo, “Something wrong, Viggo?”
“No. We’ve arrived in Boeotia. We should be docking any minute,” Viggo explained.
Karl nodded and sat up slowly, groaning as his stomach started churning and his headache returned, “Next time Father decides to send us on a peace mission, I hope he picks a country you can reach by horseback.”
Viggo laughed, helping Karl to his feet and held him there when his younger brother swayed, “Just think, you’d be ten times worse if you hadn’t slept the whole time.”
Karl groaned as they made their way up on deck just as the ship made its way into the large port.
Various people had gathered to see the ship and see who had decided to come to their country, although several large men, presumably guards, kept them back from getting too close.
Viggo hoped the guards were simply there to guard Brad and whoever he had brought with him. Of the crew on the ship from Dione, there was one guard to watch over them. They wanted to make sure it looked like they were coming there for peace and not to start an all-out war.
Viggo surveyed the area and found himself awed. The port led into a large marketplace with, as far as Viggo could see, hundreds of separate vendors trying to coax possible customers over to their stand.
The surrounding area was very decorative, mostly done in gold with splashes of color. It was obviously a city that was made to be pleasing to the eye for incoming travelers. The port let visitors into the largest and most crowded part to really get a feel for the country. It was fairly empty though, which Viggo thought was due to the current high winds.
Viggo, Karl, and Sean stepped off the ship and their eyes immediately feel on a man in front of them. He was tall and muscular with shoulder-length blonde wavy hair and bright blue eyes. His clothes were covered by a dark cloak, although his hood was down.
He was a handsome man, but Viggo wasn’t attracted to him at all. He much preferred younger, pretty-looking men and women, and Brad wasn’t even close to 'pretty' and he looked to be a few years older than Viggo, although not many.
From what Viggo had heard of Brad, the leader of Boeotia was an older man who married a much younger man, Orlando. He wasn’t expecting Brad to younger than he thought and a lot better looking. He had imagined a middle age man, all looks long faded and sporting a large beer gut. Brad could not be further from the image his mind had presented him with, something which Viggo wasn’t entirely happy with.
The brothers thought Brad looked like he could be a nice person as he was smiling as he spotted the three brothers. He stepped forward, smiling slightly as he looked over the three brothers.
“Hello and welcome to Boeotia. I am the Emperor, Brad,” the man said, gesturing behind him at three people, a woman and two men, “Let me introduce you to my sister, Angelina, my advisor and cousin, Colin, and my husband, Orlando of Boeotia.”
He looked self-satisfied as he wrapped an arm around Orlando’s waist, pulling his husband tight against his side, planting a small kiss on the temple, as Orlando seemed to perfectly mould into his husband’s side, almost merging them into one.
Viggo’s attention suddenly wavered on Brad as he glanced beside the handsome blonde to Orlando, although he didn’t see much of him, much to his disappointment. He was hoping to see more of the famous Orlando than him in an oversized cloak and a hood that covered most of his face. What wasn’t covered was hidden by shadows.
Viggo noticed he never raised his head or moved very far from Brad. The young man stayed very close to Brad‘s side, moving wherever Brad did. He shifted slightly to stand behind Brad and Viggo was sure he was trying to hide himself. In fact, he didn’t really seem to acknowledge that the visitors were even there which puzzled Viggo slightly.
He didn’t really seemed like the man Viggo had heard about, the way people loved him and adored him. Orlando seemed very skittish, in Viggo’s opinion, and seemed to rely on Brad to do the talking. Obviously he was as brainless as Viggo had assumed, either that or this Orlando must be extremely dull to have no conversation at all.
“We’re happy to have been allowed to visit your country, Brad. From what very little of it we have seen, it is truly beautiful,” Sean said, stepping forward offering a courtly bow.
Brad smiled, inclining his head in thanks, “Thank you very much. I’ll see to it that you will be able to see more of it during your stay here. Who do I have the pleasure of greeting?”
“I am Sean, prince regent of Dione, and these are my brothers, the princes Viggo and Karl,” Sean said, introducing himself and his brothers. He pointed to each one separately and Brad nodded a greeting to each of them, smiling slightly.
