[ 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. ]
[ That is a thought that might have crossed Theo's mind: how long has it been since the Exarch has had another touch his ears? His tail? What about his hair?
He can keep going though. All those bites - hard enough to leave bruises - definitely has Theo spiraling more towards the sexual cravings rather than just pure companionship. Theo will certainly be blushing to himself later when he sees them there. Though he might commit them to memory all the same.
See, the Exarch isn't the only one excited here. On the verge of losing patience. Because he can feel that hand slide along his backside. Feel the warmth of that breath fan against the more sensitive areas of his body. It's dizzying and taking his breath away. ]
Yes. [ He's certain. Oh so certain. ] I have never been more certain.
[ And so, just for a moment, he withdraws. The ringing sound of glass again, and when his hand returns to Theo's backside the fingers of it are slick. They glide back effortlessly to where they were, then further 'til he finds Theo's entrance. And there they remain, circling around it for a moment, teasing but not yet breaching.
This, he has done before, and slightly more recently than he would like to admit. But only to himself, with his body's perception of pain muddled by the tower. So he's careful, impatient or not. ]
Pray, do not- [ He swallows, and even his breath sounds heavy and low. ] -do not allow me to hurt you.
[ He can at least avoid hurting Theo in this one thing, even if he cannot avoid it in anything else. And with that he slowly, cautiously, pushes inward. ]
[ The sound of glass against crystal isn't really an attractive sound. However it does tell Theo what the other is up to. What to expect. Yet even though he knows that those slickened fingers are coming, it's still like a kick to the gut. In the best of ways, of course, but it still has the Viera sucking in a breath. It still makes him squirm, a heel digging into the bed underneath him.
Theo wishes that he could see, that he could gaze upon the Exarch's expression even with the teasing. Is he enjoying it? Take pleasure from making Theo grab at the blankets and gasp?
Because Theo certainly does. Especially with that tone of voice that hits him right between the legs. ]
You won't.
[ because Theo trusts him. Completely. The intrusion is, of course, isn't anything that he's felt in a long time. So it's not entirely comfortable, but at the same time? He arches just slightly and closes his eyes. ]
[ When Theo's fingers curl into the sheets, he stops breathing. His heart keeps beating its strange bell-like thumps, but the sound of his breath is gone. He simply forgets to, too entirely captivated by the sight. Eventually, the sound of breath begins again, desperate at first and then slow and heavy.
It is, perhaps, no substitute for seeing his face. But there's no shortage of proof that the Exarch cannot take his eyes away from the warrior arching and squirming in response to his touch.
The intrusion is as careful as any of this has been so far, and slower by a great deal. First timid, tentative dips. Then a little further. Then further still. Then a withdrawal before his fingers return, newly slick again, and the process begins again with a second finger. Throughout, once the Exarch remembers to breathe again, his breaths are oversteady, ragged and unusually loud. ]
You are so very, very beautiful, like this. 'Tis truly unnecessary. I doubt any could fail to adore you, regardless.
[ And with that, he carefully begins to curl his fingers. ]
[ Once he's able to get hands on the Exarch, there might be marks on flesh. Though Theo is going to have to be patient. So kneading the blankets beneath him will have to do until he can touch the other properly.
Honestly Theo couldn't care less about how confident his partner is. The movement is more than enough. Even Theo turns his face for a moment into the pillow to muffle a sound once he gets used to it. His body actually is keyed up for this. Wanting and making any discomfort fade in favor of this basic need being met. Really the Exarch isn't the only one that is having issues breathing. Throughout this, the Viera's breath catches. He holds it, only to release it in a stuttering, almost soundless response.
He's able to catch his breath when the Exarch temporarily retreats. Turn slightly and look at him as he speaks and a second finger soon added has him breathless again. Beautiful. That's what he's calling Theo. He wonders if that's the case, lips parted and chest rising and falling with puffs of breath. Hair starting to cling to his forehead and cheeks. ]
To do- to do otherwise would be unforgivably dishonest.
[ And it is a shame that he cannot return this gift in kind. He would not be nearly so lovely in slowly unravelling, he is certain, even without crystal consuming his flesh like rot. But if he could be even a splinter of this, it would still be something precious. Something beautiful, that he would give to Theo in a heartbeat if only he could.
He cannot, and so the small kiss he presses against Theo's hip must serve as an unworthy substitute. And he is not entirely certain that he will ever be able to let go of the viera, once this is done.
