Only a little. [ There's no sense denying it. If he does, he runs the risk of Theo assuming worse. The last thing he wants is for it to seem like he's here out of obligation. ] Blind or not, it has been some time since I have stood before anyone like this. But 'tis nervousness only, nothing more.
[ He lowers himself into Theo's lap, holding his breath for a moment as skin first touches skin. Until his legs are in place, straddling Theo's hips at each side, he doesn't breath out. It's only when his weight settles in Theo's lap and his heart starts to settle in his chest that he releases the breath in a long sigh, a little shaky but joyful. ]
I know because I would not be here, were you not trusted. I know you would not wish for anything that did me harm. [ Carefully, he slides his hands up Theo's arms, fingertips sliding over the muscle of them to his shoulders. One hand stays there and one, the spoken one, keeps going. Trails up his throat to tilt his head upward just enough to kiss him, because sitting in Theo's lap makes him slightly taller instead of slightly shorter. ] My wish is to be close to you. That you should be happier for my presence than my absence.
Then I will do what I can to alleviate it. I will also continue to tell you that you have permission to warn me off in the case that I get overly assertive.
[ Because it will come to that. Theo already knows. Can sense it beneath his own skin. It's never been quite this heated or tense before. But then there hadn't been the emotional component before either. He recalls his sisters and mother telling him that it would be so, when Theo had truly connected with someone, but he had always doubted it.
His hands move from hips to the dip in the other's back. Purposefully he ignores the area that he knows the tail to be located at. Instead he focuses on the texture of the Exarch's skin against his finger tips and what muscle is there. Theo's eyes slide to half mast, that soft purr in his own throat from the hands that explore his own skin. Fire is left behind, nerve endings being triggered with the barest of touches.
Then a kiss. One he returns. Once. Then twice. ]
Hmm. Then you needn't worry. It has been that way for some time.
[ Really since the moment that Theo had recognized him. Knew who is hidden behind that cowl. But see with the Exarch being in his lap, the Viera is in a rather good position for what he does next. And that his shower the other's neck with kisses down to the collarbone. Then lift him slightly to press lips against the center of his chest. ]
[ He pauses when Theo repeats his own words back to him. Just for a second. Just for long enough to convince himself that no, the spell worked. The blindness is holding. It's a coincidence, only a coincidence.
No accusation follows. No demand to know why he's lying. Why he's here. Why he deserved to be the one to survive. Just kisses down his neck, over flesh and crystal alike. Hands on his back, lifting him. Lips against his best, close to his thumping, ringing heart.
Coincidence, then. Because even like this, he's certain Theo would never suffer to touch him if he knew. He sighs contentedly, trying to lose himself in the sensation again, as much as he dares. ]
Then it seems my wish was granted ere I even spoke it. [ He bows his head to hiss the top of Theo's, rubbing a cheek against one ear, giving a rumbling purr in response to Theo's clicking one. His tail snakes slowly back and forth, brushing over Theo's legs. ] I shall have to find a new one.
[ Of course. Coincidence. Whatever helps the Exarch keep moving on, even if it is denial. Even if he isn't doing a very good job at hiding himself in the end.
All of that, while it does matter, can be set aside for the moment. Because Theo, too, is having a bit of a time trying to not just lose more of his sense. It's growing increasingly difficult to not lose himself in the scent and sounds that the Exarch makes. The texture of warm skin and cool crystal even as his hands explore and roam over that back. Shoulders. Hips. As if Theo is mapping out the surface and memorizing every little flaw or identifying feature.
His ears fold a bit, to allow the other access to his head. But then that cheek rubs against a year and this time it's Theo's breath that catches. Close behind is a shuddering groan that has him squeezing the other frame tighter. ]
That isn't necessary.
[ Don't find a new wish. This one is fine. Theo would happily grant this one over and over as hands once more find hips and knead the skin. The red mage will press his face against the Exarch's chest, holding onto this person like he's so very precious.
Perhaps- [ And he falters for a moment, when Theo buries his face in his chest, holds him in a way that is somehow both delicate and desperate. Gentle as if he were made of spun sugar, unmoving as if he might be stolen away at any moment. Like he matters. Like the world might stop turning if anything befell him.
He doesn't know what to do with that, but he's lived that desperation long enough to recognise it in another. His voice is softer when he continues. He strokes his hands up and down Theo's back, and it's equal parts comfort and heated, desperate touching. ] -perhaps you are right. In this, there is no need to strive for more. I can bask in the knowledge that my wish is fulfilled and want for nothing.
[ He rubs his cheek against Theo's ear a few more times before kissing along it. Nipping carefully and lightly once or twice as he reaches the end. But he never addressed Theo's concerns from earlier. So he draws back a little - only a little, because a few ilms of distance between Theo's face and his chest is all their position allows. Reaches for Theo's face and guides it upward. Looks him in the eye, blind or not. ]
Worry not, my dear, dear friend. Overly assertive or not, I am not yet so hopelessly besotted with you that I would let yo do aught I did not wish for.
[ He is, of course. There is nothing, near enough, that he would not do for his guiding star. Save for that he knows full well that Theo would not want that. ]
[ The desperation stems from more than one place, of course. First and foremost really is just that need for the warmth another person brings to his bed. A feeling of touch and being touched in return. Theo is feeding off of it, of course. But then the second part does stem from the fact that he doesn't know what the man who had decided to hide is identity means to do. It's far too close to losing a friend again for the Viera to much like it. So perhaps that feeling is slipping into his actions.
