Lord Chris Sonom (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
chrisisofaith) wrote2020-08-20 12:31 pm
chrisisofaith) wrote2020-08-20 12:31 pm
IC Contact
UN: ravens
You've reached Chris Sonom, previously of Melvaunt Deismyr, please leave a message.
[continued from here]
[Confusion clearly and quickly spread in his expression as well.]
First off...I can't even imagine magic not being a real thing, it's in everything. Even the very nature around us, as any druid would tell you.
Second off, why's a thing that doesn't exist illegal? That doesn't make any sense.
[Confusion clearly and quickly spread in his expression as well.]
First off...I can't even imagine magic not being a real thing, it's in everything. Even the very nature around us, as any druid would tell you.
Second off, why's a thing that doesn't exist illegal? That doesn't make any sense.
Just because something isn't real doesn't mean people can't be afraid of it.
[ That much Diane knows for a fact. ]
We don't have druids in the Land.
[ That much Diane knows for a fact. ]
We don't have druids in the Land.
But...I mean, yeah...just not sure how that kind of law gets passed like: "On the off chance this's ever a thing by some unknown miracle, let's count our eggs now and say you can't do that because it might be bad and scary..."
[He wasn't trying to be rude...but it certainly came out derisive. He just couldn't wrap his head around it. The Moonsea region made magic illegal because it had nearly destroyed the entire area. That made sense, at least.]
[He wasn't trying to be rude...but it certainly came out derisive. He just couldn't wrap his head around it. The Moonsea region made magic illegal because it had nearly destroyed the entire area. That made sense, at least.]
The Kings were overthrown, for the good of the Land.
[ Everyone can agree on that, right? ]
As time faded and their memory grew more distant their advisors took on the position of myth, becoming wizards, their powers growing to be magic. To prove that they were immune from this mythical corruption, the Council of Lords outlawed magic, a purely symbolic gesture.
[ Don't think he's forgiven for being rude though. ]
[ Everyone can agree on that, right? ]
As time faded and their memory grew more distant their advisors took on the position of myth, becoming wizards, their powers growing to be magic. To prove that they were immune from this mythical corruption, the Council of Lords outlawed magic, a purely symbolic gesture.
[ Don't think he's forgiven for being rude though. ]
Oh...huh ok. Makes a bit more sense now.
I'm sorry, I'm...I had to deal with a lot of...really stupid laws in my city when I took over some of that. It was a new level of frustration I hadn't expected.
[No whaling? Ok. No Basalisk poaching when there weren't Basalisks around for a hundred miles? why?]
I'm sorry, I'm...I had to deal with a lot of...really stupid laws in my city when I took over some of that. It was a new level of frustration I hadn't expected.
[No whaling? Ok. No Basalisk poaching when there weren't Basalisks around for a hundred miles? why?]
[ Good, he can learn. that's a good sign for Diane's desire to continue an acquaintanceship with him.
Besides, she's definitely let herself get distracted, and that's less than ideal. ]
You're part of the city leadership, you said. I can imagine there's some level of headache associated with that sort of responsibility. But still, to be separated from it to be here. How are you doing with that?
Besides, she's definitely let herself get distracted, and that's less than ideal. ]
You're part of the city leadership, you said. I can imagine there's some level of headache associated with that sort of responsibility. But still, to be separated from it to be here. How are you doing with that?
[He's terrible at lying and, by extension, terrible at keeping things off his face. Her question causes a flicker of anxiety in his expression and his jaw tightened.]
I'm not thrilled by it, but I know they're all right. The people who help me, they're good ones and I know they'll take care of things.
I hope you don't mind my assuming, but you're clearly a lady of station, are these troubles on your mind?
I'm not thrilled by it, but I know they're all right. The people who help me, they're good ones and I know they'll take care of things.
I hope you don't mind my assuming, but you're clearly a lady of station, are these troubles on your mind?
[ Diane is very good at hiding her thoughts, but in this case she decides not to, so it's a genuine concerns that takes up residence on her features. ]
Some, yes. I'm the Duchess Tremontaine - in my own right, after the illness and death of my husband. My grandson is much too young to take over, but there's really no one else who will look after the good of Tremontaine itself, and the people who work in it.
Some, yes. I'm the Duchess Tremontaine - in my own right, after the illness and death of my husband. My grandson is much too young to take over, but there's really no one else who will look after the good of Tremontaine itself, and the people who work in it.
[Continued from here.]
The idea of that, of soft and slow, sends a renewed shiver through him. The words didn't form, but the idea sunk into the back of his mind for another time.
Another time when his thoughts didn't fizzle and burn and a barely-voluntary cry escaped his lips. His breathing quickened and loud, unashamed and unrestrained moans fled as that tongue worked him. Gods above, he was desperate for it. Luckily, he had a firm belief in letting your partner know such things. Chris arched his hips up for more as his grip tightened in deliciously thick hair.
The idea of that, of soft and slow, sends a renewed shiver through him. The words didn't form, but the idea sunk into the back of his mind for another time.
Another time when his thoughts didn't fizzle and burn and a barely-voluntary cry escaped his lips. His breathing quickened and loud, unashamed and unrestrained moans fled as that tongue worked him. Gods above, he was desperate for it. Luckily, he had a firm belief in letting your partner know such things. Chris arched his hips up for more as his grip tightened in deliciously thick hair.
The Incubus groaned against him as he swirled his tongue around his clit and thrust it inside him a little. There was no denying that this was a mouth with thousands of years of experience here. He certainly had no problem showing it off here as he swirled and licked and sucked and... Was he working on getting the guy to get one off just from oral first? You bet he was.
Honestly it was only fair though. Since he was energized by sex, it wasn't likely he'd pass out from it. Which meant spoiling the hell out of his partners who were going to have a wild day with him.
It was fun for everyone so it wasn't a big deal really.
Honestly it was only fair though. Since he was energized by sex, it wasn't likely he'd pass out from it. Which meant spoiling the hell out of his partners who were going to have a wild day with him.
It was fun for everyone so it wasn't a big deal really.
[He answers from somewhere in the Down, the brick side of Nate's theatre at his back where he'd ducked in to answer. When he sees Lux, naked as ever, his expression brightens immediately into a smile.]
At least that's a good reason for not having clothes, this time. I've always got a minute for you and, this time, an answer. What's on your mind?
At least that's a good reason for not having clothes, this time. I've always got a minute for you and, this time, an answer. What's on your mind?
That sounds about right.
[It's certainly what he's come to expect from Lux, though in an endearing way at this point.]
Me? Really? I mean...yeah, all right, I'd be happy to. Been a bit since I've had a date.
[It's certainly what he's come to expect from Lux, though in an endearing way at this point.]
Me? Really? I mean...yeah, all right, I'd be happy to. Been a bit since I've had a date.
Well, conveniently, I like spending time with you.
Good sir, I am at your disposal at your next opportunity.
Good sir, I am at your disposal at your next opportunity.
[He hadn't considered the look of water beading on Lux's skin, but it might be one he considers in the future.]
I do. All day, as it happens. Where're we headed?
I do. All day, as it happens. Where're we headed?
Oh, a surprise...I am rather fond of those. How about the elevators? That's probably safe enough without finding too much trouble.
[He gave a teasing smile.]
Knowing your terrible clothing allergy, I'll be surprised if you last five minutes.
I'll see you then, Lux. I'm looking forward to it.
Knowing your terrible clothing allergy, I'll be surprised if you last five minutes.
I'll see you then, Lux. I'm looking forward to it.
[Luckily, he's just hanging around his newly empty room in the public housing, so there's privacy too.]
Very smooth, well done. I can do magic, yes. I'm a death cleric. Comes from the goddess of the dead back home. Are they an anti-magic sort?
Very smooth, well done. I can do magic, yes. I'm a death cleric. Comes from the goddess of the dead back home. Are they an anti-magic sort?
Aaah, well I appreciate it. I promise to have you home safe and on time.
[His tone turns from joking to serious, but it's still very fond.]
You know you don't have to do anything fancy, right? I just like spending time with you.
[His tone turns from joking to serious, but it's still very fond.]
You know you don't have to do anything fancy, right? I just like spending time with you.
...alright.
[He laughs. He set himself up for that.]
Well, only if you're good, of course. Now, goodnight.
[He laughs. He set himself up for that.]
Well, only if you're good, of course. Now, goodnight.
[Chris arrives roughly on time, wearing the nicer outfit he’d been able to get from plumage. A small smile was his usual greeting, but seeing Lux waiting there for him brought out something brighter. Something surprisingly easy.
He closed the distance between them and leaned up for a kiss. First thing’s first, of course.
When he pulled back, his grin had turned into a teasing smirk.]
Look at you: actually wearing more'n your skin. I’m in awe.
He closed the distance between them and leaned up for a kiss. First thing’s first, of course.
When he pulled back, his grin had turned into a teasing smirk.]
Look at you: actually wearing more'n your skin. I’m in awe.
[Even once they were walking, Chris leaned into him a bit, his own arm coming around behind Lux's back to grasp at the fabric there. That silly smile was on his face, but he paid it no mind. Maybe it was just his 'Lux smile.'
Though, the mention of the beach has him tightening his hold on the fabric and he looks up at Lux like the sun has just risen because of him.]
The beach? Really?
[He gave a small huff of a laugh.]
I got in trouble cause I kept tryna sneak up here just to go to the beach. Did you ask someone or did you just guess?
[It had to have been a guess, Chris hadn't told anyone but Jon. Unless he'd asked Jon.]
Though, the mention of the beach has him tightening his hold on the fabric and he looks up at Lux like the sun has just risen because of him.]
The beach? Really?
[He gave a small huff of a laugh.]
I got in trouble cause I kept tryna sneak up here just to go to the beach. Did you ask someone or did you just guess?
[It had to have been a guess, Chris hadn't told anyone but Jon. Unless he'd asked Jon.]
[Lux blinks in surprise which really shows off the answer pretty quickly. Soon he bursts out laughing though.]
A really damn good guess honestly. But I'm letting you know now that I'm going to remember the beach thing from now on.
[Because that could be fun for future dates. Which apparently he was already thinking about. Weird.]
I take it you love the beach?
A really damn good guess honestly. But I'm letting you know now that I'm going to remember the beach thing from now on.
[Because that could be fun for future dates. Which apparently he was already thinking about. Weird.]
I take it you love the beach?
[That was almost more charming, really. The accidental nature of it. He would've been happy going almost anywhere, the fact it happened to be his favorite spot in the city was just...nice. Like that same level of comfortable Lux already inspired.]
Then more points to you, lovely.
I don't know about love, but I guess that's the closest thing to it. My home city is a port town on an inland sea. There's so much here that's nothing like home, that's sort of the only place that feels 'normal.'
Do you have a place like that here?
Then more points to you, lovely.
I don't know about love, but I guess that's the closest thing to it. My home city is a port town on an inland sea. There's so much here that's nothing like home, that's sort of the only place that feels 'normal.'
Do you have a place like that here?
[Lux laughs a bit and rubs the back of his neck.]
My room actually. I modeled it after the space my people made for me back in my world. I guess I was missing it so I wanted to have the space be like that.
[Shrugging it off, he changes their direction so that instead of heading to the main beach entrance they're instead heading for a more private area of it.]
My room actually. I modeled it after the space my people made for me back in my world. I guess I was missing it so I wanted to have the space be like that.
[Shrugging it off, he changes their direction so that instead of heading to the main beach entrance they're instead heading for a more private area of it.]
Then I'm extra honored to have been let to see it. Thank you.
[Chris smiled at him, a small but soft thing.]
I'm sure you're thriving here, in you're own way. Like a playground to you? Still, it's not gonna be home, even with that.
[Chris smiled at him, a small but soft thing.]
I'm sure you're thriving here, in you're own way. Like a playground to you? Still, it's not gonna be home, even with that.
You're the first I've told that actually.
[He's had other people in his room before but Chris is the first to actually know the meaning behind it to him. Part of him wonders why he shared that...]
Hm? Oh yeah. Everywhere tastes like home. But it's definitely really different. For one I don't have people all over worshiping the ground I walk on. I mean, I don't miss that but it's weird to not have it.
[Lux laughs then nods ahead of them.]
Our date, good sir.
[And there is a small sail boat just for them. Complete with what looks like the works of a picnic on it. All for them to go around the water and admire the beach and the ocean at the same time.]
[He's had other people in his room before but Chris is the first to actually know the meaning behind it to him. Part of him wonders why he shared that...]
Hm? Oh yeah. Everywhere tastes like home. But it's definitely really different. For one I don't have people all over worshiping the ground I walk on. I mean, I don't miss that but it's weird to not have it.
[Lux laughs then nods ahead of them.]
Our date, good sir.
[And there is a small sail boat just for them. Complete with what looks like the works of a picnic on it. All for them to go around the water and admire the beach and the ocean at the same time.]
[He isn't sure what to do with that right now, other than file it away and acknowledge it puts a flutter in his stomach and a bit of color to his cheeks.
Luckily, the sight of the boat ahead of them puts the thought aside as Chris' face lights up again.]
That's for us? Really? [He gets a wistful look but leans a bit more into Lux's side. The last time a man had said he'd take him away on a boat, that man had vanished.]
She's lovely. You're lovely.
Luckily, the sight of the boat ahead of them puts the thought aside as Chris' face lights up again.]
That's for us? Really? [He gets a wistful look but leans a bit more into Lux's side. The last time a man had said he'd take him away on a boat, that man had vanished.]
She's lovely. You're lovely.
My Dom is letting us borrow it. [Lux grins at him before leading him over to the boat. Stepping into the water a few paces, he jumps up onto it and holds out his hand in offering.]
So since we've got her for the day. How about a picnic on the water? Just you and me?
So since we've got her for the day. How about a picnic on the water? Just you and me?
[Chris admires the boat for a moment, but takes Lux's hand when offered and jumps up into it as well.
For just a moment, there's a vulnerable look of wonder that slips through, then it's gone again when Chris shakes his head with a smile.]
I think hat sounds perfect. Also very romantic.
[He looked around to find something else to point out instead, a flare of excitementpanic roiling through him.]
I hope you know how to work her, she's not quite like boats I'm used to.
For just a moment, there's a vulnerable look of wonder that slips through, then it's gone again when Chris shakes his head with a smile.]
I think hat sounds perfect. Also very romantic.
[He looked around to find something else to point out instead, a flare of excitementpanic roiling through him.]
I hope you know how to work her, she's not quite like boats I'm used to.
[Lux laughs and helps him up to where the picnic is before getting them set sail. Smiling, he lets them float as he comes over to sit with him, stretching out on his side soon after.]
So, you ready for this?
[Leaning over, he gives him a kiss on the cheek.]
I haven't been sailing in years. But this is nice.
So, you ready for this?
[Leaning over, he gives him a kiss on the cheek.]
I haven't been sailing in years. But this is nice.
[Chris settled in, stretching out so he rested back on his elbows to let the sun shine on his face. The kiss has him grinning over at Lux, something playful in his eyes when he shakes his head.]
Probably not, but I'll enjoy it all the same.
[He let his head fall back, eyes closing to just listen to the waves and the sounds of Lux nearby. After a beat he spoke up again.]
I've never been on a boat. Just lived near them and got taught how to make them sail. Melvaunt's waters are too choppy for a beginner with no crew.
Probably not, but I'll enjoy it all the same.
[He let his head fall back, eyes closing to just listen to the waves and the sounds of Lux nearby. After a beat he spoke up again.]
I've never been on a boat. Just lived near them and got taught how to make them sail. Melvaunt's waters are too choppy for a beginner with no crew.
I think I will too.
[Not just because it was Lux, but because sailing meant freedom, meant a chance to leave. Even if it wasn't true here, it still held that association.
He took some of the food with a nodded thank you and sat up a bit more.]
So...you don't have to answer the question if you don't want to, I'll never take aoffense to that, for the record, but why the sudden date?
[The urge to make a joke, to take the slight edge off the question was there, but he resisted. He was asking earnestly when most of their interactions had been sex or even just talking...but he also didn't intend to push if there wasn't much of an answer waiting for him.]
[Not just because it was Lux, but because sailing meant freedom, meant a chance to leave. Even if it wasn't true here, it still held that association.
He took some of the food with a nodded thank you and sat up a bit more.]
So...you don't have to answer the question if you don't want to, I'll never take aoffense to that, for the record, but why the sudden date?
[The urge to make a joke, to take the slight edge off the question was there, but he resisted. He was asking earnestly when most of their interactions had been sex or even just talking...but he also didn't intend to push if there wasn't much of an answer waiting for him.]
[He's eating a bit of fruit when Chris asks his question. Lux actually takes the time to think about his answer, considering it before offering the other guy a bite of the fruit.]
Because you make me want to get close to you. I've never felt like that before.
[It would be easy for him to lie. Make something up. But Lux doesn't bother. In his eyes, Chris deserves honesty. Especially when he's basically a captive audience here on this boat.]
Because you make me want to get close to you. I've never felt like that before.
[It would be easy for him to lie. Make something up. But Lux doesn't bother. In his eyes, Chris deserves honesty. Especially when he's basically a captive audience here on this boat.]
[Chris leaned in for a bite of the fruit as well, then thought better of his previous position and moved so he was laying against Lux's legs.
He let that small distraction be his pause. He wasn't sure what answer he'd been expecting, but now that he had it, he wasn't sure what to think of it, either. He had felt that before, a couple times now, and while it might (and often did) lead nowhere, it could also lead somewhere. Wasn't that exactly what he'd been trying to avoid?
But it was Lux. He wasn't even pushing it now, just stating it and that mattered. It was fine, for now, because the truth f the matter was that:]
Well, I happen to like being close to you, so I'm for it. [Chris flashed him a smile.] Happy to confuddle you along the way.
He let that small distraction be his pause. He wasn't sure what answer he'd been expecting, but now that he had it, he wasn't sure what to think of it, either. He had felt that before, a couple times now, and while it might (and often did) lead nowhere, it could also lead somewhere. Wasn't that exactly what he'd been trying to avoid?
But it was Lux. He wasn't even pushing it now, just stating it and that mattered. It was fine, for now, because the truth f the matter was that:]
Well, I happen to like being close to you, so I'm for it. [Chris flashed him a smile.] Happy to confuddle you along the way.
[Oh look at that. He has a pretty man on his lap. Lux smiles down at him and offers to feed him the other half of the piece of fruit in his hand. It's really luxurious. And he loves every second of it.]
Well if someone has to confuddle me it might as well be someone as gorgeous as you are.
[He laughs and makes sure Chris is able to lick his fingers clean before he grabs something else to feed him.]
Well if someone has to confuddle me it might as well be someone as gorgeous as you are.
[He laughs and makes sure Chris is able to lick his fingers clean before he grabs something else to feed him.]
[It's a funny moment where Chris takes the fruit from Lux happily and only once he's chewing does it occur to him it was like a (much better) reversal of the Harmony Training he'd been pushed into with Jon. That hadn't been the worst thing in the world by far, but it had been insanely uncomfortable.
This was the complete opposite.]
I feel like I should be feeding you. Isn't that what art likes to show? A picturesque man in the lap of his dutiful enthralled being fed grapes or the like? We should switch.
[He says that, but makes no move to get up just yet either.]
This was the complete opposite.]
I feel like I should be feeding you. Isn't that what art likes to show? A picturesque man in the lap of his dutiful enthralled being fed grapes or the like? We should switch.
[He says that, but makes no move to get up just yet either.]
I don't see why we need to switch. I think what you've described is happening right now.
[A picturesque man being fed by his dutiful enthralled... If he couldn't be described as being enthralled with him then clearly he didn't know the definition of the word.]
You're extremely picturesque to me.
[A picturesque man being fed by his dutiful enthralled... If he couldn't be described as being enthralled with him then clearly he didn't know the definition of the word.]
You're extremely picturesque to me.
[Chris slowly looks over at him, his expression some mix of fond, exasperated, and confused. The pink coloring his cheeks didn't help.]
No, I'll have to disagree. One of us is literally meant to be male perfection and it's sure not me. You and that mouth of yours.
No, I'll have to disagree. One of us is literally meant to be male perfection and it's sure not me. You and that mouth of yours.
I'm what is meant to be easy to jump into bed with honestly. There's no such thing as male perfection where I'm from. So yeah, you're still picturesque to me.
[Lux grabs some more fruit then puts it between his teeth before bending over to offer it to him that way. And if he gets a kiss out of it? Even better.]
[Lux grabs some more fruit then puts it between his teeth before bending over to offer it to him that way. And if he gets a kiss out of it? Even better.]
[There's not much he can say to that. When he had people like Ra'ah and Amnos around him, it was hard to see himself as 'picturesque male' but if Lux said it..? Well, maybe he could partially believe it. At least with Lux.
The demon leans down, fruit in his mouth and Chris meets him, taking the offering first as he chewed and played coy with the kiss. He was terrible at bluffing however, and he quickly turned back to surge up into a heated kiss.]
The demon leans down, fruit in his mouth and Chris meets him, taking the offering first as he chewed and played coy with the kiss. He was terrible at bluffing however, and he quickly turned back to surge up into a heated kiss.]
[Smiling into the kiss when he gets it, Lux cups the back of Chris' head to support it. The rocking of the boat just makes all of this better and he happily savors the taste of his lover for a bit before pulling back to smile down at him.]
Hey gorgeous. Enjoying your fruit?
Hey gorgeous. Enjoying your fruit?
[He leaned into Lux's hand a bit and smile softly.]
I am. Especially the way it's getting to me. Although...
[He sat back up and shifted again so he was within reach of Lux's face, which his hands reached up to trace and cup.]
Think I might be craving something with a little more spice. I hear tongue's a delicacy in some parts.
I am. Especially the way it's getting to me. Although...
[He sat back up and shifted again so he was within reach of Lux's face, which his hands reached up to trace and cup.]
Think I might be craving something with a little more spice. I hear tongue's a delicacy in some parts.
[Chris hummed, smile spreading even as he leaned in to kiss him again, his tongue immediately seeking out Lux's to have his 'sample.'
He pressed more into the kiss, moving to put himself in Lux's lap, though when he broke away for air, his hands traced Lux's face gentle, a far more affectionate and chaste thing than his body language would suggest. His eyes moved from feature to feature on the other man's face, as though attempting to commit the details to memory.]
I think you may be right...and I don't know about these parts, but it seems to be a delicacy on these waters.
He pressed more into the kiss, moving to put himself in Lux's lap, though when he broke away for air, his hands traced Lux's face gentle, a far more affectionate and chaste thing than his body language would suggest. His eyes moved from feature to feature on the other man's face, as though attempting to commit the details to memory.]
I think you may be right...and I don't know about these parts, but it seems to be a delicacy on these waters.
You're the first to have this particular sample in these waters. It doesn't usually get offered up to just anyone.
[Lux isn't even sure why he hasn't brought anyone else out here. And yet he finds he's not motivated to impress anyone else either. Chris continues to be special somehow.
He's just so...drawn to him.]
Would you care for some more recommendations?
[Lux isn't even sure why he hasn't brought anyone else out here. And yet he finds he's not motivated to impress anyone else either. Chris continues to be special somehow.
He's just so...drawn to him.]
Would you care for some more recommendations?
Well, I feel appropriately lucky, then.
[He feels like...he shouldn't believe him. Because Lux is Lux and that's fine, he knew that and it was really for the best. And yet, when Lux says it, Chris does believe him.
Romantic. Foolish. Stupid because it was probably in his head, but-]
Of course, you've had fine taste so far, I'm eager to hear what else you've got.
[He feels like...he shouldn't believe him. Because Lux is Lux and that's fine, he knew that and it was really for the best. And yet, when Lux says it, Chris does believe him.
Romantic. Foolish. Stupid because it was probably in his head, but-]
Of course, you've had fine taste so far, I'm eager to hear what else you've got.
Hmmm... [He eyes Lux's neck imperiously, scraping together his noble airs even while a smile tugs at the corner of his lips and threatens to ruin the whole thing.]
You know...it's been some time since I had neck of any sort, much less such an enticing rarity. I may just try a sample.
[He leans in and presses a small, almost reverent kiss on Lux's neck which turns into more as he works the same spot with tongue and lips and just the slightest catch of teeth now and then. He sucks on the skin after another moment, hard enough to hopefully leave a mark for however long it would last, at least.]
You know...it's been some time since I had neck of any sort, much less such an enticing rarity. I may just try a sample.
[He leans in and presses a small, almost reverent kiss on Lux's neck which turns into more as he works the same spot with tongue and lips and just the slightest catch of teeth now and then. He sucks on the skin after another moment, hard enough to hopefully leave a mark for however long it would last, at least.]
[It will only last seconds but those seconds are precious enough to Lux who groans as he feels the effort Chris puts into that mark. It's so unbelievably hot.]
Seems like you like that sample. Maybe I should offer you a main course.
[He's not as greedy as his sister but he's got a little in him.]
Seems like you like that sample. Maybe I should offer you a main course.
[He's not as greedy as his sister but he's got a little in him.]
[Chris hums and leaves a few more kiss and nips along the column of Lux's neck before pulling back to press a softer kiss to lips instead.]
I'm feeling pretty hungry now, I'll admit. Think you've got something to sate my appetite?
[His tone was coy, but his hand slid down Lux's chest, down under his own leg to play and tease with light touches over his companion's clothed cock.]
I'm feeling pretty hungry now, I'll admit. Think you've got something to sate my appetite?
[His tone was coy, but his hand slid down Lux's chest, down under his own leg to play and tease with light touches over his companion's clothed cock.]
[He grins at both of those sounds, wonderful in different ways, and makes quick work of opening Lux's pants to reach in to free his 'main course' to the sea air.
He strokes Lux's cock slowly, then runs his tongue along the length, pausing to suck on the head a moment before the languid attention of his hand continued.]
Mmm...yes, I think this will do nicely. Just what I was craving.
