[ There were so many realms, beings and laws to keep up and it might overwhelm anyone who found out the sheer size. It came across as endless but everything held a beginning and an ending, even if shrouded by something or someone. An ending could, of course, be unending in a way, a sort of cycle through which marked various passing. All of which Kai knew of considering his newly discovered status as a selkie prince and the lessons they made him endure to one day assume control and run the watery kingdoms. Poseidon happened to be the patron guardian but the selkie held onto the seat of power. All other seaward beings looked to their rule.
Nothing at all to panic about!
Eyes lingering on the decadence, Kai's heart sunk more in his chest. The more standoffish tone to the place unsettled him and spoke more about the man he suddenly found himself bound to. What would the Council say? How would they deal with the newly forged alliances?
Sitting when prompted, the riddle like tone made more sense with the grand reveal. A seelie. Oh no. They were dreadful and always so tricky. A person could never place too much faith nor trust in a seelie because they knew just how to evade everything to achieve their ultimate means. The one in front of him had a younger appearance but no telling his actual age. ]
The forest smell is more of your seelie scent. I don't think you can just ...get rid of it.
[ With a frown, he pocketed the ring box and gave a tiny nod of his head. ]
I'm Kai and pleasure to formally meet you. [ He held out a hand, trying to mind his manners as best as he could.
The what will I write part kept twisting at him. ]
What do you write?
[ Seelies couldn't lie but they knew how to work around. ]
Perhaps I've simply never noticed. It is difficult to notice something like that about yourself.
[He may be foppish and grandiose, but he isn't callous. Mischievous, oh yes, but not cruel. He's no unseelie. He can see that mood drop and takes maybe just a touch more care with his response now, as it is certainly more serious.
He's a good handshake, at least. His hands are warm and his hold is strong.]
Kai. That's a nice name, isn't it? It is a pleasure to properly meet you as well.
[he will take a seat across from Kai to answer. try to make it as light and carefree as possible, when in fact it is the furthest from it.]
Letters, of course. How else do you deliver news between persons? I must be straightforward about this, I feel. You know what I am and I wish to leave no room for doubt. So, when I say that I must write a letter to the seelie king about this event, do believe me. If you can.
[ When it came to the seelie, Kai really didn't know how to feel having heard so many tales, very few the flattering sort. But the unseelie were far worse and at least he didn't accidentally bond with one of them. What could he do now? Nothing could break the bond, they were tied and tethered together in a irreversible manner. The respective kingdoms would need to deal with it as best as they could.
Gazing at Easal, he blushed a little at the compliment. Should he worry about such charm and the motive behind it? Things Kai had never been all too skilled with because of his naturally trusting manner. ]
Your name is nice too. I like it. As for the scent, every kingdom has one. But not everyone can pick up on it. Kind of a security risk you see.
[ As for the letter writing, he needed to hide his smile behind his hand because how old worldy! The seelie were really keeping to the old ways weren't they? He almost found it charming but it probably also meant they had a lot of very backwards attitudes about marrying outside of their realm. ]
The king. [ He married a prince of the seelie realm? Uh oh. ] Is he ....going to be really mad? Are you - uh next in line? I'm kind of ...a selkie prince. [ Talk about an unplanned alliance. ]
[Easal likes talking. He likes the sound of his own voice. He knows how to talk around things and delve into heard truths, and he takes full advantage of it. There are plenty of seelie like him, but he's aware of that. He tries to keep himself apart by being upfront about it all.
Now here he stands, married to a selkie. Forever and after, as it were. They'll have time to come around to each other at the very least, he thinks. A slow growing relationship should have time to take root.
The blush is adorable. Easal beams.]
Is that the reason! Security! A grand scheme, that. I'd never catch on. I can't think of any others who would either. There are other security measures to worry and fret about, but scents! Oh I like that. It's like a mystery.
[It's true. But the fae, all of them, take advantage of technologies when they're away from their realm of magic. In many ways, magic and letters are simply easier than trying to fuss with something new that needs too many modifications to keep functioning properly. Besides that, the importance of a letter can't be replaced with a few hilarious emojis and Rickrolls (oh yes, Easal knows about the Rickroll. He thinks it's great).]
My father, yes. [It does no harm to confirm what Kai has already pieced together.] I don't foresee an unending ire from him. Really, I don't know that he will mind at all the happening, but if I am lax in reporting in to him he will be quite angry indeed. He does like to be in the know.
[His expression brightens at both the question and admittance, his smile small but genuine.] I am, alas, but the third son and heir. Had you met my eldest brother Ansic in my stead, this conversation would be quite different. A prince yourself! How fortuitous. That is what many will say, I am sure of it. Father included.
And you, your family, will they be disturbed? Seelie are so well known and for so many reasons, not all good.
[ A few moments together and Kai already picked up on Easal's love for talking and waxing on about everything. But for some reason he rather enjoyed it and liked hearing what the other guy had to say. Almost waited for it, in fact, but Easal had a way of making someone feel very engrossed and focused on. Did he do it everyone? A seelie thing or just a personality trait? He really needed to learn and meet more seelie to properly judge. If only he attended the summit's in the past with his mother he would have a better handle on all of this. ]
Sometimes someone doesn't want someone to know what kingdom or realm you are from but if you know the scents it's impossible to hide. It's like breathing. [ Kai explained with a little shrug. Plenty tried to hide theirs in past, of course, but it never worked well. ]
You should write to him, then. I will contact my mother later. She's probably in meetings at the moment. [ Being worried had little to do with putting off telling his kingdom. Little at all.
