ROLEPLAY HQ - spirits-of-athens

Aurelios awoke to a world shrouded in shadows, a realm unlike anything he had ever known. As his senses gradually returned, he found himself standing beside a dark, tranquil river that seemed to flow with a sense of ancient wisdom. His own thoughts felt muddled, like fading echoes of a forgotten melody. Confusion hung over him like a mist, obscuring his memories, leaving unable to tell how he had gotten here and why he was standing near such a strange place in the first place. He couldn’t remember any river like this near where he lived. He blinked, his eyes adjusting to the eerie glow that emanated from the river's surface. Around him, spectral figures drifted, their ethereal forms casting an almost haunting beauty. They moved with a quiet grace, and yet there was an air of melancholy about them that tugged at his heart. The sight should scare him, but it didn’t. Aurelios felt rather calm considering everything that was happening around him and how unfamiliar it felt. Certainly, this should make him feel more anxious, shouldn’t it? Aurelius turned his gaze toward the spirits around him, noticing a child in their midst, their eyes wide with fear and longing, surrounded by an aura of sorrow. Instinctively, his gentle nature took over, and he approached the child, his footsteps silent on the ground that felt strangely insubstantial. "Hello there," Aurelius said softly, his voice carrying a soothing melody that had comforted many during his time alive. "Are you lost, little one?" The child looked up at him, their eyes welling with tears. Their voice trembled as they spoke, recounting their confusion and the yearning for the parents they had been torn away from. Aurelius knelt beside the child, his heart aching for their pain. Gently, he placed a hand on their shoulder, offering a reassuring smile. "You are not alone," he said, his voice carrying the warmth of empathy. "We may be in a place unfamiliar, but we are together.

11:45 PM

Let’s see if we can’t find your parents around here somewhere.”, he spoke, a gentle smile on his lips, as he tousled the young boy's hair, standing up to look around. Slowly it dawned upon him that this may not be a place that he was very familiar with. Or at least not personally, had he told many stories and legends about the Underworld before and should therefore be a lot more familiar with its description. Certainly they wouldn’t find the boy's parents here, unless they had passed on as well. But if they had, they wouldn’t just leave their precious child behind, even amidst this confusion, upon waking up in a strange and unfamiliar place. But what else was he supposed to do? How should he calm the small child, without frightening him further? @Inkwell

In the beginning, there was silence. Darkness, a pure pitch black sight that everyone would only assume is the void of all life. Empty, lacking, silent yet defeaning at the same time. Many believe that there was more to death, a large group of people believe that this was it. Though- in this instance, many of them would be proven to be wrong. In the blink of an eye, everything happened. Colours never seen before, emotions never experienced, words never invented nor used, languages lost and never found. All and nothing at the same time, an overwhelming explosion that no one can explain alone. Was this the feeling of dying, or was the journey arriving to one's own belief of the afterlife? Who knows, though a few minutes would pass and everything then settles. Guillermo Cali Alonso, the adorned kind. Newly arriving at the point of no return, the man would find himself confused- as to all spirits that wakes up from the deep slumber of death. Trying to focus his gaze, Cali would then immediately stand up. Looking around his surroundings to see spectral figures, spirits and all kinds of magical wonders. He didn't know where he was, but something within him had a hunch. A part of knowledge that he's slowly starting to settle with. His initial anxiety slowly mourning down into a stringed path of acceptance, Cali would sigh and lower his gaze in the slightest bit. Lips pursing and an exhale omitting through his nose right after, the poet's eyes would return back to the familiar, melancholy. He had it coming, he knew it was coming, though a part of him still wished it wasn't. There's nothing changing that now. Looking around, he'd soon see another man with a crying child to his left, a few meters away from him. Well, if there was one thing that the man knew from the time that he was alive, was to always trust that human instinct of helping. Especially to those who are in need, what else could that be than a distressed child with what he assumes to be his father? .

2:27 AM

Slowly pacing himself towards the other man, he would pause infront of Aurelios. Raising his arm and giving the tiniest wave, it was moreso a small opening of the palms rather than a side to side motion really; and you could really see the hesitation within the initial greeting. A stutter in his voice was heard upon the first word muttered through. "H-hey". A voice that was soothing like warm butter, with the comfort of pine and a timbre of wood. Cali's eyes were as compassionate as the tone that he had. "Is everything alright? He's crying rather loudly, I assume you're the father?" Cali asks, walking closer to gently brush the child's hair. In an attempt to calm him down.

2:28 AM

. @SirFüncelot

Talking to the little boy seemed to calm him down a bit further, turning his tears into quiet sobs, as they went around, passing between people in search of his parents or someone he would recognize. Holding tight to Aurelios hand, he stayed practically glued to his leg, not moving away a single inch from his side, apparently still scared to lose another person and be all on his own again. Aurelios wasn’t too sure if they would truly find someone the child would recognize, but as he saw someone move towards the two of them, a bright and excited smile spread on his lips. He pointed towards the man to show the child that apparently someone was coming to get him, but as the other finally stood in front of them, the small boy moved behind his leg, seemingly not recognizing him, which became clear to him too as the other referred to him as his father. He laughed slightly, extending his hand for a formal greeting. “I’m afraid I’m not this little one's father. We are currently looking around to see if we can find his parents, aren’t we?”, Aurelios looked down at the child, nudging him forward a bit to accept the tousling of his hair a little bit better. “I take it you aren’t this boy's parent either then…”, he sounded a little bit defeated, but giving up just wasn’t his thing to do. He quickly perked up again to keep on talking. “But where are my manners? Aurelios Nikandros, but Aurelios is just fine. It’s a pleasure to meet you!”, he spoke happily, with another wide smile on his lips as he shook the other man’s hand, clasping it tightly with both of his. “You didn’t happen to stumble upon someone looking for a child, did you?” @Inkwell

Hearing Aurelios' response to his string of questions made him slowly start to realize the bigger picture. If he was here due to unfortunate circumstances, and this child was present in the same location as he without the embrace of their parents. Ah. A shame, really. He didn't know what to think of it, though death doesn't discriminate. That's one thing that he knows at least, it'll never be picky on who it chooses. Exhibit A, the child. Exhibit B, him. Gently picking up the child, he would slowly soothe the sobs. Brushing their hair and making them rest on their shoulder in order to comfort him. "It's alright... I'm here, we're both here". Cali whispers out, looking back at Aurelios with the gentlest smile. Almost peaceful, something that one would welcome everyday first thing in the morning when the sunrise arrives. His eyes were mesmering, his hair was magnificient, he was almost too fitting to be a spirit in the afterlife. "It's a pleasure to meet you too Aurelios, I'm Guillermo Cali Alonso. Cali is fine really, and no- I just... "woke up", so you'd say. In the midst of me walking and finding both of you, I haven't seen any of the like... I take it you found no luck either hm?" The man asks, staring directly into Aurelios' eyes with the hints of grief and sadness. Implying the poor fate that this child had to face. Trying to figure out a way to say what he wanted whilst not making it so obvious to the child, Cali figured out a way to speak out his mind. "Maybe if we wait for the boat to bring us down the river, we can find their parents waiting in the river sides". The poet mentions out, a stinging string in his heart threading through, knowing what's at the end of charon's trip on the river Styx.

12:05 AM

@SirFüncelot

The other seemed to be a natural, soothing the remainder of the child’s cries in mere seconds, after picking them up and stroking their hair. It was a rather endearing sight, and Aurelios couldn’t help but wonder if the man in front of him had left behind children of his own. He certainly seemed to know how to handle them, but just thinking about this made a slight sadness rise within him, remembering who he could have possibly left behind. Gladly, he had no spouse or children of his own, but at least a few grieving friends… Oh, how he wanted to return and tell them not to worry. That death wasn’t something one had to fear, but embrace. “What a fascinating name!”, he remarked with a chuckle, never having heard anything akin to it. Cali… It had a nice ring to it. Surely he came from somewhere else, far off, and the possibility of them meeting each other in their mortal lives had been basically nonexistent. Aurelios was glad he still had gotten the chance to meet this kind man. He made the whole situation appear less scary, even a little bit enjoyable. Like he already knew what to do. “I like how it sounds. Your entire name, but Cali sounds particularly nice.”, Aurelios smiled at him, not able to let the topic drop. He certainly would remember it. Maybe it could be used for a song. Cali… A song about him could just turn out nice. There was just no way around it, but right now they had more urgent matters to attend to. After all, the child was still looking for their parents. “No, unfortunately, we haven’t found anyone who recognizes them. But I’m sure we will, won’t we?”, he sounded confident, as he turned back towards the child, patting their head and receiving a toothy smile as well as a strong nod in return. They just had to stay positive, and what Cali suggested sounded like a very good idea. Someone had to know the child. Right?

12:28 AM

But what if not? Aurelios didn’t want to think about that, but what if it was the case… Could he take care of a child? He certainly wouldn’t have to worry about them dying, but… Maybe they could look for someone more suitable than a graying old man. “Little one, do you have a coin? Can you look in your pockets? It should look a little bit like this.”, Aurelios added, pulling a small silver coin from his own pocket, and showing it to them. Surely all three of them had received their payment for the ferryman. How else were they supposed to pass? As long as someone buried them accordingly, they should have gotten one, and if the child’s parents were truly still alive, they hopefully had made sure to bury them with at least one coin. As for Cali… He didn’t worry too much. He seemed like a nice man, maybe even a father. Surely he would have gotten something to pay for Charon’s task too. @Inkwell

An experienced warm hand in order to soothe those who are distressed. Calming, endearing, a presence that brings a gentle harmony to those who were distressed muses and verses. Cali was used to such notions. Continuing to soothe the kid down, the assumed poet would then proceed on to listening what Aurelios had to say. Curious about the sudden enthusiasm with his given birthname. Though, not like he minded it at all, no. There was a significant tint of red when Aurelios started complimenting him, a sheepish smile present that only showed his bright teeth. Accompanying Cali's beautiful locks and brown freckled skin, it was almost overwhelming. Though the man was a charmer himself, replying to Aurelios' appraises in no time. "Hey don't remove credit from your own name Aurelios. Yours is just, if not, more colourful than mine. Aurelios Nikandros... It has a nice rhyme to it, no?" The man asks rhetorically, chuckling softly as he would take a step closer to the other male. A natural connection forming between the two. Aurelios, what a blessing to be named such an alias. He loved how it sounded, and how it paired with his surname. Same amount of syllables, same rhythm and rhyme. An entendre that he wishes he could only bask upon more. "Not to mention it suits your features a lot. My if anything I haven't seen a bachelor as dashing as you sir Aurelios. I'm fillled with honour and humility that you'd humour me in such a way". He adds on, a charming laugh following right after to indicate his jests. By this point in time, the two were practically an inch apart from each other. The connection was nice! A good first impression, a well made initial conversation. Cali was already attached, he loved how this man talked. A muse in the midst, he hasn't had one in a long while. .