But of course it's probably a good thing that his face remains there. Because the attention to his ears is dizzying. If he hadn't any sense left the red mage might have needed to adjust positions because it is maddening. The Exarch can feel how Theo's voice is muffled, as there's that slight echoing sound in the crystalline part of his frame from the biting. There's definitely an airy moan on his lips, though the other can probably feel that open mouth all the same. ]
Hmmm. I will continue to worry.
[ Though now the Exarch gets to see Theo's expression though the reverse can't be said. Flushed skin, making those freckles stand out, and even eyes a bit glazed over. Only a moment though, because Theo is pushing up once more to seek a kiss from lips. Yet this time his hands trail down over hip and bare thigh. Then back around again to, finally, where the base of that tail is. Oh he could move on from touching and feeling the other.
But he can wait. He can wait until the Exarch his comfortable, relaxes, and wanting just as badly as Theo is. ]
[ Of course, he is beautiful. He has always been beautiful, in all he does. But now more than ever, long eyelashes casting deep shadows over his eyes, revealing only the faintest sliver of piercing green. Constellations of freckles.
He is only too willing to kiss again. Bruising in intensity at first - oh, his lips will be swollen later, and visible beneath the hood besides, but it is hardly as if he intends to leave any time in the near future. Then softer, as Theo's hands slide over his thighs, eventually broken by a long sigh.
So far, he's been quiet in all things. His words haven't risen above a whisper. And so the long, desperate groan that leaves him when Theo's hand slides over the sensitive base of his tail is- not loud, by any reasonable standard, but near-deafening compared to any sound to leave him up until now. ]
What- mmn- what might I do, then? [ His hands are still on Theo's face, cradling it as he leans to press their foreheads together. ] To soothe your worries.
[ It's a good intensity. One of those kisses that causes a bloom of heat in his chest. Though who is to say that those lips won't continue to stay bruised throughout the next couple of days. It will be a hard thing not to think about it since those lips are the only feature that is readily able to be seen.
The groan doesn't have to be loud. To Theo's ears it might as well be. Such a sound has them twitching and closing his eyes. He needs to take a deep breath, a stuttering one and he brushes their noses together. Theo is soaking it all in. That itch in the back of his mind being soothed for the moment. ]
Is it too forward to say that touching me in return will go a long way?
[ He's gotten a reaction from that tail. Thus fingertips continue to stroke the base that tail. Two fingers up and down the spine, all the way to that tail and back up again. The other slides up the Exarch's side. Across the shoulder blades and into hair. Theo tangles fingers there, though he wants to go after an ear.
It's like he's waiting for permission for that as well. ]
[ The bulk of his tail isn't particularly sensitive. But the base of it, where it meets his spine, very much is. He arches into the touch. And he doesn't voice any more of his reaction, but even his heavy breathing is soft and warm.
His hands slide downwards. Fingertips ghosting over Theo's neck, then running along his collarbone to his shoulders. ]
I fear that, perhaps, the time when anything might have been too forward has passed. There is very little you could ask of me, lovely warrior mine, that might be improper. There never has been. [ And he lowers his head to kiss at Theo's neck, fingernails travelling down his back now. Lightly. Barely deep enough to leave little fading trails in their wake, nowhere close to leaving even the lightest scratches. ] Certainly not now. Ask what you will, my friend.
[ The more he says it, the more the emphasis seems to be on 'my' and not 'friend'. The kiss grows teeth as he tilts his head so his closest ear falls into Theo's hand, and this one is enough to leave a mark. A faint one, but a mark nonetheless. ]
[ Soft and warm is really all he needs. Theo can feel the way that the other moves against his touch. Just encourages the Viera to press against those key spots at the base of the tail all the harder. More deliberate, looking for those reactions.
Not that Theo is without reactions on his side of things. A soft sigh. A hum with every touch. Kiss. A twitch of an ear and a groan. The slight bite of nail and actual bite of teeth do much to stir Theo. ]
Keep. Keep doing that.
[ Kissing him. Blessing his skin with those small morsels of attention. Not that Theo is missing the emphasis on the words that the Exarch is using. Warrior mine. And my friend. Oh yes. That emotion is definitely being conveyed and Theo can feel something very different begin to stir.
Right as he takes hold of that ear with his free hand. Fingers and thumb squeezing along the edge, rubbing at the tender area there. ]
[ Whatever response the Exarch might have made, it's drowned in the flesh of Theo's neck. The groan emboldens him and he twists his head a little more to get a new angle, to push his ear into Theo's waiting hand for more of that touch.
He bites down.
He'll heal the mark later. Any marks he leaves. Leave his warrior exactly as he found him. But until he does, it will be there. He twists his head again, alternating gentle, soothing kisses with forceful, bruising ones and more bites. ]
Of course.
[ As he kisses, he lowers himself back down ilm by ilm. It's not deliberate, at first, merely a product of needing to reach Theo's neck comfortably. It's only when the back of his thighs touches against Theo's lap that he realises. For a moment he goes still. Then he gathers his courage (G'raha Tia would be overwhelmed and embarrassed here, but the Exarch would never be). Digs his fingernails into Theo's sides. Kisses softly at his neck.