Oh good! Not the heir or the eldest son in any regards. He heard tales at the eldest seelie sons and none of them were nice. He didn't know if they were actually true but still yet. ]
I don't think they'll be too upset if your kingdom isn't ....but they might be a bit worried how ...seelie don't really have the best relationship image.
But we can get to know each other and prove all of that wrong. Selkie can be seen as - tempting. So, we both have images to overcome.
[As one of seven children, it doesn't take much for individual traits to bloom. Anything to stick out. Talking - getting people to talk - is just Easal's favorite thing to do, really. It isn't genetic; that's something of a blessing. An entire family, let alone kingdom, of chatterboxess would likely drive everyone insane.]
That's almost poetic. Like breathing! Nothing you can do to stop it but to stop it entirely. Though breath can be held in and covered, at least for a moment. I suppose a heavy dose of perfume would do much the same for scent... ?
[Easal no you cannot break this perfect security hack by smelling like Snookie]
Yes, yes. I shall get on it, have no fear of that. My father can wait on a notice long enough for me to sit and finish this conversation, unless you would care to add a paragraph of your own onto the damn thing.
[It may not sound overly appealing, because he did not wish it to be, but the offer is real enough. Real, but no less horrifying. Writing a foreign dignitary out of the blue to say you've married their son? Sounds like something out of a gossip rag.]
There is always something. Well! I, as my own man, do not have much of a relationship image to be burdened with, or with which to burden you. A pity. Is that too boring?
[He's making light, the smile gives him away. Easal has dated rarely. The need for a connection, a solid bond to the other person, has kept him at more than arm's distance in terms of romance.]
I'm not like to change it now, so it must make do. Ought I know anything more to tell my father, or your mother, or anyone else in between?
Uh - not entirely. No matter what you put on, I'll still be able to pick up on your forest scent and know what realm you belong to. [ Few knew how to pick up on scents so well, though, Kai had just been trained harder in all kinds of matters. The sea wanted to ensure their heir kept a certain edge over everything with abilities, knowledge and everything in between. If only they knew Kai wanted to maintain his mortal life and not rule at all. He cared so little for politics and power exchanges.
Considering about the letter, he shook his head. ]
I'm sure whatever you include will work just fine. The sea will know shortly.
As for relationships - uh - once our bond fully clicks in, you won't be able to be with anyone else. [ Giving an apologetic look, he set down the ring box again for Easal. ]
The bond will connect us in a lot of ways. You'll feel a need to be closer to me soon. I'm sorry for that. The beginnings of a selkie bond are overwhelming for a non selkie but given you're a seelie, I'm not sure how it might work on your end.
[ Without really thinking about it, he reached out to squeeze a hand along Easal's arm as a means of comfort, most likely and also his own need to be closer. ]
It'll pain you to be away from me during the honeymoon period of this and you'll feel drawn to water. [ A pause. ] What are your abilities? They'll impact me in return.
Really! My! I should be quite wary of any hide-and-seek games against you, then. The odds are stacked against me already.
[It does seem a handy thing, he can tell. If it is possible to learn, he'll have to look into it sometime. He does quite like being able to one-up his brothers.]
Yes, that sounds quite ominous, did you know? The sea will know. [He considers the box, watching and doing nothing with it for now.] I do not in the least doubt it, or your ties to it, but such phrasing is quite splendid.
[He does pause more at the bond talk. He can't call to mind any firsthand accounts of it, or even secondhand. A silly romance novel his sisters liked, maybe, but that's three quarters garbage and one quarter heaving bosoms.]
Parsed as thus, what you are saying is, I believe, something I do understand and quite well at that. The bond is a concept kin to a fated match, yes? A soulmate.
[He doesn't wait for an answer. Easal's hand moves nearer the box, never quite making contact. He's still sorting his thoughts in his head and out loud.]
Yes... Oh, and those do happen, you know, among fae. Instantaneously. Imagine looking across the room and catching eyes with someone and suddenly half your soul returns to you, a half you never knew was missing even one day in your life! I've heard it explained like that, you see. One simply knows who they are meant to have and to hold. That kind of bond that exists within two people deeper than heart and bones.
[The touch is nice. He appreciates that it is his arm, that it is polite in its intimacy. Easal's gaze returns to Kai's hand a long few moments before he looks back to Kai's face.]
Are we there now? In the honeymoon period; I know we are not in water. I should be able to tell that much, though!
[Not a good joke, but it makes him smile wider. He's handling this. Enjoying it.]
My abilities. Combative, magical, mental? If you are impacted by my use of spear and shield, I should like to know more of that. In the magical sense I am much more useful both on the battlefield and off. I can heal. White magic, they say in some parts. I don't see anything white about it. I can close wounds and repair injuries with my power. It is what I am meant to do. To heal. Still I must fight as well, so you see how truly terrible that power is, to be the causation and cure.
[ Playfulness. An easy term, silken almost and one he would already label Easal with despite their limited interactions so far. The man seemed to thrive on making a production of his own thoughts and emotions. Were all seelies the same way and took up all the space around them? Theatrics would be another fitting label and very different than some of his own.