He strokes Lux's cock slowly, then runs his tongue along the length, pausing to suck on the head a moment before the languid attention of his hand continued.]
Mmm...yes, I think this will do nicely. Just what I was craving.
[Bull smiles as he calls the guy up.]
Hey, it's The Iron Bull. You ready to get those drinks?
Hey, it's The Iron Bull. You ready to get those drinks?
[Chris' smile is small, but earnest when he answers.]
A night of getting blind-wasted? Count me in. Where're we going?
A night of getting blind-wasted? Count me in. Where're we going?
There's a place I like in the Down. Serves the worst crap which means you're sure to feel it sooner. I'll come pick you up and take you there.
Sounds perfect. I'll meet you.
[He dresses light, simple. Not because there will be a brawl, but because he should be ready if there is. Or at least something he didn't care so much about, just in case this place sounds like the back-corner junk Melvaunt had floating in it's center.
When he meets Bull, he's tying his hair back but spares a brief wave. And also a moment to stare at the hulking man.]
Bane's black hand you're...massive. Got a friend back home who's huge but you've got a whole head on him. [He finished tying his hair and offered his hand.] Sorry, that's probly really rude...and likely what you get all the time.
[He dresses light, simple. Not because there will be a brawl, but because he should be ready if there is. Or at least something he didn't care so much about, just in case this place sounds like the back-corner junk Melvaunt had floating in it's center.
When he meets Bull, he's tying his hair back but spares a brief wave. And also a moment to stare at the hulking man.]
Bane's black hand you're...massive. Got a friend back home who's huge but you've got a whole head on him. [He finished tying his hair and offered his hand.] Sorry, that's probly really rude...and likely what you get all the time.
[Bull laughs and takes his hand firmly.]
You're gonna have to work harder than that if you want to offend me. I've heard it all.
[And then some.]
You ready for me to drink you under the table?
You're gonna have to work harder than that if you want to offend me. I've heard it all.
[And then some.]
You ready for me to drink you under the table?
I'll see what I can work up.
[He says ti with a grin, but he certainly doesn't mean it. The
Iron Bull was already reminding him of Amnos in more ways than the height, muscle, and horns and Chris would be lying if he said he wasn't instantly far more relaxed with this perfect stranger than just about anyone else on first meeting.]
Ready and more than willing. I've hit a few floors in my time, we'll see how soft this one is.
[He says ti with a grin, but he certainly doesn't mean it. The
Iron Bull was already reminding him of Amnos in more ways than the height, muscle, and horns and Chris would be lying if he said he wasn't instantly far more relaxed with this perfect stranger than just about anyone else on first meeting.]
Ready and more than willing. I've hit a few floors in my time, we'll see how soft this one is.
Maybe if I'm not too pissed myself I'll catch you before you hit the floor. My tits are probably softer than that floor.
[He laughs and waves for drinks to be brought over for them. Some beers to start with. Just get some booze in the system while he figures out which of the fun stuff he wants to order first.]
[He laughs and waves for drinks to be brought over for them. Some beers to start with. Just get some booze in the system while he figures out which of the fun stuff he wants to order first.]
[He laughed and gave Bull's chest a once over for show as though assessing them.]
Aye, you're a true gentleman.
[When the beers come, Chris holds his mug up for a small, silent, toast and a nod to his companion.]
So, warm up drinks, then something harder for the main event? Man your size, you've probably got to go for some liquid gold, but I'll warn you I'm no pushover. Used to keeping up with a dwarf near your size.
Aye, you're a true gentleman.
[When the beers come, Chris holds his mug up for a small, silent, toast and a nod to his companion.]
So, warm up drinks, then something harder for the main event? Man your size, you've probably got to go for some liquid gold, but I'll warn you I'm no pushover. Used to keeping up with a dwarf near your size.
A dwarf?
[Excuse him while he pauses and has trouble processing that information since, well, dwarves where he comes from are not even half his size. Not even close to the height of one of his legs usually.]
[Excuse him while he pauses and has trouble processing that information since, well, dwarves where he comes from are not even half his size. Not even close to the height of one of his legs usually.]
Well... [Yeah, on second thought, out of context, that sounded weird.]
Amnos is a tiefling by birth, over six foot, sports an impressive set of horns of his own, but he was raised by dwarves. Dwarf culture: you're raised by them and practice their culture, you're a dwarf.
[At least, the way it had been explained to him. It was a little strange to him, but if his friend considered himself a dwarf, Chris wasn't going to argue.]
You'd like him, he's usually got a great big weapon too.
Amnos is a tiefling by birth, over six foot, sports an impressive set of horns of his own, but he was raised by dwarves. Dwarf culture: you're raised by them and practice their culture, you're a dwarf.
[At least, the way it had been explained to him. It was a little strange to him, but if his friend considered himself a dwarf, Chris wasn't going to argue.]
You'd like him, he's usually got a great big weapon too.
Huh. Yeah I guess that makes sense. Never met a tiefling before but the culture thing seems pretty logical.
[But, he's formerly Qunari. Where that sort of thing is pretty common. So yeah. That would make perfect sense to him.]
[But, he's formerly Qunari. Where that sort of thing is pretty common. So yeah. That would make perfect sense to him.]
If you've ever seen a little blue girl with horns named Jester before, that's a tiefling.
[He doubted it really mattered, but just in case. Maybe more tieflings would come through here, maybe even one of his tieflings. Then again, he hoped not. They had more important things to be doing.]
It was a bit to wrap my head around for the same reason you paused on it as well, but he's got a right to not associate with the type of people who didn't want him around.
Anyway... [He didn't usually talk about home or his missing friends, yet here he was...no, it would be better to change the subject or he'd just end up missing what he couldn't have.]
Don't think you told me your favorite drinking game. Now's the time.
[He doubted it really mattered, but just in case. Maybe more tieflings would come through here, maybe even one of his tieflings. Then again, he hoped not. They had more important things to be doing.]
It was a bit to wrap my head around for the same reason you paused on it as well, but he's got a right to not associate with the type of people who didn't want him around.
Anyway... [He didn't usually talk about home or his missing friends, yet here he was...no, it would be better to change the subject or he'd just end up missing what he couldn't have.]
Don't think you told me your favorite drinking game. Now's the time.
Can't say I have but good to know.
[Bull can make note of that at least. Blue skin with horns means possible tiefling. Much like huge, gray, and with horns tends to mean someone like him.]
Heh. My favorite huh?
[He knows that this subject change is intentional. But he can roll with it.]
You probably haven't heard of it. Pretty sure it's something only in my world. But it's something my right hand taught me. He tells me he learned it from a solider but I know he made it up to give me something to do one time when I couldn't fight easy because my hands were recovering.
[He holds up one of his hands to show missing fingers.]
[Bull can make note of that at least. Blue skin with horns means possible tiefling. Much like huge, gray, and with horns tends to mean someone like him.]
Heh. My favorite huh?
[He knows that this subject change is intentional. But he can roll with it.]
You probably haven't heard of it. Pretty sure it's something only in my world. But it's something my right hand taught me. He tells me he learned it from a solider but I know he made it up to give me something to do one time when I couldn't fight easy because my hands were recovering.
[He holds up one of his hands to show missing fingers.]
[Chris' eyes trace over the old injury with some curiosity, when they return to Bull's face, it's with a bit more respect.]
You've got a number of stories to you, Iron Bull. More'n most ever have, I'd bet.
[And those were just the physical. Chris had all of two scars and more than that number of stories. Yet Bull sat there a veritable canvas of his own tales and he doubted his capability of imagining how many more there might be.]
Makes me think of that game where you're to try and take the shot off the table with just your lips and teeth and take it that way too. Hands free.
You've got a number of stories to you, Iron Bull. More'n most ever have, I'd bet.
[And those were just the physical. Chris had all of two scars and more than that number of stories. Yet Bull sat there a veritable canvas of his own tales and he doubted his capability of imagining how many more there might be.]
Makes me think of that game where you're to try and take the shot off the table with just your lips and teeth and take it that way too. Hands free.
People might accuse me of cheating for that one unless they've got bigger glasses.
[Yep. He knows he has a big mouth. And he laughs as he finishes off his drink.]
How good are you at doing that?
[Yep. He knows he has a big mouth. And he laughs as he finishes off his drink.]
How good are you at doing that?
[Chris laughs and takes a gulp off his drink. The question received an interested noise from inside the mug and when he set it back down, he shot Bull a smirk.]
You want a demonstration?
[It'd been over a month since the last time he'd done it, but it was a tried and true skill now, if he was honest.]
You want a demonstration?
[It'd been over a month since the last time he'd done it, but it was a tried and true skill now, if he was honest.]
Edited 2020-11-27 17:23 (UTC)
Damn right I do.
[Bull raises a hand to order them some shots. Because there's no way he's turning down watching this one.]
Show me how it's done. I'll see if I can do it too.
[Bull raises a hand to order them some shots. Because there's no way he's turning down watching this one.]
Show me how it's done. I'll see if I can do it too.
You've got it.
[He continues nursing his drink until the shots come.
When they do, he takes his and holds it up like a toast with a wink.]
Here's to useless talents.
[He puts the shot glass down on the table and makes a small show of putting his hands behind his back before ducking down. It takes a moment of finagling, but he gets his lips wrapped around the rim of the glass and holds it that way as he throws his head back and lets the shot burn down his throat. He swallows, then reaches up to pop the glass from his mouth.]
Your turn.
[He continues nursing his drink until the shots come.
When they do, he takes his and holds it up like a toast with a wink.]
Here's to useless talents.
[He puts the shot glass down on the table and makes a small show of putting his hands behind his back before ducking down. It takes a moment of finagling, but he gets his lips wrapped around the rim of the glass and holds it that way as he throws his head back and lets the shot burn down his throat. He swallows, then reaches up to pop the glass from his mouth.]
Your turn.
[Tilting his head, he makes sure that he watches him. It's definitely impressive and Bull ends up laughing before slapping the bar counter.]
Shit! That was great! Give me a sec here. Gotta sit further back.
[The trials of being enormous.
Once Bull is sat further back, he positions the shot in front of him. Putting his hands behind his back, he leans forward. It takes him a moment to make sure he can see the glass properly but then he takes advantage of how big his mouth is to grab the thing and toss it back.
For extra show, he sucks the glass further in then shoots it up into the air to catch it with his hand.]
Not a bad burn on that stuff.
Shit! That was great! Give me a sec here. Gotta sit further back.
[The trials of being enormous.
Once Bull is sat further back, he positions the shot in front of him. Putting his hands behind his back, he leans forward. It takes him a moment to make sure he can see the glass properly but then he takes advantage of how big his mouth is to grab the thing and toss it back.
For extra show, he sucks the glass further in then shoots it up into the air to catch it with his hand.]
Not a bad burn on that stuff.
[Chris watches, elbow on the counter and head resting on his closed first while Bull moves to give himself room. Again, he's very briefly reminded of Amnos, but his poor friend wouldn't be able to play this game at all. His horns would likely slam the counter before his face got anywhere near it.
He's, admittedly, a little worried about the depth perception thing for a moment before Bull proves it's long-not a real issue and easily pulls the same trick and improves it. Chris laughs brightly and claps for Bull's performance.]
Very nicely done, fine sir. Though, I was a bit worried you might choke on the glass for a second there, thing's like a thimble to you.
So I don't know what swill you're used to, but the worst place back home had this one thing to it -other than everyone was so blind-drunk all the time and the proprietor an idiot so I never ran a risk of being recognized- the best thing it had to it was this drink that burned not only the back of your throat, but near-on everything else on it's way through. Haven't found anything like that here. Not sure that I miss it, but it did the damn job.
He's, admittedly, a little worried about the depth perception thing for a moment before Bull proves it's long-not a real issue and easily pulls the same trick and improves it. Chris laughs brightly and claps for Bull's performance.]
Very nicely done, fine sir. Though, I was a bit worried you might choke on the glass for a second there, thing's like a thimble to you.
So I don't know what swill you're used to, but the worst place back home had this one thing to it -other than everyone was so blind-drunk all the time and the proprietor an idiot so I never ran a risk of being recognized- the best thing it had to it was this drink that burned not only the back of your throat, but near-on everything else on it's way through. Haven't found anything like that here. Not sure that I miss it, but it did the damn job.
I've found some crap that's pretty close to something like that but there's nothing like this stuff back home. That's the kind of thing that'll put some chest on your chest.
[He waves for the bartender and asks for the strongest thing they've got. The stronger the better. While they're drinks are getting made, he looks back to his companion.]
So where'd you learn your trick? I like it.
[He waves for the bartender and asks for the strongest thing they've got. The stronger the better. While they're drinks are getting made, he looks back to his companion.]
So where'd you learn your trick? I like it.
Don't know that I need more.
[Chest on his...he probably shouldn't have said that, but he was already feeling a touch lighter for the drinks and the comfort from all his associations were already there and-
Honestly, fuck it. This was the most 'at home' he'd felt. One off-color joke wasn't going to hurt. It probably wasn't even noticed.
By the time he's out of his head, Bull's asking another question, but he doesn't have to think hard, at least.]
Malik Kallian. Sailor and procurements for the temple. Walked into my brothel one day and wanted to buy my time, but I wasn't for sale. Didn't do that kind of work there, so he bought my time as a Companion. Told me stories, showed me new things. It was a very improper trick to be learnt. So, of course, I loved it and learned it as quickly as I could.
[Chest on his...he probably shouldn't have said that, but he was already feeling a touch lighter for the drinks and the comfort from all his associations were already there and-
Honestly, fuck it. This was the most 'at home' he'd felt. One off-color joke wasn't going to hurt. It probably wasn't even noticed.
By the time he's out of his head, Bull's asking another question, but he doesn't have to think hard, at least.]
Malik Kallian. Sailor and procurements for the temple. Walked into my brothel one day and wanted to buy my time, but I wasn't for sale. Didn't do that kind of work there, so he bought my time as a Companion. Told me stories, showed me new things. It was a very improper trick to be learnt. So, of course, I loved it and learned it as quickly as I could.
[Bull finds Chris pulling himself back and smiles more at him. Especially when he shares the story of how he learned that trick. It makes him chuckle and he nods.]
I like him already.
[He's never met him of course but that sounds right up his alley.]
Did you get to spend some more time with him after that?
I like him already.
[He's never met him of course but that sounds right up his alley.]
Did you get to spend some more time with him after that?
You probably would.
[Chris didn't know Bull very well, but he was personable and so was Kallian, he could imagine they'd be tossing back drinks and laughing within minutes of saying hello.
The question puts a slightly more wistful look on his face.]
Yeah...he spent from nightfall to daybreak with me that night. Same night after and the night after that. A whole week of nights, him talking and me listening at first, but then the other way too. Last night was the best night.
[The night Chris- Crystal had asked for permission to have Kallian's company. A night of quiet touches and then serious conversations about revelations to be had. Him finding her trying on his clothes while she thought he slept. His gentle coaxing, a blade to help with hair down to her lower back and he'd never felt so light after that.
His expression didn't change but he sat up from where he'd been leaning and shook his head.]
Course, as these things go, he set sail day after that with promises to return and never did. Found elsewhere to be or elsewise found a watery rest, but he taught me a lot about a lot of things.
[Chris didn't know Bull very well, but he was personable and so was Kallian, he could imagine they'd be tossing back drinks and laughing within minutes of saying hello.
The question puts a slightly more wistful look on his face.]
Yeah...he spent from nightfall to daybreak with me that night. Same night after and the night after that. A whole week of nights, him talking and me listening at first, but then the other way too. Last night was the best night.
[The night Chris- Crystal had asked for permission to have Kallian's company. A night of quiet touches and then serious conversations about revelations to be had. Him finding her trying on his clothes while she thought he slept. His gentle coaxing, a blade to help with hair down to her lower back and he'd never felt so light after that.
His expression didn't change but he sat up from where he'd been leaning and shook his head.]
Course, as these things go, he set sail day after that with promises to return and never did. Found elsewhere to be or elsewise found a watery rest, but he taught me a lot about a lot of things.
Edited 2020-12-23 00:29 (UTC)
Those are the most interesting people you'll have in your life. Where they leave a strong impression and teach you something important about yourself. Sometimes they'll stay with you, sometimes they won't.
[He chuckles a bit. So far it's seeming like this guy has some details he's leaving off. Bull's pretty sure it has to do with the gender thing but he's not going to address it. Chris is a guy and that makes him a guy. Doesn't matter what's under his clothes for Bull.
Being raised Qunari gives him a very different take on things at times. A lot of the time.]
And you never know. Life isn't over. You might seem him again.
[He chuckles a bit. So far it's seeming like this guy has some details he's leaving off. Bull's pretty sure it has to do with the gender thing but he's not going to address it. Chris is a guy and that makes him a guy. Doesn't matter what's under his clothes for Bull.
Being raised Qunari gives him a very different take on things at times. A lot of the time.]
And you never know. Life isn't over. You might seem him again.
Yeah. Probably. One way or another.
[The best part of being a Death Cleric was the assurance that there was something past life anyway. Even if Kallian died or Chris died or both, hopefully he'd at least get a chance to ask his friend what happened. As long as he'd been happy, that would be all that mattered.
Their new drinks arrived and Chris took up his as he nodded to Bull.]
Your turn. Dealer's choice: eye or fingers, what happened?
[The best part of being a Death Cleric was the assurance that there was something past life anyway. Even if Kallian died or Chris died or both, hopefully he'd at least get a chance to ask his friend what happened. As long as he'd been happy, that would be all that mattered.
Their new drinks arrived and Chris took up his as he nodded to Bull.]
Your turn. Dealer's choice: eye or fingers, what happened?
Lost the eye because I was at a tavern where some guys were harassing someone who is now one of my boys just because he'd been born a woman and tried to hide that so he could fight. When they tried to make an example of him, I took the flail meant for him to the face.
[He makes a popping sound.]
Gone went the eye. Krem's my right hand man now.
[He down plays the heroics of that a good bit because that's never been his focus. It's not a big deal to him. Bull saw someone who needed him and he stepped in. Simple as that.
Taking a drink of the thing been given to him, he hisses at the nice burn before talking again.]
Now the fingers are a fun story. [He chuckles and gives a grin.]
So if you want that story I can give you that one too.
[He makes a popping sound.]
Gone went the eye. Krem's my right hand man now.
[He down plays the heroics of that a good bit because that's never been his focus. It's not a big deal to him. Bull saw someone who needed him and he stepped in. Simple as that.
Taking a drink of the thing been given to him, he hisses at the nice burn before talking again.]
Now the fingers are a fun story. [He chuckles and gives a grin.]
So if you want that story I can give you that one too.
[Chris winces for the popping sound, his imagination wasn't terrible and he could visualize it all too well. He'd seen what a flail could do to a man, even if he'd never felt it himself. Still, the heroics weren't lost on him even with only that.
A man didn't have to step in for that. Chris hadn't faced much of that himself, but he'd never been caught and by the time it even came up in a bigger arena, he'd had plenty of people who would have stepped in. Chris had been lucky. Sounded like Krem had been lucky as well.]
That was good of you. I'm sure he appreciates it.
[He took his own drink but gestured for Bull to continue, he coughed as the drink went down, but managed to keep from choking on the burn. Good.]
If you're offering, I'm listening.
A man didn't have to step in for that. Chris hadn't faced much of that himself, but he'd never been caught and by the time it even came up in a bigger arena, he'd had plenty of people who would have stepped in. Chris had been lucky. Sounded like Krem had been lucky as well.]
That was good of you. I'm sure he appreciates it.
[He took his own drink but gestured for Bull to continue, he coughed as the drink went down, but managed to keep from choking on the burn. Good.]
If you're offering, I'm listening.
Yeah. Way he tells the story makes me sound like some hero which I'm not. I just saw Aqun-Athlok, like you, and wanted those assholes to stop.
[Bull doesn't view himself as a hero. Doesn't matter the tall tales he might tell sometimes he's not a hero. Just a mercenary who was in the right place at the right time.]
Alright. So we had this job where we had to take out this group of bandits. They were really getting in the way of some trade routes and people didn't want to involve soldiers. What do you do when you don't want soldiers? You get mercenaries.
My boys and I went out there and the leader was this big guy all round and fat. Fast though. A lot like how pigs are even when you have them well fed on a farm. Well my boys had the rest taken care of but this guy was mine. He got a few good hits in but that was when I really felt my blood pumping.
[He downs his glass and hisses at how good that liquor is. Then he raises his arms up like he's wielding a huge weapon and swings through the air.]
I went to cut his head off and he ducked and gave a swing of his own. Felt some pain but I was too busy roaring as I gave a huge spin. Looked like a damn tornado as I took his head off.
Later Krem came to look at my injuries and saw the tips of my fingers were gone. We had a laugh until I made him groan when I told him that I guess I wouldn't be strumming any exotic organs anytime soon.
[Bull laughs again at his own sex joke.]
Now I've got these two gone for good.
[Bull doesn't view himself as a hero. Doesn't matter the tall tales he might tell sometimes he's not a hero. Just a mercenary who was in the right place at the right time.]
Alright. So we had this job where we had to take out this group of bandits. They were really getting in the way of some trade routes and people didn't want to involve soldiers. What do you do when you don't want soldiers? You get mercenaries.
My boys and I went out there and the leader was this big guy all round and fat. Fast though. A lot like how pigs are even when you have them well fed on a farm. Well my boys had the rest taken care of but this guy was mine. He got a few good hits in but that was when I really felt my blood pumping.
[He downs his glass and hisses at how good that liquor is. Then he raises his arms up like he's wielding a huge weapon and swings through the air.]
I went to cut his head off and he ducked and gave a swing of his own. Felt some pain but I was too busy roaring as I gave a huge spin. Looked like a damn tornado as I took his head off.
Later Krem came to look at my injuries and saw the tips of my fingers were gone. We had a laugh until I made him groan when I told him that I guess I wouldn't be strumming any exotic organs anytime soon.
[Bull laughs again at his own sex joke.]
Now I've got these two gone for good.
['Aqun-Athlok' is far nicer term than some of the ones he's thought. It's not his to use, but he'll remember it for as long as he can.
He's an attentive audience as he sips on the drink and listens to Bull's story, though he grins for the sex joke even as he tries to hide it behind his glass.]
That sounds damn impressive. It's funny, you reminded me of my friend cause of the height and the horns and laid-back attitude, but the way you fight sounds similar too. He carries a great big sword and when he goes into a fight, he harnesses his anger and rage into being stronger. Sometimes that means taking hits he barely feels cause he's too busy using that anger.
Dunno...sounded similar. If he ever showed here, I'd pay money to see the two of you spar.
He's an attentive audience as he sips on the drink and listens to Bull's story, though he grins for the sex joke even as he tries to hide it behind his glass.]
That sounds damn impressive. It's funny, you reminded me of my friend cause of the height and the horns and laid-back attitude, but the way you fight sounds similar too. He carries a great big sword and when he goes into a fight, he harnesses his anger and rage into being stronger. Sometimes that means taking hits he barely feels cause he's too busy using that anger.
Dunno...sounded similar. If he ever showed here, I'd pay money to see the two of you spar.
Anger huh? That's probably closer to a Berserker actually. I'm what we call a Reaver. I take pain and injuries inflicted on me and turn that into power I need to fight. Dangerous way of doing it because you're literally letting yourself bleed out to be stronger but it works for me.
Really?
[He's...definitely fascinated with that idea. And just drunk enough now that there's no chance at hiding it. That sounded ideal, in a way...how much better might he be in a fist fight if he could turn the hits landed on him into more strength? Could he turn his pain into more pain when he cast inflict wounds and flexed necrotic magic through his enemy's veins? Fighters and clerics had enough overlap, perhaps...]
You must annoy the shit out of your healers, though.
[Because, on the opposite side of that, if Chris were the one needing to watch Amnos or even Iron Bull to make sure they didn't fall, extra injuries wouldn't make him happy.]
[He's...definitely fascinated with that idea. And just drunk enough now that there's no chance at hiding it. That sounded ideal, in a way...how much better might he be in a fist fight if he could turn the hits landed on him into more strength? Could he turn his pain into more pain when he cast inflict wounds and flexed necrotic magic through his enemy's veins? Fighters and clerics had enough overlap, perhaps...]
You must annoy the shit out of your healers, though.
[Because, on the opposite side of that, if Chris were the one needing to watch Amnos or even Iron Bull to make sure they didn't fall, extra injuries wouldn't make him happy.]
[That makes him burst out laughing, throwing his head back as he does.]
Damn right I do! Usually they have to use this magic that revives you in battle. Gets you back up on your feet. My boss had a good mage around in battle with us usually and they'd have me back up in no time. Otherwise I just pop some potions if I really needed that pick me up.
Damn right I do! Usually they have to use this magic that revives you in battle. Gets you back up on your feet. My boss had a good mage around in battle with us usually and they'd have me back up in no time. Otherwise I just pop some potions if I really needed that pick me up.
I've got some dominant recommendations for you.
[ The text comes out of the blue a few hours after the D/s finder goes up, completely unannounced. ]
I talked to a few people for you and think I found some good options.
[ The text comes out of the blue a few hours after the D/s finder goes up, completely unannounced. ]
I talked to a few people for you and think I found some good options.
You know, when you asked, and I didn't answer, that sure as shit wasn't meant to be an assumed yes.
Besides, you were already Catted out by one of your targets.
Besides, you were already Catted out by one of your targets.
Too little too late. Though I see you met Festival already.
Catually you've made an impurression on Jon too. You're appawrently 'Chris the Cleric' now. Has a nice ring to it.
[ Don't mess with him on cat puns, Chris. ]
Catually you've made an impurression on Jon too. You're appawrently 'Chris the Cleric' now. Has a nice ring to it.
[ Don't mess with him on cat puns, Chris. ]
I did. I've known him for a bt of time. We talked a bit on that thing.
[It was a maybe.]