Sean caught Viggo’s glance and briefly shifted his eyes to Orlando in a silent warning, to which Viggo rolled his eyes and nodded slightly before moving his attention to Angelina.
He instantly admired her tall, regal beauty and noticed she looked nothing like Brad, which didn‘t really surprise him. He had a feeling Angelina was a one of kind person. Unlike Orlando she did not attempt to hide herself, gazing straight at Viggo, a teasing smile slowly curling at the end of her pouting lips.
From what he could see under her hood, she had long dark curls, secured at the top of her head and that cascaded around her shoulders. As she finally moved her gaze to his, he saw her eyes almost matched Brad’s exactly.
Probably their only similarity, Viggo thought, looking over Brad once more. He didn’t think their personalities were all that similar either.
He immediately slipped into ‘seducer mode’ and put on a teasing smirk, to which she returned just as perfectly, proving to Viggo she could hold her own and dish it right back out. He grinned and glanced over at Karl, who was alternating between watching Brad and Sean talk and carrying on his own conversation with Colin.
Colin seemed like an amusing and easy-going man, Viggo noted, as the man traded jokes with Karl. Judging by his accent, Viggo didn’t think Colin was originally from Boeotia, something he would aim to find out later. He thought Colin was the one he would most likely get along with in the palace.
Brad and Sean seemed to be getting along well, but Sean had always had that charm to make anyone his friend. Brad was smiling and agreeing to whatever Sean had just said.
Viggo noticed once more how Orlando seemed to be absent from the whole exchange. He was physically there, but otherwise he seemed to be missing. He still hadn’t spoke one word to anyone. Very strange. Surely even if the prince was boring or dull-witted he had to have opinions on something. Perhaps Orlando simply had no interest in public affairs, if he was as beloved and beautiful as people stated than why should he care how he acted.
“If you’ll allow us to escort you back to the palace, we can get you settled in and you can get ready for your welcoming dinner,” Brad said, gesturing behind him to a few horses being watched by a few guards, “I trust you can all ride?”
“Of course,” Sean answered simply as they made their way over to the horses. He looked over to Viggo and saw him talking with Angelina and her looking more than a little amused at Viggo’s advances. Well, he had told him to stay away from Orlando, but he hadn’t said anything about Angelina.
Brad jumped onto his horse gracefully and reached down to help Orlando up in front of him. He waited until everyone was seated on a horse, grinning when he saw Viggo pull his sister up to sit in front of him. The two seemed to be taking an interest in each other and it had been awhile since Angelina had found someone besides Brad to verbally spar with. Viggo seemed to be her equal as they continued to flirt and tease each other.
As soon as they took off, Viggo maneuvered his horse so he could sneak a glance at Orlando, but it didn’t work as Brad’s body shielded most of him from Viggo’s prying eyes, to his surprise, Orlando seemed perfectly content to rest his head on his husband’s shoulder for the majority of the ride, something which clearly pleased Brad, while one arm was firmly wrapped around Orlando for the duration of the ride.
In fact, what little Viggo had seen of Orlando, they were sure to get a surprise at the dinner when they could actually see what he looked like when he took the hood off. He couldn’t wait to see if the rumors of his beauty were true.
TBC
Disclaimer: We do not know any of the actors or anything about their lifestyles or sexuality.It's purely fiction. No profit is made.
Authors: Missy - missmissy1288 & Imogen imogen_lily
Rating: NC-17
Pairings: Viggo/Orlando(main); Brad/Orlando. Others appear later.
Summary: What would you do for love?
Warnings: attempted and actual rape; domestic abuse; mpreg; referances to miscarriage
Note: I'm not the main author of this story. I came up with the intial idea and various scenes and I have wrote some parts of this, but the vast majority of this is written by Missy as she's the main author so please send her the feedback. This is a sort of VigOrli version of "Troy" which will involve a large cast.
Feedback: Please send it, every author likes to receive some.
