ROLEPLAY HQ - tame-the-beast

reddeR 18-Nov-21 05:21 AM

Celeste BOT 18-Nov-21 05:23 AM

(This scene needs a hunter, some opportunist, a thrill seeker with his own best interests at heart) (Reluctance, resistance) Kingswood, the vast expance of thick, untamed wilderness was said to be home to many creatures. Creatures so magical you could make a living selling them to the right people. If you could catch them, that is. That's where hunters come in. Kingswood has no villages or towns, at least, not the sort that people live in. There may be ruins of some few places where people once thought to settle, but it's been so long since they were abandoned nobody knows for certain where they even are. The hunters are the only ones who still occasionally might tread their overgrown streets. The hunters brave Kingswood for the fey creatures, poaching illegally in land belonging to the king. Hunters know more od Kingswood than any others. They are the omly people who dare to venture into Kingswood and return. The best of them do it time and again. Hunters are solitary creatures, never staying long in town, always eager to return to Kingswood. Logically, they do this to avoid the gaurd, as poaching is an offense punishable by death. Some say it's because they spend too much time with the fey, and begin to become fey themselves. Only the hunters know why they always go back to Kingswood, in the end. It may just be that they enjoy the hunt. Maybe they are ambitious and seek to bring in one of the real beasts of the wood, the griffin, basilisk, ogre, or giant that would bring them wealth for a lifetime. Those beasts are much more dangerous to hunt, of course, but the more dangerous the animal, the greater the prize. It's been many years since the most dangerous prey was common in Kingswood. The fey have been dieing, or hiding, and Hunters have become even more rare. They still can be found, though, in the towns that border the Kingswood, on nights when they come to sell their catch and drink some ale.

There are stories told then. When a hunter returns from Kingswood there are always stories told. Fascinating talkes of their travels in Kingswood, tracking and fighting and bringing in the prey that no other can catch. Stories that make every person, from the youngest boy who can push open the tavern door, to the oldest man who can plough his fields, gather with excitement as soon as word of a hunter reaches their ears. So when a hunter came by Thorpe village claiming to be none other than Amotin Davasheer, who was long since thought to be lost to the wood, interest in what he had to say was high. Amotin didn't disappoint, either. He'd been missing for almost 7 years now, and had 7 years worth of fantastic tales to tell. One tale of particular interest was of the unicorn. He claimed to have seen him with his own eyes, but of course this elusive beast had escaped the old man, as he was ill prepared to capture such a quarry. For a unicorn cannot be hunted. It must, at all costs, be taken alive. If killed, the consequences, some speculate, would be devastating. Others believe the Kingswood would cease to be the safe haven of the few. Still others believe the fey would be released into the world of man. An astute observer might have notice the strange way Amotin behaved, or that he didn't touch the food or drink provided. That he wore no shoes went overlooked, and when he attacked nobody was prepared, resulting in massive casualties before he fled back to the Kingswood.

Aeron BOT 19-Nov-21 08:23 PM

He slid onto the bar next to the male, gloved finger tapping the wooden surface. "You're... Amotin. Yes?" The man said softly. His face was covered by a black mask. Hair to toe he was covered. The man set a bit of expensive wine on the table. Only a fool wouldn't take it. "I need a bit of information from you." He asked smoothly the mask expressionless without any flaw in the flat surface.

Ambra BOT 19-Nov-21 08:37 PM

the dirty, grinning woodsman grabbed the goblet from the table and gestured wildly with it. "You've come to hear my tales!" Amotin announced loudly, bringing the goblet to his mouth. Before he took so much as a sip, he was talking and gesturing again, seemingly not caring about the wine sloshing over his hand. "I've got many of them, boy, from the depths of Kingswood! From the heart of the fey! I've seen ogres! And the griffins, aye, they are there! You wouldn't believe the beauty of a griffin! Though of course, it has nothing on the unicorn!" As the afternoon turned into evening, Amotin had become more and more boisterous, seeming to be getting drunk. Many rounds had been bought for him, which served to explain his behavior. But the meal someone had kindly prepared was cold on the dish beside him. As he gestured he set his elbow in the dish. This didn't seem to bother him in the least. He continued to ramble drunkenly, gravy soaking in to his mud and forest debris soaked cloak.

Aeron BOT 19-Nov-21 08:53 PM

The man had disappeared at some point, drifting away silently when unobserved as if he hadn't been there in the first place. The drunk hunter would slide sideways off his seat and be dead before he struck the floor, the wine heavily laced with poison. Not the strongest stuff but enough that the drunkard would be out of Aeron's hair. Most of the information he'd spouted had been false or lost in the drunken slur but he'd described the glade well enough he may be able to track the unicorn. Clicking to his mare he removed his mask, rubbing a hand over his eyes. He hadn't been able to sleep in two days, the sickness starting to seriously set in. He'd been poisoned with ill blood, and suffering through pain and fever. Unable to eat or sleep, without ability to regulate his body temperature. His once bright green eyes were red and stressed, his skin pale and graying. He patted the mares neck, heading back for the calming dark of Kingswood. He'd been abandoned as a child and had found solace in the presence of those old trees, learning to care for himself with the harvestable foodstuffs and medicinal herbs. And with herbs came poisons. He learnt quickly what could seize the muscles, what was tasteless in wine, what could swell the brain. It became his hobby to build resistances to what he found.

Celeste BOT 19-Nov-21 09:01 PM

she watched the mare curiously as she approached the forest, wondering if the man on her back was awake or sleeping, if he knew he was going into the Kingswood. She could sense sickness in him, and wanted to help. But she was leery of being near man. She silently tracked the mare, always just far enough behind not to be seen, but never so far she couldn't catch up in moments. It became a game, though not one the man knew he was playing. She would wait, slowly plucking the petals off of a flower, then see how quickly she could find him again.

Aeron BOT 19-Nov-21 09:09 PM

Aeron gripped the reigns, and shoved a small pad of bitter leaves into his cheek. It was all he had to relieve the pain without sacrificing his thinking. Not that he was thinking clear in the first place. He stopped the horse in a small section of forest, redigging the firepit, careful to not light up the forest. Painfully, he removed the mares saddle and reigns without worry of her wandering far. "I tell you Marda. Its getting harder to carry this damn thing." He grunted dropping the saddle, joints already aching. He was talking to his horse. "I need to find that horse... see if it can cure me..."

Celeste BOT 19-Nov-21 09:13 PM

she creeps a bit closer, hearing him talk. He seems to be suffering. Her heart aches, wanting to go to him, help him, but caution keeps her back. He doesn't belong in the woods. He's not from the woods. She can't be seen, mustn't be seen.

Aeron BOT 19-Nov-21 09:19 PM

He spit the pulped leaves into the fire sitting on his bed roll yanking off his boots and heavier clothing pieces, preferring to sleep in a tunic and pants. He rubbed his wrists and patted the horse as she snuffled his black hair, rubbing her velvety nose. "I'm fine, Marda." He reassured her, but more for himself. Eventually his heart would give out. He sighed laying back and looking at the leaves above him waver gently in the smoke and heat of his fire.

Celeste BOT 19-Nov-21 09:34 PM

as he lays down, she watches closely, waiting until she is certain he is asleep. In the dark, she glows faintly with a shimmering luminescence. The horse doesn't react to her at all. She approached the man and kneels over him, looking over his clothes and face. With the lightest touch, she strokes his cheek, drawing the sickness out. But it's not her magic, and she cannot cure him. She can only heal so much. Satisfied she has done her best, she dissappear back into the woods. But she doesn't go far, just far enough.

Aeron BOT 19-Nov-21 09:37 PM

He relaxed visibly. She'd worry he'd woken when he lightly blinked awake but he'd closed his eyes again and stretched out. He woke and shook out his head and hands, joints not hurting for once. He rubbed a cheek blinking. "Huh."

Celeste BOT 19-Nov-21 09:40 PM

she watches from a safe distance as he wakes, seeing his puzzlement at his improved health. Silently laughing, she stretches out across the ground, watching him do whatever he does. This was why she had come the the edge of the wood, to see the people who lived there.

Aeron BOT 19-Nov-21 09:45 PM

he put out the fire, feeling good but knowing it probably wouldn't last. He left Marda to graze as he walked into the forest, dropping to kneal by the creek, washing his face in the crisp and cold water and took a drink. Cupping the water in his palms he sighed gently.

Celeste BOT 19-Nov-21 09:48 PM

she follows, stopping occasionally to pick a flower. She pauses to greet the mare, placing a kiss on her soft nose an a flower in her mane. Then she follows the man, keeping just out of sight. She isn't afraid of him, just cautious. She knows the stories about men, about how they kill fey. She doesn't want to take chances.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 05:13 AM

He stripped, washing his clothes in the water seeming unbothered by the cold as he rung out the water.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 05:18 AM

she watches from nearby, venturing a bit closer as he seems to be preoccupied with what he's doing. She's curious to see him naked, but the risk of being caught is too great. Besides, she can feel her brethren moving farther away, she will have to follow, or loose him.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 12:06 PM

he relaxed on the rocks, knee bent and arm draped lazily over. He needed to keep going. Sighing he pushed himself up, pulling on his tunic pants and boots, wandering back to Marda. He saddled her up with his supplies but walked with the reigns in hand deeper into the forest to look for signs of the unicorn. They caused the forest to flourish around them, and liked water, so he stuck to the river.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 12:15 PM

when he dresses and begins walking with the mare, she is excited to see that he goes in the correct direction. Perhaps she won't have to leave his company as soon as she had thought. So long as he doesn't get near to her brethren, she can continue the game from yesterday. With childlike enthusiasm and delight, she begins once more. She stops to pick a flower, then slowly plucks each petal from it, dropping them in the river to float toward the man. Once every petal is gone she pushes ahead to catch up, careful not to be seen while she gets as close as she dares. Once there, she picks another flower and repeats the process. She doesn't realize that there being flowers everywhere she stops is unusual, as it's always been that way. As the day wears on she can sense the man's illness more, though not as much as the day before. What alarms her is that, at some boint, her brethren stopped moving, was perhaps waiting for her, and this man was gradually drawing near. She hoped her brethren did not decide to come meet her.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 02:34 PM

Aeron leaned onto the horse, panting gently, his hands wrapped in the mare's hair. After a moment he slid into the saddle. He felt his legs aching. "Lets go Marda." He said gently and as he continued to move forward he passed out in the saddle, then slid off and hit the grass.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 04:08 PM

she hesitates to go to the man, uncertain what was happening. Why would he just fall to the ground? When several minutes pass and he hasn't moved, she ventures closer, still staying fairly concealed. The mare wanders a bit away and grazes, and he still doesn't move. She looks around, as if to make sure nobody is nearby, then cautiously approaches the man. She shouldn't do this, it was too risky. She would be putting her brethren at risk! She was doing it anyway. She just wanted to see if he would live, perhaps she could help make sure he lived. Leaving him seemed too much like killing him.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 06:06 PM

he was struggling to breath, holding tight to his sides as his lungs burned. He groaned as he tried to push himself up, "just keep going Aeron." He panted gently wiping his bloody lip clean on a gloved hand.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 06:32 PM

she freezes, as if she could be still enough that the man wouldn't notice the slightly luminescent woman with white hair and a white dress kneeling next to him, about to touch him. When she sees the blood she only hesitates a moment longer before laying her hands on him, gently urging him to lay still. She strokes his face, feeling how hot he is, and for the first time has a chance to stare into his glossy, feverish eyes. Brow knit with concern, she sits on the grass and gently lifts his head into her lap. Her hands stroke over his face, seeking his skin, needing to touch to draw it out as best she can. "My brother will come. He can help you more than I." I whisper quietly, not even sure if you can hear me. I continue trying to draw it out as I wait.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 06:34 PM

"I've looked for you." He said gently resting into her arms, too sick to even process she was real. She could leave him and he'd assume she was a hallucination. He smiled gently as she pet his face, calming his anxious heart. He knew he deserves to die but he didn't want to. There was so much to do.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 06:38 PM

I look around frantically, hoping my brethren comes soon. He isn't far, maybe he is close enough to sense my urgency. I can't save you on my own, I need his help. If he will help at all. I know he won't be happy about me speaking with you.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 06:40 PM

"You're Fae. Like me." He said softly showing his ears, the tips having been cut and then cauterized into rounded arches. "My momma was Fae." He murmured again resting into her arms. "Please don't leave."

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 07:22 PM

I cradle him to me and try to pull the sickness out. Just as the sun is setting a soft white glow appears between the trees. Everywhere the light touches seems to wake up, to come alive and grow. Insmile when I see it slowly coming toward us. "There! He's coming!" I say excitedly. The unicorn stops some distance away, staring, before shaking its mane irritable and stamping. "Oh, please! He isn't going to hurt us, he's too sick! Don't you feel it!" I pleade. The brilliant white stallion dances a bit closer before stamping again. "Please!"

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 07:47 PM

He faintly smiles at the beautiful thing, suddenly unable to form any words to say to her. He just silently prayed. He had no reason to be saved and the creature would know of what he'd done. The blood on his hands. He was hallucinating. Drowning. He reached for the sunlight above him, promising a breath.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 08:17 PM

"please? Can't you see he's dieing? I tried already, I can't do it!" I beg, pulling you closer. The white cautiously comes a bit closer, close enough to see the shimmering tears on my cheeks. He lowers his head, sniffing the air closer to us, then still stubbornly shakes his whole body, dancing backward. "He wont... he won't do it!" I say, in shock that he would refuse to help me. "He says there is more than sickness in you. Is it true?" I ask, looking down at you in my arms.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 08:22 PM

"Let me repay. Let me fight." He choked out gently. "Please have mercy." He yanked messily at his belt to throw away his knives, fingers numbly plucking at the hooks. He dug into his chest, lungs half filling with blood as he started to drown. "I dont want to die."

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 08:35 PM

I watch the unicorn as it turns, snorting and stamping, and walks away. I know what I'm considering is wrong, but so is he, for walking away from someone who needs help. "You make me do it, brother. I have no choice." I say quietly. I blink, and two tears slide down my wet cheeks. One falls on you, landing on your lip. I lower my head and kiss you, pulling the sickness and death from you as I do. The unicorn runs back, coming close before rearing, front legs kicking the air as he let's loose a furious neigh. I don't stop, even as I feel the sickness settling into me. He gallops away again, only to return moments later. Eyes rolling, blowing, stamping, with the golden horn on his brow held aloft proudly, the unicorn eventually falls quiet and watches as I take the sickness from your body into mine. Then, with a final, sad neigh, he turns and dissappears into the wood, galloping for all he's worth. You feel the weight lift from your chest, your head clears as you are able to breath. Your lungs clear, even your temperature lowers. By the time I collapse onto you, you feel as though you were healthier, by far, than at any point in your life.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 08:42 PM

He gasped softly, holding her up, and rolled to rest her back on the grass. He pushed back her hair whimpering. "Godamn it no. No." He said softly angrily wiping his cheeks of tears and bundled her into his arms rocking. "Not another person. No one else." He looked up to the open path of where the unicorn ran and pushed himself up. He carried her tightly to him, following the creatures.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 08:59 PM

I watch through a feverish haze, not certain if what I'm seeing is real or hallucinated. I'm not wasted from the sickness, my body fights against it hard. It's a loosing battle, but I have more strength and health than you did and can last longer. "He's angry, but he won't let me die." I try to say. I don't know if you heard me. I smile, thinking about you chasing a unicorn on foot just to save me. It doesn't seem like the act of darkness. Though I cannot sense the darkness in a soul, only the illness of their body.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 09:01 PM

"shush. Your lungs will fill with blood. Just keep breathing." He grunted as he gained strength, chasing it down. He held tight to her. He hated being in debt to anyone. "Why he'd leave then?" He growled angrily.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 09:07 PM

"he said you were stained with more than sickness, he wouldn't heal you." I take a painful, deep breath, wondering how many more I will be able to take. I focus on how warm your arms feel, tight and secure around me. "You would just leave if you were not good. You would leave me die with your sickness." I say with conviction.

Aeron BOT 20-Nov-21 09:13 PM

"I dont like debts. Even to the dead." He muttered but shifted her to a more comfortable position for her, half running to try and catch up but knowing it was foolish.

Celeste BOT 20-Nov-21 09:28 PM

"you can't catch a unicorn!" I point out, "not even your lovely mare could catch him." I shudder forcefully, my fever spiking suddenly and leaving me drained. You feel the heat radiating off of my body. I cough weakly, producing no blood yet but a sign that damage has begun.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 08:04 AM

"A human can't catch a unicorn." He grunted and focused, tapping into skills he rarely needed. He hadn't understood, when he was a child, why the man he called father despised him. He knew his birth caused his mothers death, but even then his father had shown him nothing of love. He'd cut the tips of his ears and had attempted to blind him. 'I can't look at those damn eyes no more!' Hed screamed at Aeron as he took a pin to them. Aeron had discovered how he truly saw that day. Celeste would see the darkness of a shadow consume them both, encompassing them like an old friend and Aeron took the step between the boundaries of two places, and ran out into the light of the unicorns glade. He panted gently, out of practice of stepping so far. "It returns here, yes?" He had to set her down to rest his pounding heart.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 12:57 PM

"home?" I say, looking around at the familiar glade. "Is it real?" I push up from the ground, slowly trying to sit up, gasping at the ache deep in my muscles. I fall back to the ground and sob. "It hurts!" I cry out, "how could he leave you like this?"

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 01:16 PM

he silenced her with a finger to his own lips. "Calm. You're alright." He said gently. He glanced around for the unicorn, teeth grit.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 01:47 PM

I try to sit up again, braced for the pain this time, and manage to push myself into a sitting position. I hug myself and weep, unable to do any more. My fever-glazed eyes roll as I look around the glade. Things seem to lurch and jump, I can't focus clearly on anything. I see you and reach towards you, thinking you are much closer than you are. When I fall forward and hit the ground hard, I can't bring myself to try and sit up again. I curl up around myself and weep. "H-how c-could he leave you like this?" I ask again. In the dark, my body still let's off a faint luminescence, but it seems to flicker and waver.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 01:50 PM

"Because he sees life as a gift, not a necessity." He helped her up holding out a small bundle of leaves. "Chew them then keep the pulp in your cheek. It'll help." He said softly, wincing at her clear expression of pain.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 03:40 PM

I look at you, swaying slightly. I take the leaves, but don't put them in my mouth. You can feel the fever radiating from me as you hold them out to me.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 04:10 PM

He pushed back her hair gently then picked her back up to look for the unicorn, cursing under his breath.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 04:21 PM

finally the unicorn comes out of cover, walking toward the pair from across the clearing. He approaches slowly, ears twitching as he nervously stamps and blows. He comes close, but keeps a wide space between himself and us. I look up at him and he slowly comes close enough to touch. But when I reach for him, he pulls away. After a moment he presses his velvety nose in my hand and gently lips at my fingers.He freezes for a moment, then turns and gallops from the glade. I sniffle, tears still falling, still pale and feverish. I watch him go silently, then pull away from you, taking a few steps after him before I fall again. "Don't ever come back!" I yell after the beast, then curl up once more and cry.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 04:27 PM

He silently watches, heart hurting at her loss. It was his fault. All of it. He glared at her on the ground. "Why did you help me?!" He barked angrily. "I didn't need your help."