1:15 AM

Ah- but he shouldn't let that distract him from the more important matter at hand. The child with missing parents! Luckily with his methods, the kid seemed to calm down. Just resting on Cali's chest, listening to the two's conversation. Once being asked about a coin, the kid would then shake their head. Wondering what's it for, they would perk up. The silver coin intruiging the child as they check their pockets one more time to double check. Nothing. Cali saw that the child had nothing, disappointed at the circumstances of how the child died. Either a disaster, or a distraught from the parents due to poverty or incompetency. Whatever it was, the poet empathized with the child. "..." Sighing softly, the man then pulled out the silver coin that he had. Giving it to the child and laying a small kiss on its forehead. "Keep this close to you okay? Protect it for me, you can do that right? You're a brave kid". He says, reassuring the child and tickling their stomach to make them laugh. Solemnly laughing themselves. Soon looking back at Aurelios, he would bring out a sad smile. Shrugging in shame as he then passes on the child to the other old man. By this time, the Ferry was already about to arrive. "...I'll find a way". He whispers out, patting the other's shoulder and holding it firmly. His hand warm and soft, comforting to the touch. "it was nice meeting you... remember me, alright?"

1:16 AM

@SirFüncelot

Cali was quite the charmer and smooth-talker. He had a way with words that Aurelios couldn’t quite comprehend. It made him want to listen to him for longer, no matter what he talked about. His voice sounded nice… Especially if he showered him with compliments like this. It made him blush a little bit and laugh nervously. He wasn’t quite used to this, but he might if the other continued on like this. Surely Cali only did so to return the favor, but for now Aurelios ignored that fact and just enjoyed it, wishing for this to not stop any time soon. “One could think you’re flirting with me.”, he added with a slight laugh, indicating that this was just meant as a joke because, truly, that just wasn’t possible. Surely he already had someone; even if they didn’t share Cali’s unfortunate fate yet, they would probably follow him here sooner or later, and Aurelios certainly wouldn’t want to get in the way of that. Just having a good friend in these times was good enough, and he hoped Cali would stick around and not wander off at some point. He made all these uncertainties a little bit easier to bear… Aurelios pulled away as he realized how close they had gotten, his blush only getting deeper as he turned away slightly, rubbing his neck. All it took for him to become a blushing mess was one handsome man… By the gods, was he young again and slowly turning into a lovesick idiot, or did dying just mess up his mind? He hadn’t been like this before, but maybe dying did this to one? Making him remember what he had missed out on during his time alive. But now it was too late for that. Why should he pursue someone now that he was already dead? It just made no sense. Glad that the search for the child’s coin broke the awkwardness between them both, he watched in shock as they didn’t manage to find a coin in their pockets. A rather sad fade...

8:22 PM

But surely he couldn’t leave them here like this. Yes, there had to be a payment, but they were just a child. Charon would have mercy on them if they just told them what happened, right? He was on the verge of sharing his thoughts and ideas, wanting to know if Cali had something to offer, but the other man was already handing out his own coin to the child, making Aurelios gasp in shock at his words. His eyes wide, he tried to understand what was happening, only really snapping back to reality as he felt the warm hand on his shoulder. He hadn’t even realized how cold it was here until this moment, and couldn’t help but want to embrace Cali’s warmth. They had known each other for maybe an hour or two at this point, but Aurelios already felt close to him. Closer to many of the other people he had met during his mortal life. Holding the child in one arm, he grasped Cali’s hand with the other, holding onto him, not intending to let him go. “You can have my coin!”, he proclaimed, not convinced that he would find a way to cross the river otherwise. It wasn’t exactly what he wanted, because he wanted them to stay together, but someone had to stay with the child. And Aurelios felt a lot better knowing Cali was already on the other side, where he could find him, than having to wait for him to maybe find another way across the river. He just had to find someone rich with more than one coin. Surely that couldn’t be that hard. After all, there were many rich people. They probably got buried with a fortune to keep down here. “Or… Or we talk to Charon. Explain the situation and find another way to cross together!”, Aurelios added, desperately watching the other, holding onto Cali’s hand as if his life depended on it. Why was he already this attached to the man? It… Maybe… Maybe this situation was a bit scary.

8:22 PM

Not just for the child, but for him too. Even if he tried to pretend otherwise, he may be a little bit scared. Having Cali around helped a lot with that. He seemed so sure of himself, so confident and reliant, like a warm rock in the midst of crashing waves. “I… I don’t want to go on alone…”, he finally whispered after a pause, lowering his gaze. Who knew what was at the other end of the river? According to many myths and legends, it was supposed to be a nice place, but what if it wasn’t? “I know we need to find the child’s parents, but… It’s not as if they could just leave. We will find them eventually, even if we wait a little bit longer…”, slowly Aurelios raised his head again, looking the other in the eyes, while a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth again. “And two…”, he looked at the child in his arms, “three people can procure a coin much faster, don’t you think?" @Inkwell

The poor man heard Aurelios' mention of a possible flirt, raising his brow and teasing the other male with a "And what if I am?". A rhetorical question that was said by our little devil. He was hysterical really, an impulse, a spark... a fool. Youth reflecting over his eyes once again, as if he was a teenager that was teasing with the notion of love. Something that he had lost long ago, with someone that he had long forgotten. Prioritizing more important and urgent things in life, the green of jade had already worn out the redness of romance. He wouldn't know how it felt anymore. Especially now that he has passed. Though skipping to the dilemma at hand, Cali would watch the bard offer his own silver coin to him. His eyes sparking an obvious point of concern and worry. "I-I can't accept this Aurelios..!" He exclaims, although voice still gentle. Raising his hands as an act of refusal, the last thing he wanted was for someone that he already had a good first impression with to sacrifice something that he rightfully owned. Besides, they just met. It felt so different though, he didn't know what to feel about it. Was it really death or did Cali experienced being reborn? Was this his reincarnation, lest he looked the same, detest the thought of it being that way. Another chance mayhaps, or a place of finality and peace? Maybe it's something that he can finally work his way towards. Alas, it's not that easy. He wanted to be with Aurelios, he really did. But a child's more important than an old man that has passed. .

11:18 PM

A suggestion was raised though, and his ears perked up in the suggestion. "Charon? Is charon really that merciful? I'm sure we could try but..." He lets out a soft sigh, rubbing his nape in uncertainty. Haggling has been something he's done before. But asking for consideration from gods? It sounds hard already, let alone actually attempting to do it. Then he felt the shiver down his spine, due to the whisper of an old bard. Biting his lower lip, he'd look up to Aurelios with his eyes. Lingering feelings of anxiety and wariness present. Though as he saw the other's face, desperate and in need of a companion. Cali lowered his eyes a bit, thinking to himself. Life was already hard fighting alone, what comes after? Maybe there was a way. Staring right back into the other male's eyes, Cali would furrow his brows and nod in agreement with Aurelios' proposal. "...Yeah. Yeah maybe we can convince someone to give us an extra coin, or- or you know! Ask Charon for an exception. Something... cause- well". The man sighs, returning his gentle hand ontop of the other's shoulder. "I don't want to go alone either".

11:18 PM

@SirFüncelot

Someone possibly flirting with him… Certainly that was something new, and Aurelios wasn’t quite sure how to react should it continue. Would it be alright if he flirted back? How did one even do that? Maybe this was just how Cali was… Always nice and cheerful, just teasing him, and he was thinking too much into this. He shouldn’t think about it, just forget it even happened. Surely it wouldn’t come up again. Not when they had more pressing matters at hand. “Of course you can! You just gave your own coin away. Why shouldn’t I be allowed to do the same with my own?”, Aurelios argued back, extending his hand that held onto the little silver coin, to give it to Cali. He wasn’t quite able to look at him demanding or stern, but he tried his best, just not someone for any more serious expression. Aurelios loved to make people smile and laugh, all of this was already a bit too heavy for his own taste… He just wanted everyone to be happy and content, receiving a chance to peacefully pass on. Who even didn’t give their child a proper burial? As much as he wanted to agree, that Charon was a merciful being, the stories he’s been told, spoke a different story, of an old, gaunt man no one had managed to deceit yet. He was adamant on the payment, believed to let souls without a proper burial wait on the shores for an eternity. Still… Aurelios wanted to believe that they would find a way. Maybe not by persuading the ferryman, but maybe due to some other lucky coincidence, so the smile on his lips didn’t waver. He wanted to stay optimistic. They would be able to think of something that would help them! He was sure of it! “It’s agreed upon then. We’ll get you another coin, and progress together.”, his smile widened, feeling the gentle warmth once again radiate through his body from the spot on his shoulder where Cali touched him. It certainly felt nice… But they were forgetting something… “What do we do with the child? Should we send him on his own?

1:23 AM

Or do you want to stick around a bit longer, little on?”, the last question was directed at the child in his arms, ruffling through their hair lightly, as Aurelios waited for a response from them and Cali to settle this. Maybe with a child they would be able to warm people’s hearts. If not Charon’s then at least those of their fellow mortals. They probably were a lot more willing to part with a precious coin, if it were for the sake of a child and not one strange old man. Also… Did this still count as trying to deceit Charon? Or would at least that be possible? Borrowing a coin? What even needed the ferryman those for? There didn’t seem to be any shops around here that would take those coins as payment, and even in other parts of the Underworld it just made no sense to have something like that. So why? “What do you think Charon does with the coins? They are supposed to collect them, right? But what happens after? Do they keep them? Do they get thrown out? Maybe we can find one of those…”, Aurelios thought out loud, looking around him, already trying to determine if maybe a wealthy looking spirit was anywhere near, so they could approach them. So far he had no luck, stuck with overthinking his own strange thoughts, while worrying over a man he had just met. The day couldn’t get any stranger could it? At least death wasn’t as boring as some claimed. A lot more exciting than his mortal life before. (edited)

1:23 AM

@Inkwell (edited)

He did present a good point, something that Cali wasn't all that sure himself either. What are the coins about anyways? What are they for, and who takes advantage of such income. In what economy? One could only wonder. Which would promptly perk up the poet's curiosity. Looking around, he would then decide to find a way to convince another spirit to give their coins to him. "You stay here..." He whispers out to the other male, walking closer to him and patting his shoulder again. Smiling softly and giving the other a wink, something casual, flirtatious and fun. A lighthearted gesture that only amplified Cali's handsome features tenfold. God the man was such a natural charmer, where did it come from? How does he use it, and how can he imply that he doesn't have a significant other. Is it even true? He was almost a god amongst men himself, though- ever so humble. He never thought of himself as such. Walking around the field, the man would soon another indiviual that seemed to be at wealth. Aurelios couldn't hear what Cali was saying, only a mere distant echo of his voice that read to the bard as gibberish. The other would soon see Cali point at them, more specifically at the child before clasping his hands together. Seemingly pleading to the rich man to let the now... "orphaned" kid to cross the river styx. It's only right and fair, who wouldn't pity a child that didn't get a proper burial? .

