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Post by featherleg on Jan 27, 2021 15:15:49 GMT -5
Selena was astonished that he was the one that painted all the pieces that were on display, especially considering how many there were and the scale of the canvases themselves. “Lucas, that’s incredible.” She grinned at her brother in support. “I think the blues work just fine. Working with a monotone color palette can be difficult but the way you made it work in this space just flows.” ----------------------------- Dasco listened to her, taking note of her concerns, all of which were valid. Having lived a majority of his vampiric life in the Embrian Court, he was no stranger to the feeling of isolation caused by the restrictions placed on him. To never see his hometown again or even step foot into the cities and towns he was tasked with protecting was a pressure that was ever present, some days more so than others. To have her go through the same difficulties...it made his heartache. Taking a deep breath in, he nodded in understanding as he kissed her forehead. “I will do my utmost to keep those freedoms, those choices, secured for you. However, we both may need to make sacrifices from time to time, but know I will be there for you, always. Your happiness is my top priority, Hannah.” Misty |
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Post by Misty on Jan 27, 2021 21:09:59 GMT -5
“Rowan got me into painting years ago. I didn’t think too much about decorating with my art until I impulse bought some big ass canvases and started painting them.” Now, every place Lucas lived had his art on the walls. “And it helps with... everything.” The issues he still needed to work through, the parts of himself that he wasn’t happy with. “I’ve had a lot of practice at figuring out what does and doesn’t work in a space,” he laughed. “I have an easier time decorating with a monotone color palette than a multicolored one. I like the result better, too.” ~~~ “As long as I don’t have to completely sacrifice those freedoms and choices.” Hannah’s fingers brushed over her lip ring. Oh, there was no way she was going to completely give it up. She could compromise by wearing a clear retainer while attending to Court business, but that was it. Covering her tattoos was easy enough to do, too. She was less willing to compromise on her wardrobe, though maybe Dasco would be able to help her pick items that covered a little more skin but still made her feel hot as hell. “Then I’m positive this is the life I want. No one could ever make me happier than you do, and I know you think the same of me.” She smiled softly at him before pressing a kiss of her own to his cheek. featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Jan 29, 2021 0:05:19 GMT -5
To see the effect that Rowan had left on him in both a physical and emotional space, even if they weren’t together currently, showed Selena in that moment how much they meant to each other. How they had helped each other in the past and continued to do so, despite the distance. She laughed softly along with him. “Whatever works, right? I’m really impressed though, Lucas.” The tone she said it in was one only expressed between siblings. The recognition of the others work, the support and understanding in it. “Maybe you could paint me a canvas in the future? I’ll buy the supplies for it if you need more.” ------------------------------ “I promise you won’t.” Dasco said as he smiled tenderly at her, the concern that was once held in his eyes burning away and instead replaced by utter joy. His eyes closed as she kissed his cheek, a dark blush running across them. “You....gods, Hannah, I can’t even express how much this means to me. How much you mean to me.” His hand moved to cradle the back of her head as he rested his forehead once more against hers. “You alone set me ablaze. You know that, right? No one else can render me speechless like you do.” Misty |
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Post by Rosestar on Jan 29, 2021 0:55:38 GMT -5
Rosestar Aika blinked a few times at him, her eyes filled with surprise at first which then turned over to excitement as he agreed that they could go on a date in the future. She smiled back at him in turn as she nodded softly and tried her best to ignore the feeling of butterflies rising in her stomach. “R-Right. Okay, it’s a date then.” Having since regained her composure--well, for the most part anyways--, Aika still sat in his embrace, though her arms were now more relaxed around Dalton’s shoulder and neck. As they sat together on the bed, a few things dawned on her. First, the fact that neither of them had pulled away from the other since Dalton had held onto her shoulders. Well, technically they had at points, but they had never let go of each other entirely. Next was the fact that the memories he had been seeing probably wouldn’t stop for some time, and she might have to be on standby to help him in recalling them properly. The last thing of note wasn’t as important as the other two, but she couldn’t help but stifle a laugh as she looked him over briefly, deciding to think on the first two more at a later point. “So, question. Is there a reason you’re still in your day clothes? I’ve read about detectives sleeping in their work attire before. I didn’t realize the myth was true until now.” Her eyes flickered towards his undone tie and button up, which had become increasingly more wrinkled since he had entered the room. Dalton stopped, face scrunched up in confusion at her question. Then he glanced down at himself, and indeed, he was still in his work uniform, as she had pointed out. He had forgotten in the turmoil of the moment. "Oh. I suppose I thought I wouldn't be here so long. I had come in here with a brief question, really." He sighed, and leaned against her at that. It seemed like so long already, for something that happened earlier that evening. Imagine if he had decided to wait to ask Aika about Zeus. Then where would they both be? Clearly, there was much relief to be found in each other's companion and honesty. |
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Post by featherleg on Jan 29, 2021 1:59:59 GMT -5
Rosestar She had almost forgotten his original intention of entering the room and speaking to her, considering all that they had talked about and revealed to one another since she had let him in. Aika had only noticed now how much darker the room had become, even with the lamp that sat dimly on the side table that held her small pile of belongings. As Dalton leaned back into her, she nearly fell back out of surprise into the bed they were sitting on as she wasn’t expecting him to continue to hold onto her. She whispered an apology in response to his answer as silence fell on them again, leaving her unsure of what to do or say next as the rain continued to fall outside. The whole mood between them was soft, reassuring, comforting. In truth, Aika felt oddly at peace. A little lighter. A bit more like herself. Would she feel the same way right now if he hadn't knocked on her door? If he had left earlier, satisfied with her answer about the call to his brother? She let those thoughts go as she rested her head on top of his shoulder, giving into the warmth of his presence again. A memory of them tangling together came to mind, a reflection of how they held onto each other now. Aika smiled fondly as she closed her eyes. “Hey, Dalt? Thank you...for everything.”
