Episode 1
“PENIS TIME™️!” Tobias shouted, dropkicking himself through the solid oak front door. Percival sighed and got up from breakfast. His father had been at work for just a few hours and was already returning home to service his mother.
“Oh, finally, my darling husband spouse!” Venelope whimpered, already on the brink of orgasm from the sound of her husbands voice. Percy left quietly, before he was subjected to their love fuck.
He began taking a walk through the village, deep in thought. His father was considered to be the manliest man around, a huge, buff mountain of a man. Before he’d met Venelope, he had sexed up most women in the village, but as soon as he had clapped eyes on Percy’s mother, all bets were off. Tobias was besotted with her, as Percy could attest to by his constant need to leave the room while his parents loudly manifested their love physically. By fucking.
Percy loved his parents, despite the fact that their passionate, all consuming love sometimes ended up with him being yeeted through an open window. Tobias always aimed Percy at something soft. Like a hedge. Or a grazing sheep.
Tobias was a good man, a good husband and a good father. Percy’s biggest fear was disappointing him.
Which is why when Percy found himself loitering out Argon the blacksmith’s forge, his heart sank a little. He hadn’t meant to end up here, but he’d ended up here anyway.
Argon. Percy drank in the sight of him as he stood at his forge, forging, or whatever.
He was a broad, muscular man, always covered in sweat and oil. Percy was slender, but had the dark, handsome features of his father.
“Hello, Argon.” Percy said, a small smile on his face.
“Percy!” Argon beamed, his face lighting up. Why did Percy’s stomach feel so funny when Argon looked at him? Why did Percy long for Argon to wrap those muscular arms around him?
This wasn’t how it was meant to be. Percy should feel this way about women, he should be looking for a wife, not daydreaming about the blacksmith.
Argon sat down and patted the space next to him.
Percy joined him, his slender shoulders bumping against Argon’s solid ones.
“Parents at it again?” Argon chuckled. Tobias’ lust for his wife was well known around the village.
“Of course. At least I walked out of the house this time. Father didn’t need to throw me.”
“An enviable love, your parents have.” Argon said, smiling. Argon patted Percy’s knee, but for some reason, kept his hand there after. Percy looked at Argon’s hand, and then at Argon, only to find him staring deeply in to Percy’s eyes.
Percy swallowed nervously.
“You’re a good man, Percival. A good, kind man.” Argon murmured.
Percy could take the tension crackling in the air no longer. He pulled Argon’s face towards his, and pressed his lips urgently against the burly blacksmiths.
Percy’s stomach exploded with what felt like a thousand flowers blooming inside him. Argon responded with vigour, wrapping his huge hand around the nape of Percy’s neck and pulling him closer still. After half a minute or so, Percy pulled away, horrified at himself. Argon was a man. What would his father say? What would the village say?
Argon looked down at him breathlessly, a gorgeous smile on his face. He began to lean in again, but Percy bolted away as fast as his legs could carry him, leaving Argon hurt and confused. Percy burst through the (now repaired due to Tobias’ threats of violence) door, just as his parents were kissing each other goodbye as Tobias went back out to work.
“See you at dinner, son.” Tobias clapped him on the shoulder, almost sending him flying.
“Bye dad.” Percy responded, quietly, unable to look at Tobias in the face.
He retreated to his room, lay his head in his hands and wept. Patricia, his favourite cow, mournfully mooed at the window.
Episode 2
Percy woke up the next morning to the sound of Tobias screaming “INCOMING CUM BOMB”. Grateful he’d slept through his parents first fuck of the day, he rubbed his eyes and was suddenly hit with the horror of yesterdays events. He had kissed Argon the blacksmith!
Percy was in turmoil. He lay his head in his hands and wept silent tears. What would his father say if he knew? Why was Percy so different? He wished he could say that he didn’t enjoy it, that kissing Argon felt wrong and had made him realise a deeply buried desire for women.. but he couldn’t. As he remembered the feel of Argon’s rough hands at the nape of his neck, his lips gently touching Percy’s.. he shuddered. Kissing Argon had been the most excitement he’d ever felt, apart from the one time Patricia, his favourite cow, had won ‘best in show’. Patricia appeared at his window, and mooed softly. Percy patted her head and dragged himself out of bed. He would avoid Argon, he would bury these feelings deep within and never speak or act on them again. He would find a wife, settle down and have children. He was resolute in this plan, and although his heart felt like it was breaking, he was a determined young man, and he knew it was the only way.
“Good morning, son.” His mother smiled sweetly at him, she had just been hip thrusted in to the kitchen by Tobias, where she was busy preparing breakfast for her family. Like a good wife. Tobias came striding in and passionately kissed her on the mouth.
“Excellent sex.” He boomed. As a tender after thought, he added “excellent wife.”
Venelope squeaked out a cry of lust at her husbands affection, and then handed him a plate of food, which Tobias tipped in to his mouth in a manly way.
“Percy, my sonny jim laddy boy boy!” He said, striding over to him and clapping him on the shoulder, almost sending Percy crashing through the breakfast table.
“I have arranged for you to become an apprentice! Time for you to learn a trade, sonny laddy boy!”
Percy cheered at the news. He had tried to help his father with woodcutting, but Tobias had the ability to verbally abuse trees until they fell down in fear, whereas Percy did not.
“Get washed and dressed, son, and get down to Argon’s forge. He’s going to teach you a thing or two about longswords.”
With that, Tobias thrust his genitals once in Venelope’s direction, causing her to orgasmically queef, and left the house.
Percy sat in a state of shock. So much for avoiding Argon.
Episode 3
IPercy knew there was no point trying to argue his way out of the apprenticeship. His father valued hard work and would not allow Percy to turn down such an opportunity to learn a valuable trade such as smithing. Besides, Tobias had already left.
“You’re going to be fine, Percy.” Venelope smiled, sensing her son’s nervousness.
He washed and dressed and set out to the forge. The sun was still low in the sky, bathing the village in shimmering golds and soft pink light. It was a beautiful day, but Percy couldn’t have felt worse. Not only did Percy now have to face the man he’d inexplicably kissed yesterday, he had to work with him!
Approaching the forge, he saw Argon, and his stomach flipped. They locked eyes.