3:48 AM

What seemed to be an hour of convincing, Cali would then give the wealthy man a tight hug. Practically shedding a tear as he would then walk back to Aurelios and the child that they have found. Wiping the tears off of his face to reveal a bright smile. "I managed to convince him to give us one of his coins". "Isn't that neat~!" He says, a little melody coming out at the utter of the last word. Sitting right next to the child and showing the silver coin that he got. "Now all of us have a silver coin little one! We can cross the scary river and live happily ever after". Cali celebrates, ruffling the kid's hair and hugging him tight. Happy to see the child happy about it himself. It wasn't much, but he's at least joyous to help another soul in need. Even if it's past the point of no return. Besides, who said it's too late to continue being a kind person? Cali never believed in the horizon line anyways. "Now we just have to wait for Charon".

3:48 AM

@SirFüncelot

All the touching, flirting, and winking made Aurelios feel all sorts of things. Mostly a strange fluttering sensation in his stomach paired with a desire to return all those gentle touches. Gods… His brain was slowly turning to mush, wasn’t it? He had to focus, not contemplate whether this man was truly interested in him or just more touchy in general. It could also be a cultural difference… Aurelios hadn’t even thought about that. He shouldn’t get his hopes that high. Surely there had to be a more logical explanation for this than this god of a man being interested in him specifically. “Take care…”, he mumbled back, the other already long gone, walking towards a finely dressed man. He was still able to see him, yet for the first time since arriving here, he realized how many people were standing around them. All of them were flooding towards the river's edge, trying to get onto the boat that would soon arrive. Aurelios had never realized how many people died every day, but with wars and famines going on, it seemed reasonable. Still… Even though he was standing amidst them, he felt lonely, surrounded by a sea of strangers, clutching a child to his chest he didn’t know either, while watching a man barter for a silver coin, pretending he was the only one keeping him afloat, despite knowing him for just a split second. His life certainly had become strange… Aurelios watched the show Cali put on, rather impressed by his acting talents. It would make sense if he’d been an actor in the theater. With his good looks, his voice, his talent… Certainly that had to have been his occupation, right? He would have to ask him later, but first, the other returned, pulling Aurelios entire attention back to him as Cali smiled. He couldn’t help but smile back. It was just too contagious. Especially after he raised the coin into the air. “I didn’t know we were in the hands of a professional actor.”, Aurelios chuckled, putting the child down,

7:27 PM

so it could look at the silver coin in Cali’s hands better. “You must have been well-known with that talent of yours. I would have loved to see you in a play.”, he swooned with excitement. He had written a few pieces himself, but those seemed very much wasted on talents like Cali’s. It was kind of sad, that they had probably been hundreds of miles apart… Even if he had wanted to, he would have never been able to encounter the other or see his display in a theater… “I guess with that, the hard part is over… Now follows the scary part.”, Aurelios shuddered slightly, at the thought of them trying to trick Charon. Hopefully, it would end well for them. Just imagining them sinking to the bottom of the river Styx… Slowly dying a painful death… Poisoned and drowned… Maybe waiting with the child at the river bank would have been a better solution, but it was a little bit too late for that now, wasn’t it? After all, Cali had gone through the trouble of procuring a coin for them already. They shouldn’t let that go to waste, right? “I hope you have more of that talent hidden, because we are probably going to need it to persuade Charon too.”, Aurelios sighed, feeling a little bit uneasy, but still forcing himself to smile to not worry the child any more now that it seemed finally happy. He wasn’t sure why he even had suggested this in the first place, but at least no boat was in sight yet, so maybe they would have a little bit of time to either come up with a plan or just use the time wisely and relax. Maybe get to know each other a little bit better, share a few stories… Aurelios just wanted to enjoy the time together a little bit longer. “Let’s sit on the rock over there while we wait. I’m not sure how frequently Charon comes and goes. It could be days until he arrives.” @Inkwell

An actor? Aurelios assumes he's an actor? Cali would be starstruck at that initial mention. Laughing in disbelief as he would sit right down besides Aurelios. For a man as wise, somber and grounding as the other, Cali was surprised to hear such an ambitious feat. Though, in a way, he wasn't really that wrong now was he? Deceiving other people for the sake of taking care of children in need. The man was all too familiar with it, ever since his initial dream was run down to ruins. Only now did he realized what his life has become. Omitting a sad smile from the curly haired man as he would stare into the nothingness before him. "An actor?" Cali asks rhetorically, a laughter just as sarcastic as the question. "I guess you can say that. Though that isn't really my career, nor is it the job that I wanted when I was a youngin like this lil guy over here". The man adds more, pinching the kid's cheeks gently to tease him. Causing the young one to laugh softly. "I'm sure Charon won't notice, and even if he did. He'll understand what we did for the kid... I hope". Cali laughs nervously, brushing the child's hair in order to soothe both him and the kid. Trying to change the conversation topic. .

5:44 PM

Though the mention of Actor still lingered in his mind. Absentmindedly mentioning out the whisper of "Actor... huh, I never thought of it that way". Cali continues to speak out his inner monologue. "Though maybe you could change that..." A silence lingers "What is your occupation anyways sir Aurelios? I assume you're of the arts yourself since your train of thought was immeidately something of the likes for me". The ex poet genuinely asks, looking back at the other man as that soft smile would appear once again. Something about Aurelios' gentle nature, a down-to-earth approach with life made him so drawn with the other man. His soft features, the way that he rationalizes everything with pure thought and intellect. It removed some of Cali's impulsiveness, escapes him from dangerous situations. It comforts him that someone was at least here to take a risk with him, yet made everything sensible at the same time.

5:47 PM

. Something about their connection, he didn't really want to let go of it. So- he wasn't all that worried about Charon potentially taking long. "Not that I mind that, I've found the best mate to spend my time with! You're wonderful company, and this little nubber right here is just the right type of guy to spend a grand adventure with! Isn't it now huh kid, what's your name?" Cali finally asks the child, looking up at Aurelios and back at the young one before continuing to talk. "We could just comfort each other and play games here, relax and sleep in until Charon arrives. I'm sure we'll have a swell time. Especially with you dear Aurelios, I already feel alive in of itself..." He adds on, words ever so charming. Eyes locked in the other former writer, his chest gently beating faster and faster. Come on now Cali, it can't be this fast...

5:47 PM

@SirFüncelot

No actor, then… Aurelios couldn’t help but frown a little. He had been so sure of himself that that had to be the other’s occupation. But at least he seemed to be close? That’s what he got from the answer he received, which, to be honest, was rather vague and didn’t help him narrow down the possibilities much. Cali seemed more mysterious than he had thought at first, but it had its charm, and if anything, it just made him want to try harder to tickle this particular information out of him. “If not an actor, but something similar…”, he thought out loud, sitting down next to Cali on the stones with the child on his lap. Maybe he had moved a little bit too close to the other man, feeling his presence and warmth, but Aurelios didn’t regret it. He enjoyed it. A lot, even. It made him feel comfortable and welcome, like this was a nice place after all. Or at least Cali made it seem like a much nicer place. “Are you an author, then? Or a playwright?”, he questioned further, turning to face the other man and looking at him intently to get him to finally answer truthfully and not just let him guess blindly. Hoping that Charon would show mercy… It was a nice thought, but if he were honest, he didn’t want to think about what could possibly be or not be right now. Aurelios wanted to enjoy the moment and not worry about the child or Cali right now. Not when it was rather nice right here and now. Just sitting and talking and watching each other, as well as the people that moved past them. Picking up on Cali’s whispers, as well as his question that followed a bit later, made Aurelios chuckle slightly. “How could I possibly change something about that? I can’t make you an actor, even if you seem to have talent for it. I don’t even write plays. I write poems and songs, but I fear they aren’t well known. You probably haven’t heard of them.”, his chuckle turned into something a little bit more nervous as he rubbed the back of his neck, blushing slightly,

12:47 AM

and hoping that would be enough to sate Cali’s curiosity for now. The way he looked at him… Gentle and kind… Making him feel all sorts of things, like a fluttering in his chest, only leading to his blush intensifying. Aurelios had to avert his gaze because otherwise he wouldn’t be able to take this any longer, mumbling his next response while he moved his leg up and down to bop the child on his lap a little bit to make them laugh and squeal. “I wouldn’t call this a grand adventure… But… I have to approve… You are the best company I’ve had in a long time…” Bright-eyed and with a wide, toothy smile, the child turned to face Cali, trying to climb from Aurelios’ lap into his. It took a little bit of time, but satisfied with where they were sitting now, they turned to look up at him and answer his question. “Al-Ale-Alexandros!”, he proclaimed after a slight struggle pronouncing his own name, seemingly very satisfied with how he’d managed that. Aurelios couldn’t help but shake his head a little bit at the rather cute display right next to him, unable to tear his eyes away, which turned into a mistake rather soon as Cali started to sweet talk him once again. Why did this man have such a way with words? He could listen to him talk the entire day without growing tired of it. “Stop… You are praising me too much…”, his attempt to get him to stop was rather weak because Aurelios didn’t really want that to happen. He enjoyed hearing these things that left Cali’s lips so effortlessly. They made him feel nice, and warm, and fuzzy. But also, like he needed to return something, give something equally nice back to him. But what? He was a man of words, and yet he wasn’t able to find the right ones? Aurelios paused, thinking about what he could possibly answer to all of this. “I already have a great time. We don’t have to change anything. Just sitting and talking with you is nice.”