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Post by Misty on Jan 29, 2021 22:47:13 GMT -5
“Whatever works,” Lucas repeated. Hearing that Selena was supportive of him made him smile, and he was now glad that he had shown Selena the apartment. “I can do that for you if you’d like me to, but you wouldn’t have to worry about buying me supplies.” ~~~ “Just as I’ll never be able to fully express how much you mean to me.” There wasn’t a single thing Hannah could do for Dasco that properly conveyed just how much she loved him, just how much she was happy with him. “Of course I do, Dear.” She curled a hand around his wrist. “As lovely as this is, I would like to start moving my books from home into the library.” It was too early in the day to remain in bed with Dasco for the remainder of the day. featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 1, 2021 23:20:41 GMT -5
MistyShe rolled her eyes as she waved him off while taking a seat on the couch. “Just humor me this one time.” Selena started nibbling on one of the cookies she had bought at the Observatory as she settled into the space. “How are you feeling about everything that’s happened today?” ------------------------------------- Dasco tilted his head to the side in a questioning manner before he sighed and leaned his head back into the pillows behind him with a look of defeat on his face. “I should have accounted for that in the grand scheme of things. What a clumsy error to make.” He muttered as he stared up at the canopy of the bed in frustration. Exhaling, he straightened himself against the headboard as he gazed back at her. “You’ll be back for dinner, yes? I’d rather not eat alone.”
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Post by Misty on Feb 2, 2021 0:21:15 GMT -5
“It’s been a day.” Lucas plopped into a chair beside the couch before he leaned over to take his shoes off. “A long-ass day, and I’m glad it’s nearly over.” He had started the day with the memory search and no knowledge of his family, and he was going to end the day with the knowledge that his two younger sisters were both alive. “I’m glad that we were able to spend most of it together, though. I wouldn’t have been able to go to Court on my own. I probably wouldn’t have gone at all if I had been on my own.” ~~~ “Yes, I will be back for dinner.” Hannah pressed a kiss to Dasco’s cheek before getting out of bed to redress. She decided against wearing the formal, business clothes of the Court since she was going home, as well as to the store to purchase boxes and packing materials for her books. After dinner, she was going to spend the remainder of the evening in the library, organizing her bookish things and reading on the couch. “Don’t get too grumpy while I’m gone, okay? I’ll be back in a couple of hours.” True to her word, Hannah had returned to Court a couple hours later. She had packed as many boxes as she could fit into her car, and her bedroom at home was considerably less cozy now that her bookshelves in there were bare. She didn’t want to have to spend another night there, and now, she wouldn’t have to. The Court was her home now. She set the last box down on a table in the library and wiped her hands against her leggings as she made her way over to another box she had brought in. She pulled the cardboard flaps open, revealing a blanket packed at the top of the box. She took it out and tossed it onto the couch. It perfectly matched the accent pillows Dasco had selected. featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 3, 2021 0:34:58 GMT -5
Selena nodded along as she listened to him, becoming a bit bashful upon hearing how glad he was to have her with him throughout the day's events. “I’m glad you allowed me to be by your side for it. Honestly...before the memory search, I thought you were going to keep pushing me away. But I’m glad you didn’t, and that you trusted me enough to help you with entering the Court and registering yourself there. I think it takes a lot of courage to step into the unknown, even if you have someone like myself there to guide you.” ------------------------- As Hannah got ready to leave, Dasco stayed in the bed, his arms crossed over his chest as he attempted to think of how to occupy himself while she was away. He had already attended all the meetings scheduled for today, and there was no pressing matter to work on in regards to paperwork. Seeing that she was leaving the room soon, he quickly threw on a set of lounge wear that was off to the side before giving her a kiss goodbye on her forehead. “Be safe, alright?” After spending the last few hours trying to compose a piece for piano, Dasco threw another piece of parchment into the fireplace of his bedroom. He paced back and forth in front of the hearth, racking his head for a theme or motif to inspire him, but nothing came. He had been in this slump for years now and had yet to find a solution. Pulling back the sleeve of the cardigan he now wore, his wristwatch indicted that Hannah should have returned to the Court by now. She’ll probably want to stay in the library for tonight. He thought as he made his way to the kitchen that was reserved for himself and any guests staying within the Court. Despite having a full kitchen staff, Dasco had always preferred making dinner on his own, especially when Hannah was staying there. Knowing that there was no rush to get to the library, he took his time in making them one of his favorite dishes from home, Chicken Piccata. It was a simple but delicious dish that his mother had made him often. He only hoped Hannah would love it as much as he did. Carefully with a serving cart, Dasco made his way to the library, knocking on the two grand doors upon his arrival. Misty |
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Post by Misty on Feb 3, 2021 14:22:16 GMT -5
“If I hadn’t gone through with the memory search, today wouldn’t have happened. I don’t think I would have remembered you on my own.” Lucas hadn’t remembered much of his human life beyond his last moments before the memory search. If left on his own, he doubted that he would have remembered that Selena was his sister. “So I’m glad it happened, overall. I would have hated myself if I had spent more time acting cold toward you.” ~~~ Each of the boxes in the library was now opened, and some of the shelves already had books and trinkets haphazardly placed on them. The bookshelves in her bedroom at home had contained her absolute favorite books and trinkets, but she didn’t yet fully know how she wanted to organize the library. It seemed obvious to organize the library by genre and then have a favorites section, but she didn’t know how she wanted to order the genres and her favorites. So, instead of worrying about that, Hannah had settled onto the couch to read a book. Maybe Dasco would have some suggestions, and she fully expected him to drop by sometime during the evening. “The door is unlocked!” She called, not looking up from her book. In fact, she got even more comfortable beneath the plush blanket as she flipped the page. “And dinner smells delicious!” featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 3, 2021 15:49:36 GMT -5
