Horatio Hornblower, High School AU
Title: At Justinian's Academy For Young Men
Pairing/Characters: Archie, Horatio, Edrington, Bowles, Bush, Simpson, Eccelston, Keene, Hepplewhite, Matthews, Styles, Wolfe, Jack Hammond, Orrock, Pellew; Archie/Horatio
Rating: PG-13 for some violence
Fandom: Horatio Hornblower
Theme set: High School
Summary: There's a new boy at Justinian's and Archie befriends him.
Notes/Warnings: The idea came to me before I found the community. After I did, however, it seemed fitting that I sign up. It took me awhile to actually sit down and figure out what to do, but here it is at last. I hope it's all right that I used the prompts out of order. It helped me tell the story better. Keep in mind that this is set in America in the current time period. Enjoy! Beta by mylodon.
At Justinian's Academy For Young Men
7. Sports (624)
Archie Kennedy always went for a swim in the mornings. It helped him clear his head and prepare for the day ahead. It was just him in the water and no one else. He'd started the habit as a little boy, when the only time he could be by himself was in the mornings, when his five brothers and sisters and his parents were all asleep.
He'd slip out of bed and change into his swim trunks, making sure he didn't disturb his brothers. Then he'd nip downstairs, skipping the stair that creaked, and grab a towel from the linen closet before he slipped out the back door. The dogs would always come over to have their ears rubbed and Archie always obliged them. If he didn't, they'd start whining and he ran the risk of them waking up the family. Then he'd pull of his T-shirt and slip into the water with barely a splash.
Now, at prep school, he'd learned how to sneak out of his room without waking up his roommate, and make a dash for the athletics complex. The east door was never locked, so he was able to sneak in that way. He'd change into his swim trunks in the locker room and take a quick cold shower before out to the pool and slipping in.
As he finished a sprint across the pool, a quiet 'sploosh' caught his attention. Another boy had slipped into the water on the other side of the pool, the early morning sun gleaming on a mop of ebony curls. Before Archie could get a good look, the other boy had disappeared under the surface of the water. Feeling small waves sway him as the stranger swum through the water, Archie stayed where he was. The boy surfaced in the lane next to Archie's, tossing his head to shake his sodden curls out of his eyes. He opened them moments later, brown eyes meeting Archie's blue ones shyly. Archie smiled warmly in reply and the dark-haired boy brightened.
Seized by a mischievous impulse, Archie indicated the lanes they were in and tilted his head in silent inquiry. The other boy frowned for a moment, puzzled, before realization dawned and he nodded, miming the freestyle stroke. Archie nodded back and they positioned themselves. When they had done so, he counted down and they launched themselves across the pool, swimming furiously. He could dimly feel the waves from the other boy's progress through the water, but he focused only on reaching the other side of the pool.
Tapping the wall at long last, he started treading water. Wiping it from his eyes, he looked around to find the other boy already treading water and looking smug. Archie narrowed his eyes and pretended to pout. The other boy's smirk widened. He nodded his head at the opposite side of the pool and mimed the breast stroke this time. Archie nodded and help up two fingers to indicate two laps rather than one. He received a nod in reply and they assumed their starting positions. The other boy counted down and they set off again.
This time, Archie won the race. The two boys raced each other several more times, using a different stroke each time, before they climbed out and headed to the locker room. They showered and dressed quickly in order to get to breakfast on time. It wasn't until they'd separated in the dining hall that Archie realized that they'd never formally introduced themselves. He shrugged and slipped into his seat beside his roommate, Frederick Edrington. They'd have a chance to introduce themselves some other time. It's not like Justinian's was a very big school, after all. A new face would be easy to spot.
2. Students (252)
When Archie entered his first class that day, he found his impromptu swimming companion sitting near Mr. Bowles' desk. The other boy's dark eyes widened when he saw Archie, but his surprise was soon replaced by a shy smile. Archie smiled brightly in return and hurried to his desk. As the other students filed in, Archie pulled out his homework assignment that was to be turned in that day, not sure if he'd done it at all correctly, but glad to have at least attempted.
Once all the students had arrived and settled into their seats, Mr. Bowles stood to address them. "As most of you have no doubt noticed, we have a new student." He indicated the dark-haired boy, who rose awkwardly to his seat, barely raising his dark eyes to meet the avid stares of the other boys. "Horatio Hornblower--" despite the chorus of suppressed snickers and snorts that greeted his words, Mr. Bowles pressed on, "--has just transferred to Justinian's from a public school. I trust you will make him feel welcome here."
At a nod from Mr. Bowles, Horatio took the empty seat next to Archie's, his cheeks bright red. Taking pity on the other boy's embarrassment and discomfiture, Archie reached across the aisle and patted his hand comfortingly. Horatio's head snapped around and he glanced at Archie questioningly. His only response was a reassuring smile. Horatio smiled weakly in reply and they turned their attention back to Mr. Bowles as he began the day's lesson.
6. Loner (1,104)
Horatio had been at Justinian's for two weeks and the only friends he'd managed to make so far were his roommate, William Bush, and his morning swim companion, Archie Kennedy. The former was calm, steady, and patient with Horatio's reticence. The latter was gregarious, cheeky, and cheerful. Horatio had no idea why either of the other boys spent time with him, but they prevented him from being terribly lonely, a fact for which he was very grateful.
His mother had died when he was young and his father had never re-married, raising him alone. None of the other boys his age had wanted to be playmates with a bookish, reserved boy like Horatio, so he'd spent much of his childhood alone, long nose buried in one book or another. His father had insisted that he take up a sport of some kind to stay fit, so he'd chosen swimming. His lean build had aided him in taking up the sport and he'd determined that he would continue to swim when he started at Justinian's, which was how he'd met Archie.
At the moment, however, Horatio was very much alone. William had had to stay late at the library to do some extra research for a paper. Archie had a meeting with Mr. Bowles about his calculus grade. This left Horatio to walk to the dormitories alone in the deepening twilight, reflecting on the fact that he was still very much alone despite his two new friends. His ruminations were interrupted by a sneering voice, "Hello, Snotty."
Glancing up, Horatio took an involuntary step backwards. He was face-to-face with Jack Simpson, an older student with thin red-blond hair, a sharp nose, cold gray eyes, and a cruel mouth. Despite the greeting, Horatio said nothing. This prompted a sneer from the other boy, who was looking rather smug and arrogant. "What's the matter, Snotty? Lost your tongue now that you're not in class?"