No. Don't throw your puns at me, they'll have no effect. Yes, I know Jon too. [He almost types 'we're friends' but then erases that. He doesn't know how to categorize that one yet.] I've been called worse than 'Chris the Cleric' so I guess I'll be thankful for it.
Do you have a list of your efforts or not?
[It was a maybe.]
No. Don't throw your puns at me, they'll have no effect. Yes, I know Jon too. [He almost types 'we're friends' but then erases that. He doesn't know how to categorize that one yet.] I've been called worse than 'Chris the Cleric' so I guess I'll be thankful for it.
Do you have a list of your efforts or not?
Edited 2020-10-18 02:37 (UTC)
I'm very under appreciated I'll have you know.
Festival is the top of the list, as he likes you, but otherwise Doctor Julian Bashir, and possibly miss Kaylee Frye. She needs a contract too.
Julian is already contracted but he's nice and willing to talk, and none of these people would expect anything from you physically so you could still do as you like in that regard.
I saw you with a strapping mostly naked gentleman the other day so I thought that might be best.
Festival is the top of the list, as he likes you, but otherwise Doctor Julian Bashir, and possibly miss Kaylee Frye. She needs a contract too.
Julian is already contracted but he's nice and willing to talk, and none of these people would expect anything from you physically so you could still do as you like in that regard.
I saw you with a strapping mostly naked gentleman the other day so I thought that might be best.
[Festival was probably at the top of his list too, if he was honest. He had every intention of thanking Hawke, maybe mentioning that.
And then he saw the last part, about the 'strapping mostly naked gentleman.'
And he stared at the device for just a moment as his face grew more red and grew more heated...
And he threw the thing across the bed as though it had burned him, a distant clatter as it fell off the side barely registering. He was too busy burying his face in his hands.
Hawke doesn't get a response for a full two minutes.]
Yep. Great. Thanks for the list. I appreciate it, Hawke.
And then he saw the last part, about the 'strapping mostly naked gentleman.'
And he stared at the device for just a moment as his face grew more red and grew more heated...
And he threw the thing across the bed as though it had burned him, a distant clatter as it fell off the side barely registering. He was too busy burying his face in his hands.
Hawke doesn't get a response for a full two minutes.]
Yep. Great. Thanks for the list. I appreciate it, Hawke.
[ That pause was entirely too long. Chris has a few in-between texts of Hello? Chris? Are you there? before that response is sent. ]
Have I said something wrong?
Have I said something wrong?
[Oh, good, now he felt like an ass too. Not Hawke's fault he just...
Hawke saw too much and that was one thing he wasn't sure he wanted insight on.]
No, not at all.
Caught me off guard mentioning what you did. Nothing wrong with it, just wasn't expecting. I appreciate your consideration, I really do.
Hawke saw too much and that was one thing he wasn't sure he wanted insight on.]
No, not at all.
Caught me off guard mentioning what you did. Nothing wrong with it, just wasn't expecting. I appreciate your consideration, I really do.
I'd just rather not see you in prison for their stupid rules.
And the man was hard not to notice.
Considering.
And the man was hard not to notice.
Considering.
I appreciate that too. Probably for the best, I'm a terrible prisoner.
His name's Lux, he's an incubus. By rights, he's meant to look like that.
His name's Lux, he's an incubus. By rights, he's meant to look like that.
Incublessed more like.
Not my type generally but good on you.
Does he treat you well?
[ That's the most important thing, really. And he figures after everything they've talked about, he and Chris are close enough to share that sort of talk.
He does put two-and-two together in Lux being the very same demon that Anders had slept with before Hawke arrived in the city. He'd been uncomfortable with the idea, even knowing that Lux is more of a demon like Crowley who just wants to be let alone to have his fun instead of like the ones they're both used to telling to piss off in the Fade every night.
He'll just have to keep an eye on Chris, just in case, but he's going to at least try and give this Lux the benefit of the doubt. Everyone could use a little happiness here in Duplicity, not least of all submissives. ]
Not my type generally but good on you.
Does he treat you well?
[ That's the most important thing, really. And he figures after everything they've talked about, he and Chris are close enough to share that sort of talk.
He does put two-and-two together in Lux being the very same demon that Anders had slept with before Hawke arrived in the city. He'd been uncomfortable with the idea, even knowing that Lux is more of a demon like Crowley who just wants to be let alone to have his fun instead of like the ones they're both used to telling to piss off in the Fade every night.
He'll just have to keep an eye on Chris, just in case, but he's going to at least try and give this Lux the benefit of the doubt. Everyone could use a little happiness here in Duplicity, not least of all submissives. ]
Edited 2020-10-19 06:04 (UTC)
Oh he's blessed.
[Just gonna leave that one there. Hawke wanted to talk? Alright.]
Yeah, he does. In more ways than he needs to.
[If the sex is bad, the food is bad. Chris understood that much, Lux was nice because it was like reaching for the salt on the table. Nice wasn't kind, though. He'd been kind ...which could easily be seen as better flavoring when used the right way, something Chris had no problems with.
Then there was the boat and the alley and the bath. The latter of which was spent specifically skipping out on what Chris could imagine would be a very good meal. For him.
So, yeah, Lux took care of him and Chris still wasn't sure what to do about it...except maybe take care of Lux back.]
[Just gonna leave that one there. Hawke wanted to talk? Alright.]
Yeah, he does. In more ways than he needs to.
[If the sex is bad, the food is bad. Chris understood that much, Lux was nice because it was like reaching for the salt on the table. Nice wasn't kind, though. He'd been kind ...which could easily be seen as better flavoring when used the right way, something Chris had no problems with.
Then there was the boat and the alley and the bath. The latter of which was spent specifically skipping out on what Chris could imagine would be a very good meal. For him.
So, yeah, Lux took care of him and Chris still wasn't sure what to do about it...except maybe take care of Lux back.]
Really? How do you mean?
[ That is not nearly enough details and Hawke has a sneaking suspicion based on that there there are real feelings at work here, not just sexual ones. Love being is absolute most favorite topic, Hawke is genuinely curious about this possible relationship. ]
[ That is not nearly enough details and Hawke has a sneaking suspicion based on that there there are real feelings at work here, not just sexual ones. Love being is absolute most favorite topic, Hawke is genuinely curious about this possible relationship. ]
Well, you see. I haven't pulled out a ruler, but he must be over eight inches. Pretty solid too. Blessed indeed.
[He is sure that wasn't what Hawke meant but also.
It was easy and he had zero shame when it came to the skills and equipment that made him scream.]
[He is sure that wasn't what Hawke meant but also.
It was easy and he had zero shame when it came to the skills and equipment that made him scream.]
[ Eight inches? Maker's balls... ]
That's not what I meant and you know it.
That's not what I meant and you know it.
Because we're friends and I care about your well being.
I'd have thought that was obvious.
[ Is he wrong? Chris knows things about him that he hasn't even told Anders, not that he wouldn't be willing. It just hadn't come up. But still! Sharing like that has to count for something. ]
I'd have thought that was obvious.
[ Is he wrong? Chris knows things about him that he hasn't even told Anders, not that he wouldn't be willing. It just hadn't come up. But still! Sharing like that has to count for something. ]
We are!
Gods.
Fine.
He just does more for me than he needs to. He's taken an interest in me beyond the sex. Which is definitely good, for the record, but it doesn't seem like that's all it's about.
[After another moment, there's another message after the last several.]
But also for my well being, I'm fine. More than fine, great, so we don't need to be having this conversation.
Gods.
Fine.
He just does more for me than he needs to. He's taken an interest in me beyond the sex. Which is definitely good, for the record, but it doesn't seem like that's all it's about.
[After another moment, there's another message after the last several.]
But also for my well being, I'm fine. More than fine, great, so we don't need to be having this conversation.
Well good then. I just wanted to know, considering the last time I actually saw you was after you'd been punched in the face at least once.
[ Chris had used 'great' again as a descriptor, which Hawke has learned means not actually 'great' but instead 'I haven't processed this just yet and don't intend to so please stop asking'. Considering he's already pushed once in this conversation, he'll stop himself from pulling more teeth for Chris' comfort. For now, anyway. ]
I am glad you're doing well though. Duplicity isn't the easiest place to do well in.
[ Chris had used 'great' again as a descriptor, which Hawke has learned means not actually 'great' but instead 'I haven't processed this just yet and don't intend to so please stop asking'. Considering he's already pushed once in this conversation, he'll stop himself from pulling more teeth for Chris' comfort. For now, anyway. ]
I am glad you're doing well though. Duplicity isn't the easiest place to do well in.
That was a special case.
[Not necessarily a one-off, but a special case. He could probably go a while yet before he'd need that again. Maybe. Hopefully.
The important part was Hawke taking the cue to drop the line of questioning. He wasn't ashamed of Lux in the slightest, he was more ashamed of the feelings he couldn't quite name and didn't know what to do with. He was scared of Hawke naming them.]
It's not. Certainly not for those of us marked like we are.
So turnabout now: how are you doing?
[Not necessarily a one-off, but a special case. He could probably go a while yet before he'd need that again. Maybe. Hopefully.
The important part was Hawke taking the cue to drop the line of questioning. He wasn't ashamed of Lux in the slightest, he was more ashamed of the feelings he couldn't quite name and didn't know what to do with. He was scared of Hawke naming them.]
It's not. Certainly not for those of us marked like we are.
So turnabout now: how are you doing?
[ Chris asks about him and it takes Hawke a moment to reply. Outside of Anders, its somewhat rare for anyone to ask after his well being. ]
I'm well as can be expected.
Or actually
Better than can be expected considering where we are.
I have things well handled for now at least.
[ He stares at the phone for a moment, actually taking a moment to take stock now that he's thinking about it. Ostensibly, he is fine. He has his health, he's finding a rhythm not just with Anders in this new situation but with Alaric too, a new joy found in the darkest of places. He has friends, people he knows he wouldn't have met if he'd never been pulled here. Good and trustworthy people. And yet...
There's still so much he's frustrated by and angry about. There are things he wants to find out and fight against. Rail against the city. He feels stagnant even as he keeps moving, talking to people and learning things, figuring things out. It has to be a careful process, especially so for how Anders had reacted to the punishment he'd received for the same. He wonders if it's a subject he can brooch any time soon, but he doesn't want to cause any more stress than there already is. He wants to be a safe haven, not another source of worry.
And he doesn't feel he can put any of that into text. ]
I'm well as can be expected.
Or actually
Better than can be expected considering where we are.
I have things well handled for now at least.
[ He stares at the phone for a moment, actually taking a moment to take stock now that he's thinking about it. Ostensibly, he is fine. He has his health, he's finding a rhythm not just with Anders in this new situation but with Alaric too, a new joy found in the darkest of places. He has friends, people he knows he wouldn't have met if he'd never been pulled here. Good and trustworthy people. And yet...
There's still so much he's frustrated by and angry about. There are things he wants to find out and fight against. Rail against the city. He feels stagnant even as he keeps moving, talking to people and learning things, figuring things out. It has to be a careful process, especially so for how Anders had reacted to the punishment he'd received for the same. He wonders if it's a subject he can brooch any time soon, but he doesn't want to cause any more stress than there already is. He wants to be a safe haven, not another source of worry.
And he doesn't feel he can put any of that into text. ]
That's good.
You'll tell me when the 'for now' falls away, yeah? That's the deal.
Next time I go looking for a bar to hit up, should I drop you a message?
[It was harder to pick things up through text alone, a small annoyance of his, even as convenient as the communication was. Considering what they'd talked about only a couple weeks back now, Chris had to trust Hawke would do what they'd said and find someone to talk to if things weren't going as well.]
You'll tell me when the 'for now' falls away, yeah? That's the deal.
Next time I go looking for a bar to hit up, should I drop you a message?
[It was harder to pick things up through text alone, a small annoyance of his, even as convenient as the communication was. Considering what they'd talked about only a couple weeks back now, Chris had to trust Hawke would do what they'd said and find someone to talk to if things weren't going as well.]
Yes ser!
[ It's a joke but he immediately wishes he hadn't sent it. He has some trouble with that phrase just now, even after a few weeks... But that's nothing Chris needs to hear about. Or anyone. ]
I think so.
You know, instead of possibly getting whoever you contract with in trouble if the bar goes wrong, we could meet somewhere and just punch each other instead.
I may be a mage, but these arms aren't just for show.
[ It's a joke but he immediately wishes he hadn't sent it. He has some trouble with that phrase just now, even after a few weeks... But that's nothing Chris needs to hear about. Or anyone. ]
I think so.
You know, instead of possibly getting whoever you contract with in trouble if the bar goes wrong, we could meet somewhere and just punch each other instead.
I may be a mage, but these arms aren't just for show.
[There's....a moment. A blink of a thought where his mind thinks about Hawke's arms and suddenly wonders about their use beyond fighting or punching. But the thought flitters away again.]
If the bar goes wrong. You're cute.
I take your meaning, though. A private round of blows might be better. You can put your walk where your talk is.
If the bar goes wrong. You're cute.
I take your meaning, though. A private round of blows might be better. You can put your walk where your talk is.
Thank you for noticing.
[ Were they in person, Hawke would be preening comically. ]
Sounds excellent. We could go blow for blow or spell for spell even. I doubt you could cause any lasting damage and I'm careful.
[ Gonna take that bait, Chris? ]
[ Were they in person, Hawke would be preening comically. ]
Sounds excellent. We could go blow for blow or spell for spell even. I doubt you could cause any lasting damage and I'm careful.
[ Gonna take that bait, Chris? ]
[What an ass. He laughs to himself, comfortable in the fact Hawke won't know he got a reaction.]
Oh? Is that so? Thing about a death cleric, Hawke, is that we're very good at dealing our trade. We'll see who needs to be careful.
[Take it and run.]
Oh? Is that so? Thing about a death cleric, Hawke, is that we're very good at dealing our trade. We'll see who needs to be careful.
[Take it and run.]
Now I feel like we should set a date and maybe sell tickets. We could make a fortune.
[ Only then everyone would expect them to end up putting on some other kind of show afterwards, he's sure. This is Duplicity after all. ]
You know, a cleric is something very different than what you do where I'm from.
[ Only then everyone would expect them to end up putting on some other kind of show afterwards, he's sure. This is Duplicity after all. ]
You know, a cleric is something very different than what you do where I'm from.
You know, that's not a bad idea. There's a whole place for fights like that so long as your dominant agrees. People could bet on us and then we could split the winnings.
What's it mean where you're from?
What's it mean where you're from?
Doesn't that have to end in sex?
I mean. I'm flattered, of course.
[ But. Uh. Somehow, that's weird. ]
I mean. I'm flattered, of course.
[ But. Uh. Somehow, that's weird. ]
First off: you don't need to make that sound like such a bad deal.
Second off: No. It doesn't. Only when they're doing their special events, otherwise, it's just a fight ring.
[But now this is weird and he doesn't want this conversation to go the way Jon's had. Teasing and then serious and then teasing that ended awkwardly. No, he's bad enough at this, he should've just ended the conversation a while back.]
Don't worry about it, I'm only joking. Not easy through text, I'm finding.
Second off: No. It doesn't. Only when they're doing their special events, otherwise, it's just a fight ring.
[But now this is weird and he doesn't want this conversation to go the way Jon's had. Teasing and then serious and then teasing that ended awkwardly. No, he's bad enough at this, he should've just ended the conversation a while back.]
Don't worry about it, I'm only joking. Not easy through text, I'm finding.
It's not! I'm not sure about a public display, that's all. If it's just a regular ring then I'm all for it.
And yes tone is difficult in writing. The little pictures help though. 👍
😂
[ Maybe next time he should use voice at least though. ]
And yes tone is difficult in writing. The little pictures help though. 👍
😂
[ Maybe next time he should use voice at least though. ]
Not a fan of public for that stuff either, but it's just a ring most times, I swear.
Those things look terrible.
But I see what you mean. Thanks, Hawke.
Those things look terrible.
But I see what you mean. Thanks, Hawke.
Any time Chris
Let me know how things turn out.
I hope it wont be a catastrophe.
[ He just had to get one last one in. ]
Let me know how things turn out.
I hope it wont be a catastrophe.
[ He just had to get one last one in. ]
[The next message comes a few hours later.]
I now have a Tominant
I can't find the cat picture
I now have a Tominant
I can't find the cat picture
Concatulations! 😺
Also Tominant is so very good
I might have to use that
Also Tominant is so very good
I might have to use that
Tominant is better than that rubbish you just used.
But for sure, you have my blessing. It's not mine, sadly, but a good one.
But for sure, you have my blessing. It's not mine, sadly, but a good one.
Festival's then?
He's a good one, or seemed like it from our conversation
Just make sure you bring up anything that needs clarified. I think he's too reticent to actually think of all the things that need hashed out.
He's a good one, or seemed like it from our conversation
Just make sure you bring up anything that needs clarified. I think he's too reticent to actually think of all the things that need hashed out.
Yes.
He was, but we talked through it.
I'll be moving up there with him.
I think this will be a good fit for now.
Even if you are nosy, I do appreciate your care for it.
He was, but we talked through it.
I'll be moving up there with him.
I think this will be a good fit for now.
Even if you are nosy, I do appreciate your care for it.
I just want to keep my friends safe, that's all.
But you're welcome.
But you're welcome.
Hey, Chris?
[There's a beat, a pause because gods but he's awkward when it comes to hitting up people he hasn't actually met.]
We haven't met but Hawke mentioned you and said you do magic and so.. hi?
[There'd been a bit of encouragement from Hawke, but he doesn't add in that part. He's making an attempt, anyway. It would be different if he had his friends from home, but he knows he should find himself more friends than just Anders.]
[There's a beat, a pause because gods but he's awkward when it comes to hitting up people he hasn't actually met.]
We haven't met but Hawke mentioned you and said you do magic and so.. hi?
[There'd been a bit of encouragement from Hawke, but he doesn't add in that part. He's making an attempt, anyway. It would be different if he had his friends from home, but he knows he should find himself more friends than just Anders.]
[Oh Hawke. When he'd told festival Hawke was a nosy fuck, he suspected that may be the lighter description for him. The man was a meddler and Chris was going to end up punching him one of these days, he was fairly sure.]
Hello. Afraid he neglected to give a name of any sort when mentioning us lowly people he was trying to help, so you've got step up on me so far as that.
But, yeah, I've got magic. It's a little different from his kind of magic or the flavors around town 'cept one I know of. Ever heard of a cleric?
Hello. Afraid he neglected to give a name of any sort when mentioning us lowly people he was trying to help, so you've got step up on me so far as that.
But, yeah, I've got magic. It's a little different from his kind of magic or the flavors around town 'cept one I know of. Ever heard of a cleric?
Edited 2020-10-19 16:45 (UTC)
Oh, I'm Francis. But yes, I'm another one of his charity cases.
[Well, Hawke has mentioned Festival and brought up Chris possibly contracting with him. So it wasn't entirely Hawke being a meddler. This time.]
No, but I'm still trying to figure out magic and that- stuff. To be completely honest. So, what's a cleric?
[Well, Hawke has mentioned Festival and brought up Chris possibly contracting with him. So it wasn't entirely Hawke being a meddler. This time.]
No, but I'm still trying to figure out magic and that- stuff. To be completely honest. So, what's a cleric?
Pleasure, then, Francis. Hawke's a good sort, just sticking his hands in things that no one asked him to.
[Which was annoying...but he could appreciate the care behind it.]
Ah, new to the stuff, I gotcha. Guess it can have different meanings from world to world but, for mine, it means a person who prays to their god and gets their magic that way. I serve a goddess of death, my faith to her gets me a portion of her power to use as I need. Not all magic users are like that back home, mind; there's plenty others who get their magic through other means, that's just my path. Do you use magic or just curious to know?
[Which was annoying...but he could appreciate the care behind it.]
Ah, new to the stuff, I gotcha. Guess it can have different meanings from world to world but, for mine, it means a person who prays to their god and gets their magic that way. I serve a goddess of death, my faith to her gets me a portion of her power to use as I need. Not all magic users are like that back home, mind; there's plenty others who get their magic through other means, that's just my path. Do you use magic or just curious to know?
Nosy, yeah, but he seems to have good intentions so it's hard to hold it against him- too much.
[It was definitely a little bit annoying, but there were worse things, after all. There's a slight pause before he answers, and there's a touch of a sigh.]
I... well, I guess I use it a little bit. Ignored that I could most of my life, though, so it's still all really new to me. Hardly know how it all works, to be honest.
[It was definitely a little bit annoying, but there were worse things, after all. There's a slight pause before he answers, and there's a touch of a sigh.]
I... well, I guess I use it a little bit. Ignored that I could most of my life, though, so it's still all really new to me. Hardly know how it all works, to be honest.
Aah.. [He hadn't been born with magic, he couldn't imagine trying to ignore it if you had it, but he could picture several reasons why.]
Well, not sure I'm much help for it other than practicing with and on, I've never had to 'learn' same way as others. That said, seems to me you're in a good place for learning, there's plenty here who know magic and can help teach it. Be happy to talk with you about it if you need, though.
Well, not sure I'm much help for it other than practicing with and on, I've never had to 'learn' same way as others. That said, seems to me you're in a good place for learning, there's plenty here who know magic and can help teach it. Be happy to talk with you about it if you need, though.
[ It may be the first time Chris has received mail at his new address. When he comes in, he finds an envelope with his name on it that was clearly slid under the door at some earlier point in the day. When he opens it, he'll find two tickets to the Arena for a later date and a hand-written note. ]
Happy Satinalia! I'm not sure what Faerun's traditions are concerning gifts, but this is about the time of year we give gifts in Thedas and I thought you'd appreciate these.
You don't have to bring me if you'd rather bring Lux. I won't be offended.
~ A. Hawke
You don't have to bring me if you'd rather bring Lux. I won't be offended.
~ A. Hawke
Don't be daft, I'll be taking you of course.
Thank you.
There's a gift giving holiday in the Moonsea, not till the turn of the year, though.
Thank you.
There's a gift giving holiday in the Moonsea, not till the turn of the year, though.
[ Hawke answers with a laugh. ]
I don't expect anything for that, for the record. I just thought you'd like to go see a fight since you mentioned it before. I made sure it was just one of the regular ones too, though I could change it if you prefer.
[ He's not terribly keen on it but it's a gift for Chris so he'll acquiesce to whatever. ]
How is life in the cat house, by the way?
I don't expect anything for that, for the record. I just thought you'd like to go see a fight since you mentioned it before. I made sure it was just one of the regular ones too, though I could change it if you prefer.
[ He's not terribly keen on it but it's a gift for Chris so he'll acquiesce to whatever. ]
How is life in the cat house, by the way?
[Chris groans at the joke and he glared at the device, even though he knew it would go unseen.]
Look at you, you're so clever. It's fine, full of music and blankets that he builds into nests sometimes.
[Something he liked, but still wasn't entirely sure what to do with now that he had it. He'd been so hesitant to contract, now he was enjoying it.]
But, for the fight, no don't change it. Prefer it this way, honestly.
[He's not going to address the gift giving thing, he didn't need Hawke's approval for it. Besides, he didn't know the 'meaning' behind Hawke's holiday, but his own was something he was going to see through for those that mattered to him. The message itself mattered.]
Look at you, you're so clever. It's fine, full of music and blankets that he builds into nests sometimes.
[Something he liked, but still wasn't entirely sure what to do with now that he had it. He'd been so hesitant to contract, now he was enjoying it.]
But, for the fight, no don't change it. Prefer it this way, honestly.
[He's not going to address the gift giving thing, he didn't need Hawke's approval for it. Besides, he didn't know the 'meaning' behind Hawke's holiday, but his own was something he was going to see through for those that mattered to him. The message itself mattered.]
Good! If you're going to be forced into a contract anyway, there's no reason not to make it something comfortable. Blanket nests sound fun.
[ It's something Hawke had comes to terms with more swiftly than most, he imagines, since his Dominant is his boyfriend of near a decade anyway. ]
Excellent. I'm sure it will be fun. I'll buy the snacks, too. We can throw popcorn at the fighters who are rubbish.
[ It's something Hawke had comes to terms with more swiftly than most, he imagines, since his Dominant is his boyfriend of near a decade anyway. ]
Excellent. I'm sure it will be fun. I'll buy the snacks, too. We can throw popcorn at the fighters who are rubbish.
They do, don't they? I'm ashamed I've never tried it before. I think I might have a new favorite hobby.
[Certainly, talking about the blanket nests and the fight was easier than the contract part. It wasn't like there was anything either of them could do about it and it helped Festival hadn't been keen on it either.]
Is that a thing that you do? I've only ever seen rotten fruit.
[Certainly, talking about the blanket nests and the fight was easier than the contract part. It wasn't like there was anything either of them could do about it and it helped Festival hadn't been keen on it either.]
Is that a thing that you do? I've only ever seen rotten fruit.
Popcorn doesn't interrupt the fight, and it's more challenging to bounce off heads. Plus have you ever been hit with rotten fruit? It's disgusting.
[ He doesn't want to carry that around. ]
[ He doesn't want to carry that around. ]
I've not, but you've got a point. Popcorn it is, then.
We'll get drinks after, my treat now that I've freedom with my money.
We'll get drinks after, my treat now that I've freedom with my money.
All of Nate’s gifts are delivered via a fluttering origami bird, which flies directly to the recipient and puts the gift into their hands. Once it’s given, the bird will unfold into a note, which explains what the charm inside will do, and how to activate it. When the note has been read, it will explode into a miniature display of multi-coloured fireworks, which spell out “Yuletide wishes from Nate!” and then vanish.
Chris receives a pair of earrings, one enchanted for strength, and the other enchanted with a constitution boost. Twist them clockwise to turn them on, and anticlockwise for off. There’s also a bracelet that the studs can slot into, just in case Chris hasn’t evolved to the point of piercings yet. On Christmas Eve, the Theatre will also be full of homemade Yuletide food and drink, for everyone who works there to enjoy.