Two years later in Dione…
Sean, Viggo, and Karl stood in front of their father, each a little worried about how serious he looked. They all immediately knew something was wrong when he had called his three sons to his private rooms to speak with them. They usually met with their father in the main conference room, so when he requested their presence in his private rooms, they immediately knew it was a warning sign.
Cate was absent from the meeting as usual. Hugo had always invited her to get involved in the affairs of Dione, but she preferred to leave the politics to her husband. She would have rather been in her room painting, where she spent most of her time. Despite Cate’s interest in the ruling of her kingdom and her love of the citizens, politics for the most part she found unutterably dull and to her experience consisted of old men pouring over ancient texts invoking long lost laws and debating over pieces of legislation that no one could possibly remember. While she was happy to offer her opinions and advice to Hugo she had little time for squabbling old men.
“I’m sure you’re all wondering why I called you here,” Hugo said, facing away from his sons, a weary expression on his face.
Sean exchanged a look with his brothers and noticed they were just as confused and worried as he was, “Father, what happened?”
“We’ve received a confirmed warning of an invasion threat from Boeotia. There have been rumors that the emperor will try to invade soon and it will not happen if I can help it. He’s received word that the three of you will arrive for talks and a possible treaty. You must prevent this invasion; do whatever you need to pacify Boeotia and Brad. We cannot risk invasion,” Hugo explained, gazing steadily at his sons each in turn.
Hugo had faith in each of his sons and that they would be able to smooth things over in Boeotia. He knew Sean in particular had wonderful diplomatic skills. Since he had been picked many times to speak with other leaders in practice for when he became king, Sean had gotten quite good at peace talks.
Viggo groaned internally at the mention of Boeotia. The only thought that came to mind at that moment was the ‘Bloom of Boeotia’, Orlando. Karl had yet to stop teasing him about the fact that he would never be able to seduce Orlando and it had long grated on Viggo‘s last nerve. He had no idea why Karl did not let it go, anyone would think Orlando had magical powers for how Karl bleated on about him, perhaps Karl was secretly in love with the Bloom of Boeotia he sulked.
The rumors of past years came flooding back to him and he once again found himself wondering if the supposed beauty the man possessed even existed. According to his parents and Sean, Orlando certainly existed, but he found himself doubting that Orlando was the most beautiful person alive. It simply was not possible that one person’s beauty could outshine everyone else’s.
He vaguely remembered the myths of long ago that he had been told as a child, that had surrounded a long dead Spartan woman, Helen or was it Helena, a woman so beautiful it was said to be a gift - or a curse from the gods, a beauty that drove men mad and married off to a wizened old man for all her days. A truly tragic beauty. Viggo had always thought the story rather sad all that beauty simply wasted, the woman known for nothing else than her remarkable beauty had faded into the background of history, all but forgotten expect by avid historians, and that was undoubtedly what Orlando would end up as. The thought made him oddly melancholy
He had first thought Orlando was just another pretty face, but had no real value to Boeotia or Brad. Of course, now, he had other thoughts. For all Sean and Karl’s teasing, his curiosity has been piqued and he began questioning people about Orlando, and to some degree Brad. He had found out from his parents that Orlando had been well-loved in his home country of Palthia and that love continued in Boeotia after he married Brad. The people loved him and Viggo couldn’t help but wonder what was so special about him, wasn’t this supposed great beauty he possessed enough. It made Orlando sound more than human - divinely beautiful and universally loved. That simply was not possible for anyone.
He didn’t think the trip would go all that well, especially if he met Orlando and Karl was along to tease him every step of the way, but he wasn’t about to say anything against his father. If he had his choice, he wouldn’t have to go at all, but Hugo insisted all three go as their duty as princes to their country.
“What do we do if he refuses?” Karl asked warily.
Hugo sighed and turned to look at his youngest son, “We’d just better hope he doesn’t refuse. If Brad decides to invade, we won‘t have a big enough army to defend ourselves. There are few countries that could defend themselves against Boeotia. We are certainly not one of them. I’m trusting you – each of you, placing the safety of this kingdom and our people in your hands, please do not fail me.”
Hugo paused, looking at each of them to make sure they each understood how important this mission was.