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 04:33 PM

I snort quietly. "The only reason I even knew you existed was because I was the only one who could help you!" I say. Your anger confuses me, I can't understand why you would be angry with me.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 04:53 PM

He grit his teeth. "You ruined your own life for a stranger. Dont do that again." He snapped and turned on his heel, heading back to his horse.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 05:05 PM

I watch you walk away silently, feverishly shivering in the moonlight. I let out a heartbroken wail as you leave the glade. I know I won't die now, but I wish I would. Your cold disregard is shocking, shattering my faith in the good in men's hearts. "He was right!" I accuse, "there is no good left in men's hearts!"

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 05:22 PM

He returned on Marda holding out a hand silently to her. "Hurry up." He growled gently. "Or I'm leaving you here." He hadn't been able to leave her there

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 05:39 PM

still confused, I take your hand and pull myself upright, with your help. I manage to hold on so you can haul me up onto the horse. I lean heavily on you. I don't ask where you are going, or what you will do with me. I can feel myself healing, the sickness slowly leaving my body. My fever burns hotter as I fight off the poison. But it's exhausting. I shiver against you, my fever causing chills, but can't sleep.

Chii Axi BOT 21-Nov-21 05:43 PM

the unicorn runs for a long time, well into the next day, putting enough space between himself and his brethren that he can no longer feel where she is. He finally slows down, realizing he has come to a dangerous part of Kingswood when he sees a pile of bones. A bear trap closes on his hind hoof, teeth biting in deep. He tries to move, but the trap is secured to a root. When he tries to shake it off the teeth just grind in deeper, making him scream all that much louder.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 05:52 PM

He tsked, tossing his cloak over her and clicking to the horse. Least he could do is try to find a place for her. He sighed gently, rubbing his wrists. Shadow stepping took alot out of him.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 06:06 PM

"you didn't leave?" I mutter, holding on around your waist. "He was wrong?"

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 06:10 PM

"No I didn't leave." He said softly, still annoyed and looking through the corner of his eyes back. "Do you not have villages in Kingswood? Hidden Fae?" He tsked. Hed always hoped their was secret holdouts that'd accept him, even if he was only half.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 06:19 PM

"if they do, I do not know of them. Even the fey cannot be trusted. They all hunt us." As my fever gradually abates, I start to observe more details. Well, without the sickness weakening you, you seem much stronger, more in control. And less like you belong in the Kingswood. More human.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 06:26 PM

"Damn." He muttered holding tight to the amulet in his fingers. His mother had been sold as a slave, having him out of wedlock to a human farmer. Her age and physical disabilities had made her cheaper than a pig sow. Hed been born out of her death, having been cut from her to save his life. Celeste would notice, if she looked close at his eyes, that his pupils didn't function. It heavily restricted his sight. Light easily overwhelmed him, and he found solace in shadows. Comfort in darkness. His father had always called him 'Unseelie fae brat'.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 07:23 PM

my luminescence gains strength as the sickness leaves me. I don't have a complete recovery, as the unicorn could heal without taking the illness into itself. Instead I rapidly fight off the infection. When I wake from a nightmare, I blame the fever. Everything seems like a fever dream. I would almost believe it had been, if not for the dark-clad figure I seem to be holding onto. I sit up suddenly, alarmed to find myself so close to another person. As what happened comes back to me, the dream fades from my mind. I study the man, what I can of him from where I'm seated. I don't say anything, not certain what I should say. I've never had someone to just...talk to.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 07:27 PM

"My nearest hold out is on the bluff outside Kingswood edge. Hope your fine sleeping on the ground because I dont have a sleep mat." He stated. He was veritably ignoring her, still angry at her foolish actions though grateful at the same time.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 07:42 PM

he glanced back when she went silent, worried he was being too harsh. Shed lost her family basically. He looked back forward sighing. "Is there anywhere you know you'll be safe?"

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 08:22 PM

"I have only been in the glade, I go where my brother goes." I say simply. It wasn't entirely true. My brethren was always furious with me for getting myself in trouble, wandering to close to others.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 08:27 PM

"Then you will stick by me until we find you a safe place." He stated, nearly a threat for her to question him. He patted Marda as the horse balked at some underbrush. He smiled gently.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 08:37 PM

I smile, leaning against you. "How strange to have a brother that speaks! What can I call you, then, brother?" I ask, letting my tired body relax against you.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 08:38 PM

"I am not your brother." He growled coldly. "To be family implies trust." He left it at that before quietly tacking "My name is Aeron."

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 08:43 PM

my smile fades away, I seem to dim slightly. "I know you are not him." I say quietly, turning to stare off at the trees as we continue. "He would tell me not to trust you too. Why can't you be trusted, Aeron?"

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 08:46 PM

He showed the symbol on the back of his glove, stitched into the leather. It mimicked a tattoo on his hands. The mark of a Silvent, a killer for silver. An assassin for higher. Their presence tended to be winked at by the authorities, if they did their jobs the way they were supposed to; silently. But the poorer of them swung from the gallows.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 08:48 PM

I stare at the mark, committing it to memory. "I don't know what that means, Aeron." I confess. "I've only ever been in the Kingswood. I don't know what markings mean to men."

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 08:53 PM

"People give me money to kill." He dropped his hand tattoo itching as if protesting his telling of his profession. "If you see it, you flee from now on. Even if their being nice. Don't take anything they give you."

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 09:01 PM

I regard you in silence for a time, again. I finally sigh quietly and lower my head. "Are there truly more whom I should fear? Can I trust any of them? Is there good left in the heart of man?" I ask as though they are simple things to answer, or as if they even have a simple answer.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 09:03 PM

"that isn't questions for me. I dont know about kindness." He said gently leading the horse out of the edge of Kingswood. He paused, seemingly for himself but he truly was giving her a moment.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 09:14 PM

I stare out of the wood, wide eyed with wonder and fear. I turn to look back, and for a moment, I consider running back into the safety of the trees. But it's not safe there, on my own. I look forward again, fear making me want to run. I sit up straight, my eyes flashing bright for a moment. "I am not afraid like him." I say quietly to myself. "I don't have to be."

the first thing I notice when you take me past the edge of Kingswood is the colors. They seem to be muted, less vibrant, as if it can't be as brilliant without the touch of Fae.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 09:27 PM

I watch the strange, muted landscape we pass though, taking in everything as fast as I can. I notice the air seems less fresh, almost stale. It makes my skin feel different, somehow. I can't see it, so I don't notice how the luminescent brilliance seems to fade off of me. The farther from Kingswood we go, the less I seem to be ethereal. By the time the glow is all but gone, my eyes have changed from gold to dark brown, and for the first time ever I look at the ground and don't see flowers nearby. "Is it dead here?" I ask curiously, not aware that I've changed at all

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 09:33 PM

"No. This is considered wild country." He took the hill down to the river bed, then to the bluff where the river had diverted. He hopped down off the horse beneath the stony outcrop which provided a stone ceiling above them. He pulled her off gently to the ground, tieing the horse up.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 09:48 PM

I poke around the hidden camp, never going far from you. It doesn't take long for me to explore the area under the stone ceiling. "What sort of place is this, Aeron?" I find a spot to sit, under the ceiling, and watch you curiously.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 10:00 PM

he was making a fire, having scraped out a fireplace in the soft stone. "The river flowed here long ago, before it moved to where it is. Carved out this little bluff. I can smell rain so i didn't want to camp in the open.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 10:03 PM

"what does rain smell like?" I ask, coming close to watch what you are doing. I squat right beside you, our thighs touching, and after a moment I start adding sticks to the unlit fire as well. "What are we doing this for?" I ask curiously.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 10:06 PM

"It is... soft. Like thunder." He quoted a childhood song, and picked up his Firestarter, tossing sparks as he struck the two metal pieces together, and bent to gently alight the coals. He cupped his hand over, blowing over the glowing tinder until the flames lit.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 10:27 PM

I watch with fascination, and laugh when the spark grows into a flame. "That was amazing!" I say. Reaching toward the dancing orange flames.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 10:28 PM

he grabbed her wrist incredulous. "Fire is hot. Don't touch it. You really are sheltered." He snorted tucking his firestarters into the saddlebags, pulling off his blankets to lay out on the ground.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 10:37 PM

I wait until you are preoccupied, then reach for the dancing flames again. I cry out as they bite me, falling back from the fire and cradling my hand, tears in my eyes as I stare at the fire fearfully. "But how can it bite?" I ask, turning my teary eyes toward you.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 10:41 PM

"God damn it." He sighed pulling a salve from his bag, smearing it across her hand even as it stung. "Listen to me when I tell you something. And it doesn't bite. Its just that way. You know when the forest is dry and you worry for lightning?" He asked then sighed when she stared blankly. "Ivak" he cussed rubbing his face. "Fire isn't alive. But it needs fuel to burn. It gets hot and burns what we put in it. Fire is dangerous. And don't put anything in it unless I say." He ordered sighing again.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 10:44 PM

"Thank you," I say, still eyeing the fire warily. "I will listen next time." I assure you, sincerely.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 10:46 PM

he continued laying out the blankets and motioned for her to sit there instead of the dirt. "I'm going down to take a bathe, stay and watch the fire. If you get bored go find sticks." He muttered, pulling a thin blanket and soft leather moccasins.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 10:50 PM

I wait a few minutes after you walk away, then quietly follow behind you, being careful not to be seen or heard, having genuinely forgotten about promising to listen.

Aeron BOT 21-Nov-21 10:52 PM

He stripped then waded into the deep and languid river, not really needing a bath to clean more so to relax. He sighed, carefully standing on the sandy bed beneath his toes and relaxed back into the water. It was cold, but refreshing after the constant heat of being sick. He let his head back to float in the water eyes closed.

Celeste BOT 21-Nov-21 10:56 PM

I see your pile of clothes, and you floating in the water. I quickly strip down and slip into the cold river, goosebumps spreading over my skin as I wade toward you. And unexpected drop-off dunks me under the surface with a loud splash. I resurface a little downstream, my feet finding purchase once more in the sand.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 06:59 AM

He cussed twisting then sighing. "I'm not helping you."

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 07:21 AM

he kept low in the water arms crossed. "I thought I said stay up there. Do you even know how to swim?"

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 07:45 AM

"helping me?" I ask innocently, eyes on you as I make my way closer. I don't stay low, unashamedly displaying full breasts with light nipples contracted by the cold. "I can swim!"

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 08:12 AM

He grit his teeth turning his back on her. "Well... stay over there then." He said scrubbing at his arms trying to get the nauseous feeling of sickness out of his skin.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 08:55 AM

I pause, content to watch you for a moment, even mimicking what you are doing, although trying not to draw attention to the fact that I'm doing it. After a little bit of that, I move closer. "Are you angry with me?" I ask with concern

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 09:09 AM

He slowed the motion for a moment before stating 'No.' And dragging his fingers through his dark hair. "More so, bothered. You'd die for a stranger. And I owe you now for it. I dislike debts."

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 09:16 AM

I watch your hands in your hair closely. I open and close my own hands, quietly coming closer. "You were sick, hurting. I got rid of the sickness. There is no debt owed. Why should I live while you die? All life is equally valuable..." My eyes find the mark on your hand and I fall quiet, lowering my eyes and blushing as if it were somehow obscene.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 09:18 AM

"Life is counted in lives..." he quoted gently then shook his head. "Well, dont do that anymore. Be selfish. Protect yourself." He sighed gently.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 09:27 AM

"I don't know how to." I say quietly, reaching toward you, my hand stopping just shy of touching your back.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 09:39 AM

"you'll learn or you'll die. Outside of Kingswood is as dangerous as inside." He sighed and waded toward the bank of the river. He grabbed the blanket and wrapped himself up as he walked out, his own nudity making himself uncomfortable around her. She acts like a veritable child. he dried his face.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 10:43 AM

smiling, I follow you out of the water. I step in the same drop off and dunk myself, emerging a few feet downstream to scramble back to the bank. I collapse on the grass, laughing and coughing. I seem completely oblivious to my own nudity.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 10:57 AM

clothes were dropped next to her, him standing nearby arms crossed and lookin away. "Get dressed. You can't be naked like that out here."

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 11:05 AM

I look at the clothes, then sit up and look at you. With a puzzled frown. I pick up the dress and start pulling it on. "But I was just doing what you did!"

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 11:50 AM

"And I got dressed." He growled softly and walked back for the fire.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 12:00 PM

He fed the flames, waiting for her to return. He knew she'd follow him but he needed to go hunt for dinner and didn't need her scaring prey.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 01:40 PM

I follow you back to the fire and watch, kneeling across the fire from you, as you feed the flames. I watch closely, following each piece of wood until It leaves your hand. I look at you with complete trust, waiting for your next instruction expectantly.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 01:47 PM

"Stay. And I mean it. Or ill put your hand in the damn fire." He pointed to where she sat, picking up his trap and knife. "I'm going hunting."

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 01:51 PM

I nod my understanding, standing to go over to the bedroom you'd laid out and sit on it. "I won't move!" I say with confidence.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 02:01 PM

He walked into the woods, smelling for rabbit warrens and set up his trap once he found one, and began digging at the Warrens air shaft, scaring them out. One of the rabbits screamed as the snare grabbed it around the back legs. He picked it up, a hand on the back of its neck and carried the squirming thing back. He held up the frightened thing. "I'll teach you how to butcher it. You need to learn." He said gently.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 03:15 PM

my face pales as you bring the rabbit back. I press my hands over my ears, a pained expression on my face, then can't stop myself any longer. I fly toward you, grabbing the rabbit and cradling it in my arms. Then moment I hold it, it stops screaming. Stops fighting. Becomes calm and still. Tears fall on the soft fur, soaking the animal as I turn and face you with it hugged to my chest. I stare defiantly at you, then hold out the complacent animal. It stays calm as I set it in your hand gently. "She doesn't have to be hurt and terrified. I...I know we must eat, but it doesn't have to be terrified." I stammer, wiping my face with my arm. I look up at you, obviously deeply upset by this event. A glint of gold flashes in my eye, then I turn back to the rabbit, my hands balled in fists at my sides. The rabbit seems content to be in your hand, sniffing curiously at your glove. I watch, as prepared as I can be for what I know you are going to do.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 03:24 PM

"you cannot save every creature if I take you to town." He growled, grabbing the back of its head to tip it 90 degrees and its back legs, stretching its body then pushing it beyond with a jerk, cracking its neck and killing it immediately. He hung it by its back legs and cut the fur at its hocks, pulling its fur inside out and off the body. Its head came with it, easy and quick. "If I am to take care of you, you need to stone yourself. You will see starving. You will see death." He said coldly, having clearly learned this young. He slit the carcasses stomach pouch. "Best we can do for it is use everything. The brains can tan hide or be eaten. The offal is edible. The blood used in mash. The meat eaten cooked or dried." He set each of the pieces on a flag of stone to cook and the hide nearby.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 03:38 PM

I watch, a slightly sick look on my face. I listen to every word closely, hanging on to your words like you speak salvation. I don't say another word the whole time, though after a bit I go sit on the bedroll, arms wrapped tightly around myself, staring into the fire.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 03:40 PM

he cooked the meat splitting it into portions, seemingly uncaring for her discomfort. Its the only way he was able to teach.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 03:50 PM

"I've never eaten meat." I finally say, "I've never seen something killed like that. I've seen wolves take down a deer. That wasn't like that." I turn to you, eyes searching your face for something unnameable, something hidden. Something to make it easier to accept that something must die for us to live.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 04:01 PM

"We can't survive the cold season without meat. You can go search out your own food if you desire. This will last us a few days." He said, smoking the meat.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 04:09 PM

I shake my head vehemently. "I w...want to try it. I want to learn what you teach me." I come over to you, sanding close and watching. A terrible thought occurs to me, causing me to flinch away from you and cry out, covering my mouth with my hands. "Aeron, you won't do this to the mare will you?" My eyes fill with tears as I stare at you in shock.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 04:11 PM

"Of course not. Calm yourself. I've had Marda since she was a foal." He said gently giving her a small piece of the meat and holding out a wine skin

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 04:35 PM

I visibly relax, then take the meat and examine it closely. I squish it between my fingers, pull it apart a bit, sniff it. Everything but eat it. After stalling as long as I can, I put some in my mouth and chew it carefully. I look at, wide eyed, and take another bite. Then another, beginning to smile.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 04:37 PM

"seeee... good." He laughed, "savor it because its not as good dried." He murmured.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 05:39 PM

I freeze, looking up at you with surprise. I finish the meat in my mouth, then grin, lighting up my whole face. My smile doesn't fade, I watch you closely as I reach for the wineskin. I take a drink, not paying attention, and my face changes rapidly. I look like I might be sick, and frantically look around, even getting up, turning as I look for something. Finally, with a muffled groan, I swallow the large mouthful of wine and gag forcefully. "What-!!" I exclaim, turning to you, my tone offended

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 05:42 PM

he downed a large mouthful of it, flicking his eyebrows and sat back against the stone wall behind him. "I'm going to sleep."

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 05:53 PM

I stare for a moment, then silently walk over to you and lay down beside you, curled up with my head against your leg.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 05:58 PM

He froze for a moment before draping the blanket over her, still keeping his back to the wall. He closed his eyes silently relaxing.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 07:16 PM

I fall asleep quietly, resting beside you

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 07:18 PM

he closed his eyes, a hand on her hair gently and he fell asleep, slid sideways slightly. She woke to him laying sideways, the fire burnt to coals.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 08:16 PM

I wake up cold and move close to you, pulling the blanket over both of us. Unable to go back to sleep, I abandon the blanket, tucking it around you, and quietly go over to the fire. I use a stick to prod the coals, feeling the heat coming off of them. When the stick catches on fire I drop it in surprise. It lands on the coals and burns up fairly quickly. Then, feeling quite clever, I collect more sticks and food have a small fire burning in the pit.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 08:26 PM

he blinked awake after a while with a quiet groan. Hed drank too much wine. He rubbed his eye on the heel of his hand pushing himself up. "Thank you for getting the fire up."

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 08:34 PM

I jump when you make noise, falling on mu butt beside the fire where I'd been squatting. You thank me and I grin so big I literally glow "It was easy!"

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 08:35 PM

"Just be careful and only burn sticks." He grunted walking past heading for the river to piss. He groaned softly at the headache pounding behind his eyes.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 08:44 PM

I watch you walk past, wondering why you are suffering. I silently follow you, walking up behind you while you piss. I gently lay my hands on your temples and instantly you feel soothing waves of relief, all through your body. Aches from sleeping on the ground, in the cold, tension in your muscles from the headache, even the dull ache from your liver and kidneys are soothed.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 08:46 PM

He jerked and quickly buttoned his pants, unable to help himself from laughing looking backwards at her. "This is another one of those things you shouldn't do. People don't like being stuck up on while they fuckin piss." He laughed removing her hands from his head.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 08:48 PM

"but ...you hurt..." I say, confused. "I didn't think you wanted to hurt?"