Though a couple years older than Horatio, Jack had been in his calculus class, having flunked it during each of his previous attempts at taking the course. When Jack had missed a rather simple question on Horatio's first day of class, the younger boy had not only corrected Jack's mistake, but also finished the problem correctly quite rapidly, gaining respect from his classmates. As he'd returned to his seat, he'd met Jack's eyes for a moment and the cold hatred he'd seen in those eyes had caused a shiver to trickle down his spine. A similar shiver put in an appearance as Jack sneered at Horatio once more, shoving him backwards a few steps. "Or maybe you don't know anything except math."
Horatio stumbled, but caught himself and turned to face Jack once again, meeting his cold eyes defiantly. The amusement disappeared from the thin face hidden behind the lank hair, leaving behind a twisted, angry expression. Without further warning, Jack backhanded Horatio across the cheek, snapping his head to one side. The coppery taste of blood filled his mouth and Horatio knew he'd split his lip. Spitting out the blood, Horatio faced Jack once again. Anger still twisting his features, Jack punched Horatio, knocking him to the ground. He landed heavily on his hands and knees, the pebbles and gravel scraping his palms and ripping the trousers of his school uniform. Rather than stay down, Horatio attempted to get up and face Jack.
Not bothering to wait for Horatio to be upright, Jack kicked him in the ribs, sending him to the ground once again. Jack continued to rain blows and kicks on Horatio, who made one more attempt to get up before he conceded and rolled into a ball in an attempt to protect himself from the worst of the blows. As he lay there, Horatio dimly wondered if anyone would come or if he would simply have to endure until Jack tired of his sport.
* * *
"What did Mr. Bowles say, Archie?" Frederick asked as the two roommates left the building and headed for the dormitories.
"He said I can do it, I just have a block on the concepts and need help getting past it." Archie rolled his eyes as he said this, exasperated.
The other boy shrugged. "I'd offer to help, but math has never been a strong subject for me."
"I know and I thank you for the thought." Archie patted his roommate's shoulder with a smile.
Frederick opened his mouth to reply, but a familiar voice from further down the path forestalled him. "Come on, Snotty. You can do more than curl up like a baby!"
"Simpson." Frederick's lip curled disdainfully. "Sounds like he found a new victim now that you've stood up to him, Archie."
Archie sighed, breaking into a trot. "That doesn't mean we can't help. Come on."
He heard Frederick follow him, commenting quietly, "I didn't say that we shouldn't help."
Archie drew in a sharp breath when he saw Simpson raining blows on someone curled up on the ground, clearly making no attempts to get away or fight back. Summoning his courage and gathering his voice, Archie bellowed, "Simpson! What are you doing?"
The older boy glanced up at Archie's shout, a sneer curling his lips, though Archie was sure she saw a flash of apprehension in the gray eyes. "What does it look like I'm doing, Kennedy?"
"Beating up someone who's not even fighting back," Archie retorted, inwardly flinching when he recognized Jack's victim as he came to a halt facing the taller boy, folding his arms across his broad chest.
"What business is it of yours if I am?" Jack taunted, nudging Horatio sharply, causing the other boy to groan pitifully, his body attempting to curl into a tighter ball. Jack laughed at that, cruel, mocking laughter that would have sent shivers down Archie's spine a year ago.
"I'll tell Mr. Keene," Archie threatened as Frederick finally came to a stop by his side, gazing coolly and contemptuously at Jack. Though younger than the other boy, Frederick had never been one to be bullied or intimidated by anyone, even when he and Archie had played together when they were little.
Jack laughed derisively. "As if the old ass would do anything about it! He cares more about his aches and pains than this school."
"Fine, I'll go to Mr. Eccleston, then," Archie countered without missing a beat.
That shut the other boy up. Glowering darkly, he kicked Horatio one last time before slinking away into the darkness. Sighing heavily, Archie dropped to his knees beside his newest friend to see how badly he was hurt, Frederick lingering nearby.
3. Drama (738)
Frederick had gone to get Dr. Hepplewhite, the school physician, while Archie had remained with Horatio, unwilling to move the other boy and risk aggravating his injuries. William had happened on them shortly after Frederick left and been horrified to hear what had happened. He had regretted staying in the library instead of going with Horatio, but Archie had reminded him that they couldn't have known Jack would ambush Horatio. One thing they'd agreed on was the fact that someone needed to be with Horatio all the time to keep Jack from going after him again.
It had worked well enough while Horatio was still recovering from the cracked ribs and bruising. He'd needed someone to carry his books for him because it had hurt too much for him to carry them himself. He hadn't even swum very much, either, mostly paddling very carefully in the shallow end of the pool as Archie swam back and forth across the pool until it was time to go in to breakfast.
Horatio had recovered now, though, able to carry his own books and swim properly once more. Archie was beginning to run out of excuses for his presence and even William was garnering suspicious looks from his roommate. Frederick had joined the effort to keep Horatio protected from Jack. Even his blithe replies and unflappable countenance were received with suspicion now. Archie discussed the problem with Frederick one night before the lights went out. "We can't come out and tell him why we're doing this, Freddy. He'll object and say he can take care of himself."
"Don't call me Freddy," was Frederick's only reply for a moment as he finished what he was working on. Finally, he turned to Archie, "We could, of course, point out that he took such excellent care of himself when Simpson ambushed him."
Archie rolled his eyes, fidgeting with the edge of his blanket. "That would go over very well with Horatio. He'd probably punch whoever makes that comment just to prove that he can take care of himself."
"Perhaps if we were to come up with an innocuous reason for spending time with him," the taller boy suggested thoughtfully, tapping a long finger against his lips.
He frowned, rolling onto his side to look at his friend. "What do you mean?"
"You have several classes with him. Is Horatio struggling in any of them?" Frederick questioned, arching a pale blond eyebrow delicately.
Archie frowned again, considering the question carefully. "I think he's having some trouble in our Shakespeare class. I think the language is throwing him off."
"There's your opening: offer to help Horatio with that." The other boy rose gracefully from his bed to his feet.
Moments later, Mr. Eccleston appeared in the doorway, glancing between the two boys. "Lights out in five minutes, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Edrington."
"Yes, Sir." Archie rolled off the bed and to his feet with in an unconsciously graceful movement. As the deputy headmaster left, Archie began to change for bed.
* * *
"Horatio, can I talk to you?" Archie caught up with his new friend on the way to the dormitories, catching a glimpse of Jack Simpson out of the corner of his eye.
Dark eyes regarded Archie calmly for a moment before the mop of curls bobbed up and down. "Yes, Archie, what is it?"
"Forgive me for pointing this out, but you seem to be having trouble in our Shakespeare class," Archie commented, shifting his books in his arms.
The high cheekbones bloomed with faint color at that and Horatio bowed his head for a moment before answering. "Yes, I'm afraid the language is making it difficult for me to understand what is being said."