Lucas wasn’t wrong about that. Remembering anyone from a past life was difficult for the majority of vampires, and now having an idea of how many barriers he had had in his own mind to block his own memories...well, she probably would still be at the Den right now. Or alone at home. Her eyes clouded over for a moment as she lingered on the thought before she shook her head. “Let’s not dwell on ‘ifs’ like that, alright? I don’t think it would be healthy for either of us.” -------------------- The doors to the library creaked open only to be closed a few seconds later. Dasco glanced towards the couch to see the faint outline of the top of Hannah's head silhouetted by the light of the fireplace. To see her settled in already made him beam with joy as he pulled the cater with their dinner over towards her. He stopped for a moment once he was behind her and bent down to give her a kiss on her cheek. “Welcome home.” Dasco circled around the couch and started placing their plates on the coffee table between them as well as a pair of glasses and silverware. “And thank you for the compliments, dear. I only hope it tastes the same if not better.” He prompted his arm against the table to hold his chin as he looked towards her warmly. “What would you like to drink this evening? I made sure to stock up on all your favorite beverages in the bar here, just in case.” Misty |
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Post by mintedstar/fur on Feb 3, 2021 20:29:55 GMT -5
"Red hair is a ridiculous reason to stalk someone," Tom muttered to himself. Also, honestly, the amount of attention these people were giving him. Then he pointed out to Derrick, "Yeah, well, when I want to protect someone, I also consider something else. Mostly, I consider the fact that there's a handy shoe at the end of my foot and I have a hundred percent right to kick someone out the door." Which they were failing to do. They'd just tied him to a chair, which seemed really impractical. He also would have expected authorities to be called. Hum. Why not? Then Derrick had to go assume Tom was acting. As well. Tom hung his head in frustrated hopelessness. "Frankly," he murmured, "coming up with a story is more entertaining than the truth." If he'd been capable of tossing up his hands, he would have done just that. Instead, he looked over at Aika and then back at Derrick. Then he just shrugged. "Go for it. Questions. But I've told you the only one I have for why I'm here. And I've answered about who I am. I'm sorry that I don't have better ones." He sounded tired already. Why wouldn't he? This wasn't the thrill he'd been looking for. Then almost at once he squirmed just a little. He really shouldn't be thinking of it like that. Even if it was true. Honestly, he was supposed to be having a boring, normal life. He didn't know how else to respond to that other than feeling well and truly like he'd screwed up more of his own plans than the people in these house. Oh, he had sympathy for the fright he'd given them, but he could be gone and never come back (keyword was: could), and they'd move on. He'd fallen off his own personal wagon. Argh. featherleg Auransky |
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Post by Rosestar on Feb 4, 2021 13:54:31 GMT -5
Rosestar She had almost forgotten his original intention of entering the room and speaking to her, considering all that they had talked about and revealed to one another since she had let him in. Aika had only noticed now how much darker the room had become, even with the lamp that sat dimly on the side table that held her small pile of belongings. As Dalton leaned back into her, she nearly fell back out of surprise into the bed they were sitting on as she wasn’t expecting him to continue to hold onto her. She whispered an apology in response to his answer as silence fell on them again, leaving her unsure of what to do or say next as the rain continued to fall outside. The whole mood between them was soft, reassuring, comforting. In truth, Aika felt oddly at peace. A little lighter. A bit more like herself. Would she feel the same way right now if he hadn't knocked on her door? If he had left earlier, satisfied with her answer about the call to his brother? She let those thoughts go as she rested her head on top of his shoulder, giving into the warmth of his presence again. A memory of them tangling together came to mind, a reflection of how they held onto each other now. Aika smiled fondly as she closed her eyes. “Hey, Dalt? Thank you...for everything.” Dalton, who was lost in his own thoughts about the strange but pleasant turn the evening took, blinked suddenly at her words. Softly, he began to chuckle. "I'm sure no thanks is necessary yet, Aika." He didn't even remember most of what she was surely thanking him for. Most of their past relationship, as she explained it, felt right to him. There was a kind of weight lifted off his shoulders that told him that there was truth to it. Still, he would feel more comfortable once he remembered more, and could act without guilt of forgetting her and leaving her alone. "Thank you for telling me," he finally said, even though he was fairly sure he had said it before. |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 4, 2021 15:40:17 GMT -5
For a moment, she wanted to counter his statement, if only to say how much it meant to her that he stayed. That he let her open up to him and be vulnerable and cry without the fear of being rejected. But...maybe that was the point. That he wouldn't reject her. That he would always be there to listen, just like the time she pulled him aside in the office to voice her concerns over him and his health. He had told her not to be nervous about voicing such topics to him then. “If you say so, Dalton.” As quietness returned to them, Aika thought over asking him what he had remembered up until now about their past, but she realized that might be asking for a bit much for the time being. It would be better if he was the one to broach the topic if anything. Her eyes opened as she blinked at his voice breaking her thoughts as he spoke up again. “Thank you for listening. It feels nice to finally be able to talk about it with you.” She let out a softhearted laugh. “I feel like we’re going around in circles here, with you thanking me and me thanking you.” Slowly, she pulled away from him, her hands resting on his shoulders as she faced him. There was a pause as she looked at him, her eyes narrowing for a second as they searched his features. Her gaze wasn’t judgmental nor was it pitiful. It was more in line with the look people had when examining art, or reading over a page in a book several times. Careful, considerate. Whatever she was searching for in that moment she must have found as her gaze became relaxed. “Your glasses are smudged up, again. How do you always manage to do that?” Her hands started to raise up towards his face, however, she caught the action, causing her fingers to coil back. “Oh...ummm...may I?” Rosestar |
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Post by Misty on Feb 4, 2021 18:31:07 GMT -5
