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childrenofbahamutlogs2024-11-01 12:15 pm
diceofthegods) wrote in childrenofbahamutlogs2024-11-01 12:15 pm
EVENT #1: FAE FESTIVITIES
INTO THE WOODS
Click Clock Wood (Spring) by Grant Kirkhope
2:05 / 4:59
▶︎
Grant Kirkhope is a Scottish composer and voice actor for video games and film. Some of his notable works include GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, Donkey Kong 64, and Perfect Dark, among many others.
After making your way through the tiny farming town of Ich and out towards the rim of a massive raised crater, you will find yourself being led through a narrow split in the canyon wall. Inside, glow worms cling to the ceiling and create the illusion of a thousand twinkling stars above the moistened rocks.
When you finally emerge, it is into an impossibly lush landscape of massive, redwood-sized tangling trees and a soft moss carpet. Life abounds here. It feels like an oasis of birdsong and animal activity.
A short walk leads you to the prepared party-grounds. A large clearing with quaint huts all around decorated with strange flowers for partygoers to rest or otherwise entertain themselves.
There appear to be several games and stalls set up, the sweet and savory scents of delicious food fills the air, and so do the patrons of the forest. Seemingly hundreds of Fae folk zip around and greet the newcomers excitedly by placing garlands of vines and crowns of flowers atop their heads.
Glowing flowers and toadstools light your way here. It also seems that even the animals get in on the festivities! Really, just about everything talks here. Almost everything, anyways! Talking to a tree stump might not yield many results but you're welcome to try.
Each entrant is also provided upon arrival a copy of The Rules. A rolled parchment that resists water or any other damage. It also prevents you from writing on it so you can't just do what you want.
The rules read as follows:
When you finally emerge, it is into an impossibly lush landscape of massive, redwood-sized tangling trees and a soft moss carpet. Life abounds here. It feels like an oasis of birdsong and animal activity.
A short walk leads you to the prepared party-grounds. A large clearing with quaint huts all around decorated with strange flowers for partygoers to rest or otherwise entertain themselves.
There appear to be several games and stalls set up, the sweet and savory scents of delicious food fills the air, and so do the patrons of the forest. Seemingly hundreds of Fae folk zip around and greet the newcomers excitedly by placing garlands of vines and crowns of flowers atop their heads.
Glowing flowers and toadstools light your way here. It also seems that even the animals get in on the festivities! Really, just about everything talks here. Almost everything, anyways! Talking to a tree stump might not yield many results but you're welcome to try.
Each entrant is also provided upon arrival a copy of The Rules. A rolled parchment that resists water or any other damage. It also prevents you from writing on it so you can't just do what you want.
The rules read as follows:
- DO:
- ⁂ Accept gifts from the Fae.
⁂ Sample the food provided at the party ONLY.
⁂ Play games with the Fae.
⁂ Feel at ease to rest in the provided huts.
⁂ Keep tabs on your shadow lest it wander.
- ⁂ Make a TRADE with the Fae.
⁂ Provide any personal items as gifts or otherwise to the Fae.
⁂ Provide your true name to the Fae.
⁂ Wander away from the designated party area.
⁂ Ascend any staircases you find in the woods.
- ⁂ If you see an old woman hiking through the area, feel free to stop her and lie to her. The more brazen and obvious the lie the better. She appreciates this!
GAMES & ENTERTAINMENT
Amongst the games and attractions are a variety of fun possibilities!
GAMES
- ⁂ Battleship! (Fae Style!) A number of Fae will be hiding on a large grid of flowers. You guess the locations and if you are correct then you will win a small prize! It is a cup of nectar that refills endlessly, and numbs any pains you may have. This works even outside of the forest and can be taken home.
Every time you miss though, you receive a small 'curse.' Nothing harmful! Maybe you’re just rotating in place for the next hour, your ears become daisies, or you grow a tree out of your head? (Feel free to come up with your own silly ideas!) All of the curses will dissipate after a time or upon leaving the forest and none will do any harm or cause pain. The Fae are all about fun tricks, not hurting anyone!
⁂ Dress Up Darlings! You enter a booth and allow the Fae to decide your outfit! Upon the agreement that you'll wear it the rest of the party, of course, no matter how silly or ridiculous it is.
⁂ Bobbing For Onions! Yes, you read that right. Bobbing for onions. There are onions floating around... in water. You have to catch them with your teeth. The prize for success is a Bag of Onions. This bag never runs out of onions. They are always fresh and always onions. Not always the same kind of onion, but always onions nonetheless. This bag works outside of the forest and can be taken home.
