Freedom; a word foreign to the tongue

[Barca]

Barca was overjoyed. The Syrian had paid his debt -- after many threats -- and now, Barca had enough to purchase not only his freedom, but Pietros' as well. He would not consider only buying his own after all. What was freedom without the man he loved. He had exchanged words with their Dominus, who tried to compel him to stay. Just as he had Gannicus. But Barca was set on purpose. He wished to leave, to be with Pietros and find what solace they could in this world. The offer to fight for the house of Batiatus as a free man was still an option, should they find need for coin. But it would not be a first resort. Barca withheld his smile, not wishing to reveal anything until he was alone with Pietros. He made his way to the celebrations, gently touching Pietros' arm.

"Come, I must have words." He gave a nod to the others, the room far too boisterous and loud for Barca to reveal news under. Besides, he wished it to be private moment between him and Pietros. When they reached their shared quarters, Barca turned to face him, his hands going to either side of Pietros' cheeks as he leaned forward and kissed him hard. Drawing back, a wide smile formed on his lips. "It is done." He knew that Pietros would understand, and would offer more explanation, once the news began to register. Yet Barca could not resist, another passionate kiss against Pietros lips in celebration as he closed the distance between them once more.

Tag: Pietros

[Pietros]

Pietros had partaken in too much wine, but he felt overjoyed as he danced, enjoying the party as his lover went to negotiate their freedom. Freedom. It still felt strange to even think the word, let alone speak it. He tried not to be concerned when Barca returned without a smile, and looked up at his face as Barca led them back to their shared quarters, saying they needed words. As soon as they were alone, Barca kissed him. Barca had said before that Pietros kissed with purpose, when he'd been excited abut their freedom. And now Barca kissed with the same purpose. Pietros returned the kiss, melting into it, and Barca confirmed his suspicion about what the kiss meant with his smile and his next words.

Pietros couldn't stop the noise of pleasure and excitement at the kiss that came next, the excitement threatening to burst from his chest, and when the kiss finally broke, Pietros couldn't help but grin and bounce on his feet a couple of times before throwing his arms around Barca's shoulders in a tight hug, his face pressing to Barca's neck. "The gods favor us," he exclaimed. He took a moment to relish this feeling, this utter joy, before pullling back to look at Barca again. "When do we leave?" he asked eagerly, his expression full of wonder and happiness. He'd already packed their few things. All left to do was release their birds and be gone. They were free.

Tag: Barca

[Barca]

Barca's smiled remained unwavering, seeing the joy on Pietros' face was all he needed. What made this even more exciting, that he could make good on the promise he had made to the man he loved. That they would one day be free. Be together as freemen. Build a life together. It was all Barca had ever wanted for the both of them.

The larger's man arms wrapped around Pietros, giving a slight chuckle at the excitement; a feeling shared. "They do," he answered honestly. "We leave at first light," Barca added on. "Let us celebrate tonight, drink with our brothers one last time, and bid them farewell at the coming of the sun." Barca would miss them of course. They had trained together. Fought alongside each other. But . . . he was ready to set this place to rest behind him. And focus on the future. With Pietros.

Tag: Pietros