“Hello, Percy.” Argon said, offering his hand. Percy shook it nervously, trying to ignore the butterflies blooming in his stomach as they touched.
“Hello, Argon.” Percy replied.
“Let’s get to work shall we?” Argon smiled, but the smile didn’t quite reach his eyes.
So Argon was going to pretend nothing had happened between them? Percy didn’t know whether to be relieved or upset.
The day plodded along, with Argon teaching Percy in a perfectly polite, professional manner. They worked in close proximity and more than once, Argon reached over and corrected the position of Percy’s hands. The contact was brief, and perfunctory, but Percy couldn’t help but feel disappointed when Argon removed his touch almost immediately. Percy was growing angrier and angrier as the day wore on.
How could Argon treat him like nothing but a stranger? Like yesterday hadn’t even happened?
The day was drawing to a close.
“You’ve done well today, Percy.” Argon said, not even looking at him. Percy could take it no longer.
“WHY ARE YOU PRETENDING YESTERDAY DIDN’T HAPPEN?” Percy almost shouted, throwing the hammer thing that blacksmiths use to the floor. Is there a special name for it? Or is it just a hammer? Well either way, it was now on the floor.
“I thought that’s what you wanted?! You ran away from me so quickly yesterday, I couldn’t sleep thinking about it!” With his facade gone, Percy could see how tired and upset Argon looked. His heart sank, and he rushed to Argon’s side.
“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I just, I don’t know what to make of this… I’m so scared.” Percy stammered, feeling heat rise to his cheeks as he tried to hold back tears.
Argon pulled Percy to him and held him for a moment. Percy revelled in Argon’s arms around him. The world went quiet and still, the only sound Percy could hear was the elevated thrum of Argon’s heart in his ear. The air shifted around them, a sort of electricity crackled in the air (despite it not being invented yet) and Percy knew, if he just looked up at Argon’s face, just tilted his head a little, that they’d kiss again.
He couldn’t resist it. He lifted his head and locked eyes with Argon. The pair looked at each other for a moment, and then their lips collided. Percy pushed away his doubts and fears, and poured every ounce of anguish he’d endured over the past day in to the kiss. Percy kissed Argon with such ferocity and passion that Argon moaned gently in to Percy’s mouth. Argon’s hands roamed Percy’s body, tentatively at first, but growing in intensity until he was clutching at Percy like he needed him to breathe. Percy felt himself stiffen, his fears gone. Nothing could feel more right than this. Fuck what the village thought, fuck what anyone thought. Argon’s mouth on his was all he needed, all he wanted…
The door clicked behind them. They sprung apart, breathless, staring at the door. Then Argon said two words that made Percy’s blood turn in to ice in his veins.
“Someone saw.”
Episode 4
“No.. no no no!” Percy stammered, clapping his hands to his head, panic setting in. This couldn’t be happening. Somewhere deep down he’d hoped that he could explore these feelings he was harbouring for Argon, that it was harmless, nobody knew after all. But that was ruined before it had even began. Somebody knew. It was a small village and everybody knew everybody. The news would spread like wildfire before Percy could blink.
“Calm down, Percy. It isn’t the end of the world.” Argon soothed, taking a step towards him. Percy looked at him in horror.
“No! Don’t touch me! If my father finds out about this… God, what have I done?” Percy was sweating now, his stomach churning. He felt like he might throw up.
“Percy.” Argon said sternly. “We’ve done nothing wrong. We can’t control who we love. It isn’t possible.”
Percy wanted to run out of the door and not stop until he was far away from the village. From everybody. Instead, he sat down and a fat, miserable tear rolled down his cheek. Argon was next to him instantly, his muscular arm around Percy’s slender shoulders.
“It’s okay. It’s going to be okay.” Argon murmured, his hand rubbing circles between Percy’s shoulder blades.
They sat together for a while until Percy had calmed down.
“I have to go. My father will be wondering where I am.” Percy said finally. But he was terrified to go home. What if it was his mother who had seen? He knew it wasn’t Tobias, as his father was not known to be discreet. His mother, however, was a sweet, gentle soul. She could have walked in and seen Percy wrapped in Argon’s arms, and left in horror.
“Please, come back tomorrow morning. It’ll look strange if you don’t. You’re supposed to be my apprentice after all.” Argon said at the door. Percy just nodded dumbly, his thoughts a million miles away.
He took a slow walk home, it was getting dark, and Percy could see the first few stars shimmering in the sky.
“Hello, Percy!” A sweet voice called to him. Percy spun around and saw Elvira, the bakers daughter. They had been friends since childhood, and Percy thought of her as a sister.
“Hello Elvie.” Percy said, attempting to smile warmly at her.
“Could you walk me home?” She asked.
Elvie was a beautiful girl, with long inky black hair that fell to her waist, bright blue eyes framed by impossibly long eyelashes, and a smile that lit up a room. Many men had sought her hand in marriage, and she’d turned them all down. She was her fathers pride and joy, and he hadn’t approved of a single suitor that had come knocking at their door. Elvie’s father, Jacob, and Tobias were good friends.
“Of course.” Percy smiled, happy to delay going home.
“Where have you been?” He asked. She smiled coquettishly.
“With a friend.” She grinned.
“Oh, and this friend couldn’t walk you home?” Percy teased. It was so easy to forget his troubles around her.
Elvie laughed softly.
“They were far too tired, by the time I’d finished with them!”
Percy laughed. Elvie linked her arm through his, and they joked and laughed for the rest of the walk to her house.
Elvie kissed his cheek goodbye, and skipped through her front door, only to bump straight in to Tobias, who was just leaving Jacob’s house.
“There she is!” Tobias smiled down at her. Elvie barely reached Tobias’ chest. She beamed up at him.
“Hello, Tobias!” She giggled. Unlike most of the village, she wasn’t scared or intimidated by him, having spent plenty of time around him while growing up with Percy. Tobias was very fond of her, treating her like a daughter.
“Been out causing mischief with my son, Elvira?” Tobias smirked, winking at Percy.
Percy internally breathed a sigh of relief. He didn’t know.
“Of course I have, but you’ll never prove it.” Elvira smiled. Tobias chuckled.
They said their goodbyes and Tobias and Percy began the short walk home. Tobias chatted easily with Percy, asking questions about his day.