“No, I don’t think it would be,” Lucas agreed. Dwelling on the ‘ifs’ would only bring him down and potentially ruin the remainder of his time with Selena. He leaned forward to take one of the cookies she had brought from the Observatory. “You can stay as long as you’d like.” ~~~ “That’s what this is now, isn’t it?” With the decision Hannah made earlier in the afternoon, the Court had become her home, though there were still things she had to tie up before it was her only home. “I can’t wait to get all my books and trinkets on the shelves, but I don’t know which sections I want to be for which genres. It’s a very important decision to make.” “I’m sure it’ll taste wonderful.” Hannah reached for her bookmark on the coffee table and placed it inside before closing the book and setting it aside on the couch. She then threw the blanket over the book and swung her legs over the edge of the couch to sit facing the coffee table. “Did you, now? I haven’t had a chance to see what drinks and snacks you selected.” She had gotten distracted by her books. “A glass of wine would be lovely.” featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 5, 2021 14:15:27 GMT -5
MistySelena handed him one as she set the bag of cookies and pastries between them. “Thanks Lucas. I’ll journal for a bit then. Maybe take a nap.” She took out the journal from her purse that she was writing in earlier as well as a pen. It was wrapped in a dark green cover and seemed well taken care of. From a glance, the pages were filled with sketches and notes, mainly on what appeared to be magic, but there were also recipes and random ideas scattered about. --------------------------- Dasco hummed a soft ‘yes’ to her question. It was clear to see how excited and happy he was about her decision to move in now that she had returned. There was a certain giddiness in his voice that only surfaced when he was talking about one of his passion projects or hobbies. “Well, once you’ve moved everything in, we’ll spend the day planning and organizing each row to perfection.” It would likely take longer than a day to get the library sorted, but as Hannah said, it was important to consider every decision going into the layout and overall aesthetic of the space. He nodded enthusiastically to her as she sat up before he stood up, taking the glasses with him. “Of course.” He strode over to the bar and reached up to where the bottles were kept and poured them both a glass. As Dasco returned, he held out her glass to her from across the coffee table. Once she had taken it, he sat down next to her and draped his free arm across her shoulders. “So, how was your trip?” Even if it was the most mundane errand in the world that caused Hannah to leave, Dasco always wanted to hear about her time outside of the Court.
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Post by Misty on Feb 5, 2021 21:11:45 GMT -5
“If you want to nap, I can get you a blanket. I’ve got a couple extras in my room, and they’re pretty soft too.” Lucas had accumulated quite a few blankets from his friends over the years, and he couldn’t bring himself to get rid of any of them. Instead, he rotated which ones he used. He took this moment to check his phone. Sure enough, his friends had left him dozens of text messages. “Well, it seems like my friends already love you.” ~~~ “It’ll take more than a day to plan and organize everything. The books I brought today were from the bedroom, and I wasn’t able to fit everything into the boxes that I got in my car.” Hannah had packed everything in her room into boxes. The ones she hadn’t gotten into her car were packed, taped, and carefully stacked in her bedroom. “I know I want a favorites section, maybe near one of the walls so it’s a cozy little section.” Hannah took the glass from Dasco and raised it to her lips to take a sip as he moved to sit beside her. “Well,” she started as she set her glass on the coffee table. “I went to the store and got boxes and packing materials before I headed home. I was surprised at how many boxes I got in my car, but I’ll need to make more trips before I have all my books and trinkets here. And that’s just the library. There’s still the craft room and all my costumes that need to be moved here too.” She scooted a tiny bit closer to Dasco before she leaned against him. “When you design the craft room, because I know you’ll want to, I would like to help with designing the room. I went through a lot of organization systems before I found one that I really like.” featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 7, 2021 0:48:36 GMT -5
“That would be wonderful.” For what was a rather intense and emotional day, being able to wind down for the remainder of the day while being in her brother's company was more than she could ask for, but it made her happy to feel welcomed and cared for by him. Selena glanced over at him as he looked over the messages his friends had sent, smirking to herself at the notion of already being adored so quickly. “Really? What have they said so far?” -------------------- “We’ll take the weekend off then to see everything set.” He called while he was still at the bar, pouring their drinks. “That does sound ideal, though you’ll have to designate which corner is the coziest for you.” As Hannah recounted her day trip, Dasco took a sip from his glass, allowing himself to relax in the comfort of her presence. He nodded along gently and placed his glass next to hers prior to her moving closer. Once she had, he rested his head on top of hers only to draw back in laughter as he used his free hand to gently turn her gaze upwards towards him. “You really have caught on to my schemes, haven’t you?” His voice was warm with laughter and amusement as he smiled at her. “Whatever blueprint or layout works for you, my dear. You are the expert in this field after all.” After pressing a kiss to her cheek, he grabbed their plates and handed Hannah hers. “As always, the chef would love to hear your thoughts on tonight's meal.” Misty |
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Post by Misty on Feb 7, 2021 21:47:49 GMT -5
Lucas stood and headed to a door off the living area. “There were a lot of excited comments about being able to meet you, and them figuring out that’s why I asked when they were all free!” He called from the bedroom. He found the blanket he had been looking for and returned to the living room. The blanket was medium gray and looked and felt incredibly soft. Lucas handed it to Selena. “They want to know all about you too.” ~~~ “Even then, a weekend might not be enough time. I have a lot of books, and there’s always a chance we’ll get distracted.” Hannah’s eyes landed on Dasco. They would definitely get distracted multiple times during that weekend. “I do know I want the magic books on the opposite side of the library to try keep work away from pleasure.” She would be visiting that section numerous times during the week. She didn’t want to visit it as well on the weekends. “You aren’t exactly subtle about your schemes, Dear. You get a glint in your eyes, and you love talking about your projects.” Hannah reached for her glass and held it as she continued speaking. “We can design it together. I know room disrupt is one of your passions.” She took another sip from her glass before setting it down so she could take her plate. She set it on the coffee table and picked up her silverware. “Oh, does he now?” She picked up a small bite of food and ate. “Oh my god! You can tell the chef that I think dinner is delicious.” Softer, she added, “Thank you, Dasco.” featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 9, 2021 19:51:45 GMT -5