This time, when he withdraws. It takes a moment longer. A moment to consider how best to fit their bodies together. Another to make certain that he is properly prepared himself. And then, nervously at first, he slides a hand under one of Theo's thighs. Lifts it, taking a moment to kiss softly over those half-formed bruises, and moves it aside. Then the other, rearranging limbs so he can fit himself between Theo's legs.
His spoken hand is trembling with excitement again when it grips at Theo's hip. The crystal one is still, but its grip is far tighter until he catches himself and loosens his hold do something less bruising. He pauses, pressed against Theo's entrance, like he means to say something.
But he says nothing, in the end. He's already slipped once. He doesn't trust himself, not in this moment. Instead of words, his breath catches for a few seconds before he lets out a long, heavy breath through clenched teeth, biting back some other sound as he begins to push inside. ]
It's hardly - [ His words die on his tongue for a moment feeling the kiss to his hip. It's so incredibly tender that it aches. ] It's hardly necessary.
[ And the next moments apart gives him time to think himself. Of this situation and of the man that is most assuredly making his skin crawl in the best of ways and his blood burn. There's a delicious ache between his trembling legs and the air thick and tense. Theo regrets not being able to see because the Exarch must also be a sight - the Viera is convinced of this even if the other is not. A cascade of reddish locks, no doubt. Lips just as bruised, if not slightly chapped from a place chewed. Eyes sparkling with mischief and delight.
At least this is what Theo pictures it must be like. And he also would very much like to return the favor one day.
That's why a mistake has been made here. Allowing temptation on his literal doorstep to override what common sense and good judgement he has. After all of this, how could Theo possibly think to ever spend this time another way? Theo thinks he might finally have an inkling about what his sisters and brothers had described to him in the past about their own joinings and how the felt in the moment. Only Theo is not quite like they. He doesn't feel as though he can be parted for years on end...
He's limp as the other moves his legs about and then grasp at hips. Even the slight bruising force of one doesn't really bother Theo. The sound he makes isn't exactly one of pain. Rather it's a for the love of everything please continue. Instead Theo begins to get restless at the hesitation.
At least until the Exarch moves and it's not mere fingers this time that slowly begin to fill the Viera. There is a hiss, of course. Hands darting out to grasp his partner by the shoulders. But it's not a plea to stop by any means. It's a good thing that the movement is taking the air out of his lungs, because how Theo's lips move would indicate he's saying something
It isn't necessary at all. Very little of this is.
[ It's overwhelming, the sensation of pressure and warmth against the sensitive skin. Far more than he was expecting, even with careful preparation. It knocks the air out of his own lungs as surely as it does Theo's, and his own air leaves him as a low, sigh, one that collects more and more voice toward the end of it. Thankfully, by now, he's caught on that if in doubt, he should keep going. When Theo's hands squeeze at his shoulders, it only takes him a moment's hesitation before he continues.
It isn't an attempt to make him stop, he is fairly certain. No. It's that Theo wants to touch him. As unnecessary as the flattery, but just as important. ]
I want to flatter you, as sure as I want to see you happy and well, as sure as I want to be here. Want you. This. Everything.
[ He pushes in a little, withdraws almost entirely, and pushes back in. A little further each time. It's slow, just as everything else has been so far, far too slow to be considered anything like thrusting, but this time the slowness is as much for his own sake as it is for Theo's. His hands remain on Theo's hips, using them to pull the two of them apart and together again. ]
[ Theo's voice becomes low. Almost a growl - not quite like one a Miqo'te would have, mind. ]
Oh I'd argue that it's become very necessary...
[ Because he definitely wants this. The Viera has conflicting thoughts, somewhere between knowing that this will likely become something that crosses his mind when he looks at the Exarch later and wanting this again and also knowing it can't happen. Or, rather, that the Exarch himself might not want it again.
Yes, Theo hears the words. That it is wanted. That Theo's happiness matters. It's enough to chase everything else away for now. Just opening him up for accepting and giving himself over to that want and desire for now. ]
Oh...
[ It's actually quite overwhelming. Those words. The gentle way that the other rocks into Theo and stretches further. Right now the slow pace is fine. Makes his chest tight and heart full because it's most certainly not all about meeting a physical demand. There's more to it than that and the Viera just holds on. His hands roam over shoulders. Blunt nails dig into flesh ( and crystal ) when the other slowly pushes further inside, when he pulls Theo back against him.