“When do we leave?” Viggo asked, sounding a bit bored. He knew this was important, but he couldn’t keep his attention on once place. In a way, he was like Keira. He didn’t care anything for diplomatic meetings and anything of that sort, but at least he tried to get involved, unlike his sisters. While Miranda herself took a keen interest in politics and legal matters, her interest lay from a theoretical perspective only. She loved debating and was too forward and frank in her opinions towards diplomats rather than the silver tougue that was needed in negotiations.
Even after Sean and Karl had discussed his behavior at Sean’s wedding, Viggo had continued on his wild ways, practically having a different lover every night, much to the disappointment of his brothers and parents, especially Karl who had finally found a partner of his own, a young man named Jake.
The two had met through Cate, who was friends with Jake’s mother, who unknown to either Jake or Karl, had been instrumental in their first meeting, something which she and Cate took great private enjoyment in. Jake lived with his mother in the middle of town, where Cate had friends and often visited.
After learning he was interested in seeing the palace, Cate brought Jake back with her, where he met Karl. The two hit it on immediately, much to the joy of Karl’s family. He had never really shown a true interest in anyone before and Hugo was especially happy for the couple. They had only been seeing each other for a few short months and were far from marriage, but they were definitely on the path there.
“Right away. The sooner you get there, the sooner we can get things solved. Take only necessary items and be on the ship in two hours,” Hugo explained, looking at each one of his sons in turn. When none of the three said a word, he nodded and turned on his heel, heading for the door.
As soon as his father had left the room, Sean looked over at his two brothers, a grim expression on his face, “You heard him. Looks like we’re going on a trip.”
Karl left quickly, eager to see Jake one last time before he left and before he had to make it to the ship.
Viggo was directly behind him, looking very unhappy as he exited his father’s rooms. He glanced at Sean, who was looking right back at him, before he stalked out of the room, heading off to his own.
Sean shook his head and left the room, nearly jumping out of his skin when he spotted his father standing just to the side of the door, “Father, you scared me. I had thought you already left.”
“I needed to speak with you privately away from your brothers,” Hugo said, looking towards the stairs to make sure Sean’s siblings had gone, “I’m worried about Viggo on this visit.”
“How so?” Sean asked.
“You’re more than aware of Viggo’s…long line of conquests. I need you to make sure he doesn’t do anything to jeopardize the peace treaty with Boeotia,” Hugo explained.
Sean nodded, “I will, Father. I know how important this is to our kingdom.”
“If I know Viggo well enough, you should probably keep him away from Orlando. Orlando is exactly the type Viggo would go after and if Brad ever felt his husband’s honour had been….compromised in any way he would exactly swift and brutal revenge. I know men like Brad. He is proud and does not forgive or forget, to make an enemy of him would be of the greatest folly make sure Viggo understands what is at stake here,” Hugo said.
“I’ll make sure he doesn’t do anything foolish to ruin the peace with Boeotia,” Sean said.
Hugo paused for a moment before he nodded, knowing he could trust his oldest son. He nodded and watched as Sean left down the stairs. Shaking his head, he just hoped Sean could control his younger brother’s wild ways.
*** ~~~ ***
It had been past two hours, but all three brothers and their crew had finally made their way onto the ship and started the long journey to Boeotia.
Sean had been reluctant to leave his husband, David, but with their new son, Richard, the new prince of Palthia, just being born only a few months prior, David thought he should stay behind with his son and a close bond had already developed between the three, Sean adoring David and Richard but also recognizing the importance of this mission. He wanted to spend time with his husband, to watch Richard grow up, to dote on him and any other children they may have in the future, but if war broke out none of that would be a possibility. He was sad and worried to see Sean leaving, but he knew how diplomatic missions worked and knew it was for the best.
Keira and Miranda had joined the brothers during their last hour in Dione to tell them good-bye and wish them luck on their journey. They had been worried for their brothers, but also glad it wasn’t them who had to go.
It wasn’t until Sean had known Karl went below deck to get some sleep that he finally tracked down Viggo. With the way Karl and Viggo had been arguing and teasing each other lately, he thought it was a good idea if he confronted Viggo along.