Selena watched her brother disappear briefly into what she assumed would be his bedroom, returning to the living room seconds later with a gray blanket for her. She reached up and took it with both hands before unfolding it across her lap, admiring its quality and softness as she listened to him, a bashful smile curling onto her lips as she fiddled with the ends of her short hair. “That’s good to hear. Can you tell them I look forward to meeting them?” It was probably a given at this point, but Selena liked to keep formalities up, even if it made her seem out of place at times. -------------------- Dasco couldn’t help but chuckle at her comment on the two becoming distracted while attempting to sort the library out. He lightly shook his head as he grinned at her, a flash of mischief appearing only for a moment in his eyes. “But would you have it any other way, my love?” A moment later and his face returned to its calm and composed demeanor as he nodded in agreement with her. “A wise decision.” It wasn’t surprising to hear Hannah briefly list the changes in his appearance and attitude when it came to his project and schemes that he truly enjoyed. If anything, it just added to the warmth he felt for her. The two hadn’t always been this close, so to hear her speaking of his habits was a point of comfort for him. “Perhaps I should take an acting class then, learn how to hide this ‘glint’ you speak of.” Actually, now that he thought about, maybe taking an acting class wouldn’t be so bad. He was always looking for ways to improve as a speaker. That could certainly help. “It is, but at this point, this is your passion project, Hannah. I’ll merely be here as your assistant.” As she took the plate from him and took a bite from the dish, Dasco’s eyes studied her, waiting to see her reaction. Despite being an excellent chef, he always feared messing up the dishes he created. Those thoughts were dispelled upon hearing her compliments, causing his face to relax into a soft blush as he beamed at her. “Of course, Hannah.” He pulled her in tight for a second as he nuzzled the top of her head, thinking about how wonderful it would be to end everyday like this, with her at his side, both content. Both happy. Misty |
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Post by Misty on Feb 9, 2021 23:02:19 GMT -5
“Of course I will.” Lucas planned on telling his friends nothing but good things about Selena, as well as how excited she was to meet them all. The remainder of their time together was split between comfortable silence and short discussions whenever they had questions. Even in the silence, Selena’s company was pleasant. When it was time for her to leave, Lucas accompanied her to the door. “What time should I meet you for training?” ~~~ Without hesitation, Hannah softly answered, “No, I wouldn’t have it any other way.” If they didn’t get distracted while they were supposed to be doing something together, they wouldn’t be themselves. One of the things Hannah loved the most about her relationship with Dasco was their banter, and it was often the source of their distractions. “I thought so too, though now I’m not sure which books to keep in my office. I won’t use it very much, but I can’t stand the idea of leaving that bookshelf empty.” “Perhaps you should. After all, there are other applications for the skills you would learn.” Hannah winked at Dasco as she laughed softly. “Though I do love it when you discuss your passions and your eyes light up. It’s charming.” She could listen to Dasco for hours whenever he was discussing his latest passion project. The blueprints and inspiration photos he always showed her were stunning. “We can discuss plans for the craft room tomorrow if you’d like.” Hannah paused before swearing. “Well, maybe not tomorrow. I have to meet Elizabeth for the trade, and I’m afraid I’ll be stuck in Embra for much of the day.” Between the trip into the city, the city traffic, and the trade itself, she could very easily be away from Court until late in the afternoon, and that was her being optimistic. “And I’ll have to be on time. I don’t want to upset her.” featherleg |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 11, 2021 15:24:10 GMT -5
“Oh, let me see..” Taking out her phone, she went through her schedule for the upcoming day at the Den. Her eyes narrowed as she saw a note about an item exchange between the Wolves Den and the Golden Orchestra. Anna is going to be standing in for us? I didn’t realize Elizabeth trusted her that much. “If you’re planning on driving there, you can come in around 10 am. If you’d like me to pick you up, I’ll be here around 9:30, but it’s really up to you on what you prefer.” Selena had always preferred showing up to work early, but she needed to prepare a few things at home prior to their training, such as backup salves as well as some elixirs. “Make sure you feed before we start tomorrow. Oh, and bring water and whatever work out clothes you’re most comfortable in. It's going to be a mix of endurance training as well as getting you familiar with aligning your elemental core.” Selena blinked, realizing he might not understand what that exactly meant. "Basically fundamentals in fire bending. And I mean the basics, nothing fancy yet until I'm positive you have everything down to a T." -------------------------- “Oh, are there now?” He asked as he arched a brow at her. “You’ll have to elaborate on those applications later then, my dear, if I am able to schedule and attend a class.” Though it was all in jest, maybe there was a way to fit a class into his ever changing schedule. A soft chuckle escaped his lips as she complimented him. He leaned forward, grabbing his glass and taking a sip as his eyes wandered back to hers as small flames began to dance within them. “Is that so? I wasn’t aware.” Putting his glass back on the table in front of them, he started eating his meal while listening to Hannah, nodding along in agreement that tomorrow would be ideal to start planning out the book arrangements. Upon hearing her swear, he glanced over at her in concern, only to realize that tomorrow was in fact that scheduled date for the artifact exchange with Ms. Volkov. “I nearly forgot that was tomorrow.” He muttered as his brows knitted together in thought. He and Elizabeth had a complicated history of being trade associates, and this trade was being done on the grounds of a truce between the two over a conflict that sparked over his new Court rules, mainly those that welcomed humans into his halls. Shaking his head, he slid his plate onto the table before angling his body towards her. “Hannah, you’ll do just fine. You have my utmost confidence and support.” Dasco had trusted her several times in the past to do similar tasks, both within the city and out of state. Exchanging relics and artifacts for any Court was a sacred task that was traditionally done with the aid of a highly appointed sorcerer or wizard from both parties, and since joining his Court, Hannah had been the one to take over that role. However, Dasco knew that Elizabeth and her wolves were a whole separate pack on their own. The success of the trade was necessary to calm the flames between the two. Gently, he reached out with his left hand to take hers, giving it a soft squeeze of reassurance. “What are your concerns about tomorrow?” Misty |
