This is based on the movie Alexander, or more accurately, scenes I wish they had shown! I do not own the story or any of the characters, though if I could...I would love to own the beautiful Hephaestion!

Summary: A Bored Alexander is a dangerous thing. Trouble ensues.

Ratings: T on this one

Let's let our boys have a little fun today

Chapter Seven: Joy

It was very early. The orange glow of the sunrise just visible. Alexander leaned on the balcony railing, taking in the beautiful city before him. He felt practically invincible. He turned and went back towards the bed. He smiled as he observed the sleeping form of his most trusted friend. Hephaestion was sprawled on his back, one arm flung over his head. His torso was bare. A fur blanket covered him from just below his navel, barely concealing his manhood. His legs were tangled in the blanket, one of them sticking out. His chest rose and fell, his breathing deep and slow, his sleep untroubled. His lips, swollen and slightly bruised from the previous night's passions, were parted slightly and curved up at the corners so it appeared he was smiling. Faint bruises and marks of passion dotted his neck and shoulders.

Alexander loved watching him like this. He looked so innocent and so beautiful. He truly did take Alexander's breath away.

He sat on the edge of the bed, reached out and stroked Hephaestion's hair lightly, careful not to wake him. Hephaestion stirred briefly then settled back down.

A twinkle in his eye, Alexander decided it was time to play. He plucked a feather from his battle helmet and crept back towards the bed. Ever so lightly, he brushed the tip of Hephaestion's nose with the feather. Hephaestion frowned and rubbed his hand over his nose. Alexander waited until he was sure he hadn't woken him, then tickled his nose with the feather again. Hephaestion gave a grunt of annoyance and swatted at the air, probably assuming it was a bug, Alexander thought. He was pleased that Hephaestion hadn't woken, and chuckled softly to himself.

The ever alert Hephaestion, however, had been awake as soon as the feather touched his nose a second time. The soft chuckle revealed that his "pest" was not an insect, but a certain golden-haired king. He kept his breathing steady and deep so that Alexander would think him to be still asleep. As Alexander leaned over him to try it a third time, Hephaestion struck.

He sat up quickly, grabbed Alexander by the shoulders and threw him down on the bed. Before the king could react, Hephaestion straddled his waist, gripping with his thighs, and pinned his shoulders to the mattress. A triumphant smile graced his face as he gazed down at very startled Alexander.

Alexander squirmed and tried to get up, but Hephaestion held him tight.

Hephaestion laughed. "Have you learned nothing, my king? Must I keep repeating this lesson? Surely you know by now that you will never defeat me." His eyes danced with humor and affection. "Does this mean that I get another prize? I would like to take back my control now. I gave it over to you last night, but since I have beaten you yet again, I reclaim my prize!"

Alexander pretended to be annoyed, but his eyes told another story. He would not be the loser here, no matter who was in charge. "I yield to you, General Hephaestion. I am once again your servant."

They held each others gaze for a moment, all of a sudden acutely aware that neither of them was clothed, and Hephaestion sat straddling his lap. Neither of them moved.

"What is it you desire, my love?" Alexander asked. Hephaestion had released his shoulders, so he reached his hand up and ran a finger along the side of his friend's face. He felt Hephaestion shudder, and felt a tingling in his groin. No matter how long they had known each other, and no matter what the circumstances, it never ceased to amaze him that the sexual tension between them never lessened, even if they had few opportunities to act on it these days.

"My Alexander," Hephaestion purred sweetly, "I would like breakfast". He flashed a brilliant smile and winked.

"By the gods, Hephaestion! What is it with you and food?" He laughed softly. "If that is what you wish, let me up and I will get us something to eat." He washed up quickly, and pulled on a robe and trousers of dark gold. With a smile at his friend, he left the room to seek out their meal, closing the heavy door behind him.

Hephaestion rose from bed, stretching his sore muscles and taking note of a few tender spots where Alexander had bitten him. He was sure there were marks, and knew he would bear the brunt of teasing and nasty remarks from some of the other generals. No matter. He would wear them proudly like a badge of honor. No other could claim this privilege.

After washing himself, he dressed in a simple white chiton and laced on a pair of sandals. He pulled his hair back and secured it with a leather strip. He gathered his crimson colored cloak around him and fastened it with a pin. He wandered out to the balcony. He loved it out here. The view was breathtaking, and the light spring breeze felt wonderful on his skin. He felt totally relaxed and at peace. He wished he had more times like this, but things change and he had accepted that. He settled himself in a chair and propped his feet up on the railing. Last night had been amazing, and he was very much looking forward to a full day in Alexander's company. He sighed and closed his eyes.