He’d made sure to order all of the crew to leave the brothers alone until they asked for something. He knew how annoying it was to be constantly bothered by overly helpful servants. They were always being interrupted and asked if they needed anything and Sean knew to put a stop to it before it started.
Viggo had been too involved in watching over the ocean to hear Sean coming, so when Sean leaned against the wooden railing, he jumped slightly, pulling himself out of his thoughts.
“I hope I didn’t disturb you too badly,” Sean commented with a wry grin.
Viggo shrugged, sneaking a look at his brother before turning his attentions back to the sparkling water below him, “My mind was…. elsewhere.”
Sean smiled slightly, knowing Viggo had had his mind elsewhere for the past couple of hours, mostly brought on by the news of traveling to Boeotia. He wasn’t too happy about going to Boeotia and leaving his husband and new son, but if it meant keeping peace with another country, he would live through it.
“It’s expected when you go on a long trip. A ship isn’t exactly the entertainment capital of the world,” Sean said.
Viggo looked over at Sean, an eyebrow raised.
“You didn’t come over here to talk about entertainment on a ship. Just say what’s on your mind,” Viggo snapped, getting tired of people constantly beating around the bush.
Sean sighed, turning seriously immediately, “I’m worried about you meeting Orlando.”
“Orlando? Why are you worried about me meeting him?” Viggo asked, confused.
“I’m more worried about you trying to seduce him.”
Viggo shook his head, disbelieving, “You what?”
“I don’t know, Viggo. I know you would never intentionally do anything to jeopardize our negotiations with Boeotia, but you’ve done plenty of things wrong without realizing it. Just take Livia and Diane, for example. You almost caused a war for the simple fact that you tried to bed both of them. Getting caught by Eric wasn’t too smart, you’re appalling stupid at times” Sean said pointedly, sounding angry.
He was tired of constantly having to watch over Viggo every time they went to another country. He usually did it automatically, but he was going to take extra precautions this time because of his father’s request. He loved his brother dearly, but sometimes Viggo’s actions even got the best of Sean.
He had no doubts Viggo would try to go after Orlando, but he didn’t think Viggo would have it so easy this time. Brad seemed very protective of his husband when Sean had met him and he didn’t think Orlando would cheat on his husband so easily.
Livia and Diane had quickly fallen for Viggo’s well practiced charms, and each had been all too willing to fall into bed with his brother, but Sean didn’t think Orlando would. In fact, he was hoping that would happen and it would finally teach Viggo his lesson. Despite what he had promised his father, he knew no power on earth could stop Viggo when he wanted something. Sean had a horrible feeling that upon seeing the beauty Viggo would not rest until he could boast sampling the ‘charms’ of the Bloom of Boeotia, but if Orlando refused him, it just might be enough to wear down that over-inflated ego his brother carried. Perhaps Orlando could knock some sense into him.
“I wouldn’t do anything to mess the negotiations! I know how important this is to Father and our country,” Viggo said indignantly, even though he was thinking of doing the exact opposite.
Sean sighed. He hadn’t meant to upset brother or accuse him of anything, but it needed to be said. He was too worried Viggo would do something to further encourage Boeotia to go to war. They were already on thin ice to keep Boeotia from invading their country.
“You’d better not. The worst thing you could do is try to go after Orlando. From what I know of Brad, he wouldn’t hesitate to kill you for touching his husband,” Sean said pointedly.
It was well-known that Brad and Orlando looked like the perfect couple. Brad was very loving to Orlando during meeting and public appearances and Orlando looked to be just as dedicated to his husband. When in public, the two rarely moved too far from one another and Brad always had Orlando at his side.
“Sean, I’ve told you before and I’ll tell you now, I won’t do anything to mess anything up. I know I’ve done some stupid things before, but there’s too much at stake,” Viggo said, a hurt expression on his face.
He actually did care about preventing war, but he was also very interested in Orlando. He was well aware of how Brad would probably kill him for touching Orlando, but he didn’t think Brad had any advantage over him. He could fight pretty well if needed and simply pushed aside what Brad would do to him.