And nervously, cautiously, rolls his hips in Theo's lap. ]
[ If the Exarch likes it so much, then perhaps Theo should supply more of it. In the form of nails lightly scratching the sensitive skin there. The red mage knows what he likes, that bit of dangerous pressure, so perhaps the Exarch does as well. At least that is the assumption here.
He can't really ask about it. There's a bite and another, more guttural groan follows. Theo very well may not allow for any marks to be healed. The Exarch might have to do it when Theo is asleep. Of course this behavior is only going to encourage it from Theo in kind.
But not right now though. While he would like to occupy his mouth with biting in return, the Exarch is providing an excellent distraction. Which means that he's going to, instead, be breathing out more sounds to reach the other's ears. At least until that hand guides an ear to Theo's mouth and then he's the one leaving kisses and nibbles along the edges.
The stillness doesn't register, actually. Theo's starting to slip a little further into a warm buzz. But he definitely notices that timid way that hips roll. Now Theo doesn't mean to, but he does bite down a bit harder on that ear to stifle the noise that threatens to fall out of his lips. One hand squeezes the base of the Exarch's tail because that -
That is definitely a way to tell Theo what some intentions are. ]
[ It's a shame, perhaps, that Theo can't see his face in that moment. As the twin sensations of teeth against his ear and a hand squeezing at the sensitive collection of nerves that usually serves to maintain his balance threaten to overwhelm him, the bite of pain heightening his awareness of every other sensation. But perhaps he can guess. Because the Exarch's legs squeeze tightly against Theo's hips. Because the way he tenses fades too quickly to be discomfort. Because when his lips break their seal against Theo's neck the sound that leaves them is half desperate and half almost-musical, somewhere between a whine and a note sung and held.
Perhaps he can guess because once his lips leave Theo's neck his head rests against his shoulder for just a moment, and Theo doesn't need to see that his eyes are heavy with wanting when he can feel the eyelashes fluttering against his bare skin, feel how warm and ragged the his breath is when the sound leaves it, and the rumbling purr beneath it. ]
I- [ And he almost apologises, because of course he does. Too much, too soon, and the man he used to be couldn't bear to be so forward. And then he second-guesses his own second-guessing and cuts himself off. Rallies himself and fumbles for something else to say. ] -I am yours. As I said. Entirely.
[ And one day he will see it in a different context, of course. Right now he can't see anything. However he thinks he can guess from that squeeze and the lack of shoving Theo away. Or a sound of pain since there's none to be heard. Rather what the red mage hears instead is wonderful. It goes straight to his gut and it's Theo that's huffing into the Exarch's ear.
When he feels the forehead against his shoulder, Theo continues to nuzzle into that ear. Once more he's trying to control his breathing. It's continuing to come along in a shaky manner. Just as thick and hoarse as the Exarch's is. That sound is just amazing to him and causes his body to shudder underneath the slightly smaller one. Theo can even feel that tail swishing about. ]
And that, dearheart, is the very reason you are simply going to see me undone.
And I anticipate it all too gladly, my love. [ Oh. That was not the word he was meaning to use. He looks up, twisting his head as he does so that rather than pulling his ear away from the nuzzling of Theo's face, he's moving his own face into it. Rubbing their cheeks together before moving just enough to kiss him again. It's meant to be a distraction from that word, but really it only serves to punctuate it. ] Would that I could offer you the same.
[ This is all so much more tender than he had expected. Then Theo had spoken of needing restraint, he had assumed that he would be surrendering his body to be consumed, just as he had to the tower. And he was more than content with that. But this? This is so much better.
There are, of course, other things that Theo does not need his sight to be able to know. The heat of the parts of him that are yet flesh. The matching him of aether coursing through those that are stone. And, yes, pressed close as he is to Theo now- ]
I shall [ He swallows, trying to banish G'raha Tia's uncertainty back to the grave with the rest of him. ] prepare myself, if you wish. Or- or prepare you. Or if you wish either task for yourself, I shall guide you.
[ That's certainly not something that Theo had anticipated - that the other's feelings would run that deeply. Admiration, yes. A type of love that is more for a companion but a partner. Yet here it is. A sentiment spoken so tenderly and even the Viera can tell how embarrassing of a slip it can be. There's a kiss that's meant to distract and it will work. If only because it's not important to focus upon.
At least not now. Instead he's going to kiss him back. ]
You may yet.
[ Viera... Viis... Built a little differently. Yes, there is very much that carnal portion of this that needs to be dealt with. And it will. However, it's far more than that. It's also a drive to connect. To fulfill the needs of the soul since they are usually parted for years at a time. Once again, a connection in more ways than just flesh - though that is a very large part of it.
There's a nervousness there though. Theo can sense it. Hear it in the Exarch's voice. This time both hands glide around the other's jaw. Cup cheeks briefly before stroking both ears with thumbs. Theo's following kiss comes with a bite and a gentle rocking of hips. For certain he can feel how their kisses and touches have affected the Exarch. They have cause the same sort of reaction in Theo as well. ]
[ He will not, he knows. Cannot. And by the end of this, it will be best for all of them that he does not try. But nor can he say that. So he lies.