12:47 AM

Certainly it wasn’t as grand as Cali’s display had been, but it brought across what he wanted to imply. Even if it was rather bad. His words on paper were a lot better than the ones he just spoke out loud. But Aurelios couldn’t spend the next two hours overthinking that. It would just mean he’d lose precious time he could be spending with Cali instead. Just talking and laughing… Nothing would make him feel happier. @Inkwell

Cali was a bit surprised with how much Aurelios was asking in regards to his life during his time when he was still a living soul. Nonetheless, he couldn't blame the male in actuality. One could only be ever so curious, but the flattery did humor him a bit. Especially with how much the other was pestering him about him. He'll play along with it though, despite how shameful he was with his life. Maybe death was the better option, if he thought about it. Nonetheless, he wasn't sure how to tell it. He didn't know what to say, the poet was on a standstill. There he was, with a man so impressive, with an individual so somber and giving him the light of day. He wanted to impress him, but he wanted to be honest. In the end, Cali decided to play along. Making a compromise, something that satisfies both him and Aurelios. Tell only half the story, only half of what was true. Hide what his life used to be, and hope that enough was told to humor the other male. "Well, I suppose you could know. I studied in Edith's University of The Prodigious Poets. I don't know if you're familiar of it. But I've heard it's famous all around the world... Not to brag about it or anything". He says, albeit a bit embarassed with what he said as a shy smile and a rub of the nape occured right after the statement. "But either way! A songwriter, are we~?" He then deflects the converation, returning back to his ever so charming voice that just hooked on any mortal's heart strings. Cooing Aurelios as his eyes would sparkle and light up. One of his eyebrows raising in intrigue to express his peaque of interest. .

1:00 AM

"Maybe you can sing a song for me one day, bard". Cali continues on with wooing the other male. His warm hand then playfully scratching the other's chin, where his beard was before pulling away with a soft smile. Redirecting himself to Alexandros to make him settle inbetween his legs and lay against his torso. "I'm sure Alexandros and I here would love to hear your wonderful voice. Isn't that right?" "My... what a wonderful name for such a brave little boy. Maybe you could even write a song about our little adventurer right here!" He exclaims, tickling the child's stomach in order to make him laugh and have fun. My- Cali seemed a natural at handling children. Smiling brightly as he would then hover his hand in the air. Making up the imaginary tale. "Alexandros the Great, the brave young boy who travelled through the river styx alongside his two..." "His two..." Cali then went into a halt. Not really knowing what to imply with him and Aurelios. So, with a soft smile, he then turns his gaze to the other. Silently asking for him to finish off the title.

1:00 AM

@SirFüncelot

Cali knew what to say to flatter him, make his heart beat incredibly fast, as if it wanted to spring out of his chest. And there was nothing Aurelios could do to prevent that. Stuck with enjoying his words and gestures, feeling the touch of his warm hand again, this time even closer, at his chin. It made him want to purr and lean into the touch, craving even more of the warmth that was offered to him in this cold place. Cali radiated as much as the sun itself, and despite knowing that whoever got close to something that burned this brightly would get burned themselves in the end, he couldn’t help it. He may be a fool because of that, but at least for now, he wanted to be close to the other man. Who knew how long he would get a chance to do so? “Of course, did I hear about it!”, Aurelios answered with obvious excitement in his voice. His eyes beamed as he turned to face the man again. “I always wanted to go and visit it, but it was so far off. I never managed to.”, his head sank a little bit, remembering that he wouldn’t get an opportunity to go there now. Surely life was too short to keep pushing such important wishes away. He should have fulfilled that dream himself, but now it was too late. At least he got to meet Cali, who surely could tell him a few things about it. But he would ask about that later. Right now, he was too invested in getting to know each other a little bit better. “I… I would love to…”, a dark blush spread across his cheeks, showing how nervous he was. Not that his singing was bad or anything, but getting directly asked by someone like him… It made his stomach flutter slightly. What would he even sing for him? Aurelios already started to overthink it; sitting close to Cali didn’t really help with that. If anything, it only made him more anxious, fidgeting slightly with his hands in front of his chest before clasping them tightly together. “I guess I would also need an instrument…

10:36 PM

If you don’t just want to hear me sing…”, Aurelios added, not coming any further as he got interrupted by Alexandros happy laughter and approval of hearing him sing. It didn’t help him calm his nerves, even though the child's expression was utterly adorable and made him smile too. He would remember that for later. Maybe there would be a moment for him to follow through with their request. With fondness in his eyes, Aurelios watched the two interact, having fun, laughing, and starting their heroic tale. It would certainly need some fine-tuning, but it wasn’t such a bad idea. He could certainly work with that somehow. Maybe if he had the time he would think about it a little harder, but right now he just wanted to join in the fun, not losing too much time over figuring out certain rhymes or pauses a song would require. “Alongside his two brave companions. One a silver-tongued charmer, using wise words to make the spirits join the young hero's task and help him cross the treacherous river that presented itself before them. The other…”, Aurelios left this part open just like Cali had done before, looking over to the other man to return the favor and maybe give a short description of him as well. He felt like he could have done better, but to describe Cali… He needed more than just a few lines, despite how little he knew about him. Just his beauty needed its own song, and even then it wouldn’t do him justice. His witty yet charming personality… Aurelios didn’t even know if he would be able to describe it. None of the words he knew seemed fitting, no matter how hard he tried. Cali… He was just… Cali… Nothing he could ever write or sing would come close to his presence. Maybe he shouldn’t even try… @Inkwell

Ah yes, Edith's University. Who would't know that place? Everyone adored the academy, individuals from all around the world who only yearned and dreamt about. A lot could kill just to get the opportunity just to study a DAY in such a prestigious school. Millions of students apply, only a handful manage to graduate. With almost all of them succeeding in being the most popular and well known individuals in the industry. With how much these poets are well regarded in the world, it only makes sense! Cali, however, resented the place. It reminds him of everything that he had a distain for. What happened to his mother, what happened to him. And what came to be after the unfortunate events of the fallout that was his family... Not to mention, the closest friend that he had there. Someone that he knew long ago, gone. The man had gained so much from the academy. Yet failed and lost the same amount consecutively after. It was a shame, and if Aurelios had another passing moment to think. He'd wonder why Cali's name wasn't everywhere despite being from the academy. The man could only hope Aurelios would never ask. Either way, he didn't fester himself with that information any longer. Soon revealing a small lute that he brought with him. Smiling brightly and playing a short pleasant tune to charm Aurelios even more. "Perfect that I know how to play one then~?" The poet asks, leaning into the old man and laughing brightly. Laying his head against the other's shoulder. Sighing softly and patting the other male's thigh, rubbing it gently to cherish the moment even more. .

6:00 AM

"The other a well-grounded, wise writer. Knowing all the answers, keeping everything at ease and settled. Someone that has a whisper loud enough to wash over a wave of tranquility to those who need it..." Cali describes the other male, falling silent just a bit before finally hinting at the one thing he wanted the other to say. "Two old men that could be considered to be- well, Alexandros' father figures... In a sense... doesn't that sound nice?" Yeah, doesn't that sound nice... Cali. Wishful thinking. Alexandros himself shouted out a cute 'Y-Yeah!'. Smiling brightly at the two men, the poet then sitting up brightly and staring into the other's eyes with eyes never wandering anywhere else. Waiting for the other man's answer before slowly but surely leaning into the other's presence. Lowering his lids as Cali then inched closer and closer, their breath breezing over Aurelios' lips. Their moustaches brushing over each other. Their lips mere centimeters apart. Cali's soft lips, one could only wonder what it felt. It seemed to be so electrifying, so tasty. A taste of heaven in of itself. He was so into the other eccentric man's tone, and Cali himself wanted so bad to kiss him. And this was it, their lips brushing over each other. Romance, love and- ding! ding! ding!

6:00 AM

@SirFüncelot '

Once again, Cali managed to take his breath away. Something as simple as a single touch to his thigh was enough to start a fire inside of him that he didn’t know existed there in the first place. To the other, it seemed not important; to Aurelios though… He wasn’t able to focus on anything else, just the hand that was resting on his thigh. Patting it gently as if it were the most normal thing in the world. He blushed, turning his face away slightly, not even paying attention to the instrument Cali pulled forth. Whatever he played sounded nice, but none of that seemed important right now. Why… Why did he have such a charming individual? A man that took his breath away with each word he spoke, making him gasp, blush, and feel like he was young once again. All the fluttering that was happening inside his chest… The twisting inside his stomach… It distracted him, but not enough to not hear the gentle and kind words Cali used to describe him. Aurelios’ eyes widened in surprise as he continued. Father… He never would have thought to get called that, but Alexandros seemed to be on board with it. Despite them only knowing each other for… For how long, exactly? Time seemed to flow strangely in this place. How long had they been waiting for, exactly? It felt like only a moment to him, but surely that couldn’t be true. Aurelios had enjoyed their closeness, Cali’s head resting on his shoulder as if there was no better place for it than there. He already missed it a moment after it was gone, longing and wishing to just pull the other back to where he obviously belonged, but he couldn’t get that far. Time seemed to halt as Cali’s handsome face moved into his field of view. Closer than ever before and only getting nearer. Their eyes met. The others dark ones seemingly asking for permission. Permission for what? Aurelios didn’t know, but he was too absorbed in the moment anyway. Following suit, closing his eyes,

10:42 PM

feeling the warm breath of the other man on his face, the slight tickle of his mustache. He could basically taste him on his lips already, determined to push closer, overcome the last few centimeters that kept them apart, until the ringing of a bell interrupted them. Startled, he pulled away, opening his eyes, catching a glimpse of Cali’s face, his handsome features, the long, dark lashes… They were about to kiss… His cheeks flushed, as he looked around, seeing the other spirits swarming towards the edge of the river. Apparently their ride had arrived… With a shy smile, he leaned in once again, glancing at Cali for a second, before he pressed a quick peck to his cheek. Pulling away with cheeks that only turned an even darker shade of red, as he quickly got up, helping Alexandros onto his legs as well. “It seems… Our waiting has come to an end. Come on. We don’t want to miss this.”, he ushered Cali along, pretending nothing had happened, despite his mind running haywire. Had he lost his mind? Kissing this man? They didn’t even know each other. When had he gotten this bold? His head was a mess, and Aurelios was rather thankful for the distraction Charon had brought upon them. Otherwise… He would surely turn insane. @Inkwell

What a damned shame, talk about the Fates messing with both of their heart strings. Cali was about to charm this old man with his lips in a different means other than words. An alternative usage of his saccharine tongue, so you'd interpret. Cali wanted it bad really, but hey- being pulled back at least made him snap back into reality. Having the revelation that he prooobably shouldn't kiss a guy that he just met. But hey- could you blame him? Not entirely, in a sense. Love easily ignites, though he was aware of another thing... Love just as easily burns out. Pulling back with a soft sigh, Cali would let out a defeated smile. Obviously disappointed that him and Aurelios didn't get to kiss. Though he would immediately be taken aback with the other man's bold moves. His eyes opening up and lighting in optimism as his mouth would fall just the slightest bit agape. Taking a few seconds for it to process, the poet would then clumsily stand up to chase after Aurelios and Alexandros. "H-Hey! Hold up you can't just do that to me-!" He says jokingly, a soft laugh following his rebuttal. Upon walking to Charon's boat, he would stand still for a bit. Looking at the god's features with awe. He was real, the Charon himself. The very one that took every spirit down to the gates of the underworld. To be judged, to be determined. He looked nothing like what people described him, but exactly what they meant. How were they so wrong yet so right at the same time? Cali was dumbfounded, and amazed all at the same time. He would look at Aurelios with a soft determined nod. Pursing his lips upwards before giving their coins to Charon. Hopping up and picking Alexandros up to assist him in boarding the boat, before eventually offering his hand to the writer. A soft smile on his face accompanied by a charming "my dear Aurelios~". With a curl with his tone at the end. Oh Guillermo, as playful as ever. .