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 08:51 PM

"And that is fine you just need to give me privacy too." He snorted and walked with her back to the fire. "Some people do not like others by them while they use the restroom." He laughed softly shaking his head. "I can deal with a hangover, I'm fine."

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 08:53 PM

"privacy?" I ask, "being alone? But nobody else is here, you have that!"

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 08:55 PM

"you count as a person. And therefore interrupt my privacy." He snorted softly debating why he was trying to explain this.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 09:10 PM

I blink, frowning, and open my mouth as if to speak, but close it again without a word. I struggle to comprehend myself as a single entity. "I'm not....I mean, I cant...." The harder I try, the more frustrated and hopelessly alone I feel. I take a shuddering breath, moving back from you a step. Tears well up in my eyes, but I scrub them away before they fall. "That doesn't make sense!" I finally burst out, stamping my foot firmly, twice.

Aeron BOT 22-Nov-21 09:12 PM

He stared at her crying unsure why she was, then suddenly hugged her, holding her close to him. "I didn't mean to upset you. " he murmured whiping her cheeks dry.

Celeste BOT 22-Nov-21 09:16 PM

I stand in your embrace, leaning into you, taking what healing I can get from you. "I need this." I say simply. "I need you."

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 06:57 AM

"I'm right here.." he held her gently, a hand in her hair and the other around her waist

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 02:29 PM

I give no protest, and as you hold me a faint glow comes off of me. Hardly visible in daylight, until I turn my head up to look at you. Then my eyes flash golden, bright as a coin, no hint of the dark brown they'd become when I left Kingswood. I smile at you, pressing myself against you firmly and tucking my head back down to your shoulder. "I'm sorry I got angry." I say quietly, hoping you don't let go of me to quickly.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 02:43 PM

"I need to remember you're new to all of this." He smiled gently a hand gently running over her hair. "Its alot to have suddenly shoved into you." He eventually let go. "Can you pack the blankets. Roll them up for me?" He asked and took down the hanging rabbit pieces to wrap up in an oilskin, and saddling Marda. He'd have to stop in a town for supplies soon but what would he do about her? He couldn't leave her outside alone...

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 03:02 PM

thrilled to be given a task, I retrieve the blankets and, after a failed attempt or two, manage to produce a fairly neat roll that I proudly present to you. "What else can I help with?" I ask eagerly, wanting to be usefull.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 03:05 PM

He picked her up, putting her on the horse before stepping up behind her. He tied the blankets to the saddle and clicked to Marda, legs pressed into her to keep her from sliding.

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 04:10 PM

"why do you use this?" I ask, indicating the saddle, "the mare would be much more comfortable without it." I pout as I realize I can't even lay forward to put my arms around her, but it dissappears as soon as I lean back against you. I wiggle myself tight against you, smiling with satisfaction. When I turn to look up at you I can't resist pressing my lips just under your jaw in a spontaneous show of affection. "You make me feel good, Aeron!" I announce, turning forward once more.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 04:12 PM

he blinked staring at her, half squinting. Then murmured "all right then" taking the reigns. He led the horse down to a main roadway, silently leaned back in the saddle.

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 04:17 PM

I watch with fascination as we go down the road. Everything is a source of awe, from the run down farmhouse to the litter we occasionally pass. But when I hear the steady clip-clop of another horse I shine back against you. My heart races and I nervously grip your thigh, twisting to look around anxiously. "Should we go off the road?" I ask, everything in me telling me to run, hide, and not be seen.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 04:23 PM

"We get faster times on the road. Just sit forwards and try to relax." He reassured gently, and pulled up the hood attached to her dress. Her ears and hair would be a give away and he didn't need to deal with slavers right now. He kept his thoughts to himself, listening to the other traveler approach. Probably no one but best to be prepared.

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 04:28 PM

I put genuine effort into relaxing, but every time you move or shift, I flinch. If I were on the ground I'd have bolted long before the other rider could have seen me. I pant quietly, my heart beating so fast and hard you can feel it. My hands both grip into your thighs, fingers digging in so hard my nails would have gone through if not for your pants. I radiate tension, frozen in place by my inability to give in to my flight instinct. And we haven't even seen the other rider yet.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 05:15 PM

He gently loosened her grip on his legs and holding them, the rider passing without issue or even a glance. He chuckled gently in her ear. "Told you. Wasn't anything to worry about."

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 05:20 PM

I blush, gradually relaxing at your calm tone. I sit back against you once more and, letting my head rest on your chest, and quietly enjoy being close to you as the landscape goes by. An astute observer would see a very faint luminescence, but they would have to be actively searching for it. "Where are we going?" I ask after a few more miles have passed.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 05:23 PM

"There's a little village nearby. I need to get some supplies since there's two of us now. And can you control the glowing?" He chuckled running a finger across her hand.

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 05:29 PM

"glowing?" My eyes trace the line you drew across the back of my hand. I like when you touch me, I realize. With that realization the glow brightens. For the first time, I actually notice it. "I-!! Wow! I didn't know I did that!" I exclaim, holding my hands up and examining them. "How do I stop?" The fact that we are nearing a village doesn't quite register as I stare at my hands and marvel at the pearlescent luminescence.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 05:31 PM

"Why you asking me?! I dont glow." He laughed, and held her hands gently smiling. "Its pretty , but we need to not draw attention."

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 05:46 PM

"I'll try." I say, closing my eyes. I don't have any idea how to stop. I try focusing on something dark, like the Kingswood glade at night. When I open my eyes my hands seem to glow even brighter. I frown. "That didn't work!" I mutter, then close my eyes again. Maybe something cold? Like the river, yesterday, when I was swimming with you. After a few minutes I turn up towards you, eyes still closed, and rest my cheek against your neck. "Tell me if it works?" I ask. As I ask, the light intensifies. The grass near us seems to sway slightly and become more green.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 05:54 PM

"Remember when I walked through shadow? That cold? The gentle cold like that. Think of that."

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 06:09 PM

thinking of that incident sends a foreboding through my mind. That place, that shadow, nobody like me belongs in that place. I remember how ill I had been, and my brethren turning away after giving me life. These thoughts cause the luminescence to reduce, then dissappear entirely.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 06:12 PM

He grinned. "Look. You did it." He laughed softly and hugged her gently. He couldn't help but be snuggly to her. She was just too much.

Celeste BOT 23-Nov-21 06:16 PM

I open my eyes, pleased and dismayed about having succeeded. Then I realize there are houses just ahead, and people going about their business here and there. I gasp, cover my face with my hands, and moan quietly. "Oh! I can't Aeron! They will see me!" I say fearfully, the village having completely caught me by surprise.

Aeron BOT 23-Nov-21 06:22 PM

"I'm with you. If you're frightened I can set you up outside so you can wait for me?" He offered softly looking at her in concern.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 02:09 AM

"no, I go with you!" I say, sounding almost frantic. Then I pause, growing still and quiet. "Or...is this for privacy? I ask quietly, frowning as I try to figure things out. "I...I can...I will be OK, ill stay with Marda." My quiet tone, downcast eyes, and tension all scream that I don't want to do it. I take a deep breath and sit up a bit straighter, stubbornly setting my mind.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 07:02 AM

"so you want to come or no." He laughed confused by her sudden babbling. He hugged her again, burying his face into her neck.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 11:08 AM

my eyes go wide, I wrap my arms around over the top of yours and lean my head back, tilting to the side, as I sigh with content. This closeness feels good! "If you want me to go with you, I want to be with you. But if this is something for privacy, like you said before, I can wait outside." I say, letting my head rest back onto you and turning towards you. Suddenly I twist in your arms to wrap mine around you, holding you back as tight as you I hold me, my own face buried in your neck. I begin to glow again, and it rapidly gets brighter.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 11:20 AM

He let himself relax, cooling her glow with his own shadow with a quiet purr. He clicked to Marda again, continuing on towards the small village. It had been one he visited often, them knowing his horse and mask. He left his mask off and hanging at his shoulder. It was more a collection of farms with an inner square and a house they used as an inn. He got off the horse and helped her down. "We have to walk in."

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 11:30 AM

I slide down off the horse, clutching your hand. I don't let go. I peek out from under my hood, obviously terrified but curiosity just as intense. I want to run, but you don't, and If you have no fear, I must not either. The buildings fascinate me. I tip my head back to gaze up at the one you walk toward in awe, raising my free hand to keep my hood in place. The gentle tug at my hand as you keep walking has me return my attention to you. I don't say anything, just grip your hand tighter.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 11:50 AM

He chuckled softly at her astonishment for simple farm houses that slouched with age. He tied Marda to the post at the edge of the market square and led through the simple short gate. The food here wasn't varied, but it was simple and hardy stuff. He looked over the small amount of options, picking up several and paying with coin. He held out his bag to Celeste, filling it with vegetable and fruit.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 12:01 PM

I hesitate, then slowly release your hand and take the bag. I stay close, keeping on your heels, shying away from people and not saying a word.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 12:09 PM

They greeted him by name, and he would nod greetings to the few people who did say hello. Several stared at her for being in his company but didn't say anything. Aeron smiled gently to her. "See? Nothing to worry. This place is real calm." He smiled, taking the bag from her to toss over his shoulder.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 12:59 PM

I look around, unaware that my fearful behavior is drawing attention. I notice people stare, but nobody says anything, except for an occasional polite greeting from those who were friendly enough. Watching you, comfortable in this environment, helps me more than anything. I gradually start to relax, and look around more. "Aeron, I don't think I have to fear people like my brother!" I observe quietly, warming up more to the idea.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 01:06 PM

"No. You don't. But we still need to be careful okay?" He smiled softly. "People do not care for Fae." He explained. "Here, they put up with us. But in the bigger cities they won't be friendly."

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 01:09 PM

my eyes widen as I look up at you, my hood falling back a bit. "Are we going to a city, Aeron!" I ask, fearful anticipation obvious as I grab your hand and clutch it to my chest, excitement winning out over fear. I start glowing, just barely. "Oh, I've always wanted to see a city!" I moan wistfully, eyes sparkling and hopeful

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 01:22 PM

"My guild master is in a city to the south." He smiled and brushed under her chin, ignoring one of the farmers eyebrow raise. He shot him a look, and the farmer laughed. "See you found yourself a woman finally, Aeron." "I haven't. Shush yourself." "You sure there fae boy?" Aeron half growled snorting picking up the package of meat from the crushed bits of ice they pulled from the frosted water barrels.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 01:26 PM

I look from the man, back to you, frowning. "But I am a woman, Aeron, you have found me?" I say, watching you select packages.

"can I help with anything?" I ask, seeing how much you are carrying

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 01:38 PM

"Hes making fun of us." He laughed softly holding out a new pair of boots for her. "Put these on." He ordered gently seeing if they'd fit her.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 02:54 PM

I look at the boots, frowning for a moment, then take them and sit down where I stand to pull them on my feet. They hug my feet comfortably, but feel strange when I try to walk. I walk around awkwardly, then laugh at my own silliness before rushing back to your side, my footsteps heavier and chunkier, making more noise moving than I ever have. I laugh again, certain I look like a foal or a fawn trying to take their first steps.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 03:42 PM

he smiled softly, attempting to not audibly laugh at her. He paid the seamstress, and pulled on his new cloak since she had been wearing his old one. Foodstuffs in hand he led the way back to Marda, watching her toddle about in her boots. "I need to head to my guild. Its going to be alot of traveling so prep yourself." He tied the burlaps to Marda's saddle sighing

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 03:54 PM

I look up at your words, then look around, then look at myself. "I...I am ready." I say, then, as you secure the bundle, I quickly dart to the horse and boost myself into the saddle in one smooth motion. I land on the saddle hard, however, and cringe at the pain in my rear. "Oh! Ow! This thing is awful! Poor Marda!" I grumble, rubbing my injured rear end tenderly.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 04:32 PM

he laughed gently. "Thats why I put blankets under. She's bred for this rough travel." He reassured patting the beasts neck.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 06:25 PM

I eye the saddle dubiously, but the horse seems unperturbed, so I shrug it off.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 06:28 PM

He pulled himself up into the saddle careful not to smoosh her uncomfortably, clicking to Marda.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 06:48 PM

I relax back against you, smiling to myself, and start to glow as we head out. My hands rest on your thighs, my head tucked just under your chin, resting against your shoulder. "Aeron, this is nice. Is this what you always do?" I ask, watching the countryside as we pass by.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 06:55 PM

"No. I work too." work... he kills. "travel and work are my life."

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 07:02 PM

I suddenly put my hand on your arm, running my hand down your arm to wrap my fingers over yours, holding the reigns. I don't seem inclined to remover my hand, following every movement you make. After a few miles of this I sigh happily. "Aeron, this will be fun! I think I will enjoy being with you. It won't be terrible like my brother said. Nobody has tried to kill me at all, and he said they all would."

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 07:09 PM

"You just have to be safe. When I work, I have to leave you behind. I'm going to teach you to fight but I have to be sure you're safe." He explained gently. He felt his heart twist with worry. For some reason, whether in his understanding or not, he did care for her.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 07:12 PM

"but...I can't be left behind! I need you, Aaron!" My distress is clear. I radiate anxiety. "I can't be left behind! I can't!" You can hear the tears threatening to spill in my voice.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 08:41 PM

"hey hey..." he said tipping her chin to look back at him. "I'll always come back. And I'll always be near. I just cannot take you with me."

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 08:47 PM

"but I don't...I mean, I can't..." I struggle to explain that I've never been alone, never been without my brethren. The unicorn was as much a part of me as my hand, and now I don't have him. Now I have you. "If...i must be left...I will stay. But..." I lower my head, drooping dejectedly

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 08:49 PM

"I'll show you how to help, okay? I just..." I can't kill in front of you... he said in his head whiping her cheek with a thumb face gentle. "Its alright. I promise."

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 09:26 PM

"I trust you, Aeron." I catch your hand and press it to my face, taking comfort in your touch. I take a breath and sigh, turning back to the countryside, leaning against you once more, and keeping your hand cradled to me, my fingers laced through yours

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 09:36 PM

He didn't move his hands, letting her hold them. His head lolled forward gently, and he sighed rubbing his face on his shoulder. "Mn"

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 09:49 PM

I glow. Not just a little, either. The grasses nearby rustle and whisper, everything my light reaches comes alive. I tilt my head slightly, enjoying your affectionate gesture more than I could express. My heart soars with happiness. I smile, then grin. I tilt my head back, leaving you more room as my head rests against you. "This is good, I know it is."

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 10:17 PM

He smiled gently burying his face in her shoulder. He was suddenly wanting a nap. He groaned softly in contentment.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 10:27 PM

I feel you grow heavier on my back and shoulder. I reach up to lay my hand on your head. I feel...something wrong. Some hurt. Something that never healed. Frowning, I focus, searching for it. It's old, something injured so long ago you just live with it. It isn't painful anymore. It doesn't affect you anymore. But it does, I can tell it does! When I find the injury I freeze, shocked. Aeron cannot...see?! How can he do everything he does? How could he walk through the town, or start a fire? How could he... Old injuries are difficult to heal. But I can't just ignore it. I have to try. So I pour myself into healing it. As Ido so, I glow brighter and brighter. I can feel the tissues shifting, reforming, trying to knit back together the way they belong.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 10:32 PM

He quickly grabbed her wrists, jerking away in pain and blinked grunting. "Dont... don't do that. That hurt like hell." He rubbed the heel of his hands into his eyes

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 10:36 PM

"no, don't stop me!" I pull away, twisting in the saddle to place both hands upon your head. "I know I can do it! Don't open them, not yet!" I insist, struggling against you to keep my hands on you, to keep the natural magic going. I sound almost frantic, insistent.

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 10:40 PM

he kept her hands off of him, "please stop. I dont want this." He said gently. She hadn't thought about the fact he may not want to see like she did. That he had been this way his entire life.

Celeste BOT 24-Nov-21 10:45 PM

"you cannot see! Why didn't you tell me? You...you don't know what I look like? I want you to see me, Aeron, I need you to see me, to see everything I see, I want to show you all the beautiful, wonderful things around you!" I plead, trying to free myself from your grip

Aeron BOT 24-Nov-21 10:54 PM

"I see. Just not like you do. I see your glow. Your movement. I feel your skin. Your face." He said softly, pressing his hands into her cheeks and ran his thumbs over her cheekbones. "Close your eyes." He asked gently, shifting her in the saddle so her back was to his chest again and put his arms around her. He waited until she listened to him and closed her eyes. She felt the air around her, heard the world, and felt the shadows that flowed within. The dark that clung to everything. Where she saw sunlight, he saw the dark. Her hair blew across his face as the wind shifted, and she would see the ripples it made. Movement was like a stone in a pond, sending wrinkles that showed in his mind. But she glowed like a star, the only thing that had visible light. "I see. Just not like you." She realized it was similar to her ability to sense magic.

Celeste BOT 25-Nov-21 10:30 AM

I look through your eyes and see all that is dark. I grow calm, still. I don't know how this is accomplished, this borrowing of sight. But I am familiar with it. Only, when my brethren and I shared our eyes, it was as if we saw through our own eyes. It was as though we shared bodies, and the eyes were all that remained the same. I was familiar with the practice, even if I knew nothing of how it was done. I knew it could work both ways. I could give you my own eyes, to use. I could show you what I saw. "Now, close your eyes, Aeron. I would show you light." For a moment I think you will refuse. But your eyes close, and I open mine, and you see as I see. The gliiering flash of life, all around, in every thing that lives. Even the dirt itself flashes and sparkles with life. The air seems alive with sparks of glitter. The plants each have it moving within. All around is life, with the world like a pale, washed out overlay. Even marda has ribbons of glitter flowing all through her body. As do I, when I look at my hands. only the moving lines of life that extend out from my own skin into the air. I don't turn toward you, not wanting you to see yourself as I see you.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 07:06 AM

his eyes half fluttered, confused but enjoying the sight. He smiled softly and hugged her gently purring. Keeping his hands out of sight, he purred into her neck. "Thank you for showing me. But I need my sight for my work. It is why I am good at my job." He explained quietly.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 07:23 AM

I close my eyes and return you to yours. I frown, my hands ringing yours wrapped around my waist. I hug your arms to me tightly, sighing with resignation. "I don't want you to work. I don't want you to become darker, Aeron. I need you. I don't have anybody else. I will do anything you ask, I will take care of you, I will do anything I have to!" I don't sound tearful, just determined.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 07:34 AM

he chuckled softly petting her cheek with the back of his fingers. "I still owe my guild.bi have to repay or they'll hurt me." He said gently, keeping her upright as Marda had to descend a hill in the road. "8 more."