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Post by Misty on Feb 12, 2021 0:26:25 GMT -5
Lucas didn’t miss Selena’s expression shift as she checked her phone. Was everything okay? “Maybe you should pick me up. I think my car is still at the Den, and I don’t want to go out now.” It was getting late, and it got very cold in Embra after the sun went down - and it would be that way until they were farther into spring. Plus, if Selena picked him up, it would guarantee that Lucas would be on time to his training. “Yeah, about that...” He ran his fingers through his hair as he sighed. “I’m not sure how to do that without getting in trouble.” Not to mention he didn’t have a water bottle to bring along. Maybe he would have to go out tonight anyway. “That sounds awful, honestly.” ~~~ “Remind me to elaborate on those applications while we’re getting ready for bed later tonight.” Hannah winked at Dasco. “If you really want to take classes, I’m sure I can find someone who will give you lessons here. It isn’t fair that you don’t get to pursue your passions.” She placed a hand on his arm as she smiled softly at him. “I do love it when you pursue your passions.” She turned her head to kiss him on the cheek. “And I love that look in your eyes.” “I’m not worried about my ability to handle the exchange.” Hannah had done multiple exchanges before, standing in for Dasco because he could not leave the Court grounds. The exchanges had always gone as planned, save for some of the dirty looks Hannah and her entourage of vampire got because they hadn’t brought a sorcerer or wizard to the meeting. She preferred that her magic borne heritage remain a secret, even among the Court, but if push came to shove... “My concerns about tomorrow?” She placed her hands on her knees and sighed. “I’m worried that Selena will be there. I know I’ve expressed that I want nothing to do with her, and I still don’t, but her presence still upsets me. I hadn’t wanted her to recognize me earlier. The quote she recited that got a reaction out of me? She used to say it all the time, and I hated it. I wasn’t a fan of her, either. She was practically glued to Lucas’ hip, and I just wanted to talk with my sister. Things got worse after he disappeared. She became obsessed with finding him, to the point where she left to try find him. She, obviously, didn’t return to the family.” featherleg |
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Post by Rosestar on Feb 13, 2021 0:16:47 GMT -5
For a moment, she wanted to counter his statement, if only to say how much it meant to her that he stayed. That he let her open up to him and be vulnerable and cry without the fear of being rejected. But...maybe that was the point. That he wouldn't reject her. That he would always be there to listen, just like the time she pulled him aside in the office to voice her concerns over him and his health. He had told her not to be nervous about voicing such topics to him then. “If you say so, Dalton.” As quietness returned to them, Aika thought over asking him what he had remembered up until now about their past, but she realized that might be asking for a bit much for the time being. It would be better if he was the one to broach the topic if anything. Her eyes opened as she blinked at his voice breaking her thoughts as he spoke up again. “Thank you for listening. It feels nice to finally be able to talk about it with you.” She let out a softhearted laugh. “I feel like we’re going around in circles here, with you thanking me and me thanking you.” Slowly, she pulled away from him, her hands resting on his shoulders as she faced him. There was a pause as she looked at him, her eyes narrowing for a second as they searched his features. Her gaze wasn’t judgmental nor was it pitiful. It was more in line with the look people had when examining art, or reading over a page in a book several times. Careful, considerate. Whatever she was searching for in that moment she must have found as her gaze became relaxed. “Your glasses are smudged up, again. How do you always manage to do that?” Her hands started to raise up towards his face, however, she caught the action, causing her fingers to coil back. “Oh...ummm...may I?” Rosestar Dalton had been studying Aika, carefully. It was more of puzzled look at her own gaze. Such a tender thing. He had to stop himself from asking why, because he knew the answer already. He meant a lot to her, and it was a feeling she hadn't been able to share in years. The boundary between them was being chipped away, and of course, she would be awed of so many years staring behind the glass. He hoped one day, he would remember enough to be able to feel a similar way. Of finding something that was lost for so long. The memories he was seeing didn't feel quite like that yet. But already, he was looking at them more fondly.
Then, she was reaching out. Another glasses issue. He smiled warmly and slightly lowered his head towards her lithe fingers, to make it easier for her. "Be my guest."
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Post by featherleg on Feb 13, 2021 2:21:29 GMT -5
RosestarThe warmth of his smile and voice caused her heart to flutter. It was so charming that she couldn’t help but be enamored by it, by him. She had been for some time now, but never thought a moment like this would happen between them. And yet, here they were. Reaching out and holding each other. Allowing the other beyond the walls they had built. Aika knew this was just the start, on both of their parts, of whatever this new path for them was to be. But for now, she was content with sharing this moment with him. Her lips curved into a caring smile as she nodded to him. Her fingers brushed against the side of his face as they gently removed his glasses, bringing them down in front of her as she looked over them fondly. They suited him quite nicely, though as she turned them over to look at the interior of the frames, she noticed the slight bends in the arms from him always fiddling with them. Some things never change, do they? Using the sleeve of her hoodie, Aika carefully cleaned the lenses of his glasses before holding them a small ways above her, making sure she didn’t miss any spots. Seeming satisfied in her work, she turned the glasses around in her grasp and delicately placed them back on his face. Aika’s eyes flickered about his features as she set them before she smiled tenderly at him. And then it hit her. The sudden call of sleep. She didn’t realize how tired she had become, but then again, it had been some time since she had had a heart to heart like this. Her eyes drifted downwards as they struggled to stay open, her hands falling back to Dalton's shoulders as she started to nod off until eventually she was leaning against him. Her breathing slowed, her eyes closed, and within seconds, Aika had accidentally fallen asleep in Daltons embrace.