2:17 AM

Giving a thanks to Charon, he'd bow to show more of his gratitude before swiftly leaving. Letting the god do his bidding with the other spirits before finding a place for them to stay within the boat. It has gotten significantly bigger than what they've described in the tales of the olden days. Have more people been dying recently? What's the supply and demand for this thing? Nonetheless, they'd sit at the very front. Away from where Charon was rowing. With Alexandros on his lap, Cali would place his other hand to the man besides him. Caressing his inner thigh as he would look infront of him with soft worry, though determined still he was. "..." SIlent as ever. "..." You think we could stay together?" The poet asks, looking at Aurelios with a smile growing bright. His hand slowly carressing the other's upper leg back and forth. The warmth of his palms overriding any other feeling Aurelios could ever feel during this moment. His fingers softly squeezing his thighs in anticipation with the answer. He might not mean it sometimes, but god this guy was a tease. "I'd love to, you know? Just you and I with Alexandros... it's not like we have anyone else".

2:17 AM

@SirFüncelot

Cali shouting after him made Aurelios just chuckle slightly. It didn’t seem angry, more disappointed or annoyed, but certainly not mad. Which seemed like a good sign to him. Maybe he hadn’t done the wrong thing, even if it hadn’t been a kiss on the lips. But maybe they should also take a little bit more time to get to know each other before they got to that point. Not as if it would matter. They were already dead, so what should happen to them? The worst that could happen was them realizing that they weren’t as well-fitting for each other as they had thought. But until then… What was stopping them from following their hearts? Pretending to be in love? Getting to enjoy a little bit of life in this dead place? It seemed nice. At least in Aurelios opinion, and he was more than willing to give this temptation a try. Following Cali’s lead, he let him deal with Charon, slightly intimidated by his visage, and making sure that Alexandros wouldn’t get a good look at him while they got on the ship. Gladly, he let the other man help Alexandros onto it, not expecting to receive the same treatment as a hand was extended towards him with a charming smile and sweet words that made the blush creep back onto his cheeks. How had he managed to get his hands on such a charming individual? Making him fear that Cali would just break his heart, because this was how he treated everyone remotely attractive, but something inside of him made him fight against this misconception, because truly, this didn’t seem like something he would do. He was too nice for something as hurtful as that. Giving Cali an embarrassed and blushing smile as he placed his hand in the other one’s, feeling the warmth beneath his fingers, he stepped onto the boat as well. His hand lingered in Cali’s, not wanting to let go of it yet, but as soon as they had found their seat, he reluctantly let go of it.

9:17 AM

Wanting to maybe intertwine their fingers instead, or maybe just hold onto it for a little bit longer because of how nice it had felt. As if both of their hands had just been made to hold onto each other. Aurelios didn’t have another explanation, why else should they fit that well together? As if they had been molded from the same piece of clay but gotten ripped apart some time in the past, meant to find each other and reunite again. He had never believed in those old stories, but Cali made him question the myths and legends. Surely, if it were him, he wouldn’t mind thinking about how they once may have been one, two sides of a coin, meant to find each other to become whole again. Cali made him want to believe in this tale, wish for it to become true for them. Even though it may already be too late, he wanted to experience a little bit of the happiness other people were allowed to experience during their mortal lives. That certainly couldn’t be asked for too much, could it? Sitting close to the other man again, he tried to distract himself by looking around, studying the black river in front of them as well as the other passengers, but he never came far. Gasping slightly as he felt the familiar warmth settle on his thigh. It had already been quite overwhelming to just have him close or for their hands to touch, but now his thigh? It seemed like Cali would want to make him overheat with his teasing.

9:17 AM

How was he supposed to deal with much more of this? It would just leave him wanting more, and that surely wasn’t a point they were at yet. Not after they hadn’t even kissed yet. Before he even answered, Aurelios own hand grabbed a hold of Cali’s wrist, preventing him from wandering even further up, worried what would happen if he did. This certainly wasn’t the right place for something like this. Not in the presence of all these people or a god. As desperate as he was for his touch, he couldn’t allow him everything. Not here and not right now. “That sounds nice…”, Aurelios finally responded, after lowering his head slightly to hide his still-red cheeks. Slowly, he moved Cali’s hand back down a little bit, letting it settle again a bit further down his thigh, near his knee, before letting go of it. “It’s not like we have anywhere else we could go. But I wouldn’t mind staying with you a little bit longer.”, he raised his head to smile at Cali before turning to Alexandros and flashing him a bright grin as well. “And with you as well, mighty little hero!”, he added, tousling the child's hair. “I would love to stay with the both of you, for as long as you’ll have me.”, Aurelios’ smile never left his lips, as he basically beamed at the man and child in front of him, as if today were the best day in his entire life. Which, to an extent, may be true. Or at least, he couldn’t remember a day he had felt as happy and excited as today. Flustered and embarrassed as well, but also so much more alive than ever. It certainly was a nice change of pace, and he didn’t mind getting to enjoy it for just a little bit longer. Even if it would be just a week or two, he tried to convince himself that it would be enough, even though he knew that he preferred them to spend an eternity together, but surely that wouldn’t be possible, would it? @Inkwell

The poet in the first place wasn't really thinking any different of the touch on the thigh. He simply just wanted to be close with Aurelios. Though upon seeing the man slowly drag out his hand away from the center mass, Cali would then immediately get the message. And realized how much he was implying with his warm touch. Laughing softly and leaving his face in a flush, the man would follow along the motion. Instead, decided to interlock his fingers with the other man. Keeping it close together and retaining his gaze upon the view before them. Waiting to hop off the boat with Alexandros on his outside lap. "And I'd like to stay with the both of you too... as long as you'll have me, sir Aurelios". He says, looking at the other man with a soft smile. His thumb carressing the back of the writer's hand. The warmth and the small static of electricity between the bond of two men making his spine shiver at the slightest bit. He sensed some sort of melancholy to this all. A sense of irony with feeling alive at the very moment when he wasn't anymore. What a world he's living in, Cali could only comprehend it halfway. Once they were past the river styx, the man would then hop off the boat. Carrying Alexandros with him and not letting go of the holding of hands between him and Aurelios. Assisting him down and settling all three of them on the ground. There they were, to the entrance of the underworld. Judgement hour was about to come and only now did Cali feel the unease and anxiety. The hand that was holding Aurelios' fiddling with the other male's fingers, trying to calm himself down. "Well, here we are... in a few minutes we should find ourselves where the fates aligned us to go henceforth". Cali states, looking at Aurelios with another soft smile. His teeth barely showing and his gaze lowering to admire Aurelios' lips. Tempted to kiss him again. But not here... not now. "How do we feel?" He asks the other two, turning to Alexandros and waiting for their answers.

10:01 PM

@SirFüncelot

Them holding hands… It was certainly not something he had expected or even thought he’d wanted, but here he was, a slight smile on his lips, as he returned the gesture, interlocking their fingers and enjoying the small touches that came with it. Not that he hadn’t liked the touches to his thigh, but those seemed more like something they should save for a few more private moments. If they would even have those around here… He wasn’t quite sure how the Underworld was organized. Would there be houses? Or just a big open space for them to stand on? Aurelios had a lot of questions regarding that but couldn’t quite focus his mind on it, Cali occupying most of his thoughts right now, making him unable to focus. Instead, his head dropped to the side, resting on the other man’s shoulder with a small sigh. He felt exhausted, despite being dead, but Cali seemed like the perfect place for recharging with the warmth and care he radiated. “There is no reason for the ‘sir’. Aurelios is just fine. I’m no nobleman or knight of some sort. I’m just me.”, he responded, his words a low mumble, while his other hand clasped around Cali’s as well, liking how warm and alive it felt. The ride was rather uneventful, and he wasn’t sure if he had dozed off for a moment because the next time Aurelios opened his eyes, they had already arrived, and Cali was pulling him onto his feet and out of the boat. Feeling still a little bit sleepy and disoriented, it took him a moment to register where they were. The judgment… He dreaded this.

11:00 PM

Not because of himself, but what if they were ripped apart? They may not know each other very well yet, but he still felt some sort of connection with the other man. Even if he wasn’t able to really describe it yet. Cali checking in helped, but he didn’t manage to let go of his hand. It gave him comfort and did feel rather nice. Not only calming him because of the judgment they were about to face, but also because of his own whirlwind of emotions caused by the man in front of him himself. Just his smile made him feel things, and the slightly downcast eyes… Resting on his lips… It didn’t get much better. Thankful for Alexandros' interruption, as he answered Cali’s question, he managed to finally pull free, giving the man the space he probably needed. “I was never on a boat!”, the child exclaimed, a wide smile on his lips, seemingly no longer frightened by the entire experience. “Where are we going next? Can we go again?”, Alexandros added, tugging at Cali’s shirt to get his attention, making Aurelios chuckle, who was still avoiding the question and coming clear about his current mood. “I’m… I’m fine…”, he mumbled, nearly inaudible, not liking what was about to come. If there just were a way for them to drag this out a little bit longer… Even just a moment would be enough… Maybe… @Inkwell

A soft laughter omits through Cali's gentle lips. Nodding in a response to Aurelios' small complaint in the honorific that he used for him. "My apologies, I'm just a bit used to calling everyone with such courteous titles. Besides, sir is a nice honorific to use on you. No~?" He teases a bit, elbowing the man before smiling brightly. Proud of the teasing feat that he presented before the dead writer. On the way towards other end of the river Styx, he allowed both Alexandros and Aurelios to lay on his body. Welcoming the comforting feeling as he would just bask himself in the affection that he was receiving. Besides, he's never had anything like this before. Something, someone, a feeling that wasn't rewarded to him all his life. At least in death he gets to be comforted. He then hears what the young kid had to say after hopping off the boat. Loving the enthusiasm that Alexandros had, Cali would smile and gently brush the kid's hair. Something about it reminded him of how he used to be when he was younger, optimistic, naive, innocent... Oh how fast have the days gone by. The poet then softly denies the young lad's request. "Unfortunately we can't, Alexandros. We're going somewhere else now. Are you ready for your next adventure brave hero?" He asks, looking up to the child that he was carrying to reassure him better. Flexing his arm in order to make Alexandros imitate him, a passing of strength, or whatever amount of fortitude Cali had left. His arm practically bulged through his top, hinting at his figure underneath all that cloth. .