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 08:51 AM

a sharp inhale and shaky sigh as I lean into your touch is my only response. I want you to stop, to protect the life that's still in you, fighting the shadow that consumes you. The life that has grown stronger since I first healed you.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 08:59 AM

"itll be alright." He smiled softly trying to reassure her. He was in his memories, thinking of when he had joined the guild. Just a little boy being purchased from a prison. He'd been told he'd rather have swung from the gallows. The guild were notoriously harsh to their criminal slaves. Except for the fact a six year old boy had downed two of their assassins before breakfast.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 09:06 AM

"Aeron, I have to piss!" I say, remembering the word you'd used before. I squirm a bit in your lap, ready to hop down the moment the horse stops- or before, if I have to.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 09:16 AM

he couldn't help but snort, pointing to the forests edge and waiting for hers at the roads edge, penning a small letter to his guild to explain his absence. His master had known of his illness, keeping it secret from the rest.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 09:36 AM

I slip to the ground and dart toward the trees, stepping just behind a tree to relieve myself. I hear a branch crack, and instantly bolt, a scream already begun when a hand clamps over my mouth, rough hands wrench my arm behind my back. I struggle, kicking out at my attackers, two men who laughed and pulled harder on my arm until it felt like my shoulder would pull apart. He dragged me back into the woods further. I bit his hand over my mouth, letting out a scream that only lasted a second before I was slapped so hard my ears ring. My hood is pulled back, and more laughter comes from the two men. "It's just a fae bitch, nobody will miss you. We get to have some fun!" The one behind me, holding my arm, growls in my ear, then licks up the side of my neck. I struggle harder, but he wrenches my arm harder, making tears spring to my eyes, and does me to the ground, pinning me with a knee on my back.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 09:42 AM

Aeron snarled leaping off the horse after her, pulling his mask over his face. It had been enchanted for him, allowing him to see farther and clearer while concealing his identity. He caught a glimpse of movement and shadow stepped nearby, all the while poisoning his knife with a vial from his belt.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 09:48 AM

I feel hands on my thighs, roughly gripping my skin, bruising me, and cry out, only to be slapped again. I can't get my feet under me, or kick, pinned on my stomach. When the rough hand moves higher up my leg, though, I find renewed strength and try to push against the ground to turn over. My arm is wrenched harder, making my vision waver as I hear a popping sound and nauseating pain washes over me.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 09:54 AM

He slammed the blade through ones throat, puncturing through the other side with a spray of blood and dropped him aside. "Pray to your gods they have mercy for I have none." He said softly, the voice amplified through his mask and lowered. He looked at the other two, spinning the blade in his hands.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 10:27 AM

I feel the warm spray of blood across my back as my arm is wrenched again, resulting in another pop from my shoulder that makes me scream until I'm slapped again. One man runs, recklessly barreling through the undergrowth. The one on me produces a long hunting knife and digs the tip into my side, under the arm he is dislocating. "Get the fuck out of here or she dies!" He snarls, twisting the knife so I cry out again, a small red spot spreading on the white fabric of my dress around the point of the knife.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 10:42 AM

He smiled as the man would find his muscles going limp as he ran and Aeron held up his hands as he saw the situation with the remaining. "What do you want? Money?"

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 11:12 AM

"I want to fuck this fae bitch while she cries!" The man laughs, "ain't nothing wrong with doing what I want to a monster from the Kingswood, might even get me a few friends To enjoy her too." He looks down and spits on me. He shifts his grip on my arm and I cry out weakly as my shoulder protests. "Please stop! It hurts!" I sob, not struggling anymore. I can't turn my head to see who he is talking to, and your voice sounds different, but I know it's you, I know you'll make him stop just as surely as I know it's you.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 11:37 AM

"If you can kill me, then you can. I am not armed. Easy challenge, yes?" He held his hands out to his sides, hoping the man will turn the knife on him. He couldn't shut the man down fast enough. He could get the blade in her heart before he could.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 01:16 PM

I whimper, trying not to move or make a sound. I can't help the little whines that escape as I pant. The man's knee digs painfully into my spine, the knife tip slowly moving deeper with every movement or breath. But the pain in my shoulder is the most excruciating. But even that pales against the fear that grips me at your statement. "What are you going on about, I've got the bitch, I don't need your permission." With that he backs the blade off, then removes his knee from my back. He moves to a crouch and hauls up on me, trying to pull me up as he stands. My shoulder gives a final effort to hold together, then makes a sickening sound as it dislocates. I scream, then black out, taking the man by surprise. He drops me, letting go of my arm before more damage is done. "Fuck!" He exclaims, turning his knife on you.

Vampire-Nerd 26-Nov-21 01:21 PM

He growled as she dropped wincing beneath the mask in sympathy. He knew that pain. "Come on then you bastard." He offered. He was a small man in comparison. "Or do you not have the cock for it, eh? Worried I'll win?

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 01:23 PM

without hesitation he lunges with the knife, trying to slash across your stomach to eviscerated you.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 01:27 PM

He blocked it with the armored plating on his forearm, putting a dart from his glove into the man's throat. 25 seconds and he was on the ground drowning in blood. He shook out his aching arm and went to Celeste, quickly resetting her arm while she was blacked out.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 01:34 PM

I wake up as my shoulder is moved, long enough to see the masked face of the person helping me, and wail pitifully, before unconsciousness claims me again. But even unconscious, my body begins healing itself rapidly once the bone is back in place. Muscle shifts visibly under the skin as it returns to its correct position. I toss and whimper, but stay mercifully unaware of it all. Not until it slows, then stops, do I open my eyes again. I look at you, then look around, spotting the two bodies immediately. My eyes fill with tears and I curl up around myself to quietly cry. "What did I do? Why did they want to hurt me?"

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 01:37 PM

He picked her up gently, taking off his mask. "Remember when I said we need to be careful? That it's dangerous for fae?" He said gently. "People do not like us."

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 01:41 PM

I nod, doing my best to stiffle my tears. I hold tight to you, greatful to be able to see your face. The mask is, to my mind, the part of you that kills. When I see your face I can't help pulling myself close and touching my forehead to yours.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 01:49 PM

he wiped her cheeks clean, and took her back to Marda, taking the reigns. He kept walking, still holding her. "Lets stop for tonight. Okay?"

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 02:14 PM

I nod, content to stay in your arms. I rest my head on your shoulder and stay quiet, just holding on and being close. I start to glow, just slightly, and sigh with content after a very short distance. "I forgive them. Whatever their reason for being like that to me, they were doing what they felt they had to do. I wish they didn't have to die." I say solemnly.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 02:28 PM

"they wanted to hurt you. And would've. You can't just excuse that." He said quietly as he led the horse to the road side. "Will you help me collect wood please?"

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 02:53 PM

"Yes, Thank you!" I say, grateful to be able to help. I quickly being wandering toward the woods, but stop and stare, on high alert. "Aeron, didn't one of them run away?" I ask quietly, staring at the woods.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 03:06 PM

He looked up making a soft noise and got up following her in. "I'll be near." He murmured, looking for specific plants. "I need to pick up more darts again..."

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 03:22 PM

"okay, I'll be careful, too." I crouch down as I near the wood, and in moments I'm gone. One blink, that's all, and I've disappeared. Staying out of sight is how I've lived my whole life. Always keeping hidden, always leaving no trace. It's instinctive, and easy to slip back into. I take my time, collecting branches and logs one at a time until I've got a decent pile gathered. Then, after some careful arranging, I start to drag them back toward Marda. I have faith that you are near, even if I can't see you. Not seeing you means I'm hiding sufficiently. My brethren and I often did not see each other all day, just knowing the other was near, and finding each other at dark.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 03:27 PM

he walked up nearby, significantly louder than her. But then again it made sense. He tripped over stationary objects and overall took things slower. He sat down nearby and taught her how to dig a firepit and light a flame with his firestarter, all the while making mush of leaves with a mortar and pestle. He collected the faint green liquid. "Is your side and arm injured still? Sore?"

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 03:32 PM

I consider a moment, moving my arm experimentally. "More stiff than sore. Like it doesn't want to be moved." I conclude, "I think the new, healed muscle just isn't used to being used yet." I'd been fortunate to have never suffer an injury that displaced part of my skeleto-muscular system before. I could rapidly heal most injuries, but if a bone needed to be set, it had to be done, and done quickly, or it would heal in whatever position it was in.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 03:38 PM

he patted the ground in front of him, motioning for her to sit. He silently moved the arm of her dress, pouring a bit of the liquid he had acquired over her shoulder. He massaged the muscles carefully, and from the knowledge of his touch he knew what ones would be hurting. The liquid soothed the heat in her arm.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 03:48 PM

"that feels amazing Aeron!" I moan, relaxing into your touch. "I didn't know hands could feel that good!" While I had never been alone, I'd only ever had the unicorn as my companion, that I could remember. He never shied away from my touch, but was only capable of so much on his own.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 04:34 PM

He smiled softly. "Better ya?" He asked as he retied the back of her dress. He was careful, like she was glass.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 04:45 PM

I turn around throw my arms around you, glowing bright as I smile. "You are so nice to me!" I say, turning my head to bury my face in your neck. "I hope we will always be together. I don't feel so afraid with you. You can teach me, and protect me, and keep me close. And I will..." I stop, sitting up to look at you through my eyelashes. "I will..." I frown sitting back again. "Oh, what will I do for you Aeron? I dont...I don't know anything at all about being outside of Kingswood. How can I help you?" I ask quietly, feeling like a burden. "I don't mean to just make more work for you. I want to help." This concept has never occurred to me before. It does now, though, and is unsettling. I have nothing to offer that is equivalent to how much you mean to me.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 05:12 PM

"Aeron, you love me, don't you?" I ask, looking up at you with sincerity, frowning slightly with worry. "I think you do, because you came back for me, but... you know I love you, right?" These are things I've taken for granted, but now I wonder if you do know. I would follow you to the ends of the earth, the gates of hell and back again. I only have love for you. I can tell you haven't had much love before, and need mine.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 07:04 PM

He sighed softly rubbing the back of his neck. "You do enough for me." He pushed himself up gently with a sigh to pull food from the saddlebags. He sat back down slicing up some fruit. "Its not a matter of paying me."

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 07:25 PM

I watch the fruit in your hands, still sitting where you left me. I meet your eyes, mine wide with hopeful desire. "Can...can I have some?" I ask, eyes flicking from the fruit to your eyes and back.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 07:33 PM

he blatantly ignored her question of love. Love was not a necessity, hed been taught. He passed half of the apple and cubed the rest to pan cook with the small cubes of meat.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 07:37 PM

"Thank you!" I cradle the apple in my hands for a moment, then crunch into it with obvious delight. I eat the whole apple, core and all, and lick my fingers when I'm finished. "I love apples!" I say with a contented sigh, my question from before forgotten. I move over closer to you and lean against you, watching you cook. "I've never had a cooked apple." I inhale the savory scent of the meat and fruit, humming with appreciation. "It smells wonderful!"

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 07:45 PM

He purred softly smiling, giving her half of a pear and cubeing the other into the pan. He smiled gently covering the pan in a metal lid. "You let it steam and the meat just melts."

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 07:52 PM

I scoot closer as you cover the pan, putting myself as much in your space as I can, munching away at the pear. When it's gone I stare at my hands, a bit let down that I don't have any more. I look up at you and smile brightly again. "Once I found a pear tree and ate so many pears I had a stomach ache!" I laugh, then just make myself comfortable on you. My head rests against your shoulder, and one hand girls your shirt, as if I were afraid you'd leave if I let go. I watch the fire, and watch you cooking, and don't say anything else until you announce the food is done. I am hesitant about the meat still, but when I try it, my enjoyment is clear. "Aeron it's soo delicious!" I exclaim, mouth full and another bite halfway there.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 07:57 PM

He ate, holding the pan carefully. He smiled softly "I once ate so many tomatoes I threw up on my guild master. His robes were stained pink for years." He laughed gently and pulled the blanket up over his shoulder.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 08:26 PM

He let her eat the rest, not able to stomach anymore. He was worried he'd be punished by the guild. It took years for him to be a 'faceless'. The masks were assigned facial features, and the less there were the higher their class within the guild. "You may have this. I can't eat anymore."

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 08:32 PM

I eat happily, seemingly possessed of an endless appetite. But your stress is easy to read, and I curl myself back into your arms as soon as I finish. Tension pours off of you. "Are you OK, Aeron? Is something wrong?" I ask, reaching up to gently caress your face.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 08:37 PM

"I have to talk to my guild master and I don't want to. He was angry about me taking time to heal when I was sick." He explained softly an arm around around her waist. "I know I have too many contracts waiting."

Natalie BOT 26-Nov-21 08:42 PM

I think carefully about what you just told me, then sigh softly, my eyes dropping to the ground. A moment later I turn my head back up and nuzzle into your neck, reaching up to caress your face. "It will be okay. I'm sure you can talk to him and work something out. Maybe you'll get kicked out, that wouldn't be so bad." I say, sounding hopeful. My lips brush against your skin as I talk, lightly, like butterfly wings, tickling.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 08:48 PM

He flushed gently, rubbing his cheek with a little smile. He was so unused to her being near him. Getting up, he pulled the rest of the bedding from the saddle. Hed slept separate from her, giving her the mat to lay on, for the past few nights.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 08:52 PM

I lay down and wait for a while, being still and silent. When I think you are asleep I get up, gathering my blanket, and move over to you. I lay just about ar your stomach, curled in a ball, just barely not quite touching you. One hand extends out from the blanket to rest on your arm, skin touching skin. That arm glows gently as I sleep, the rest of me completely covered by the blanket.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 08:59 PM

He was out, but slept lightly. He stirred gently as she touched his arm but rested back still. Sighing gently he rolled to hold her gently.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 09:02 PM

I wake up and lay still listening to the sounds of the morning, enjoying your arms around me. When I think you are going to wake up, I quietly steal away, back to the mat. I don't know if it's a "privacy" thing, but it seems like you wouldn't approve of me sleeping with you. But I can't sleep unless I can feel you touching me.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 09:07 PM

When she tried to move he groaned softly holding her tight to him, burying his face in her hair. "Don't leave you're warm." He murmured softly.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 09:14 PM

I tense, then settle back against you. I hadn't expected you to want me to stay. I also don't understand my reaction to it. "Aeron, I feel...different. good, but different. Safe, and comfortable, and happy, and ... different." I move your hand down from my waist and press it over my tummy. "Like...butterflies." I speak very quietly, blushing. I wiggle back toward you a bit, slipping one of my feet between your legs, pressing myself against you tightly. "I like it, I don't want it to go away."

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 09:18 PM

He smiled gently sleepy, and curled up into her to sleep until he was forced to get up by the day. He had time to... waste he supposed. If you could call it wasting.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 09:30 PM

I hear you fall back to sleep and press my own hand against my tummy, gently exploring this new feeling. My hand moves lower, exploring, enjoying the touches, until I press my fingers to the slit between my thighs. The sensation is enexpected and startling. I pull my hand away, grabbing onto your arm, my heart racing as I try to calm my breathing. The feeling seems to be all over now, making it difficult to stay still. But I do stay still, and it calms calms down slowly, allowing me to drift off lightly, holding on to you tightly. When you get up I wake up immediately. Disconcerted, I sit up and let out a soft cry of alarm. I look around, slowly remembering where I am. Then I look at you, and smile. I quietly roll up the bedding, nice and tight, ready to be strapped to the horse, and help get everything ready to go.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 09:50 PM

He pressed the heel of his hand to his eye, tired and held out a hand to her, pulling her onto the horse. He didnt do mornings well. "Last day before we reach the Southern city, where my guild is." He took the reigns quietly.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 10:09 PM

"southern city!" I repeat, "a city! Is it very large? Are there many people?" I ask excitedly. "I've always wanted to see a city!" I lean forward, eagerly watching for the city. I don't know what to expect, but I know it's where many, many people gather.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 10:13 PM

"Decently. A few thousands." He smiled gently at her excitement. "Itll be towards tomorrow morning when we get there. No need to be looking today." He hugged her gently.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 10:18 PM

I grab onto your arms around me and hug back, leaning back into you. I glow brightly, and look up to nuzzle into your neck. "I'm so excited!" My excitement doesn't wear out either. Periodically throughout the day I have bursts of excited energy that have me talking nonstop, or fidgeting, or squirming in my seat. When I'm not expressing my excitement this way, my eyes sparkle as I watch the horizon, hoping for my first glimpse of a real city.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 10:33 PM

the day was unexciting, riding or walking near Marda to keep his legs awake. Leaning into the horses neck, he glanced up to the now heavily darkened sky. "We're about... two hours id say. You can't see well because of the trees but..." he pointed to a small glow in the distance. "Thats the city."

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 10:38 PM

I stand in the stirrups, something I'd only learned how to do today, while you were walking, to peer in the direction you indicate. "Oh! Oh! I can't wait!" I grin excitedly, sitting back down and leaning forward to hug Marda. I hear another horse approaching and freeze, then sit up to look. Gradually it becomes clear there are several horses. When the group rounds a bend in the road it becomes clear there are about 7 riders, all seemingly cheerful companions.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 10:42 PM

He pulled Marda from the road to the side, tieing her reigns to the trees. He kept an eye on the riders, helping her off the horse and taking off the saddle. He held out a brush to Celeste. "Brush Marda for me?"

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 10:50 PM

I smile brightly, taking the brush, and enthusiastically set about brushing the horse. She nuzzles at me affectionately, making me laugh. I talk to the horse as if she could understand me. "I'm trying to get that spot, you keep your nose out of the way, how can I get to the itchy places if you keep sticking your nose in the way, silly mare?!" The horse blows softly and bumps her nose gently against my forehead. I throw my arms around her neck, grinning as I embrace her. I'm aware of the riders, but keep reminding myself that I am safe with you, you will make sure I am safe. Every so often my eyes dart over to make sure you are nearby. The group of riders stops not far down the road, at a small clearing with room for their camp. They talk, laugh, and seem to be having a good time. As you make the fire I can't help looking their direction, wondering what all the fun is about.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 10:54 PM

he kept a knife at his belt but went about his own business, far enough away that their activities were concealed by a curve in the road. He set up the fire and laid out the bedding. He made a simple meal, just cooked meat and the rest of the fresh fruit.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 11:05 PM

my eyes seem to constantly stray back in the direction of the group, though weather my interest is curiosity or fear is difficult to determine. After we eat i settle myself in front of you, leaning against you comfortably. I rest my head against your shoulder, nuzzling into your neck, pressing so close my eyelashes brush against you. "please don't go away from me tonight, Aeron. Lay with me, it will be warmer, and safer. I know you want...Privacy," i say the word with a distasteful face, "but i don't like them being so close.

Aeron BOT 26-Nov-21 11:12 PM

He smiled softly, wrapping her and himself in his heavy quilt. "You've already been snuggling up to me when I fall asleep." He teased arm around her waist.