But how could be really judge?
Lips twitching at the edges, he responded with - ]
Even without the scent advantage, I would still win. You'd be easy. But I could teach you the scent language. You might not have known scents can speak just as words can.
[ Now he happened to smile fully, giving a nod of his head. ] Oh, I'm aware and the sea isn't something you want to trifle with. It hums in my veins. [ Not that he happened to be combative at all, not on purpose anyway.
The talk of soulmates squeezed his heart and again he nodded. ]
Something similar yes but your image sounds much more romantic. I'm sorry to have taken that from you.
[ Perhaps not the best joke but he appreciated the attempt to lighten the air. ]
Not until you feel the draw. The bond hasn't clicked in until you do.
[ The magic sounded intense on Easal's end and understandably worried him when his selkie could be intense already. The two of them bonded together could be lethal. Would it make someone want to eliminate them to stop the possibility of something happening? A horrifying thought he decided to keep to himself. ]
You're kind of like your own ying and yang. Curious. We'll see how it impacts me. Do you wish you could give it up?
Easy! No! Oh, no, that can't be. I am quite the active player, I can promise you that. I would not so easily lead you to me with my words. I can do silence.
[Not that he could doubt anyone for disbelieving him. But silence is a necessary skill in war. A tool. Talking is a comfort.]
If they can speak as words can, I should consider it an honor to learn. You call it a language; I like that. Much more intrigue.
[He can only imagine what the full might of the sea in physical body might be capable of. It's a fun thing to laugh about, but less so when the reality is so very there.]
Apologizing! What for? If we two are to have such a bond, I shall not want another. Will you not take the place of that fated match? I'd think you must. No, you must indeed, if the power is that great. Fate itself is being reshaped by your words.
[As dramatic as it sounds, he believes it. Fate has been rewritten. It's ... a relief, in many ways. Easal has always been slow to care for and open up to partners. The bond he needed was never really there and had not been yet found. Worrying that some stranger would call out his soul and he would be stuck decades, waiting to feel or be close to them, was a real worry. Not, fortunately, a much reviewed worry, but one that still came back unannounced.]
It wouldn't do to be unable to tell whether or not I am honeymooning, eh? Oh, you can say it that way! I don't mind.
[His own yin and yang. Yes, that's only too true. The question makes him shake his head immediately, though. He knows the answer. Always has.]
Never. I could give up fighting on the front lines. I would never be bothered again. But this power is a part of me, after all. I could no sooner give up my right arm. I am a healer; it might reattach.
[ With a soft laugh, he attempted to muffle the humor with his hand, not wanting to offend. Who knew how sensitive Easal might be to being teased and laughed with. Some beings were incredibly sensitive and proud, unable to take even the tiniest slight. ]
It's more the aura you give off and how expressive it is. There's a lot of ways to find you, I imagine.
[ Probably not the most reassuring thing in the world, especially for those who wanted mystery or the ability to slip away. But selkie made it very difficult to do either as most marine beings did. They were able to detect plenty of things. ]
Oh, now that I think about it, I don't - you probably wouldn't have been able to see the pelt unless you were meant to. Might be much more to this that we need to figure out and deal with.
[ It still worried him either way because seelie had quite the rep for one thing and for another what if they did not get along well? ]
Do you feel anything yet? [ He gave a nod, moving his hand away finally to settle back in his own seat. ] I understand, I would not want to give up being a selkie. It can be a challenge but its who I am.
[Proud, sure - but he's not above laughing at himself. He knows that it's a ridiculous idea, anyway. He likes making people relaxed. He's half playing now.]
Auras too? I imagine mine would be quite unique. Do they have a scent as well, auras? Perhaps more personal than a simple fae one?
[He isn't about to try and hide. Wouldn't dare. He likes the idea of all this, in a weird way. And anyway, it's great fun now to be learning all of this new information. A real good time for all.]
Oh? I certainly saw it, or I'd have not returned it to you. I'll take stock in that idea.
[Easal is certainly not helping with those worries, being so flouncy and carefree.]
... Ah, well! Yes, I can admit there is something. [He's too aware he's been focused on that ring box these last few minutes. He likes being this close to Kai. There's a lot to focus on besides that, at least. He isn't used to being infatuated.] I do understand that feeling. We are used to ourselves now.
[ With so much to focus on, it could be difficult to settle on just one thing, a plight Kai currently found himself in but he decided to push most aside in favor of just one. A very important one to signal the rest of their relationship and what it could turn out to be. A happy and connected sort, hopefully, but things were always murky when it came to bonding with other beings. But he never wanted to connect with another selkie or any of the other sea like dwellers because they were all rather pompous and proud. So wrapped up in what they provided in terms of their heritage and how superior it happened to be to anything else. Such a waste of time in Kai's eyes. ]
What do you feel if I - [ Kai shifted closer, pressing one of his hands to Easal's cheek, moving his thumb back and forth against the skin, eyes watching closely the entire time. The reaction mattered more than he wanted to let onto but it would tell them where they currently were with the bond and the connection forming. ]
You're not used to opening up to someone. Does it worry you to do it now? [ His other hand attempted to take Easal's, squeezing it reassuringly. ]
Whatever you feel, let me know. Whatever you want, let me know. Seelie are different ....it should be interesting. We can see how we work.