"I thought as much." Archie hid a smile. His guess had been dead-on! "Would you like some help understanding the Bard's words?"
Horatio blinked and actually stopped, staring at Archie. "I beg your pardon?"
"I thought you'd like some help understanding what Shakespeare is saying in his plays," he replied with an unconcerned shrug of his shoulders.
The other boy gazed silently at Archie for several moments before continuing on the path to the dormitories. He was silent for so long, in fact, that Archie wondered if he'd offended Horatio. His fear was laid to rest when Horatio sighed softly and nodded, "Yes, I'd like the help."
"Excellent!" Archie grinned; pleased that Frederick's idea had worked. "We'll start tonight."
8. Nerds (200)
Archie had been helping Horatio with his Shakespeare studies for a week before Horatio brought up something that had been on his mind for many weeks now. "Archie?"
"Yes, Horatio?" Archie's bright blue eyes met Horatio's curiously.
He fidgeted with the pages of his book for a couple moments before he found his voice again. "I hope you don't mind me mentioning this, but you don't seem to be doing very well in Calculus."
"That's an understatement," Archie answered blithely, rubbing his forehead.
Encouraged, Horatio continued. "I wondered if you'd like some help with it."
"I'm hopeless at it, 'Ratio. No amount of help is going to change that." The other boy sighed, pressing the heels of his hands against his eyes.
Horatio reached up and caught one of those hands, absently noting the strength of the broad palms and sturdy fingers. "You won't know that unless you accept the help, Archie."
"You're sure?" Those piercing blue eyes gazed into Horatio's dark ones questioningly, hope sparking in their depths.
He nodded, squeezing Archie's hand gently. "Yes, I am. Besides, it's only fair since you're helping me with my Shakespeare."
Archie laughed and nodded. "All right, then."
"Let's start right now."
5. Popular (545)
He wasn't quite sure how it happened, but Horatio found himself spending more and more time with Archie Kennedy. He and William still remained friends, but Archie became his main companion as the school year continued. Their tutoring sessions for Shakespeare and Calculus evolved into chances for them to simply hang out together and talk. They told each other things they'd never shared with anyone else, not with Frederick, who'd been Archie's friend from childhood, or with William.
In spending so much time with Archie, Horatio saw for himself how popular the other boy was. The younger boys would come to him with questions and concerns and, while Horatio would have been brusque with them, Archie took time to listen and offer advice. He also kept candies in his pockets and share it freely with the students who came to him, especially if he didn't have any answers for them, as if the candy would make up for it.
Seeing all this, Horatio wondered if he was just another student Archie was helping, if he meant no more to the other boy than someone in need of help. One day, Archie came upon Horatio while he was thinking of this. "'Ratio, are you all right?"
"What? Oh, Archie, hello." Horatio quickly shook off his thoughts, summoning a smile for his best friend.
"You were thinking about something pretty serious, there," Archie commented as he sat down beside Horatio on the bench.
"It's nothing, Archie." He waved it off and quickly opened one of his books, staring at the page, hoping his friend would get the hint and leave.
The only response he received was an amused snort of laughter. "If you want to get rid of me, 'Ratio, you need to read the book right-side up and front to back."
"Very funny." Horatio snapped the book shut and returned it to the stack of books beside him.
Archie gazed at him, surprised. "Is something wrong, 'Ratio?"
"I told you, Archie, it's nothing." He folded his arms across his chest, determinedly not looking at his friend.
Since he wasn't looking at his friend, the touch on his shoulder startled him and he turned to look at Archie. "'Ratio, something's bugging you, I can tell. What is it?"
"Are we friends?" he blurted out before he stopped to think and promptly scowled.
Archie blinked, surprised by the question. "Yes, of course we are, 'Ratio. I don't make it a habit to hang out with people I don't like."
"I don't mean just casually," Horatio explained, glancing down at his lap, watching his hands clasp and unclasp themselves as if he had no control over them.
There was a sigh from the other boy. "We've shared secrets with each other that we've never told anyone, 'Ratio. What do you think?"
"You're not just my friend because I needed help with my Shakespeare?" He lifted his head to look closely at the other boy.
Archie shook his head, his russet-gold hair falling into his eyes. "No, not just because of that, 'Ratio. It started from there, but that's not the reason I'm still your friend."
Horatio studied Archie's face carefully, looking for signs that he was lying. He saw none and finally smiled. "I'm glad you're my friend, Archie."
10. Dances (287)
Horatio hated dances. He'd hoped to be done with them when he attended a boys' school, but he wasn't so lucky. Justinian's had partnered with the girls' school nearby, Miss Wharfedale's School for Young Ladies, and arranged a dance for the students of both schools to attend. According to the boys who'd attended Justinian's for more than a year, the two schools had been doing this for years. It was a tradition.
In any case, Horatio managed to avoid dancing with any of the girls. A few tried to get him to dance (Mariette, Maria, and Barbara), but he excused himself by claiming a sprained ankle. He much preferred sitting at the table with Archie, William, and Frederick. One by one, though, the other boys were coerced onto the dance floor, leaving Horatio by himself at the table.
Deciding it was too warm in the ballroom where the dance was being held, Horatio left to get a breath of fresh air. He'd just glimpsed the moon when something smacked into the back of his head, sending him tumbling into blackness.
* * *
Archie frowned as he approached the table where Horatio had been sitting. It was empty now. "Archie? Are you all right?"
"I'm fine, William." He smiled faintly at the other boy. "Did you see 'Ratio leave the room?"
William shook his head, brushing back the brown curls that fell into his pale eyes. "No, he was still at the table when I last saw him."
"I did, though," Frederick added, appearing at William's shoulder. He indicated one of the doors. "He went that way."
Hoping the worry he was feeling was unfounded; Archie led the other two boys through the door Frederick had indicated.
4. Crush (528)
Hours later, Archie sat beside Horatio's bed in the Infirmary at Justinian's. Dr. Hepplewhite had sent William and Frederick to their rooms in the dormitories, but Archie refused to budge from his friend's side. After finding their friend crumpled in a heap on the ground, William had left to get the doctor while Archie and Frederick searched the nearby for hints as to who'd attacked Horatio. They'd found none and Archie had berated himself for not staying with Horatio. Frederick had mildly pointed out that they couldn't keep Horatio safe forever.
In the end, they'd simply sat waiting for Dr. Hepplewhite to arrive, William right behind him. After checking Horatio quickly, the doctor sent William and Frederick to get his assistants, Ben Matthews and Matthew Styles, who were on call at the Infirmary. Once the two older men arrived, they lifted Horatio onto a stretcher and carried him to the van, which had been converted into an ambulance of sorts. Archie climbed in the back with his friend and the doctor. William promised to contact Horatio's father before Matthews and Styles closed the van doors.
