zodiheart | Amani Inbox

Themis, would I be able to take a moment of your time?

I realize we're all probably a bit... occupied at the moment.

[It's a bit hard to wind down after everything that's happened, and he certainly hasn't been successful at Chilling Out.]

For you, my fallen star, I will always have time.

What is it I can do?

[What is it you need, he does not say. But he will show it so, as soon as he is able.]

I am able to travel to you, or may give to you my location. Which would you prefer?

[UGH YOU ROMANTIC FUCK]

Suppose it's just quicker for you to appear here, isn't it?

I'm at Byleth's. Letting him rest, naturally, but I can wait in the living room for you.

That would be the swiftest way for us to meet, yes.

[He smiles.]

Ah, yes, now I have not one, but two very good reasons for transporting myself. I shall see you soon.

[True to his word, he teleports only a few moments later, quickly adjusting his size and making his way to the door. Seeing as he was expected, he lets himself in, looking for Obsidian in the living room.]

[There are some basic things that Obsidian has learned to cook by now with his time with Angeal and Byleth, so there's a bit more to his repertoire than before. As a result he has some coffee biscuits on a plate set out, and he finishes tying off a ribbon to a box.

He glances up as he sees Themis enter; it earns a smile and he nods at the other man.]

Make yourself at home.

[Themis's first response is to do exactly that, by striding across the room and pulling Obsidian into a hug.]

My home is right here, part of it, at the very least.

[He pulls back to smile up at the viera.]

[The embrace does not surprise him by now, something he gladly returns. There is a brief pause as he tries to digest the exact wording of that. The concept of a home has always been difficult for him, but he does slowly catch onto what Themis is saying.

It earns a blush. Gods, he's always doing that!

He leans to press a kiss to Themis' cheek.]

Tis fulfilling to my heart to see you.

But I had meant to give you a gift.

[Reaching for the box, he offers it almost shyly; it's a bit odd to consider that he's being shy with Themis, but relationships are still so, so new to him.

Inside the box is a silken scarf, carefully made to be a gradient of colors. On each color is glimmering thread of familiar constellations, coordinated to match each seat of the Convocation.

And at the end of it all, a falling star.]

What have I done to deserve a gift from yourself? I-

[But he freezes, words dying on his lips as he opens and gingerly holds the scarf in his arms.

Slowly, gingerly, he inspects the entire length, eyes fixated on every detail. They devour hungrily, and for several long minutes he runs his hands over its length.

When he finally meets Obsidian's gaze, he looks...

Lost. Stricken.]

You... made this. For me?

[It is all he can do to take his eyes off of it, but the longer he holds it, the closer he cradles it to his heart.]

What could I ever have done to earn something so special? [He whispers.]

Deserve?

[For a moment, he pauses, considering how to phrase this as he gazes at Themis. The way he seems so uncertain as to the purpose of the present. Whereas Hythlodaeus had been entertained by his clothing and Emet-Selch touched by the canvas, this is an entirely different reaction than he'd been expecting.

And explaining suddenly feels that much harder.]

I am not always so very... eloquent with my words. [Often why he tends to simply nod in most situations when he can help it, but without Alphinaud speaking on his behalf more often than naught he's had to fill in with his own voice. Not that he could ask his young friend to participate in romance in such a way, but the point still stands.] So I thought to do action. To show you how you are remembered. How you are beloved, and cared for. To know what you cherish as well.

I will always wish that the end of our story together had been different. But at the same time, I am glad that we had a chance to reunite on more than one occasion.

Especially here.

[Themis is overcome with emotion, but rather than attempt to stem what he is feeling, to show control and an even demeanor... He allows it to flow freely. Not in tears, no.

It instead is the breaking of dawn. The rising sun over a glittering sea, colors overtaking a bland sky. He is here, he will be remembered, and that feeling washes over him in a technicolor storm of emotion.

Time for another truth.]

The end of our story... where I spoke to you, there at the shallows of the aetherial sea. Where I told you how I enjoyed the name, how I had no regrets. And wished you the best of journeys - in that world and beyond.

[He clutches the scarf to him, stepping close to Obsidian, a radiant smile stealing onto his face.]

With all that has recently happened... I experienced another timeline. I delved into Pandaemonium with you. Saw those sights with you. Felt the warmth of your aether as you kept me with you, told me I was still needed.

[One hand unwinds itself from the gift, reaching to caress Obsidian's face.]

I hold those memories now, of you - and now you truly are my falling star.