[Oh, touching. He does not lean away from the hand on his cheek, alien as it is to be touched so gently. It's actually kind of nice? He would not have expected another person's hand to leave him feeling at ease like this.
It is most definitely obvious that the small gesture is soothing. Blind men could tell that, even if Easal is not sure how to sort it.]
I feel you. No, that's not what you wanted. I know. It's ... [for a man who loves words and speaking, he sure is having a time gathering these together] ... It's nice.
[nailed it]
Ha, it shows. I knew it would.
[The hand he can take. It too is a comfort, to be held like this. Oh he can feel himself turning into a sap. After decades of not being a sap, here he goes! He can't even be mad about it. It just feels nice.]
No, no I am not worried. This is not something to worry over. I am unused to it, and perhaps unsure is a better way of saying it.
[a pause.]
Well! When I said before that I do not have much of a relationship image, I meant it, and you can see that more clearly. My siblings, fellow soldiers, friends and citizens all, open up so much quicker than I. I am not fully sure that is very Seelie-like at all, but it is very Easal-like. Very Easal, indeed.
[give him a moment to breathe, and he will give a careful squeeze back]
From me, I hope I do it well. I don't feel grounded in the least.
Actually, he rather liked the turn of phrase and smiled shyly because of it. Mostly, taking it in a deeper meaning with the bond waking up between them. How much more would they feel before the night ended? It excited him to consider but also worried him at the same time.
There were too many what ifs and Easal had a presence about him, which might be difficult to decipher. ]
If it feels calming that's a good sign. So is warm like slipping into a bath. Once it starts feeling -- uh -- more than that - [ He trailed off with an apologetic look since overwhelming would be too light of a word. ]
Why don't you open up easily? Or is that not something you want to discuss? I don't mind waiting. I think you'll be worth the effort.
[ Easal had been very understanding so far and accepted him. ] Thank you for not rejecting me. I. You won't feel grounded. You'll feel floating, drifting and lighter in a nice way from me. All like drifting in the sea.
[ The soft smile returned. ] You should probably get to your letter while you can still stand being apart from me.
[He's alright with that. He does feel the tug, slow and steady but still ever growing like an ocean wave. Oh, that's poetic, isn't it? Fitting, too. Well, there's plenty more to find between them as the night comes on.]
More than warm and calming? I don't suppose that you mean so hot and so calming I find myself in a sweaty slumber. That sounds both unromantic and, I must admit, rather icky. Yes! Icky. The only right word .
[Teasing again. He's pretty sure he's got the gist of what that means. When the ties that have a hold on him tighten, it means. When he cannot deny that his soul is only half his own.]
Oh? Well, thank you, I should hope I am worth waiting for. Of course I should! It'd be dreadful to be on the other side of that fence.
[He smiles and shrugs lightly.]
I could tell you that I do not know why, exactly, and that would not be a lie. I could guess. Oh, guessing, that's easy enough. There's no trouble in guessing. Anything is possible, even untruths, so I won't.
[His real suspicion lies deeper; rooted in his family. His father certainly played a role. But it's less painful to keep it open and guess aplenty.]
But what I know is that I am a slow one in the field of romance and closeness. I always have been, since my younger days. I'd like to think it more of a growing oak, slow and strong, than a rock being slowly worn by time and wind.
That is more worth the effort, eh?
[He's sure that this is something he can grow into, by now. Kai has been too gentle and understanding himself.] Ah, so all is on course then. That's a relief! Good to hear.
Ah. Hm. While I can stand it, you say ... [He blinks a few times at that. Does that matter?] Sorry, how does this... You in this room is not enough, that concentrating on the writing would be impossible?
[ Icky? Even if he tried, he wouldn't have been able to hold back the laughter but he tried to keep it light and fleeting. They were dealing with more serious matters, after all. But still Easal could be silly and sure talked a lot. He liked it and enjoyed hearing what Easal decided to come up with. ]
Sometimes going to sleep sweaty wouldn't be a bad or icky thing. [ Not that he would actually know but he had to guess the niceness of being with someone so intimately and powerfully. But each encounter might not always be so profound. ]
I guess I don't always let others actually in very close. It's kind of like a certain point is reached and then there's a block so I understand. [ Again, he reached out to clasp his hand over Easal's and give a tiny squeeze. The contact more electric than before. The bond awakening more and more. ]
I don't mind waiting but this - [ Certain aspects were hard to deny, especially in the beginning but maybe things might be a little different with them. ]
You'll see. [ Two could play at the coy and teasing game. ] Better write your letter Easal. I'll sit over there and you tell me when you can't stand the distance anymore. That's when we'll know.
[ By over there, he meant all the way in the dining room at the table. ]
Looking for an exception to the rule already? [he gives as good as he takes, promise, but oh he can give.] I'd still think a shower to rinse off the sweat would make everyone more comfortable and quite fresher, which does tend to make sleeping more restful, and is I have found again, the purpose of resting.
[The after sex shower is a godsend. Trust him.
... and trust that he felt that electricity in his own skin just as strongly. His fingers curl reflexively to hold Kai's more tightly however briefly]
It is difficult to be so open. I have seen others do it without a care in the world and no effort at all. But I ... we, perhaps, are not so easily won. The time and care involved make it all much more grand, in the end.
[Was that snark? That might have been snark. Easal has never been so proud.]