Archie had been in the waiting room when Frederick and William arrived, waiting for Dr. Hepplewhite to finish tending to Horatio. After what seemed like forever but was really perhaps a few minutes, the three boys had been allowed in to see their friend. Archie had sunk into the chair by the bed and not moved from it since, not even when Dr. Hornblower arrived to see his son. Archie had watched quietly as the doctor examined his son, gently brushing a hand over the ebony curls when he'd finished.
Nodding to Archie, Dr. Hornblower left to speak with Dr. Hepplewhite, leaving Archie alone with his thoughts. The main one was the fact that his feelings for Horatio were more than simple friendship. He saw that now. Somehow, he'd become very fond of the other boy. He wondered if Dr. Hornblower would take Horatio out of Justinian's and fervently hoped not. It wouldn't be the same without Horatio.
Gently stroking Horatio's hand, Archie decided it would be best if he hid his newly-discovered feelings from his friend. He had no idea if Horatio liked men, women, or both. It was something they'd never really discussed. Regardless, Archie didn't want to pressure his friend, so he resolved to not speak of his feelings unless he saw any hint that Horatio might return them. It would be better for both of them that way.
His thoughts were interrupted by a soft sound from the bed and he leaned forward, watching Horatio's face intently. "'Ratio? Can you hear me?" Slowly, the dark eyes fluttered open and met Archie's blue ones. A smile slowly appeared, the beauty of it causing Archie's breath to catch in his throat. Horatio's emotions unguarded for once, Archie could see in his eyes that there was no need for him to hide his affection. It was requited. Smiling in return, he squeezed Horatio's hand gently. Though the dark eyes fluttered closed almost immediately, Archie was encouraged to feel Horatio's hand tighten around his for just a moment. Everything would be all right.
9. Honors (344)
Just over a year later, Archie listened proudly as Horatio gave his valedictorian speech. Jack Simpson had been caught smoking pot not long after the dance and had been expelled for it. Archie, William, and Frederick had worked together to teach Horatio self-defense anyway. Just because Jack was gone didn't mean that there weren't other bullies who might go after Horatio. Besides, it meant that Horatio didn't need one of the others with him all the time any longer, a fact that had begun to annoy him after several months of almost constant company.
After a long talk among the four of them, it was decided that the rooming arrangements would remain the same for the rest of the school year. For their senior year, the four boys requested a suite, with Archie and Horatio sharing one bedroom while Frederick and William shared the other bedroom. It worked out rather well, actually, because the four of them could change who was sleeping in which room depending on their moods.
On this day, however, the four of them were closing one chapter of their lives before opening a new one. Archie and Horatio had been accepted to Harvard while William and Frederick planned to attend Yale. The four had promised to keep in touch, but Archie was aware that promise might not hold. Archie gazed steadily at Horatio on the stage, nodding whenever the brown eyes flitted in his direction. So long as they were together, nothing else mattered.
Once Archie's family found them first, Hyacinth hugging Horatio as tightly as she did her son, meaning both were gasping for breath when Dr. Hornblower arrived to congratulate them. William and Frederick soon arrived with their families in tow. Together, they trooped out of the stadium to go out to dinner and celebrate. Archie and Horatio walked side by side in the middle of the group, their clasped hands hidden by the billow of their graduation robes. They didn't know what the future had in store for them, but they were going to face it together.
Ten Years Later, at Henry Percy Preparatory School
1. Teachers (572)
Archie had never expected to be a teacher, but what else could he do with a bachelor's in English Literature and a Master's in Shakespeare Studies? Horatio, apparently coming to a similar conclusion regarding his degrees in Math and Applied Mathematics, also chose to become a teacher. Henry Percy Preparatory School had hired them in the end, with the understanding that their interactions in front of the students and at school functions be strictly professional. Their condition had been that they be allowed to live near the school in a cozy cottage that Archie had christened their Nest.
Their first year hadn't been entirely smooth, but they adapted and spent many companionable evenings grading papers or preparing lessons. Much to Horatio's displeasure, teachers were required to be at the dances to act as chaperones, especially since Henry Percy was a coed prep school. The boys and girls would be more inclined to sneak off since they took classes together and saw each other more frequently.
From his place beside Horatio at the back of the room, Archie watched as a sophomore student named John Hammond, the nephew of one of the other teachers, made his way outside, presumably to escape the stifling air of the room. A senior student whom Archie knew was a bully followed him a short time later. Glancing up at his companion, Archie received a simple nod. Without further communication, they exited the room themselves. They exited in time to see the senior student punch the younger student.
Archie stepped forward and caught the bully's wrist when he prepared for another punch. The bully's eyes widened when he saw who'd stopped him, the blood draining from his face. "The Headmaster will hear of this, Mr. Wolfe. You know Mr. Pellew doesn't take kindly to bullies."
"I didn't mean anything, Mr. Kennedy," Thomas replied, his arm dropping to his side when Archie released his wrist.
"Of course you didn't, Mr. Wolfe," Horatio answered sarcastically, his hand resting on the other student's shoulder. "I'm sure your attack on Mr. Hammond is perfectly justifiable."
Glancing between the two teachers, Thomas slowly shook his head. "That's what I thought." Archie shook his own head, disgusted. "Go to your room, Mr. Wolfe. Your conduct just now is proof that you don't deserve to attend this dance."
"Yes, Sir." Thomas glared at the other student before turning and stalking off into the darkness.
Just as Horatio was about to address the other boy, a third one burst through the doors. "Jack! There you are!"
"I'm fine, Charles," John replied, managing a smile despite the fact that his left eye was almost completely shut thanks to the black eye Thomas had given him.
Charles peered closely at his friend. "You're hurt! Did Wolfe do this?"
"Yes, Charles, but Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Hornblower stopped him before he could do more than punch me," John answered calmly, catching his friend's hand when he tried to examine the black eye.
As the two boys talked, Archie and Horatio wisely returned to the dance. "That sounds familiar, don't you think?"
"Yes, Archie. Mr. Hammond is lucky to have Mr. Orrock as a friend. Just as I was lucky to have you." Horatio's eyes were warm as he glanced at his friend. "I'm still lucky, to tell the truth."
Warmth filled Archie's breast at the oblique compliment from his dearest friend. "We're both lucky, 'Ratio."
"Yes, we are, Archie."
End
Author's Note2: I looked up Hotspur on Wikipedia and learned that it was the nickname of the oldest son of the 1st Earl of Northumberland. You can read more here. For the people who aren't familiar with Horatio Hornblower, the first ship Horatio serves on is the Justinian and his first, real, command is the Hotspur.