Celeste BOT 26-Nov-21 11:17 PM

I blink up at you innocently, then cuddle in to you. "I like to be near you." I say. Your arm around me feels good. I smile absently, turning toward you as we sit together by the fire. "That feeling is back. That good feeling. Thank you." I have no doubt that you are causing it.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 09:38 AM

He buried his face into her hair silently. He wasn't a talker. She'd kind of realized that through the days. He sat and held her silent, arms firm around her.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 09:49 AM

I fall silent, enjoying the pleasant feeling. But all to soon it fades, without any encouragement. I lean against you, content where I am, until another burst of laughter is accompanied by the sounds of an instrument. I sit up, staring in the direction of the beautiful sounds.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:31 AM

He looked up silently, towards the sound but settled back. "Don't. We weren't invited." He warned chuckling.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:58 AM

I stare at the light and shadows cast by the large fire they have going, gradually settling back against you. "What is it? How do they make that sound?" I ask, "it's like...I've never heard anything like it!"

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 11:06 AM

"Its a lyre... and a flute i think. Instruments." He explained gently, forgetting she didn't know of them. "I have some in my home at the city. Ill show you tomorrow."

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 11:07 AM

I turn to look at you, eyes wide with wonder. "You can do that!??" I ask, obviously impressed

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 11:25 AM

"its just a matter of learning. Like fighting or cooking." He smiled gently. "Just listen and enjoy."

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 12:31 PM

I sit back, resting against you, letting my eyes close halfway. My hand finds your thigh, fingertips lightly tracing swirling designs with the music. I scoot a bit closer, moving my touch higher up your thigh, leaning to one side and resting my head on your shoulder/neck. Without stopping my fingers, I turn my head up and nuzzle into your neck, touching my lips to your skin. I breath in your scent, smiling against your neck when that feeling returns. "I like this." I say simply, my hand growing still against your thigh.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 01:21 PM

"Mm..." he just hummed softly in acknowledgement of the statement, trying to ignore the heat in his core. He shifted, hands flat against the ground behind him.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 02:15 PM

I frown, uncertain why you took your arms away. I sigh softly, turning my face down again, disappointed when the feeling fades quickly once more. I turn forward, bringing my knees up and wrapping my arms around them, staring into the fire. I can't figure out how to tell you what I want, what I need from you. I've tried, I always tell you when I'm happy, when I feel good, and sometimes it seems like you listen, but other times it seems like you stop whatever it is you were doing to make me feel good. Maybe I'm not doing the things you need from me. Maybe I have missed something important, maybe I am failing you. I ponder these things as I stare at the fire, the beautiful sounds from the camp down the road in my ears. My back feels cold without you behind me. I can't stand not touching you, but you seem reluctant to touch me at all.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 02:30 PM

He delicately pulled her gently back to him, setting his cheek on her hair. He kept his arms back behind him, but leaned with her as he watched the flames.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 02:51 PM

I enjoy the warmth of your body, the gentleness with which you touch me, but I want you to want me here with you. I will be here forever, I need to be wanted. I need to be part of you, as much as you are part of me. But I don't know how to tell you that. I don't know how to tell you anything. You are so kind to me one moment, then cruelly withhold that which I need more than anything else. I hug my knees tight, fretting over everything until I finally begin to drift to sleep. My grip on my knees loosens and I lean gently to one side.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 03:13 PM

He leaned her into him, wrapping her in the blanket. He sighed softly and gently pushed himself up unable to sleep. Sighing again, he ruffled his hair with a small groan. He was already too close with her.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 08:36 PM

I wake up as you wrap me in the blanket, and when you sit up I push myself halfway up. Seeing that you aren't going away, I lay back down and watch you. I can tell something is bothering you. "Aeron? How can I help?" I ask, not caring what the problem is, willing to help in any way I can.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 08:43 PM

"I'm fine, you can go back to sleep." He said gently but detached, his arms crossed. You're being careless, Aeron. he silently chastised himself. He closed his eyes to stay in the dark with the fire lighting his eyelids. You're going to get her killed.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 08:50 PM

at your response, and as soon as your eyes close, I silently sit up and lean on you, resting my head on your shoulder. I know something is bothering you but since you won't tell me, I decide to just be here with you. I hesitantly find your hand, slipping my own underneath it.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 08:52 PM

He hated doing it but he moved his arm away, kicking himself. I'm sorry. Its for your own good. He grit his teeth.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 08:54 PM

I lift my head, staring at my hand, then bring it close and wrap my arm around my stomach. I look up at you, confused and hurt. "Did I do something wrong?" I ask quietly.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 08:56 PM

"No." He winced slightly looking away because of her expression. "I can't put you at risk like I already have." He twisted his hands in his lap.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 08:58 PM

a tiny smile graces my lips. I shake my head, reaching toward your hand again. "Aeron you keep me safe. You protect me." I say simply

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 09:00 PM

He pulled away again. "I can't from my guild. They can easily kill me and you. And they will if I allow this to continue. And it will not be quick and painless." He said softly, still staring forwards.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 09:07 PM

"if...allow what to continue? I trust you Aeron, I know you will protect me. I am safe with you." My arm goes back to wrap around my waist again. I frown at you.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 09:09 PM

"That means stop touching you. Stop shoeing emotion to you like i have. I am not allowed to even remove my mask." He sighed picking up the accessory, running a hand over it.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 09:15 PM

I look at you with a frown. "I don't understand, what did I do wrong?"

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 09:26 PM

"It isn't you! I'm trying to protect you!" He gripped his mask tight enough to turn his knuckles white.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 09:37 PM

"I am safe with you!" I say quietly. I know you are getting angry, but I have to make you understand. "I need you, I am with you, and I won't go away, Aeron, I don't care if it's dangerous! I trust you! You will protect me!"

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 09:42 PM

"I can't protect you always! I can't betray my guild." He buried his face in his hands getting frustrated and trying not to snap any more than he has at her."

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 09:43 PM

"I never asked you too! Not once!" I say, confused even more.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 09:49 PM

"My protecting you will make my guild angry." He said like he was talking to a child, not able to keep from getting upset. She was difficult to talk to at times. "I can't keep you with me like this. It will make them upset and they will kill you and me."

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:13 PM

I look up at you, even more confused. "Why? I never did anything to them?" I shake my head, my hands on the sides of my head. "Fine! If you want me gone that bad, I'll go!" I climb to my feet suddenly and dart into the woods, using every trick I know to dissappear as fast as possible.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:19 PM

he went to follow, hand raised, then stopped growling. "Go get her Aeron." He ordered himself sighing and he groaned rubbing his face. He pushed himself up, giving chase. "Celeste?! I didn't mean leave!"

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:25 PM

I don't go far before the dark and the unknown has me running in fear. I don't know these woods, and every sound seems alien. When I finally trip and land near a fallen log I crawl into a hollow underneath it and curl up tightly. I shiver, and sniffle as tears roll down my cheeks. "I wanted to see the city with you, Aeron." I say into the night. "I will never be brave enough alone."

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:27 PM

"CELESTE." He was panicking, tearing his way through and falling over the underground. "Please?!" He pushed himself up blinking. He should've let her heal his damn eyes. He winced at his sore ankle protesting his jogging. "Celeste Is swear to God come out!"

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:32 PM

I hear something crashing through the woods and curl up tighter, covering my ears so it isn't so scary. But I hear your familiar voice calling out. Calling me! Calling my name! I crawl out from under the log, then get on top of the log and look around. I can't see you in the dark, there is no glittering life/magic to show me where you are. "Aeron!!?" I call out, "Aeron?!!"

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:33 PM

He snapped upright following her voice. "Celeste! Come here. Please!" He sighed in relief that she at least was alive.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:36 PM

"I can't! I can't see you!" I cry out, sounding as scared as I feel. "I'm scared, I can't move!" I jump at every sound, breathing hard, fear making me want to bolt. "I can't see you Aeron, please find me!"

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:38 PM

"I'm coming. Just... just keep talking!" He tried to sound reassuring, sliding down a small hill and resting against a tree to give his leg a moment. "Its alright. I promise!"

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:40 PM

"why did you come after me?" I ask, trying to distract myself. "You said you can't have me with you!"

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:47 PM

"Because I'm not leaving you alone." He kept following her voice, slowing and more careful. "Just... just ignore what id said. I was being stupid."

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:50 PM

"you said they would kill you!" I sound more terrified at that statement than before. "You said they would kill you!" I almost shriek, sounding near hysterical. "They can't kill you!"

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:52 PM

"I'm the best of my class. They wouldn't risk me having my sights on them." He almost snorted at his choice of words and swallowed down his anxiety. He was close to her. "Can you please come out of where you're hiding at least?"

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 10:55 PM

I can hear how close you are and I timidly creep toward you. When I finally see you I freeze. I scrub the tears off my face, leaving streaks of dirt behind. "Aeron?" I say quietly, starting to luminesce faintly as soon as I see you.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 10:56 PM

he quickly swept her up into a hug tightly, face buried into her hair. He hadn't realized how... lonely it was to live how he did. "Never run like that again."

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 11:00 PM

"okay," I say without hesitation, arms crushed to my sides by your embrace. I glow brighter, squeezed so close to you I can feel your heart racing against my chest. With the brightness comes a wave of warmth that course's through you, quickly mending your leg. "You got hurt for me!" I say, shocked.

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 11:01 PM

"I.. I fell over a log." He snorted letting her back down but still had his fingers around her wrist.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 11:12 PM

I wrap the fingers of my free hand around your wrist, keeping both my hands on you. "Why will they kill you, Aeron?" I ask quietly, following you

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 11:23 PM

"I'm not supposed to... do anything really. No friends, no family, no love

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 11:26 PM

I look at you, wide eyes growing wider. I blink and tears make fresh tracks through the streaks of dirt on my cheeks. "Don't go back, Aeron." I plead. "Please? They...let them think you got killed, or, or, you...you were sick, they won't come looking for you. Please Aeron. Please."

Aeron BOT 27-Nov-21 11:28 PM

he shook his head gently with a murmur of it of not being that simple but let it go, walking back toward camp.

Celeste BOT 27-Nov-21 11:40 PM

I walk with you to camp, then find a water skin and wash the dirt off, first myself, then I tend to you. I ignore your protests and wash the mud and dirt away, the use the horse brush to get the muck off my own clothes. My white dress is more brown and green now, something that's never happened before. I frown at it a moment, then put the brush away and walk to the mat. "Aeron, I'm going to sleep wherever you do. Please lay with me here?"

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 09:19 AM

he smiled softly and flopped onto the mat, holding up the blanket for her to craw beneath it. Hed laid aside his shirt to dry, wearing a thin shawl for a shirt.

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 12:50 PM

I look at you, waiting for me to lay with you, and grin with delight. I dive under the blanket, nuzzling into your neck, cuddling as close as I can. One leg slips between yours, and my hand slips under your shirt as I snuggle into you. I let out a contented sigh.

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 01:05 PM

He shivered as her cold hand hit his chest and laughed gently at his response. He rubbed her hand trying to warm it up.

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 01:32 PM

I look at you, moving my head back just enough to see you. A smile curves my lips as I gaze at you, not saying a word.

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 01:42 PM

i finally tuck my head up under your chin, pressed close against you. "Goodnight, Aeron." I say quietly, closing my eyes.

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 01:48 PM

"Goodnight... Celesete." He murmured softly, hands tucked around her waist and her hair.

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 02:17 PM

I sleep well. Feeling safe and secure and warm makes a huge difference. For the first time since leaving Kingswood I dream. It's a confused dream, with too much happening to make sense of it, but you are in it, the entire time.

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 02:54 PM

he curled up asleep, holding her, completely out cold.

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 04:00 PM

When he woke, he carefully pulled out of her arms and packed up the supplies. He gently picked her up and set her on Marda's back. Rounding the corner of the road, they'd look down on the southern city. Massive spires from the before pierced into the sky. The spires were made from stone, with no visible seams or joints as if they'd been molded from a singular piece. He sighed and looked to one of them as they approached the city gate. He tucked his mask back over his face. "I'm putting you in at the inn. You can stay there."

Vampire-Nerd 28-Nov-21 04:00 PM

@reddeR

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 04:16 PM

I stare at the city, in awe. I can't pull my eyes away from the tall spires, clusters of buildins, and people all around. I grip the edge of the saddle so tight my knuckles turn white. I don't really hear what you say, just stare up at the gate as we pass underneath.

reddeR 28-Nov-21 04:46 PM

@Vampire-Nerd

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 04:59 PM

he was let into the city without the need to check paperwork, bypassing Celeste with a glance of curiosity but little more considering her present company. He led the way through the dingy streets,t he cobbles tore up and uneven beneath the horses hooves. He held the reigns to a stable boy at the inn and motioned Celeste off. "You'll stay here while I go to my guild, alright?

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 05:02 PM

"stay?" I ask, slipping down from the saddle and stumbling into you. "When will you be back?" I ask, looking up at you, eyes wide with fear, trying to be brave and not let you see how afraid I am.

reddeR 28-Nov-21 05:02 PM

@Vampire-Nerd

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 05:05 PM

"Tonight. And ill show you around the city all you'd like. Just please, stay in the room." He walked into the inn and bought a room showing her to it. He dropped the saddlebags in the small chair. "Just please stay in here.'

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 05:14 PM

I follow you quietly, watching you closely. I start to follow you, still, as you go out the door, then stop myself and just look at you. Before you shut the door, I call out to you. "Aeron, wait! Please! I..." I fidget, trying to think of something that would get you to stay a little longer.

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 05:15 PM

He paused at the door and sighed pulling up his mask to kiss her forehead. "Please stay here. I won't be long."

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 05:17 PM

I look up at you, frowning slightly. "You promise?" I ask quietly

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 05:18 PM

"I promise. And ill even take you to a proper meal."

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 05:20 PM

I reach up and touch one finger to your lips, eyes locked on yours. "I don't know what I will do without you, Aeron."

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 05:24 PM

He kissed her fingertips gently before turning and shutting the door behind him. He pulled his mask down and stopped out onto the street. Time to go talk to the guild..."

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 05:52 PM

I rush to the window and watch, picking you out of the crowd of hooded figures by the way your life/magic is...not. I take note of the direction you go and watch for some time, spotting you between building on another street. I grab the cloak you gave me, pulling the hood up like all the other people I see. I leave the inn and follow you, only worried about being seen by you. I make my way through the crowd without much trouble, meaning I gain ground on you quickly. It easy to track you. No matter what you do, I can spot you by the shadows that cling to you.

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 05:57 PM

He pushed through to the door to one of the massive towering stone structures. Foot traffic was heavy through the building, it being a place of work for multiple skilled trades. He located two of the acolytes and waved a hello, being allowed into their back sections. He could only recognize them by the faint scent of the common leaves used in the healing droughts and poisons.

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 06:16 PM

I loose you in the crowd. Because I'm shorter than most of those around me, moody notices the panicked way I look around. The hood covers my face well. I walk in the direction I saw you last, searching for any sign of you. I bump into a hooded figure, and for a moment I think it's you. The scent of the herbs you'd used when you helped my shoulder heal enveloped me. I am surprised when I turn and see a complete stranger. The faint glow that had barely begun vanishes in an instant. "Sorry!" I say, pulling my hood lower. He stares for a moment, then just grunts. I scurry a safe distance away and watch. Nothing happens for some time, then a person approaches the door guarded by the person who smells like you. Another cloaked person steps up, and I realize they are both watching that door. The approaching person is waved through, and walks through the door easily. I can do this, I tell myself. I wait while two more people are waved through individually. I know how I can do it after that. When a person approached, the herbal-scented gaurd turns toward them, and the second gaurd moves over with them to peer at the approaching person's face within their hood. Every time. I carefully make my way to a nearby spot, hidden from view of the gaurds. I wait for another person the approach, the , as soon as the second gaurd rushes toward the main entrance, I rush right past, reaching the door without being seen. I open it as little as possible, slip through, and duck into the first hiding spot I see. I don't know whats on this side of the door.

Information BOT 28-Nov-21 06:39 PM

The inside was a fighting pit of sorts, a collesium looking down into a pit. Most of the crowds didn't wear their masks, apart from those whose didn't have features like Aerons. Several fights were going on in the pit below of new initiates fighting each other in a series of eliminations. Most were in their late teens, but some as old as 40s and as young as 13. The center of the stands were separated for what she could only assume were people of importance. Two of the guards were fae, their power nearly radiating visibly through the crowd. Aeron was seated nearby, talking to a small and feeble old man.

reddeR 28-Nov-21 07:59 PM

Ce:"I realize I'm not going to be spotted unless I do something stupid like try to hide under the seats... And crawl out from under the seats quickly. Nobody is even paying attention to me, they are much more interested in the fights, or their own conversations. I make my way to the edge of the stands and look down at the fighting. As I watch one fight is decided, as one fighters sinks a hidden dagger into his opponents temple, the sound as the blade breaks through bone reverberating throughout the arena. The kid looks shocked, then scared, then, as people start to cheer nearby, a haughty pride comes over him. I cover my mouth and silently cry. The man on the ground isn't dead yet, and convulsed violently. Finally someone comes and grabs the handle of the blade protruding from the side of his face and twists it. The body goes limp, and all the life/magic glitter is gone. I can't help it, tears flow unchecked down my cheeks. I stay silent, at least, but the tears fall, soaking the sleeves of my cloak and some dropping to the floor. Then I see you, across the arena, and immediately turn and start making my way around. Tears still fall, splattering all along the route I take. I never even notice the fae, I'm so distraught by witnessing the death of the man in the arena. They both notice me, though. They aren't sure what I am, having never encountered a unicorn, but they know I am fae, and they know I am all but running toward the guild leader. They both start running, one of them giving a signal to the rest of the assasins nearby. The two fae move with inhuman speed, right over the tops of the seats. Anybody in their way is roughly shoved aside. Behind me is a trail of tears, and where each tear falls a flower sprouts, grows, and blooms. But nobody is looking at the ground. Pete start moving out of the way of the two fae sprinting toward me as I run straight into their advance. I can't see any more than the floor immediately beneath my feet. I don't think, just run, knowing you are at the other end of this path I'm following. Without warning all the air is forced out of my chest as something slams into me forcefully. The only reason a blade doesn't sink between my ribs is because the fey who hit me found absolutely no resistance. I don't even open my eyes, just continue to cry, shaking my head slowly. After several long moments i am able to pull air back into my lungs, and as it comes back out, a single word passes between my lips, amplified by the design of the arena. "Aeron!""

Tupperbox BOT 28-Nov-21 07:59 PM

There was an error performing the operation. Please report this to the support server if issues persist. (50035)

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 08:09 PM

Aeron flinched and shadow stepped next to where he saw her glow, heel of his boot connecting with the fae guards temple and knocking him off. He had no idea why he was doing this. How he found himself suddenly across the ring. He pulled her to his chest gently baring his teeth. "Back off." He said softly. The guard wiped blood from his temple, snarling. "What the hell do you think you're doing bastard?" He growled and Aeron half bent like he was an animal protecting. "Shes mine." He bared his teeth.