Alexander sought out Bagoas and called to him. The eunuch smiled widely, glad that his king needed his services. His face fell, however, when Alexander asked him to gather a tray of food and bring it his room. Bagoas knew Hephaestion was most likely still there. He showed no sign of his displeasure, bowing and backing away, off to the royal kitchens. His eyes stung with tears that he refused to cry.

Alexander returned to his room, finding Hephaestion on the balcony. He sat beside him and enjoyed the sun on his face for a moment. He reached for Hephaestion's hand, lacing his fingers through his.

"What would you like to do today, love? We will do whatever you wish"

Hephaestion sighed, feeling a bit nostalgic. "Could we go for a ride, near the river? Could we just sit on the banks and talk like we used to? I so miss that."

Alexander studied his friends face for a moment then gave a soft smile. "Of course we can. I miss that as well. After breakfast, we shall ride out together."

They heard a knock on the door. "Enter" Alexander commanded.

Bagoas entered the room carrying a tray of fruit, honey cakes, and some roasted fowl. A carafe of pomegranate juice and two bronze cups accompanied the food.

"Bring it out here, Bagoas. Sit it on the stool by my chair please."

Bagoas placed the tray carefully, then filled the cups with the juice. He glanced shyly at Alexander, his dark eyes revealing his affection for his king. "Is there anything else you require of me?" he asked softly.

Alexander patted him on the shoulder. "No Bagoas. Thank you. Go and enjoy your day."

Bagoas kept his face free of emotion as he bowed and backed away, but as he turned to leave his eyes narrowed in hurt and frustration. He sometimes hated Hephaestion. Well, perhaps he didn't hate him, but he was very well aware that he would never be first in Alexander's heart as long as Hephaestion lived. He doubted even death would change that. It was his place in life, and he had to accept it.

Alexander and Hephaestion sat and ate in companionable silence. Hephaestion felt great joy, and Alexander was very much at peace. It had been far too long since they had been able to enjoy a day like this together.

Alexander reached over and tucked a stray strand of hair behind Hephaestion's ear. "Let me go and change into something more practical, then we shall go." Hephaestion simply smiled at him and nodded.

Alexander changed into a short chiton and sandals, dressing exactly like Hephaestion, except his cloak was a deep red with gold thread throughout. He returned to the balcony and extended his hand. "Come, my love. Let us go."

He held Hephaestion's hand until they left the passageway from his room, releasing it before they stepped out into the public street. No one would dare ridicule the king, but Hephaestion would be a target for many. Alexander thought it was bad enough as it was, and he didn't want to worsen it.

They reached the stables and had a groom bring their mounts out to them.

Bucephalus was truly a magnificent animal. His black coat was as sleek and shiny as onyx. His mane and tail were long, slightly wavy, and brushed beautifully. He lowered his head and blew softly through his nostrils at Alexander's approach. Alexander gently stroked the velvety skin of his nose and down the side of his neck. "Greetings my friend", he said to the great stallion. "How would you like to run today?"

The great black horse nodded his head almost as though he understood. Alexander grabbed handful of his mane and swung up onto the powerful horse's back. They would ride bareback, with only a simple bridle, as they did when they were youths.

Hephaestion's mount, a big-bodied red stallion, had been gift from Alexander. They got each other small trinkets from time to time, but this was the only big gift Alexander had publicly given to Hephaestion. The horse nickered softly as his master stroked his neck. He tossed his flaxen mane impatiently and stomped his foot, ready to go. Hephaestion mounted up. He and Alexander exchanged a look and smiled at each other.

"Shall we?" he asked Alexander.

They took off at an easy canter, feeling the warm sun and the breeze. They rode in silence until the river came into view in the distance.

"Catch me, Hephaestion!" Alexander kicked his heels into his mount's side and took off at a dead run. Hephaestion followed suit. They flew across the soft ground towards the river. Neither of them had ever felt so free since their youth in Pella, as if they had no cares in the world. They didn't want it to end. The only sounds were the rush of the wind, the blowing of their horse's breath, and the pounding of hooves.

Truly the gods smiled on them this day.