Give him a moment because he might be trying to pull the Exarch into another heated kisses. ]
[ He will want, of course, despite all of his best efforts. Because, gods preserve him, he is weak. He will want and want and want every last detail of this, from the warmth of Theo's body around him and the sensation of nails biting into one side of his hip and glancing off the other to the undeniable proof that, at least in this moment, he is wanted. Valuable. The kind of precious thing that ought to be kept close, rather than the kind that should be locked away somewhere safe.
He will want, but he is well-practiced at denying himself. This is justifiable now, just about, even if he has allowed it to get out of hand. It's easy to hide behind the knowledge that this will make Theo's time here easier. Later there will be no such justification, and he cannot allow his own selfish desires to place everything in peril. ]
You'll live, with or- [ When Theo starts trying to pull him into a kiss, it changes their positions just slightly. Just enough to catch him off-guard and snatch the air from his lungs in the form of a short, undignified noise. A little too much voice in it to be a growl, and not quite close enough to words to be anything else. ] -with or without an old sinner in your bed.
[ He lets Theo pull him in, kissing him again. ]
-I admit, I should very much prefer it to be with.
[ Is that not what he s? A precious thing that should be kept close rather than at arms length? At least Theo has been growing more fond now than he had in the past. More and more he is finding that this time he's not sure how it is that even he will let go.
Not that Theo is right now. Oh no. That is the farthest thing in his mind at the moment. Because he has his hands already on the Exarch. If anyone is being selfish, it is the Viera. He's not really giving him a chance to speak, not at first. Not with that kiss. Yeah, it might make the Exarch's position sift enough to drive deeper, not that Theo minds. Quite the contrary, really. So while that not entirely a growl, but sort of a growl fills the space between them, Theo also makes an embarrassing sound.
The comment, however, even with the second kiss coming and Theo electing to be something of a brat and rocking his hips in encouragement, makes Theo laugh. Breathlessly, but laugh all the same. It comes against lips, enough that the Exarch can likely feel the smile there. ]
If it is an consolation... I also prefer with.
[ Now his hands once more find the base of the Exarch's ears. Thumbs rub in small circles as he brings their lps together again. ]
[ He whispers it back against Theo's lips, pushing his own smile into them. and it feels strange to say it aloud. Presumptuous, to tease Theo about wanting him here, knowing that that wanting will fade as this condition passes (it will. It must, because if it does not he has endangered everything in his selfishness). And Good. He wants to say it again, I know that you want me here, over and over, to keep feeling the smile on Theo's lips. He can practically taste the laughter, and that precious, beautiful sound that escaped him when their position changed.
Perhaps he would say it again, save for that the rocking of Theo's own hips against him knocks the air out of his lungs again. The lips sealed against his own that the thumbs massaging the sensitive base of his ears keep him from breathing in again. It's all he can do to still his own hips long enough to maintain what ragged composure he has left, and only most of the moan that leaves him when he finally manages to get enough air into his body for it is muted by Theo's lips. ]
You might make it easier, if you would rather I be here. [ It's not really a complaint. He slides his spoken hand upward from Theo's hip, stroking over his ribs and then sliding beneath his back so he can trail his fingers back down over his spine, press fingertips in to the spot where tail meets body. Testing to see if the nerves there are as sensitive on a viera as they are on a mystel. ] You are not the only one struggling with restraint, I fear.
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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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He can keep going though. All those bites - hard enough to leave bruises - definitely has Theo spiraling more towards the sexual cravings rather than just pure companionship. Theo will certainly be blushing to himself later when he sees them there. Though he might commit them to memory all the same.
See, the Exarch isn't the only one excited here. On the verge of losing patience. Because he can feel that hand slide along his backside. Feel the warmth of that breath fan against the more sensitive areas of his body. It's dizzying and taking his breath away. ]
Yes. [ He's certain. Oh so certain. ] I have never been more certain.
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This, he has done before, and slightly more recently than he would like to admit. But only to himself, with his body's perception of pain muddled by the tower. So he's careful, impatient or not. ]
Pray, do not- [ He swallows, and even his breath sounds heavy and low. ] -do not allow me to hurt you.
[ He can at least avoid hurting Theo in this one thing, even if he cannot avoid it in anything else. And with that he slowly, cautiously, pushes inward. ]
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Theo wishes that he could see, that he could gaze upon the Exarch's expression even with the teasing. Is he enjoying it? Take pleasure from making Theo grab at the blankets and gasp?
Because Theo certainly does. Especially with that tone of voice that hits him right between the legs. ]
You won't.