⁂ What's In The Box? There is a box. There is something in it. Maybe it's frogs. Maybe it's slugs. Possibly bugs? Maybe apples. We don’t know. Stick your hand in the box and take a guess at what you’re touching! If you’re right, you win the contents of the box!
We'll let players decide via coin flip, rolls, or however they want if their guess is correct! Any items won though will be common, every day items like mentioned and nothing especially exciting. Unless you're really into frogs. Then it's your lucky day, apparently!
ENTERTAINMENT
- ⁂ Slayd & The Possums! Slayd is here and he’s throwing down the banjo tunes with his possum pals. Feel free to join him if you are musically inclined! The Fae will provide any instrument your heart desires! They can't grant you the ability to play it though if you don't know how.
⁂ The Crowning of the King of Misrule! Randomly chosen by the Fae, enter a lottery to be chosen as the King of Misrule for the evening. You will be dressed in a stupid outfit and granted Fae wings for the night! You also have the insatiable urge to play harmless pranks on people. The Fae will also give you a "Special Gift" at the end of the party...
FOR THE FOOLISH
Ahh, but there are rule breakers amongst us aren't there? If you choose to sneak away from the party, chances are nobody will stop you; however, you are now on your own in the Talahee Forest.
The first layer of the forest is very much similar to what you have already seen. Everything is coated in a thick mat of moss and trees wind away like a massive birds nest to form the canopy above. The faint sounds of animals can still be heard. Up here, you may encounter Fae who did not attend the party. They'll ask you your name and other personal details.
Best that you lie.
The further in that you head, the darker the forest gets. It seems you are following a downward slope. The trees get bigger here, as do the insects and toadstools. Bioluminescence rules down here it seems. You may encounter stranger creatures here. Ones that will try to make very tempting trades for your personal belongings. Things that will seem like an amazing deal to you. They offer magical items of great power, or even personal effects from home.
Don't be fooled though. These objects are cursed, and are not at all what they seem. You have the distinct feeling of being watched at all times here.
⁂ Possible Encounters: Owlbear, Displacer Beast, Giant Badger
Are you getting smaller or is everything else getting bigger? Were Slayd here, he would have told you about the concept of Deep Forest Gigantism. The deeper you go - just like the ocean - the larger that the flora and fauna get.
You are dwarfed by the mushrooms here in the pitch darkness and only guided by the latent glow of the creatures and fungi that dwell here. Bugs the size of house-cats skitter in your wake. Are you sure you want to be here? Should you encounter anything larger, you’d best stay silent. Or run!
⁂ Possible Encounters: Giant predatory Elk (RUN), Rodents of Unusual Size, Extra Large Bugs
The trees seem to clear out here as you reach the bottom of the forest. There is no light here so hope you brought a match. The landscape down here is a blanket of moss dotted with countless shallow pools. Looking into one of these pools, you will see your reflection... though it may look different in some way.
You will feel extremely compelled to reach down and touch the reflection in the water. Should you give in, you feel as though your world is turning upside down. You could receive memories not quite your own. Memories of a different version of you, even! (CRAU, Canon Update, or Canon AU!)
Yet, you will be experiencing them as your own. A long time could pass in your mind while only seconds have only elapsed in reality. Upon waking, you will find that you have been ejected from the party and the forest entirely. You find yourself at the entrance to the crater. Disoriented, and compelled not to re-enter, you have only yourself to blame as you must shamble your way home with this burdensome knowledge.
FIRST LAYER
Rak'tika Greatwood Theme ( Civilizations ) by Masayoshi Soken
4:34 / 5:15
▶︎
"Civilizations" prominently features a female vocalist. The lyrics are in the Ronkan language, and has not been officially translated.
The first layer of the forest is very much similar to what you have already seen. Everything is coated in a thick mat of moss and trees wind away like a massive birds nest to form the canopy above. The faint sounds of animals can still be heard. Up here, you may encounter Fae who did not attend the party. They'll ask you your name and other personal details.
Best that you lie.
SECOND LAYER
Click Clock Wood (Autumn) by Grant Kirkhope
1:12 / 4:11
▶︎
Grant Kirkhope is a Scottish composer and voice actor for video games and film. Some of his notable works include GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, Donkey Kong 64, and Perfect Dark, among many others.