“I’m just reminding you that there is a certain way to act when visiting another country,” Sean said.
He especially remembered when they visited Averia three years ago. Sean had gone to visit David in the early stages of their relationship and he brought Viggo and Karl with him. While Karl had been interested in seeing the sights of the country, Viggo had vigorously pursued Heath as a possible next lover.
Heath was not happy with Viggo, being in a happy and committed relationship himself, and it resulted in Viggo leaving for home a few days earlier than expected. When Sean and Karl returned, Sean had stonily told him that he was no longer welcome in Averia for how he acted toward Heath. Viggo hadn’t seemed bothered and simply snorted flippantly replying that Heath should’ve been grateful he didn’t seduce his fiancé. Sean had never wanted to straggle his brother as much as he did then.
“In case you forgot, I am also a prince and even though I won’t become king someday, I still know how to act,” Viggo said quietly, his eyes narrowed, feeling offended. “Why don’t you just say what you’ve been thinking all along? You think that I never had what it takes to be a prince. You think that I should have already settled down, you’ve lectured me on how to act in other countries, and then you treat me like a little child!”
“Viggo, that is not true. You know I think you are a good prince and a good man – when you are not breaking hearts, but you let your desires ahead of your reasoning. I only treat you like a child because you act like one. I‘ll warn you to stay away from Orlando or you will regret it. Don‘t make me have to castrate you so you really can‘t have anymore lovers.” Sean threatened.
“You always think I’m going to do something to ruin our missions,” Viggo hissed.
“That’s because you usually do. You’re a prince and you should act like one. You act more like a common whore the way you feel you have to have a different person every night, is it really that important to you to have a different warm body in your bed each night? You’re an embarrassment not just to Dione but to yourself. Do you have any idea how many husbands, brothers and wives hate you for damaging their marriages, do you even care?” Sean yelled, feeling better once he said his true opinions to his brother. He loved Viggo, he truly did but Viggo was simply a selfish creature no amount of brotherly love would change that.
Viggo gaped at him, his eyes wide. He couldn’t believe what his brother was saying. He was an adult and could control his desires and actions, but Sean apparently didn’t agree with him.
“I think you have said more than enough,” Viggo growled, angry with his brother once more.
Sean barely had time to register what Viggo before his younger brother had stomped off to the other side of the bus, brushing off an attentive servant.
The remaining time aboard the ship did not go any smoother. Sean spent the time talking with a servant, Hayden, who had long served their family at the palace. He was quite intelligent for his age and Sean enjoyed talking to him when he had time, which usually wasn’t all that often.
He like that Hayden didn’t mind him talking about David and how much he missed him and his son. He could tell the younger man his problems with Viggo and knew Hayden would never reveal anything to anyone else. What Sean told him was in confidence and never left the two of them.
Things hadn’t gotten any better between Sean and Viggo, which Sean had expected. Viggo was too proud to admit he was wrong and Sean knew he was right. He had regretted be too harsh with Viggo, but he didn’t regret telling him what he thought was the truth.
The only thing that made him feel better was the letters he had gotten from David. During their stop at a port to restock on needed supplies, Sean had gotten two letters from David along with a small painting from Cate, which featured Richard slumbering in his basinet asleep. Sean had found himself smiling all day from rereading the letters and staring at the painting.
Sean had told Karl of his problems with Viggo, but kept the explanation at the very minimum, not wanting to worry his youngest brother. He didn’t want Karl too worked up over his brothers fighting and have to worry about his seasickness.
The short times Karl was above deck, he noticed his two brothers at opposite ends of the ship and acting like the other didn’t exist. He made a short note to try to mend things between them when he could actually keep food down and made his dizziness stop.
Karl had spent most of the time sleeping below deck, the travel being too much for him. He easily got seasick and tried to spend as much time as possible asleep to avoid the nausea and it usually worked. He briefly made his way above deck to get some water and then went below once more, anywhere he didn’t have to see the waves below the side of the ship that made him dizzy.