“I’m proud of you, son.” He said, clapping Percy on the shoulder. “Argon’s a good man, there’s a lot he can teach you.”
Percy could have cried. He wouldn’t be so proud if he knew what Percy had been doing earlier this evening.
They arrived home, and Venelope hugged her son warmly, and chattered away as she prepared dinner for all of them. So she didn’t know either.
Percy was in turmoil.
His parents didn’t know. But somebody did.
Who? And would they use the information against him?
Percy finished his dinner and quickly retreated to his bedroom, as his father had made it very clear that it was now sex time, and Venelope had enthusiastically agreed.
Laying on his bed, he saw Patricia pop her fuzzy head in the window.
“Moo.” Was the last thing he heard before shoving his fingers in his ears to drown out the sound of Tobias yelling “Hump time is here.”
Episode 5
The next morning came, and Percy woke up sweating. The full force of last nights events came crashing down on him. Somebody knew, somebody saw him in Argon’s arms. That someone had the power to ruin his life if they wanted to.
Percy took a deep breath, and Argon’s words came back to him. “We’ve done nothing wrong. We can’t control who we love. It isn’t possible.”
This was true. If it was possible to control, he would have married Elvira by now, and they’d be happily humping away, producing heirs. But Percy just wasn’t made that way, he wanted Argon. Argon was the only person he’d ever felt something for. Argon was dependable, kind, and wise. His strong, masculine presence soothed Percy’s soul, his constant, unwavering presence was the antidote to Percy’s chaotic home life.
Percy washed and dressed and went to the breakfast table, where his mother greeted him warmly and served him his breakfast. Tobias was nowhere to be seen, and Percy assumed he had already gone to work.
Kissing his mother on the forehead, he set out to Argon’s forge. Despite the current of panic that had ran through him for the past 12 hours, Percy couldn’t help but feel excited to see Argon again. The sun was rising over the thatched houses, shimmering through the trees. It was another beautiful day.
Percy stood outside the forge, his heart rate accelerating at the prospect of seeing him again.
As he reached for the handle, the sound of Tobias’ booming laugh came from within the forge. Percy’s heart kicked in to overdrive. His father was here?
Frozen in place, his hand hovering in front of the door, he wasn’t sure what to do.
There was no point standing here, and logic told him that Tobias wasn’t here because he’d suddenly found out about Percy and Argon. He certainly wouldn’t be laughing if that were the case. He tentatively pushed open the door.
“There’s my boy!” Tobias boomed, smiling at his son.
“Hello dad. Hello Argon.” Percy said, quietly. His heart was pounding in his chest, but at the sight of Argon, a wave of peace and warmth spread through his body. He couldn’t help the smile that bloomed across his face. Argon was smiling too, and for a moment Percy forgot his father was even there.
How could something that felt so right, so pure and wonderful.. how could that be wrong?
“Hello Percy, ready for another day?” Argon grinned.
“Don’t work him too hard, Argon.” Tobias said, shaking Argon’s hand and patting Percy on the shoulder as he left.
Finally alone, the two men gazed at each other for a moment. The tension in the air was palpable, but it was a good kind of tension. Swallowing hard, Percy broke the silence.
“What did my father want?”
“He wanted to check how your first day went, and he invited me to dinner at your house at the end of the week.”
Percy’s mouth fell open. Argon chuckled.
“It’s okay, Perce. No need to panic. It’s his way of thanking me for taking you on as my apprentice.”
Argon seemed so unbothered by everything, there was no unease, no fear, no guilt. Percy wasn’t surprised by this, he had been drawn to Argon’s carefree, open nature since the day they met.
“Speaking of which, apprentice, we have work to do.” Argon winked, and Percy’s stomach did a tiny flip.
Percy found that he enjoyed smithing, Argon explained things easily, and allowed Percy to develop his own methods, providing gentle advice when things weren’t working, and praising Percy when he did things well.
Half the day had flown by already, and Argon suggested it was time for lunch. He produced a basket full of cheeses, fruits and meat, and took him to a meadow a few minutes walk from the forge. They sat down, and began to eat. Percy was tense for a while, constantly looking around to see if anyone was watching, but soon found himself relaxing in to the conversation. Argon was an expert at making him feel at ease. They spoke about everything and nothing, but the thorny topic of their relationship was avoided entirely. After finishing the picnic, Argon sighed deeply.
“I’ve always liked you, Percy. Ever since we were young boys at school. You were always so quiet, so studious. You never paid attention to the other boys antics. I could never keep my eyes off you, you were always staring out of the window, looking up at the sky like it was the most magical thing you’d ever seen.” He paused, his face radiant. Percy’s cheeks heated and he lowered his gaze.
Argon had attended the village school for a few years, but was then taken out by his father to learn smithing. Argon’s father had died a few years back, and Argon had taken over the forge. He was young, but skilled at what he did.
“I knew then that I was different from the other boys.” Argon continued. “I had no interest in chasing around girls, I could never look at them as anything other than friends. I knew that I liked men in general. And you in particular.”
Percy was silent, his mind racing. He didn’t know what to say.
“I always saw you with Elvira, playing and laughing. Everyone figured you two would get married and have babies. Every time someone mentioned it I wanted to be sick. Couldn’t bear to think of you with her. I struggled a lot back then, coming to terms with who I was. Who I am.” Argon was silent for a while, deep in thought. Percy just fiddled with a blade of grass, not sure how to process all of this information.
“I thought I had no chance with you, Percy. I got used to that idea. Didn’t think for a second you would ever like me back. I focused on smithing, and I focused all of the time I had spent thinking about you in to learning everything I could from my dad. It brought us closer together. I thought it did anyway.”
Argon swallowed, and his eyes filled with tears.
“I told him about me, Perce. Told him that I thought I loved boys instead of girls. Told him that I needed help, needed guidance to deal with all of these feelings.”
Percy’s mouth hung open again. He had told his father? Percy couldn’t imagine telling Tobias. It was unheard of. Percy thought Argon was the bravest person he’d ever met. So Percy told him so.