Eventually it will strike him that that is what this is - a way for the often-isolated viera to contain years worth of connection within a few days. To stave off loneliness. To steel themselves for the loneliness to come. The tenderness will make more sense, then. And it will feel a great deal more presumptuous that he asked to be Theo's partner for this.
He pauses, when Theo asks that. Theo can't see him bite his lip, but he can probably hear the way the movement of his mouth changes the sound of his breath. Feel the way his hands falter and then return to touching him, a thousand times more tender and gentle now. In truth, he hadn't thought much of his own words. I am yours, entirely. It was merely a statement of fact.
But now he hears them repeated back to him, as heart-lifting with joy as they are heavy with responsibility. He draws back, just a little. His voice goes low. ]
[ And in a couple of years ( or sooner depending on if he aligns with his fellow Viera again on the Source ) he would like to ask this of the other again. In the future that's coming, though neither one know it in the moment, it's a possibility.
No, Theo can't see it. Though does he need to? His ears continue to twitch with every little sound. He attempts to paint a picture in his mind's eyes regarding what must be in front of him. Is the Exarch debating? Trying to figure out how to proceed? If he even wants to? Theo can tell when some of it has been worked out, when fingertips begin to dance across his skin.
Then the other pulls away and it's Theo's breath that's hitching at the low tone. So it's been decided. ]
If at any point you become uncomfortable, we can stop.
[ He says this, but surely the Exarch can read more into aether than Theo is capable. Should likely tell how the Viera is practically singing as he presses a kiss to lips once more before shifting. Making himself comfortable to lie down and bare himself before the other. ]
I know. [ He shuffles from the side of the bed to stand at its side, leaning over Theo to kiss him. His unbound hair falls around their faces like a curtain. For a second, he can see only the Viera's face. His heavy eyes and starlike freckles and lips dark and swollen from kissing. ] I shall do nothing that I do not wish to. You have my word.
[ His hair brushes over Theo's face when he stands back up. That ringing sound again, glass on glass, as his crystal fingers lift the vial. The hand of flesh rests on his collarbone and begins trailing down slowly. Over his chest, pausing to drag a thumb lightly over a nipple. Over the muscle of his stomach. Over ribs. Over scars, old and newer. ]
One day, in happier times, I would hear the tales behind these. [ He pauses at one he doesn't remember seeing when he used to catch glimpses of his tentmate in the wilds of Mor Dhona. From the battle with the dread wyrm, perhaps. It would match the writings of Lord Edmont Fortemps. He draws his thumb over it as he speaks. His voice is warm. Awed. Still low and heavy, yes, but the need is patient. He can pause a moment to learn Theo's body. ] You've the makings of an epic writ upon your skin, my friend. And I would hear every word, if you would share it.
[ And his hand moves away, replaced after a few seconds first by the graze of hair against Theo's skin, then lips. ]
[ On Theo's side of things, he rather wishes that he could see the Exarch's features. He expects that he'd see heated mismatched eyes. Just how much have things changed? How aged must they also appear? Alas all he can really do is imagine what it must be like. A hand combs through what he knows to be reddish hair, half of it continuing to brush against his cheeks.
Has he always been quite so attached to this particular Miqo'te? Or is it really a case of absence making the heart fonder. ]
'Tis all I ask.
[ Since active and willing participant is what makes all of this so appealing. Now as the other shifts and moves to grab that bottle, Theo isn't going to just lie back and do nothing at all. Oh no. His own hands explore what he can reach. Likely sides and the expanse of the Exarch's stomach as he feels the touch upon his own skin more acutely with one of his senses being robbed of him.
He breathes out a sigh as scars are traced. Over his chest and there's a shiver with that thumb. His own hands rove over the Exarch's chest and back towards the ears. Theo intends to take advantage of the fact that they are exposed and that he can run his thumbs over the edges for the time being. ]
If you wish to know then I will - Ah</>... [ A breathy little sigh when touch is replaces with kisses. ] I w-will happily recount it...
[ As Theo's hands move over him, he sighs out a fond-sounding huff of air. ]
Please. I would hear every moment of your journeys. [ He continues moving down Theo's body, in kisses now as well as touches. He whispers between kisses as his mouth moves from chest to stomach to hips. ] Share in the joys of them. See that the sorrows might not come to pass again.
[ That rumbling purr begins again when Theo's hands reach his ears. They're soft, mostly, but the fur is worn to almost nothing in places, where it's rubbed against the hood in the same places for years on end. Like a stuffed animal loved so long that it's grown threadbare.
Slowly, pushed on by that sigh, the tremble in Theo's voice, he works his way to Theo's thighs. Slides his hand underneath one carefully, lifting it so that he can kiss at the flesh of the inside of it. ]
[ Unfortunately, the Exarch is never going to be able to convince anyone that he doesn't harbor some kind of feelings for the Warrior of Light and Darkness. Especially when he speaks so fondly to him and in such tones. Yet unsurprisingly it's these two that will likely remain in the dark... ]
Perhaps when night fully returns to the sky permanently for all... I will.
[ Not that anyone can chase off sorrows completely. Theo just doesn't say this. Instead he relishes in the purring and how it feels against his body. Basks in the attention, kisses and hands gracing his body at all. The Viera is not ashamed of his physique. Doesn't get embarrassed or attempt to hide any part of himself from another.