11:48 PM

Once that was settled with, he'd let the child rest on his torso before addressing Aurelios' ill-hidden anxiety. Gripping his handheld touch a bit in order to catch his attention before giving a sad smile, mixed with an ounce of reassurance. "Hey... I know you aren't... It'll be fine, alright?" He rhetorically asks. Stepping nearer to Aurelios just so he can keep him safe around his grasp. Letting go of his hand and wrapping it around the bard's waist. Not long after, Charon would ring his bell again. Redirecting their attention to him as he would point at the gates of the underworld. Letting everyone know that the most important time of their life- death? was to come. There they were, King Minos, Aeacus, and Radamanthus. Cali in turn, would let out an audible gulp. Watching every other spirit walk up to them and form a line. Each and everyone being judged and sent to a different part of the underworld. All that the poet could ask for is that all three of them would be placed in Elysium. He at least knows that he's helped enough people for him to at least be qualified for it, and what bad can an innocent child do? Though there was one thing. Aurelios. Come to think of it, the poet never knew much about Aurelios' morals and what deeds he's done. Other than being a writer and a bard, he didn't really know anything else of the man. And here he was- wanting to kiss someone anonymous. Great bias, a wonderful hook to attach yourself with Cali. How is your unwavering judgement now? The best you can do is to trust the guy, do you love him? Do you love yourself enough. He can only hope for the best. That his intuition and heart was right. After all, too much will be lost for him to be wrong now.

11:48 PM

@SirFüncelot

Getting suddenly pulled by the waist… Cali certainly relied on touches just as much as he did on sweet, sultry words. It took Aurelios’ breath away again and again, but it also managed to stop his head from spinning and making him needlessly worry about the strangest things. How badly could one want to stay together with a complete stranger? And why in the first place? Was it because of how nice he treated him? How gentle and careful, kind and loving, that every word, every short, lingering touch felt like the best thing he had received in a long time. How could he not crave this? Nodding and lowering his face to hide another blush on his cheeks, he followed the two others, slowly approaching the gates that would lead them away from here, hoping their fates were already intertwined enough to keep them together despite all the odds. He wouldn’t be able to carry on without them. Despite the short amount of time it had been. Aurelios wanted the three of them to stay together and, if possible, never be apart again. But this… This judgment could take it all away again. “What if we get separated?”, he finally voiced his worries as they stepped into the long line. Each soul was carefully inspected and measured before getting sorted into one of the doors after the initial assessment process. There were still many before them, and Aurelios meant to make every second they had count. Who knew how many they would still have together? “I do not want that to happen. I enjoy your company, and… I may… want to enjoy it a little while longer…”, he mumbled, unsure if it was wise to say this or if his words would just make the situation awkward. “Forget I said that… It’s… Weird to begin with… We don’t even know each other that well, and here I am, silly old me, imagining a life with a stranger… You probably even have someone you’re waiting to get reunited with…”,

12:49 AM

Aurelios started to ramble, his doubts and other negative thoughts taking over and turning the situation into something a lot more grim than it initially should be. They had hit it off so perfectly, and now… It had made him so happy. Everything that Cali said and did seemed just too good to be true. Surely he couldn’t mean that towards him. Maybe he was reading the signs wrong. By the gods… He had kissed him on the cheek. Had he already overstepped some boundaries? Cali hadn’t shoved him off, but he seemed like a rather friendly individual… Maybe he was just too nice to tell him off? @Inkwell

Cali was continuing to reassure the other male. HIs bright smile retaining as he would use his hand that was opposite to him to carress Aurelios' waist. His thumb gently moving up and down to express his care and assumed love towards the bard. After all, Cali himself was a nervous wreck about this. But he didn't want to show that, especially when such a good, kind, down to earth individual was already teetering on the edge of a panic attack. Or at least, that's what he assumed was happening. He wouldn't know what he would do if Aurelios would fall into a distress. The former poet would at least want to know every answer in the world in order to make his companion feel safe around his arms. If he only could, and if he only can, he really would. Cali had many things to say to the writer, those that he couldn't express in regular words. Something about him made the poet want to make himself be a better version than what he is now. A motivation, an inspiration, a way to stand up and test the bounds of what language can tell... A muse. Upon the question, all of that he wishes would be tested. And unfortunately for him, all of it would falter at this very moment. He didn't know the answer to such a heavy question. What WOULD happen if they got separated? What would Cali do? Would that be the end, was this just a short sweet moment between two strangers and a child? And speaking of the young man, who will watch over him now? What will he do if he was alone. Cali's mind raced, and his face was frozed with a confused smile throughout the question. He never really did know all the answers in life... let alone one. Guillermo never knew anything about what a wise man would say. He was naive, as much as he was before. .

2:50 AM

"W-well, I don't want that to happen to... But if it ever did happen... Well.. I-" He then gets cut off by the bard. Sighing softly as they continued walking up to the line. Staying silent and maintaining his gaze at the floor as he would let out a soft huff. Hearing what Aurelios had to say. So that's what he thought hm? That he was just some sort of fleeting moment. In a way, it pained Cali's chest. Which made him just frustrated enough to raise his head and turn to the other old man. "I don't know where you got that, nor why you have such a pessimistic outlook on life. Sir Nikandros... o-or Aurelios for that matter! But please... I know we don't know each other well. I may be naive and I disregard some certain things for the benefit of the doubt, but... But-! I-I know myself well enough. I have enough confidence to say that I would want to spend my time with you... good sir... you're... you're charming. You're charismatic, grounded and honestly everythinig I could've asked for back then when I was alive!" He says, huffing a bit before looking down in dismay. Collecting his thoughts and readjusting his hair. Before facing Aurelios once again, tears welling up in the corner of his eyes. "I have no one to go to, I had no one to hold... I was a poor man that was forced to drop out of a prestigious school because my mom developed an illness. Forced to grow up early and to take care of a woman that ended up dying early... I spent years alone, in pure loneliness that ate me whole!" "I didn't know what to do with my life, and I lost the inspiration to write. I never knew the answers to life so I wasted my time trying to get over it! Knowing I wouldn't have the longingness nor the drive to find the answer... So why bother!" .

2:50 AM

He says, his body language mirroring everything that he said, some of the spirits watching him as they get closer and closer to judgement. "I wasted my life... I lost time... and I lost the aspiration to write. But you- You Aurelios..." He held the other's hand with both of his. Cupping it in his palms and moving it towards his lips. Kissing his fingers gently as he'd stare at the other male. A tear drop on the left flowing down his cheek. His voice shaky and soft, pulling the other male close. "I-I don't know what it is with you..." Cali states, sniffling gently. "But when I look into your soul, when I bask upon that smile of yours. When I wrap you around my arms... You make me feel like I could have a chance at living again... even when I'm dead". The poet inhales heavily, before shakily letting go of Aurelios' hand during the exhale. "I have no wealth to bathe myself in... No ring to give to your finger, no riverbed that I own. But what I know is that I want to stay with you. Accompany you... as long as I can. Please- let me do so..." "You're the shallow shore amongst troubled waters. Let me lay my masculinity upon your knighthood.

2:50 AM

. @SirFüncelot

Aurelios didn’t know what he had been expecting Cali to answer, but it certainly hadn’t been this. All of this. Cali opening up to him right this moment, with everyone around them watching intently. It was… Strange. Why would he be doing this? Why was he putting his heart out in the open like this for him to see every little thing inside of it? With every word he said, it became clearer, as Aurelios’ eyes grew wider and wider. Was this… Was all of this true? Confused, he could just watch, listen and let those touches happen to him, gulping hard as the other finally finished talking. There was a moment of silence while he fought with himself before gently cupping Cali’s face, his thumbs brushing across his cheeks. “You… I’m sorry… I’m sorry we couldn’t meet earlier.”, he began talking quietly, not caring that they were stopping in the middle of the open field, making everyone walk around them as they talked. “I would have loved to meet you. Maybe we wouldn’t be here yet if that happened. Maybe… So many other things would have turned out differently.”, Aurelios added, closing his eyes, leaning their foreheads against each other. He wanted to return the favor so badly and give Cali a better glimpse at his life before he had died, but he just didn’t know where to start.

9:54 PM

Compared to his story… It seemed insignificant. As if he was trying to grab someone's attention with a mediocre life he had made miserable for himself without the help of anyone else. Surely he couldn’t put those against each other, could he? “Let us… Let us get to know each other. See if we can uphold this romance or if it will come crashing down on us. Because I too want nothing more than to have you by my side. But I fear I will only disappoint you. I’m a boring man who only knows how to sing. I’m sure you will grow bored with me very soon.”, there had been another moment of silence while he just enjoyed the other’s presence, their heads resting against each other in peace and quietness. It was nice. Even the chatter of the surrounding spirits couldn’t disturb this moment between the two. It was true bliss… He leaned in once more, their noses touching, as he smiled, looking Cali in the eyes with his usual gentle and kind expression on his face. “I think it’s a little bit early for a proposal. Don’t you think, Cali? And I’m not even sure if I can wear a ring right now. So don’t worry about stupid things like that right now. We are about to be judged, and I don’t think we can lie our way out of that as well.”, he leaned in as if he were to kiss the other, pulling away at the last second, unsure if this truly was such a good idea. Instead, he pressed a kiss to his forehead. Gentle and kind, meant to sooth his worries, that made his own seem insignificant. “I hope we get to stay together as long as possible. I truly wish for that to happen. Until you grow tired of me or the world ceases to exist. If not as lovers, then maybe at least as friends.”, he smiled, his hands trailing down his face, and then grabbing a hold of his hands, squeezing them lightly. “Do you mind just staying with me here for a bit?