[ because Theo trusts him. Completely. The intrusion is, of course, isn't anything that he's felt in a long time. So it's not entirely comfortable, but at the same time? He arches just slightly and closes his eyes. ]
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It is, perhaps, no substitute for seeing his face. But there's no shortage of proof that the Exarch cannot take his eyes away from the warrior arching and squirming in response to his touch.
The intrusion is as careful as any of this has been so far, and slower by a great deal. First timid, tentative dips. Then a little further. Then further still. Then a withdrawal before his fingers return, newly slick again, and the process begins again with a second finger. Throughout, once the Exarch remembers to breathe again, his breaths are oversteady, ragged and unusually loud. ]
You are so very, very beautiful, like this. 'Tis truly unnecessary. I doubt any could fail to adore you, regardless.
[ And with that, he carefully begins to curl his fingers. ]
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Honestly Theo couldn't care less about how confident his partner is. The movement is more than enough. Even Theo turns his face for a moment into the pillow to muffle a sound once he gets used to it. His body actually is keyed up for this. Wanting and making any discomfort fade in favor of this basic need being met. Really the Exarch isn't the only one that is having issues breathing. Throughout this, the Viera's breath catches. He holds it, only to release it in a stuttering, almost soundless response.
He's able to catch his breath when the Exarch temporarily retreats. Turn slightly and look at him as he speaks and a second finger soon added has him breathless again. Beautiful. That's what he's calling Theo. He wonders if that's the case, lips parted and chest rising and falling with puffs of breath. Hair starting to cling to his forehead and cheeks. ]
You flatter...
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[ And it is a shame that he cannot return this gift in kind. He would not be nearly so lovely in slowly unravelling, he is certain, even without crystal consuming his flesh like rot. But if he could be even a splinter of this, it would still be something precious. Something beautiful, that he would give to Theo in a heartbeat if only he could.
He cannot, and so the small kiss he presses against Theo's hip must serve as an unworthy substitute. And he is not entirely certain that he will ever be able to let go of the viera, once this is done.
This time, when he withdraws. It takes a moment longer. A moment to consider how best to fit their bodies together. Another to make certain that he is properly prepared himself. And then, nervously at first, he slides a hand under one of Theo's thighs. Lifts it, taking a moment to kiss softly over those half-formed bruises, and moves it aside. Then the other, rearranging limbs so he can fit himself between Theo's legs.
His spoken hand is trembling with excitement again when it grips at Theo's hip. The crystal one is still, but its grip is far tighter until he catches himself and loosens his hold do something less bruising. He pauses, pressed against Theo's entrance, like he means to say something.
But he says nothing, in the end. He's already slipped once. He doesn't trust himself, not in this moment. Instead of words, his breath catches for a few seconds before he lets out a long, heavy breath through clenched teeth, biting back some other sound as he begins to push inside. ]
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[ And the next moments apart gives him time to think himself. Of this situation and of the man that is most assuredly making his skin crawl in the best of ways and his blood burn. There's a delicious ache between his trembling legs and the air thick and tense. Theo regrets not being able to see because the Exarch must also be a sight - the Viera is convinced of this even if the other is not. A cascade of reddish locks, no doubt. Lips just as bruised, if not slightly chapped from a place chewed. Eyes sparkling with mischief and delight.
At least this is what Theo pictures it must be like. And he also would very much like to return the favor one day.
That's why a mistake has been made here. Allowing temptation on his literal doorstep to override what common sense and good judgement he has. After all of this, how could Theo possibly think to ever spend this time another way? Theo thinks he might finally have an inkling about what his sisters and brothers had described to him in the past about their own joinings and how the felt in the moment. Only Theo is not quite like they. He doesn't feel as though he can be parted for years on end...
He's limp as the other moves his legs about and then grasp at hips. Even the slight bruising force of one doesn't really bother Theo. The sound he makes isn't exactly one of pain. Rather it's a for the love of everything please continue. Instead Theo begins to get restless at the hesitation.
At least until the Exarch moves and it's not mere fingers this time that slowly begin to fill the Viera. There is a hiss, of course. Hands darting out to grasp his partner by the shoulders. But it's not a plea to stop by any means. It's a good thing that the movement is taking the air out of his lungs, because how Theo's lips move would indicate he's saying something
Thankfully a sound doesn't escape discern what. ]
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[ It's overwhelming, the sensation of pressure and warmth against the sensitive skin. Far more than he was expecting, even with careful preparation. It knocks the air out of his own lungs as surely as it does Theo's, and his own air leaves him as a low, sigh, one that collects more and more voice toward the end of it. Thankfully, by now, he's caught on that if in doubt, he should keep going. When Theo's hands squeeze at his shoulders, it only takes him a moment's hesitation before he continues.