Clever! Oh, quite. Is this catch and reel? Well done.
[But he won't argue with the logic. Besides, he's starting to think he underestimated the pull - you would think, growing up as a fae, that he'd have been prepared. Woefully, he was not.]
The benefit in getting it over and done with is having it over and done with, and there's no danger of a quick reply. Not with the politics. We'll have time to ourselves, so to speak. And I can find my own dining room by memory! No need for scent to find my way here.
[ Managing to stand up, Kai looked down at Easal with a growing fondness unfurling from within his chest. A very new sort of emotion, especially towards someone he hadn't known for very long. Usually, it took more time for him to properly attach but the mounting bond probably had plenty to do with it.
Lightly, his fingers brushed along Easal's face, thumb running across his bottom lip, fleeting and light. Another tease, of course. ]
So many exceptions. [ He agreed, taking a small step back. ] I think you're worth the effort.
[ More steps backwards were taken to put more distance between them. It already made him ache but he needed to know when it clicked in for Easal. The water would be overwhelming. ]
Get to writing if you think you can focus. [ From there, he walked into the dining room and sat at the table. He missed Easal already. ]
[ A smirk played along his lips as he pulled out his phone and fiddled around on it. The rush of water suddenly in his veins distracted him for a moment, the same with the growing need for proximity. He ignored both because he needed to wait for Easal to experience the same. Who knew how he might feel it all. ]
Are you writing, Easal? Still able to think? [ Best to tease. ]
[It is very different to write a polite and informative letter when there is a sadist just out of sight, teasing him and giving him a lightheaded rush at the sound of his sadist voice. Easal can now confirm. He almost crossed an L and dotted an R. That's embarrassing, he'd have had to start all over again.]
When you're not distracting, I do find it easier! Ah, but you're enjoying it, aren't you? I cant fault that.
Distracting? [ He questioned, an innocent tilt to his tone. Eyes wide to complete the picture even if Easal could not see him at the moment. Could sense it hopefully. ] It would be more distracting if I straddled your waist while you tried to write that letter of yours.
[ An image passing through his mind at the moment. ]
What are you feeling right now? Has it hit you yet?
[ You're incredibly welcome Easal and Kai had plenty more where that came from, especially given the newness of it all. Desiring and being desired, how incredible and now he understood why others were addicted. ]
Actually, the way I would press against you, you could.
[ How helpful of him, right? ]
It'll be easier to cope with if you don't have to worry about the letter.
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stardustly2018-01-01 07:23 pm
no subject
Nothing at all to panic about!
Eyes lingering on the decadence, Kai's heart sunk more in his chest. The more standoffish tone to the place unsettled him and spoke more about the man he suddenly found himself bound to. What would the Council say? How would they deal with the newly forged alliances?
Sitting when prompted, the riddle like tone made more sense with the grand reveal. A seelie. Oh no. They were dreadful and always so tricky. A person could never place too much faith nor trust in a seelie because they knew just how to evade everything to achieve their ultimate means. The one in front of him had a younger appearance but no telling his actual age. ]
The forest smell is more of your seelie scent. I don't think you can just ...get rid of it.
[ With a frown, he pocketed the ring box and gave a tiny nod of his head. ]
I'm Kai and pleasure to formally meet you. [ He held out a hand, trying to mind his manners as best as he could.
The what will I write part kept twisting at him. ]
What do you write?
[ Seelies couldn't lie but they knew how to work around. ]
no subject
Perhaps I've simply never noticed. It is difficult to notice something like that about yourself.
[He may be foppish and grandiose, but he isn't callous. Mischievous, oh yes, but not cruel. He's no unseelie. He can see that mood drop and takes maybe just a touch more care with his response now, as it is certainly more serious.
He's a good handshake, at least. His hands are warm and his hold is strong.]
Kai. That's a nice name, isn't it? It is a pleasure to properly meet you as well.
[he will take a seat across from Kai to answer. try to make it as light and carefree as possible, when in fact it is the furthest from it.]
Letters, of course. How else do you deliver news between persons? I must be straightforward about this, I feel. You know what I am and I wish to leave no room for doubt. So, when I say that I must write a letter to the seelie king about this event, do believe me. If you can.
no subject
Gazing at Easal, he blushed a little at the compliment. Should he worry about such charm and the motive behind it? Things Kai had never been all too skilled with because of his naturally trusting manner. ]
Your name is nice too. I like it. As for the scent, every kingdom has one. But not everyone can pick up on it. Kind of a security risk you see.
[ As for the letter writing, he needed to hide his smile behind his hand because how old worldy! The seelie were really keeping to the old ways weren't they? He almost found it charming but it probably also meant they had a lot of very backwards attitudes about marrying outside of their realm. ]
The king. [ He married a prince of the seelie realm? Uh oh. ] Is he ....going to be really mad? Are you - uh next in line? I'm kind of ...a selkie prince. [ Talk about an unplanned alliance. ]
no subject
Now here he stands, married to a selkie. Forever and after, as it were. They'll have time to come around to each other at the very least, he thinks. A slow growing relationship should have time to take root.
The blush is adorable. Easal beams.]
Is that the reason! Security! A grand scheme, that. I'd never catch on. I can't think of any others who would either. There are other security measures to worry and fret about, but scents! Oh I like that. It's like a mystery.