Chris receives a pair of earrings, one enchanted for strength, and the other enchanted with a constitution boost. Twist them clockwise to turn them on, and anticlockwise for off. There’s also a bracelet that the studs can slot into, just in case Chris hasn’t evolved to the point of piercings yet. On Christmas Eve, the Theatre will also be full of homemade Yuletide food and drink, for everyone who works there to enjoy.
[There's a bright red box with no sender and no note left for Chris at Festival's house. When opened, he'll find a coffee mug. Jon thought it was funny, at least.]
Edited 2020-12-25 14:17 (UTC)
[ A neatly wrapped package waits for Chris on New Year's Eve, holding a knife. It's accompanied by a card with a hand-written note inside. ]
Chris,
Your gifts found me well, and I appreciate them greatly. I'd love to join you.
I have some news of my own to share - I appear to have been reclassified as a Dominant. I don't know how it's happened, but it seems to be real rather than some fever dream.
If I ever can use my position to help you, know that I would.
All the best,
Diane, the Duchess Tremontaine
Chris,
Your gifts found me well, and I appreciate them greatly. I'd love to join you.
I have some news of my own to share - I appear to have been reclassified as a Dominant. I don't know how it's happened, but it seems to be real rather than some fever dream.
If I ever can use my position to help you, know that I would.
All the best,
Diane, the Duchess Tremontaine
[He'd send her a text, but this seemed too important for that.]
Thank you for the dagger, that'll be easier to carry than my scythe.
I've got to ask, though: they seriously switched you? No notice or request of you or trick in the shadows?
[Jon had talked about it before, the whole designation switch even being a thing and trying to find information on it.]
Thank you for the dagger, that'll be easier to carry than my scythe.
I've got to ask, though: they seriously switched you? No notice or request of you or trick in the shadows?
[Jon had talked about it before, the whole designation switch even being a thing and trying to find information on it.]
It never hurts to be do what you can in this place, and I can buy these things with less...looks now.
And yes. Informed me I was living in the wrong housing and that I needed to move at 'my earliest convenience'.
And yes. Informed me I was living in the wrong housing and that I needed to move at 'my earliest convenience'.
[He hummed in consideration.]
Alright. It's...probably not a trick. Apparently, it can just happen, did to a friend of mine way back. Just don't be surprised if no one but those like us remember things were different, but it shouldn't give you trouble, per his experience.
[There's a pause and a small smile comes through his tone.]
Suits you better, though.
Alright. It's...probably not a trick. Apparently, it can just happen, did to a friend of mine way back. Just don't be surprised if no one but those like us remember things were different, but it shouldn't give you trouble, per his experience.
[There's a pause and a small smile comes through his tone.]
Suits you better, though.
Thank you, and for the information. It eases me somewhat.
And I told you because I can't imagine keeping such a thing from you, and because I hope you know that my offer of aid stands.
And I told you because I can't imagine keeping such a thing from you, and because I hope you know that my offer of aid stands.
That means a lot. I do know it and I'll remember it, Diane. Thank you.
A small package is delivered to Chris wrapped in shimmering silver paper. Within is an obsidian and tiger's eye bracelet with a singular glowing bead within it.
There's a note attached written in dark ink with a careful, neat penmanship.
Chris,
From almost the moment I came to this place, you have looked out for me, been my friend, and shown me just how resilient a person can be. You're one of the best people I've ever known, and while we're stuck here, I'm thankful every day that I know you because of this place.
If you ever need it, the magic in the bead can grant a burst of energy, speed or strength. It can also send out a call to whoever you're thinking of when you hold it and think of the person.
It's one of my first magical workings, and inspired by you being there for me that day we met.
You're one of the best people I've ever known.
Caleb
There's a note attached written in dark ink with a careful, neat penmanship.
Chris,
From almost the moment I came to this place, you have looked out for me, been my friend, and shown me just how resilient a person can be. You're one of the best people I've ever known, and while we're stuck here, I'm thankful every day that I know you because of this place.
If you ever need it, the magic in the bead can grant a burst of energy, speed or strength. It can also send out a call to whoever you're thinking of when you hold it and think of the person.
It's one of my first magical workings, and inspired by you being there for me that day we met.
You're one of the best people I've ever known.
Caleb
[Chris sends Caleb a picture of the bracelet on his wrist where it will likely be found on him as readily as his holy symbol.]
You turn a pretty phrase, Caleb. Thank you for the gift
and everything else as well
You turn a pretty phrase, Caleb. Thank you for the gift
and everything else as well
When you came to me with a beautiful invitation, I couldn't help myself. Especially when you go out of your way to protect me. It means a lot.
I would love to meet you at the beach for the new year, as well.
I would love to meet you at the beach for the new year, as well.
Then I'll see you after dark. Bring the candle and an empty stomach.
Maybe a coat, it might be cold.
Maybe a coat, it might be cold.
| ❝ | DUPLICITY CITATION No. 54862 30th December 2020 Violation: Acting against Designation & Assaulting a Dominant Fine: $100 fine and a public spanking/flogging. Payments must be received within 30 calendar days, or debts will be handed over to the Remittance Facility. | ❞ |
Hey. Things have been kind of weird and been working a few things out but wanted to tell you something.
I'm contracted again. His name is Eliot Waugh. He's kind of new to the city, and he'll be handling some of the productions at the theatre. You may have met him.
I just wanted you to know I wasn't taking a risk with that and I'm secure in that way. I think it's going to be okay this time. I kind of got a few days with his thoughts open to me and we agree about a lot.
I'm contracted again. His name is Eliot Waugh. He's kind of new to the city, and he'll be handling some of the productions at the theatre. You may have met him.
I just wanted you to know I wasn't taking a risk with that and I'm secure in that way. I think it's going to be okay this time. I kind of got a few days with his thoughts open to me and we agree about a lot.
Think I've seen him, haven't done much more than the simple howdoyoudos, but you know I keep to myself.
So you rang the bell thing with him? Heard a bit of it from others. Guess that's the best way to know a guy for certain. I trust your judgement on it, you don't seem the type to make the same mistake twice. This one'll be better, Caleb.
If he's not, I'll turn his insides out and you know it.
So you rang the bell thing with him? Heard a bit of it from others. Guess that's the best way to know a guy for certain. I trust your judgement on it, you don't seem the type to make the same mistake twice. This one'll be better, Caleb.
If he's not, I'll turn his insides out and you know it.
Edited 2021-01-12 21:19 (UTC)
Yeah, we got shoved together for it. Least it was someone I knew already.
I hate the whole emotions things being forced like that. I really hate that part, for both our sake.
But for a contract it's maybe a good thing. No, it really is.
But promise, I make the same mistake twice, you're free too... and you're in charge of all future contracts.
I just really wanted you to know that I'm not taking that chance and I'm pretty safe right now. For Duplicity levels of safe.
I hate the whole emotions things being forced like that. I really hate that part, for both our sake.
But for a contract it's maybe a good thing. No, it really is.
But promise, I make the same mistake twice, you're free too... and you're in charge of all future contracts.
I just really wanted you to know that I'm not taking that chance and I'm pretty safe right now. For Duplicity levels of safe.
I'll hold you to that.
I appreciate you telling me and, really, I'm glad to hear it. You deserve some measure of comfort.
I appreciate you telling me and, really, I'm glad to hear it. You deserve some measure of comfort.
Thanks, Chris. That means a lot to me.
I'll do my best to try and stay out of trouble. For definition of what trouble is.
I'll do my best to try and stay out of trouble. For definition of what trouble is.
The definition, sure. The other kind, the kind with the wall you mentioned before, have at
early and often, in fact
early and often, in fact
I definitely need more of that kind of trouble with you.
Though us and trouble has been a thing since the start.
Though us and trouble has been a thing since the start.
I'm not hard to find, you know.
We should make a night of it. Time out, then time in, and we can continue our trouble tradition.
We should make a night of it. Time out, then time in, and we can continue our trouble tradition.
Forgive me for tracking you down, it took me a bit to find the right person. I will be starting a jail and realignment sentence soon for a horrific act I committed when I lost my love and my emotions. It is for a singular act I committed but not all of them.
It's not for the horrific attack I perpetrated on you. If you want to contact the sin guards and report me so that it can be added to my sentence, I'll be starting my sentence in two days.
If you would rather handle it yourself, I'll be locked up for 2 weeks.
There is no apology great enough for what I did. There is no excuse. I'm sorry that I risked others out of obsession and what I mistook for love. Whatever punishment you deem fit for my attack on you, I will stand by it.
It's not for the horrific attack I perpetrated on you. If you want to contact the sin guards and report me so that it can be added to my sentence, I'll be starting my sentence in two days.
If you would rather handle it yourself, I'll be locked up for 2 weeks.
There is no apology great enough for what I did. There is no excuse. I'm sorry that I risked others out of obsession and what I mistook for love. Whatever punishment you deem fit for my attack on you, I will stand by it.
I'll not be making a victim out of the man who turned me to one, let me say that right now. You're going to jail for something unrelated to me, it'll continue to have nothing to do with me.
Beyond that, what I want's not an apology through words, they won't take the fear from me you left behind.
However, I've attacked those most dear to me while my arms and thoughts weren't my own, I'm not unreasonable or unwilling to listen.
I'll see you in 2 weeks.
Beyond that, what I want's not an apology through words, they won't take the fear from me you left behind.
However, I've attacked those most dear to me while my arms and thoughts weren't my own, I'm not unreasonable or unwilling to listen.
I'll see you in 2 weeks.
((Continued from here))
Festival leads them outside and the fresh air helps to clear his head a bit as well as make him uncomfortably aware of the rawness in his eyes tears left. He hated crying. He hated this feeling, a mixture of shame and anger and frustration and guilt. Yet when Festival apologizes first, Chris looks up, eyes wide and brows high.
"What're you to be apologizing for? I'm the one who all but put my fist through your 'temple' wall cause it suited me. You're right, I messed up those people's nights out without care for thought of them for even a moment. I hurt them and I didn't care! You've nothing to be sorry about."
Especially since, by all rights, Chris still didn't care even now that he knew to look at it that way...he cared more about it mattering to Festival.
Festival leads them outside and the fresh air helps to clear his head a bit as well as make him uncomfortably aware of the rawness in his eyes tears left. He hated crying. He hated this feeling, a mixture of shame and anger and frustration and guilt. Yet when Festival apologizes first, Chris looks up, eyes wide and brows high.
"What're you to be apologizing for? I'm the one who all but put my fist through your 'temple' wall cause it suited me. You're right, I messed up those people's nights out without care for thought of them for even a moment. I hurt them and I didn't care! You've nothing to be sorry about."
Especially since, by all rights, Chris still didn't care even now that he knew to look at it that way...he cared more about it mattering to Festival.
Edited 2021-04-26 18:31 (UTC)
Festival opens his mouth, then closes it again speechlessly. He was expecting a protest to which he thinks Chris has a right after he took it so much farther than they'd agreed upon, airing his personal grievance for their audience and taking advantage of the city's punishment to get his own in.
Finally words come to him again. "I...I won't deny that I was upset when I heard. But you didn't agree to what I just did. I ought to have been able to tell you without...without striking you."
Finally words come to him again. "I...I won't deny that I was upset when I heard. But you didn't agree to what I just did. I ought to have been able to tell you without...without striking you."
((Continued from here))
He shoots Festival an unimpressed look for his dramatic tone. "Wasn't the same, yours' understandable mine was selfish and bitter. That's not the point."
He shifts the image back to Rhyt's face and for a moment he wishes he could give it more color than the purple his simple illusions come in. He wishes he could show how blue her eyes are and how striking he always finds it compared to her red hair; the two major differences between them. But Festival's direct and indirect question both came back to her, in the end.
"This is Rhyt Sonom. My twin sister. She was still in the city when our enemies attacked and as the leader of it, she defended it to her death. I've got her back now with some help and some luck, but I know...for her I'd go to war with Zenethil in a heartbeat. They didn't just cause her death, they murdered her." And he was never good at being the forgiving sort.
His expression soft, he brought a hand up as though he could trace a thumb down her cheek, then pulls his hand back and fades out the image with a sigh. "On the other hand...war is terrible and I'm the head of a city that was largely evil until three years ago, if they burned it to the ground thinking that were still true, don't know that I could blame them...so a talk's needed." He looked over to Festival with a small smile. "Not everything's to be solved with fists in people's faces."
He shoots Festival an unimpressed look for his dramatic tone. "Wasn't the same, yours' understandable mine was selfish and bitter. That's not the point."
He shifts the image back to Rhyt's face and for a moment he wishes he could give it more color than the purple his simple illusions come in. He wishes he could show how blue her eyes are and how striking he always finds it compared to her red hair; the two major differences between them. But Festival's direct and indirect question both came back to her, in the end.
"This is Rhyt Sonom. My twin sister. She was still in the city when our enemies attacked and as the leader of it, she defended it to her death. I've got her back now with some help and some luck, but I know...for her I'd go to war with Zenethil in a heartbeat. They didn't just cause her death, they murdered her." And he was never good at being the forgiving sort.
His expression soft, he brought a hand up as though he could trace a thumb down her cheek, then pulls his hand back and fades out the image with a sigh. "On the other hand...war is terrible and I'm the head of a city that was largely evil until three years ago, if they burned it to the ground thinking that were still true, don't know that I could blame them...so a talk's needed." He looked over to Festival with a small smile. "Not everything's to be solved with fists in people's faces."
Edited 2021-04-26 18:49 (UTC)
For a moment, Festival realizes he's seriously put his foot in it, his gaze torn away from the illusory face to Chris as he's already opening his mouth to apologize. But...got her back. He sucks in a breath; he knows all too well that coming back doesn't erase the dying.
The smile he offers now is weaker. "Not everything," he agrees quietly. "Some things, to be certain, but not everything. You'll know once you've spoken with them, and whatever comes next will be better for knowing."
The smile he offers now is weaker. "Not everything," he agrees quietly. "Some things, to be certain, but not everything. You'll know once you've spoken with them, and whatever comes next will be better for knowing."
[ A carefully-wrapped package makes its way to Chris's residence. Inside are a collection of sugared fruits, nuts, chocolates, and toffee. There's also a selection of various teas, some to promote energy and focus, and some to assist in sleep
There's also a small set of bath oils in colored vials, and a woven sachet of lavender to help induce sleep.
A note accompanies the gifts, written in a familiar, elegant cursive. ]
Such is the way of healers that often the last person we tend to is ourselves. Fortunate that we have a way of befriending one another, so that we may have someone looking after our well-being.
Use these in good health, my friend. Light go with you.
- A.W.
There's also a small set of bath oils in colored vials, and a woven sachet of lavender to help induce sleep.
A note accompanies the gifts, written in a familiar, elegant cursive. ]
Use these in good health, my friend. Light go with you.
- A.W.
[The care package is met with a touched fondness and chris is quick to pen a letter in response. He could just talk to Anduin, could just text him, but this was more fun. More like home.]
Dear friend,
Your gifts are much appreciated and will happily find use. I am glad we’ve found each other to watch our backs, it makes the task lighter and worthwhile to carry.
My custom for gift giving comes at the turn of the year along with a candle lighting ceremony meant to represent a light of hope lit at the eve of the future. You and yours are more than welcome to join me at the tide pools on the beach when the last day of the year turns and light your candles alongside mine, but know you’ll be in my thoughts for it all the same.
May the Light go with you and the best of the Raven’s wing fall far from your heel.
Chris
Dear friend,
Your gifts are much appreciated and will happily find use. I am glad we’ve found each other to watch our backs, it makes the task lighter and worthwhile to carry.
My custom for gift giving comes at the turn of the year along with a candle lighting ceremony meant to represent a light of hope lit at the eve of the future. You and yours are more than welcome to join me at the tide pools on the beach when the last day of the year turns and light your candles alongside mine, but know you’ll be in my thoughts for it all the same.
May the Light go with you and the best of the Raven’s wing fall far from your heel.
Chris
[On the morning of the 25th, Chris and Festival will awake to packages addressed to them on their doorstep. The one for Chris is small and contains a silver bangle with raven heads at the ends. There's a simple note:
At least you're thematically easy to buy for.
-Jon]
At least you're thematically easy to buy for.
-Jon]
[ On Christmas morning, Chris will wake up to a stocking hanging on the end of his bed. It's full of festive baked goods, all freshly made. On top is a long wrapped box, and inside, there's a knife. It has a jewelled hilt, and of course each of the five stones is charmed.
The red one lights the blade on fire. The blue one turns it icy, and the black one converts it into a strange, shadow blade. The silver stone projects a 2ft large radial shield around the wielder. The gold stone makes the knife heal what it touches, instead of injuring. It comes with a fine leather hilt, and a rolled up scroll which gives instructions.
There's a tag tied to the box, which only says: ]
Happy Yuletide!
N
The red one lights the blade on fire. The blue one turns it icy, and the black one converts it into a strange, shadow blade. The silver stone projects a 2ft large radial shield around the wielder. The gold stone makes the knife heal what it touches, instead of injuring. It comes with a fine leather hilt, and a rolled up scroll which gives instructions.
There's a tag tied to the box, which only says: ]
Happy Yuletide!
N
you know just the way to a guy’s heart
and now, with a bit more ease, so do I.
Thank you, Happy Yuletide!
and now, with a bit more ease, so do I.
Thank you, Happy Yuletide!
[ Nate just thinks he's being nice. He doesn't know what trouble might come from it, and really he should be suspicious, because nothing in Duplicity is ever what it seems.
But despite that, he still sends a bunch of the black roses, to Chris. There's a little card naming him as the sender. ]
But despite that, he still sends a bunch of the black roses, to Chris. There's a little card naming him as the sender. ]
Well how can I refuse an invitation like that?
Should I bring anything?
Should I bring anything?
If you're going to want to pet the cat, bring treats for the cat. Otherwise no.
Why’s everyone into cats or has one?
What kinds of treats? Meat? Biscuits?
What kinds of treats? Meat? Biscuits?
I don't know about everyone but I have one because I hate being alone and like assholes.
He'll eat anything just give him his token treat.
He'll eat anything just give him his token treat.
Well that follows.
Alright, be there soon.
[Very soon, in fact, and with his bit of chicken in a paper towel in hand, he knocks at the door. When Crais answers, Chris’ greeting is a smarmy smile]
You miss my dulcet tones already?
Alright, be there soon.
[Very soon, in fact, and with his bit of chicken in a paper towel in hand, he knocks at the door. When Crais answers, Chris’ greeting is a smarmy smile]
You miss my dulcet tones already?
[ The second Crais opens the door, the tabby is winding around Chris' ankles and making annoying noises. Look, Crais is training him to be happy about guests - that Crais often thrusts him upon as a means of disarming said guests. ]
Yes, actually, but if you even think of actually singing and I 'll throw you out again.
[ He's smiling a bit. It's not a serious threat, just... Crais. ]
Yes, actually, but if you even think of actually singing and I 'll throw you out again.
[ He's smiling a bit. It's not a serious threat, just... Crais. ]
[Despite any kvetching, Chris doesn’t hesitate to crouch down and offer his piece of chicken to the little tabby.]
Hey there, small one. An offering for ya…
[He looks up at Crais, that smile back in place.]
No fears, I’m a passable singer, but more likely to sweep you into a dance if I fancied.
Hey there, small one. An offering for ya…
[He looks up at Crais, that smile back in place.]
No fears, I’m a passable singer, but more likely to sweep you into a dance if I fancied.
[ Slyvester takes the chicken with delight, and much purring. He's honestly a very nice cat, even if Crais called him an asshole. ]
I can't even pretend you're that sort of person. The cat's occupied, come join me in the kitchen. I'll feed you to make up for demanding your attention.
I can't even pretend you're that sort of person. The cat's occupied, come join me in the kitchen. I'll feed you to make up for demanding your attention.
[He hums a bit to himself.]
Ah...yes, now I see why you've got the cat. Alright, deal.
[He does give the little thing a few scritches before leaving him to his prize to follow Crais.]
You're welcome to my attention so long as it's not elsewhere in more need, which honestly isn't often. Anything on your mind or just a cooking bug and needed a ready mouth?
Ah...yes, now I see why you've got the cat. Alright, deal.
[He does give the little thing a few scritches before leaving him to his prize to follow Crais.]
You're welcome to my attention so long as it's not elsewhere in more need, which honestly isn't often. Anything on your mind or just a cooking bug and needed a ready mouth?
If I invited you over to make use of your mouth, I wouldn't be cooking.
[ He's a little caught off guard by that statement but only in a way that actually makes him laugh. This guy is... a lot more than he appears, in several ways. The wicked sense of humor is a nice surprise. ]
Let me feed you the food, first. Then we can discuss the rest.
[ He's a little caught off guard by that statement but only in a way that actually makes him laugh. This guy is... a lot more than he appears, in several ways. The wicked sense of humor is a nice surprise. ]
Let me feed you the food, first. Then we can discuss the rest.
[He shrugs.]
I dunno what you're into. Grew up in a brothel, lotsa people into lotsa things.
[But the smile and humor in his voice give away that he definitely doesn't think Crais is into anything he might be implying.
Teasing was just a fun pastime.]
I'm all yours, what's on the menu, then?
[He'll follow Crais into the kitchen and waste no time in ploping himself up on the countertop.]
I dunno what you're into. Grew up in a brothel, lotsa people into lotsa things.
[But the smile and humor in his voice give away that he definitely doesn't think Crais is into anything he might be implying.
Teasing was just a fun pastime.]
I'm all yours, what's on the menu, then?
[He'll follow Crais into the kitchen and waste no time in ploping himself up on the countertop.]
[ He doesn't think Crais might be into... oral sex? Because Crais is absolutely into having his dick sucked, thank you.
He moves to grab a dishtowel to pull a pan out of the oven, and set it on top of the stove. ]
Potatoes with gravy. It's cheese short of being poutine, but cheese and I have a questionable relationship. Grew up in a brothel?
He moves to grab a dishtowel to pull a pan out of the oven, and set it on top of the stove. ]
Potatoes with gravy. It's cheese short of being poutine, but cheese and I have a questionable relationship. Grew up in a brothel?
[The fuck’s poutine? Well, potatoes with cheese, he supposes.]
Sounds wonderful. But, yeah…“Swallow’s Charm” was home sweet home from the age of four to twenty-two.
Sounds wonderful. But, yeah…“Swallow’s Charm” was home sweet home from the age of four to twenty-two.
[ Given their wildly different time periods and realities their confusion over things is strangely similar. Crais enjoys the food aspects of that confusion though.
He gets busy plating up the fries and gravy and finding forks. ]
I'd like to be surprised or appalled but we had children born and growing up on Command Carriers - military ships. I'll settle for concerned.
He gets busy plating up the fries and gravy and finding forks. ]
I'd like to be surprised or appalled but we had children born and growing up on Command Carriers - military ships. I'll settle for concerned.
[Theres a surge of defensiveness in him that he quickly tamps down on. Other brothels certainly had such practices and Chris hadn’t been specific, it’s not Crais’ fault.]
Ah..well, valid feelings, but they’re not needed on my behalf, I didn’t do much work there until I was sixteen-on and even then, only man I bedded was one I picked, wasn’t allowed on the menu otherwise.
My official title was ‘companion’ when I had skirts about me, I gave people company and listened to their stories and woes. When I shed the skirts, turned more to security.
[He shakes his head]
Lady Ivaline woulda skinned anyone who so looked at me. She took me in to protect me from those who wanted a child dead.
Ah..well, valid feelings, but they’re not needed on my behalf, I didn’t do much work there until I was sixteen-on and even then, only man I bedded was one I picked, wasn’t allowed on the menu otherwise.
My official title was ‘companion’ when I had skirts about me, I gave people company and listened to their stories and woes. When I shed the skirts, turned more to security.
[He shakes his head]
Lady Ivaline woulda skinned anyone who so looked at me. She took me in to protect me from those who wanted a child dead.
that is definitely better than starting to train children to kill people when they're five.
[ He just accepts what he's told. He knows nothing about most people's world's here so what he's told is... what is. It's freeing in some ways.
Meanwhile he hands Chris his prepared plate of food and plates his own up. Yeah Chris, go ahead and eat on the counter. He'll settle in beside you shortly.]
[ He just accepts what he's told. He knows nothing about most people's world's here so what he's told is... what is. It's freeing in some ways.
Meanwhile he hands Chris his prepared plate of food and plates his own up. Yeah Chris, go ahead and eat on the counter. He'll settle in beside you shortly.]
No, that’d be my twin.
[He takes the food, yes on the counter, with a small ‘thank you’ and happily takes a bite of fries with gravy. Great use of fries or chips or whatever they’re called, honestly.]
She was taken in by an assassin group and raised for one. We each had our role to play.
[Even if it had taken time for Chris to fall into his.]
Were you one of those children you mention, born into such a life?
[He takes the food, yes on the counter, with a small ‘thank you’ and happily takes a bite of fries with gravy. Great use of fries or chips or whatever they’re called, honestly.]
She was taken in by an assassin group and raised for one. We each had our role to play.
[Even if it had taken time for Chris to fall into his.]
Were you one of those children you mention, born into such a life?
Role to play.
[ Echoed blandly, but not with judgement. He might resent those implications a little but that's not about Chris or his sibling, it's his own shit coming out to play.
Speaking of. ]
No.
[ He takes a bite, and then elaborates. ]
My brother and I were part of a handful of conscripts when I was in my early teens. I spent most of my actual childhood in an agricultural community.
[ Echoed blandly, but not with judgement. He might resent those implications a little but that's not about Chris or his sibling, it's his own shit coming out to play.
Speaking of. ]
No.
[ He takes a bite, and then elaborates. ]
My brother and I were part of a handful of conscripts when I was in my early teens. I spent most of my actual childhood in an agricultural community.
[Chris is patient for the explanation, happy to busy himself with his own food.