Pairing/Characters: Archie, Horatio, Edrington, Bowles, Bush, Simpson, Eccelston, Keene, Hepplewhite, Matthews, Styles, Wolfe, Jack Hammond, Orrock, Pellew; Archie/Horatio
Rating: PG-13 for some violence
Fandom: Horatio Hornblower
Theme set: High School
Summary: There's a new boy at Justinian's and Archie befriends him.
Notes/Warnings: The idea came to me before I found the community. After I did, however, it seemed fitting that I sign up. It took me awhile to actually sit down and figure out what to do, but here it is at last. I hope it's all right that I used the prompts out of order. It helped me tell the story better. Keep in mind that this is set in America in the current time period. Enjoy! Beta by mylodon.
At Justinian's Academy For Young Men
7. Sports (624)
Archie Kennedy always went for a swim in the mornings. It helped him clear his head and prepare for the day ahead. It was just him in the water and no one else. He'd started the habit as a little boy, when the only time he could be by himself was in the mornings, when his five brothers and sisters and his parents were all asleep.
He'd slip out of bed and change into his swim trunks, making sure he didn't disturb his brothers. Then he'd nip downstairs, skipping the stair that creaked, and grab a towel from the linen closet before he slipped out the back door. The dogs would always come over to have their ears rubbed and Archie always obliged them. If he didn't, they'd start whining and he ran the risk of them waking up the family. Then he'd pull of his T-shirt and slip into the water with barely a splash.
Now, at prep school, he'd learned how to sneak out of his room without waking up his roommate, and make a dash for the athletics complex. The east door was never locked, so he was able to sneak in that way. He'd change into his swim trunks in the locker room and take a quick cold shower before out to the pool and slipping in.
As he finished a sprint across the pool, a quiet 'sploosh' caught his attention. Another boy had slipped into the water on the other side of the pool, the early morning sun gleaming on a mop of ebony curls. Before Archie could get a good look, the other boy had disappeared under the surface of the water. Feeling small waves sway him as the stranger swum through the water, Archie stayed where he was. The boy surfaced in the lane next to Archie's, tossing his head to shake his sodden curls out of his eyes. He opened them moments later, brown eyes meeting Archie's blue ones shyly. Archie smiled warmly in reply and the dark-haired boy brightened.
Seized by a mischievous impulse, Archie indicated the lanes they were in and tilted his head in silent inquiry. The other boy frowned for a moment, puzzled, before realization dawned and he nodded, miming the freestyle stroke. Archie nodded back and they positioned themselves. When they had done so, he counted down and they launched themselves across the pool, swimming furiously. He could dimly feel the waves from the other boy's progress through the water, but he focused only on reaching the other side of the pool.
Tapping the wall at long last, he started treading water. Wiping it from his eyes, he looked around to find the other boy already treading water and looking smug. Archie narrowed his eyes and pretended to pout. The other boy's smirk widened. He nodded his head at the opposite side of the pool and mimed the breast stroke this time. Archie nodded and help up two fingers to indicate two laps rather than one. He received a nod in reply and they assumed their starting positions. The other boy counted down and they set off again.
This time, Archie won the race. The two boys raced each other several more times, using a different stroke each time, before they climbed out and headed to the locker room. They showered and dressed quickly in order to get to breakfast on time. It wasn't until they'd separated in the dining hall that Archie realized that they'd never formally introduced themselves. He shrugged and slipped into his seat beside his roommate, Frederick Edrington. They'd have a chance to introduce themselves some other time. It's not like Justinian's was a very big school, after all. A new face would be easy to spot.
2. Students (252)
When Archie entered his first class that day, he found his impromptu swimming companion sitting near Mr. Bowles' desk. The other boy's dark eyes widened when he saw Archie, but his surprise was soon replaced by a shy smile. Archie smiled brightly in return and hurried to his desk. As the other students filed in, Archie pulled out his homework assignment that was to be turned in that day, not sure if he'd done it at all correctly, but glad to have at least attempted.
Once all the students had arrived and settled into their seats, Mr. Bowles stood to address them. "As most of you have no doubt noticed, we have a new student." He indicated the dark-haired boy, who rose awkwardly to his seat, barely raising his dark eyes to meet the avid stares of the other boys. "Horatio Hornblower--" despite the chorus of suppressed snickers and snorts that greeted his words, Mr. Bowles pressed on, "--has just transferred to Justinian's from a public school. I trust you will make him feel welcome here."
At a nod from Mr. Bowles, Horatio took the empty seat next to Archie's, his cheeks bright red. Taking pity on the other boy's embarrassment and discomfiture, Archie reached across the aisle and patted his hand comfortingly. Horatio's head snapped around and he glanced at Archie questioningly. His only response was a reassuring smile. Horatio smiled weakly in reply and they turned their attention back to Mr. Bowles as he began the day's lesson.
6. Loner (1,104)
Horatio had been at Justinian's for two weeks and the only friends he'd managed to make so far were his roommate, William Bush, and his morning swim companion, Archie Kennedy. The former was calm, steady, and patient with Horatio's reticence. The latter was gregarious, cheeky, and cheerful. Horatio had no idea why either of the other boys spent time with him, but they prevented him from being terribly lonely, a fact for which he was very grateful.
His mother had died when he was young and his father had never re-married, raising him alone. None of the other boys his age had wanted to be playmates with a bookish, reserved boy like Horatio, so he'd spent much of his childhood alone, long nose buried in one book or another. His father had insisted that he take up a sport of some kind to stay fit, so he'd chosen swimming. His lean build had aided him in taking up the sport and he'd determined that he would continue to swim when he started at Justinian's, which was how he'd met Archie.
At the moment, however, Horatio was very much alone. William had had to stay late at the library to do some extra research for a paper. Archie had a meeting with Mr. Bowles about his calculus grade. This left Horatio to walk to the dormitories alone in the deepening twilight, reflecting on the fact that he was still very much alone despite his two new friends. His ruminations were interrupted by a sneering voice, "Hello, Snotty."
Glancing up, Horatio took an involuntary step backwards. He was face-to-face with Jack Simpson, an older student with thin red-blond hair, a sharp nose, cold gray eyes, and a cruel mouth. Despite the greeting, Horatio said nothing. This prompted a sneer from the other boy, who was looking rather smug and arrogant. "What's the matter, Snotty? Lost your tongue now that you're not in class?"