[There is something so beautifully bright in Themis' smile. When he had first witnessed it, Obsidian could feel his warmth then, and he feels now as well, yet so much more vibrantly.

But that last part does genuinely surprise him. Themis experienced that, with Obsidian as his Warrior of Light? There's a mixed emotion with that. Mostly in the joy of being known, but also...

Also.

Obsidian places his hand over Themis', pressing his cheek into the palm there.]

Even so, I would loathe for my face to haunt you.

[Though they have already more or less discussed this, he worries regardless. That with those memories now, they were friends and enemies both once.

He is a hero to many, just as much as he is a monster to be feared to others. Warrior of Light, Weapon of Light.]

[A shift of fingers on cloth, a hushed voice.

A confession.]

In my nightmares you shine brighter than the sun, such paltry light a pale imitation of your brilliance. In them, it is not with you whom I clash. Should we fight, it is side by side.

You haunt me, but not in the way you fear. My waking dreams turn to you, turn to how I feel for you. But they are sweet, not bitter, never bitter.

[He steps closer, invading Obsidian's space.]

I consider these memories a blessing, as now I have seen how magnificent you truly are with my own eyes. I care for you by choice, not by these memories, but I will not give you the falsehood that I am unaffected. My affections, my admiration of you, has grown.

My fallen star.

[He leans in to rest his head in the crook of Obsidian's neck, cradling the scarf even more closely.]

My fallen star.

[The confession is enough for him.

Suddenly, he embraces Themis fiercely, letting out a slow breath as if to release his fears. It's all he needs to hear to know he can lay those concerns to rest.]

...See, when you speak like that, tis why I have to make you things. You sound poetic.

[More warmly, he adds:] Then I am ever gladdened, to truly be yours. To be known. I shall not question again how I might linger in your mind.

[The embrace is returned just as fiercely, only the briefest moments of hesitation to ensure that his precious gift remains unharmed.]

Eloquence comes naturally to me, and I shall serenade you with my words at every opportunity. Such poetry do you deserve.

It gladdens me more than you know that your doubts are laid to rest.

[He pulls back, beaming up at Obsidian.]

Would you like to hear of them? Those you have stitched so lovingly - there are lifetimes of tales I could spin for you, since you enjoy my words so keenly.

[A groan escapes Hephaistos as he slowly stirs to awake. He’s disoriented and tired, very unlike his usual stoic self. He lays there for a while in a quasi-sleep, his red eyes peeking out from underneath his dark lashes. His eyes feel heavy, and his body stiff as he slowly stretches his arms above his head. Once done, he lays there on the pillows, almost tempted to fall back to sleep after such exertion. While he feels well-rested now, unlike before, he’s still drunk with sleep.

Hephaistos takes a moment to rub his eyes in a vain attempt to orient himself again. That is when the dulcet tone of crashing waves catches his attention. He sits up halfway from the pillows, his gaze sweeping across the great blue sea spread out before him like a painting. He stares at the distant horizon for a long while, his red gaze focusing on the tranquil blue waves. A confused hum escapes him as he glances around awkwardly in a fit of panic.

This isn’t the place Elidibus took him! Where is he? What in the world is happening—]

Edited 2023-06-29 21:03 (UTC)

[Lahabrea stirs, and Elidibus enjoys the slow rise to sleep by the other man. He had clearly needed the rest, but for him to become as comfortable as he had touches Elidibus’s heart. Arms firming in their hold around his fellow Ancient, Elidibus makes a calming noise.]

Be still, dearest Lahabrea, all is well.

[His voice is hushed, soothing, the smallest of smiles coloring his expression. His eyes especially, lids heavy with relaxation.]

I have but brought us near my abode, thinking you might enjoy the ocean surf. A bit of home to wake upon.

[Then those eyes, already luminous, begin to glitter with mirth, with glee. A teasing edge practically drips from every word, now.]

To think how unawares the great Lahabrea has become, laid low in my embrace - enough to forget my entire presence! Truly shocked and hurt has this made me, how shall I ever recover from such a thing?

[He winks, once, exaggerated. In truth he is not insulted at all, the teasing mock outrage though is needed - so rare was this occasion.]

I am forced to commit the sight to memory, you have left me no choice.