“My father didn’t think so. He told me it was wrong, that I was ill. He told me no son of his would run his forge with these evil thoughts running through his mind. He said such horrible, awful things Percy. He ordered me to pray to the gods for forgiveness. So I did. I prayed every day for the gods to take these feelings away from me. To make me love women. But it made no difference.” Fat, glistening tears ran down Argon’s cheeks now. Percy was at his side in an instant. He lay his head on Argon’s shoulder. He didn’t even care who saw, he knew that Argon needed him right now.
“I told my father it worked. I told him that I had been blessed by the gods, that they had cured my ‘illness’ and I was all better now. I even went on a few dates with Freya to appease him, to convince him I’d changed.”
Percy was close to tears himself now, seeing Argon like this broke his heart.
“Then my fathers sickness settled in. I knew I was losing him.” Argon sniffed, sadly. “He made me promise that I’d marry a woman, that I’d father children and carry on the work of the forge for generations.”
“What else could I do, Percy? He was dying. I promised him. But after he died and some time had passed, I got angry at my father. I got angry at him for making me try to change who I am. For making me promise him things that would make my life unhappy. For making me feel guilt for things beyond my control. So I made myself a promise, that I’d never live a lie. I’d live and love truthfully, and the people who judged me for it were unworthy of my time.”
Argon had stopped crying now, but the look of sadness was still etched on his handsome face.
“And that’s why I can’t continue along this path with you Percy. I can’t hide behind closed doors, stealing kisses and moments with you. You’re not ready to live openly, you’re not ready to love me. You’re scared of what people will think, and I understand that, and I will pray to the gods that one day, we can love each other proudly. But until then, I will be your friend, I will be your teacher, I will be there for you when you need me. But I will not be your secret. I can’t.”
Episode 6
Percy stared at Argon. It seemed like he’d aged a decade in the past minute. The lines of sorrow seemed to be etched in his rugged, handsome face.
Percy took some time to process everything Argon said. He understood it, he agreed with it even, and he was so very proud of Argon for not caring about what others thought of him, he respected his wish to live his life truthfully, and without secrets. But he didn’t want it. He wanted Argon to take back those words, and take Percy in to his arms instead. But even as he thought about it, the image scared him. He wished he could be like Argon, wished he could throw caution to the wind and declare his love for Argon proudly. Tell his mother and father that this was who he loved, and this is who he wanted forever. But he couldn’t. He couldn’t bear to think of the looks on his parents faces if he told them he was desperately in love with a man.
“I’m sorry, Percy.” Argon said, with a sad smile.
“No, I understand.” Percy said, sorrow filling his sensitive heart. “I wish I could be like you, I wish I had the bravery to step out and tell people how I feel about you.”
Argon chuckled, but there was no joy in his laugh.
“It isn’t easy, I know. I’ve never had to publicly reveal myself to people in the village, because there was no need. There was only one man who needed to know how I felt, and that was you. But I can’t hide who I am, and I can’t live a lie, even if it makes my life easier.”
The pair were quiet then, both lost in thought.
“Come on Percy. Back to work.” Argon said finally.
The rest of the day was spent in relative silence, apart from work related talk. Both men felt like something beautiful was over before it had even began, like a flower that was never given the sunlight it needed to grow.
The day was finished, and the men murmured their goodbyes to each other. Percy didn’t want to go home, so he headed to Elvie’s house.
“Percy!” She exclaimed delightedly, her eyes shining.
“Come take a walk with me, Elvira.” Percy smiled. Elvie linked arms with him and they took a walk across the very meadow in which Argon had broken Percy’s heart.
“What’s the matter, Percy?” Elvira asked, the look of defeat on his face worrying her. They had been friends for such a long time, and Elvie longed for Percy to find happiness.
“Oh Elvie… I can’t talk about it. I want to, but, I just can’t. I just needed to be around you for a little while, you always make me happier.” He squeezed her hand and smiled sadly.
Elvie took a deep breath, unsure if her next move was the right one.
“Is this about you and Argon?” She said quietly.
Percy stopped dead in his tracks.
“Wh.. what? What do you mean?” He stammered, his heart pounding in his chest. He could feel the blood rushing to his face.
“Sweet, darling Percy…” Elvie smiled, putting her hand on his face. He looked so panicked.
“I saw you together. It was me who came to the forge. I was stopping by to see how your first day was going, because your father told mine that you were Argon’s apprentice. I walked in, and I saw you in his arms.” She smile reassuringly, looking in to his eyes.
A whirlwind of thoughts ran through Percy’s mind, explanations that he could come up with, an excuse as to why he was wrapped in Argon’s arms… A particularly unpleasant thought ran through Percy’s mind, a thought that made the heat rise to his cheeks and shame settle in his heart. He momentarily thought about blaming Argon, he could say that Argon kissed him, that Percy was just as shocked as Elvie was… but he banished the thought as quickly as it came. He couldn’t, he wouldn’t do that. He thought of Argon’s bravery, his honesty, his dignity, and felt awful that the thought could ever cross his mind to betray the man he loved. Elvie was looking at him expectantly, her eyes shining, a soft smile on her soft, pink lips.
Percy opened his mouth to speak, to explain.. but he broke down in tears instead. Huge, chest wracking sobs that consumed him from the inside. He sunk to the floor, his eyes streaming. Elvie knelt down and held him to her immediately, her fingers stroking his hair as she whispered “Shhh, darling. Shhh.”
“I’m so sorry, Elvie.” He sobbed. “I’m so sorry.”
Elvie inhaled sharply, and lifted his chin up to look at her.
“Sorry? For what?” She demanded, her eyes narrowing. Percy was stunned by her cross tone.
“I.. I know it’s wrong Elvie, I didn’t mean to let it get this far.” He stuttered.
“Wrong?!” Elvira cried, her beautiful face turning pink.
Percy was confused. Why was she so angry?
“Love is between a man and a woman.. I know that.. it’s just.. you have to believe I didn’t mean any of this.”
Elvira took a few deep breaths to compose herself.
“Percy, I saw you that day and ran straight to Freya’s house and told her I loved her. When I met you later that night, I had told her that one day we would be able to be together, because someone else in the village understood our love. We wouldn’t have to be alone and afraid together anymore. I was so proud of you for loving who you love with no shame or fear. I was tired of hiding, but my fear of my father finding out I was in love with a woman stopped me from loving her with my whole heart. Now, you’re telling me love is between a man and a woman, and you’re telling me it’s wrong. That my love for her is wrong? You’re not who I thought you were Percy.”