9:55 PM

I don’t think there is a certain time we have to be judged at, so… I want to enjoy this just a little bit longer, if you’d like to.”, Aurelios asked, his eyes lowered to the ground in a nervous and slightly shy way, unsure if this was possible and something Cali enjoyed as well. Surely if they were taking too long, someone would get them, right? And there were a lot of people standing in line anyway. They would have to wait no matter what. Who cared if they did that standing or sitting at the side? They could just get there before the next boat arrived if they really needed to. @Inkwell

Cali's hands were all over the place, gripping the other tightly and pressing their foreheads together. He didn't want to rush either, but it felt like he was running out of time with each and every passing moment that he had with Aurelios. Something was tugging at him, a spirit or an imposing weigh on his shoulder that's dragging him way down under the ground. Huffing softly as he'd gently set them down unto the ground. Kneeling as Alexandros would sit right besides the poet. "I want to get to know you, dear Aurelios..." He whispers out, his warm palm settling on the writer's cheek. His face pursing before expressing a bittersweet smile. One exhale representnig laughter escaping as he would carress the bard's gentle face. "I don't mean to rush, nor do I want to... I am but a man filled with anticipation of what's to come. Quick wit with quicker feet, enthralled to see where we can go... as men... as companions". He states, shakily placing his other palm unto Aurelios' free cheek. .

6:32 PM

His smile continued brightening. "You seem like you're all that I wished for when I was alive... someone grounded and gentle. A soft place to land, a warm hand to hold and a loving pair of lips to engage myself with. Verbally... physically..." He says, lingering a bit as he would bite his own lower lip for a bit. Before looking away a bit in embarrassment right after. "Aurelios Nikandros, you keep my fleeting mind grounded. The chaos gets sorted, and the clutter turns into gold. I do not want to rush this... but I want to know where this goes. You and I, Alexandros... I-" Cali pathetically laughs, shaking his head in disbelief. Only realizing the shit he's been saying now. Bowing his head down to the ground and limping his arms to Aurelios' lap. "I can't believe what I'm saying..." The poet mutters, soon sighing and letting the silence pass before looking back up to stare at the wonderful male before him. "We can stay a bit longer... but life needs to continue moving on, we can't be here for long..." The man states, holding the bard's hand and caressing it gently. Soon inhaling before finally landing a soft, slow kiss at Aurelios' cheek. Letting himself indulge in the tiniest bit as he'd then turn around. Placing Alexandros on his lap and brushing the child's hair. His own head resting against Aurelios' shoulder. Snuggling up to the crook of the other's neck. Closing his eyes and easing up his breathing, returning it back to a normal place. Silently thanking Aurelios for reality checking him again and keeping his conscious at bay.

6:32 PM

@SirFüncelot

His gentle smile remained on his lips the entire time as he listened to Cali’s words. His concerns and compliments, a light blush settling on his cheeks as he grew a bit more embarrassed. He truly had a way with words, even if he didn’t seem to notice it sometimes. It made Aurelios heart beat a little bit faster and slightly more unevenly in anticipation of what the future may hold for them. Even if there were uncertainties, he was willing to risk it if it meant keeping this man by his side for just a moment longer. “I don’t know if I have a definitive answer as far as where this journey is going to take us, but if it were in my power… I would keep our destinies intertwined. Even now after death.”, he kept on smiling, grabbing Cali’s hand and interlocking their fingers with each other. Enjoying how close they were to each other now, with his head on his shoulder. Even if it were just minutes, hours, he would take every second offered to him, to keep going just a little bit longer. Not knowing the gods plan for them… It was making him anxious, but he didn’t want to spend any more time worrying if there were other things they could be doing instead. “I don’t want to move on if it means parting ways. We should have stayed on the shores of Styx then, waiting for hundreds of years, avoiding judgment that way.”, Aurelios thought out loud, rubbing circles onto the back of the other man’s hand with his thumb, staring down at the both of them resting in his lap. It was… ideal like this. Even if it wasn’t much, he didn’t need more. A monochrome beach next to a poisonous river and the judgment halls of the Underworld… Certainly not the best place to be, yet here he was, enjoying every second of it, because of a stranger he barely knew. Humming the tune of the song Cali had started before, his other hand ruffled through Alexandros' hair, who had fallen asleep again against the other’s chest. He looked so peaceful…

2:57 AM

Unbothered and carefree. Much better than when he had found him. Aurelios was glad that they had managed to stick together like this and make the most of it. Nothing made him happier. “I feel like you told me a lot about your past, but mine is still shrouded in darkness… Do you mind listening to me for a moment?”, he finally asked, turning his head slightly to give him a nervous smile. Aurelios’ life surely hadn’t been as tumultuous as Cali’s. It seemed rather boring in comparison, but he still wanted to try to give the other a chance of getting to know him, even though it wouldn’t matter in the end. Their deeds shaped who they were now, but that was it. They had no more influence on them than that. “I grew up with two loving parents, never went hungry a day, and received a good education. I’ve always been better with words than with a sword, writing poems, stories and songs, reading fantastical tales when I had the time.”, he began, leaning his head against Cali’s, feeling his soft hair brush against his skin, tickling him slightly. “I didn’t venture out much. The city walls kept me protected, and I was content at home. Content, but alone. I had friends, sure, but now that I’m here, I probably shouldn’t call them that anymore.”, his voice got a bit more somber, after a sigh. He fidgeted slightly with their hands, obviously nervous. “I don’t know if it was money or fame they were after, but I didn’t live long enough to ask them that. It’s not that I wouldn’t have minded sharing… I just don’t seem to be as good of a judge of character as I have thought to be.”, a huffed laugh left his lips, before he raised his head again, looking directly at Cali. “I don’t think I’m making that same mistake with you, though. And even if I should… I wouldn’t regret it.

2:57 AM

This makes up for it by a thousandfold.”, he tilted his head forward, slowly closing his eyes and cupping Cali’s face. He was leaning in for a kiss, not just a peck on the cheek. Waiting for the other to overcome the last few inches between them and unite their lips. @Inkwell

A kiss. A simple kiss, two pairs of lips touching, interlocking, mingling and finding a way to bond with each other. It was such a simple concept. A soft mark, an intense remark. Something Cali never knew he'll get in his whole entire life. Shot through the heart, an arrow of Cupid that he never saw coming. Sure he had other men before, but they have never gotten far. Not to the point that he felt the blessing of love. Not like this, not like him. With a lean forward, Guillermo closed his eyes. Pressing them together and wrapping his hand behind Aurelios' nape. It was a bit laughable really, the man was a bad kisser. He didn't know how to do it, how could? He was handsome, but never openly available. Who would've known that he'd only open up through actions and not words this late in his life. Or per se, his afterlife. Adjusting to the new feeling, he eventually eases into the kiss. Pulling back just the slightest bit before tilting his head and readjusting his mouth. Chuckling softly, the timbre of his voice passing through Aurelios'. It was fast, granted. But he didn't care anymore, Cali had little to no one to live for. At least now he had the other. Pulling back, his eyes shimmered underneath the sun, teary and filled with happiness. His smile reached from ear to ear, sheepish and with a newfound giddiness. Pecking Aurelios' nose again, Cali brushed the other male's hair and finally began to speak after a moment of listening. .

9:58 PM

"You really know how to make a poet lack words, do you Aurelios?" He teases out, laughing a bit before removing the author's hand from his face. Intertwining their fingers together and placing it on his cheek. Rubbing their skin together and never letting go of his sights. Nikandros' eyes... what a beautiful sight. "What a humble man, you are. I am grateful to gain a personal piece of your heart. By this understanding, you are no less than me. You are not comparable to what I've gone through, no distress is truly the same as another. No one's discourse is greater than any other. You're as much of a warrior as me... as much of an artist as me. Though you have gone through many, I am here for you, dear..." He mentions, laughing softly. Pecking Aurelios' hand before placing it back on his cheek. Closing his eyes and embracing the other male's warmth.

9:58 PM

@SirFüncelot

Aurelios still didn’t share Cali’s view. His life hadn’t been excited and truly not bad aside from his unfortunate end. So telling him he was just as much of a warrior as him… It was strange. He wasn’t free from fear like the heroes in the stories. He wasn’t courageous or filled with virtue. He was just… Aurelios. But if that was enough for Cali… Why should he try to make himself seem worse than he truly was? He could still understand his pain, even if he hadn’t gone through it as well. Aurelios was able to understand and act upon it, comforting and cherishing the other should he need it. Keep this fleeting moment between the two of them safe. Blushing deeply, he just let those words wash over him. They passed him like a warm breeze in the spring. Leaving him craving more. For the warmth of summer right in front of him. Finally, he could reach it just by extending his arms. His fingers could touch that warm skin, caress and stroke it, while a smile spread across his lips. “You are the one who takes my breath and words away. You make me feel all fuzzy so that I lose my trail of thought, unsure what I meant to say just a few moments ago.”, Aurelios whispered, leaning into the soft touch on his cheek with a sigh, tightening his grip on Cali’s other hand. “I do prefer to be an artist, though… I’m no warrior. Not even a very bad one.”, he chuckled, tugging at the other’s arm to pull him closer. Their foreheads meeting, followed by the tips of their noses, and finally, after he turned his head to the side a bit, their lips. Those kisses… They felt so light and sweet, tasting like honey and milk, leaving him wanting more and more. Aurelios couldn’t even remember the last time he had kissed another human, let alone this often, paired with this strange sensation…

9:44 PM

He pushed the thought away, just focusing on Cali right in front of him. Their lips met once more right after the first kiss, just because he couldn’t get enough and didn’t want to pull away. But of course, the moment couldn’t last forever… A gentle tug on his clothes made Aurelios break away and look down at Alexander, who looked at him with wide but curious eyes, rubbing them slightly sleepily. The young boy extended his arms, obviously wanting to be picked up and hugged. Maybe something was distressing him? With a sigh, Aurelios freed his hands, picking up the child to place him on his lap. Almost instantly, the boy's head dropped to the side against Cali’s shoulder, snuggling closer to the other man, his small hand grabbing onto the fabric of his shirt. Alexander didn’t seem keen on talking, his eyelids growing heavy until he couldn’t hold them open any longer. His breathing slowed, and he snuggled closer against Cali’s chest with the cutest expression on his face possible. It was adorable, even if it had interrupted them… Taking care of Alexander was their top priority, and it wasn’t as if there weren’t other things they could do besides kiss. One of Aurelios’ hands rested upon Alexander’s back, gently stroking it, while the other searched until finding Cali’s and intertwining their fingers with each other once again. “I want to stay like this forever. Are you sure we need to move on? Can’t we just stay here?”, Aurelios mumbled quietly, trying not to wake Alexander while speaking. The boy didn’t even stir, so he was quite sure that it wouldn’t wake him any time soon, and his nap… It had given them a little bit more time before their final judgment. The uncertainty of it still lingered within him, even though he tried to hide it. Just imagining that they may get separated… He hated the thought. He hated it so much. @Inkwell

Cali didn't believe a word that Aurelios said, not because he doubted the other male. But moreso, he knew that there was a part in Aurelios that didn't believe in himself. Sighing softly to himself, he decided to keep that belief to himself for now. Knowing that there will be an event one day that'll test such claims, and he knows, even when he just met the author, that he'll prove how strong he was in actuality. Bravery and strength isn't just physicality, after all. One's words were enough. More than enough. Privilege makes life easier, not free. A lost child like Alexander only hammers such messages down between two old men. Sighing softly, his smile would return back to his face. Melancholic and understanding of the circumstances between paradise and hell. They'll have to face it, one way or another. Being avoidant about it wasn't going to make it better. Only delaying the inevitable, Cali didn't want to show that part of him. After all, he ran away from too many things before when he was alive. Not here, not anymore. He didn't want to run away from the truth anymore. .