Crais says agriculture and for a moment, there's an almost starry look in his eye at the thought. Farming and ranching were a novelty, Melvaunt's ground wasn't rich enough to support either, which was why so many people were fishermen or manufacturers or soldiers. There was something charming to the idea of working with the land like that, even if Chris had only ever picked up one of those little hand trowels because Chastity had shoved it at him.
Then the rest registers, particularly 'conscript' and Chris' eyes narrow a moment.]
So you and he were still forced into the war, just not from birth.
[Was it better or worse to not know another life? He supposes he wouldn't know.]
Were you able to stay together, at least?
Crais says agriculture and for a moment, there's an almost starry look in his eye at the thought. Farming and ranching were a novelty, Melvaunt's ground wasn't rich enough to support either, which was why so many people were fishermen or manufacturers or soldiers. There was something charming to the idea of working with the land like that, even if Chris had only ever picked up one of those little hand trowels because Chastity had shoved it at him.
Then the rest registers, particularly 'conscript' and Chris' eyes narrow a moment.]
So you and he were still forced into the war, just not from birth.
[Was it better or worse to not know another life? He supposes he wouldn't know.]
Were you able to stay together, at least?
[ Common misunderstanding he should have anticipated. He's still not used to sanity in these things, but- ]
No war. Not of our own. We were effectively a very large mercenary group, to which most were born to, some where conscripted to, and almost no one voluntarily joined. We fought wars for the highest bidder.
And yes, Tauvo and I stayed together.
No war. Not of our own. We were effectively a very large mercenary group, to which most were born to, some where conscripted to, and almost no one voluntarily joined. We fought wars for the highest bidder.
And yes, Tauvo and I stayed together.
[He had no opinions on mercenaries or mercenary work in general, but a whole group like that, one that could even conscript? That was a private army waiting to happen and, by the sounds of it, did.
Terrifying in concept, especially when he can just picture how a city like Mulmaster or Zenethil might use such a thing..
He shakes his head.]
I hate that. Sorry it happened to you both.
Terrifying in concept, especially when he can just picture how a city like Mulmaster or Zenethil might use such a thing..
He shakes his head.]
I hate that. Sorry it happened to you both.
I appreciate the compassion and sense behind that statement, but it's a system tens of thousands of years old and while I didn't enjoy it, it was also completely normal while I was within it and if I'm traumatized I haven't noticed.
[ He does however recognize that it's terrible, but also he's dead. ]
Eat. We can go cuddle or something when we've finished.
[ He does however recognize that it's terrible, but also he's dead. ]
Eat. We can go cuddle or something when we've finished.
[There’s, honestly, plenty of sense in that. It was similar to how he felt about the assassination of his family. Plenty were angry for him. He didn’t remember them or the event, it wasn’t his trauma.]
I hear you. Not worried for it so much as the thought scares me, but you’re right: it is what it is, and what it isn’t is here.
[But he’ll turn back to his food. It affords him a chance to figure out the emotions for what he needs to say. At least he doesn’t feel the need to pick his words carefully with Crais.]
I’m not a great cuddler unless it’s after sex or going to bed, but I can try.
Though, if you’re into having your hair pet, my lap makes an excellent pillow.
I hear you. Not worried for it so much as the thought scares me, but you’re right: it is what it is, and what it isn’t is here.
[But he’ll turn back to his food. It affords him a chance to figure out the emotions for what he needs to say. At least he doesn’t feel the need to pick his words carefully with Crais.]
I’m not a great cuddler unless it’s after sex or going to bed, but I can try.
Though, if you’re into having your hair pet, my lap makes an excellent pillow.
[ He really likes Chris.
He really really likes Chris. ]
I want to sit down and I like physical contact. You can pet my hair or we can forego the contact. The part I'm determined about is sitting on an upholstered surface.
He really really likes Chris. ]
I want to sit down and I like physical contact. You can pet my hair or we can forego the contact. The part I'm determined about is sitting on an upholstered surface.
[Chris laughs, bright and not unlike a bark, but earnest. There was what made Crais so endearing and why Chris had been willing to try and cuddle until his inevitable fidgeting discomfort rolled up.]
What, counter’s not good enough for you? Fine, couch it’ll be, but I want at your hair for a bit. It’s relaxing.
[And, with that, he will finish up his food.]
What, counter’s not good enough for you? Fine, couch it’ll be, but I want at your hair for a bit. It’s relaxing.
[And, with that, he will finish up his food.]
Edited 2022-02-07 22:45 (UTC)
Some of us are less inclined to perching.
[Tease about the bird and wings? Yes. But he puts all their dishes in the sink and then heads into the living room, working on getting his ponytail unwrapped so he can take it down for Chris.]
Can you elaborate on the not being a fan of cuddling, so I can avoid anything similar in the future?
[Tease about the bird and wings? Yes. But he puts all their dishes in the sink and then heads into the living room, working on getting his ponytail unwrapped so he can take it down for Chris.]
Can you elaborate on the not being a fan of cuddling, so I can avoid anything similar in the future?
[If Chris looks like he’s preening a bit under the tease, it’s cause he is. He does perch.
He follows Crais to the living room and takes one side of the couch to give as much room for stretching out as possible.]
I can try. Not always good at words. You’re a little easier for my head, though.
[He pats his lap. Doing something with his hands will help.
Once he can get his fingers into Crais’ hair, he picks through the feeling as carefully as the strands.]
It’s..not that I don’t like it or can’t do it, not even that I can’t sit still when I want to, but physical affection’s always been…harder’n it should be. Not sex, mind, that’s easy, but holding hands, hugs, cuddling, the like.
[He smiles to himself, but there’s some sadness to it.]
I’ve got..two beautiful men back home, love ‘em dearly but I…forget to say it. Forget to take their hands, kiss ‘em goodnight or goodbye. I have to remind myself it’s what they want. They do it as easy as breathing, but when they want to hold me, it’s like a vibration starts under my skin and eventually it’s too much.
[He shakes his head, focus fully on the hair in his hands.]
Dunno why, I’m just bad at love and affection. Luckily, they’ve got each other for it too, for when I forget.
He follows Crais to the living room and takes one side of the couch to give as much room for stretching out as possible.]
I can try. Not always good at words. You’re a little easier for my head, though.
[He pats his lap. Doing something with his hands will help.
Once he can get his fingers into Crais’ hair, he picks through the feeling as carefully as the strands.]
It’s..not that I don’t like it or can’t do it, not even that I can’t sit still when I want to, but physical affection’s always been…harder’n it should be. Not sex, mind, that’s easy, but holding hands, hugs, cuddling, the like.
[He smiles to himself, but there’s some sadness to it.]
I’ve got..two beautiful men back home, love ‘em dearly but I…forget to say it. Forget to take their hands, kiss ‘em goodnight or goodbye. I have to remind myself it’s what they want. They do it as easy as breathing, but when they want to hold me, it’s like a vibration starts under my skin and eventually it’s too much.
[He shakes his head, focus fully on the hair in his hands.]
Dunno why, I’m just bad at love and affection. Luckily, they’ve got each other for it too, for when I forget.
[ Crais is not particularly tall and has no intention of putting his feet on the couch, anyway, so there's plenty of room for him to use Chris' lap as a pillow and have his ankles and feet just off the end and over the arm.
His hair is surprisingly fluffy. It's also curly and fine and prone to tangling, so the care is appreciated.
Crais listens to all of that without a change in expression until near the end and then-]
That made perfectly good sense, except 'bad at love'.
His hair is surprisingly fluffy. It's also curly and fine and prone to tangling, so the care is appreciated.
Crais listens to all of that without a change in expression until near the end and then-]
That made perfectly good sense, except 'bad at love'.
[Now Chris is confused, but it doesn’t stop him from working small braids into Crais’ hair. Nothing fancy.]
What’d you mean? If I can’t express what I’m feeling, generally means I’m bad for it, to my mind.
What’d you mean? If I can’t express what I’m feeling, generally means I’m bad for it, to my mind.
[ He may have a minor concern about what is being done to his hair but he isn't interested in stopping the conversation to investigate. ]
It's an emotion and you made sure their needs were met. I'm not sure how you can be bad at an emotion or how not ensuring that their needs were met, as well as your own, is a lack of expression of it.
It's an emotion and you made sure their needs were met. I'm not sure how you can be bad at an emotion or how not ensuring that their needs were met, as well as your own, is a lack of expression of it.
[He shakes his head again, a crease forming between his brows.]
But I’m not certain their needs are being taken care of, least not from me. I said I try to remember or remind myself, not that I always succeed. And those two..well, I don’t know that I trust them to say anything. Kallian’s too forgiving and Ra’ah’s starved enough he’ll take whatever I give him.
Gods forbid anyone be fool enough to fall for me here; there’re much more useful fish in this sea.
[Nope. He doesn’t like the way they look, time to undo them.]
But I’m not certain their needs are being taken care of, least not from me. I said I try to remember or remind myself, not that I always succeed. And those two..well, I don’t know that I trust them to say anything. Kallian’s too forgiving and Ra’ah’s starved enough he’ll take whatever I give him.
Gods forbid anyone be fool enough to fall for me here; there’re much more useful fish in this sea.
[Nope. He doesn’t like the way they look, time to undo them.]
I didn't say you were meeting their needs, I said their needs were being met.
[ just floating that out there. ]
I can't stand being alone. Cyram is a cat and he roams. I am incredibly tactile. There are times Cyram can't stand being touched. I don't like sleeping alone; he doesn't sleep. I actively dislike most romantic gestures; he writes poetry.
Cyram wears a tracker in his dominant bracelet so I can find him should I need to and know that he is safe. We have a cat. We both have other relationships with people better suited to meeting specific needs.
I dare you to tell me we are bad at love.
[ Not angry or sharp just kind of exasperated.]
[ just floating that out there. ]
I can't stand being alone. Cyram is a cat and he roams. I am incredibly tactile. There are times Cyram can't stand being touched. I don't like sleeping alone; he doesn't sleep. I actively dislike most romantic gestures; he writes poetry.
Cyram wears a tracker in his dominant bracelet so I can find him should I need to and know that he is safe. We have a cat. We both have other relationships with people better suited to meeting specific needs.
I dare you to tell me we are bad at love.
[ Not angry or sharp just kind of exasperated.]
[No…that made sense. When he watched them in bed together, saying goodbye, even just being…bards together, they looked happy. They looked at him that way too and he still can’t imagine why. If what they need is each other, what in any hell is Chris providing?
But that wasn’t they were talking about, what was asked, so it sinks back down where it belongs. The confusion doesn’t completely fade, but he takes a moment to reach up and run a thumb over Crais’ cheek.]
Stop making sense, it isn’t fair.
[He sighs.]
I’d never say that, told you before it sounded good for you and it does.
But that wasn’t they were talking about, what was asked, so it sinks back down where it belongs. The confusion doesn’t completely fade, but he takes a moment to reach up and run a thumb over Crais’ cheek.]
Stop making sense, it isn’t fair.
[He sighs.]
I’d never say that, told you before it sounded good for you and it does.
Good. Now shall we talk about why you think you need to be a useful fish? [ That certainly doesn't involve making any sense, because what the frelling fuck. ] Or move on to how you aren't actively playing with my hair at this second and should be.
One of those I can fix.
[He says it with a smile, as much as part of him wants to run from that line of questioning.
His fingers work through the extra kinks his braiding had temporarily put in the strands and continues his hunt for tangles.]
We don’t have to talk about any of it, you know. We could talk about how pretty your hair is.
[He says it with a smile, as much as part of him wants to run from that line of questioning.
His fingers work through the extra kinks his braiding had temporarily put in the strands and continues his hunt for tangles.]
We don’t have to talk about any of it, you know. We could talk about how pretty your hair is.
We can talk about how pretty my hair is. I'm very fond of it.
[ He also closes his eyes in utter contentment having it played with, and doesn't bother telling Chris he lets very few people so much as touch it. ]
I really do not understand the fish comment, though.
[ He also closes his eyes in utter contentment having it played with, and doesn't bother telling Chris he lets very few people so much as touch it. ]
I really do not understand the fish comment, though.
Do you leave it down very often?
[He can do both, right? Like some weird version of twenty questions.]
And do you know the saying ‘there are other fish in the sea?’
[He can do both, right? Like some weird version of twenty questions.]
And do you know the saying ‘there are other fish in the sea?’
I never leave it down. I think there are three people in this city who have even seen it down.
[ One is Chris, one is Cyram and the other is ...Ephemera. He thinks. Anyway. ]
I've also never heard that saying. What does it actually mean?
[ One is Chris, one is Cyram and the other is ...Ephemera. He thinks. Anyway. ]
I've also never heard that saying. What does it actually mean?
Then I’m honored.
[Truly.]
It’s meant as something to say when you don’t get with the person you want. Like trying to catch a fish, if you miss it, then there’re other fish to be found. That sorta thing.
[Truly.]
It’s meant as something to say when you don’t get with the person you want. Like trying to catch a fish, if you miss it, then there’re other fish to be found. That sorta thing.
All right.
[Easily enough that one but- ]
What does useful have to do with it?
[Easily enough that one but- ]
What does useful have to do with it?
[Why’d he ever open his mouth to any of this? Now he’s just lost the thread of it himself.]
I just mean there’s a whole arrangement of people from every stripe of world. I would hope none would fall for the likes of me when there’s plenty else who can see to their needs better.
[He’d had Lux here. He loved Lux and he knew Lux had loved him, but he’d been a sex demon, progenitor of lust and near-on god. He hadn’t needed anything from Chris from the start.]
I just mean there’s a whole arrangement of people from every stripe of world. I would hope none would fall for the likes of me when there’s plenty else who can see to their needs better.
[He’d had Lux here. He loved Lux and he knew Lux had loved him, but he’d been a sex demon, progenitor of lust and near-on god. He hadn’t needed anything from Chris from the start.]
There's a happy arrangement for people of every sort... except you?
[ Chris. What? ]
[ Chris. What? ]
[He shakes his head again and decidedly doesn't look at Crais, just his hair.]
No, that's not... [There's that choking feeling in the back of his throat that suffocates his words.]
I've...I had.
[Gods dammit. He swallows around nothing and pushes through other words, a different track to keep moving.]
Forget it. It's not important leastways, not a problem to worry about until it is, so don't mind it.
No, that's not... [There's that choking feeling in the back of his throat that suffocates his words.]
I've...I had.
[Gods dammit. He swallows around nothing and pushes through other words, a different track to keep moving.]
Forget it. It's not important leastways, not a problem to worry about until it is, so don't mind it.
All right.
[ He does move on because he can read both the... discomfort and he was told to. ]
How much of the food here have you had opportunity to experiment with?
[ He does move on because he can read both the... discomfort and he was told to. ]
How much of the food here have you had opportunity to experiment with?
[His next breath is a little easier and there's a small rush of gratitude towards Crais for actually letting it go. He need to fold that part of him back into place.]
Ah...mostly stick to what I can recognize from home, but I've tried a whole array of whatever Nate called 'junk food' for a time. Almost all of it made me sick, but pizza's nice and...ah...something to do with noodles. And spicy noodles! Thos're nice.
[Spicy anything is nice, he's found.]
Ah...mostly stick to what I can recognize from home, but I've tried a whole array of whatever Nate called 'junk food' for a time. Almost all of it made me sick, but pizza's nice and...ah...something to do with noodles. And spicy noodles! Thos're nice.
[Spicy anything is nice, he's found.]
Cheese and I don't get along. I think it's something to do with being entirely unfamiliar to me.
[ He's just going to be completely relaxed and chat casually. Gear shift and direction change? Complete. No guilt, not awkward, just doing that thing. ]
I take it produce isn't something you lack at home, then?
[ He's just going to be completely relaxed and chat casually. Gear shift and direction change? Complete. No guilt, not awkward, just doing that thing. ]
I take it produce isn't something you lack at home, then?
No. It's not exactly native, soil of Melvaunt's always been shite, but we had importing agreements with neighboring powers. Some produce was cheaper or easier to get than others but...well, I never had much concern for that myself.
Why's cheese weird to you? No cows or milk on your space whales?
Why's cheese weird to you? No cows or milk on your space whales?
Livestock or farming would be hard inside a space whale. [ He's just going with it. ] The bigger, entirely mechanical ships were easier to source fresh food from but milk is still not something eaten by anyone who's been weaned. I think it just missed us culturally.
You feel better?
You feel better?
Huh. [Its still weird to think any sort of ship could keep fresh food for long, but then maybe they had a bunch of those refrigerators.
The question earns a small crease of confusion in Chris’s brow.]
I feel fine. Felt fine.
[Oh-]
That wasn’t distress or upset. Aside maybe frustration, just…me. Said I was bad at words? That’s how I mean.
The question earns a small crease of confusion in Chris’s brow.]
I feel fine. Felt fine.
[Oh-]
That wasn’t distress or upset. Aside maybe frustration, just…me. Said I was bad at words? That’s how I mean.
[ This is absolutely the wrong thing to be confused by, but he sincerely is. He makes it a statement instead of a question, though. ]
I'm more distressed by frustration than almost anything else I can think of.
I'm more distressed by frustration than almost anything else I can think of.
Aah...well, there we differ a bit. Frustration just means I work harder or smarter. If I got distressed every time I was frustrated in my life, wouldn't get far for nothing.
What's your go-to when you feel like that?
What's your go-to when you feel like that?
My go to when... I'm frustrated?
I yell at what's frustrating me.
[ He is neither complicated nor usually particularly nuanced. ]
I yell at what's frustrating me.
[ He is neither complicated nor usually particularly nuanced. ]
[He can't help it, he laughs.]
So easy as that? Want to trade? If I yell at what's frustrating me, might cause a diplomatic incident.
[Or, almost worse, make Silver get that sadly disappointed look that both made Chris feel bad and deeply irritated him.]
So easy as that? Want to trade? If I yell at what's frustrating me, might cause a diplomatic incident.
[Or, almost worse, make Silver get that sadly disappointed look that both made Chris feel bad and deeply irritated him.]
[ He looks up at Chris with unabashed and undisguised horror. ]
Absolutely not!
Absolutely not!
No? Ah well, worth a shot.
[He switches from stroking through Crais' hair to massaging lightly at his scalp.]
[He switches from stroking through Crais' hair to massaging lightly at his scalp.]
[ Crais starts to make some smart ass remark about diplomacy and politics, but then Chris does that and Crais just... groans and forgets it. ]
Keep doing that. Use your nails.
Keep doing that. Use your nails.
[This is better anyway.]
Hmm. Man after my own heart, you.
[He does as he’s told happily, working the edges of his nails into the massage.]
Surprised you don’t let people play with your hair more if you like it.
Hmm. Man after my own heart, you.
[He does as he’s told happily, working the edges of his nails into the massage.]
Surprised you don’t let people play with your hair more if you like it.
[ Actual cats might not like Chris much but the sound Crais makes is more feline than human.
Because alien.
Not really a purr but the meaning is similar. ]
I just don't like my hair down. It's aggravating.
Because alien.
Not really a purr but the meaning is similar. ]
I just don't like my hair down. It's aggravating.
[Is he purring? No, but he made some sort of sound. And it would be a lie to say Chris wasn't very pleased with that.]
You do have quite a bit of it, I imagine that could be annoying.
[There's a pause and then:]
Does this feel good in the way a massage normally might or is it doing something more for you? In the interest of blunt curiosity.
You do have quite a bit of it, I imagine that could be annoying.
[There's a pause and then:]
Does this feel good in the way a massage normally might or is it doing something more for you? In the interest of blunt curiosity.
I have someone who's been recommended to me to help with our campaign against the city's lies on designation switches.
Do you know James Kirk?
He's another Dom.
Do you know James Kirk?
He's another Dom.
Met him not too long ago, actually. He seems a good one.
So he might be interested in helping us? He’s in good standing, to your knowledge?
So he might be interested in helping us? He’s in good standing, to your knowledge?
I haven't spoken with him about it, yet, but Dr. McCoy recommended him.
I can't say I trust McCoy fully, but from what I know of Kirk, he'd be fine.
He actually owns the shop my first contract partner started here.
He hasn't run it into the ground, so that's something.
I don't think he's had any citations recently?
But we're not especially close.
I can't say I trust McCoy fully, but from what I know of Kirk, he'd be fine.
He actually owns the shop my first contract partner started here.
He hasn't run it into the ground, so that's something.
I don't think he's had any citations recently?
But we're not especially close.
Dr. McCoy, huh?
[He remembers that name too from the discussion of the room, and not as fondly.]
Alright, I’ll talk to him, he’ll need to know the risks.
Do you want to be part of the conversation or as far as possible for association?
[He remembers that name too from the discussion of the room, and not as fondly.]
Alright, I’ll talk to him, he’ll need to know the risks.
Do you want to be part of the conversation or as far as possible for association?
He wants to be my friend, apparently.
I think this is his way of helping, at least.
[So, there's... that.]
As for Kirk, I don't mind being part of the conversation if you think it would actually help.
I think this is his way of helping, at least.
[So, there's... that.]
As for Kirk, I don't mind being part of the conversation if you think it would actually help.
I see.
[Not his place, Jon’s his own keeper and who he thinks is worth friendship is his own business. Even if it sits ill in him.]
I think this is your project and I’ve no interest in closing the door on you unless your hand’s on the handle to do so.
I’ll arrange it, find a place and time, just need word on headcount.
[Not his place, Jon’s his own keeper and who he thinks is worth friendship is his own business. Even if it sits ill in him.]
I think this is your project and I’ve no interest in closing the door on you unless your hand’s on the handle to do so.
I’ll arrange it, find a place and time, just need word on headcount.
[Jon can feel the disapproval through the text.]
I've told him in no uncertain terms that we aren't friends, and him acting like we are was a problem.
He's backed off since then.
This was the first thing he's contacted me about since that conversation.
[...]
And if you don't think I'll be a detriment, I'd like to be present for the discussion.
I've told him in no uncertain terms that we aren't friends, and him acting like we are was a problem.
He's backed off since then.
This was the first thing he's contacted me about since that conversation.
[...]
And if you don't think I'll be a detriment, I'd like to be present for the discussion.
[Huh…that actually puts a bit of a smile on his face.]
Don’t think it’ll be a detriment; I want your thoughts too.
Proud of you, though. That’s a tough line to hold for a lot of people.
[And considering what Jon had said last time…]
Hope he keeps listening.
Don’t think it’ll be a detriment; I want your thoughts too.
Proud of you, though. That’s a tough line to hold for a lot of people.
[And considering what Jon had said last time…]
Hope he keeps listening.
I'm not actually friendly, Chris.
It wasn't that difficult.
[Being a rude bastard at people? He was born for that. Granted, the conversation with McCoy had been a lot more emotionally tense than that with an attempt not to rake him too hard over the coals. But still!]
It wasn't that difficult.
[Being a rude bastard at people? He was born for that. Granted, the conversation with McCoy had been a lot more emotionally tense than that with an attempt not to rake him too hard over the coals. But still!]
I know it. you’re a right pain.
[And he likes it.]
Keep it up.
Now then. Two days. Thinking Guiltea.
[And he likes it.]
Keep it up.
Now then. Two days. Thinking Guiltea.
[Jon's mostly been to Honestea, but he supposes... downstairs would be better for secrecy.]
Provided nothing weird goes on down there, that's fine. I've not been.
Provided nothing weird goes on down there, that's fine. I've not been.
Only been twice myself and once for a punishment for me.
[And he hadn't really been back since, but this seemed like the kind of thing to stow in a corner there.]
Can't promise there won't be weird around, but we can find a quiet corner and keep our heads down, no one's gonna come looking or ask questions.
[And he hadn't really been back since, but this seemed like the kind of thing to stow in a corner there.]
Can't promise there won't be weird around, but we can find a quiet corner and keep our heads down, no one's gonna come looking or ask questions.
All right.
I'll leave it to you, then, and be there when we need to be.
I'll leave it to you, then, and be there when we need to be.
((Continued from here))
[That's...actually a good question.]
Well...meat and nuts and snakes are, ah...typical, but maybe not best avenue for your particular bird. Fruit's a fair option, as are breads. I've- that is...I hear spicy food may go over well with some birds too. Got a fondness for that sort of bite.
They're like to eat just about anything, so figure there's little way to go wrong.
[That's...actually a good question.]
Well...meat and nuts and snakes are, ah...typical, but maybe not best avenue for your particular bird. Fruit's a fair option, as are breads. I've- that is...I hear spicy food may go over well with some birds too. Got a fondness for that sort of bite.
They're like to eat just about anything, so figure there's little way to go wrong.
[He's making notes. Spicy things, particularly. Good.]
I'll forego the basic birdseed pack, then shall I?
I'll forego the basic birdseed pack, then shall I?
[He makes a face to himself.]
Please. No common pigeon, your bird.
Seeds're for the ground or on cakes.
Please. No common pigeon, your bird.
Seeds're for the ground or on cakes.
Poppyseed muffins. I'll remember that. I suppose he'll be a very pampered bird. Too good to go scratching for worms and the like. I was considering if he might like a perch, as well. Mind, there's a cat who likes to come round who might steal it when he's not playing, so he'll have to be willing to share.
[Jon's just going to send... a few photographs of indoor swings he's been looking at. He likes the one at Jamie's place and the one Martin got him for home. Having one in the lounge would be nice, and Chris could share it, if he likes the idea.]
[Jon's just going to send... a few photographs of indoor swings he's been looking at. He likes the one at Jamie's place and the one Martin got him for home. Having one in the lounge would be nice, and Chris could share it, if he likes the idea.]
[Oh...well, aren't those clever things?]
I'm sure he'd be more'n amenable. Such fine crafts are meant for use, not covetous intention. From my understanding, he's often quite fond of sharing.
[Which...was true on many fronts, really.
Though, it did sober his playfulness.]
You know...as fun as I'm having, probably many a thing we ought talk about. Expectations and like. Not now, if it's not desired or not a good time, but soon enough.
I'm sure he'd be more'n amenable. Such fine crafts are meant for use, not covetous intention. From my understanding, he's often quite fond of sharing.