He takes his time too, nails scratching against the surface of scalp and ear alike. Theo wishes that he could actually watch the Exarch go about this, but he's made a promise and he'll stick to it of course. Then the kiss comes to his thigh and what comes out isn't a sigh or a gasp.
But the Exarch might not actually know as Theo might have quickly covered his mouth to muffle it in mild surprise. At himself. ]
At journey's end, then. When the last warden is fallen and my work is done.
[ Is it cruel, to be making promises he will never keep? Almost certainly.
But right now, it almost feels like he might keep his word. He can almost believe that when this all ends joyfully, he might see it.
For a fraction of a second, he almost thinks that the noise is one of discomfort. That the sudden withdrawal of Theo's hands from his ears is a bad sign. Almost stops, before he thinks better of it.
But he does think better of it. And so until he's told to stop, he will keep going. He kisses the thigh again, more forcefully this time. Open-mouthed, sucking lightly at the skin. Teeth grazing it. ]
[ If Theo has his way, people will see it. In his mind he's already lost this person once and will not suffer it again if he can do something about it.
It's a good thing that the Exarch doesn't stop. Really it's only one hand covering the Viera's mouth. The other is still holding onto that ear. And yes it is holding because he can't quite control the impulse to squeeze with those kisses. Surely Theo can't be blamed for fingers curling and tightening in that long hair, tugging when there's continued attention to such a sensitive area and he can feel that tongue fluttering and the Exarch sucking in a breath.
Though not even his hand can stop the Exarch from hearing the moan at the sucking and the sudden teeth being added. Theo's body is certainly honest with how interested he is in what the Exarch seems to be doing. ]
[ It's unexpected, the way that the tugging at his hair fills his stomach with fire and butterflies in equal measure. After hiding behind his hood for so long, attention to it, to his ears, to everything that has had to be a secret for the last century, is overwhelming. He shudders with it, and it takes him a moment to recognise what he feels in this moment as impatience
Oh, for so long he has been able to do little but wait. And now, he finds, he seems to have lost the capacity. The moan chases away the doubt that struck him a moment ago, spurs him onward. So he nips at the flesh a few times, enough to bruise but not to break skin, and this time he doesn't think of how he'll need to heal the marks later. If anything he thinks of how any time Theo's thighs chance to brush together, he'll feel that garden of little bruise rings and remember where they came from.
And as he sucks and bites at the inside of Theo's thigh, his hand trails up the back of it. Slides under his ass, squeezing at it, fingers creeping into the cleft. And for a moment he waits, but not much longer than a moment. ]
You're- you are certain?
[ He sounds nervous, yes. But more than that, he sounds excited. Which is to say that he sounds exactly like G'raha Tia. ]
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sandwichbasket) wrote2021-11-26 01:03 am
no subject
[ He lowers himself into Theo's lap, holding his breath for a moment as skin first touches skin. Until his legs are in place, straddling Theo's hips at each side, he doesn't breath out. It's only when his weight settles in Theo's lap and his heart starts to settle in his chest that he releases the breath in a long sigh, a little shaky but joyful. ]
I know because I would not be here, were you not trusted. I know you would not wish for anything that did me harm. [ Carefully, he slides his hands up Theo's arms, fingertips sliding over the muscle of them to his shoulders. One hand stays there and one, the spoken one, keeps going. Trails up his throat to tilt his head upward just enough to kiss him, because sitting in Theo's lap makes him slightly taller instead of slightly shorter. ] My wish is to be close to you. That you should be happier for my presence than my absence.
no subject
[ Because it will come to that. Theo already knows. Can sense it beneath his own skin. It's never been quite this heated or tense before. But then there hadn't been the emotional component before either. He recalls his sisters and mother telling him that it would be so, when Theo had truly connected with someone, but he had always doubted it.
His hands move from hips to the dip in the other's back. Purposefully he ignores the area that he knows the tail to be located at. Instead he focuses on the texture of the Exarch's skin against his finger tips and what muscle is there. Theo's eyes slide to half mast, that soft purr in his own throat from the hands that explore his own skin. Fire is left behind, nerve endings being triggered with the barest of touches.
Then a kiss. One he returns. Once. Then twice. ]
Hmm. Then you needn't worry. It has been that way for some time.
[ Really since the moment that Theo had recognized him. Knew who is hidden behind that cowl. But see with the Exarch being in his lap, the Viera is in a rather good position for what he does next. And that his shower the other's neck with kisses down to the collarbone. Then lift him slightly to press lips against the center of his chest. ]
no subject
No accusation follows. No demand to know why he's lying. Why he's here. Why he deserved to be the one to survive. Just kisses down his neck, over flesh and crystal alike. Hands on his back, lifting him. Lips against his best, close to his thumping, ringing heart.
Coincidence, then. Because even like this, he's certain Theo would never suffer to touch him if he knew. He sighs contentedly, trying to lose himself in the sensation again, as much as he dares. ]
Then it seems my wish was granted ere I even spoke it. [ He bows his head to hiss the top of Theo's, rubbing a cheek against one ear, giving a rumbling purr in response to Theo's clicking one. His tail snakes slowly back and forth, brushing over Theo's legs. ] I shall have to find a new one.
no subject
All of that, while it does matter, can be set aside for the moment. Because Theo, too, is having a bit of a time trying to not just lose more of his sense. It's growing increasingly difficult to not lose himself in the scent and sounds that the Exarch makes. The texture of warm skin and cool crystal even as his hands explore and roam over that back. Shoulders. Hips. As if Theo is mapping out the surface and memorizing every little flaw or identifying feature.