[Lahabrea nearly jumped the second he notices those brilliant cerulean eyes. He stares back at Elidibus in shock, his red eyes wide with alarm. For a second, he completely forgot where this was and who he was with. He was so tired that he did not notice the strong arms wrapped around him. Poor Lahabrea. It’s not like him to be caught unaware like this, and it shows. The tips of his ears darken with shame, almost as if they were dipped in scarlet. While blush doesn't reach his cheeks, a slight hint of panic crosses his features.]

Wait, when did we—[He trails off with a huff at that little quip, shifting slightly while still comfortable within Elidibus’ languid embrace.]

Tis the price you pay for lulling me to sleep with such a coyish guise. However, I was not unaware of your presence. I was merely surprised by the change of scenery, nothing more.

[He lies in an attempt to save face. The tips of his ears burn even hotter now, the redness definitely noticeable as he protests in this vulnerable state. However, soon his eyes narrow, and his jaw squares as he glares at Elidibus.]

What do you seek from me? Is this an elaborate ruse to win my favor?

[Lahabrea questions hotly with a hint of timbre in his voice despite having yet to peel Elidibus from him. He’s comfortable, far too comfortable for words to express. The man lays there staring into the Emissary’s gaze with so much fire and spice, and yet, he is sweetly pressed against him like some lovesick beau. It is mildly hilarious, especially since Lahabrea is known for his withering glares. However, his glare has little effect when he’s content to be held like this. So no matter how much those lips may lie, his body is honest.]

[Facial expressions, words and tone, all of this Elidibus commits to memory. So rare was the occasion. But it is not born of malice, no. Merely a desire to treasure these moments. The lie is answered with a knowing smile, it does not fool him in the slightest, not when Lahabrea makes no motions, apparently content enough to remain where he is. He cannot help but chuckle at the excuse, the fluster.

That accusation, however, faint though it is...]

It is my understanding, dearest Speaker, that I have already obtained your favor. Upon my election to my position, in fact, when I earned your respect for the first time - and then kept it for many, many years. I can hardly win that which I already possess.

[But he understands Lahabrea's history. Understands why he would accuse in such a manner, even if this particular instance was brought upon not by true suspicion, but by fluster and embarrassment. To that end, Elidibus would answer true. The humor drops from his face, leaving only bald sincerity.]

What answers I may give full well may fall under suspicion, but know I do not speak false when I tell you - I seek nothing from you, Lahabrea. I wish to do what I am able to ensure that happiness follows you, that you remain comfortable here. It is not transactional in nature. Merely a wish that one I love is well, is cared for, and to be allowed to show my affections freely.

[If Lahabrea wasn’t already thoroughly flustered before, he is most certainly flustered now. He gives the younger man a knowing look, his gaze quite sincere and honest as the lie upon his lips wants to state otherwise. He stares at Elidibus for a long while before glancing toward the sea again. A gentle sigh escapes him as the tips of his ears burn hotter. He is having a time comprehending Elidibus’ affections towards him, especially after spending so many decades alone after Athena’s horrible betrayal. While a part of him yearns for this level of intimacy, another part of him is scared to trust.]

Wishing to shower me with affection, are you? [He mumbles before gazing into those brilliant blue eyes.] I have nothing to offer you other than my compliance, especially since my rank and title mean very little anymore. The riches I’ve gained from my prestige are long gone with everything I held dear…except for one.

[A sigh escapes the man as he suddenly wraps his arms around Elidibus. This is a mock surrender to the emotions this foul bastard has stirred within him. He’s scared, so very scared, to trust again. Yet despite it all, he desperately wants to believe in every word Elidibus says. He’s truly pathetic, isn’t he? A wounded man with centuries worth of baggage. Lahabrea never hated himself as he does now for being so weak.]

[Elidibus merely holds Lahabrea, firmly but gently. It is an understandable reaction, the one he sees wash over Lahabrea. Confusion, at the hand being offered, the question of why such a thing may be so - and given so freely, at that. Other situations had shown Elidibus thusly that perhaps he was an outlier, a strange man for giving of himself so readily, holding true throughout his lifetime and still here in this strange place.

He listens, ever patient. Ever would he be patent.

There are some things which came innate to him, more still which he had refined the art of throughout time. The picking up of body language, of physical and verbal tells - all that one may not communicate but let slip regardless. He had known Lahabrea for so many years, had been through so much with the Speaker, had seen the worst skeletons that he'd locked away. So when Lahabrea shows those signs, of fear, of trepidation, Elidibus is ready.]

I ask nothing of you. Truly. What wants I may have are easily gained by my own hands alone, and it was never your rank nor your title which interested me.