[Which...was true on many fronts, really.
Though, it did sober his playfulness.]
You know...as fun as I'm having, probably many a thing we ought talk about. Expectations and like. Not now, if it's not desired or not a good time, but soon enough.
[Jon's own thoughts catch, and he tries not to immediately backpedal. He's carrying on like they've already got some sort of relationship ironed out. It's irresponsible. He should be the one raising things like that, shouldn't he? Chris shouldn't have to. Although, it had been him to raise those sorts of questions with Daphne. But that was after they'd agreed and been doing things. It was his fault not understanding, really.
His anxiety takes longer than he'd like to quiet before Jon replies, tone hesitant.]
Yes, we ought to talk about that. In person, maybe?
His anxiety takes longer than he'd like to quiet before Jon replies, tone hesitant.]
Yes, we ought to talk about that. In person, maybe?
Edited 2022-03-08 22:46 (UTC)
[Jon's quiet and Chris can almost hear him thinking, though of what, he couldn't guess without seeing him.]
Always happy to see your face, Jon. Name time and place and I'll even grab a snack to share.
Always happy to see your face, Jon. Name time and place and I'll even grab a snack to share.
[Neutral ground. But somewhere private. And preferably deserted.]
I could... rent a hotel room? Unless you want to come to my house or have me come to yours. I-I'd just rather we have our privacy.
I could... rent a hotel room? Unless you want to come to my house or have me come to yours. I-I'd just rather we have our privacy.
[Somewhere private. Despite having sat on Jon's roof a number of times, he didn't know the exact living arrangement inside. If someone came across them or interrupted them, would that be too embarrassing for Jon?
Maybe. He couldn't guess. Wouldn't guess, better to take out the possibility.]
Want your comfort for it as much mine, neither of us need to be dive-bombed by a bratty fledgling, so let's get the hotel room.
[There's a pause and then, a little quieter, he offers:] You know I'm looking forward to this, right? The talk, the play...all of it.
Maybe. He couldn't guess. Wouldn't guess, better to take out the possibility.]
Want your comfort for it as much mine, neither of us need to be dive-bombed by a bratty fledgling, so let's get the hotel room.
[There's a pause and then, a little quieter, he offers:] You know I'm looking forward to this, right? The talk, the play...all of it.
No. I- I know. I just- I want to get this right. [He needs to be good at this for Chris. He should take charge, then. That's the right way to do this.] I'll make arrangements. Don't worry about it. I'll- Yes. I'll see to that now and send along an address.
Edited 2022-03-09 02:29 (UTC)
Alright, then. I'll grab some snacks and such, as promised. See you there soon.
[Following this conversation Erik uses the contact information he obtained to deliver this message:]
Dear Lord Sonom,
I apologize for contacting you without prior warning. You don't know me. I was given your information by a mutual friend, Mr. Jon Sims. He mentioned the two of you were working closely together. I'm interested in your project. Would you be opposed to meeting me so we can discuss it in person?
Yours sincerely,
Lord Erik Osborne
Dear Lord Sonom,
I apologize for contacting you without prior warning. You don't know me. I was given your information by a mutual friend, Mr. Jon Sims. He mentioned the two of you were working closely together. I'm interested in your project. Would you be opposed to meeting me so we can discuss it in person?
Yours sincerely,
Lord Erik Osborne
[He’s a little surprised Jon sent someone his way, but his curiosity stands piqued.
There’s a couple projects that run through his mind at the mention, but he’s fairly certain one of them wouldn’t have come up with a stranger. Surely. The other was certainly befitting the more political tone used. Well, that and the title that matched his own.]
Fair greetings to you, Lord Osborne.
I would be happy to meet with you come evening. If you’ve access to the Up, I would recommend Honestea. If not, then I will be happy to treat you to an evening at the bar, Crimson.
There’s a couple projects that run through his mind at the mention, but he’s fairly certain one of them wouldn’t have come up with a stranger. Surely. The other was certainly befitting the more political tone used. Well, that and the title that matched his own.]
Fair greetings to you, Lord Osborne.
I would be happy to meet with you come evening. If you’ve access to the Up, I would recommend Honestea. If not, then I will be happy to treat you to an evening at the bar, Crimson.
My thanks, Lord Sonom.
I am able to travel into the Up, and I admit I much prefer the accommodations there. I will join you this evening at Honestea. I feel it fair to warn you I will not be able to partake in any food or drink, but the setting itself will be comfort enough. Look for me in a cream colored suit and crimson tie.
I am able to travel into the Up, and I admit I much prefer the accommodations there. I will join you this evening at Honestea. I feel it fair to warn you I will not be able to partake in any food or drink, but the setting itself will be comfort enough. Look for me in a cream colored suit and crimson tie.
I understand and appreciate the warning. I am looking forward to our meeting.
-Lord Chris Sonom
[He was hardly dressed for a meeting of nobility when he’d gone in to work for the day, so he bailed early with apologies and a chance to clean up in something nicer than his usual leather ensemble. It feels strange to put the clothes on he’d arrived in, but they’re better suited for this.
Chris heads to Honestea shortly after, procures a cup of tea for himself out of formality, and waits for a man in a cream suit with a crimson tie.
When he sees such a man arrive, Chris stands to greet him, polite smile and hand offered as he approaches.]
Lord Osborne? A pleasure.
[His voice is light, noticeably accented, and genial.]
I’d offer full title, if you like, but I’m afraid you’ll find it matters little but to us in the city.
-Lord Chris Sonom
[He was hardly dressed for a meeting of nobility when he’d gone in to work for the day, so he bailed early with apologies and a chance to clean up in something nicer than his usual leather ensemble. It feels strange to put the clothes on he’d arrived in, but they’re better suited for this.
Chris heads to Honestea shortly after, procures a cup of tea for himself out of formality, and waits for a man in a cream suit with a crimson tie.
When he sees such a man arrive, Chris stands to greet him, polite smile and hand offered as he approaches.]
Lord Osborne? A pleasure.
[His voice is light, noticeably accented, and genial.]
I’d offer full title, if you like, but I’m afraid you’ll find it matters little but to us in the city.
[The suit and tie happen to be what Erik arrived with himself, attire from a party he'd been in attendance at before mysteriously ending up here. It's fortunate that his being a vampire causes him to neither sweat nor soil his clothes as easily since he's been stuck in the same thing for several days now.
Erik's skin, when he takes the offered handshake, is cold as the grave. But his smile is warm if a touch rueful at that comment about titles.]
I am discovering that rapidly. If you would like to share it with me, for my reference, I will of course be happy to know your full title. But if we wish to dispense with formality, then you can know me as Erik.
Erik's skin, when he takes the offered handshake, is cold as the grave. But his smile is warm if a touch rueful at that comment about titles.]
I am discovering that rapidly. If you would like to share it with me, for my reference, I will of course be happy to know your full title. But if we wish to dispense with formality, then you can know me as Erik.
[Chris’ smile ticks up at the corner and he shakes his head.]
Full honest? More than happy to dispense if such things unless they’re needed. Chris’ll do fine for me. Come’n sit with me.
[He leads Erik back to the table he’d taken up with his cup of tea and gestures for his companion to take up the other seat.]
So…while I can take a guess to the nature of this talk, it’d be easier to start if I knew what was said to bring you to me.
Full honest? More than happy to dispense if such things unless they’re needed. Chris’ll do fine for me. Come’n sit with me.
[He leads Erik back to the table he’d taken up with his cup of tea and gestures for his companion to take up the other seat.]
So…while I can take a guess to the nature of this talk, it’d be easier to start if I knew what was said to bring you to me.
Very well, then. Chris it is.
[Erik follows, taking a seat opposite and sitting primly on it with his hands folded in front of him on the table.]
Of course. I went to Mr. Sims because I'd been told he had information on people here changing their designations. He told me that he, himself, had experienced such a change. He mentioned that the powers that be don't acknowledge these shifts--with one notable exception--and he mentioned that you and he were working on changing that? Is that correct?
[Erik follows, taking a seat opposite and sitting primly on it with his hands folded in front of him on the table.]
Of course. I went to Mr. Sims because I'd been told he had information on people here changing their designations. He told me that he, himself, had experienced such a change. He mentioned that the powers that be don't acknowledge these shifts--with one notable exception--and he mentioned that you and he were working on changing that? Is that correct?
[Chris nods and thanks his lessons in political meetings for keeping his buried frustration over this very ‘project’ from surfacing.
It was a fair question and not Erik’s fault Chris didn’t have better news.]
For the most part. I have a dominant-assigned friend loaning his name to the letters I draft to assert credibility, but the idea and proof is Jon’s while the execution is mine.
[He shifts to lean a bit closer.]
I’ve sent two letters requesting a meeting with the Mayor and creator of the LIEs program with the intention of roping him or his partner into the line of questioning. With a figure, at worst, they might respond with violence to myself and show a hand of desperation for mere questions.
I’m sorry to say what they’ve sent me back is not heartening, but they offered to have me send my questions in…which’s far less than ideal.
It was a fair question and not Erik’s fault Chris didn’t have better news.]
For the most part. I have a dominant-assigned friend loaning his name to the letters I draft to assert credibility, but the idea and proof is Jon’s while the execution is mine.
[He shifts to lean a bit closer.]
I’ve sent two letters requesting a meeting with the Mayor and creator of the LIEs program with the intention of roping him or his partner into the line of questioning. With a figure, at worst, they might respond with violence to myself and show a hand of desperation for mere questions.
I’m sorry to say what they’ve sent me back is not heartening, but they offered to have me send my questions in…which’s far less than ideal.
[Erik leans forward to meet him out of courtesy. the vampire could hear a mouse sneeze from across the room, but he doesn't want to seem rude. His voice is takes on a low discretionary tenor when he responds.]
You're risking a lot on this, and I admire both the courage and the perseverance. How long have you been pursuing this project?
You're risking a lot on this, and I admire both the courage and the perseverance. How long have you been pursuing this project?
[He doesn’t…feel like he is. Or, rather, he wishes it felt more like a risk for it to feel worth it. Instead, he’s left with cold words on a paper and hoping it yields something. Still, the smile he offers is polite.]
Thank you, I’m hoping it gives us something to work with. If not a new lead to follow.
The planning, gathering, and execution has been over the course of the last two months. We first started talk in…January. I sent the first letter earlier this month.
If I might be so frank, what might your interest be in this, aside from the general?
Thank you, I’m hoping it gives us something to work with. If not a new lead to follow.
The planning, gathering, and execution has been over the course of the last two months. We first started talk in…January. I sent the first letter earlier this month.
If I might be so frank, what might your interest be in this, aside from the general?
I know it doesn't feel this way, but I'd say any response at all in that short time is a positive, unsatisfying as it still is. A regime like the one in power here is not going to be easily moved.
[He speaks with the certainty of someone who has tried.]
A fair question. My interest is a selfish one. I do not agree with the designation I've been dealt and I want to change it. After learning that when it does occur it is seemingly random, I'm looking into other options. If the people in control will not even acknowledge that it is possible, what hope do I have of making it happen for me?
Make no mistake, it is a self-interested angle, but that doesn't mean I can't be helpful or committed to a common goal.
[He speaks with the certainty of someone who has tried.]
A fair question. My interest is a selfish one. I do not agree with the designation I've been dealt and I want to change it. After learning that when it does occur it is seemingly random, I'm looking into other options. If the people in control will not even acknowledge that it is possible, what hope do I have of making it happen for me?
Make no mistake, it is a self-interested angle, but that doesn't mean I can't be helpful or committed to a common goal.
[That is very true and he’d do better to remember it. The last tyrannical regime he helped dismantle took five years of concerted effort before an opening appeared and that was still shorter than some reigns. It was easy to forget when such time had passed. He ought remember the patience he had then.
There’s a measure of gratitude in him for the reminder, even if it shouldn’t have been needed. Erik’s voice tells a brief story of familiarity Chris makes mental note to ask after another time.
For now, he listens, but there’s no judgement in him for the admission.]
Self-interested gives me more confidence than the claim of a good heart. Good hearts in harsh movements rarely last long or well. No shame nor harm in knowing exactly where a man stand. Besides, harsh honesty’s better than a gentle lie to my ear.
Alright, your aid is welcome, as are your ideas to it. When I’ve final word from my last letter, I’ll share the results and all information gathered that time, if Jon’s not already given it.
[He offers his hand again and a more earnest smile with it.]
There’s a measure of gratitude in him for the reminder, even if it shouldn’t have been needed. Erik’s voice tells a brief story of familiarity Chris makes mental note to ask after another time.
For now, he listens, but there’s no judgement in him for the admission.]
Self-interested gives me more confidence than the claim of a good heart. Good hearts in harsh movements rarely last long or well. No shame nor harm in knowing exactly where a man stand. Besides, harsh honesty’s better than a gentle lie to my ear.
Alright, your aid is welcome, as are your ideas to it. When I’ve final word from my last letter, I’ll share the results and all information gathered that time, if Jon’s not already given it.
[He offers his hand again and a more earnest smile with it.]
To hear you say so, in turn, increases my confidence in you. It is a truth in my world, and many I should think, that we all have self-interests to serve. Only a fool or a liar denies it.
[Erik takes Chris's hand and shakes it with warm pressure despite the chill of his skin.]
I will be glad to hear what response you get. And more glad to help you succeed in this quest. If I come across anything I think might be useful to you, I will send you a message to meet. You can rely on my discretion.
[Erik takes Chris's hand and shakes it with warm pressure despite the chill of his skin.]
I will be glad to hear what response you get. And more glad to help you succeed in this quest. If I come across anything I think might be useful to you, I will send you a message to meet. You can rely on my discretion.
[He takes note of the chill again, but this doesn't feel like the time to say something. It wasn't really his business until it was.]
Thank you, I appreciate that and your discretion. Is there anything else you'd like to know? Of me or the city or what-have you, while we're sat here? I'll not take your time up otherwise.
[He was genuinely more than happy to help with questions as he could, but they were likely both busy, small talk wasn't the cards for today.]
Thank you, I appreciate that and your discretion. Is there anything else you'd like to know? Of me or the city or what-have you, while we're sat here? I'll not take your time up otherwise.
[He was genuinely more than happy to help with questions as he could, but they were likely both busy, small talk wasn't the cards for today.]
I have no job and no other obligations besides. If anything, it is I taking-up your time. And you have been most generous with it, so I won't overstay my welcome.
Ah, fair. Then I apologize I can't be a better host today, call in a raincheck sometime and I'll be happy to offer better company. Unfortunately, too much time leaves an idle mind I've no use with, so I've two jobs to my name. Which reminds me, if you've need of me in working hours, you can find me at Haven or the Midnight Theatre, both in the Down.
[He finishes off his tea and moves to stand. Though, he hesitates as he does.]
Actually...what do you like to do for fun, Erik?
[He finishes off his tea and moves to stand. Though, he hesitates as he does.]
Actually...what do you like to do for fun, Erik?
Thank you. I dislike being idle as well, so I can sympathize.
[He nods, and takes note of those business names. He'll plan on making his rounds to them soon.
When Chris starts to rise, so does he. But then that question leaves him feeling quite flat-footed. What does he like to do for fun? That shouldn't be a difficult question, yet as he stands there, he finds himself struggling to summon an answer.
His mind flashes to his recent years, where most evenings are spent in the company of his human servant. Treating his Max to whatever desire he fancies, spending time in carnal pleasure, traveling abroad. All of it, for the last seven years, has revolved around his human companion. Those handful of years have somehow felt more full than entire decades past. But what does he do with himself when not doting on his Pet? What did he do before his Pet?]
Oh, I don't know. I like to read, or travel. I sometimes collect art. I suppose, otherwise, I'm a little too much of a workaholic for other hobbies.
[He nods, and takes note of those business names. He'll plan on making his rounds to them soon.
When Chris starts to rise, so does he. But then that question leaves him feeling quite flat-footed. What does he like to do for fun? That shouldn't be a difficult question, yet as he stands there, he finds himself struggling to summon an answer.
His mind flashes to his recent years, where most evenings are spent in the company of his human servant. Treating his Max to whatever desire he fancies, spending time in carnal pleasure, traveling abroad. All of it, for the last seven years, has revolved around his human companion. Those handful of years have somehow felt more full than entire decades past. But what does he do with himself when not doting on his Pet? What did he do before his Pet?]
Oh, I don't know. I like to read, or travel. I sometimes collect art. I suppose, otherwise, I'm a little too much of a workaholic for other hobbies.
[He watches the man pause a little too long for an answer that ought be simple and it’s an interesting note. He’s clearly been busy enough for long enough that he’s nearly forgotten and ‘workaholic’ seems likely enough. He can sympathize.]
Not sure to the work you’re used to, but you might want to start finding some unless you’re to pick up a job or two while here.
That said, there’s an art gallery here in the Up, couldn’t treat you to tea, can I offer an evening’s distraction instead?
Not sure to the work you’re used to, but you might want to start finding some unless you’re to pick up a job or two while here.
That said, there’s an art gallery here in the Up, couldn’t treat you to tea, can I offer an evening’s distraction instead?
I was a land broker and investor. I don't see much hope for that here given my... designation.
[His lips twist into a grimace while his hand tightens the tie at his neck as if to cover the mark under his chin. But as quickly as the distaste on his face comes, it's gone again, replaced with a look of genuine interest.]
An art gallery. Yes, I would like that very much. A feast for the eyes one might say.
[His lips twist into a grimace while his hand tightens the tie at his neck as if to cover the mark under his chin. But as quickly as the distaste on his face comes, it's gone again, replaced with a look of genuine interest.]
An art gallery. Yes, I would like that very much. A feast for the eyes one might say.
Ah. [Chris offers a sympathetic look. No, there likely wasn't much call for that even beyond designation, not that Chris has looked much into either, but the designation snag is certainly the biggest issue.
For now, he takes his cup back to the counter and returns with a genial smile.]
Art is good for the eyes and soul. It's not so far, if you'll join in the walk?
[He'll lead them out, hands itching to tuck into the pockets of a jacket he wasn't wearing. It isn't far at all and Chris fills the space with talk of art, as well as he knows it. The building itself it nice and he pays their admission with an easy smile.
Once they're inside, however, he largely lets Erik decide what they look at and where they go, more than happy to listen if the man has any insight on the pieces displayed.]
For now, he takes his cup back to the counter and returns with a genial smile.]
Art is good for the eyes and soul. It's not so far, if you'll join in the walk?
[He'll lead them out, hands itching to tuck into the pockets of a jacket he wasn't wearing. It isn't far at all and Chris fills the space with talk of art, as well as he knows it. The building itself it nice and he pays their admission with an easy smile.
Once they're inside, however, he largely lets Erik decide what they look at and where they go, more than happy to listen if the man has any insight on the pieces displayed.]
With pleasure.
[It's still a new and somewhat uncomfortable notion for him that someone else should have to pay his way, but he accepts it with grace. Once inside, his discomfort is forgotten. His whole demeanor lights up and he leads Chris around with a kind of giddy excitement as he points out this or that detail about paintings and sculptures they pass.
He explains off-handedly, that he's been a minor collector of art for some time, but also, that he has the advantage of having been a contemporary viewer during many of the now "old" movements on display. He speaks vividly about his memories of going to private galleries to see pieces when they were still new, hinting at the truth of his age and nature. He gravitates the most heavily to Neoclassicism and Baroque styles, stopping to view any of those types for much longer than most.]
I hope I'm not boring you too much? My servant at home, Max, always starts getting fidgety by this point when I take him to a place like this.
[It's still a new and somewhat uncomfortable notion for him that someone else should have to pay his way, but he accepts it with grace. Once inside, his discomfort is forgotten. His whole demeanor lights up and he leads Chris around with a kind of giddy excitement as he points out this or that detail about paintings and sculptures they pass.
He explains off-handedly, that he's been a minor collector of art for some time, but also, that he has the advantage of having been a contemporary viewer during many of the now "old" movements on display. He speaks vividly about his memories of going to private galleries to see pieces when they were still new, hinting at the truth of his age and nature. He gravitates the most heavily to Neoclassicism and Baroque styles, stopping to view any of those types for much longer than most.]
I hope I'm not boring you too much? My servant at home, Max, always starts getting fidgety by this point when I take him to a place like this.
[He's gathered a picture in his mind of Erik, between the small phrases and the chill of his skin, as to what he might be. He's also seen a man impassioned by a topic he clearly cares greatly about and that carries just as much weight.
He doesn't know as much about the topic as Erik does, but he does enjoy watching someone else's excitement. When he asks, Chris shakes his head.]
Not at all. When someone really cares about a thing, their smile turns more genuine and there's a brightness to their eyes and a upward shift in their voice. It's noticeable and attractive to watch, even if the subject is a bit outside my purview. You've been a connoisseur of art for quite some time. It shows and it's lovely.
He doesn't know as much about the topic as Erik does, but he does enjoy watching someone else's excitement. When he asks, Chris shakes his head.]
Not at all. When someone really cares about a thing, their smile turns more genuine and there's a brightness to their eyes and a upward shift in their voice. It's noticeable and attractive to watch, even if the subject is a bit outside my purview. You've been a connoisseur of art for quite some time. It shows and it's lovely.
Hm. [Erik pauses a moment to really think about what Chris has said. It's true. He does feel more at ease now, less hopeless.] I think I'd forgotten how much of a passion I had for this, with all that's gone on lately.
[He means the things that have gone on in his own world more than here. Since the (relatively) recent death of his sister his life has been increasingly eventful.]
Thank you for reminding me of it.
[He means the things that have gone on in his own world more than here. Since the (relatively) recent death of his sister his life has been increasingly eventful.]
Thank you for reminding me of it.
[Chris’ smile ticks higher and he briefly puts a hand on Erik’s shoulder.]
Happy to. This city can get scary rough, even for those used to such things or rolling with life’s hits. Good to find those things of people who make it easier to manage.
Do you do any art yourself?
Happy to. This city can get scary rough, even for those used to such things or rolling with life’s hits. Good to find those things of people who make it easier to manage.
Do you do any art yourself?
[Erik's smile creeps wider when Chris puts a friendly hand on his shoulder. He's taking a liking to the man already.]
Oh, no. I'm afraid I've got no talent for it. My sister had some, but she lacked the patience. I am doomed to be an admirer only.
What about you? Any hidden talents?
Oh, no. I'm afraid I've got no talent for it. My sister had some, but she lacked the patience. I am doomed to be an admirer only.
What about you? Any hidden talents?
[He nods.]
Understand the sentiment far too well, I sing fine, draw fine, play the flute fine, not much painting under my belt, but might be fine there too, no real talent to speak of in the arts, middling at best. That said, I've two lovers back home both bards and talented in their music, appreciation I've got in spades.
Now...[Amusement and a bit of teasing filter into the look Chris shoots Erik.] -that's not to say I've no hidden talents, mind, just not of the artistic persuasion, I'm sure you understand.
[What's a little light flirtation between acquaintances?]
Understand the sentiment far too well, I sing fine, draw fine, play the flute fine, not much painting under my belt, but might be fine there too, no real talent to speak of in the arts, middling at best. That said, I've two lovers back home both bards and talented in their music, appreciation I've got in spades.
Now...[Amusement and a bit of teasing filter into the look Chris shoots Erik.] -that's not to say I've no hidden talents, mind, just not of the artistic persuasion, I'm sure you understand.
[What's a little light flirtation between acquaintances?]
And where would the artists be without those of us who can appreciate them, hm? I imagine your bards feel very happy to have your admiration.
[Erik casts a sideways look at Chris, just to reassure himself that the flirting tone he thought he heard wasn't imagined. No, it's there in the man's face too.]
I think I do but... I might need to hear more about them, just to make sure.
[The corner of his mouth curls into a devious smile.]
Unless you'd rather give a demonstration?
[Erik casts a sideways look at Chris, just to reassure himself that the flirting tone he thought he heard wasn't imagined. No, it's there in the man's face too.]
I think I do but... I might need to hear more about them, just to make sure.
[The corner of his mouth curls into a devious smile.]
Unless you'd rather give a demonstration?
[Chris takes a half step nearer Erik's side and casts his voice lower, as though they were simply having a quiet conversation over the artwork near them.]
Oh....now, words. Words I can do many things with. I could fill your ear and mind with many pretty pictures of many possibilities...but- [he draws the word out a bit and lets his gaze drift to the other man.]
I find a demonstration of the quality to my tongue's talent can be easily arranged.
Oh....now, words. Words I can do many things with. I could fill your ear and mind with many pretty pictures of many possibilities...but- [he draws the word out a bit and lets his gaze drift to the other man.]
I find a demonstration of the quality to my tongue's talent can be easily arranged.
[Erik's attention is fixated on Chris and Chris alone, as if he's the most fascinating work of art on display here. Isn't he just...?]
You have my interest aroused. [His tone is similarly low, and dripping with desire.] Please show me what that clever tongue of yours is capable of.
You have my interest aroused. [His tone is similarly low, and dripping with desire.] Please show me what that clever tongue of yours is capable of.
[Chris' smile spreads quick, playful and bright, as he meets Erik's gaze and moves to step in near his side, voice low.]
I know we're meant to be respectable nobility, but there's an alcove in the hall behind us with just enough privacy and low light to go unnoticed...and I'd much like to feel your hands in my hair.
[He steps back again and offers his hand, green eyes watchful for any sign the offer of slightly more public play might be taken poorly.]
I know we're meant to be respectable nobility, but there's an alcove in the hall behind us with just enough privacy and low light to go unnoticed...and I'd much like to feel your hands in my hair.
[He steps back again and offers his hand, green eyes watchful for any sign the offer of slightly more public play might be taken poorly.]
Respectable is so boring. And your tresses are too lovely for me to think of not tangling my fingers in them.
[There's no hesitation to be seen as he puts his hand in Chris's. That's one thing that can be said for the city, he doubts anyone would bat a lash even if they did notice what two lords were getting up to in a dark alcove.]