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Post by featherleg on Feb 13, 2021 18:33:27 GMT -5
Upon Lucas reminding her that they had left his car there, Selena facepalmed and let out a sigh of frustration. “Right, I forgot about that.” They had gotten so wrapped up with getting everything else squared away for him, as well as getting emotional distance from what had occurred at the Court that it had completely slipped her mind. She dropped her hands from her face as Lucas brought up the issue of him feeding, realizing that she had also forgotten to get that line of supply set up for him while they were at the Den. “Do you still have your keys? If anything, I can have a scout drive your car back here with a few shipment crates of supplies for you. All you’d have to do is meet them in the parking lot and store the packs in your freezer.” ---------------- “Duly noted.” He said as he winked back at her. As she spoke, he listened intently, smiling at her the whole time. A soft blush rising in his cheeks as she kissed them, the arm that was draped around her shoulders reaching up to stroke her hair. “That would be most kind of you to do, Hannah. And while it is true that I don’t get to seek everything out, I do get to pursue my greatest passion.” His eyes lit up as he stared intensely at her, the implication of what exactly he was pursuing obvious between the two. As Hannah went over her concerns about the exchange, the flames in his eyes calmed to a simmer. Ever since that day that she had discovered the familial link between her and Selena, Dasco had done his best to bring her comfort as well as his own information and perspective on the two. However, he knew that the scars of their past relationship ran deep for Hannah. He couldn’t help heal them all on his own. “I remember you saying similar sentiments before. About her and the past you two share.” His eyes dropped to look down at her hand as he held it. “I’m sorry things played out the way they did today. I have a tendency to forget how insightful Selena can be. Even if she does grasp at straws from time to time, her intuition usually leads her to what she’s after.” He shook his head as his gaze returned to Hannah's. “Perhaps this is the fool in me speaking, but do you truthfully want nothing to do with the two of them? I know she gets under your skin, and I witnessed that when she recited that quote but…,” Dasco sighed as he frowned to himself, “...what if you could get that opportunity to speak with her? One on one? Remove Lucas, remove myself from the equation. Just long enough for you two to start a conversation.” He wanted the best for both of them, and seeing them at each other's throats from the get go deep down was painful to witness. Sure, he shrugged it off in the moment. Made sly remarks about it. But having the time to consider the whole exchange, it left a sour taste in his mouth. Misty |
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Post by Misty on Feb 13, 2021 23:19:42 GMT -5
“Yeah, I still have my keys.” Lucas took them out of his pocket and placed them on the coffee table. “But that would be greatly appreciated. I can’t afford to get in trouble here.” There was so much that he could lose, so much that he didn’t want to lose. His fresh start didn’t just concern his relationship with Selena. This could be a fresh start for everything, and that included partaking in his worst habits.
~~~
“I would be most glad to do that for you if it is something you truly want.” Hannah’s cheeks turned pink. “It isn’t fair for me to be the only one to pursue my passions... Although it is difficult to top your greatest passion. I hear that she’s lovely and gorgeous and adventurous.” Hannah returned Dasco’s look with a smirk of her own. “And a handful when she wants to be... But she’s also sweet and is so grateful for her greatest passion.”
“I remember that night,” Hannah said softly as she leaned into Dasco. The night she had begged Dasco to keep her identity hidden from Selena. The night she had agreed that Dasco could give Selena the information he had on Lucas. The night she had cried as she decided that she didn’t want anything to do with either Lucas or Selena. “Honestly, I’m not sure what I want to do with them. Ideally, I wouldn’t have wanted to hide my identity from Selena, and we would’ve been excited to see each other earlier today, and we would probably be hanging out together right now.” Hannah reached for her glass of wine and took a long sip.
“But we’re not. The two of us are here, and they’re god knows where, probably bonding over god knows what.” Their sibling bond was as fractured as it had been when they had all lived under the same roof, and her heart ached. She hadn’t expected to feel this way, but seeing Selena and Lucas together reminded her of the time they had spent together when they were younger. All the time she had wished to have a closer relationship with Selena. Now that there was a chance to change that... Did she want to?
“I would need you there if we talked. Hopefully not to referee, but to hold my hand and be a comforting presence and ground me.” That, however, would create another set of issues. Selena would become aware of Hannah and Dasco’s relationship, and Hannah did not picture that conversation lasting much beyond Selena connecting the dots. “But she wouldn’t like us, so it’s not going to happen.”
