Zexion had taken the time to acquire clothing more fitting to the World he found himself in; hose, long tunic with a padded doublet over that, along with knee-high boots that had a slight heel. Tucking a strand of his unusually coloured hair behind his ear, he gave up the idea of concealing it as a lost cause. Besides, some of the inhabitants he had encountered were not the most normal looking humans, so he figured that by now he didn’t stand out all that much. So now armed with appropriate attire, he tucked his lexicon beneath his arm and made his way towards the castle with the intention of making use of the library he had heard was there.
After speaking the guard, only just barely making use of his powers of illusion, he passed the inspection with no problem, since Zexion didn’t use a weapon that would be commonly recognized as such. He easily passed as a scholar, both looking and acting the part and was quickly given a pass that identified him as a visiting scholar, giving him access to the library in the castle. A nod of his head and then he was walking down the pathway to the impressive building in front of him. Like the surrounding buildings, it was equipped with glass windows, unlike many of the buildings he had initially passed when first making his way through what he later learned was the capitol city of Camar’a.
Adjusting the pack that not only held his uniform coat, but also a number of other supplies, he paused to study the castle. It wasn’t terribly unlike the other castles he had visited during his life, both as the Somebody known as Ienzo and later after he lost his heart and become Zexion. Soaring pinnacles and minarets, decorative stained glass windows interspersed with smaller, more easily defended windows. Of course, the main doors were immense and impressive, but just as obviously, he knew there would be small doors scattered throughout the grounds for the use of servants and those who inhabited the building. After all, it would be utterly ridiculous for a servant with a load of fresh food for the evening meal to have to struggle their way through the main doors.
Murmuring a few words to the guards standing by the doors, he flashed the pass he had been given. “Thank you,” he said smoothly, giving a short nod of his head as they opened the doors enough to admit him. The hallway he entered was mostly silent, just the echoes of other people moving around filtering down to where the slate haired nobody stood, the afternoon sunlight cascading down in a prismatic myriad of colours through the windows high above the doors. A small sigh of relief escaped his lips, his hands absently brushing off the dust he had acquired on his walk here before silently walking in what he hoped was the correct direction of the library rumoured to hold centuries’ worth of books and scrolls.
Joscelin sat across from Raunien who was glaring whole-heartedly at his eldest sibling. “Why do I have to learn this? You’re going to take the throne just like the Elven council wants, you do have Elven blood after all.”
There was an open text between the two, it was one of the texts telling of the names of Nobility, who was what class, and the name of each Lord, Duke, and Count in the land. Categorised under race foremost.
“Because you are still a prince Raunien. Come on Rau, you need to know this. I won’t always be down in Camar’a, Jay is prince of the north country. I will be up there too beside him, on his throne. Kallion-,” interrupted by a waving hand of a impatient teenager.
“Yah, Kallion won’t have anything to do with politics so that sticks me as the next heir.”
Joscelin sighed heavily, “Don’t act like this before Ada, he thinks the throne enough of a burden without you adding to his emotional stress.”
This seemed to insult the younger and he pushed back his chair standing, his hands planted on the table with spread fingers leaning in toward his older Elven brother. “I would never cause Ada more grief on purpose!”
The older prince put up his pale long fingered hands in his own defense. “Alright, alright, calm down Raunien. I know, none of us wish to cause Ada grief but you must learn this. Please? You can go train with Lionus after this.”
At the mention of the Lional Monk the younger brother sat down again, “Fine. Let’s get this over with.”
Joscelin’s lips twitched, his fingers messing up shaggy dirty blond hair, “Thank you.” Joscelins lavender eyes twinkled, his own silver hair in a high ponytail behind him. He wore his normal purple doublet and trousers. Raunien had a white shirt with no sleeves and black puffer pants usually worn by Monks, along with the slippers of one. His arm muscles were fairly well developed from his hand-to-hand training.
Hearing the distant sound of muffled voices, Zexion followed them until he reached a set of heavy oaken doors. His nose informed him that the dust associated with books was heavy in the room he stood before, almost enough to make him sneeze if he were not careful. Quietly opening the door, he slipped inside, eyes darting to the two younger men speaking together at one of the tables. He was momentarily distracted from his mission by the mention of ‘thrones’ and ‘grief’ and ‘training.’ A brief nod was given in their general direction, Zexion hoping he hadn’t disrupted their rather intriguing conversation. He couldn’t help his insatiable curiosity, and therefor kept one ear tuned to the conversation while he made his way over to one side of the large room.
Pulling a book down at random, he began skimming the contents, immeasurably grateful for the spell that allowed him to automatically decipher any piece of writing he read, so long as he had his lexicon with him. Soon enough, he had gathered a pile of books and scrolls he had determined to be useful. Once again brushing his bangs out of his face, he turned around to see if perhaps the young men had left, leaving him to peacefully record the information he wanted within the pages of his lexicon.