[There's no hesitation to be seen as he puts his hand in Chris's. That's one thing that can be said for the city, he doubts anyone would bat a lash even if they did notice what two lords were getting up to in a dark alcove.]
[Chris flashes a brighter, more playful smile, and leads them back the way they'd come before. He spares a brief glance down the hall, but what others were around paid them no mind as Chris brought Erik into the alcove with him. Once there, he turns to face him.]
Simple demonstration first, if you'll allow indulgence...
[He leans in, hands coming up to cup under Erik's jaw as he presses a kiss to the man's lips. Simple for now, a tender movement of lips before he started in on anything else.]
Simple demonstration first, if you'll allow indulgence...
[He leans in, hands coming up to cup under Erik's jaw as he presses a kiss to the man's lips. Simple for now, a tender movement of lips before he started in on anything else.]
[Erik smiles up into Chris's face, flashing a bit of fang as he runs his tongue over his own lips both to wet them and to invite Chris in for a taste. No words needed.
The kiss is so achingly tender. It breaks down some deeply buried barrier he's been building since he awoke in this terrible city. It's comfort and warmth, a stark contrast to how cold his own lips and body are.
Slowly, he slides his fingers over Chris's back, moving up on his toes to bring them just a little closer in height while he grazes his nails up the nape of Chris's neck and into his hair. Oh, it's just as soft as he imagined.]
The kiss is so achingly tender. It breaks down some deeply buried barrier he's been building since he awoke in this terrible city. It's comfort and warmth, a stark contrast to how cold his own lips and body are.
Slowly, he slides his fingers over Chris's back, moving up on his toes to bring them just a little closer in height while he grazes his nails up the nape of Chris's neck and into his hair. Oh, it's just as soft as he imagined.]
[The lower temperature of Erik's skin gets noticed in the back of Chris mind, a note that it wasn't just his hands, but if that little flash of a sharp tooth was any indication, Chris had already felt and parsed what Erik was.
It changed absolutely nothing about his interest to keep kissing this charming man. Especially as his hands reach up into Chris' hair, the young cleric very nearly melts into the kiss for it. It was a weakness.
It's enough to have Chris' tongue seeking entrance to Erik's mouth, eager to sweep through and taste and possibly run just barely by those fangs he'd seen.
One of his hands moves from jaw to shoulder; he was half sorry there wasn't skin to touch, but he's willing enough to simply touch over fabric as his hand wanders without real aim.]
It changed absolutely nothing about his interest to keep kissing this charming man. Especially as his hands reach up into Chris' hair, the young cleric very nearly melts into the kiss for it. It was a weakness.
It's enough to have Chris' tongue seeking entrance to Erik's mouth, eager to sweep through and taste and possibly run just barely by those fangs he'd seen.
One of his hands moves from jaw to shoulder; he was half sorry there wasn't skin to touch, but he's willing enough to simply touch over fabric as his hand wanders without real aim.]
[Feeling that moment where Chris melts is enough to melt Erik himself. He leans his back a little heavier against the wall of the alcove, while at the same time his lips press in harder to that kiss.
Chris can explore any element of his mouth that he wants, and Erik won't stop him. There's a selfish streak in this vampire that would very much enjoy if the lord accidentally pricked his tongue on those points, but he won't seek to force it to happen.
While Chris's hands wander without aim, Erik's are firmly rooted in the man's hair, alternating between light scrapes against his scalp and testing tugs, listening carefully to see which gets the most reaction.]
Chris can explore any element of his mouth that he wants, and Erik won't stop him. There's a selfish streak in this vampire that would very much enjoy if the lord accidentally pricked his tongue on those points, but he won't seek to force it to happen.
While Chris's hands wander without aim, Erik's are firmly rooted in the man's hair, alternating between light scrapes against his scalp and testing tugs, listening carefully to see which gets the most reaction.]
[His hands reach Erik's sides when that first scrape of nail along his scalp comes and causes his own nails to dig in a little more and his interest in the kiss to turn more hungry. The tug earns a grown against Erik's lips and both as Erik tests, has the heat in him rising sharply.
He certainly likes both and he pulls lightly at the next hold in his hair to cause the tug to be harder while Chris' lips shift their attention to Erik's throat. Kisses that turn sharper with scrapes of blunt teeth and skin sucked between them. His hands settle just above Erik's hips when he finally pulls back to press a perfectly chaste kiss to his cheek.]
You're welcome to pull and run nail over what you like...I've been known to enjoy more'n a bit of bite and pain in my play.
[It's an open invitation left as he lowers himself to his knees before the other man, his hands at Erik's hips moving in to work the closure of his pants open.]
He certainly likes both and he pulls lightly at the next hold in his hair to cause the tug to be harder while Chris' lips shift their attention to Erik's throat. Kisses that turn sharper with scrapes of blunt teeth and skin sucked between them. His hands settle just above Erik's hips when he finally pulls back to press a perfectly chaste kiss to his cheek.]
You're welcome to pull and run nail over what you like...I've been known to enjoy more'n a bit of bite and pain in my play.
[It's an open invitation left as he lowers himself to his knees before the other man, his hands at Erik's hips moving in to work the closure of his pants open.]
[Aren't those reactions deliciously improper? He craves more--more of those sweet noises. And hearing Chris tell him to be as rough as he likes has quite the engorging effect, which Chris is sure to notice once he gets Erik's suit pants unzipped.]
Funny you should mention bite. I happen to have a very sharp set of teeth and an even sharper need to bury them in sweet flesh like yours.
[His fingers tighten on Chris's hair now, enough to tug the roots almost to the point of pain, just at the cusp of it.]
It poses no danger to you. I can heal what wounds I cause.
Funny you should mention bite. I happen to have a very sharp set of teeth and an even sharper need to bury them in sweet flesh like yours.
[His fingers tighten on Chris's hair now, enough to tug the roots almost to the point of pain, just at the cusp of it.]
It poses no danger to you. I can heal what wounds I cause.
[He gets Erik's pants unzipped and lowered only as much as he needs, he'd had intention of mouthing at the outline of his stiffening length, but those fingers in his hair, tight and deliciously sharp in their grip have Chris arching with a gasp and, though not visible on his knees as he is, he can feel himself growing hard in response. He was a sucker for artfully placed pain.
He looks up at Erik, pupils wide with arousal, but there's still thought there, sharp and turning.
He hadn't let a vampire bite him before. Hadn't had one bite him (to his memory) since Kyle had cornered him over a year ago in his madness. He shouldn't, he was a Death Cleric of the Raven Queen, the undead were, by all rights, his enemy and intended prey, a cause set aside for their situation and the fact many of the undead here were just people and a lot of them kind. A truce-bordering-alliance did not mean baring your neck.
And yet.]
So long as it puts no sway in my head aside my own, you're welcome to show me what niceties your mouth can provide as well.
He looks up at Erik, pupils wide with arousal, but there's still thought there, sharp and turning.
He hadn't let a vampire bite him before. Hadn't had one bite him (to his memory) since Kyle had cornered him over a year ago in his madness. He shouldn't, he was a Death Cleric of the Raven Queen, the undead were, by all rights, his enemy and intended prey, a cause set aside for their situation and the fact many of the undead here were just people and a lot of them kind. A truce-bordering-alliance did not mean baring your neck.
And yet.]
So long as it puts no sway in my head aside my own, you're welcome to show me what niceties your mouth can provide as well.
[Chris looked lovely before, but on his knees, looking up into Erik's face with that intoxicating mixture of intelligent arousal well... the only word that does it justice is 'ravishing.' His grip tightens almost imperceptibly, just enough to start making Chris's scalp itch.]
My word as a vampire [He is very intentionally outing himself, so he can't be accused of shrouding his nature] and as a lord. My fangs bear no venom, and I myself cast no magic save the pleasure any mortal man can conjure.
My word as a vampire [He is very intentionally outing himself, so he can't be accused of shrouding his nature] and as a lord. My fangs bear no venom, and I myself cast no magic save the pleasure any mortal man can conjure.
[The small groan that tingle in his scalp earns is entirely involuntary and there's nothing to be done for it, but try to gain a return. One of his hands, still braced on Erik's hips, blindly shifts to reach into his smalls to wrap calloused fingers around the vampire's cock.
There's overt challenge in Chris' eyes, playfully intended but sharp as those fingers in his hair.]
Then you're welcome to have your fill as you like...should that be before or after I have mine?
There's overt challenge in Chris' eyes, playfully intended but sharp as those fingers in his hair.]
Then you're welcome to have your fill as you like...should that be before or after I have mine?
[Chris earns that return and some. Erik was not wholly prepared for him to go right for the prize, so the strangled noise of pleasure that's wrung out of him is embarrassingly candid.]
A-ah, ha ha. [He plays it off with a laugh.]
If I partake of you before then I will feel warm to your touch. If that is something desirable for you?
[Some do not care for how, well, cadaverous his skin feels. Not exactly a pleasant thought, that.]
A-ah, ha ha. [He plays it off with a laugh.]
If I partake of you before then I will feel warm to your touch. If that is something desirable for you?
[Some do not care for how, well, cadaverous his skin feels. Not exactly a pleasant thought, that.]
[He at least has the decency to not seem overly pleased with himself. Usually, he enjoyed taking his time, teasing and enticing more...but in the middle of an art exhibit, tucked away in a corner, it seemed more worthwhile to be straightforward.
And the sound he got from Erik was well worth it.]
Hmmm... [His thumb brushes over sensitive skin as he seems to take his time in considering the offer.]
Alright, then, let's give it a try.
[[He gives a small squeeze, but then pulls his hand free and stands, moving it instead to hold Erik's hip.
Chris leans in to kiss the other man's jaw, brief and more for a desire for the action than seeking anything in particular.]
Never done this willingly so walk me through what I should do.
And the sound he got from Erik was well worth it.]
Hmmm... [His thumb brushes over sensitive skin as he seems to take his time in considering the offer.]
Alright, then, let's give it a try.
[[He gives a small squeeze, but then pulls his hand free and stands, moving it instead to hold Erik's hip.
Chris leans in to kiss the other man's jaw, brief and more for a desire for the action than seeking anything in particular.]
Never done this willingly so walk me through what I should do.
[Erik awaits his decision with eyes half-lidded, softly cooing at the tender touch sliding over his cock. He doesn't mind a man who can do a little teasing while still getting right to the point. That's a skill of its own.
And that kiss is so sweet, he's tempted to return it. Only, he feels the need to fully look Chris in the eyes for this next part.]
I note that you specify willingly. If you've had some bad experiences with this in the past, I'll be sure to keep it in mind.
[He lifts a hand to rest two fingers beneath Chris's chin, not exerting any force, but rather letting them trail down to rest just above the man's pulse.]
I'll go right here. It will start like a kiss, then a sharp pierce and suction. It will be like a rough hickey for you. All you need to do is moan for me, show me how you like the pain.
And that kiss is so sweet, he's tempted to return it. Only, he feels the need to fully look Chris in the eyes for this next part.]
I note that you specify willingly. If you've had some bad experiences with this in the past, I'll be sure to keep it in mind.
[He lifts a hand to rest two fingers beneath Chris's chin, not exerting any force, but rather letting them trail down to rest just above the man's pulse.]
I'll go right here. It will start like a kiss, then a sharp pierce and suction. It will be like a rough hickey for you. All you need to do is moan for me, show me how you like the pain.
[There's a softer look in Chris' eye for the thoughtfulness offered and he smiles a bit in acknowledgement. He and Kyle were friends now, but that didn't make the memory of that dark alley any more pleasant. This one, however, would likely be far better.]
Oh, now that I'm sure I can do.
[The hand not on Erik's hip moves up to brush his jaw, then curl around his shoulder to give a subtle pull closer.]
As you like, my lord.
Oh, now that I'm sure I can do.
[The hand not on Erik's hip moves up to brush his jaw, then curl around his shoulder to give a subtle pull closer.]
As you like, my lord.
[Erik will never deny that he is a predator, and that the scent of fear triggers hunger in him. But the human part of his psyche has no desire for feeding on an unwilling, struggling meal. It's much more pleasant to lure his target in with mutual respect, to feel them heat up with their own desire. It makes the blood taste so sweet.]
Don't hold back for me.
[Sparks light in his eyes as Chris utters those intoxicating words. Never has being called lord made him thrum so powerfully with lust. And that subtle pull breaks the last of his restraint. He must hear this delicious man moaning for him. He needs that like burning, and that need translates into his fist tightening into Chris's hair once more.
Leaning in, his tongue draws a crisscrossing line over Chris's pulse, tasting the flutter like a cat lapping from a saucer. Then his lips part and close around the newly wetted spot, slow and savoring while he sucks heat to the surface. And while the skin is still sucked tight, his top fangs prick two perfect, shallow holes. He soothes the sting immediately with more licks, encouraging the blood to flow to the surface for him in tasty little dew drops.]
Don't hold back for me.
[Sparks light in his eyes as Chris utters those intoxicating words. Never has being called lord made him thrum so powerfully with lust. And that subtle pull breaks the last of his restraint. He must hear this delicious man moaning for him. He needs that like burning, and that need translates into his fist tightening into Chris's hair once more.
Leaning in, his tongue draws a crisscrossing line over Chris's pulse, tasting the flutter like a cat lapping from a saucer. Then his lips part and close around the newly wetted spot, slow and savoring while he sucks heat to the surface. And while the skin is still sucked tight, his top fangs prick two perfect, shallow holes. He soothes the sting immediately with more licks, encouraging the blood to flow to the surface for him in tasty little dew drops.]
[He keeps relatively still as Erik leans in and there's certainly in increase in the rate of his pulse for the anticipation and some latent part of his mind that says his morals shouldn't be letting this happen...but his morality has always been a little questionable and the feeling of a tongue on his neck has him squeezing Erik's hip.
Hickeys were some of his favorite marks to wear and his eyes close for the feeling. But then there's more, a sting that earns a pleased gasp.]
Going slow...what a gentleman.
[He has a high pain tolerance, certainly, but it just makes the feeling of a tongue swiping at the stinging spot sweeter and his voice a bit more breathy than it was before.]
Hickeys were some of his favorite marks to wear and his eyes close for the feeling. But then there's more, a sting that earns a pleased gasp.]
Going slow...what a gentleman.
[He has a high pain tolerance, certainly, but it just makes the feeling of a tongue swiping at the stinging spot sweeter and his voice a bit more breathy than it was before.]
[He murmurs, his lips skimming against Chris's skin as he shapes the words slowly:] Savoring the moment...
[He punctuates that with a lingering stroke of his tongue over the wounds, harder and rougher. There's so much to savor in those noises. Each little gasp and squeeze makes him burn inside. And now, with new blood in him, a flush is rising in his own skin--like he's coming alive.]
I could lap you up like this for hours.
[He punctuates that with a lingering stroke of his tongue over the wounds, harder and rougher. There's so much to savor in those noises. Each little gasp and squeeze makes him burn inside. And now, with new blood in him, a flush is rising in his own skin--like he's coming alive.]
I could lap you up like this for hours.
[Whether it's the motion or the words, one or both of them earn a shudder from him and gooseflesh down his neck and arms. His next breath is strained and his fingers abandon their hold on Erik's shoulder to stroke through his hair instead.]
Is that what you'd like? Keep me under tongue for so long I start to squirm and beg? I don't make a habit of begging for anything.
[The hand at Erik's hip finally makes a nuisance of itself as though to prove his words and slips back to grab at Erik's ass, Chris' long arms making up some for the fact he wasn't willing to move his neck from the other man's mouth. Not yet.]
Is that what you'd like? Keep me under tongue for so long I start to squirm and beg? I don't make a habit of begging for anything.
[The hand at Erik's hip finally makes a nuisance of itself as though to prove his words and slips back to grab at Erik's ass, Chris' long arms making up some for the fact he wasn't willing to move his neck from the other man's mouth. Not yet.]
[A low rumbling chuckle rises from Erik, and he drags his tongue aside to taste the way Chris's flesh prickles and rises.]
I'd love nothing more. A real challenge makes victory taste much... [Lick.] sweeter... [kiss.]
[The hard muscle beneath Chris's wandering hand clenches tight, and Erik's eyes spark with delight at the daring. Lord Sonom is no wilting flower and that's just how Erik likes it.]
I wonder how long I could make it last. Maybe I'd keep going, even after I break you. Make you beg me over and over.
[His mouth closes over the new spot he's chosen, not puncturing it with fangs, but sucking hard intending to leave a different kind of mark, one that will linger and turn shades. One he won't have to heal up when he's done. He likes the idea of Chris walking out of here wearing his handiwork for all to see. One more piece of art in this gallery]
I'd love nothing more. A real challenge makes victory taste much... [Lick.] sweeter... [kiss.]
[The hard muscle beneath Chris's wandering hand clenches tight, and Erik's eyes spark with delight at the daring. Lord Sonom is no wilting flower and that's just how Erik likes it.]
I wonder how long I could make it last. Maybe I'd keep going, even after I break you. Make you beg me over and over.
[His mouth closes over the new spot he's chosen, not puncturing it with fangs, but sucking hard intending to leave a different kind of mark, one that will linger and turn shades. One he won't have to heal up when he's done. He likes the idea of Chris walking out of here wearing his handiwork for all to see. One more piece of art in this gallery]
If you could break me, dear sir. The last and only to succeed was an actual demon of lust. You might find your work cut out. But the challenge is enticing.
[His breathy chuckle gives away how pleased he is for that clench and his hand slides up to find the hem of his pants and slip inside instead, more than a little grateful he'd chosen to leave Erik's pants open. It made making a nuisance of wandering fingers against warming skin much easier. They slide down along the firm muscle of his ass and toy a touch along the inside of one cheek.]
I wonder what- ah!
[His fingers in Erik's hair grip tight as they can for the mark sucked into his neck and he leans into it. He's not sure about wearing the bite marks themselves, not yet, but bruises. Oh, bruises could most certainly stay. He liked marks on any day, but marks placed by people who caught his eye so thoroughly...he'd wear them with the pride and honor they deserved.
He pulls slightly, invitation for Erik to pull back, if he will, so Chris might reclaim his mouth with an eager delve of his tongue.]
[His breathy chuckle gives away how pleased he is for that clench and his hand slides up to find the hem of his pants and slip inside instead, more than a little grateful he'd chosen to leave Erik's pants open. It made making a nuisance of wandering fingers against warming skin much easier. They slide down along the firm muscle of his ass and toy a touch along the inside of one cheek.]
I wonder what- ah!
[His fingers in Erik's hair grip tight as they can for the mark sucked into his neck and he leans into it. He's not sure about wearing the bite marks themselves, not yet, but bruises. Oh, bruises could most certainly stay. He liked marks on any day, but marks placed by people who caught his eye so thoroughly...he'd wear them with the pride and honor they deserved.
He pulls slightly, invitation for Erik to pull back, if he will, so Chris might reclaim his mouth with an eager delve of his tongue.]
I'm not daunted. The work is most of the fun. I would like to see how I stack up against a lust demon. What a colorful bedmate that must have been. Oh, yesss
[That last turns into a hiss as the man's fingers finds him very sensitive to intimate exploring touch.
And as the hiss dies, his lips pull into a wide split of a smile that he presses pointedly into the mark he's left on Chris's neck, so he can feel just how smugly Erik is enjoying stealing the words out of his mouth.
When Chris pulls on him, he does finally draw back, happily letting himself be swept up in his kiss. Chris may yet taste the fine tang of copper still coating Erik's mouth as his tongue delves in.]
[That last turns into a hiss as the man's fingers finds him very sensitive to intimate exploring touch.
And as the hiss dies, his lips pull into a wide split of a smile that he presses pointedly into the mark he's left on Chris's neck, so he can feel just how smugly Erik is enjoying stealing the words out of his mouth.
When Chris pulls on him, he does finally draw back, happily letting himself be swept up in his kiss. Chris may yet taste the fine tang of copper still coating Erik's mouth as his tongue delves in.]
[He shouldn't moan for the taste of his own blood still lingering in Erik's mouth, it shouldn't be enticing...and yet he finds it most certainly is in the same way he'd loved the feeling of it there when someone's fist hit just right in the middle of a bar brawl he'd started.
Those days were behind him...but that rush still runs through him like it was called by the flavor and Chris presses all the more into Erik for it: stepping into his space to press him back against the wall with a knee between the vampire's thighs.
Eventually, he at least needs breath and he pulls back again even as his fingers still keep a tight hold on Erik's hair.
His green eyes are nearly black from desire when he seeks to meet Erik's gaze again.]
I think...if I'm not careful, I might find you a bit intoxicating.
[And he's not sure which is worse: that fact or the fact he's not sure he wants to be careful.]
Those days were behind him...but that rush still runs through him like it was called by the flavor and Chris presses all the more into Erik for it: stepping into his space to press him back against the wall with a knee between the vampire's thighs.
Eventually, he at least needs breath and he pulls back again even as his fingers still keep a tight hold on Erik's hair.
His green eyes are nearly black from desire when he seeks to meet Erik's gaze again.]
I think...if I'm not careful, I might find you a bit intoxicating.
[And he's not sure which is worse: that fact or the fact he's not sure he wants to be careful.]
[Can a kiss taste smug? Perhaps it can, since the shape of Erik's mouth curls into a definitely smug grin as he listens to Chris moan, and feels the press between his thighs. He could be as immovable as stone if he wished, but he lets himself be crowded up against the wall quite happily.
When Chris pulls back for air, Erik shifts one hand out of the man's hair, to cup the side of his cheek and stroke a thumb tenderly beneath one of his deep green eyes. He could lose himself in such dark pools of desire, so easily.]
I assure you, my dear Lord Sonom, you are the intoxicating one.
When Chris pulls back for air, Erik shifts one hand out of the man's hair, to cup the side of his cheek and stroke a thumb tenderly beneath one of his deep green eyes. He could lose himself in such dark pools of desire, so easily.]
I assure you, my dear Lord Sonom, you are the intoxicating one.
[He knows Erik only moves because he lets them move, there's immeasurable strength in him Chris can't deny he finds appealing. Just one more thing on the list of marks for this man Chris had not been intending to start tallying at the beginning of this evening.
Then there's a hand on his cheek and his own comes up to cup it even as he leans in for another kiss, this one achingly slow and gentle compared to the hurried need of the last.
When he pulls back again, his voice is low and breath uneven.]
Did you want more from me or shall I offer my demonstration?
Then there's a hand on his cheek and his own comes up to cup it even as he leans in for another kiss, this one achingly slow and gentle compared to the hurried need of the last.
When he pulls back again, his voice is low and breath uneven.]
Did you want more from me or shall I offer my demonstration?
[The push and pull between their hungry devouring kiss of before and this achingly slow and savoring one has Erik drawing in a few steadying breaths for himself. That only adds to the illusion of life filling him now that blood warms his skin.]
Your 'demonstration' is what I want most. I crave to see you put your talents to their best use.
[Chris may surely be able to feel with his knee against Erik's throbbing bulge, just how much he's craving that. He's straining to keep himself from pushing down on the top of the man's head to force him to it.]
Your 'demonstration' is what I want most. I crave to see you put your talents to their best use.
[Chris may surely be able to feel with his knee against Erik's throbbing bulge, just how much he's craving that. He's straining to keep himself from pushing down on the top of the man's head to force him to it.]
Happily done.
[Chris' smile flashes to something devilish and playful as he gives a quick peck to Erik's cheek. As though this were a simple and chaste game.
Far less chaste is the way he easily slides down to his knees, hands skating down Erik's body as he goes. There's no need for preamble as he reaches again to untuck that hardened length from the other man's pants and stroke nimble fingers along it. He presses a kiss to the tip as his fingers take hold of the base and Chris looks up to find Erik's eyes. He liked to be watched in this, and he holds those lovely eyes with his as he licks a long stripe up the underside of Erik's cock and then along the ridge near the tip.]
[Chris' smile flashes to something devilish and playful as he gives a quick peck to Erik's cheek. As though this were a simple and chaste game.
Far less chaste is the way he easily slides down to his knees, hands skating down Erik's body as he goes. There's no need for preamble as he reaches again to untuck that hardened length from the other man's pants and stroke nimble fingers along it. He presses a kiss to the tip as his fingers take hold of the base and Chris looks up to find Erik's eyes. He liked to be watched in this, and he holds those lovely eyes with his as he licks a long stripe up the underside of Erik's cock and then along the ridge near the tip.]
Ah, yesss
[The words come out a hissing sigh as Chris releases him from his pants and strokes him. Such lovely attention deserves all the reward he can give, so he pats Chris's hair affectionately, as he stares the man in his lovely green eyes. They remind him of dew sparkling on fresh green leaves.
Erik's own eyelids flutter briefly as Chris takes him by the base and licks up him. He's sensitive all over, but the base... that's where it hits best. Then again, the way Chris's tongue runs along his ridge has him shuddering just as hard with delight.]
Such a clever tongue you have.
[The words come out a hissing sigh as Chris releases him from his pants and strokes him. Such lovely attention deserves all the reward he can give, so he pats Chris's hair affectionately, as he stares the man in his lovely green eyes. They remind him of dew sparkling on fresh green leaves.
Erik's own eyelids flutter briefly as Chris takes him by the base and licks up him. He's sensitive all over, but the base... that's where it hits best. Then again, the way Chris's tongue runs along his ridge has him shuddering just as hard with delight.]
Such a clever tongue you have.
[Erik's reactions are sublime and all the encouragement needed to start in earnest. He had promised to show what his mouth could do. And then some.
He keeps his hold, fingers only moving so he kept thumb and forefinger around the base and gave himself more surface to lave in detailed attention.
And more length to take in when Chris finally closes his eyes in pleased concentration as he works a slow slide of Erik's cock into his mouth. His tongue dances through the slit at the tip, then down the side and under as he dips lower. And lower. He stops with a nearly harsh suck once the head rests near the back of his throat. All in good time.
For now, he bobs with the ease of practice, his gentle tongue offset by the occasional brush of teeth along smooth skin.