His ears fold a bit, to allow the other access to his head. But then that cheek rubs against a year and this time it's Theo's breath that catches. Close behind is a shuddering groan that has him squeezing the other frame tighter. ]
That isn't necessary.
[ Don't find a new wish. This one is fine. Theo would happily grant this one over and over as hands once more find hips and knead the skin. The red mage will press his face against the Exarch's chest, holding onto this person like he's so very precious.
Because he is. ]
no subject
He doesn't know what to do with that, but he's lived that desperation long enough to recognise it in another. His voice is softer when he continues. He strokes his hands up and down Theo's back, and it's equal parts comfort and heated, desperate touching. ] -perhaps you are right. In this, there is no need to strive for more. I can bask in the knowledge that my wish is fulfilled and want for nothing.
[ He rubs his cheek against Theo's ear a few more times before kissing along it. Nipping carefully and lightly once or twice as he reaches the end. But he never addressed Theo's concerns from earlier. So he draws back a little - only a little, because a few ilms of distance between Theo's face and his chest is all their position allows. Reaches for Theo's face and guides it upward. Looks him in the eye, blind or not. ]
Worry not, my dear, dear friend. Overly assertive or not, I am not yet so hopelessly besotted with you that I would let yo do aught I did not wish for.
[ He is, of course. There is nothing, near enough, that he would not do for his guiding star. Save for that he knows full well that Theo would not want that. ]
no subject
But of course it's probably a good thing that his face remains there. Because the attention to his ears is dizzying. If he hadn't any sense left the red mage might have needed to adjust positions because it is maddening. The Exarch can feel how Theo's voice is muffled, as there's that slight echoing sound in the crystalline part of his frame from the biting. There's definitely an airy moan on his lips, though the other can probably feel that open mouth all the same. ]
Hmmm. I will continue to worry.
[ Though now the Exarch gets to see Theo's expression though the reverse can't be said. Flushed skin, making those freckles stand out, and even eyes a bit glazed over. Only a moment though, because Theo is pushing up once more to seek a kiss from lips. Yet this time his hands trail down over hip and bare thigh. Then back around again to, finally, where the base of that tail is. Oh he could move on from touching and feeling the other.
But he can wait. He can wait until the Exarch his comfortable, relaxes, and wanting just as badly as Theo is. ]
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He is only too willing to kiss again. Bruising in intensity at first - oh, his lips will be swollen later, and visible beneath the hood besides, but it is hardly as if he intends to leave any time in the near future. Then softer, as Theo's hands slide over his thighs, eventually broken by a long sigh.
So far, he's been quiet in all things. His words haven't risen above a whisper. And so the long, desperate groan that leaves him when Theo's hand slides over the sensitive base of his tail is- not loud, by any reasonable standard, but near-deafening compared to any sound to leave him up until now. ]
What- mmn- what might I do, then? [ His hands are still on Theo's face, cradling it as he leans to press their foreheads together. ] To soothe your worries.
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The groan doesn't have to be loud. To Theo's ears it might as well be. Such a sound has them twitching and closing his eyes. He needs to take a deep breath, a stuttering one and he brushes their noses together. Theo is soaking it all in. That itch in the back of his mind being soothed for the moment. ]
Is it too forward to say that touching me in return will go a long way?
[ He's gotten a reaction from that tail. Thus fingertips continue to stroke the base that tail. Two fingers up and down the spine, all the way to that tail and back up again. The other slides up the Exarch's side. Across the shoulder blades and into hair. Theo tangles fingers there, though he wants to go after an ear.
It's like he's waiting for permission for that as well. ]
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His hands slide downwards. Fingertips ghosting over Theo's neck, then running along his collarbone to his shoulders. ]
I fear that, perhaps, the time when anything might have been too forward has passed. There is very little you could ask of me, lovely warrior mine, that might be improper. There never has been. [ And he lowers his head to kiss at Theo's neck, fingernails travelling down his back now. Lightly. Barely deep enough to leave little fading trails in their wake, nowhere close to leaving even the lightest scratches. ] Certainly not now. Ask what you will, my friend.
[ The more he says it, the more the emphasis seems to be on 'my' and not 'friend'. The kiss grows teeth as he tilts his head so his closest ear falls into Theo's hand, and this one is enough to leave a mark. A faint one, but a mark nonetheless. ]
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Not that Theo is without reactions on his side of things. A soft sigh. A hum with every touch. Kiss. A twitch of an ear and a groan. The slight bite of nail and actual bite of teeth do much to stir Theo. ]
Keep. Keep doing that.
[ Kissing him. Blessing his skin with those small morsels of attention. Not that Theo is missing the emphasis on the words that the Exarch is using. Warrior mine. And my friend. Oh yes. That emotion is definitely being conveyed and Theo can feel something very different begin to stir.
Right as he takes hold of that ear with his free hand. Fingers and thumb squeezing along the edge, rubbing at the tender area there. ]
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He bites down.