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 09:52 PM

I cry when your arms wrap around me, clinging to you, oblivious to the danger I've put us both in. I bury my face against you, trying to stiffle the tears. Even with the tears, as soon as you hold me I start to glow, faintly at first, gradually growing brighter.

Aeron BOT 28-Nov-21 10:25 PM

The man was carried by one of his guards around to the fight, the wizened man leaning down to rip off Aerons mask. "Put him in the ring. If he lives, we'll let him out." He ordered and Aeron let the guard pull him up. The man looked to Celeste. "Come along sweetheart. We have the best seats."

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 10:33 PM

I look at you, panic in my eyes. I just saw a man die down there, I can't let you go there! "No! No, please, no, Aeron!" I pleade, looking from the man to You and back. "Please don't make him go down there!" Realizing that this man was the one giving orders, I slip right past the gaurd and clasp his hand, dropping to my knees and pressing his hand to my forehead. It takes more effort, because the people here have so little life/magic, but I gather as much as I can and bring it to the old man, infusing him with it, healing him, trying my damndest to reverse time itself, to please this man, to make him let you walk away.

Information BOT 28-Nov-21 10:51 PM

"Oh stop that lovely.. there's no more for me. Now get up before I get angry." He laughed waving down the guard that remained by his side, the other pushing Aeron down the stairs. Aeron winced pushing himself up from the packed dirt of the ground blinking and trying to listen over the crowd roar. He had a slight view of shadows and light from Celestes' brief healing attempt but was basically blind.

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 10:56 PM

I look up at the old man, unable to accept that while I can heal his aches for now, I cannot heal what really ails him time takes down all men. I stand, not wanting to make it worse by angering this man. I follow as he is carried back to his seat, then stand awkwardly beside him while you enter the arena. My eyes are dry, my mind blank as I realize it's my fault, and you might die, and I can't heal death.

Information BOT 28-Nov-21 10:58 PM

"You may pick his.. partner. It is a 2 person team." The man gestured to a small amount of fighters nearby. "Since you demanded you be here."

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 11:13 PM

I look at the man, not understanding. He wants me to pick... I cover my mouth with my hands and shake my head, closing my eyes. But if I don't pick, he will, and then... I look over at the fighters, and my heart breaks as I realize that whichever one I pick will die. "I...cant!" I whisper, trembling all over. "I cant!"

Information BOT 28-Nov-21 11:15 PM

He gestured and one of the men bowed slightly, the rest leaving the ring. Aeron slowly followed the man's progress, struggling to keep track on him. "Hello Aeron." "Dasha."

Celeste BOT 28-Nov-21 11:27 PM

it's the most horrific thing I've ever experienced, and I can't look away. Only an occasional tear falls to the floor. My hands stay pressed against my mouth. Nothing I do can pull my eyes away from the arena. I don't want to watch, it hurts so much to watch, knowing I will see another person die, and it could be you. I dash to the edge of the stands, stopping just before toppling off the wall. My head spins, and I breathe to quickly. I waver as I stand there, lightheaded, and one of the men, at a gesture from the old man, grabs my shoulder and pulls me back from the wall. He puts me into a seat, then stays at my side, making sure I don't try to enter the arena. Someone notices a flower, in full bloom, and plucks it. When they spot another, they pick it as well, and begin making their way around the stands slowly.

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 07:41 AM

He looked up smiling and Celeste felt the little mental push of him looking through her eyes. He looked back to his opponent with a soft sigh, rolling his neck. "Been a while Dasha."

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 08:57 AM

my eyes stay open, locked on the arena, seeing everything you need to see. As soon as I feel you I calm down. I have to. If I loose focus you loose sight. My hands tremble as I realize I have to watch you kill something, or watch you get killed.

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 09:16 AM

He tried to keep her calm, knowing she was scared. Dasha was a brawler. Slow. He rolled his neck again with the odd sensation of watching himself.

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 03:11 PM

I watch closely, carefully. I cannot weep, despite the cold gripping my heart, for fear of impeding vision. I don't even want to blink. And as much as I wish to, I cannot look away to shield myself from what's happening below me. You see yourself as i see you, which weighs heavily on my heart, as well. Where every other person glitters with the life/magic, bright flashes of the truly inexplicable force that is life, you show only darkness and shadow. No glitter resides within you, and the glitter of others who come near you seems to be quickly pulled in by your shadows and extinguished. Shadow walking comes with a price. You are not made of the same life/magic as those around you. That force cannot exist in shadow, and if you had been made of it, shadow walking would have consumed you. Instead you are a piece of the shadow, pulling energy from the life /magic found here. The same that radiates in abundance from me. Something I am almost exclusively able to see at just a glance. Something I would have rather you not known.

Information BOT 29-Nov-21 04:40 PM

Aeron used it to his advantage, keeping out of Dasha's grip and out of his massive reach. Hed pick his moments to step into a blindspot, strike, and step back. He didnt do a strike if it wouldn't damage. To break a rid, numb a nerve, spasm a muscle. One of the guards muttered 'like a fucking corvid." As he leaned down on the rings edge. He pulled and worked Dasha down, taking any strikes on his back or legs to keep the strength of his strikes. Celeste realized Dasha was lame in one leg and had to favor it, and Aeron was aware of it. He got a foot into Dasha's knee and the man screamed limping back. Aeron leapt onto the man's back, arms tight around the larger man's throat. He winced in pain as Dasha slammed him into the wall with his weight in an attempt to dislodge him. Aeron kept his grip until Dasha collapsed.

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 05:08 PM

I wonder how you have fought without eyes before. As your opponent collapses I catch the man beside me off gaurd with how quickly I stand and step to the edge

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 05:13 PM

he looked up smiling and mouthed 'let's go'. He picked up his mask from one of the men at the rings edge and disappeared into the tunnels below, coming out on the steps nearby.

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 05:35 PM

I run toward you as soon as I see you emerge from the tunnel. I don't stop, just run right into you.

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 05:39 PM

He laughed wincing gently at the impact but hugged her anyway. "Lets leave. I've made my point here." He looked up at his master half smirking and then back to her.

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 05:44 PM

I step back from you, blushing as I realize, upon contact, that you are hurt. I reach toward you, needing to touch you so I can heal you

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 07:58 PM

he gratefully cupped his face with her hands, his own over them. He only.pulled away when his master had put a hand to his arm. "Come back when you need, son." Aeron nodded softly.

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 08:07 PM

I don't say anything the whole way back to the inn. I keep my head down, clutching your hand, almost running to keep up. I expect you are furious with me, and I don't want to make anything worse.

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 08:48 PM

he was angry. Seething. But he had expected it. Dasha was a shit man, but it still was unnecessary. He pushed open the door to his room pushing her gently. "What did you think you were doing? Hmm?! Ignoring my simple request!"

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 08:58 PM

"I'm sorry Aeron. I wish I never left here!" I say quietly. My hands cover my face, though I don't make a sound. I sink to my knees, shaking slightly. "It's my fault you killed that man!" I barely whisper, still in shock from watching. "Did you see it? His life/magic didn't go out, Aaron, it all went into you..."

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 09:11 PM

"just dont... don't talk about it." He said softly sitting on the edge of the bed, gripping his hair.

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 09:21 PM

I lower my hands and look at you, eyes wide, confused, and afraid. I see your distress, and I ache to comfort you. But I caused it, I'm the reason you had to kill someone. I feel alone, truly alone like I never have before. "I...I don't know-" I pause, taking a breath, trying to think of what I want to say. I can't find words to describe the hollow feeling in my chest. I don't know how to ask you to hold me. "You told me it's what you do," I say softly, "I didn't...I didn't realize...I didn't think..." My hands sit on my thighs, limp, my posture is defeated. I lower my head and fall quiet, unmoving.

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 09:39 PM

"if I give you an order. You listen. Or I am not taking you with me. Do you understand me?" He said softly looking up at her. "I am angry that you didn't listen. That is what upsets me, Celeste. I asked a simple thing.of you and you decided that it meant nothing."

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 09:44 PM

I nod silently. I knew it was wrong when I did it, but I didn't want you to just leave me. "I didn't think I would get somebody killed." I whisper, "I just wanted to be near you."

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 09:46 PM

"And that is fine. But if I give am order like that. You have to trust me. I said I'd come back." He slid off the bed, gently pulling her to him to hug her. "I am glad you're okay."

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 10:02 PM

I flinch when you first grab me, then, as I'm pulled close, I grab onto you, hands making fists on your shirt. I come closer, crawling into your lap, hiding into your chest, and curl up in your arms. I tremble, but as you hold me it gradually eases. When I lift my head again to look at you I don't say anything, just rest my head against your shoulder and look.

Aeron BOT 29-Nov-21 10:39 PM

he silently held her, humming under his breath. He set his cheek on her hair exhausted and aching.

Celeste BOT 29-Nov-21 10:45 PM

"Aeron, I'm tired, can we go to sleep now?" I ask quietly, expecting you to refuse. I want you as close to me as possible, touching me everywhere. Only me, because I know your shadow can never swallow all of the glitter I put out. The more you take from me, the more I produce.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 07:57 AM

he nodded gently and got up, setting aside his mask and tried to pull off his shirt wincing. He cussed softly and switched his tact to pulling it off his arms then over his head. His back was still bruised and angry, despite her healing attempts.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 08:20 AM

I stand, swaying slightly, and help with your shirt. When I see the injuries on you my eyes widen in shock. I don't say anything, just wait for you to lay down so I can touch you.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 08:34 AM

He gratefully flopped on his stomach on the bed, grunting. "Fuckin hell." He tenderly felt his ribs. "Dont go picking fights with our kin again."

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 01:31 PM

I get on the bed on my knees and spread my hands over your back. I focus on healing, but I don't have to. The way you pull the glitter into you picks up anything I give off. No need to push the energy to you, you take it, drink it up eagerly. I slowly move my hands over your back, everywhere I touch giving of a painful twinge before healing rapidly.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 04:44 PM

he purred softly under her touch, relaxing against the blankets. He smiled softly. It took a higher amount of energy to heal them, and he eventually stopped taking her power to keep her from exhausting herself. He stretched out gratefully under her hands.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 05:05 PM

I can't take my eyes off of you. Even having seen you kill someone, I just want to be near you, to touch you, just like this. Seeing you comfortable without a shirt, so much of you available to touch, I want to touch all of you. It doesn't bother me that I've only got a dress on, I take it off quickly and lay down with you, resting onto your shoulder, reaching over you to find your hand and lace my fingers through yours, My body pressed against you. I don't bother pulling a blanket over us, almost the instant I sigh with content, my eyes drift closed.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 05:15 PM

He buried his face, positive he was blushing to his ears and wrapped his fingers in hers. He smiled gently tipping his head to the side, looking back. "Is my back comfy?"

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 05:20 PM

"not as comfy as your front." I mumble sleepily, not really caring

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 05:21 PM

he laughed and gently rolled to shift her to lay on him. He set a hand in her hair, playing with the locks.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 05:23 PM

I sigh as I settle against you, my head over your heart, my hand resting on your stomach. I tangle our legs together and start to relax into you.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 05:26 PM

he smiled softly holding her. It'd been a long while since he'd been near a woman minus less with one. Running his hands in her hair, he purred gently.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 05:30 PM

the soft sound you make catches my attention. I look up at you, curious. I smile when I see your smile and lay my head back down.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 05:35 PM

He had his head back and eyes shut, trying to keep his mind off the fact he was naked on him. He rubbed his face, half hard under her.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 05:45 PM

I squirm a bit closer, my leg shifting over yours, and bring my arm closer to me to rest near your shoulder. "Your heart is beating faster, Aeron." I say quietly, my words whispering over your skin lightly.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 05:48 PM

"heh..." he laughed awkwardly, trying to relax. "Sorry."

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 05:56 PM

I frown, not opening my eyes. "Why?

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 06:02 PM

"Its... difficult to explain, love. Dont worry about it." He said hesitantly. "Its alright."

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 06:17 PM

I lift my head to look at you, shifting around so I can rest my head on your arm and see your face. My heart feels like it might burst with happiness, it takes everything I have not to let it show. I want you to say it over and over, but I think if I ask you won't say it again. I don't think you even know you said it. I frantically try to think of what to say. I know I want to talk about whatever I'd just asked about, but I can't remember what that even was. My hand on your chest curls into a fist, then I let out a small sigh and close my eyes, defeated. "You are so confusing, Aeron." I mutter

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 06:23 PM

he sighed softly face flushing again. "Its... it means I enjoy your presence." He laughed softly tipping up her chin.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 06:33 PM

I smile up at you, my whole body luminescing softly. I nuzzle into your neck, making soft, delighted squeak sound.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 06:41 PM

he let out a little huff, heart pounding. "That feels funny." He half laughed.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 06:52 PM

I stop, raising my head to look at you, frowning slightly. After a moment I settle back to your shoulder. "I'm sorry. I didn't know you didn't like that." I say quietly, more confused than before. I take a deep breath, trying to relax again, but tension comes off of me in waves. Frustration, confusion, and trauma all take their toll, and the certainty that I will do something wrong and make you more distant weighs heavily. I take a breath, then another. I try to think of something different, something safe, but nothing comes to mind.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 06:53 PM

He sighed gently and grabbed her chin. "I like you. Stop being afraid of me. There's an order to listen to." He winked and smiled softly, kissing her forehead.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 07:01 PM

"I have never been afraid of you, Aeron." I touch my fingertips gently to your lips after you kiss my forehead, eyes on your lips. "I am afraid of loosing you."

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 07:03 PM

"You aren't going to lose me from touching me or what I do or don't like. Just listen when I tell you to stay." He chuckled holding her cheeks, smooshing her face gently.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 07:20 PM

I giggle, then just look at you, smiling. I relax some, and glow a bit brighter. I trace your lips with my fingers, the soft skin fascinating to me. I move my hand and cup your face gently, my thumb brushing against your cheek.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 07:23 PM

He closed his eyes, letting her touch his face. He purred softly his own hands over hers. He set his head back on the pillows smiling. "Too pretty."

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 07:33 PM

encouraged, I let my hand travel down your neck, gliding over your shoulder and down your chest. I move slowly, watching both your face and my hand on your skin.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 07:37 PM

He shivered gently, chest twitching under her fingertips. Panting softly, he kept his eyes closed shifting his waist away from her to hide his aching hard on.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 07:43 PM

you shift away and my hand presses to the side of your stomach, my tension spiking. I look up at your face, needing reassurance.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 07:45 PM

He looked down when she stopped, a half grin across his face. He brushed under her chin with a quiet pant. "Whats wrong love?"

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 07:57 PM

i meet your eyes, heart racing. My hand trembles against your side. I hold your gaze for a moment, then my eyelids flutter faintly before they drop back to my hand. I lick my lips, leaving them parted as I pant softly. "That feeling is back, Aeron. That good feeling. I like this feeling." I breathe, shifting against you. Pressing tight against you. I gasp softly, letting it out as a faint moan. "Ooh, it's back more than before!" I press my lips to your shoulder, almost forgetting not to nuzzle into you. My hand moves over your stomach, pressing just below your bellybutton.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 08:02 PM

he shivered softly chewing his lip stomach tensing under her hands. "Mm, really." He purred softly into her ear, nipping her earlobe with a purr.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 08:11 PM

I moan into your shoulder, tensing, then look up at you. My eyes show uninhibited desire, need, arousal. I push up on to my elbows, hovering over you slightly, my breasts touching you with each breath. My nipples are hard, sensitive, and reacting to the light stimulation. I look down at them briefly, then my gaze is drawn to the bulge in your pants. I bite my lip and move my hand to the cord that keeps them on. I look back up at you, once more needing reassurance.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 08:16 PM

"Do what you like love." He laughed softly arms half stretched and trying to relax, wanting to do so much but trying not to frighten her or push too fast. He had his eyes closed, focusing on her touch considering he couldn't see her more than a blurry and barely visible shadow. He smiled running a hand over her cheek, feeling the positioning of her face.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 08:24 PM

"Aeron, use my eyes." I urge, then tug the cord, loosening the front of your pants as your cock pushes against them. I return my hand to your stomach, turning into your hand on my cheek. My lips touch your hand, warm breath coming in rapid bursts of air.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 08:28 PM

"Why love?" He chuckled and tucked his head into her neck, licking gently, running over her chest to her breasts. He purred, a thumb rolling over her nipple. "I dont need to see to make you feel good."

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 08:42 PM

"oh--! oh!" I exclaim, my heart more than doubling it's speed as I gasp. "I-!! Aeron!" My hands shake, I pant, trying to catch my breath. I push my hand tentatively against your pants, wanting them off. I want to see you, all of you. As soon as your cock is free I pause, staring. I gently touch the head with my fingertips, then wrap my fingers around and rub my thumb over the ridge. "I want your pants off," i say, sitting up abruptly, releasing your cock to move down the bed beside you. I tug your pants down your thigh and off at each foot, then throw them off the bed, a bit more forcefully than I'd intended.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 08:46 PM

He chuckled softly, and grabbed her chin and bent to finally kiss her with a smile. He pushed her mouth open gently with his tongue and running it across her lip before pulling back. He let go of her chin to let her play.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 09:07 PM

I don't move, stunned for a moment, then my eyes seek out yours. I crawl over you, putting my face directly above yours. "I like that, I want more of that!" I say with confidence, my eyes going to your mouth before I lower my lips to yours hesitantly.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 09:17 PM

He purred and leaned to kiss her gently. Purring softly, he licked her lip again and cupped her cheek in a palm suckling her lip and tongue. Panting softly he held her sides with a smile and a purr.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 09:30 PM

i moan, hips grinding instinctively. My cheeks are flushed, and my hands shake. I sit up, just trying to think, to figure out what's going on, what you just did to me. "Aeron! Oh! I, that, w-wh--!!" I decide I don't care, and lean down again to kiss you. I start out awkwardly, but with a little encouragement it doesn't take long before I'm exploring your mouth, my hands tangled in your hair. I press against you, you can feel me trembling.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 09:36 PM

He patiently kept pace with her, gripping her ass gently and sitting up with her in his lap. His grunted softly as she pinned his aching cock between their stomachs. Shifting his kiss to her neck he sucked the thin skin delicately and his tongue rasped across her neck.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 09:45 PM

I gasp, my head falling back as I arch in your lap. My head tilts to give you more access to my neck. I grab onto your arms, tight, my nails biting into your skin. " "Aeron- nggh ah! Aeron, I li-ke it!" I pant as i glow brighter, uncontrollably.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 09:49 PM

He purred into her neck panting as he throbbed, groaning gently. He pulled from the crook of her neck half smiling. "Mm... so I should stop?" He teased half grinning.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 09:53 PM

I gasp, my hands coming to either side of your face as I shake my head. "Don't stop, please, don't stop, I want more!" Even my voice trembles, but I confidently plunge my tongue into your mouth again, grinding on your lap as I whimper.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 09:56 PM

He moaned at her force, purring and suckling at her tongue with his fingers digging into her ass. "Then how should I please you hmm?" He smiled softly pressing his thigh between her legs.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 10:04 PM

I arch, crying out and rocking on your thigh. I look confused at your question, seeking your eyes again as I frown. "I d-! I...you don't know?" I ask, bewildered.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 10:10 PM

"I'm asking your preference love." He purred with a quiet chuckle. "What you want to feel." He quickly rolled her under hip, propping himself up and pressing a kiss to the bone of her chest.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 10:18 PM

I gasp, grabbing onto you tightly. "You! I want to feel you, Aeron, over me, all around me, inside of me, everywhere! I want you!" I sound almost frantic, and the look I give you is desperate. "Please, Aeron, I want to feel you!"