He keeps his hold, fingers only moving so he kept thumb and forefinger around the base and gave himself more surface to lave in detailed attention.
And more length to take in when Chris finally closes his eyes in pleased concentration as he works a slow slide of Erik's cock into his mouth. His tongue dances through the slit at the tip, then down the side and under as he dips lower. And lower. He stops with a nearly harsh suck once the head rests near the back of his throat. All in good time.
For now, he bobs with the ease of practice, his gentle tongue offset by the occasional brush of teeth along smooth skin.
[Erik could keep his reactions more subdued if he felt it necessary, but where's the fun in that? He lets himself lean heavily against the wall, knees locking firm so Chris knows he's in no real danger of toppling. But he's drawing ragged breaths as if he really is desperate for air, and his fingers go from patting Chris's head to gripping hard in his hair once more.]
Yes. Like that. Just like that.
[When Chris has swallowed him down all the way to the back of his throat, he has to catch himself before he thrusts in harder. His fingers dig at Chris's scalp flexing with the effort he expends to hold himself still. Especially when he senses the brush of teeth.]
Mmmm, fuck. You're such a goddamn tease. Get a little rough with me, won't you? I can take it.
Yes. Like that. Just like that.
[When Chris has swallowed him down all the way to the back of his throat, he has to catch himself before he thrusts in harder. His fingers dig at Chris's scalp flexing with the effort he expends to hold himself still. Especially when he senses the brush of teeth.]
Mmmm, fuck. You're such a goddamn tease. Get a little rough with me, won't you? I can take it.
[The way he's braced is nice, like he couldn't (likely could) hold himself up all the same. Nicer still is that hard grip in his hair. For a moment, he could picture that restraint snapping, the harsh thrust of Erik using his throat...and it shoots straight to his cock.
For now, he pulls back and all the way off to press a teasingly gentle kiss to Erik's head. He smiles sweetly up at the vampire, even if he's still beholden to the hands in his hair.]
Oh, I will...I've no doubt you can handle it...now trust me that I can as well. [His smile turns a touch more wicked.] I've trained down my gag reflex...you're invited to test it...
[Then he's got lips around that enticing cock once more as he takes Erik down, not just to the edge of his throat, but into it. The image in his mind's eye conjures pictures of Chris buried deep in the man before him, of what it might feel like to have this cock in his hand while he railed Erik as hard as he could...what it might feel like to have the vampire buried in him, thrusts deep and unrelenting...
He pulls back enough to moan into Erik's cock, his tongue pressed to the under side to have the vibrations sink into his flesh, takes a breath, then swallows him down again.]
For now, he pulls back and all the way off to press a teasingly gentle kiss to Erik's head. He smiles sweetly up at the vampire, even if he's still beholden to the hands in his hair.]
Oh, I will...I've no doubt you can handle it...now trust me that I can as well. [His smile turns a touch more wicked.] I've trained down my gag reflex...you're invited to test it...
[Then he's got lips around that enticing cock once more as he takes Erik down, not just to the edge of his throat, but into it. The image in his mind's eye conjures pictures of Chris buried deep in the man before him, of what it might feel like to have this cock in his hand while he railed Erik as hard as he could...what it might feel like to have the vampire buried in him, thrusts deep and unrelenting...
He pulls back enough to moan into Erik's cock, his tongue pressed to the under side to have the vibrations sink into his flesh, takes a breath, then swallows him down again.]
[What is it about gentle kisses and a sweet smile laid side by side with such salty words that drives Erik so madly into lust? He can't say, but he beams down on Chris with such honest affection in return.]
What a marvelous invitation. I wholeheartedly accept it-Ah! Christ!
[That exclamation is loud and exceptionally involuntary. Not that he didn't take Chris at his word, but it's quite a pleasant surprise, all the same, to feel himself down the man's throat, and so seemingly effortlessly. Now the heavy breathing isn't just for show. He needs it to steady himself.]
Oh, Chris... [He's hoarse, breathless.
This time he doesn't hold himself back. As Chris swallows him down he forces in harder, using the grip on Chris's hair to make sure he can't pull away from it. He won't linger too long, not wanting to actually choke the man, but he also won't give Chris much chance to rest between this and his next thrust either.]
Such a beautiful, fuckible mouth on you.
What a marvelous invitation. I wholeheartedly accept it-Ah! Christ!
[That exclamation is loud and exceptionally involuntary. Not that he didn't take Chris at his word, but it's quite a pleasant surprise, all the same, to feel himself down the man's throat, and so seemingly effortlessly. Now the heavy breathing isn't just for show. He needs it to steady himself.]
Oh, Chris... [He's hoarse, breathless.
This time he doesn't hold himself back. As Chris swallows him down he forces in harder, using the grip on Chris's hair to make sure he can't pull away from it. He won't linger too long, not wanting to actually choke the man, but he also won't give Chris much chance to rest between this and his next thrust either.]
Such a beautiful, fuckible mouth on you.
[He uses rthe next chance to breathe as a moment to make his enjoyment known, to moan low for how Erik uses his throat just how Chris wants. Well...almost. The next moment he has to breathe, he takes a deeper breath and then moves his hands up to cup the curve of Erik's ass and press him in when he seems ready to pull back out.
Chris can't stop him, of course, but it's invitation further. He can hold his breath much longer than most and he had every intention to use it to Erik's benefit.
The thrusts turn his mind to soft fuzz and sensation and he wants nothing more than to lose himself in that and the beautiful sounds of the other man's enjoyment. What thought he does have he spares to the careful, jolting scrape of teeth along soft skin as Erik pulls out next.]
Chris can't stop him, of course, but it's invitation further. He can hold his breath much longer than most and he had every intention to use it to Erik's benefit.
The thrusts turn his mind to soft fuzz and sensation and he wants nothing more than to lose himself in that and the beautiful sounds of the other man's enjoyment. What thought he does have he spares to the careful, jolting scrape of teeth along soft skin as Erik pulls out next.]
[Erik's eyes blaze with dark delight when, just as he's about to pull back to give Chris room for air, hands on his ass stop him, insisting on keeping him in.
He'll trust Chris not to let himself be gagged to death. And with an invitation this good, who is he to turn it down?
So, rather than pull away, he pushes back in nice and tight into Chris's throat, groaning appreciatively as his cock spasms in the warm tight heat. And without backing out, he rocks his hips forward more, reveling in the friction all around him.]
My God [It's a desperate whisper] you're going to make me lose it like this. Mmmmm, yes!
He'll trust Chris not to let himself be gagged to death. And with an invitation this good, who is he to turn it down?
So, rather than pull away, he pushes back in nice and tight into Chris's throat, groaning appreciatively as his cock spasms in the warm tight heat. And without backing out, he rocks his hips forward more, reveling in the friction all around him.]
My God [It's a desperate whisper] you're going to make me lose it like this. Mmmmm, yes!
[It's been a little while, but Hythlodaeus thinks he's finally gotten himself ready for training. He's found a nice comfortable pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt, although he wasn't sure if he needed anything else. Either way, he sends a video to Chris with his usual smile and a wave.]
Greetings! I hope I find you well- and that you recall who I am, heh. I finally think I'm ready to learn how to defend myself, so if you happen to be available, I should like to meet with you some time. Just let me know when, hm?
Greetings! I hope I find you well- and that you recall who I am, heh. I finally think I'm ready to learn how to defend myself, so if you happen to be available, I should like to meet with you some time. Just let me know when, hm?
[As soon as he sees the face in the message, there’s a twinge of guilt. He’d said he’d reach out and then everything with the letters, Jon, and wallowing in his own self-pity. He needed to get his head back on straight and…truly, this was perfect timing. Maybe Hythlodaeus was psychic in some level.
He answers with the decency of a chagrined but genuine smile.]
I most certainly have not forgotten so enchanting a man as to create flowers on tables. I hope you are well and I apologize for the lapse in time. I would very much like to start our lessons.
[He pauses as he considers the options.]
We could meet along the beach, if you don’t mind the threat of sand in potentially uncomfortable places, or there’s a place in the Down called the Arena built for this sort of combat. I’m a friend of the manager there and I’m certain he wouldn’t mind it’s use.
He answers with the decency of a chagrined but genuine smile.]
I most certainly have not forgotten so enchanting a man as to create flowers on tables. I hope you are well and I apologize for the lapse in time. I would very much like to start our lessons.
[He pauses as he considers the options.]
We could meet along the beach, if you don’t mind the threat of sand in potentially uncomfortable places, or there’s a place in the Down called the Arena built for this sort of combat. I’m a friend of the manager there and I’m certain he wouldn’t mind it’s use.
Perhaps you'll be a natural! We'll see.
Yeah, meet me there and I'll get us set up, I'm not too far from it to head there now.
[With both of his jobs in the Down, he's more 'on call' than actually scheduled today, so something to do with himself would be nice.]
Call me if you get lost, but it's a straight shot from the bridge, can't miss it.
Yeah, meet me there and I'll get us set up, I'm not too far from it to head there now.
[With both of his jobs in the Down, he's more 'on call' than actually scheduled today, so something to do with himself would be nice.]
Call me if you get lost, but it's a straight shot from the bridge, can't miss it.
Noted. I'll be there in a moment.
[He arrives not much later- he has a bottle of water in hand but nothing else, unsure of if he needed anything. He raises his free hand as he approaches in greeting, beaming.]
Greetings, friend! I am ready for my lessons, I presume. Did I need anything besides the hydration..?
[He arrives not much later- he has a bottle of water in hand but nothing else, unsure of if he needed anything. He raises his free hand as he approaches in greeting, beaming.]
Greetings, friend! I am ready for my lessons, I presume. Did I need anything besides the hydration..?
[Chris has made sure the space is free and clear and set with mats to cushion any impending falls either might face as well as hung a couple towels along the railing that outlines the arena.
When Hythlodaeus arrives, Chris is in the middle of wrapping his hands and knuckles in binding tape. He’s stripped down to just breeches and a loose tunic for ease of movement.
He grins at the greeting and gives a little half wave with his wrapped hand.
There’s a flicker of amusement for the question, but he shakes his head. Gods, he was cute in more than looks, wasn’t he?]
Nope, should be plenty, rest’ll be in you. First and foremost: stretching elsewise, you’ll not be moving far tomorrow.
[He gestures for Hythlodaeus to join him in the ring and take up the space opposite Chris.]
Copy me for now, then we’ll move to forms and proper positions.
I know we were a couple drinks in and playing a bit coy, but are you comfortable with me laying hands on your person to show and correct as needed? If not, we’ll manage.
When Hythlodaeus arrives, Chris is in the middle of wrapping his hands and knuckles in binding tape. He’s stripped down to just breeches and a loose tunic for ease of movement.
He grins at the greeting and gives a little half wave with his wrapped hand.
There’s a flicker of amusement for the question, but he shakes his head. Gods, he was cute in more than looks, wasn’t he?]
Nope, should be plenty, rest’ll be in you. First and foremost: stretching elsewise, you’ll not be moving far tomorrow.
[He gestures for Hythlodaeus to join him in the ring and take up the space opposite Chris.]
Copy me for now, then we’ll move to forms and proper positions.
I know we were a couple drinks in and playing a bit coy, but are you comfortable with me laying hands on your person to show and correct as needed? If not, we’ll manage.
[Hythlodaeus gets into the ring and chuckles at the question.]
Of course you may.
[He certainly won't mind having an attractive man laying his hands upon him. He sets his water aside for now, and watches Chris expectantly.]
Let us begin, then.
[Stretching isn't so foreign to him, at least. He does it before he practises with his bow. He supposes the stretches will be different here though, so he'll follow Chris' lead.]
How have you fared since our last meeting?
Of course you may.
[He certainly won't mind having an attractive man laying his hands upon him. He sets his water aside for now, and watches Chris expectantly.]
Let us begin, then.
[Stretching isn't so foreign to him, at least. He does it before he practises with his bow. He supposes the stretches will be different here though, so he'll follow Chris' lead.]
How have you fared since our last meeting?
[He leads them through stretches for arms, shoulders, and core. Nothing too strenuous, but enough to wake up the muscles while they talk.]
I’ve fared better before, but nothing too concerning in the long run. Just managing life in Duplicity.
How about you? Finding new friends and proper footing?
I’ve fared better before, but nothing too concerning in the long run. Just managing life in Duplicity.
How about you? Finding new friends and proper footing?
I've made one or two friends here.
[Maybe not many, but he hasn't been really putting himself out there. Either way, he's grateful for anyone he has.]
Finding my footing here has been difficult, but I'm sure all will be well in the end. I am not the only one in such a strange situation, after all!
[And if other people can thrive here, so can he. That's what he's going to believe, anyway.]
[Maybe not many, but he hasn't been really putting himself out there. Either way, he's grateful for anyone he has.]
Finding my footing here has been difficult, but I'm sure all will be well in the end. I am not the only one in such a strange situation, after all!
[And if other people can thrive here, so can he. That's what he's going to believe, anyway.]
[He casts a look to Hythlodaeus as he stretches the other side. Almost finished now, for their purposes.]
Certainly not and plenty here good enough to help with most things.
Have you decided to take up work at all? Good way to meet people and keep yourself busy. Plus, with your abilities, there’s plenty here like to give you a place alongside them.
Certainly not and plenty here good enough to help with most things.
Have you decided to take up work at all? Good way to meet people and keep yourself busy. Plus, with your abilities, there’s plenty here like to give you a place alongside them.
I was offered a job making charms at a Theatre. Ah... I should contact Nate again. I was unsure of myself, with how limited my magicks are here... but I suppose if I cannot make charms I can simply help with the shop, as he said.
[He smiles, a little sheepish.]
Without my magic I fear I am terribly unimpressive in most aspects. My powers were all overshadowed by my peers, with the exception of my soul sight. 'Twas of little consequence when I held the same position for several thousand years anyway, but here I feel more of a need to prove myself, I suppose.
[He smiles, a little sheepish.]
Without my magic I fear I am terribly unimpressive in most aspects. My powers were all overshadowed by my peers, with the exception of my soul sight. 'Twas of little consequence when I held the same position for several thousand years anyway, but here I feel more of a need to prove myself, I suppose.
[He stops mid-stretch and loses form as he turns to look at him sleigh a small smile.]
Nate offered you work at the theatre? If you do so in the shop, makes me your boss. [He winks, but then shakes his head at himself as he gestures for Hythlodaeus to stop. Good enough.]
Technically, anyway, Nate and Caleb’s only bosses that matter. You should, though! Even if your magic’s limited compared how it was, it’s yours and not a thing any of us can do. And…any sane extra hands helping to keep that mess in line would be of benefit.
[He moves to the other man’s side to put a hand on his shoulder.]
No pressure, meant, just know you’d be welcome.
Take up a defensive position for me, best to your mind.
Nate offered you work at the theatre? If you do so in the shop, makes me your boss. [He winks, but then shakes his head at himself as he gestures for Hythlodaeus to stop. Good enough.]
Technically, anyway, Nate and Caleb’s only bosses that matter. You should, though! Even if your magic’s limited compared how it was, it’s yours and not a thing any of us can do. And…any sane extra hands helping to keep that mess in line would be of benefit.
[He moves to the other man’s side to put a hand on his shoulder.]
No pressure, meant, just know you’d be welcome.
Take up a defensive position for me, best to your mind.
Heh... I'll be sure to contact Nate soon, then. Ah. Defensive position?
[He pauses, then moves so that he's facing the side more, one arm out.]
Truth be told, if I was attacked and did not have my bow... I would try to use my magic to distract or wound, then flee. I'm unsure of how to defend myself without either of those things.
[But that's why he needs Chris to help him, right?]
[He pauses, then moves so that he's facing the side more, one arm out.]
Truth be told, if I was attacked and did not have my bow... I would try to use my magic to distract or wound, then flee. I'm unsure of how to defend myself without either of those things.
[But that's why he needs Chris to help him, right?]
[Chris looks over the form and nods.]
That's a wonderful caster's position.
[He takes Hythlodaeus' wrists gently and guides them both up closer to his chest, elbows bent and slightly to each side to create a smei-triangle in front of his body.]
Wanted to know your 'default' cause you'll be needing two, depending on how you're fighting. For this, you want arms up, but slightly to the side, not directly in front of you, need to be able to block as well as hit.
[He reaches for the other man's hips to turn and square them and nudged one foot with his own to get them even with the shoulders they were supporting.]
Body's the sword, shield, and armor in a fist fight, got to protect it as well as know how to sharpen it. How's this feel?
That's a wonderful caster's position.
[He takes Hythlodaeus' wrists gently and guides them both up closer to his chest, elbows bent and slightly to each side to create a smei-triangle in front of his body.]
Wanted to know your 'default' cause you'll be needing two, depending on how you're fighting. For this, you want arms up, but slightly to the side, not directly in front of you, need to be able to block as well as hit.
[He reaches for the other man's hips to turn and square them and nudged one foot with his own to get them even with the shoulders they were supporting.]
Body's the sword, shield, and armor in a fist fight, got to protect it as well as know how to sharpen it. How's this feel?
Edited 2022-04-03 16:13 (UTC)
[He lets Chris move him and takes in what he's saying dutifully.]
Ah... it feels strange, but I'm sure I will get used to it.
[At least, he hopes he will. But with enough practice, surely this will become second nature to him.]
I didn't realise there was so much preparation involved in fist fighting. I was rather under the impression that you simply hit things.
[Hythlodaeus chuckles, but he supposes he sees where he was wrong. Any kind of strenuous activity should ideally involve warming up, he's sure.]
Ah... it feels strange, but I'm sure I will get used to it.
[At least, he hopes he will. But with enough practice, surely this will become second nature to him.]
I didn't realise there was so much preparation involved in fist fighting. I was rather under the impression that you simply hit things.
[Hythlodaeus chuckles, but he supposes he sees where he was wrong. Any kind of strenuous activity should ideally involve warming up, he's sure.]
Not entirely wrong, should someone take a swing at you, they’re not likely to give you time to stretch first afore you’ll need to respond. For sparring and practice, it’s wholly necessary so you know how not to do more damage to yourself if you’re caught out like that.
[He motions for Hythlodaeus to relax.]
Remember the stance, I'll be calling you for it when you've likely forgotten. Now, practicing proper forms for blocking and how to fold your fist to protect the bones in your hand.
[He walks him through the paces, how to bring his arms up in front of him at an angle to better move and block as hits come in, how to tuck his thumb against the outsides of his fingers and not under them, lest it break for a punch thrown and, if he seems particularly eager, how to wrap his hands to secure the bones in a planned fight.
When he's through, he casts a glance over his companion with a small tug of a smile at the corner of his mouth.]
You're doing well for first lesson...now show me that defensive stance of yours.
[He motions for Hythlodaeus to relax.]
Remember the stance, I'll be calling you for it when you've likely forgotten. Now, practicing proper forms for blocking and how to fold your fist to protect the bones in your hand.
[He walks him through the paces, how to bring his arms up in front of him at an angle to better move and block as hits come in, how to tuck his thumb against the outsides of his fingers and not under them, lest it break for a punch thrown and, if he seems particularly eager, how to wrap his hands to secure the bones in a planned fight.
When he's through, he casts a glance over his companion with a small tug of a smile at the corner of his mouth.]
You're doing well for first lesson...now show me that defensive stance of yours.
[He's excited to learn whatever Chris is willing to teach, so he tries his best to remember everything. When he's asked for his defensive stance, he recalls it mostly correctly, though there are a few mistakes in his posture that are easily fixed.]
How is this?
[He looks to Chris hopefully- he's expecting that it won't be perfect but he's certainly trying.]
My thanks again for teaching me.
How is this?
[He looks to Chris hopefully- he's expecting that it won't be perfect but he's certainly trying.]
My thanks again for teaching me.
[Chris looks over the stance, but his smile is tell enough that he's pleased.]
Good! Very good.
[He moves about him, making small adjustments here and there with a press to his back and shoulder and a slight nudging of an arm to make the angle stronger in practice.
He looks him over again and nods, but motions he can stand down.]
It's...genuinely my pleasure. Not tried to teach many others in the past, but you're an excellent student to try it with. Happy to keep this as regular as you like.
Good! Very good.
[He moves about him, making small adjustments here and there with a press to his back and shoulder and a slight nudging of an arm to make the angle stronger in practice.
He looks him over again and nods, but motions he can stand down.]
It's...genuinely my pleasure. Not tried to teach many others in the past, but you're an excellent student to try it with. Happy to keep this as regular as you like.
I think weekly would suit our purposes, yes?
[He's glad- he's enjoying himself, spending time with Chris. Relaxing, he smiles.]
And if you would like to go somewhere for a drink or two afterwards... well, it would be my pleasure to buy the drinks, this time.
[He's glad- he's enjoying himself, spending time with Chris. Relaxing, he smiles.]
And if you would like to go somewhere for a drink or two afterwards... well, it would be my pleasure to buy the drinks, this time.
Weekly'd do fine, gives you time to practice on your own, if you like, and come back with any questions or concerns.
And drinks now and then would be lovely, man who manages this place has a nice little bar nearby we could go to.
[Certainly, who'd be taking up the bill would change depending, but it seemed a nice arrangement. Something the look forward to each week.
Later, he might even realize helping Hythlodeaus helped clear his head a bit just as surely as an actual fight. An extra positive.]
And drinks now and then would be lovely, man who manages this place has a nice little bar nearby we could go to.
[Certainly, who'd be taking up the bill would change depending, but it seemed a nice arrangement. Something the look forward to each week.
Later, he might even realize helping Hythlodeaus helped clear his head a bit just as surely as an actual fight. An extra positive.]
Heh... I will do my best.
[He wonders what Emet-Selch will think of him practising in the apartment.]
That's perfect, then. It's settled!
[He seems excited at the prospect- mostly, he's just happy to be making a friend.]
I will leave the length of our practice to your discretion. For now, what else would you show me?
[He wonders what Emet-Selch will think of him practising in the apartment.]
That's perfect, then. It's settled!
[He seems excited at the prospect- mostly, he's just happy to be making a friend.]
I will leave the length of our practice to your discretion. For now, what else would you show me?
[He nods, that was certainly fair.]
It'll depend wholly on how much you've learned and, when we come to actual contact, what blows have been traded. For now, don't want to overwhelm you with everything at once.
Tell you what, show me what I've taught you so far, we'll go through and correct if needed, then I'll show you a few more basic blocks and we'll call it good for one week. Next week, you'll be teaching me what I taught you and then we'll learn new things and go on like that. How's it sound?
It'll depend wholly on how much you've learned and, when we come to actual contact, what blows have been traded. For now, don't want to overwhelm you with everything at once.
Tell you what, show me what I've taught you so far, we'll go through and correct if needed, then I'll show you a few more basic blocks and we'll call it good for one week. Next week, you'll be teaching me what I taught you and then we'll learn new things and go on like that. How's it sound?
It sounds delightful.
[He shows Chris his defensive stance again, and then moves on to show him how he's been taught to block. He's also eager to show that he remembered not to tuck his thumbs in.]
How am I doing?
[Even if he isn't really inclined to be violent, Hythlodaeus is intelligent. He'll be able to pick things up once he's been shown a few times. His defensive stance is getting better, though of course it is all fresh in his mind right now.]
[He shows Chris his defensive stance again, and then moves on to show him how he's been taught to block. He's also eager to show that he remembered not to tuck his thumbs in.]
How am I doing?
[Even if he isn't really inclined to be violent, Hythlodaeus is intelligent. He'll be able to pick things up once he's been shown a few times. His defensive stance is getting better, though of course it is all fresh in his mind right now.]
[Chris nods, eyes bright and expression pleased as there was little to correct. Yes, it was fresh in his mind, hence the need for review next week, but he was already catching on quick. Chris didn't doubt he'd pick it up quick.
That was just fine, he could adjust their lessons as needed.]
Honestly? Fantastic. You're incredibly sharp, I don't doubt you'll have at least the basics down in a handful of weeks and the rest is just alterations and evolutions of those basics.
[He smirks as his eyes switch from Hythlodaeus' form to his face.]
Soon, you too can defend against and sock assholes who come at you.
That was just fine, he could adjust their lessons as needed.]
Honestly? Fantastic. You're incredibly sharp, I don't doubt you'll have at least the basics down in a handful of weeks and the rest is just alterations and evolutions of those basics.
[He smirks as his eyes switch from Hythlodaeus' form to his face.]
Soon, you too can defend against and sock assholes who come at you.
Heh. No person has ever attacked me in such a way... I sincerely hope that doesn't change.
[But if it does, he'd rather be able to have a decent chance of fighting back.]
My thanks for the compliments, though. I'm sure it helps to have a competent teacher!
[Relaxing, he smiles at Chris.]
So, about those drinks. Where to?
[But if it does, he'd rather be able to have a decent chance of fighting back.]
My thanks for the compliments, though. I'm sure it helps to have a competent teacher!
[Relaxing, he smiles at Chris.]
So, about those drinks. Where to?
[Chris steps away to start unwrapping his hands and put up what little he'd taken for them to use as well as gather his jacket.]
Thought I'd treat you somewhere nicer and it's in the Up, so partway back to home anyway. Ever been to Honestea? My Tominant works there now and again: tea and pastries upstairs, liquor and tasteful nudes downstairs, plush seating either way.
Thought I'd treat you somewhere nicer and it's in the Up, so partway back to home anyway. Ever been to Honestea? My Tominant works there now and again: tea and pastries upstairs, liquor and tasteful nudes downstairs, plush seating either way.
I've never been, no. But I should like to see it!
[It sounds like a good time- he can't decide if he wants the tea and pastries, or the liquor at this point. Well, he promised Chris a drink, so perhaps they can sample the pastries another time.]
Lead the way, my friend.
[It sounds like a good time- he can't decide if he wants the tea and pastries, or the liquor at this point. Well, he promised Chris a drink, so perhaps they can sample the pastries another time.]
Lead the way, my friend.
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