The further in that you head, the darker the forest gets. It seems you are following a downward slope. The trees get bigger here, as do the insects and toadstools. Bioluminescence rules down here it seems. You may encounter stranger creatures here. Ones that will try to make very tempting trades for your personal belongings. Things that will seem like an amazing deal to you. They offer magical items of great power, or even personal effects from home.
Don't be fooled though. These objects are cursed, and are not at all what they seem. You have the distinct feeling of being watched at all times here.
⁂ Possible Encounters: Owlbear, Displacer Beast, Giant Badger
THIRD LAYER
Saint Mocianne's Arboretum (Hard) by Masayoshi Soken
2:50 / 5:10
▶︎
...hordes of aggressive plant life exposed to the strange substance stand between you and the information you seek.
Are you getting smaller or is everything else getting bigger? Were Slayd here, he would have told you about the concept of Deep Forest Gigantism. The deeper you go - just like the ocean - the larger that the flora and fauna get.
You are dwarfed by the mushrooms here in the pitch darkness and only guided by the latent glow of the creatures and fungi that dwell here. Bugs the size of house-cats skitter in your wake. Are you sure you want to be here? Should you encounter anything larger, you’d best stay silent. Or run!
⁂ Possible Encounters: Giant predatory Elk (RUN), Rodents of Unusual Size, Extra Large Bugs
FOURTH LAYER
Poison Tree by Grouper
0:30 / 3:16
▶︎
'Poison Tree' is a meditation on the complexities of anger and the internal conflict it causes. It draws inspiration from William Blake's poem of the same name.
The trees seem to clear out here as you reach the bottom of the forest. There is no light here so hope you brought a match. The landscape down here is a blanket of moss dotted with countless shallow pools. Looking into one of these pools, you will see your reflection... though it may look different in some way.
You will feel extremely compelled to reach down and touch the reflection in the water. Should you give in, you feel as though your world is turning upside down. You could receive memories not quite your own. Memories of a different version of you, even! (CRAU, Canon Update, or Canon AU!)
Yet, you will be experiencing them as your own. A long time could pass in your mind while only seconds have only elapsed in reality. Upon waking, you will find that you have been ejected from the party and the forest entirely. You find yourself at the entrance to the crater. Disoriented, and compelled not to re-enter, you have only yourself to blame as you must shamble your way home with this burdensome knowledge.
Notes
⁂ For the game prizes, we're using the honor system here! So long as you clear the roll then you can receive a prize with no mod permission needed.
⁂ The plotting post for this event/November is up!
⁂ Additionally, we have a state of the game post available to people read about updates, clarifications, and a poll to participate in!
⁂ If you have any further questions or feedback about this event specifically, please comment here!
⁂ Full Navigation ⁂
- - Battleship: If you roll a d20 above a 13, you can receive one of the nectar cups.
- Bobbing For Onions: If you roll a d20 above a 10, you can receive one of the bag of onions. En...joy...?
⁂ The plotting post for this event/November is up!
⁂ Additionally, we have a state of the game post available to people read about updates, clarifications, and a poll to participate in!
⁂ If you have any further questions or feedback about this event specifically, please comment here!
Re: ⇝ dealing with devils. (closed to ravus)
"No- err, yes, but I was invited and-" he shakes his head, and gestures to... everything about Ardyn right now. He's not precisely checking him out, but there's certainly much more to see of the man than he's used to. Alarming, in strange ways. "My reputation, notwithstanding, will survive, I'm sure. But what in all the hells are you wearing? And here of all places?"
no subject
He watches as Ravus fumbles over his words with a single raised brow. It is true that this is more of Ardyn than most people have seen but for good reason. Here, underneath the canopy, sun couldn't burn his flesh and give away the monster that he was. And if they got a nice look at his lean musculature, textured skin of a life traveled, and red curls of hair along his chest, well- "What about it?" he asks, reaching to pinch at part of the translucent fabric on his bicep. "The Fae decided to dress me and, by their rules, I can't change it." Well, he could since it was only at the party it needed to remain on. He thinks. Honestly, he didn't fret the details too much.
"I gave them some suggestions, of course, but this was by their design." A beat, then as sincere-sounding as he can muster: "You don't think it suits me?"
no subject
His gaze rakes over Ardyn one more time, a few more details becoming apparent with the second glimpse. Details he's not sure how to process. There are scars that mark him with a long series of tales, he's sure. Ravus knows scars better than most. He knows he's always thought them traits to admire too, proof of survival. But he's not once considered them on Ardyn of all people. Mostly because he's not considered what had been beneath all the myriad layers of fabric he usually wears. Ravus simply doesn't consider that about anyone... usually. As of late, the curiosity has gotten the better of him about a few people. But like hell is he admitting that.