Though a couple years older than Horatio, Jack had been in his calculus class, having flunked it during each of his previous attempts at taking the course. When Jack had missed a rather simple question on Horatio's first day of class, the younger boy had not only corrected Jack's mistake, but also finished the problem correctly quite rapidly, gaining respect from his classmates. As he'd returned to his seat, he'd met Jack's eyes for a moment and the cold hatred he'd seen in those eyes had caused a shiver to trickle down his spine. A similar shiver put in an appearance as Jack sneered at Horatio once more, shoving him backwards a few steps. "Or maybe you don't know anything except math."
Horatio stumbled, but caught himself and turned to face Jack once again, meeting his cold eyes defiantly. The amusement disappeared from the thin face hidden behind the lank hair, leaving behind a twisted, angry expression. Without further warning, Jack backhanded Horatio across the cheek, snapping his head to one side. The coppery taste of blood filled his mouth and Horatio knew he'd split his lip. Spitting out the blood, Horatio faced Jack once again. Anger still twisting his features, Jack punched Horatio, knocking him to the ground. He landed heavily on his hands and knees, the pebbles and gravel scraping his palms and ripping the trousers of his school uniform. Rather than stay down, Horatio attempted to get up and face Jack.
Not bothering to wait for Horatio to be upright, Jack kicked him in the ribs, sending him to the ground once again. Jack continued to rain blows and kicks on Horatio, who made one more attempt to get up before he conceded and rolled into a ball in an attempt to protect himself from the worst of the blows. As he lay there, Horatio dimly wondered if anyone would come or if he would simply have to endure until Jack tired of his sport.
* * *
"What did Mr. Bowles say, Archie?" Frederick asked as the two roommates left the building and headed for the dormitories.
"He said I can do it, I just have a block on the concepts and need help getting past it." Archie rolled his eyes as he said this, exasperated.
The other boy shrugged. "I'd offer to help, but math has never been a strong subject for me."
"I know and I thank you for the thought." Archie patted his roommate's shoulder with a smile.
Frederick opened his mouth to reply, but a familiar voice from further down the path forestalled him. "Come on, Snotty. You can do more than curl up like a baby!"
"Simpson." Frederick's lip curled disdainfully. "Sounds like he found a new victim now that you've stood up to him, Archie."
Archie sighed, breaking into a trot. "That doesn't mean we can't help. Come on."
He heard Frederick follow him, commenting quietly, "I didn't say that we shouldn't help."
Archie drew in a sharp breath when he saw Simpson raining blows on someone curled up on the ground, clearly making no attempts to get away or fight back. Summoning his courage and gathering his voice, Archie bellowed, "Simpson! What are you doing?"
The older boy glanced up at Archie's shout, a sneer curling his lips, though Archie was sure she saw a flash of apprehension in the gray eyes. "What does it look like I'm doing, Kennedy?"
"Beating up someone who's not even fighting back," Archie retorted, inwardly flinching when he recognized Jack's victim as he came to a halt facing the taller boy, folding his arms across his broad chest.
"What business is it of yours if I am?" Jack taunted, nudging Horatio sharply, causing the other boy to groan pitifully, his body attempting to curl into a tighter ball. Jack laughed at that, cruel, mocking laughter that would have sent shivers down Archie's spine a year ago.
"I'll tell Mr. Keene," Archie threatened as Frederick finally came to a stop by his side, gazing coolly and contemptuously at Jack. Though younger than the other boy, Frederick had never been one to be bullied or intimidated by anyone, even when he and Archie had played together when they were little.
Jack laughed derisively. "As if the old ass would do anything about it! He cares more about his aches and pains than this school."
"Fine, I'll go to Mr. Eccleston, then," Archie countered without missing a beat.
That shut the other boy up. Glowering darkly, he kicked Horatio one last time before slinking away into the darkness. Sighing heavily, Archie dropped to his knees beside his newest friend to see how badly he was hurt, Frederick lingering nearby.
3. Drama (738)
Frederick had gone to get Dr. Hepplewhite, the school physician, while Archie had remained with Horatio, unwilling to move the other boy and risk aggravating his injuries. William had happened on them shortly after Frederick left and been horrified to hear what had happened. He had regretted staying in the library instead of going with Horatio, but Archie had reminded him that they couldn't have known Jack would ambush Horatio. One thing they'd agreed on was the fact that someone needed to be with Horatio all the time to keep Jack from going after him again.
It had worked well enough while Horatio was still recovering from the cracked ribs and bruising. He'd needed someone to carry his books for him because it had hurt too much for him to carry them himself. He hadn't even swum very much, either, mostly paddling very carefully in the shallow end of the pool as Archie swam back and forth across the pool until it was time to go in to breakfast.
Horatio had recovered now, though, able to carry his own books and swim properly once more. Archie was beginning to run out of excuses for his presence and even William was garnering suspicious looks from his roommate. Frederick had joined the effort to keep Horatio protected from Jack. Even his blithe replies and unflappable countenance were received with suspicion now. Archie discussed the problem with Frederick one night before the lights went out. "We can't come out and tell him why we're doing this, Freddy. He'll object and say he can take care of himself."
"Don't call me Freddy," was Frederick's only reply for a moment as he finished what he was working on. Finally, he turned to Archie, "We could, of course, point out that he took such excellent care of himself when Simpson ambushed him."
Archie rolled his eyes, fidgeting with the edge of his blanket. "That would go over very well with Horatio. He'd probably punch whoever makes that comment just to prove that he can take care of himself."
"Perhaps if we were to come up with an innocuous reason for spending time with him," the taller boy suggested thoughtfully, tapping a long finger against his lips.
He frowned, rolling onto his side to look at his friend. "What do you mean?"
"You have several classes with him. Is Horatio struggling in any of them?" Frederick questioned, arching a pale blond eyebrow delicately.
Archie frowned again, considering the question carefully. "I think he's having some trouble in our Shakespeare class. I think the language is throwing him off."
"There's your opening: offer to help Horatio with that." The other boy rose gracefully from his bed to his feet.
Moments later, Mr. Eccleston appeared in the doorway, glancing between the two boys. "Lights out in five minutes, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Edrington."
"Yes, Sir." Archie rolled off the bed and to his feet with in an unconsciously graceful movement. As the deputy headmaster left, Archie began to change for bed.
* * *
"Horatio, can I talk to you?" Archie caught up with his new friend on the way to the dormitories, catching a glimpse of Jack Simpson out of the corner of his eye.
Dark eyes regarded Archie calmly for a moment before the mop of curls bobbed up and down. "Yes, Archie, what is it?"
"Forgive me for pointing this out, but you seem to be having trouble in our Shakespeare class," Archie commented, shifting his books in his arms.
The high cheekbones bloomed with faint color at that and Horatio bowed his head for a moment before answering. "Yes, I'm afraid the language is making it difficult for me to understand what is being said."