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 10:22 PM

He pinned her arms away for a moment until he was sure she was settled and planted a kiss between her breasts, thumbs tucked over her hips. He flicked his tongue across one of her nipples, wiggling down to sit between her legs. He suckled softly at the peaked bud, rolling it with his tongue.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 10:43 PM

I try to stay settled, but every touch makes me move, makes my body buck, arch, and burn for more. I whimper, clenching my hands into fists. My knees bend, bracing my feet on the mattress. I can't move my hips, which makes me feel frantic, but when your mouth closes on my nipple I freeze. My eyes close and my hands go to your head, not keeping you there, just to be on you. "Aeron!" I moan, sounding just as needy, if not more. But I maintain a fragile, trembling control of my body.

Aeron BOT 30-Nov-21 10:52 PM

He groaned softly at her voice, and very gently bit her nipple then licked away the slight pain, purring and switched to the other. His hips bucked gently instincts demanding he claim her.

Celeste BOT 30-Nov-21 11:39 PM

my hands clench in your hair as I moan. I pant softly, chest rising and falling rapidly. I watch you as you give my body exactly the attention I've been craving, fulfilling a desire and igniting a deeper need

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 08:46 AM

He smiled softly at her grip, gently skimming a finger over her heat. Sliding his fingers between her folds carefully, he tucked his face into her neck purring.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 08:51 AM

my hips rise, pressing into your touch as I cry out softly. My voice trembles. The sound and feeling of your purr has my head tilt back, eyes sliding closed. I'm not sure if I'm even breathing, and I don't care. Every thing you do, every touch, every kiss, makes fire erupt over my skin. I don't know what to do, how to react, so I just feel and enjoy it.

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 10:16 AM

he did things irritatingly slow, and from the look on his face he was doing it completely on purpose. He ran a fingertip around her entrance with a smile, "God I love that sound."

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 10:23 AM

I whimper again, body trembling, skin slip with sweat. I'm ready, dripping wet doesn't begin to describe the state I'm in. I pant as my heart races, I look and feel absolutely desperate. I don't know how much more I can take

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 11:50 AM

He purred pulling her to his waist, propping himself up over her and kissing her throat. He pressed his shaft to her entrance chewing his lip. "Shall I?" He asked softly. He needed her proper answer, he felt. It was a necessity.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 12:25 PM

feverish hands wrap around you tight, I feel you press against my entrance and respond instinctively, hips bucking, pulling you close. "Yes, Aeron, yes, please, anything!" I pant, needing you,

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 01:00 PM

He smiled pushing into her and groaned at her heat, holding the crook of her knee against his side. He purred thrusting gently into her and his head dragged across her walls. He chewed his lip shuddering softly.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 01:09 PM

I writhe under you, surprised by the sharp pain that lances through me as you enter me. I grab onto you tightly, letting out a small, shocked exclamation, almost a sob. I meet your eyes, and I can't help myself. I kiss you, deeply, thrusting my tongue into your mouth as you thrust into me.

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 01:12 PM

He kept his gentle pace, switching to hold her hair and to keep himself propped up. He pressed to his base and moaned against her mouth.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 01:15 PM

you sink fully into me and I break the kiss to arch against you, moaning. "Aeron! That's it! That's exactly where I need you!" I cry out, panting.

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 01:23 PM

He covered her mouth gently laughing silently unable to help himself. "I dont want to be kicked out love." He chuckled softly and kissed her, holding her waist. He rolled his hips, purring "you going to stay quiet? Or do I need to keep my hand here?"

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 01:32 PM

I cry out, my body surging up to meet yours. I whimper, eyes locked on yours. I can't help it. I clamp my hand over yours tightly.

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 01:41 PM

he chuckled softly pulling her hips forward to bury to his base, forcing her legs apart at his sides.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 01:44 PM

I moan desperately against your hand, dissolving into soft whimpers

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 02:12 PM

He ran his thumb over her bottom lip as he kept gently sliding through her. He set her legs over his back his fingers digging into her thigh. He tucked his face into her neck unable to help himself. His touches were soft across her body, exploring her. He'd kept his contact so limited, he barely knew how she felt. He smiled softly kissing her throat. "Beautiful."

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 02:43 PM

I come alive with your touches, giving in to the bliss of having you this way. The pressure and friction builds up, slowly, working against your calming caresses. You go deeper when you raise my legs up, eliciting another cry. Tension builds and builds, your touches and kisses as you finally give me what I've wanted so badly push me to a frantic panic before I release. I can't help crying out loudly, my nails digging in to your skin, surging up from the bed.

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 05:16 PM

He silenced it slightly by kissing her, and took her wrists in his hands to pin above her. To be close like this felt like perfection. Like he was made whole. He sucked her tongue reveling in her being, this goddess that graced him with her light. He never wanted this to end. Aeron silently propped himself up putting his forehead to hers and he rolled his hips, more so for her own pleasure than himself.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 05:22 PM

I collapse under you, panting, whimpering, feeling incredibly complete. You hold my arms above my head, resting your head against mine as I tremble and quake with the powerful feeling that just wasted through me. "Aeron!" I whisper as I try to catch my breath. "I love you."

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 05:24 PM

He purred softly at her words, murmuring "I love you." To her. "More than life itself."

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 05:30 PM

I look down our bodies, seeing us joined together. My heart has never felt so happy. "I don't want it to end, I want to be here forever with you."

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 05:39 PM

He laughed softly kissing her then murmured "this isn't going to be comfortable for much longer..." he teased softly and gently pulled out of her kissing her neck.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 05:43 PM

I gasp as you pull out, my hands twisting in your grip as I try to pull free and grab hold

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 05:45 PM

He let go, not realizing he was still pining her and stretched his hands. "Sorry..."

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 07:18 PM

my eyes widen, and my hands fly to your face. I sit up,pressing against you, kissing you. My hands move over you, not caring that you are slick with sweat and sex. When I finally break the kiss and lean my forehead against yours, slightly out of breath, its to say quietly, "you have nothing to be sorry for. Never say you are sorry for that, never!"

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 07:25 PM

He smiled softly and nuzzled her nose with his. "Its time for you to sleep." He stated, and rolled to flop down next to her pulling the blanket up over them both.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 07:50 PM

"you will too? You'll stay with me?" I ask, frowning as I settle against you.

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 08:01 PM

he smiled petting her hair. "I'm right here. All night." He tucked her close to him.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 08:46 PM

I wake up in my glade, my brethren beside me. He stands abruptly, the moment I wake he struggles to his feet, blowing and snorting. Something is wrong. I stand as he trots away from me. "Wait!" I try to call to him, but no sound comes from my mouth. I run after him, and he runs from me, whinneying, ears back, head low. He breaks into a full gallop. No matter how fast I run, I can never catch him at a gallop. Yet, he runs recklessly, careening into logs and trees, getting tangled in bushes. "You'll hurt yourself! Please! Stop!" I pleade silently. He won't slow down, just becomes more frantic, slamming into a tree so hard he collapses. I gain some ground as he struggles to right himself, caught in the undergrowth. Before I can reach him, though, he has his feet under him and is running before I can reach him. He limps, badly. His sides are lathered with sweat, he pants hard, and he is slowing. When he hears my behind him he screams and finds new speed. "Why are you doing this??!" I scream, tears flowing freely. "You'll kill yourself! Stop! Let me heal you! Come back!" I sob, watching as he stumbles again, falling to his knees. His sides are lathered with pink foam now, and his eyes roll wildly. When he gets to his feet he leaps through a thick, leafy bush and out of my sight. "No!" I scream, "come back!" I reach the bush and put my arms up to protect my face as I can run right through like he did. I burst out of the brush and stop abruptly before I get to close. The other side of the brush. There is the unicorn. He screams silently, rearing up and lashing out with his hooves as people surround him, throwing ropes over him. He tries to run but the ropes pull tight around him. I stand there, terrified, unable to move as a rope tightens around his hind legs. He goes down, hitting the ground hard. A man with a sharp blade leaps onto him, I see his face, as he brings the blade down,--

I scream, pushing you away, hitting and kicking, sobbing, fighting for my life! I don't know where I am, or who I am fighting, but any touch makes me flinch away, laying out and crying out.

reddeR 01-Dec-21 08:48 PM

*Lashing

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 08:50 PM

"Hey hey hey..." he grabbed her wrists firmly. "Celeste." He put a hand to her cheek trying to keep her still. "Love. Look at me. Its a dream." He said softly tipping up her face.

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 09:20 PM

I fight just a few more moments before confusion sets in. I look around holding on to you, hands shaking, then burst into tears. I turn into you and cry, heartbreaking sobs that seem like they won't ever stop. But eventually they do stop. "My brother is in trouble, Aeron. He's hurt. Hunters...hunters are after him." I say with conviction. "He needs help."

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 09:33 PM

He held her to him gently humming as he tried to calm her down. "Just calm down. Hush love." He cupped her cheek gently. "You're sure? He needs help?"

Celeste BOT 01-Dec-21 10:08 PM

the moment you ask, I loose my conviction. I frown, turning into you, breathing deeply. Your presence is calming, and my alarm begins to fade as you hold me. I gradually relax into you, my eyes closing slowly.

Aeron BOT 01-Dec-21 10:10 PM

"ah. No. Talk to me." He shook her gently. "What did you dream?"

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 12:32 AM

"it was a dream, wasn't it? It couldn't be real. It was just a dream." I say sleepily. "I'm sleepy Aeron..." I curl into you, closing my eyes again.

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 07:09 AM

"not yet. Talk. " he begged gently. "Please."

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 12:20 PM

my eyelids flicker. As much as I want to forget it, I still recall the dream vividly. "They were killing him. They had ropes, and he was hurt, and...someone had a knife..." I say quietly. "It was a dream, right? I'm tired, Aeron, please, let's go back to sleep?"

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 01:04 PM

he got up, pulling on a pair of trousers. "You can sleep on the horse, love. Dreams have meaning."

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 01:05 PM

my eyes snap open and fill with tears. "No! Not this one! It c-cant be! H-he can't be--!!"

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 01:12 PM

"I'm not saying thats exactly whats happening. But I don't want to risk it." He held out a dress to her.

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 01:17 PM

I take the dress and pull it on without another hesitation, then wipe my eyes and look at you with absolute trust. "You'll take me to him?" I ask, "even when he wouldn't heal you?

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 05:17 PM

"Yes. Because even I didn't want to kill him. And its my job to kill." He said softly kissing her forehead. "Head out to the horse, while I pay alright? "

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 05:50 PM

I close my eyes at your kiss on my forehead, a hint of a smile on my lips. Then I nod and head out to the stable. The mare knickers softly, letting me know where she is, and I find a brush to start brushing her down. She gives me a hard time about it, like usual, so that by the time you get there I'm laughing and trying to reach the back of a horse who insists on licking my hand every time I reach for her. "Yuuck! That was between my fingers!" I squeel as the horse let's out a perfect equine approximation of laughter."

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 06:03 PM

he chuckled softly and tossed the blankets and saddle over her back, tightening it down. He rubbed his face gently and set her on the horses back, taking the reigns.

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 06:18 PM

when you lift me onto the horse, my reaction surprises me. Your hands gripping my waist reminds me of...your hands gripping my waist... I blush, flustered by the simple act. When you take up the reins and walk I'm even more flustered. "You aren't going to ride with me?" I ask quietly.

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 06:21 PM

"I need to wake up." He groaned softly smiling.

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 06:55 PM

I fall silent, thinking. Then a slow smile grows on my face. "Well, maybe...I could help you wake up?" I say, blushing.

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 07:07 PM

He went pink to his ears, laughing gently as he led the horse out of the city. "Hush love." He chuckled.

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 07:41 PM

I can't help smiling even more as you call me "love". I sigh happily and wrap my arms around my middle, hugging myself tight. Once we pass through the gate I slide off of the horse and slip my hand in yours, walking with you. I glow faintly as soon as my fingers lace with yours.

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 07:48 PM

He smiled softly, "you do know I can hold your hand on the horse." He chuckled gently looking over to her kissing the side of her temple.

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 07:53 PM

I just bring your hand to press against my lips and walk close to you, content to be near you, and don't say a word. After a bit, having had nothing to do but think as we walked back the way we had just come, I speak up. "Aeron, what about your guild?" I ask, "is...is everything alright with them now?"

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 08:07 PM

"Not necessarily. I'm removed." He shrugged gently. "I'm not bothering with it. And Master won't send men after me, as I'm his son by adoption I suppose."

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 08:12 PM

I blink with surprise, frowning. "That man? That was your father?" I whisper. "He wouldn't let me heal him. He didn't want it. Just like...you wouldn't let me heal you..."

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 08:20 PM

"It's... different. He's elderly, and there's no healing away years. I... I haven't looked like you do since I was a child. I..." don't want to look at myself. he tacked on in his head.

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 08:33 PM

I take a breath and blow it out slowly. "I can't make you, and I only want it for selfish reasons." I admit quietly. "I just...want you to see me, I want you to know what I look like, to know what color my eyes are. I want you to s-see my face when you are...inside of me..." I step closer, wrapping my arm around yours and lacing our fingers together again.

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 08:45 PM

He sighed softly petting her cheek with a knuckle and setting her back on the horse, pulling himself up behind her. "There's more to life than seeing color and form."

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 09:14 PM

"there's nothing at all as beautiful as the face of someone you love." I turn and look up at you, "there's nothing more beautiful to me, Aeron." I lean onto your chest, resting against your shoulder. "I can't imagine having never seen you. I can close my eyes and see your face."

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 09:28 PM

"I feel your face under my fingers." He smiled gently tapping her nose. "I have debated letting you correct my eyes." He admitted.

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 09:31 PM

"I would want you to see me first, Aeron. The one thing you can't see with my eyes, I want you to see first. What happened to your eyes?" I ask quietly.

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 09:39 PM

"I..." he winced. "If I tell you, you must keep your judgment to yourself please..." he said softly and at her nod he sighed again talking hesitantly. "When I turned six, I became old enough to work, and my father could no longer ignore my presence while keeping his approval in the community. So he had to deal with me. He became sick of my "Faen eyes." So he took a pin to them."

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 09:42 PM

my hand flies to your chest and curls into a fist, gripping your shirt as it trembles. I don't say anything.

Aeron BOT 02-Dec-21 09:54 PM

"He thought it'd... gray out my eyes I suppose. Like born blind gray I suppose. All it did was damage my eyes, not change their color. But it didn't matter as my being a half fae granted me other forms of sight... and he paid for what he did."

Celeste BOT 02-Dec-21 10:24 PM

I still don't say anything. My fist presses into your chest, tension rolls off of me, but I hold my tongue.

Aeron BOT 03-Dec-21 06:34 AM

He hugged her silently but sighed, telling his story nearly exhausting. "So... yea."

Celeste BOT 03-Dec-21 10:21 AM

I stay quiet, resting against you, hearing your heart beat within your chest. I ache for you, my heart breaking as I imagine the terror you must have felt. I want to weep, but I know that would only make you wish you hadn't told me. I relax against you, turn my head up to kiss your jaw, and quietly whisper against your skin. "I still love you."

Aeron BOT 03-Dec-21 03:05 PM

He held his necklace amulet, wondering if she fully understood but let it go, clicking to the horse to go faster. Once he got close he could shadow step straight to the glen.

Celeste BOT 03-Dec-21 03:29 PM

I sit up more, leaning back on you, facing forward with a smile as we pick up speed. "Can she run with both of us?" I ask

Aeron BOT 03-Dec-21 03:49 PM

"For a little while. I dont want to waste any time." He smiled softly, keeping her steady. He closed his eyes fully to listen to her hooves against the cobble.

Celeste BOT 03-Dec-21 04:29 PM

I lean forward, arms spread wide, and let out a loud, long whoop! "Let's go, Marda!" I shout, placing my hands on her, on either side of her neck. I glow brightly as I give her energy, lending strength to tired muscles, energy to each step. Marda breaks into a full gallop, invigorated by my gift to her.

Aeron BOT 04-Dec-21 07:54 AM

he yelped grabbing the saddle then laughed gently. "Warn me next time." He kissed her throat.

Celeste BOT 04-Dec-21 08:13 AM

"I did!" I say, laughing. I try to catch my hair so it doesn't whip you in the face

Aeron BOT 04-Dec-21 01:28 PM

he chuckled softly, setting his chin on her shoulder. He tipped his head into her, purring.

Celeste BOT 04-Dec-21 01:36 PM

I feel more than hear your purring. I gasp, enjoying the warmth it sends to my core. I reach up and caress you, turning my head to kiss the side of yours. I know that if I let her, Marda will run until her heart gives out. After a while I slow her down, gentle touches on her neck and shoulder calm her enough for you to reign her in. We both dismount to walk with her for a time. As we walk quietly, my mind returns to the dream. My brethren, in pain, and they were hurting him more. Tears slide down my cheeks as I stare ahead vacantly. "I hope it's not too late." I whisper.

Aeron BOT 04-Dec-21 02:34 PM

"If it is then I have a contract." He said softly wiping her cheeks gently with his sleeve.

Celeste BOT 04-Dec-21 02:43 PM

I look up at you, catching your hand and gazing up at your eyes. Then I turn and keep walking, not saying a word. It's not that I want you to kill, but if the unicorn is killed... I shudder, subconsciously walking a bit faster.

Aeron BOT 06-Dec-21 04:06 PM

he kept her reigns in hand, regretting his saying it at her silence. He twisted the leather cords in his fingers. Her pushing Marda cut alot of time from their travel. He reached out mentally for the glen but felt it slip away before he could rip open a path. "Just a bit farther and I can step..."

Celeste BOT 06-Dec-21 05:01 PM

I look at you curiously, then realize what you are planning. I don't like that other place. The one time you carried me through there, when I was ill with your illness, I only vaguely remember. I know there was no glitter in that place, no life/magic. Like it or not, it's the fastest way to get us where we are going, and I'm willing to try it again.

Aeron BOT 06-Dec-21 05:16 PM

He eventually got a hold, the place being a center hub of activity. Leading Marda to the side he took hold of the paths in his mind. Twisting, serpentine things that he had to keep grip on and force apart. He was a bit farther than he should've been, but he could step if he moved quick. He ordered Marda to stay near, and took Celeste wrist a bit harder than he meant and forced open a path. Clawing... suffocating... like digging through oil that filled his lungs and his head. He kept a grip on her hand and quite literally fell through the other side, his door having been higher than he expected. He hit the grass coughing, drenched in sweat.