Percy was shellshocked. Elvira… she loved women? There was so much information for Percy to take in. The relief that it was Elvira who saw him soothed him, and the heavy panic that had made a home in his heart lifted a little. Elvira would never betray him. His secret was safe.
Elvie was shaking a little, her anger still bubbling at the surface. Her determination to live out her life with Freya had disintegrated. She had been so inspired by Percy, so proud of him. But here he was, calling both of their situations wrong. If her best friend in the world thought it was wrong, when he was going through the same thing, how could she expect her father to accept it? Elvie was not one for crying, but her eyes stung with the promise of tears.
“Elvie.. I’m so sorry, I didn’t know.” Percy whispered.
“Of course you didn’t.” Elvie sniffed, defeatedly.
“We’ve been in love for two years, Percy. We fought it as hard as we could, but… I love her. She loves me. It doesn’t feel wrong when we’re together. It’s like my life was constant nighttime before, I fell in love with Freya and she lit up my sky forever, like the brightest, most colourful star. I don’t want to go back to the darkness. I don’t want to be without her Perce. But it looks like I can’t be with her, and now I don’t know what to do.”
Hearing the passion in her voice, the way she spoke about Freya.. it was how he felt about Argon. He took her in his arms and held her, for his own comfort, as well as hers. As the sun slipped behind the horizon, a thought occurred to him, a niggling idea that made its way in to his brain and rooted itself there.
“There’s something we could do…” Percy began, his mouth moving before his brain had even decided to speak. Elvie sniffed and looked at him, her dark eyes bright with treacherous tears. Percy took a deep breath and prayed to the gods above that she wouldn’t laugh at him.
“We could… get married.”
Episode 7
Elvira didn’t laugh. In fact her face was horrified.
“Married? Are you insane Percy? What good would that do?” She cried.
“It would keep our parents happy, and if I really have to take a wife, I’d rather it be someone I love, like you.”
She smiled softly then, and touched her head to Percy’s shoulder.
“And what then, Percy? We play married for the rest of our lives, sneak off for secret trysts with our lovers and then produce a couple of kids to keep up appearances?”
“I won’t be sneaking off for anything, Elvie. Argon has already said he won’t live a lie. It wouldn’t be a typical marriage, but I’d look after you, and… And you know, I’d like kids.” Percy said, quietly.
“This is ridiculous Percy. Getting married won’t solve a damn thing, and if anything, it’ll make the both of us even more unhappy. We’ll both be trapped in a lifestyle we don’t want, torn away from the people we love.. for what?”
Percy knew she was right, but such a huge part of him wished she’d just agree. His secrets would be safe, he’d make his father happy, and they’d have some semblance of happiness too, even if it wasn’t the perfect future Percy really wanted. Percy would be a good husband to her. He’d treat her well, provide for her, keep her safe. Whatever she wanted.
“I have to go, Percy. I promised Freya I’d see her tonight. I have to talk to her about some things I think.” Elvie said, sadly, kissing him on the cheek and leaving.
Percy returned home. He stopped by Patricia, who welcomed him home with her soft moos. He scratched her fuzzy head affectionately and then walked through his front door to find his mother and father. The pair were playfighting together in the kitchen. Venelope was giggling as she leapt at her husband, only to find herself thrown over Tobias’ shoulder a moment later. They hadn’t noticed Percy yet.
He felt a stab of envy as he watched them. He wanted that for himself. The kind of carefree, easy love that his parents had was his ultimate goal. Sure, they annoyed him with their constant lovemaking and Tobias yeeting him through the nearest window whenever the need for his wife occurred, which was often. But they were obsessed with each other, and their love for each other was so brazenly evident in everything they did and said to each other.
“Percy!” Venelope smiled, as she caught sight of her son while hanging off her husbands shoulders.
“Put me down you big oaf!” She giggled, smacking Tobias’ butt. He returned the favour and set her down gently, before turning to face his only child.
“Percy, my boy!” He beamed. Percy tried his hardest to smile back.
“Come eat with us!” Venelope said, gesturing to the table. Percy swallowed down his sadness, and sat down to eat with his parents.
He woke up the next morning, the sun blazing through his window.
He washed, dressed, kissed his mother goodbye and made his way to the forge. Argon greeted him with a smile, and Percy’s heart filled with joy. Despite their conversation yesterday, Percy could still feel the crackle of electricity between the two of them. He was sure Argon could feel it too. It distressed Percy that even though he couldn’t be with Argon, just being around him soothed Percy’s soul. It was how Percy knew he loved him.
They worked together the entire day, joking and laughing together. Percy was surprised at how easy things were, given the tension yesterday. Things weren’t awkward, or sad. Argon made him light up. His gentle, reassuring way illuminated and magnified the best qualities in Percy.
He spoke to Argon about his proposal to Elvira and her reaction to it. He left out the part about Elvira and Freya, as that wasn’t his story to share. Percy wasn’t a vicious person in the slightest, his intentions were always good, but he realised too late that telling Argon about this probably hurt him. If it did, Argon didn’t show it.
“She has a good head on her shoulders, Percy. She’s just trying to protect you from making a decision you will regret for the rest of your life.” He said. Percy sighed.
“I shouldn’t have told you any of that, Argon. It was rude of me to even mention it after the talk we had yesterday. I’m just so lost right now. I’m sorry.” Percy murmured quietly, staring in to Argon’s eyes.
Argon stared back at him for a long time, deep in thought. He wished that Percy saw himself the way Argon saw him. He saw Percy for not only what he was, but what he had the potential to be. His inherent goodness, his kindness, his pure heart. Percy was just a good man, without a cruel or spiteful bone in his body. Argon’s feelings rushed to the surface, despite how deeply he was constantly trying to bury them, and before he could stop himself he was at Percy’s side, pulling him roughly against his body and kissing him like he was drowning, and Percy was the air he needed to breathe. Percy froze in shock for just a moment, and then responded with such fervour it took Argon’s breath away. This wasn’t like before when they’d kissed, there was no hesitance, no shyness. This was everything that they wanted to say, everything they needed to say, everything they felt for each other poured in to a kiss.