[But mere words are not enough. Cannot be.]

Should there be ought that you need for me to prove my intentions, please, ask it of me. Unless you merely remain out of obligation.

[The thought had occurred to him. That perhaps Lahabrea did not truly want to be here, to be held by him. That perhaps he was doing so to prevent Elidibus's feelings from coming to harm.]

If that is the case, if you desire me to leave, ask, and I will not trouble you. What I desire has been stated - your happiness, nothing more, for it is you, the man, who I care for.

[A look of alarm settles upon his face when Elidibus mutters that last bit. He quickly latches onto him, wrapping his arms tighter around the youth to prevent him from leaving. His reaction was so fast that he didn’t have time to think. Just the thought of Themis leaving saddened him to his core. Hephaistos doesn’t want him to leave. That is the last thing he wants, but the fear and trepidation that took hold of him is still there.

However, a hint of hope remains within him that dares him to dream. If Elidibus is telling the truth, then he would be a fool to spurn his affections. This is why he clings to him now with such tenderness hidden within his gaze.]

My happiness…[He trails off briefly before beginning anew.] My happiness lies with you, with…whatever this is.

It’s not my intention to turn you away, nor shall I. Now that I know the sincerity behind your words, I find myself unable to let go. What I’ve always yearned for sits right before me, and I find myself shuddering at the thought of being made so vulnerable. However, I’m no coward. I freely accept all you have to offer with no fear. That is—as long as I may reciprocate.

[His grip on Elidibus loosens a bit. He seems to be at ease now. That is a good thing, isn’t it? The doubt that cleared his mind was dispelled at last. He lays there comfortably within Elidibus’ arms, hopeful that the others understand him.]

[The surge and sudden clinging is surprising, Elidibus taken aback slightly by the intensity of Lahabrea's reaction. Whatever doubts of his welcome though are instantly dispelled. This thing between them is still so new, but he feels the unfurling of something in his chest, the budding start of something beautiful. Needing only nurturing, a task Themis finds himself only too eager to do. Watering with love.]

Know that you are not alone in your vulnerability, for I lay myself bare before you. Should you desire to know me, you have but to ask, you have but to touch. To take all you are able.

[Though the nature of Amani is a sexual one, it is clear that Elidibus does not mean only that. To know one another down to the soul, that is what he offers, in soft words with a softer expression. The sounds of the sea, the soft breeze, the gentle blue sky above heightens the moment - almost as if they were home once more, in those halcyon days of paradise.

Themis is achingly beautiful amidst the scenery.]

What you give, I shall accept with open arms. Do not feel as if you must reciprocate, but should you, I will treasure every moment.

[He sees you, Lahabrea. He understands.]

In that end, would you allow me to help you build a home? We spoke of it before, but I would ensure the acceptance was sure.

[So different from Athena, he gives and gives.]

[Even though he’s rather embarrassed by his actions, Hephaistos can’t help but sigh in relief once he realizes Themis isn’t going anywhere. He stares curiously at him, his eyes widening in awe as he drinks in the sight of him. Elidibus was always admired and beloved by all, even among others outside of the Convocation. He was their Emissary, the one who would never die and carry on their legacy long after death. It’s enough to make Lahabrea speechless as he gazes at Elidibus with a newfound appreciation. While he doesn’t quite understand why Themis is so willing to share his love with him, Lahabrea doesn’t want to waste it.]

Of course, you have my blessing. I certainly would not mind the company as we build this home together. Besides, I fear my talent for creation magick doesn't hold much weight here.

[His tone is gentle, like a whisper. Gentle and sweet. It seems Lahabrea has decided to fully accept Themis and his offer. However, there is still something else that plagues his mind. This 'something' regarding the nature of this fickle realm.]

However, if you mean to present all of yourself to me, then…I certainly shall do the same.

[Wordlessly, Lahabrea suddenly slips out of Elidibus’ grasp with only a little push. A smile toys at the corners of his lips as he inches out of arm’s reach, putting some distance between them as he stands. While all of the Ancients were quite tall, Lahabrea was always notably taller than the rest, even if sometimes he felt so small. He gazes down at Elidibus in silence, his expression utterly unreadable, until he does the unthinkable and begins to disrobe. His black ceremonial robes cascade around him like ink, revealing what lies beneath.