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Post by featherleg on Feb 16, 2021 17:51:17 GMT -5
Selena nodded as she took his keys and pocketed them. “They’ll be here in about an hour. And don’t worry about the crates, they’ll just look like moving boxes so you can get past any cameras they have set up here.” At least that way, it lowered the likelihood of anyone living in the apartment complex being suspicious of his actions. Still, it felt like Selena was forgetting something at this moment. She tapped at her chin until she looked down at the phone in her hand, realizing what it was. “Would you mind entering your number into my phone before I leave? It will make things a lot easier going forward.” She held her phone out towards him with her contact page already opened. “I’ll text you back and you can send me the photo we took earlier.” ----------------- Dasco stayed quiet as she spoke, his brows still knitted together as he couldn’t help but continue to frown at the whole situation. His gaze would flicker back and forth between hers to drop down to look at their hands. Occasionally squeezing her hand in a supportive manner. “You know I would stand by your side during the whole conversation, unless of course you both agreed that you could do without my presence for a time.” He sighed in slight frustration as he pulled her into a hug, his head resting on top of hers. “We’re going to have to face that obstacle at some point, Hannah. The question now is when. And I would love nothing more than to give you the space to decide that.” As his eyes wandered to the fireplace on his left, he recalled the instance of Hannah discovering that Selena was her long lost sister. It was a difficult week for both of them, trying to figure out how to navigate their relationship with this newfound knowledge. However, he had made a promise to her then. One that he intended to keep for as long as he could. Carefully, he pulled himself away from her and placed his hands on her shoulders, his emerald eyes staring at her with resolve. “Maybe you’re right, and she’ll hate the idea of us. Of what we have. But we won’t know unless we try to speak to her.” His hands gave her shoulders a squeeze as he rested his forehead against hers. “Whatever the outcome is, I will stay true to you.” Misty |
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Post by Auransky on Feb 18, 2021 3:43:09 GMT -5
Derrick slowly nodded listening to the man sitting across from him. The individual seemed frustrated- yea maybe some circles here and there, but at the same time- there was his wife waiting to kill him, and her friend also wanting to kill him. He probably also wanted to beat this guy in some alley, because well-it was hurting him to watch his wife being hurt. "I only have one more question." He took in a deep breath, with his gaze deepened in ponder at this individual. "Are you affiliated with anything or anyone in particular?" he could feel the tension against his back, Tom spoke with his gut, and right now that gut was annoyed... "If we take your word to this point, this is the one question that will gamble the next outcome; for this reason I advise you speak clearly from the heart." He fell silent, his gaze locked onto the newcomer. It certainly felt like those days- the decision that pended one's life, that decided the next course of action. On the other hand, if what this newcomer says is truth, then for the time being-they must accept it as truth as the story had been repeated many times to this point. Rowlin refused to meet anyone's gaze directly. It wasn't that he wanted the answers either-but it seemed like the three were deeply locked into opening Tom. It felt nostalgic-a terrible time to recall the past; A war room, an interrogation, or an execution. Unfortunately-this time wasn't that time, and laws; civic, human, and those non-existing and they could get into a load of trouble. Silently he stood up, following Derrick's question, his gaze scanning Tom-who clearly was just done with all this-he sounded like a student who was fed up with the world picking on them, especially during the middle school years. He took one step forwarded towards Tom, and took in a shallow breath, "I get it... this feels annoying." He softly began. "And that's just it.. perhaps to you, this appears like childsplay, but to them-to us, this is a moment in our lives that your intrusion is a pivot of fear; fear for the safety of the young ones, and fear for our loved ones. What you may consider no big deal, is a bigger deal to us, because this is a place we consider safe, and your presence here is what exactly drove this moment." He briefly took in a deeper breath, turning his head towards Celestia, with one hand resting against his forehead, his eyes a darker shade of green, and flickering-an effect from the thin contacts he was wearing to prevent his eyes from shifting to scarlet red out in the open. "Another thing to keep in mind, is experience. This isn't a lecture, because you clearly have experience, you've lived your life to this point one way, but to each and everyone of us, we've lived our lives a different way. Our reaction to this is a result of our experience, and as much as you probably want to tell us, 'move on', that's just it-we can't... it's a part of our life, engrained into our life. Hence-perspective." "Now, I'm not asking for you to change your views, but to try and understand where this is coming from. So... I only ask, you answer this man's question truthfully, to be on your way. While the events of tonight cannot be rewritten, we can at least create some brief closure on this misunderstanding..." He trailed off falling into silence, taking a step back. While he wasn't happy with this outcome, he didn't want to let it drag on much longer-before the three skyrocketed into overdrive. Tom too was being honest, like a rebel without a cause-so it triggered a bit of the old days, with a mix of talking to students in a 1:1 setting. But did I just step out of line?Derick had fallen silent, listening to Rowlin-watching the boy stand to address the unwelcome guess. It felt for a moment like some old times-but also different...it wasn't bad-just unexpected, given how long it had been since the once advisor stood up to speak his mind. He couldn't help but look over at Celestia for a queue, idea, or follow-up, moreso a 'well, what now?' featherleg mintedstar/fur |
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Post by featherleg on Feb 18, 2021 16:29:14 GMT -5
Aikas eyes glanced back at Derrick as he asked his final question before they darted back to Tom. They all needed to know the answer at that moment. Celestia and Derrick for the safety of their children and family, of the life they had built together. For Rowlins freedom. His pursuits. To see him further restrained in this world would leave the rest of them guilty in their own perspectives. And then there was her own life to consider. The likelihood of this individual seeking her out and possibly coming into contact with Naomi. With James. With Dalton. She couldn’t put their lives at risk because of one foolish error. At this point, it didn’t matter whose fault it was. The outcome, as Derrick had stated, far outweighed it for every player in the room. Seeing Rowlin rise and speak up gained the attention of Aika and Celestia both. At the mention of the fear of their loved ones due to the events that had transpired, Aika nodded in agreement while Celestia looked back towards her husband as she lightly sighed. The expression she held was a guarded one, but Derrick had seen it often enough to know how scared she was. They had both made sacrifices to pursue each other and create the family they had now, and she wanted nothing more than to be able to spend this night in particular with them all. Instead, they were here being thrown back into their old roles, the ones they all desperately wanted to lay to rest. Feeling Rowlins gaze on her, she met it with a look of understanding, of acceptance that what he said rang true to her. However, seeing that brief second of his eyes changing in color gave her even more reason to see this discussion finished. She made a promise to him to assist him, and having Tom here would only further complicate the matter. Celestia held her chin in thought as she continued to listen to him. Perhaps Rowlin was right, and attempting to change this man's perspective was beyond them for the time being. If they were able to come to a truce of some sort, an agreement, then that could afford them the space and security that they were fighting to maintain. Her eyes closed as she thought over his points, as well as Derrick and Aikas. She knew whatever discussion she made, Aika would follow her. It was just the way the two of them worked, and she would likely do the same if the situation was in her home court. Opening her eyes, she met Derrick's questioning gaze. Just like before, he wasn’t going to make a decision until she had stated her final peace on the circumstance. Her head turned towards Tom as she breathed in deeply before addressing him. “I will compromise to hear your answer. Only in hopes that it is truthful, and that we can come to an arrangement that both parties can agree upon.” With a flick of her hand, the silverish blue binds that bound Tom to the chair disappeared. “Know however that the man that sits in front of you, as well as the rest of us, will not let you leave until we hear your answer and act upon it.” mintedstar/fur Auransky |
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