He'll heal the mark later. Any marks he leaves. Leave his warrior exactly as he found him. But until he does, it will be there. He twists his head again, alternating gentle, soothing kisses with forceful, bruising ones and more bites. ]
Of course.
[ As he kisses, he lowers himself back down ilm by ilm. It's not deliberate, at first, merely a product of needing to reach Theo's neck comfortably. It's only when the back of his thighs touches against Theo's lap that he realises. For a moment he goes still. Then he gathers his courage (G'raha Tia would be overwhelmed and embarrassed here, but the Exarch would never be). Digs his fingernails into Theo's sides. Kisses softly at his neck.
And nervously, cautiously, rolls his hips in Theo's lap. ]
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He can't really ask about it. There's a bite and another, more guttural groan follows. Theo very well may not allow for any marks to be healed. The Exarch might have to do it when Theo is asleep. Of course this behavior is only going to encourage it from Theo in kind.
But not right now though. While he would like to occupy his mouth with biting in return, the Exarch is providing an excellent distraction. Which means that he's going to, instead, be breathing out more sounds to reach the other's ears. At least until that hand guides an ear to Theo's mouth and then he's the one leaving kisses and nibbles along the edges.
The stillness doesn't register, actually. Theo's starting to slip a little further into a warm buzz. But he definitely notices that timid way that hips roll. Now Theo doesn't mean to, but he does bite down a bit harder on that ear to stifle the noise that threatens to fall out of his lips. One hand squeezes the base of the Exarch's tail because that -
That is definitely a way to tell Theo what some intentions are. ]
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Perhaps he can guess because once his lips leave Theo's neck his head rests against his shoulder for just a moment, and Theo doesn't need to see that his eyes are heavy with wanting when he can feel the eyelashes fluttering against his bare skin, feel how warm and ragged the his breath is when the sound leaves it, and the rumbling purr beneath it. ]
I- [ And he almost apologises, because of course he does. Too much, too soon, and the man he used to be couldn't bear to be so forward. And then he second-guesses his own second-guessing and cuts himself off. Rallies himself and fumbles for something else to say. ] -I am yours. As I said. Entirely.
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When he feels the forehead against his shoulder, Theo continues to nuzzle into that ear. Once more he's trying to control his breathing. It's continuing to come along in a shaky manner. Just as thick and hoarse as the Exarch's is. That sound is just amazing to him and causes his body to shudder underneath the slightly smaller one. Theo can even feel that tail swishing about. ]
And that, dearheart, is the very reason you are simply going to see me undone.
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[ This is all so much more tender than he had expected. Then Theo had spoken of needing restraint, he had assumed that he would be surrendering his body to be consumed, just as he had to the tower. And he was more than content with that. But this? This is so much better.
There are, of course, other things that Theo does not need his sight to be able to know. The heat of the parts of him that are yet flesh. The matching him of aether coursing through those that are stone. And, yes, pressed close as he is to Theo now- ]
I shall [ He swallows, trying to banish G'raha Tia's uncertainty back to the grave with the rest of him. ] prepare myself, if you wish. Or- or prepare you. Or if you wish either task for yourself, I shall guide you.
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At least not now. Instead he's going to kiss him back. ]
You may yet.
[ Viera... Viis... Built a little differently. Yes, there is very much that carnal portion of this that needs to be dealt with. And it will. However, it's far more than that. It's also a drive to connect. To fulfill the needs of the soul since they are usually parted for years at a time. Once again, a connection in more ways than just flesh - though that is a very large part of it.
There's a nervousness there though. Theo can sense it. Hear it in the Exarch's voice. This time both hands glide around the other's jaw. Cup cheeks briefly before stroking both ears with thumbs. Theo's following kiss comes with a bite and a gentle rocking of hips. For certain he can feel how their kisses and touches have affected the Exarch. They have cause the same sort of reaction in Theo as well. ]
Am I not leaving myself in your care? Entirely?
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[ He will not, he knows. Cannot. And by the end of this, it will be best for all of them that he does not try. But nor can he say that. So he lies.
Eventually it will strike him that that is what this is - a way for the often-isolated viera to contain years worth of connection within a few days. To stave off loneliness. To steel themselves for the loneliness to come. The tenderness will make more sense, then. And it will feel a great deal more presumptuous that he asked to be Theo's partner for this.
He pauses, when Theo asks that. Theo can't see him bite his lip, but he can probably hear the way the movement of his mouth changes the sound of his breath. Feel the way his hands falter and then return to touching him, a thousand times more tender and gentle now. In truth, he hadn't thought much of his own words. I am yours, entirely. It was merely a statement of fact.
But now he hears them repeated back to him, as heart-lifting with joy as they are heavy with responsibility. He draws back, just a little. His voice goes low. ]
Lie back, then. Let me care for you.
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No, Theo can't see it. Though does he need to? His ears continue to twitch with every little sound. He attempts to paint a picture in his mind's eyes regarding what must be in front of him. Is the Exarch debating? Trying to figure out how to proceed? If he even wants to? Theo can tell when some of it has been worked out, when fingertips begin to dance across his skin.
Then the other pulls away and it's Theo's breath that's hitching at the low tone. So it's been decided. ]
If at any point you become uncomfortable, we can stop.