[It's true. But the fae, all of them, take advantage of technologies when they're away from their realm of magic. In many ways, magic and letters are simply easier than trying to fuss with something new that needs too many modifications to keep functioning properly. Besides that, the importance of a letter can't be replaced with a few hilarious emojis and Rickrolls (oh yes, Easal knows about the Rickroll. He thinks it's great).]
My father, yes. [It does no harm to confirm what Kai has already pieced together.] I don't foresee an unending ire from him. Really, I don't know that he will mind at all the happening, but if I am lax in reporting in to him he will be quite angry indeed. He does like to be in the know.
[His expression brightens at both the question and admittance, his smile small but genuine.] I am, alas, but the third son and heir. Had you met my eldest brother Ansic in my stead, this conversation would be quite different. A prince yourself! How fortuitous. That is what many will say, I am sure of it. Father included.
And you, your family, will they be disturbed? Seelie are so well known and for so many reasons, not all good.
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Sometimes someone doesn't want someone to know what kingdom or realm you are from but if you know the scents it's impossible to hide. It's like breathing. [ Kai explained with a little shrug. Plenty tried to hide theirs in past, of course, but it never worked well. ]
You should write to him, then. I will contact my mother later. She's probably in meetings at the moment. [ Being worried had little to do with putting off telling his kingdom. Little at all.
Oh good! Not the heir or the eldest son in any regards. He heard tales at the eldest seelie sons and none of them were nice. He didn't know if they were actually true but still yet. ]
I don't think they'll be too upset if your kingdom isn't ....but they might be a bit worried how ...seelie don't really have the best relationship image.
But we can get to know each other and prove all of that wrong. Selkie can be seen as - tempting. So, we both have images to overcome.
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That's almost poetic. Like breathing! Nothing you can do to stop it but to stop it entirely. Though breath can be held in and covered, at least for a moment. I suppose a heavy dose of perfume would do much the same for scent... ?
[Easal no you cannot break this perfect security hack by smelling like Snookie]
Yes, yes. I shall get on it, have no fear of that. My father can wait on a notice long enough for me to sit and finish this conversation, unless you would care to add a paragraph of your own onto the damn thing.
[It may not sound overly appealing, because he did not wish it to be, but the offer is real enough. Real, but no less horrifying. Writing a foreign dignitary out of the blue to say you've married their son? Sounds like something out of a gossip rag.]
There is always something. Well! I, as my own man, do not have much of a relationship image to be burdened with, or with which to burden you. A pity. Is that too boring?
[He's making light, the smile gives him away. Easal has dated rarely. The need for a connection, a solid bond to the other person, has kept him at more than arm's distance in terms of romance.]
I'm not like to change it now, so it must make do. Ought I know anything more to tell my father, or your mother, or anyone else in between?
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Considering about the letter, he shook his head. ]
I'm sure whatever you include will work just fine. The sea will know shortly.
As for relationships - uh - once our bond fully clicks in, you won't be able to be with anyone else. [ Giving an apologetic look, he set down the ring box again for Easal. ]
The bond will connect us in a lot of ways. You'll feel a need to be closer to me soon. I'm sorry for that. The beginnings of a selkie bond are overwhelming for a non selkie but given you're a seelie, I'm not sure how it might work on your end.
[ Without really thinking about it, he reached out to squeeze a hand along Easal's arm as a means of comfort, most likely and also his own need to be closer. ]
It'll pain you to be away from me during the honeymoon period of this and you'll feel drawn to water. [ A pause. ] What are your abilities? They'll impact me in return.
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[It does seem a handy thing, he can tell. If it is possible to learn, he'll have to look into it sometime. He does quite like being able to one-up his brothers.]
Yes, that sounds quite ominous, did you know? The sea will know. [He considers the box, watching and doing nothing with it for now.] I do not in the least doubt it, or your ties to it, but such phrasing is quite splendid.
[He does pause more at the bond talk. He can't call to mind any firsthand accounts of it, or even secondhand. A silly romance novel his sisters liked, maybe, but that's three quarters garbage and one quarter heaving bosoms.]
Parsed as thus, what you are saying is, I believe, something I do understand and quite well at that. The bond is a concept kin to a fated match, yes? A soulmate.
[He doesn't wait for an answer. Easal's hand moves nearer the box, never quite making contact. He's still sorting his thoughts in his head and out loud.]
Yes... Oh, and those do happen, you know, among fae. Instantaneously. Imagine looking across the room and catching eyes with someone and suddenly half your soul returns to you, a half you never knew was missing even one day in your life! I've heard it explained like that, you see. One simply knows who they are meant to have and to hold. That kind of bond that exists within two people deeper than heart and bones.
[The touch is nice. He appreciates that it is his arm, that it is polite in its intimacy. Easal's gaze returns to Kai's hand a long few moments before he looks back to Kai's face.]
Are we there now? In the honeymoon period; I know we are not in water. I should be able to tell that much, though!
[Not a good joke, but it makes him smile wider. He's handling this. Enjoying it.]
My abilities. Combative, magical, mental? If you are impacted by my use of spear and shield, I should like to know more of that. In the magical sense I am much more useful both on the battlefield and off. I can heal. White magic, they say in some parts. I don't see anything white about it. I can close wounds and repair injuries with my power. It is what I am meant to do. To heal. Still I must fight as well, so you see how truly terrible that power is, to be the causation and cure.