They pulled apart, breathless, their noses touching. Argon expected to see the regret making its way across Percy’s face, but there was none. Percy looked.. happy. He smiled up at Argon with such adoration in his eyes that Argon had to fight back tears.
“I love you.” Percy whispered, his hand reaching up and stroking Argon’s face. Argon’s heart took flight inside him. He kissed Percy again softly, his hand at the back of Percy’s neck.
“I love you too.” He murmured. He pulled Percy close to his chest and held him. They pulled apart after a while, and it was like Argon could hear the perfect moment they’d just shared cracking and breaking. Percy inhaled deeply, and went to speak, but Argon cut him off with a kiss.
“Don’t.” Argon said, looking at Percy seriously. “Don’t say a word, please. Let me have this. Go home, and we can talk tomorrow. I don’t want what just happened to be ruined by words, or sense, or reason.”
Percy smiled again, mostly because of how well Argon knew him. Percy was still in the clouds, soaring high above common sense and reason. So, he kissed Argon softly, and left without a word.
He strolled home, the happiest he’d ever felt in his life. Right now, all things felt possible. Right now, Percy felt brave, and strong, and desperately in love.
Maybe he could tell Tobias about him and Argon. The thought didn’t even make Percy flinch. With Argon’s love, he felt he could do anything.
He was almost home. Today wasn’t the day to tell Tobias, however. Today was the day for Percy to curl up in bed and replay kissing Argon over and over in his head. He smiled to himself.
His smile dropped when he saw a figure lying on the floor a few feet away. They were groaning softly, their face partially obscured by a thick mane of black hair. His heart pounded for a different reason now, and he rushed over. He knew that figure.
He moved the hair out of her face and gasped in horror. Her eyes were swollen, her lips cut and bleeding, and dark bruises were just beginning to form under her skin. She looked up at him weakly, and tears began streaming down her face.
Elvie.
Episode 8
“Elvie?!” Percy stuttered, his heart pounding in his chest. His eyes filled with tears as he looked at her broken face. One eye was swelled completely shut, and her lip was bleeding. Her usually flawless skin was marred by bruises across her cheekbones and jaw. She was such a tiny little thing, he couldn’t imagine who would ever want to harm her.
“Elvie who did this to you?!” Percy urged, bringing his face close to hers and wrapping his fingers around her hand. She whimpered softly in response.
“PERCY?” The unmistakable roar of Tobias rattled through the village. He was next to them in seconds. He knelt down next to Elvie and stroked her hair back from her face.
“Oh sweetheart, who did this to you?” He soothed. “Percy, run to her fathers house and get him, quickly. I’m going to carry her back to ours, it’s closer.”
Elvie squeaked in pain and shook her head, tears streaming down her face.
“P..please. Don’t get my father.” She croaked. Tobias looked at her, concerned.
“He’ll want to know Elvie. He’ll be worried about you. And your mother..”
“Tobias, please. Please don’t.” She pleaded. Tobias sighed, it went against his better judgment not to inform her parents, but, he respected her wishes.
“Okay, sweetheart. I’m going to lift you up now, okay? You just relax, we’ll have you home in no time.”
Tobias scooped her up in to his arms like she weighed nothing. Percy walked beside them, unable to form words. Why didn’t she want her father to know? Did he do this to her? No. Elvie’s father was a good, decent man. He adored his daughter, and would never lay a finger on her.
They arrived home, and Venelope fussed and fretted over Elvie, cleaning her wounds and calming her down with idle chatter.
Tobias sat quietly in a corner, as did Percy.
“Did you see anything, son?” Tobias asked, his voice low.
“No. I was walking home and found her on the floor, then you came a minute later.” Percy said, twisting his fingers nervously, as he watched his mother dab lotions on Elvie’s eye. She seemed much more alert now, and even managed to giggle at some anecdote Venelope was telling her. Percy felt the relief surge through him. She was going to be okay.
“Who would do this to her?” Tobias muttered, half to himself.
“I don’t know dad. But I’m going to find out.”
The next morning came, and Percy walked in to the kitchen to find Elvie, Venelope and Tobias eating breakfast. Elvie looked awful, the bruises on her face were purple, a stark contrast to her pale skin. The cuts on her lips had made them swell, and her eye was still closed. Percy felt a surge of anger. He was such a passive person, rarely did he get angry or lose control, but seeing his best friend battered and bruised like this, it enraged him. He swore to himself he’d find the culprit and make them pay for what they did to her.
“Hey Perce.” She said, attempting to smile, and then wincing at the pain it caused her. Percy balled his hands in to fists.
“Hey.” He said, sitting down next to her and tilting her face towards him to get a better look at her injuries. “Who..?”
But Venelope scolded him immediately.
“Leave her alone, Percy. She’s been through enough without you interrogating her. She doesn’t know who did it, they snuck up on her.”
Elvie lowered her eyes and continued eating. Tobias sat at the table with a face like thunder.
“When I find them…” He muttered.
“You can stop that too, Tobias. The main thing is she’s okay, she’s safe. Percy, I want you to take her home to her family before you go off to the forge. I’m sure Jacob is frantic with worry.”
Percy nodded in agreement, but his eyes were on Elvira and the fat tear that dribbled down her cheek.
A while later, they were walking arm in arm through the village. It was still early, and the village was silent.
“What happened, Elvie?” Percy asked, not entirely sure he wanted to know the answer. Elvie was silent for a moment.
“Clara happened.”
Percy stopped still. Clara was Elvira’s stepmother, the only mother she’d ever known since her own had died when she was very small. Jacob, her father, had remarried quickly, not wanting Elvira to grow up without a maternal figure. It was a marriage of convenience, more than love or devotion, but Jacob catered to Clara’s every whim. As far as Percy knew, Clara was a stern, devout woman, but he never dreamed she’d be capable of this.
“We got in to an argument while father was at work. She told me it was time I married and moved out, and stopped relying on my father for everything. She told me my constant presence was causing strain in their marriage… I snapped, Percy. I was so wound up after we’d spoken, I couldn’t get Freya off my mind.. and, I told her if I was to get married, it’d be to Freya. I told her I was sick of hiding who I was and that it was time everyone knew who I loved.” Elvie’s voice cracked at this point, and she stopped for a moment. Percy couldn’t believe what he was hearing.