[ He says this, but surely the Exarch can read more into aether than Theo is capable. Should likely tell how the Viera is practically singing as he presses a kiss to lips once more before shifting. Making himself comfortable to lie down and bare himself before the other. ]
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[ His hair brushes over Theo's face when he stands back up. That ringing sound again, glass on glass, as his crystal fingers lift the vial. The hand of flesh rests on his collarbone and begins trailing down slowly. Over his chest, pausing to drag a thumb lightly over a nipple. Over the muscle of his stomach. Over ribs. Over scars, old and newer. ]
One day, in happier times, I would hear the tales behind these. [ He pauses at one he doesn't remember seeing when he used to catch glimpses of his tentmate in the wilds of Mor Dhona. From the battle with the dread wyrm, perhaps. It would match the writings of Lord Edmont Fortemps. He draws his thumb over it as he speaks. His voice is warm. Awed. Still low and heavy, yes, but the need is patient. He can pause a moment to learn Theo's body. ] You've the makings of an epic writ upon your skin, my friend. And I would hear every word, if you would share it.
[ And his hand moves away, replaced after a few seconds first by the graze of hair against Theo's skin, then lips. ]
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Has he always been quite so attached to this particular Miqo'te? Or is it really a case of absence making the heart fonder. ]
'Tis all I ask.
[ Since active and willing participant is what makes all of this so appealing. Now as the other shifts and moves to grab that bottle, Theo isn't going to just lie back and do nothing at all. Oh no. His own hands explore what he can reach. Likely sides and the expanse of the Exarch's stomach as he feels the touch upon his own skin more acutely with one of his senses being robbed of him.
He breathes out a sigh as scars are traced. Over his chest and there's a shiver with that thumb. His own hands rove over the Exarch's chest and back towards the ears. Theo intends to take advantage of the fact that they are exposed and that he can run his thumbs over the edges for the time being. ]
If you wish to know then I will - Ah</>... [ A breathy little sigh when touch is replaces with kisses. ] I w-will happily recount it...
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Please. I would hear every moment of your journeys. [ He continues moving down Theo's body, in kisses now as well as touches. He whispers between kisses as his mouth moves from chest to stomach to hips. ] Share in the joys of them. See that the sorrows might not come to pass again.
[ That rumbling purr begins again when Theo's hands reach his ears. They're soft, mostly, but the fur is worn to almost nothing in places, where it's rubbed against the hood in the same places for years on end. Like a stuffed animal loved so long that it's grown threadbare.
Slowly, pushed on by that sigh, the tremble in Theo's voice, he works his way to Theo's thighs. Slides his hand underneath one carefully, lifting it so that he can kiss at the flesh of the inside of it. ]
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and Darkness.Especially when he speaks so fondly to him and in such tones. Yet unsurprisingly it's these two that will likely remain in the dark... ]Perhaps when night fully returns to the sky permanently for all... I will.
[ Not that anyone can chase off sorrows completely. Theo just doesn't say this. Instead he relishes in the purring and how it feels against his body. Basks in the attention, kisses and hands gracing his body at all. The Viera is not ashamed of his physique. Doesn't get embarrassed or attempt to hide any part of himself from another.
He takes his time too, nails scratching against the surface of scalp and ear alike. Theo wishes that he could actually watch the Exarch go about this, but he's made a promise and he'll stick to it of course. Then the kiss comes to his thigh and what comes out isn't a sigh or a gasp.
But the Exarch might not actually know as Theo might have quickly covered his mouth to muffle it in mild surprise. At himself. ]
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[ Is it cruel, to be making promises he will never keep? Almost certainly.
But right now, it almost feels like he might keep his word. He can almost believe that when this all ends joyfully, he might see it.
For a fraction of a second, he almost thinks that the noise is one of discomfort. That the sudden withdrawal of Theo's hands from his ears is a bad sign. Almost stops, before he thinks better of it.
But he does think better of it. And so until he's told to stop, he will keep going. He kisses the thigh again, more forcefully this time. Open-mouthed, sucking lightly at the skin. Teeth grazing it. ]
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It's a good thing that the Exarch doesn't stop. Really it's only one hand covering the Viera's mouth. The other is still holding onto that ear. And yes it is holding because he can't quite control the impulse to squeeze with those kisses. Surely Theo can't be blamed for fingers curling and tightening in that long hair, tugging when there's continued attention to such a sensitive area and he can feel that tongue fluttering and the Exarch sucking in a breath.
Though not even his hand can stop the Exarch from hearing the moan at the sucking and the sudden teeth being added. Theo's body is certainly honest with how interested he is in what the Exarch seems to be doing. ]
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Oh, for so long he has been able to do little but wait. And now, he finds, he seems to have lost the capacity. The moan chases away the doubt that struck him a moment ago, spurs him onward. So he nips at the flesh a few times, enough to bruise but not to break skin, and this time he doesn't think of how he'll need to heal the marks later. If anything he thinks of how any time Theo's thighs chance to brush together, he'll feel that garden of little bruise rings and remember where they came from.
And as he sucks and bites at the inside of Theo's thigh, his hand trails up the back of it. Slides under his ass, squeezing at it, fingers creeping into the cleft. And for a moment he waits, but not much longer than a moment. ]
You're- you are certain?
[ He sounds nervous, yes. But more than that, he sounds excited. Which is to say that he sounds exactly like G'raha Tia. ]
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