It isn't an attempt to make him stop, he is fairly certain. No. It's that Theo wants to touch him. As unnecessary as the flattery, but just as important. ]
I want to flatter you, as sure as I want to see you happy and well, as sure as I want to be here. Want you. This. Everything.
[ He pushes in a little, withdraws almost entirely, and pushes back in. A little further each time. It's slow, just as everything else has been so far, far too slow to be considered anything like thrusting, but this time the slowness is as much for his own sake as it is for Theo's. His hands remain on Theo's hips, using them to pull the two of them apart and together again. ]
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Oh I'd argue that it's become very necessary...
[ Because he definitely wants this. The Viera has conflicting thoughts, somewhere between knowing that this will likely become something that crosses his mind when he looks at the Exarch later and wanting this again and also knowing it can't happen. Or, rather, that the Exarch himself might not want it again.
Yes, Theo hears the words. That it is wanted. That Theo's happiness matters. It's enough to chase everything else away for now. Just opening him up for accepting and giving himself over to that want and desire for now. ]
Oh...
[ It's actually quite overwhelming. Those words. The gentle way that the other rocks into Theo and stretches further. Right now the slow pace is fine. Makes his chest tight and heart full because it's most certainly not all about meeting a physical demand. There's more to it than that and the Viera just holds on. His hands roam over shoulders. Blunt nails dig into flesh ( and crystal ) when the other slowly pushes further inside, when he pulls Theo back against him.
Give him a moment because he might be trying to pull the Exarch into another heated kisses. ]
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He will want, but he is well-practiced at denying himself. This is justifiable now, just about, even if he has allowed it to get out of hand. It's easy to hide behind the knowledge that this will make Theo's time here easier. Later there will be no such justification, and he cannot allow his own selfish desires to place everything in peril. ]
You'll live, with or- [ When Theo starts trying to pull him into a kiss, it changes their positions just slightly. Just enough to catch him off-guard and snatch the air from his lungs in the form of a short, undignified noise. A little too much voice in it to be a growl, and not quite close enough to words to be anything else. ] -with or without an old sinner in your bed.
[ He lets Theo pull him in, kissing him again. ]
-I admit, I should very much prefer it to be with.
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Not that Theo is right now. Oh no. That is the farthest thing in his mind at the moment. Because he has his hands already on the Exarch. If anyone is being selfish, it is the Viera. He's not really giving him a chance to speak, not at first. Not with that kiss. Yeah, it might make the Exarch's position sift enough to drive deeper, not that Theo minds. Quite the contrary, really. So while that not entirely a growl, but sort of a growl fills the space between them, Theo also makes an embarrassing sound.
The comment, however, even with the second kiss coming and Theo electing to be something of a brat and rocking his hips in encouragement, makes Theo laugh. Breathlessly, but laugh all the same. It comes against lips, enough that the Exarch can likely feel the smile there. ]
If it is an consolation... I also prefer with.
[ Now his hands once more find the base of the Exarch's ears. Thumbs rub in small circles as he brings their lps together again. ]
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[ He whispers it back against Theo's lips, pushing his own smile into them. and it feels strange to say it aloud. Presumptuous, to tease Theo about wanting him here, knowing that that wanting will fade as this condition passes (it will. It must, because if it does not he has endangered everything in his selfishness). And Good. He wants to say it again, I know that you want me here, over and over, to keep feeling the smile on Theo's lips. He can practically taste the laughter, and that precious, beautiful sound that escaped him when their position changed.
Perhaps he would say it again, save for that the rocking of Theo's own hips against him knocks the air out of his lungs again. The lips sealed against his own that the thumbs massaging the sensitive base of his ears keep him from breathing in again. It's all he can do to still his own hips long enough to maintain what ragged composure he has left, and only most of the moan that leaves him when he finally manages to get enough air into his body for it is muted by Theo's lips. ]
You might make it easier, if you would rather I be here. [ It's not really a complaint. He slides his spoken hand upward from Theo's hip, stroking over his ribs and then sliding beneath his back so he can trail his fingers back down over his spine, press fingertips in to the spot where tail meets body. Testing to see if the nerves there are as sensitive on a viera as they are on a mystel. ] You are not the only one struggling with restraint, I fear.
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