Odd eyes dart away when he realizes he's been staring. He's not acknowledging the heat he feels on his face, either.
"Why are you down here? Were you not informed we were not meant to leave the party?"
no subject
Scars do tell stories that Ardyn himself will not. While he has a few common ones here or there from expected incidents of mortal living (a knife cutting too deep while cooking, lines of scratches that didn't heal all the way), the most gruesome and obvious scars are those along his arms and torso. Large, raw marks from hooks dug into him and the faintest outlines from chains wrapped too tightly around his forearms. Despite his usually enhanced healing, those wounds being re-opened and splitting his skin for centuries would never heal properly. Although the sheer sleeves of his top obscure them slightly, for someone looking closely they aren't hard to make out.
And Ravus is, he notes, looking more closely than even he expected. When he catches the man's gaze next, it's suddenly averted. Is that the faintest bit of pink he sees on his cheeks too or simply the lighting playing tricks on his eyes? That's something he mentally files away but for now addresses what he's been asked.
"Oh, you know me. I tend to do as I please and here is no exception. Besides, I've been around enough to not be easily fooled by these snake oil salesman." It takes one to know one, after all. "I am looking though to make a deal with a tailor. While eclectic, their fashion is still better than what Town has been able to provide. I'm overdue for a new coat anyway with winter around the corner." As well as due to the sorry state of his home.
no subject
At least he can pretend the conversation about fashion is more riveting.
"I'm concerned they will wrap you in more of..." He gestures to all of Ardyn, and even plucks a bit of the pink fabric for emphasis, "this. While I am not much a fan of dreary colors, I think perhaps the black suited you better."
But winter does approach, and after living in Niflheim for quite a while, Ravus doesn't dismiss how harsh it might be.
"So long as it's warm, I suppose function over form is the better outcome. I would not wish you to face the biting cold so exposed. If no fae tailor takes your offer, my coat may fit you. It would at least shelter you from the elements, and the leather retains heat." Even with his distaste for Ardyn's fashion sense, there's no lack of resolve or care in the silver's voice.
no subject
"I appreciate the offer," he starts, "and I could put you out like that so I won't pretend that's why I'll politely decline. No, I just..." Ardyn doesn't trust himself, mostly, to be given something of Ravus' and not ruin it somehow. To not lose himself a little over being wrapped up in the other man's coat, enveloped by his scent, and all the awful ways his mind strays just from the possibility alone.
Of course you would, says Somnus. Yes. That's all he's good for anymore, to ruin.
Maybe he's hoping you do, offers Aera but- No. No, he can't conceive Ravus being anywhere near the depraved beast that he is. Although that makes the temptation to corrupt even harder to fight, he... He is trying.
He knows no one believes it, least of all him, but it is happening. That third voice he can't make out as clear as Aera or Somnus - the one that feels like a conscience he thought he lost long ago - is making sure of that.
And while he does still want - need, even - to keep his hold on the High Commander, it has to be right.
"I just need to give The Fae different direction for winter fashion, hopefully. I think my dragon friend is helping me out a little though already since the cold already isn't bothering me too much." It makes sense that silver would be ice-aspected, perhaps, since the sheen does call to mind Shiva's gorgeous, glistening form.
"But I wouldn't say no still to you wanting to warm me up rather than your coat," he can't stop himself from teasingly flirting. Hopefully, Ravus' usual frustrated, flustered response will be what Ardyn needs to remind himself he's disgustingly pathetic. "Just let me know." Wink.
no subject
"The offer remains for however long it needs be," Ravus says, firm, but not demanding of acknowledgment. "Though I imagine the cold has become a familiar blight for the both of us, regardless of... other interferences." They've both been in Niflheim long enough to adapt to the bone-chilling environment, he suspects.
Though he does immediately regret extending the courtesy, because Ardyn just has to make it weird, doesn't he? Ravus immediately fumbles when he's winked at and presented with the clearly lewd offer. Even he can't miss that innuendo.