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But how could be really judge?
Lips twitching at the edges, he responded with - ]
Even without the scent advantage, I would still win. You'd be easy. But I could teach you the scent language. You might not have known scents can speak just as words can.
[ Now he happened to smile fully, giving a nod of his head. ] Oh, I'm aware and the sea isn't something you want to trifle with. It hums in my veins. [ Not that he happened to be combative at all, not on purpose anyway.
The talk of soulmates squeezed his heart and again he nodded. ]
Something similar yes but your image sounds much more romantic. I'm sorry to have taken that from you.
[ Perhaps not the best joke but he appreciated the attempt to lighten the air. ]
Not until you feel the draw. The bond hasn't clicked in until you do.
[ The magic sounded intense on Easal's end and understandably worried him when his selkie could be intense already. The two of them bonded together could be lethal. Would it make someone want to eliminate them to stop the possibility of something happening? A horrifying thought he decided to keep to himself. ]
You're kind of like your own ying and yang. Curious. We'll see how it impacts me. Do you wish you could give it up?
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[Not that he could doubt anyone for disbelieving him. But silence is a necessary skill in war. A tool. Talking is a comfort.]
If they can speak as words can, I should consider it an honor to learn. You call it a language; I like that. Much more intrigue.
[He can only imagine what the full might of the sea in physical body might be capable of. It's a fun thing to laugh about, but less so when the reality is so very there.]
Apologizing! What for? If we two are to have such a bond, I shall not want another. Will you not take the place of that fated match? I'd think you must. No, you must indeed, if the power is that great. Fate itself is being reshaped by your words.
[As dramatic as it sounds, he believes it. Fate has been rewritten. It's ... a relief, in many ways. Easal has always been slow to care for and open up to partners. The bond he needed was never really there and had not been yet found. Worrying that some stranger would call out his soul and he would be stuck decades, waiting to feel or be close to them, was a real worry. Not, fortunately, a much reviewed worry, but one that still came back unannounced.]
It wouldn't do to be unable to tell whether or not I am honeymooning, eh? Oh, you can say it that way! I don't mind.
[His own yin and yang. Yes, that's only too true. The question makes him shake his head immediately, though. He knows the answer. Always has.]
Never. I could give up fighting on the front lines. I would never be bothered again. But this power is a part of me, after all. I could no sooner give up my right arm. I am a healer; it might reattach.
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It's more the aura you give off and how expressive it is. There's a lot of ways to find you, I imagine.
[ Probably not the most reassuring thing in the world, especially for those who wanted mystery or the ability to slip away. But selkie made it very difficult to do either as most marine beings did. They were able to detect plenty of things. ]
Oh, now that I think about it, I don't - you probably wouldn't have been able to see the pelt unless you were meant to. Might be much more to this that we need to figure out and deal with.
[ It still worried him either way because seelie had quite the rep for one thing and for another what if they did not get along well? ]
Do you feel anything yet? [ He gave a nod, moving his hand away finally to settle back in his own seat. ] I understand, I would not want to give up being a selkie. It can be a challenge but its who I am.
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Auras too? I imagine mine would be quite unique. Do they have a scent as well, auras? Perhaps more personal than a simple fae one?
[He isn't about to try and hide. Wouldn't dare. He likes the idea of all this, in a weird way. And anyway, it's great fun now to be learning all of this new information. A real good time for all.]
Oh? I certainly saw it, or I'd have not returned it to you. I'll take stock in that idea.
[Easal is certainly not helping with those worries, being so flouncy and carefree.]
... Ah, well! Yes, I can admit there is something. [He's too aware he's been focused on that ring box these last few minutes. He likes being this close to Kai. There's a lot to focus on besides that, at least. He isn't used to being infatuated.] I do understand that feeling. We are used to ourselves now.
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What do you feel if I - [ Kai shifted closer, pressing one of his hands to Easal's cheek, moving his thumb back and forth against the skin, eyes watching closely the entire time. The reaction mattered more than he wanted to let onto but it would tell them where they currently were with the bond and the connection forming. ]
You're not used to opening up to someone. Does it worry you to do it now? [ His other hand attempted to take Easal's, squeezing it reassuringly. ]
Whatever you feel, let me know. Whatever you want, let me know. Seelie are different ....it should be interesting. We can see how we work.
I feel grounded already. That's from you.
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It is most definitely obvious that the small gesture is soothing. Blind men could tell that, even if Easal is not sure how to sort it.]
I feel you. No, that's not what you wanted. I know. It's ... [for a man who loves words and speaking, he sure is having a time gathering these together] ... It's nice.
[nailed it]
Ha, it shows. I knew it would.
[The hand he can take. It too is a comfort, to be held like this. Oh he can feel himself turning into a sap. After decades of not being a sap, here he goes! He can't even be mad about it. It just feels nice.]
No, no I am not worried. This is not something to worry over. I am unused to it, and perhaps unsure is a better way of saying it.
[a pause.]
Well! When I said before that I do not have much of a relationship image, I meant it, and you can see that more clearly. My siblings, fellow soldiers, friends and citizens all, open up so much quicker than I. I am not fully sure that is very Seelie-like at all, but it is very Easal-like. Very Easal, indeed.