"I thought as much." Archie hid a smile. His guess had been dead-on! "Would you like some help understanding the Bard's words?"
Horatio blinked and actually stopped, staring at Archie. "I beg your pardon?"
"I thought you'd like some help understanding what Shakespeare is saying in his plays," he replied with an unconcerned shrug of his shoulders.
The other boy gazed silently at Archie for several moments before continuing on the path to the dormitories. He was silent for so long, in fact, that Archie wondered if he'd offended Horatio. His fear was laid to rest when Horatio sighed softly and nodded, "Yes, I'd like the help."
"Excellent!" Archie grinned; pleased that Frederick's idea had worked. "We'll start tonight."
8. Nerds (200)
Archie had been helping Horatio with his Shakespeare studies for a week before Horatio brought up something that had been on his mind for many weeks now. "Archie?"
"Yes, Horatio?" Archie's bright blue eyes met Horatio's curiously.
He fidgeted with the pages of his book for a couple moments before he found his voice again. "I hope you don't mind me mentioning this, but you don't seem to be doing very well in Calculus."
"That's an understatement," Archie answered blithely, rubbing his forehead.
Encouraged, Horatio continued. "I wondered if you'd like some help with it."
"I'm hopeless at it, 'Ratio. No amount of help is going to change that." The other boy sighed, pressing the heels of his hands against his eyes.
Horatio reached up and caught one of those hands, absently noting the strength of the broad palms and sturdy fingers. "You won't know that unless you accept the help, Archie."
"You're sure?" Those piercing blue eyes gazed into Horatio's dark ones questioningly, hope sparking in their depths.
He nodded, squeezing Archie's hand gently. "Yes, I am. Besides, it's only fair since you're helping me with my Shakespeare."
Archie laughed and nodded. "All right, then."
"Let's start right now."
5. Popular (545)
He wasn't quite sure how it happened, but Horatio found himself spending more and more time with Archie Kennedy. He and William still remained friends, but Archie became his main companion as the school year continued. Their tutoring sessions for Shakespeare and Calculus evolved into chances for them to simply hang out together and talk. They told each other things they'd never shared with anyone else, not with Frederick, who'd been Archie's friend from childhood, or with William.
In spending so much time with Archie, Horatio saw for himself how popular the other boy was. The younger boys would come to him with questions and concerns and, while Horatio would have been brusque with them, Archie took time to listen and offer advice. He also kept candies in his pockets and share it freely with the students who came to him, especially if he didn't have any answers for them, as if the candy would make up for it.
Seeing all this, Horatio wondered if he was just another student Archie was helping, if he meant no more to the other boy than someone in need of help. One day, Archie came upon Horatio while he was thinking of this. "'Ratio, are you all right?"
"What? Oh, Archie, hello." Horatio quickly shook off his thoughts, summoning a smile for his best friend.
"You were thinking about something pretty serious, there," Archie commented as he sat down beside Horatio on the bench.
"It's nothing, Archie." He waved it off and quickly opened one of his books, staring at the page, hoping his friend would get the hint and leave.
The only response he received was an amused snort of laughter. "If you want to get rid of me, 'Ratio, you need to read the book right-side up and front to back."
"Very funny." Horatio snapped the book shut and returned it to the stack of books beside him.
Archie gazed at him, surprised. "Is something wrong, 'Ratio?"
"I told you, Archie, it's nothing." He folded his arms across his chest, determinedly not looking at his friend.
Since he wasn't looking at his friend, the touch on his shoulder startled him and he turned to look at Archie. "'Ratio, something's bugging you, I can tell. What is it?"
"Are we friends?" he blurted out before he stopped to think and promptly scowled.
Archie blinked, surprised by the question. "Yes, of course we are, 'Ratio. I don't make it a habit to hang out with people I don't like."
"I don't mean just casually," Horatio explained, glancing down at his lap, watching his hands clasp and unclasp themselves as if he had no control over them.
There was a sigh from the other boy. "We've shared secrets with each other that we've never told anyone, 'Ratio. What do you think?"
"You're not just my friend because I needed help with my Shakespeare?" He lifted his head to look closely at the other boy.
Archie shook his head, his russet-gold hair falling into his eyes. "No, not just because of that, 'Ratio. It started from there, but that's not the reason I'm still your friend."
Horatio studied Archie's face carefully, looking for signs that he was lying. He saw none and finally smiled. "I'm glad you're my friend, Archie."
10. Dances (287)
Horatio hated dances. He'd hoped to be done with them when he attended a boys' school, but he wasn't so lucky. Justinian's had partnered with the girls' school nearby, Miss Wharfedale's School for Young Ladies, and arranged a dance for the students of both schools to attend. According to the boys who'd attended Justinian's for more than a year, the two schools had been doing this for years. It was a tradition.
In any case, Horatio managed to avoid dancing with any of the girls. A few tried to get him to dance (Mariette, Maria, and Barbara), but he excused himself by claiming a sprained ankle. He much preferred sitting at the table with Archie, William, and Frederick. One by one, though, the other boys were coerced onto the dance floor, leaving Horatio by himself at the table.
Deciding it was too warm in the ballroom where the dance was being held, Horatio left to get a breath of fresh air. He'd just glimpsed the moon when something smacked into the back of his head, sending him tumbling into blackness.
* * *
Archie frowned as he approached the table where Horatio had been sitting. It was empty now. "Archie? Are you all right?"
"I'm fine, William." He smiled faintly at the other boy. "Did you see 'Ratio leave the room?"
William shook his head, brushing back the brown curls that fell into his pale eyes. "No, he was still at the table when I last saw him."
"I did, though," Frederick added, appearing at William's shoulder. He indicated one of the doors. "He went that way."
Hoping the worry he was feeling was unfounded; Archie led the other two boys through the door Frederick had indicated.
4. Crush (528)
Hours later, Archie sat beside Horatio's bed in the Infirmary at Justinian's. Dr. Hepplewhite had sent William and Frederick to their rooms in the dormitories, but Archie refused to budge from his friend's side. After finding their friend crumpled in a heap on the ground, William had left to get the doctor while Archie and Frederick searched the nearby for hints as to who'd attacked Horatio. They'd found none and Archie had berated himself for not staying with Horatio. Frederick had mildly pointed out that they couldn't keep Horatio safe forever.
In the end, they'd simply sat waiting for Dr. Hepplewhite to arrive, William right behind him. After checking Horatio quickly, the doctor sent William and Frederick to get his assistants, Ben Matthews and Matthew Styles, who were on call at the Infirmary. Once the two older men arrived, they lifted Horatio onto a stretcher and carried him to the van, which had been converted into an ambulance of sorts. Archie climbed in the back with his friend and the doctor. William promised to contact Horatio's father before Matthews and Styles closed the van doors.