And yet... Ravus may feel the heat creep up to his face again, but there's curiosity buzzing in his thoughts. There's no proper frame of reference for something as vivid as a fantasy, but for once, there's a nebulous sort of want that floats along his thoughts, as gossamer as mist, and just as intangible. He can't quite meet golden eyes any longer, and pretends the trees just over Ardyn's shoulder are a better focus.
"I- I don't quite think myself qualified for such, err- alternative forms of keeping warm."
no subject
"And what makes you think that?" he asks, sincerely curious but also needling just a bit. Like before, he just can't seem to help himself. He had always wondered how much of Ravus' abrasive-seeming demeanour was social ineptitude versus intentionally keeping people at arm's length. While there was likely some of the latter still, was it more of the former than he'd imagined?
Huh. That opens up some potentially interesting opportunities.
"I wouldn't want for your companionship if I didn't think you'd be able to provide." He would, actually, but that's not important. "If it's lack of experience though that has you worried, well! You won't learn without trying, right?" He's just saying.
"Know that I'd be happy to help you get that experience anytime. And just like your offer, there's no expiration on it to worry about."
no subject
"Don't play coy. You know very well I was expected not to entertain relations while as Drautos' deputy or as the High Commander... Not that I ever had any interest." That dismissal could easily be suspect with most people, but with Ravus it's painfully honest. "This... 'feeling,' I suppose, it's new. It's-" It's almost as if the unrelenting stress of survival, protecting Lunafreya, and the hell of being under the thumb of his conscripters his entire life had entirely crushed his libido into dust. And it's only with the slow ease out of that environment that Ravus is uncovering the fact he has human desires.
Now if only that was all that barred his way. Because as Ardyn suspects, social ineptitude is another crippling factor in this. Ravus has never been a people person. That was always Lunafreya's strength, and Ravus would simply have been content to live in her social shadow. If only.
"It's complicated." Ravus finishes, shrugging one shoulder while he glares at the ground. "And I... don't know how to uncomplicate it. I'm not sure it's as simple as mere practice given I've never even kissed someone."
ardyn is making a poor decision and will suffer the consequences
"Right, right," he acknowledges. Ardyn was never given any such restrictions, but likely due to the fact they weren't necessary. Although he looked as though he'd been made to heel by The Empire, they were well aware he'd do what - or who, as it were - he pleased. Luckily for them, he never had any such inclinations. He was still a man, sure, but his mind was often consumed by other priorities. He also didn't care to find out what could happen if he were to let himself get distracted by passion. Probably nothing good, so- Better that he refrained, in the end.
He was still, as mentioned, a man though and Ravus brings up a good point. Away from home and all the complications his role as chancellor brought, his all-consuming drive for revenge, and left to follow his own whims- Hm. So far, he hadn't really considered what he wanted beyond the basic, immediate needs. Or what was funny, like the moonshine. This is a chance for opportunity and enjoyment both, which appeals to him in a strange sort of way. Or maybe those people from the smutty simulation had just been occupying his thoughts a bit too much lately.
Either way: "Never?" he questions, eyebrows raising. Although they just established his limitations that led to that result, it's still a surprise he never did. No charged sparring sessions, schoolboy crushes when new and confused in a strange place, nothing? "Well, that is as simple a fix as kissing someone. Anyone, really, like say- Me." In fact, it's so simple that Ardyn's moving before he can think better to stop himself once again.
He knows the risks but the potential rewards outweigh them, both immediate and long-term. All it takes is a quick step, tilt of his head, and he's attempting to press his lips to Ravus' in a surprisingly chaste peck. He doesn't consider how this might be robbing the other man of his first kiss being with someone he actually likes or a more enjoyable experience; no, as usual, Ardyn's only thinking of himself and what he wants.
SO BE IT !!!
Never has suddenly become now.
It's not a terrible feeling. There's the warm press there, not demanding anything of him save the raw sensation of it. Ravus is startled enough that he gasps quietly against Ardyn's mouth, feels their breath mingle. The warmth feels like it spreads out from his core, makes him shiver where the air is suddenly too cold on heated skin. All things considered, it's... nice. Strangely, quite nice.
"Oh," he murmurs a bit dumbly, and lets his metallic claws slide away from Ardyn's throat. If they linger a bit over his collar bones, palm over his heart, well Ravus is rather distracted already. It can't be helped. His expression has gone soft, eyes following the way steel on skin and scars looks. "I- that- you-"
Having to fumble for his words seems to snap him from that entranced stupor, because he suddenly scowls again. His cheeks are aflame with color, and he can't quite look at Ardyn yet again. No. No, he's terrible at things like feelings. The fact he was even fathoming trying to describe the tidal wave of emotions that a simple kiss elicited is proof he's too compromised for his own good.