“Clara exploded at me. She told me I brought shame on my entire family, and that I was to keep my wicked thoughts to myself or I’d cause my father a heart attack.. and then she started hitting me, screaming at me that I was vile, and evil. I was in shock. I didn’t expect her to take it well, but… I didn’t expect that. I pushed her off me and ran out of the house, I was on my way to you.. and then I collapsed.” She looked up at Percy, and it was the first time he’d ever seen fear in her eyes. She was usually so calm, so strong, so feisty. To see her broken like this tore Percy apart. No wonder she didn’t want to go home.
“Do you think she’s told your father?” Percy asked. Elvie’s house was in sight now.
“No, I don’t imagine she has.” She replied, her eyes fixed on the front door. Suddenly, it flung open and there stood Jacob. His mouth dropped when he saw Elvira’s battered and bruised face, and he ran towards her.
“Darling, what happened? WHO DID THIS TO YOU? Your mother and I have been worried sick!” He was almost shouting, his hand tilting Elvie’s face in every direction to inspect the damage. Elvie winced in pain.
“I was walking last night and I was attacked by a bandit, father. I’m fine, honestly. It looks worse than what it is.” Elvie smiled, sadly.
Jacob gave a perfunctory nod to Percy, too distracted by his daughters face to exchange pleasantries.
“I’ll kill them. I’ll kill them with my bare hands…” Jacob growled, leading Elvira inside. She looked back at Percy once, and then closed the door.
Percy made his way to the forge, his mind on Elvie and the troubles she was going through. He wanted to help her so badly, but how? Clara would keep Elvie’s secret, he was sure. If she exposed Elvie, Elvie would expose her, and Percy didn’t think Jacob would take too kindly to Clara’s assault on Elvie, regardless of the reason. But would she use the information she had on Elvie against her? Make her life harder than it already was? Percy wasn’t sure what Clara was capable of. Percy’s thoughts were interrupted by Argon appearing in front of him, a beautiful smile on his face.
“Hey, Perce.” He winked, putting his hand on Percy’s shoulder and leading him inside. Despite his dreadful day, Percy’s heart lifted at the sight of Argon, his troubles melting away as he looked in to his eyes. Argon seemed to feel the same way, because as soon as they got inside, Argon pinned him against the door and crashed his lips to Percy’s, kissing him with such passion, that Percy had trouble remaining upright. Another part of him certainly didn’t seem to have any trouble staying upright though... (penis).
Warmth bloomed in his stomach as they kissed, and Percy found a new confidence within himself, his hands tentatively exploring Argon’s body. He caressed Argon’s back, his firm backside, and the taut muscles of his stomach. Then, with a boldness that shocked him, he pressed himself against Argon’s impressive package. Argon moaned in to Percy’s mouth, and the two became a frenzy of tongues and hands, their bodies so close they were almost one person. Argon pulled away panting, and chuckled softly.
“You’re a bad influence, Percival.” He said, taking a step back.
Percy blushed.
“Well, I’m not apologising.” He said, his confidence shocking him once again. It was so easy to be himself with Argon, to not have to put on a facade like he did with other people.
“I wouldn’t want you to.” Argon grinned.
“What happened to everything we talked about, Argon?“ Percy asked, his confidence waning a little. He was desperately afraid of the answer. Argon sighed.
“My resolve collapses around you Percy. I’ve never wanted anything more than I want you. I know that we can’t be together. I know that this whole thing is going to break my heart in the long run, but I can’t stay away from you. I can’t stand in the same room as you every day and act like I don’t want to take you in my arms and keep you there. I’ve waited far too long for you, Percy. Even if… even when you break my heart, at least I can say I loved someone with everything I have in me, even if it was only for a short while.”
Percy didn’t know what to say. He was both heartbroken, and elated. Heartbroken because Argon’s words were true - they couldn’t be together despite their desperate longing for each other, and elated because Argon had changed his mind, even if it wasn’t forever, maybe they could have a little time. Percy was just selfish enough that he would take whatever he could get, if it meant that he could be with Argon.
Argon was staring at him, expectantly. But Percy had no response, instead, he wrapped his arms around Argon’s shoulders and kissed him again.
The day flew by. They spent the day working, laughing, eating and kissing. Percy was surprised by how eager he was to further their relationship. He’d never had sex, of course, but spending the majority of the day wrapped up in Argon’s arms had him thinking about it pretty consistently now. He didn’t bring it up, but he was sure Argon felt the same. He could feel the urgency in Argon’s kisses, the way his hands roamed over Percy’s body, and the scorching way he looked at him. It was the sort of look that made his stomach flip, and his dick hard. He’d never experienced anything like it.
“Have you… ever uh…?” Percy began, his heart racing. Argon glanced up at him, a small smile playing on his lips. He put down his hammer and leant forward on the table.
“Have I ever… what?” Argon smiled. Percy cringed a little.
“You know what I’m asking, Argon.” Percy said a little uncomfortably.
“I have no idea, actually, Percival. What are you asking me?” Argon was enjoying himself now. Percy couldn’t help but grin at the look on his face. He looked so… sexy.
Percy rolled his eyes.
“Sex, Argon. Have you ever had it?”
“How very brazen of you to ask such an impertinent question, Percival! How frightfully forward!” Argon was chuckling now, enjoying Percy’s obvious awkwardness. He stalked over to Percy, forcing him against the door. Percy gulped as he saw the hungry look in Argon’s eyes. He leaned down and slowly brushed his lips over the skin of Percy’s shoulder, trailing kisses up his neck and along his jaw, before breathing in his ear the words that made Percy’s… well… everything stand on end.
“No, I haven’t. But I’m hoping that’s about to change.”
Percy gulped, his heart felt like it was thrumming in his throat. Argon was so close now, the look in his eyes almost predatory. He was pinned against the door, with Argon’s arms either side of him. He took a deep breath and tried to slow his heart rate, but right now he was looking at everything he’d ever wanted, and he was finding it harder and harder to restrain himself from jumping on top of Argon right here, right now. He was aware of every nerve ending in his body, because Argon had lit up every single one of them with his touch.
“What are you thinking?” Argon said softly, his eyes never leaving Percy’s.