9:51 PM

Not when there's nothing left to lose. The poet was dead, what else is there for him at the end of the line? He's past it already. The poet trusts in the fates, for him, Aurelios and Alexander to all be in paradise. Standing up, he'd look down at Aurelios with a sad smile. Assisting him in standing up and swaying the child on his arm during the process. "We both know that it isn't like that, Aurelios. As much as I want to myself, I know we'll still be together past those gates, you and I". Cali mentions, staring into the author's eyes. Snapping out of it when he feels Alexander shuffling on his chest. Laughing softly and kissing the child's head. "And Alexander, of course..." He adds on, holding Aurelios' hand and redirecting his gaze to the gates of hell. "The fates wont allow us to stay... all we can do is hope, my love. And I believe in it..." tightening his grip, Cali would look at his now assumed lover. "I believe that they'll make us stay. So... shall we go and see then?" @SirFüncelot

(( Hi there!

@Inkwell @SirFüncelot , We noticed this roleplay has been inactive for 90 days or more. Please reply to this message so I am pinged if you would like to keep this roleplay open. In addition, roleplay must begin within 7 days, otherwise this channel will be moved to our archives. All archived roleplays are eventually uploaded onto http://rphq.me/ and can be viewed there. If you wish to archive this roleplay yourself, you can request this with the /archiverequest command in #channel ))

He knew well enough that it was already too late to regret anything. His life was over, and he hadn’t really cared about the decisions he had made. What did he care if he went to Elysium or the Asphodel Fields? Aurelios had been sure that he wouldn’t have to wander into the darkest depths of Tartarus, as nothing he had ever done would warrant such a decision. But now that he had met this stranger… It was hard to imagine them parting ways. He wanted to stay by his side, even if it was just for a moment longer, wishing that their fates at least intertwined here in the underworld. Surely, they could go to the fields together… After all… How could they possibly be judged as something better or worse than that? “We could just stay here… Who would even care? It’s not the most beautiful place, but… We’re not disturbing anyone here.”, Aurelios tried again with a soft sigh, once again contemplating their choices. Even if it was just for a bit until they angered someone by staying here… It was worth it if it guaranteed that they stayed together like this. Nothing else mattered to Aurelios but staying by this man’s side, wishing to see more of him. Learn more about his past, even though it seemed to not really matter down here. “I’m content just staying by your side. I don’t mind angering Hades or Persephone. Shouldn’t those two be the most understanding? Apart for the entire year, but the winter. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind…”, he added, his voice becoming quieter as he watched Cali get up, extending his hand for him to hold on to. Reluctantly, he grabbed it, squeezing it lightly as if he had to reassure himself that the other was still there. As if he could disappear if he wasn’t careful enough. Those worries were useless, and yet… Here he was. Worrying his life away, even in death. How absolutely pathetic…

1:17 AM

“You make it sound so easy. As if passing through that gate won’t decide our final fate. I’m no hero, like in the stories I tell. I’m unable to change fate once it has been written. I’d…”, Aurelios trailed off, his eyes dropping to the ground as he stopped after barely taking three steps. This was really hard. “I would have liked to meet you sooner. It would have been nice to spend more time together without me worrying, though… I probably would have worried just as much if we were still alive. And much younger… The worries would have been different, though.” A gentle chuckle escaped him at the thought of running into him in his younger years. Would they have had a similar connection even then? Cali seemed wild and untamable even now. Surely… He would have been too boring for him, wouldn’t he? “I would have worried about such stupid things…” Talking and imagining a different past for the two of them helped to ease his worries slightly, making him slowly step forward until he once again was walking alongside Cali again. “Maybe it’s a good thing that you didn’t see me like that. I would have been such a mess… You, on the other hand… I can only imagine how handsome you must have been. Though surely not as stunning as now.”, he rambled, only realizing too late what he had just said. His cheeks turned dark as Aurelios averted his gaze in embarrassment. Changing the topic after clearing his throat, he returned to the worries that seemed to hold tight onto his heart. “We will get judged separately… We need to make sure we’re able to find each other on the other side. I’m not sure what to expect, but… I’ll… I’ll look for you, no matter how long it takes. I have an eternity after all.” With an awkward laugh he tried to lighten the mood, even though his hands had turned sweaty now that they had reached the end of the line. At least there were still plenty of souls before them. Aurelios was determined to drag this out for as long as he could. @Inkwell

(( Hi there!

@👯 Bunny Dancing through Life 👯 - jump ((Not sure if my first message made it through, as neither I nor Crimson can see it. Just in case I'm saying it again. We want to continue this, there was just a mess up on my part not realizing that there was a reply waiting here for me

As of now a reply has been posted to the RP!))

A multitude of words that were strung in order to keep trying to convince Cali in hearing Aurelios' desperate plea. Knitting a phrase, and making a jumbled cloth of a paragraph. Everything just made Cali want to push the other soul into facing the difficult, to face the needed. He knew where Aurelios was coming from, but he's been there before; he didn't want to be there no more. Though he couldn't deny... His words fluttered his heart into a million butterflies. It made him consider escapism. Something that Aurelios probably knew all his life. On top of his avoidance of conflict, Cali just wondered how he truly lived back then in the living world. Sighing softly, Cali gently carresses Aurelios' sweaty palm. Kissing it and laughing softly in embarrassment, "I would've probably made you so worried with the places that I go to, with how late I go home. Or with how impulsive and reckless my actions were back then when I was alive." Something within him wanted to get this over with, he knew deep down that he wasn't the best individual. There was a daunting weight looming before him, a stinge of pain that slowly stretched out his heart strings one by one. Cali knew what was coming, he didn't know how to say it, but he just wanted for it to be over. He could only have this for so long, he could only run away for so long... He'd rather end it early rather than potentially hurt the three of them more. .

9:04 PM

Maybe they can both be in the same place, who knows? He didn't know Aurelios' much anyways. Though that's probably more concerning considering how fast they developed, but all he could do is hope for the same outcome no? "Y-yeah... I'll make sure to look for you too. And to look for this guy in the case that he gets separated from any of us." He says, caressing Alexandro's back. Staring into the horizon as he contemplates his complicated feelings. Stepping one step forward with each and every soul entering through the gates of the afterlife. His breathing getting heavier as they got closer and closer to the front line. He knew where he was going to end up in... and that's the only thing concrete in his conscience. Everything else? Oh he could only wish he could untangle the threads. He wanted to be with Aurelios, but he didn't deserve to be where he thinks he's going to end up in. All he could do is hope... hope for the best possible outcome for someone like him. @SirFüncelot

Would he have worried about Cali coming home late? Probably. Though maybe that’s what he had missed. Someone nagging him out of his shell. Someone making him experience life beyond the comforts of his own home. Could he have changed Cali as well? Beg him to stay? To not worry him further with reckless actions? Aurelios wasn’t too sure, uncertain what to expect from something he had never experienced. It left him wondering and questioning every possible thing, which wasn’t good for his current anxiety. If anything, it only made it worse, and the kiss on his hand and the light squeeze didn’t do much to reassure him. The answer he received wasn’t as certain as he had wanted. Was Cali afraid too? Despite not knowing each other for that long… There had been an immediate connection; he could still feel it now. As if they were drawn towards each other and… Aurelios couldn’t explain it, though he had read the story of the soulmates once. The beginning of humankind as it was now. He hadn’t been sure if he could believe the tale, but now, after meeting Cali… It felt like there was something true to it. As if they were two halves of one whole being, finally brought together. Or maybe he had been alone too long and was now craving companionship. Surely he was just becoming overdramatic and sappy due to finally finding someone he could easily connect with. Someone handsome and easy to talk to. Was any of this even real?

4:26 AM

The closer the door to the judgment hall came, the paler Aurelios became. This still didn’t seem like a good idea, but Cali was convinced that they had to do this. They probably did. Who knew what would happen if they stayed and lingered for too long? Would someone come collect them? Would they just vanish? No matter what it was, Aurelios was too easily scared to ever figure it out. He wouldn’t want to try, but… What if they stayed? Couldn’t they just leave a little bit later? Probably not. Divine judgment always came when one expected it least. “I’m happy to have met you.”, he mumbled, squeezing Cali’s hand a little bit harder. “I just want you to know that in case we don’t see each other again.”, Aurelios continued, unable to avoid his pessimism. “We haven’t been able to spend as much time as I would want together, but… The time we did have was nice. I had a lot of fun, even though I don’t know how much time even passed. It felt like the blink of an eye and yet like an eternity. It’s a bit confusing, but I don’t mind that.” He gave the other a small smile, as if Cali was the one who needed cheering up. “I hope to see you again on the other side. I’d like to spend some more time together. As much time as you can spare for an old poet like me.” The words were followed by a soft chuckle. By now, they were up next, and Aurelios was still scared, but also knew if he didn’t step through the veil first, he most likely would chicken out. Cupping Cali’s face for what hopefully wasn’t the last time, he leaned in for a very short kiss. Their lips barely touched before he was ushered to move on, leaving the other man behind with Alexandros, moving towards an uncertain future. @Inkwell