"Warn me before you do such things. What if I'd torn into your throat?" Yes, deflecting will do nicely.
no subject
More importantly though is that even though the threat is there and real, Ravus also doesn't draw back. Their lips meet and he... doesn't pull away. Oh, indeed. His clawed hand comes to rest fleetingly on Ardyn's heart unexpectedly soft and the man wonders if that was intentional or not. When Ardyn sighs out the anticipatory tension, it's in a frosty exhale that rivals the outside autumn air.
He thinks that it wasn't enough for several reasons. He wants to grab the other man again and kiss him like he means it, to let this unexpected lust and ache for aggression both out, but bites back the urge somehow. For now. His icy breath comes in a shudder next as he tries to compose himself. His pupils have widened though and he no doubt still looks slightly like a predator about to pounce its prey. He'll have to divert this energy later somehow.
Ravus has every right to have torn his throat out and he by all rights should have- "You couldn't have," the redhead offers though. And it's lucky, actually, that he didn't truly attempt to since things would have gotten much sillier after Charlie's decree that no one could fatally wound the man after Ignis had. It took too much power to revive people, he'd said, and if Ardyn had so many enemies that wanted him dead- He'd just remove the ability for them to. "Not for lack of trying, mind, just that... Charlie made sure of that." The ultimate cockblock.
"But at least now you can't claim you've never kissed someone before."
no subject
And he did, if he's honest with himself. The warmth still lingers on his lips despite the icy breath Ardyn exhales. Right, he had just said his dragon soul was abating the cold. An ice-aligned dragon would make sense then.
"Right," Ravus says, distracted as his real fingers brush over his lips. "I can control myself, though. You merely startled me." He swallows hard, oblivious to just how excited this has gotten Ardyn. Not that he could rightly recognize the signs anyway. But his focus seems inward on the strange shift of emotions he feels, yet the look he gives the other man is nothing short of gentle awe.
"I... think I see the appeal. Why Highwind used to tease me about not seeking such things. I wrote her off as doing little more than taunting me, but I'm beginning to wonder if she had a point. Err... so, thank you."
no subject
And yet, he's being looked at like that. Thanked for it. Something in his heart twists unpleasantly. He's used to warring with himself but guilt is rare even still. So much so that it takes him a moment to recognize that's even what he is feeling. It doesn't help that there's a layer of arousal clouding everything too now, but- Details.
"You don't always have to control yourself," he offers. "Sometimes, it's not so bad to let go." Despite what people think, Ardyn fights so hard to keep himself in check. He doesn't always succeed. But there is a part of him that constantly tries to hold back, be patient, wait for the right moment to strike if he must.
Even now, he's showing incredible restraint despite everything.
"Take what you want now and again," he continues. "That's probably what Highwind teased you about more than anything, I'd imagine. When was the last time you let yourself want anything, Ravus?"
no subject
So being told to take what he wants feels like a trap. Being told to want something at all is so foreign a thought. Ravus stumbles over the question. When was the last time he wanted anything for himself? Maybe when he was a child, and wanted to be Lunafreya's knight. When he wanted to take up the tradition of House Fleuret and dutifully protect his Oracle. But beyond that, the selfishness of wanting he has kept hidden and silent. Wanting Lunafreya to be happy and free. But is that what Ardyn means? What Aranea meant? Probably not.
So he stands there, bewildered and unsure.
"I... I don't know." Honest, always painfully honest. "I'm not sure I know how to. My wants and joys has always been in service to another."
no subject
When will he ever learn?
"I can teach you," he offers. It's a risk he's willing to take for the potential reward. "You are only in service to yourself here, after all. Same as me. Any of us." As he speaks, he steps in again and doesn't waver in keeping Ravus' gaze. "I can tell you what I want right now, if it helps," he continues, lips upturning just a tick in mischievous playfulness. A dash of desire behind his amber eyes that he can't quite conceal anymore for added measure.
"What I want is another kiss. Maybe a few more, if I'm allowing myself to be greedy. So I ask again, Ravus: What do you want?"
no subject
"It does help," he murmurs, not quite so bold as to hold that smoldering golden look. It's intense in a way Ravus has never experienced before. Maybe to most it would be little more than blatant want and cloyingly mischievous intent, but has anyone ever looked at him like that before? With desire? With unveiled want? Ravus can't ever recall such a moment. And it makes his face feel flushed with heat, makes his gut twist up in knots. So his gaze falls just a touch, almost in deference to what is clearly a lead he can only think to follow. Because while Ardyn says they are only in service to themselves, Ravus can't abide by that. His wants are the wants of others.