“I.. I’m thinking about.. how much I want you.” Percy stammered. He wasn’t confident in these matters, which was surprising, because his parents fucking were and he had to listen to enough of it. Argon smiled, his face radiant from the glow of the forge.
He trailed a finger down the back of Percy’s neck, pausing at the top of his spine, and the touch made Percy shiver.
“I want you too. From the moment I met you. It’s always been you, Percy.” He smiled. Percy could have melted on the spot at the sound of Argon’s voice, low and warm in his ear. Percy had never experienced this feeling so intense before, he realised just how aroused he was, how eager he was to make love to him. It was a totally new feeling, how desperate he was.
Argon brought his face close to Percy, licking his lips in a way that made Percy feel like a delicious treat that Argon couldn’t wait to savour. He stopped, an inch away from Percy’s lips and chuckled softly.
“But not here.” Argon said, releasing Percy from his arms. Percy audibly protested.
“However badly I want you, Percy, I’m not going to make love to you here. I want our first night together to be perfect, I want to lay you down in bed, and show you how much I love you, all night long. I want to wake up the next morning beside you, and know that at that moment, you’re truly mine. Even if it isn’t forever Percy, I have to have you like that, just once.” Argon’s eyes shone as he spoke, and Percy felt his heart swell. He wanted that too, he had no idea just how much until he’d heard the words from Argon’s lips. Despite the fact that he knew they couldn’t be together, his head and his heart were suddenly filled with images of the two of them, in a little cottage, eating breakfast together, keeping chickens, looking after Patricia, and then perhaps having their own child. He had no idea how that would work, but… the dream was there. The thought made him so deliriously happy, and yet desperately sad, because he knew it would never come true.
“Is that too much?” Argon asked, his eyes worried now. Percy realised he had been silent for some time.
“No, Argon. It sounds perfect. I want that too.”
Argon could see the pain in Percy’s eyes, the same pain that was reflected in his. He pulled Percy close and held him. The sexually charged moment was gone, but what was left was so much sweeter. Argon gently kissed Percy on the top of his head. Words weren’t needed, the way they both felt was evident in every breath they took.
It was time for Percy to go home, and he kissed Argon gently on the mouth, that same delicious curl of desire unfurling in his belly when their lips touched. He began the walk home, and saw Elvie sat waiting for him. Her face was still bruised, but the real problem was the look on it. She looked.. broken. Dejected.
She rushed to him, and hugged him tightly.
“Elvie. What happened when you got home?” Percy asked, taking her hand.
“Clara acted like the concerned stepmother of course. My father was so angry, he wanted to go out hunting for the ‘bandits’ that attacked me.” She sniffed. Percy felt his anger rise to the back of his throat. Fucking Clara.
“When my father left for work this morning, she told me I did the right thing in keeping my mouth shut, and that she meant what she said, that I needed to get married and move out, or she’d ‘ruin’ me. Percy, I believe her. I don’t know what to do.” Elvie was crying now. Percy had only seen her cry a few times in his whole life, and most of them had been over the past few days.
Elvie looked at him, her face still beautiful despite the cuts and bruises.
“You’re the only person who knows what I’m going through, how hard this is for me. The situation is so complicated, and I’m so exhausted now. I’m so tired of being scared. So.. So, I was hoping Percy, that your offer still stands.” She whispered. Percy stared at her blankly for a moment, confused.
“What offer?“ he asked. She smiled weakly.
“I can’t believe I’m saying this Percy, but, will you still marry me?”
Percy was frozen to the spot for several moments.
“You’re the only one I could marry, Perce.” Elvie continued, her voice cracking.
“You know about me, and I wouldn’t have to hide around you. You wouldn’t have to hide from me either, because I know you too. There would be no expectations, no demands. You’re my best friend and if things were different… if we were different… we would have married anyway. I’m sorry to spring this on you, especially because of how I reacted when you asked me. I just… I don’t know what else I’m supposed to do. I’m so scared Percy.”
Percy was a whirlwind of emotions. All he could think of was Argon. He would be heartbroken. Something had changed between them over the past few days, their chemistry was still electric, but it had settled now, morphed in to something deeper. They had told each other how they felt, they had fantasised about a future that they could never have… but Percy had started to feel like they had time, time to enjoy and explore their love before they had to accept their fates and move on from each other. It was the smallest mercy that had been given to their situation. Time.
Now, Percy suddenly had to make a decision. On one hand, Elvie was his best friend, and he desperately wanted to free her from the pain he saw festering within her every time he looked in to her eyes, but on the other hand, if Percy said yes, he would be giving up what little time he had with the love of his life. He blinked at Elvie, his eyes settling on her face. The bright, vivacious girl he had adored since the moment they met was gone. Elvie was a shell of her former self, the fear and exhaustion so evident on her face that Percy could cry looking at her. Her tiny hands were wrapped around his now, and she looked up at him, the tiniest glimmer of hope in her eyes. Percy closed his eyes, the wave of heartbreak that engulfed him making him feel sick to his stomach at the words he was about to say.
“Yes, Elvie. I’ll marry you.” He whispered. Elvie exhaled audibly and squeezed Percy’s hands. Her eyes filled with tears and she gave a weak smile. There was no joy in this for either of them, no displays of excitement, this wasn’t a cause for celebration, this was survival. They were doing what they had to.
Elvie was crying now, tears of relief streaming down her face.
“Thank you Percy. You… you’ve saved my life.” She whispered, burying her head in his chest and weeping. He wrapped his arms around her and rested his head on hers. He wanted to cry, but he felt utterly numb.
“Let me talk to Argon before we announce it, Elvie. He deserves to hear this from me, not from village gossip.” Percy mumbled. Elvie nodded.
“I’ve already spoken to Freya. She’s not happy, but.. she wants me to be safe.” Elvie fiddled with her hands nervously. Percy nodded, unable to concentrate on what she was saying.
He walked her home, and idly kissed her forehead. She hugged him tightly, and Percy could feel the gratitude coming off her in waves. He assured her he’d speak to Argon as soon as he could.
He walked home, his entire body in a state of shock. He couldn’t bear the thought of hurting Argon, especially now things were progressing so beautifully between them. But, this was bigger than that now, he had to keep Elvie safe. Even if it meant Percy being unhappy. He’d get used to it, he was sure. Elvie was his best friend, she always had been.
See Percy part 2