While many others often wore their robes without a shirt, Lahabrea always felt the need to be covered. The high collar of his sleeveless shirt exposes his muscular shoulders and strong arms, but the leggings he wears leave very little to the imagination. He has a striking figure for a man his age, quite athletic and strong as expected of a paragon like him. However, no one would have expected this elderly fellow to be so...attractive.

While many have wondered what lies beneath the robes, Elidibus will be among the first to know outside his former wife. Between the sleeveless shirt, the sinful black leggings, and the matching tall sandal-like boots, Lahabrea really does make a striking figure. He is so fit and trim. While his arms aren't massive, they certainly seem quite well-defined. He's a handsome man, there's no other way to describe him. Even though he has a head full of silver and a beard to match, he's still quite handsome.]

As I stated before, I mean to offer you something for all your troubles even if the "gift" I bring is somewhat lackluster.

[Blue eyes look up, up as Lahabrea stands. As he disrobes. Many had wondered at Lahabrea's physique, that is true, and Elidibus was no exception. Idle wondering of fantasies he had long considered out of his grasp. Not so far, it seems. That tall, fit form was extremely pleasing to the eye, and Elidibus takes in the elder man from head to toe.

Standing himself, it is the work of moments to shuck his own robe, the white fabric falling free and revealing his own form, mask falling aside with it. Today Themis had forgone a shirt, clad now only in his white podea and brown shoes, completely bare from the waist up. His skin is quite fair, pale to an almost ethereal degree, and unmarred by all. No blemish, no scars marked him, wiped clean by the aetherial sea and leaving soft, smooth skin in its wake. He is very slender as well, lean, but with muscle definition that while small, hinted at the exceptional strength he possessed.

Swiftly stepping towards the taller man, Elidibus reaches upwards and grasps Lahabrea by the back of his head, gripping his hair and pulling him down to soundly press their lips together. He kisses thoroughly, conveying high emotion and desire, licking into Lahabrea's mouth to explore with both lips and tongue.

He pulls back, breath hot, to whisper fiercely.]

Never say that what you bring is lackluster, I will not stand to hear such blaspheme from lips as fine as yours. Nor will I allow such blatant lies about one as exquisite as yourself.

[His grip slackens, given them slightly more space, his voice increasing in volume but gentling all the same.]

Do not offer this from obligation of where we are. I would have you freely, of your own choice, or not at all - you deserve far more than coercion by the nature of this place.

Edited 2023-07-01 03:57 (UTC)

[While all of Eldibus’ sins been purged by the aetherial sea, Lahabrea stands before him with every scar he gained. The little faded scars along the biceps tell a story, just like ones on his forearms that are barely noticeable. Hephiastos has lived a long life, much of which was encased within a prison away from the other half of his soul. Even though a piece of him will always love Athena no matter what, he’s aware of the damage she wrought onto him, and he will not forgive it. This moment he shares with Themis is an outright rebellion against her. After suffering so many sleepless lonely nights, he’s finally ready to move on. Both Lahabrea and he are ready to move on past Athena. He wants her very name to be forgotten from his flesh and replaced with someone worthy. The only wish he truly has other than being an attentive father.

When Elidibus steps forward, he doesn’t step away. He stands his ground and gazes at the young man without fear. While trepidation still clings to his soul, Lahabrea is without fear. He allows those nimble fingers to curl into his hair, allowing the younger man to yank him down. The movement is smooth and calculated, much like everything else Elidibus does. Lahabrea finds himself forced to bend to Elidibus’ height as the other plunders his lips with abandon. The kiss is hot and passionate, a clear indicator of how much this silver-tongued youth truly wants him. As Themis’ tongue glides over his, any doubts he had about Elidibus are cast aside in favor of enjoying his taste. He chases after the taste with a delighted hum, clearly enjoying the sensation with no shame.

It isn’t until they part, that Lahabrea finds himself flustered yet again. He peeks back at Themis, his carmine gaze sparkling likes rubies with new appreciation. There’s a hint of playfulness in his demeanor now that Elidibus has loosened his grip on him. As much as he is discovering about himself, Lahabrea cannot help but be fascinated by what he discovered about Themis. The young man likes be in control, doesn’t he? This tickles him.]

I do not offer this with any semblance of duty but rather because of my own need. For too long I’ve placed the needs of others above myself, and I paid a hefty toll for it.

[He suddenly sinks to his knees in one fluid motion, never once tearing his gaze from those brilliant blue eyes.]

I offer this because I can. I offer this because it’s my right alone. I don’t care what this world says otherwise because I’m free from its judgment.

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