So he must want Ardyn to kiss him again, right? It makes sense...
And yet.
And yet there's a part of him that can't let go of certain things. Even if Ravus has never truly wanted something for himself, he has wanted to be something for another.
So Ravus looks up to meet Ardyn's eyes, and shakes his head. While still so close, he reaches to take Ardyn by the hand. He doesn't even hesitate to ever-so-gallantly bring them to his lips. The silver looks more sure than he has all night as he kisses Ardyn's knuckles instead, the faintest stir of a smile there.
"I am not a man that gives way to greed quite so easily. For as much as I enjoyed that kiss, you've asked me what I want just as well. And what I want, I think, would be to do something like this properly. A courtship, a kiss earned properly."
no subject
But the other man doesn't answer immediately, which makes Ardyn wonder if he had overplayed his hand. He can correct if so, of course, but it would be disappointing. So while he's anticipating rejection with that head shake, he's... wholly unprepared for acceptance but in a much different way. His hand is taken - with no hesitation, he does note - and it's kissed almost delicately. Ravus smiles at him, a soft and sweet sort of thing that makes his stomach twist. He feels like he's suffocating suddenly.
It should be a good thing. It should. It's an opening still, the possibility for more but somehow feels wrong now. Keeping things solely physical would have been easy, ideal- This? He shot himself in the foot, it seems, with encouraging Ravus to go for what he wanted since he never in a million years considered he'd want more out of Ardyn than fulfilling a shallow, more carnal need. Who would?
Ravus, it seems, and so he's not sure what to think. And when he's not sure, the easiest thing to do is retreat: "I'm not the courting type, I'm afraid," he answers, at first. Which would normally be the end of it, he'd imagine. A misstep, a misunderstanding, and they could go back to what worked rather than him trying to take more than he should.
And yet- That damn voice is scratching in the back of his head mingled in with Aera and Somnus' whispers about he's ruining everything, how this was never going to work out like he thought, how Ravus will realize what he's playing at before long regardless. Somehow, he still hears it trying to tell him something that he can't make out but can feel instead. A compulsion to- Be honest?
"Which... doesn't mean I can't be, just that it's been a while. My skills in proper courtship are a bit rusty. But if that doesn't deter you any still, I can. Try."
(What the fuck is happening?)
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A footnote to the admission, but more than enough that it brightens Ravus' gaze by a notable fraction.
"If it has been awhile, then you are still ahead of me," Ravus admits. Not that the prior reveal of him never so much as having kissed should make that a surprise, but still. He's honest by default, and willing to say how he feels, and what he does or doesn't know. "I admit, my knowledge is entirely theoretical. So I think it would make me a hypocrite to be deterred, yes?"
Ravus doesn't drop Ardyn's hand, so much as he squeezes it gently, and smooths the pad of his thumb along the back of his palm. It's also where his gaze falls, the bolt of bravery to say what he's wanted returning back to his usual socially awkward self. That dusky pink across his cheeks is ever-present here.
"If you find it doesn't work, I shouldn't like to trap you. I trust you will tell me if it both too much, or not enough? I'm afraid I do very little by half-measures, so..."
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(The voice in the back of his head nags at him again to stop thinking of this in such a way, like something to 'win' but- Does Ardyn know how not to? He's not so sure.)
"I was a much younger man," he says, "but somehow managed to have my charm." Granted, his 'charm' these days is mostly performative and manipulative. Back then though, with Aera, his charm points were much different in that he really didn't have any at all beyond his somewhat awkward fumbling. She had seen in him though something worthy and he... took it for granted. Didn't he? He likes to think he won't again.
But he likes to think a lot of things. He doesn't draw his hand back yet as he considers what's unfolding unexpectedly.
"That makes two of us, really," he admits though, to Ravus not knowing how to do anything by half-measures. Ardyn - then and now - feels so strongly, so intensely that he hardly knows what to do with all the emotions most of the time. On that note, what Ravus says does hit him... odd. Not enough, he claims, and Ardyn has to say: "Never let anyone make you feel as though you aren't enough. Least of all me." Anything he's willing to give is more than what Ardyn deserves, he knows, and yet here he is taking anyway. So, he doesn't have the right to ever believe what Ravus can provide is not enough.