Viggo made sure to keep far away from Sean; he was too mad about what his older brother had told him to be near him. He kept busy by charming the younger soldiers and flirting with the few sailors aboard. He wasn’t sure if he actually felt like sleeping with a new conquest or was simply doing it to annoy Sean.
He looked up briefly in the middle of talking with a young soldier and saw land, the country of Boeotia. He dismissed the soldier with a wave of his hand and headed below deck, heading into Karl’s private room.
Each brother had their own room because the ship was so large. Their father had made sure to give them the largest and most luxurious ship for their journey to Boeotia. Viggo was glad of his father’s thinking so he didn’t have to share a room with Sean. It also gave Karl a quiet room to be able to sleep in without anyone bothering him.
Viggo stepped into Karl’s room and saw Karl laying on his side on a corner cot, fast asleep. He made his way over and shook his younger brother lightly.
Karl’s eyes opened slowly before they focused on Viggo, “Something wrong, Viggo?”
“No. We’ve arrived in Boeotia. We should be docking any minute,” Viggo explained.
Karl nodded and sat up slowly, groaning as his stomach started churning and his headache returned, “Next time Father decides to send us on a peace mission, I hope he picks a country you can reach by horseback.”
Viggo laughed, helping Karl to his feet and held him there when his younger brother swayed, “Just think, you’d be ten times worse if you hadn’t slept the whole time.”
Karl groaned as they made their way up on deck just as the ship made its way into the large port.
Various people had gathered to see the ship and see who had decided to come to their country, although several large men, presumably guards, kept them back from getting too close.
Viggo hoped the guards were simply there to guard Brad and whoever he had brought with him. Of the crew on the ship from Dione, there was one guard to watch over them. They wanted to make sure it looked like they were coming there for peace and not to start an all-out war.
Viggo surveyed the area and found himself awed. The port led into a large marketplace with, as far as Viggo could see, hundreds of separate vendors trying to coax possible customers over to their stand.
The surrounding area was very decorative, mostly done in gold with splashes of color. It was obviously a city that was made to be pleasing to the eye for incoming travelers. The port let visitors into the largest and most crowded part to really get a feel for the country. It was fairly empty though, which Viggo thought was due to the current high winds.
Viggo, Karl, and Sean stepped off the ship and their eyes immediately feel on a man in front of them. He was tall and muscular with shoulder-length blonde wavy hair and bright blue eyes. His clothes were covered by a dark cloak, although his hood was down.
He was a handsome man, but Viggo wasn’t attracted to him at all. He much preferred younger, pretty-looking men and women, and Brad wasn’t even close to 'pretty' and he looked to be a few years older than Viggo, although not many.
From what Viggo had heard of Brad, the leader of Boeotia was an older man who married a much younger man, Orlando. He wasn’t expecting Brad to younger than he thought and a lot better looking. He had imagined a middle age man, all looks long faded and sporting a large beer gut. Brad could not be further from the image his mind had presented him with, something which Viggo wasn’t entirely happy with.
The brothers thought Brad looked like he could be a nice person as he was smiling as he spotted the three brothers. He stepped forward, smiling slightly as he looked over the three brothers.
“Hello and welcome to Boeotia. I am the Emperor, Brad,” the man said, gesturing behind him at three people, a woman and two men, “Let me introduce you to my sister, Angelina, my advisor and cousin, Colin, and my husband, Orlando of Boeotia.”
He looked self-satisfied as he wrapped an arm around Orlando’s waist, pulling his husband tight against his side, planting a small kiss on the temple, as Orlando seemed to perfectly mould into his husband’s side, almost merging them into one.
Viggo’s attention suddenly wavered on Brad as he glanced beside the handsome blonde to Orlando, although he didn’t see much of him, much to his disappointment. He was hoping to see more of the famous Orlando than him in an oversized cloak and a hood that covered most of his face. What wasn’t covered was hidden by shadows.
Viggo noticed he never raised his head or moved very far from Brad. The young man stayed very close to Brad‘s side, moving wherever Brad did. He shifted slightly to stand behind Brad and Viggo was sure he was trying to hide himself. In fact, he didn’t really seem to acknowledge that the visitors were even there which puzzled Viggo slightly.