Archie had been in the waiting room when Frederick and William arrived, waiting for Dr. Hepplewhite to finish tending to Horatio. After what seemed like forever but was really perhaps a few minutes, the three boys had been allowed in to see their friend. Archie had sunk into the chair by the bed and not moved from it since, not even when Dr. Hornblower arrived to see his son. Archie had watched quietly as the doctor examined his son, gently brushing a hand over the ebony curls when he'd finished.
Nodding to Archie, Dr. Hornblower left to speak with Dr. Hepplewhite, leaving Archie alone with his thoughts. The main one was the fact that his feelings for Horatio were more than simple friendship. He saw that now. Somehow, he'd become very fond of the other boy. He wondered if Dr. Hornblower would take Horatio out of Justinian's and fervently hoped not. It wouldn't be the same without Horatio.
Gently stroking Horatio's hand, Archie decided it would be best if he hid his newly-discovered feelings from his friend. He had no idea if Horatio liked men, women, or both. It was something they'd never really discussed. Regardless, Archie didn't want to pressure his friend, so he resolved to not speak of his feelings unless he saw any hint that Horatio might return them. It would be better for both of them that way.
His thoughts were interrupted by a soft sound from the bed and he leaned forward, watching Horatio's face intently. "'Ratio? Can you hear me?" Slowly, the dark eyes fluttered open and met Archie's blue ones. A smile slowly appeared, the beauty of it causing Archie's breath to catch in his throat. Horatio's emotions unguarded for once, Archie could see in his eyes that there was no need for him to hide his affection. It was requited. Smiling in return, he squeezed Horatio's hand gently. Though the dark eyes fluttered closed almost immediately, Archie was encouraged to feel Horatio's hand tighten around his for just a moment. Everything would be all right.
9. Honors (344)
Just over a year later, Archie listened proudly as Horatio gave his valedictorian speech. Jack Simpson had been caught smoking pot not long after the dance and had been expelled for it. Archie, William, and Frederick had worked together to teach Horatio self-defense anyway. Just because Jack was gone didn't mean that there weren't other bullies who might go after Horatio. Besides, it meant that Horatio didn't need one of the others with him all the time any longer, a fact that had begun to annoy him after several months of almost constant company.
After a long talk among the four of them, it was decided that the rooming arrangements would remain the same for the rest of the school year. For their senior year, the four boys requested a suite, with Archie and Horatio sharing one bedroom while Frederick and William shared the other bedroom. It worked out rather well, actually, because the four of them could change who was sleeping in which room depending on their moods.
On this day, however, the four of them were closing one chapter of their lives before opening a new one. Archie and Horatio had been accepted to Harvard while William and Frederick planned to attend Yale. The four had promised to keep in touch, but Archie was aware that promise might not hold. Archie gazed steadily at Horatio on the stage, nodding whenever the brown eyes flitted in his direction. So long as they were together, nothing else mattered.
Once Archie's family found them first, Hyacinth hugging Horatio as tightly as she did her son, meaning both were gasping for breath when Dr. Hornblower arrived to congratulate them. William and Frederick soon arrived with their families in tow. Together, they trooped out of the stadium to go out to dinner and celebrate. Archie and Horatio walked side by side in the middle of the group, their clasped hands hidden by the billow of their graduation robes. They didn't know what the future had in store for them, but they were going to face it together.
Ten Years Later, at Henry Percy Preparatory School
1. Teachers (572)
Archie had never expected to be a teacher, but what else could he do with a bachelor's in English Literature and a Master's in Shakespeare Studies? Horatio, apparently coming to a similar conclusion regarding his degrees in Math and Applied Mathematics, also chose to become a teacher. Henry Percy Preparatory School had hired them in the end, with the understanding that their interactions in front of the students and at school functions be strictly professional. Their condition had been that they be allowed to live near the school in a cozy cottage that Archie had christened their Nest.
Their first year hadn't been entirely smooth, but they adapted and spent many companionable evenings grading papers or preparing lessons. Much to Horatio's displeasure, teachers were required to be at the dances to act as chaperones, especially since Henry Percy was a coed prep school. The boys and girls would be more inclined to sneak off since they took classes together and saw each other more frequently.
From his place beside Horatio at the back of the room, Archie watched as a sophomore student named John Hammond, the nephew of one of the other teachers, made his way outside, presumably to escape the stifling air of the room. A senior student whom Archie knew was a bully followed him a short time later. Glancing up at his companion, Archie received a simple nod. Without further communication, they exited the room themselves. They exited in time to see the senior student punch the younger student.
Archie stepped forward and caught the bully's wrist when he prepared for another punch. The bully's eyes widened when he saw who'd stopped him, the blood draining from his face. "The Headmaster will hear of this, Mr. Wolfe. You know Mr. Pellew doesn't take kindly to bullies."
"I didn't mean anything, Mr. Kennedy," Thomas replied, his arm dropping to his side when Archie released his wrist.
"Of course you didn't, Mr. Wolfe," Horatio answered sarcastically, his hand resting on the other student's shoulder. "I'm sure your attack on Mr. Hammond is perfectly justifiable."
Glancing between the two teachers, Thomas slowly shook his head. "That's what I thought." Archie shook his own head, disgusted. "Go to your room, Mr. Wolfe. Your conduct just now is proof that you don't deserve to attend this dance."
"Yes, Sir." Thomas glared at the other student before turning and stalking off into the darkness.
Just as Horatio was about to address the other boy, a third one burst through the doors. "Jack! There you are!"
"I'm fine, Charles," John replied, managing a smile despite the fact that his left eye was almost completely shut thanks to the black eye Thomas had given him.
Charles peered closely at his friend. "You're hurt! Did Wolfe do this?"
"Yes, Charles, but Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Hornblower stopped him before he could do more than punch me," John answered calmly, catching his friend's hand when he tried to examine the black eye.
As the two boys talked, Archie and Horatio wisely returned to the dance. "That sounds familiar, don't you think?"
"Yes, Archie. Mr. Hammond is lucky to have Mr. Orrock as a friend. Just as I was lucky to have you." Horatio's eyes were warm as he glanced at his friend. "I'm still lucky, to tell the truth."
Warmth filled Archie's breast at the oblique compliment from his dearest friend. "We're both lucky, 'Ratio."
"Yes, we are, Archie."
End
Author's Note2: I looked up Hotspur on Wikipedia and learned that it was the nickname of the oldest son of the 1st Earl of Northumberland. You can read more here. For the people who aren't familiar with Horatio Hornblower, the first ship Horatio serves on is the Justinian and his first, real, command is the Hotspur.