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Ravus knows he has never been enough. It's not with self-pity or wallowing, but in the fact that one man could never hope to accomplish everything he'd tried to do. He'd doomed himself to failure, but couldn't force himself to stop either. The paradox of an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object. But that is Ravus as he sees himself. A concept, a goal, a shield. As a person? He's never been quite as sure, and offering this sort of vulnerability to Ardyn makes his heart do funny things in his chest.
So perhaps he's a bit smitten. Can he be blamed after the gentle shock of his first kiss?
"Perhaps you are already showing your supposed lost charm," Ravus says, voice dipping low and appreciative. "I will try to hold fast to that kind sentiment. If not for myself, then because you have asked it of me." And with that kindness, Ravus offers his own back. The addition of, whatever it may be, 'you need only ask it of me.' For he has always been the sort to find satisfaction in the service of others. Dangerous and damning? Perhaps. But what else can he do?
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Ravus could have much better taste, Ardyn thinks, but isn't about to say any such thing aloud. Especially not when Ravus looks at him like he's done something right for once in all this with that ever intense gaze and appreciation tinging his tone. He had the help of his dragon soul, of course, but Ardyn will take more credit than he probably should on things turning out well. What else is new?
Regardless, he'll also try to at least give himself a bit more time before he inevitably shoots himself in the foot with all this. Before he does, in fact, ask Ravus for too much. "Kind? Me?" he questions, teasing. "What have you done to me already?" Yet, he knows to toe the line carefully - especially right now - between humorous self-deprecation and actual self-loathing.
"I'll do my best to keep it up but can't give any guarantees." Perhaps a bit too true to be genuinely funny, yet- Ardyn is worried, a little, that he's offering more than he can provide already too.
"I suppose only our first actual date together will be the best indicator. Which begs the question: When are you next free?"
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"I do not ask for unknowable promises," he says after a moment, that intense mismatched gaze falling on Ardyn. An understanding brims in them, like he's had a quiet, private revelation of some kind. "Only effort." The same that has been asked of him recently. To try. It's only fair.
"As for schedules," Ravus trails off, a hand setting on his hip. "Well, I do not keep the rigorous hours I once did as the High Commander. I suppose unemployment has the benefit of giving me free time." The whole transplanted in another world bit remains unspoken, but it lingers there at the edge of his words. "Give me a bit of time to have something other than my coat tailored. If we're having a proper..." a date. He's going on a date with Ardyn, Astrals preserve him. His face flushes a bit darker, and Ravus clears his throat.
"If we're going on a proper date, I should like not to be dressed for combat... and you in something, anything, other than that."
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"Which I'm happy to help fill otherwise, you realize," Ardyn is quick to offer, which- Does that make him seem more desperate? Maybe. Does he actually care? No! Shame is for losers! Maybe he wants to spend more time with Ravus, what about it! (He tells himself its to keep better tabs, but there is some part of him that just craves the familiar company. Especially considering the time he was from had meant years of isolation and Ravus was long gone.)
"Oh, of course," he says though, about his outfit. "It's fun, certainly, but this is casual wear. Not anything ideal for a date." Contrary to Ravus, Ardyn doesn't have any trouble labeling what it is. Actually? It's kind of fun. A date. Him! Them! Who would have thought? "The Fae and I have come to an agreement about fashion so- I'll consult them, but make sure my definition of tasteful and theirs is the same."
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Case in point: Ravus doesn't hear desperation. What he hears is something he still isn't fully accustomed too. That people want to be near him. After the dehumanizing way he'd grown accustomed to being looked at in Niflheim, the shock of that desire still rattles him. It's a good kind of shock, but shock all the same.
"Are you now?" Ravus mumbles, unsure what to even do or say to reciprocate that. What is it that people do with one another? He's only spent the empty hours training or anxiously working out contingency after contingency in those moments. For what few he was afforded, anyway. His voice colors with that helpless confusion, too. And a touch of hope for a lead. "I admit, I still have yet to figure out what to do with the hours. Perhaps you'll have better ways to fill them than I. After all," he trails off, then shrugs. If his usual dour expression lightens some, it can't be helped. Perhaps he's in a much better mood than he started this ridiculous party with. "You seem like just the type of man Highwind once warned me of: the ones that can always find something troublesome to get up to."
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