He didn’t really seemed like the man Viggo had heard about, the way people loved him and adored him. Orlando seemed very skittish, in Viggo’s opinion, and seemed to rely on Brad to do the talking. Obviously he was as brainless as Viggo had assumed, either that or this Orlando must be extremely dull to have no conversation at all.
“We’re happy to have been allowed to visit your country, Brad. From what very little of it we have seen, it is truly beautiful,” Sean said, stepping forward offering a courtly bow.
Brad smiled, inclining his head in thanks, “Thank you very much. I’ll see to it that you will be able to see more of it during your stay here. Who do I have the pleasure of greeting?”
“I am Sean, prince regent of Dione, and these are my brothers, the princes Viggo and Karl,” Sean said, introducing himself and his brothers. He pointed to each one separately and Brad nodded a greeting to each of them, smiling slightly.
Sean caught Viggo’s glance and briefly shifted his eyes to Orlando in a silent warning, to which Viggo rolled his eyes and nodded slightly before moving his attention to Angelina.
He instantly admired her tall, regal beauty and noticed she looked nothing like Brad, which didn‘t really surprise him. He had a feeling Angelina was a one of kind person. Unlike Orlando she did not attempt to hide herself, gazing straight at Viggo, a teasing smile slowly curling at the end of her pouting lips.
From what he could see under her hood, she had long dark curls, secured at the top of her head and that cascaded around her shoulders. As she finally moved her gaze to his, he saw her eyes almost matched Brad’s exactly.
Probably their only similarity, Viggo thought, looking over Brad once more. He didn’t think their personalities were all that similar either.
He immediately slipped into ‘seducer mode’ and put on a teasing smirk, to which she returned just as perfectly, proving to Viggo she could hold her own and dish it right back out. He grinned and glanced over at Karl, who was alternating between watching Brad and Sean talk and carrying on his own conversation with Colin.
Colin seemed like an amusing and easy-going man, Viggo noted, as the man traded jokes with Karl. Judging by his accent, Viggo didn’t think Colin was originally from Boeotia, something he would aim to find out later. He thought Colin was the one he would most likely get along with in the palace.
Brad and Sean seemed to be getting along well, but Sean had always had that charm to make anyone his friend. Brad was smiling and agreeing to whatever Sean had just said.
Viggo noticed once more how Orlando seemed to be absent from the whole exchange. He was physically there, but otherwise he seemed to be missing. He still hadn’t spoke one word to anyone. Very strange. Surely even if the prince was boring or dull-witted he had to have opinions on something. Perhaps Orlando simply had no interest in public affairs, if he was as beloved and beautiful as people stated than why should he care how he acted.
“If you’ll allow us to escort you back to the palace, we can get you settled in and you can get ready for your welcoming dinner,” Brad said, gesturing behind him to a few horses being watched by a few guards, “I trust you can all ride?”
“Of course,” Sean answered simply as they made their way over to the horses. He looked over to Viggo and saw him talking with Angelina and her looking more than a little amused at Viggo’s advances. Well, he had told him to stay away from Orlando, but he hadn’t said anything about Angelina.
Brad jumped onto his horse gracefully and reached down to help Orlando up in front of him. He waited until everyone was seated on a horse, grinning when he saw Viggo pull his sister up to sit in front of him. The two seemed to be taking an interest in each other and it had been awhile since Angelina had found someone besides Brad to verbally spar with. Viggo seemed to be her equal as they continued to flirt and tease each other.
As soon as they took off, Viggo maneuvered his horse so he could sneak a glance at Orlando, but it didn’t work as Brad’s body shielded most of him from Viggo’s prying eyes, to his surprise, Orlando seemed perfectly content to rest his head on his husband’s shoulder for the majority of the ride, something which clearly pleased Brad, while one arm was firmly wrapped around Orlando for the duration of the ride.
In fact, what little Viggo had seen of Orlando, they were sure to get a surprise at the dinner when they could actually see what he looked like when he took the hood off. He couldn’t wait to see if the rumors of his beauty were true.
TBC
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