Celeste BOT 06-Dec-21 05:58 PM

I cling to your wrist as hard as you clutch mine. I grab onto you as you fall, falling with you. When I sit up and look around, I'm disoriented and confused. I hold tight to you, not sure what is going on.

Aeron BOT 06-Dec-21 06:28 PM

"How close... are we? I lost it a bit at the end..." he panted softly pushing himself up. "We should be close to the glen..." he scrubbed his face trying to get the sensation off his skin.

Celeste BOT 06-Dec-21 09:04 PM

I look around, squinting to peer into the trees. I edge closer to you, grab your hand as I turn and peer in another direction. As I look around I gradually begin to luminesce brighter and brighter. My eyes brighten to their liquid gold color, everything about me becomes clearer, sharper, more enhanced, to those who have eyes to see it. The moment I grab your hand, I flood you with sparks. I want to, because you need it, after passing through the shadows like that, but also, the moment I touch you you start pulling it from me at an impressive rate. A fact which I pay little heed to, as the moment I entered the Kingswood I could feel the life/magic I produce increasing drastically. If I could look at myself with my own eyes, I would see an eruption of glitter the like of which I'd never seen. And while this massive amount of glitter was produced, every spark of it was pulled to you, sucked in, absorbed by your darkness and shadow greedily, insatiably. Like your darkness would consume as much of my light as possible, and would only produce more, the more you take. "We are in the Kingswood, I can feel it. But I don't know where in the Kingswood we are." I admit. I close my eyes, reaching out with my mind, feeling for my brethren. I reach as far as I can, seeking him, needing to find him. "Aeron, I don't know if my brother is here." I whisper fearfully.

Aeron BOT 06-Dec-21 09:40 PM

"Can you sense if he is alive at all?" He sent out his own tendrils of thought, searching. Carrion. Carcasses. He couldn't find anything specifically saying it was the unicorn.

Celeste BOT 06-Dec-21 11:32 PM

I scrub my hand across my eyes as they sting with tears, not wanting to cry again. I've never thought about what it would be like if he were dead. It was bad enough when he walked away- I can't imagine what it would be like for half of me to die. "He's alive. I know he is." I say without conviction.

Aeron BOT 07-Dec-21 07:08 AM

"Then let's buckle down and look, alright?" He smiled softly.

Celeste BOT 07-Dec-21 08:53 AM

I nod decisively, determined to find him. But first I take your face in my hands and kiss you, slowly, deeply. Unknown to me, the glitter that pours from my mouth to yours in that kiss is more than I've given you the whole time we've been together. I do notice some sensation, other than the feeling I get when I kiss you. But it rapidly fades, and I slip my hand in yours. "Don't let go, please, Aeron." I ask quietly. I shine brighter than ever before, and I keep in step with you easily enough as you lead us through the wood. I realize where we are when I realize why I don't recognise this area. I have never been to this part of Kingswood. My brethren always avoided certain parts of Kingswood. He had never told me why we never go there. Only that we must not everyone to these places.

Aeron BOT 07-Dec-21 08:58 AM

"Not like I can see on my own..." he chuckled picking through the undergrowth carefully. He flipped a knife in hand silently at the shift of sensation.

Celeste BOT 07-Dec-21 11:54 AM

I look at you and smile, shaking my head slightly. I close my eyes and gently nudge your awareness to my own eyes, then open them, showing you the Kingswood. Everywhere there is glitter, one every surface, in the air, everywhere. Except near you. You pull the glitter into yourself. "You can see, Aeron." I say, keeping behind you and off to the side so you can see where you are stepping.

Aeron BOT 07-Dec-21 05:51 PM

He chuckled softly, ignoring himself and wincing anytime he caught sight

Celeste BOT 07-Dec-21 08:16 PM

I/you watch as I slip my hand into yours, then bring your hand to press against my lips. I don't release your hand, but you know immediately when I pause and look around slowly, suddenly tense and alert.

Aeron BOT 08-Dec-21 07:16 AM

He gripped the blade tightly, keeping her close to him. "What is it?" He asked softly glancing to her. He spread his mental thoughts feeling out around him. He was unsure if he knew how to do the same, but he trusted her sight.

Celeste BOT 08-Dec-21 11:45 AM

I turn carefully, slowly moving my eyes so I don't disorient you more than necessary. What I had seen was a disruption of the natural motion of the life/magic glitter. Kingswood is filled with more of this magic than elsewhere, because of the presence of fae such as myself and the unicorn, who, simply by existing, produce it in unlimited amounts. Seen as tiny speckles of light, or glitter, this force is always in motion. The only way to disrupt the natural motion of the glitter is, like you, to be a type of fae that affects it in some way. "I don't know, but something is there. I don't see it now, but I know it was there a moment ago." I turn toward you just in time to see a fae shadows top into the area ahead of us come rushing toward you silently, weilding a silver sword. I gasp at how suddenly it appears, step back and trip. Though I fall to the ground, I don't blink or look away. I keep him within my sight, your sight, determined to make sure you can see.

Aeron BOT 08-Dec-21 12:26 PM

He caught the blade on the armor on his forearm, the other hand gripped around the handle, teeth bared with strain. "Who are you?" He kept the blade still and braced against his armor.

Celeste BOT 08-Dec-21 12:40 PM

the fae opened its inhumanely wide face, revealing rows of Razor sharp, needle like teeth, and lunged forward, aiming for your head, which would fit completely within its gaping mouth. It unfurls huge, insect like wings and drives itself forward, pushing with the sword as it attempts to close its jaws over your head.

Aeron BOT 08-Dec-21 01:09 PM

he grunted in pain at the force and twisted back in an attempt to get around it to the left, snarling with strain. "Celeste run."

He forced his knife under its throat aiming for the joint of the spine. His armored braces would protect his limbs against most attacks but bite force was a risk. Hed never tried to heal back a full arm.

Celeste BOT 08-Dec-21 07:10 PM

"no!" I keep my eyes on you, stand up and circle slowly. The fae let's out a blood-curdling cry and drive you back farther. Careful not to look at what I'm doing, I grab a large branch. The other fae doesn't seem to pay any attention to me. I circle around behind it, then start inching closer. My heart races, pounding in my chest. I get close enough, then swing the branch as hard as I can, catching it in the face as it rears back to lunge forward again. It is caught off gaurd, and the branch catches it by the teeth, jerking it's head to the side and making it stumble. It turns on me, shrieks again as it gnashes the end of the branch in its mouth, and throws itself at me.

Aeron BOT 08-Dec-21 07:29 PM

He grabbed the beast around the throat jabbing the blade into its flesh, riding it like a bull until it fell under his weight. He panted softly wiping blood from his arm. "Damn..." he smiled her way. "Thank you."

Celeste BOT 08-Dec-21 07:33 PM

for the first time since the fae appeared behind you I close my eyes, squeezing them shut tight for a moment. Fear prevents me from keeping them closed long. Then I realize what I just did and sit down hard. "Aeron, Aeron I didn't run." I say, sounding fairly stunned. I've only ever run when I was afraid, sharing a basic flight instinct with my equine brethren. "Aeron, I didn't want to run!"

Aeron BOT 08-Dec-21 07:41 PM

"You protected your home. You didn't want to leave me." He said softly, rolling the corpse to examine it carefully running his fingers over its skin and teeth. "Its an Unseelie. A dark fae. My full-blooded kin." He muttered to himself.

Celeste BOT 08-Dec-21 07:49 PM

"I know." I say, not going near it. "I could see that." The other fae had been made of shadow, and pulled the glitter from everything around it. I could tell it and you were similar. "My brother never came to this part of Kingswood. I never knew why. There are many places in Kingswood he would never go." I look around nervously. "Maybe we should...get out of here. I can't feel him. In my dream, he ran from the Glen." I frown, closing my eyes and remembering. "It was so vivid. Like I was really there." I whisper, remembering how he had run from me in terror.

Aeron BOT 08-Dec-21 07:55 PM

"Yes. Let's go." He went to her silently. She realized he had probably never seen any other fae apart from the few halflings in cities like the ones in his guild. He flicked blood from his arm.

Celeste BOT 09-Dec-21 06:37 PM

"Aeron, are you OK? It didn't...touch you, did it?" I ask softly. I know some fae have venom, or magical effects associated with them. I can heal most things, but I have to know about them. I put my hands on you as soon as you get close enough, feeling your condition.

Aeron BOT 09-Dec-21 06:49 PM

"I'm fine." He said softly holding the amulet around his neck silently. She realized it was the rough carving off a cat, worn nearly completely smoothed. He turned walking with her. "Just thinking of my mother."

Celeste BOT 09-Dec-21 07:52 PM

I look at you curiously, wondering what she had been like. But I don't pry. I take your free hand in mine and bring it up to press against my lips, then smile at you. "I'm here for you now, Aeron. I'm always going to be here for you, no matter what."

Aeron BOT 09-Dec-21 07:57 PM

"She was one of them. But she wasn't this way." He gestured to the corpse. "She was like you. Beautiful and patient." He said softly.

Celeste BOT 09-Dec-21 09:33 PM

I blush, but don't try to hide it. I know you can't see it. But it doesn't make sense. "Aeron, if...if she was like me, then..." I frown, not at all certain how unseelie are created, as it has nothing to do with life/magic.

Aeron BOT 10-Dec-21 07:35 AM

"Just... mourning." He smiled and ruffled her hair. "Lets go find that damned unicorn."

Celeste BOT 10-Dec-21 01:08 PM

I giggle, smiling up at you. "I'm pretty sure a unicorn is the opposite of damned, Aeron!

Aeron BOT 10-Dec-21 01:22 PM

He stuttered over an explanation then just laughed shaking his head. "Nevermind." He snorted following her.

Celeste BOT 10-Dec-21 01:42 PM

"do you think you can shadow step to the Glen from here?" I ask, looking up at the sky after walking for some time.

Aeron BOT 10-Dec-21 02:22 PM

he felt out carefully, mentally sore. "Possibly. It'll be dangerous if I try too much. Its... hard to find the path in here."

Celeste BOT 10-Dec-21 04:33 PM

I shake my head, concerned. "If it's risky, don't do It. I would like to be at the glade for night, but we can make camp here too. After you've rested, maybe it will be easier to find the way."

Aeron BOT 10-Dec-21 08:10 PM

"Id try but I'm worried it'd kill me which would leave you stuck between." He said softly. She couldn't imagine it. The slow, thick suffocation.

Celeste BOT 10-Dec-21 08:18 PM

"we can make camp then, it's fine." I look around a bit for a suitable clearing we can make a small fire in. I've gotten used to having a fire, though I'm not opposed to just curling up and sharing body heat.

Aeron BOT 10-Dec-21 08:51 PM

"Not in here. Don't want to light up the woods." He smiled softly pulling blankets from the pack he carried.

Celeste BOT 10-Dec-21 09:43 PM

I see the blankets and smile, pressing my hand to my tummy as that warm, fluttery, good feeling returns. I really don't mind sharing body heat. Not at all. I clear the sticks and rocks from a fairly well covered area where a tall tree, a fallen log, and a large bush make a sort of enclosed space under the bush. We have to crawl, but it's dry and hidden. I drag the blankets in before you can protest, pleased with myself for finding it.

Aeron BOT 11-Dec-21 08:47 AM

he followed her silently, curling around her, pulling her to his chest. He wrapped his arm around her waist, burying his face in her hair.

Celeste BOT 11-Dec-21 10:49 AM

"Aeron?" I say, tucking myself close. I tangle our legs together and wrap my arms around you, then -almost forgetting and nuzzling anyway- I start to kiss into your neck and shoulder.

Aeron BOT 12-Dec-21 01:59 PM

"hmm?" He answered smiling softly and gently petting her hair. "Whats the matter, love?"

Celeste BOT 12-Dec-21 02:46 PM

I settle my head onto your shoulder, close enough that my warm breath dances over your skin. "Nothin, nothing at all, anymore. This is what I've wanted since we left the Kingswood, this, right here. Your arms around me, your body next to mine." I say happily, my voice fading and sleepy.

Aeron BOT 12-Dec-21 08:14 PM

He chuckled softly holding her tightly to him. He set his head back. He needed to find others of their kind, find an explanation for his near obsessive need to protect her. He tucked his face to her smiling faintly as he drifted off.

Celeste BOT 12-Dec-21 09:25 PM

I wake up and you are nowhere to be found. The air is hazy, dusty, hard to breathe. I crawl out from under the bush, coughing and gasping. "Aeron?" I cry out, "Aeron!" Outside the air is worse, thick with smoke or dust, I can't tell. I call out for you, coughing and squinting into the haze. I startbwalking, and it gets worse. I can't see my hand in front of my face. Breathing is painful, burning. Ahead of me, I see a faint glow and hear a horse knicker. "Brother!" I cry out, running toward the light. I hear him scream. I can't move fast enough, the haze makes it so difficult to breathe! I try and try, but get no closer before I trip on something, landing hard and cutting my hands. "Brother! Where are you?!" I scream. He sounds close when he screams again. Tears pour down my cheeks, the thick air burns my eyes and throat. "Aeron?! Brother!!?" I cry out, "Aeron! Help me! Where are you?" I scream. The unicorn screams again, leaping into the small space where I have visibility. "Brother!" I stagger to my feet and lurch toward him. He rears, lashing out at me, and turns to run from me. A dark shape leaps onto his back, weilding a dirk made of black iron. He look at me, and I see his face. I wake up screaming, fighting, crying, and confused. I strike at you, flailing desperately, fighting unseen foes in my half-awake state.

Aeron BOT 13-Dec-21 07:25 AM

He held up his arms to block, simply waiting for her to calm down. "Its alright it was a dream!" He cried out after the barrage didn't cease. Grabbing her wrists He made her stop thrashing. "Celeste. It's alright."

Celeste BOT 13-Dec-21 10:34 AM

my eyes are open and unfocused, seeming to look right through you. You restrain me and I cry out for you, still struggling. "Aeron help me!" I plead, then my eyelids flutter and my eyes focus on you. Tears fall, I weep silently. I don't say anything, just pull myself into you, curling protectively around myself and into your sheltering arms. I tremble, to afraid to go back to sleep, and wait for daylight.

Aeron BOT 13-Dec-21 10:47 AM

He held her, humming a song he remembered and whispering the words. I was listenin' to the ocean I saw a face in the sand But when I picked it up Then it vanished away from my hands, down I had a dream I was seven Climbing my way in a tree I saw a piece of heaven Waiting impatient for me, down And I was runnin' far away Would I run off the world someday? Nobody knows Nobody knows, and I was dancing in the rain..." he murmured softly and kissed the top of her head.

Celeste BOT 13-Dec-21 01:33 PM

your song calms me, soothes me, helps me collect my thoughts and sort my dream from reality. I look up at you as you finish and press my lips to yours in a teary kiss. I mutter an apology, turning to wipe my tears away as I taste the salt on my lips. "I'm sorry, Aeron, I don't mean to make you wet." I say, wiping my tears away only for more to spill as I turn back to you.

Aeron BOT 13-Dec-21 01:37 PM

"No apologies." He smiled softly cleaning her cheeks with his sleeve. "I'm here to catch them all." He grinned.

Celeste BOT 13-Dec-21 03:00 PM

I smile a little bit and press myself against you. Then I let out a small sigh. "My brother, there was so much fog, I couldn't breathe. I tried to find you, or brother, and I couldn't. He found me, and ran from me again! Then the one with the knife..." I trail off, shaken again.

Aeron BOT 13-Dec-21 03:05 PM

Well it's alright now love." He purred softly holding her like she was glass. There wasn't a thing he could do for her dreams and it bothered him, his heart twinging with helplessness and pain. "It will be alright. I'll always help you."

Celeste BOT 13-Dec-21 03:44 PM

I look up at you with a pained expression. I can't tell you! I can't tell you who the man weilding the knife is! It makes fresh tears fall from my eyes, and I bury my face against your chest.

Aeron BOT 13-Dec-21 03:50 PM

"No matter what. I'll be there to help you." He reassured. He knew she was hiding something from him but he didn't pry. If she wanted to tell him she would. He closed his eyes, humming to himself.

Celeste BOT 13-Dec-21 04:25 PM

"oh, Aeron! I love you!" I kiss you again, deeply, pushing my tongue past your lips, tasting you. Savoring you. Enjoying the warm sensation spreading through me. Blushing, I break the kiss and push back against your shoulder. Once there I can't resist turning to kiss into your neck, my arms wrapping around you as I press close.

Aeron BOT 13-Dec-21 06:04 PM

He smiled softly holding tight to her fingers burying in her hair. "Its time to sleep love. We need to wake up early."

Celeste BOT 13-Dec-21 06:21 PM

"Yes, Aeron, just...keep me close, please." I quietly request. I keep my face tucked to your neck and hook my leg through yours, tangling us together. I'm afraid to go back to sleep. I don't want to have any more dreams.

Aeron BOT 13-Dec-21 06:26 PM

"I'm right here." He reassured, setting a hand on her back. He held her close until she fell asleep before allowing himself to go back to sleep.

Celeste BOT 13-Dec-21 09:37 PM

I wake up when the woods lighten in daylight. It's chilly out, but under the blankets with you is warm. I don't want to leave, so keep very still and wait for your to wake up, taking the opportunity to look at you as much as I like. I feel safe with you, safe and wanted and absolutely loved. For a moment I don't even remember my dream. When I do I sit up, gasping, and frantically urge you awake. "Aeron! Aeron! It's morning!" I look down at you as you start to wake up and can't help smiling as your eyes open. I stroke your cheek gently, then kiss your lips, then crawl to the entrance of the shelter. Outside is shrouded in fog. I freeze, then back slowly away from the opening before I turn and seek the comfort of you arms. "It's just like my dream!" I whisper, shivering.

Aeron BOT 14-Dec-21 07:46 AM

He stretched groaning gently looking around. "Still wind today. It'll make it easier for me." He murmured and rolled up the blankets tieing them down and held out an apple to her. "Lets walk and eat."

Celeste BOT 14-Dec-21 01:18 PM

I grin and accept the apple. It distracts me for a bit, as I happily crunch down the whole thing. I stay close, never more than arms reach from you. The fog has me more freaked out than I'll admit.

Aeron BOT 15-Dec-21 08:34 AM

He had no trouble seeing through it, his vision locking onto forms of solid movement. Nothing big. Nothing yet to fear he hoped. He silently held out his apple to her keeping his eyes elsewhere.

Celeste BOT 15-Dec-21 11:32 AM

I take the second apple happily enough. It's a simple trick, but keeps me from focusing on the eerieness around me. I still stay quite close to you, the only sounds the crunching of the apple as I eat it.

Aeron BOT 15-Dec-21 05:14 PM

He kept his eyes out then refocused her attention on tracking down her brother. He felt more in tune with what gifts he had, never having used them as often as he did with her. Sending out his thoughts he felt for others in the vain hope he could sense them before they attacked. His armor couldn't hold up against much more force.