[give him a moment to breathe, and he will give a careful squeeze back]
From me, I hope I do it well. I don't feel grounded in the least.
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Actually, he rather liked the turn of phrase and smiled shyly because of it. Mostly, taking it in a deeper meaning with the bond waking up between them. How much more would they feel before the night ended? It excited him to consider but also worried him at the same time.
There were too many what ifs and Easal had a presence about him, which might be difficult to decipher. ]
If it feels calming that's a good sign. So is warm like slipping into a bath. Once it starts feeling -- uh -- more than that - [ He trailed off with an apologetic look since overwhelming would be too light of a word. ]
Why don't you open up easily? Or is that not something you want to discuss? I don't mind waiting. I think you'll be worth the effort.
[ Easal had been very understanding so far and accepted him. ] Thank you for not rejecting me. I. You won't feel grounded. You'll feel floating, drifting and lighter in a nice way from me. All like drifting in the sea.
[ The soft smile returned. ] You should probably get to your letter while you can still stand being apart from me.
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More than warm and calming? I don't suppose that you mean so hot and so calming I find myself in a sweaty slumber. That sounds both unromantic and, I must admit, rather icky. Yes! Icky. The only right word .
[Teasing again. He's pretty sure he's got the gist of what that means. When the ties that have a hold on him tighten, it means. When he cannot deny that his soul is only half his own.]
Oh? Well, thank you, I should hope I am worth waiting for. Of course I should! It'd be dreadful to be on the other side of that fence.
[He smiles and shrugs lightly.]
I could tell you that I do not know why, exactly, and that would not be a lie. I could guess. Oh, guessing, that's easy enough. There's no trouble in guessing. Anything is possible, even untruths, so I won't.
[His real suspicion lies deeper; rooted in his family. His father certainly played a role. But it's less painful to keep it open and guess aplenty.]
But what I know is that I am a slow one in the field of romance and closeness. I always have been, since my younger days. I'd like to think it more of a growing oak, slow and strong, than a rock being slowly worn by time and wind.
That is more worth the effort, eh?
[He's sure that this is something he can grow into, by now. Kai has been too gentle and understanding himself.] Ah, so all is on course then. That's a relief! Good to hear.
Ah. Hm. While I can stand it, you say ... [He blinks a few times at that. Does that matter?] Sorry, how does this... You in this room is not enough, that concentrating on the writing would be impossible?
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Sometimes going to sleep sweaty wouldn't be a bad or icky thing. [ Not that he would actually know but he had to guess the niceness of being with someone so intimately and powerfully. But each encounter might not always be so profound. ]
I guess I don't always let others actually in very close. It's kind of like a certain point is reached and then there's a block so I understand. [ Again, he reached out to clasp his hand over Easal's and give a tiny squeeze. The contact more electric than before. The bond awakening more and more. ]
I don't mind waiting but this - [ Certain aspects were hard to deny, especially in the beginning but maybe things might be a little different with them. ]
You'll see. [ Two could play at the coy and teasing game. ] Better write your letter Easal. I'll sit over there and you tell me when you can't stand the distance anymore. That's when we'll know.
[ By over there, he meant all the way in the dining room at the table. ]
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[The after sex shower is a godsend. Trust him.
... and trust that he felt that electricity in his own skin just as strongly. His fingers curl reflexively to hold Kai's more tightly however briefly]
It is difficult to be so open. I have seen others do it without a care in the world and no effort at all. But I ... we, perhaps, are not so easily won. The time and care involved make it all much more grand, in the end.
[Was that snark? That might have been snark. Easal has never been so proud.]
Clever! Oh, quite. Is this catch and reel? Well done.
[But he won't argue with the logic. Besides, he's starting to think he underestimated the pull - you would think, growing up as a fae, that he'd have been prepared. Woefully, he was not.]
The benefit in getting it over and done with is having it over and done with, and there's no danger of a quick reply. Not with the politics. We'll have time to ourselves, so to speak. And I can find my own dining room by memory! No need for scent to find my way here.
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Lightly, his fingers brushed along Easal's face, thumb running across his bottom lip, fleeting and light. Another tease, of course. ]
So many exceptions. [ He agreed, taking a small step back. ] I think you're worth the effort.
[ More steps backwards were taken to put more distance between them. It already made him ache but he needed to know when it clicked in for Easal. The water would be overwhelming. ]
Get to writing if you think you can focus. [ From there, he walked into the dining room and sat at the table. He missed Easal already. ]
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Then I should thank you for saying so, and for believing it.
[He can feel it. Oh, he wishes he didn't, because now he's acutely aware of it. He can't help it.]
Cruel, aren't you? If I think I can. I must do it, Kai.
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Are you writing, Easal? Still able to think? [ Best to tease. ]
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When you're not distracting, I do find it easier! Ah, but you're enjoying it, aren't you? I cant fault that.
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[ An image passing through his mind at the moment. ]
What are you feeling right now? Has it hit you yet?
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Were you on me, I could not reach the desk. That would help no one, least of all me, see...
[this is rude. he barely has two hormones to rub together]
Many things. I am feeling so very many! And sorting through them would be much more pleasant than finishing this letter.
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Actually, the way I would press against you, you could.
[ How helpful of him, right? ]
It'll be easier to cope with if you don't have to worry about the letter.
[ Coy as anything. ]
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