Pointing to a name Joscelin pointed to the paper and quill beside Raunien and Raunien muttered before he spoke the name aloud and wrote it down along with the title of the noble, race, city and holding of that noble. Joscelin sat back relaxing a little listening to Raunien, correcting him when he needed it though this was not often. Raunien did hate learning this but he was a quick study. Looking to the scholar who seemed to be amounting quite the stack of books he ****ed a brow, especially at the shade of blue hair that was very different. Though he could say nothing on that; he had silver hair.
“Josc, have you ever been to Lord Torak’s holdings in the north? The Skarn Lord that had helped Ada back to his throne?”
Joscelin’s attention back on his brother he shook his head, “No I haven’t, though I have meet Torak’s son once, a good man. Loyal as all the Skarn are to Ada.”
The boy was beginning to bounce in his chair, Joscelin put his finger to the page. “Finish this page then you can go train with Lionus and get rid of some of that pent up energy of yours.”
Grinning at his older brother, Raunien did not have the feminine angular, elven beauty of his brother. He had a more solid human face, though it was still attractive as his father was an attractive man. But his Ada and brothers were beautiful, and he would never be like them. The younger half elves and elves made fun of him for that, along with his bulky less graceful frame.
A glance over his shoulder revealed to Zexion who was being addressed; apparently the silver haired male was this Josc, although he had a feeling that wasn’t his full name. Shrugging to himself slightly, he added a couple of tomes on the history of the races of this World for good measure. After all, it never hurt to know as much about the people one was temporarily living amongst. Forewarned is forearmed, as they say.
Finally deciding that his pile was large enough, he turned to find a spot to begin his true work. Actually, if he were to be completely honest, it was likely to be a bit of a strain to carry any real distance. Steadying his pack, he balanced the small tower of books as he headed for the nearest empty table. Thankfully, nothing escaped before he was able to set it all down, sliding into the chair and letting his pack settle on the floor beside him. Taking his lexicon from the pile, he opened it and grabbed the top book, opening that as well. As he read, words appeared in the lexicon, rapidly filling the pages, one after another with both what Zexion read, as well as his personal thoughts and interpretations of the text.
Raunien whipped through the last of the page at great speeds, Joscelin chuckling deeply as his brother finished and glared at him. Though Joscelin was still peering at the stranger who was certainly a scholar. There was…melancholy in Joscelin’s eyes a moment before his brother kicked him under the table. A soft grunt and Joscelin glared back, “Brat.”
“Lle ohtar ho vanima?" (You think him beautiful?)
Raunien swerved a little to look at Zexion to a moment and he shrugged as if he did not know why his brother would.
"Toror, ho Aa'sinta Eldalie!" (Brother, he may speak Elvish!)
Raunien laughed, "Why do you like men Joscelin?"
Joscelin ****ed a brow at his brother but he shrugged, "Why do you like girls? Beyond...their breasts."
The boy blushed deeply glaring heatedly but he mumbled, "That's not the only reason."
"Good it better not be."
Raunien hmmphed, "I feel..like they need me. That I can protect a girl."
Joscelin smiled softly, "That's a good reason, but what if you find a woman like… Princess Mallie? She doesn't protection from any man. Will you respect her for being a warrior?"
Raunien licked his lips, "Yah I guess so."
Joscelin shrugged, "I have always been attracted to men, last life and this life. It is a sense of equality for me. Now go on, you need to train."
Raunien grinned again and stood,"Aa'Amin kwentra ho?" (May I tell him?)
Joscelin frowned his brows deeply forward, "Do and perish upon my blade Raunien."
The teenager laughed deeply,"No, I'd rather not. See you at dinner!" Turning he ran weaving around chairs, though he did manage to knock one down as he ran out of the library.
Zexion glanced up when he heard the change in language, an eyebrow arching. Unfortunately, while he was able to read foreign languages, that ability did not immediately translate to being able to speak said language. Granted, it did allow him to learn them at a lightning speed pace, taking only a few days rather than weeks or months, but he was still left not knowing what the two males were discussing. Shrugging it off, he once more bent his head over the text he was reading. A small smirk formed on his lips at the discussion once it returned to a language he could understand, although it was only just barely visible thanks to his bangs hanging over half of his face.
He had just been settling back into the text when the chair crashed to the floor, causing him to jump in place. Eyes wide with startlement, he looked up to see the cause, finally tracking the hasty exit of one of the males, obviously the younger of the two judging by action and the fact that the other had clearly been tutoring him. Feeling the twitchy sensation that came with being watched, he turned his gaze back to find the beautifully delicate male studying him silently. Strange as it was, he had to admit, to himself at least, that the other was most certainly attractive physically, if nothing else.
A soft chuckle again left him as he watched Raunien leave in such a hurry. Eyes laid back on Zexion and he flinched a little when the other male jumped so. He stood then, closing the book and it laid under his left arms he walked. "I do apologise for my brother, he's young and far more energetic, he's never been one for book learning. He's intelligent but he'd rather it be taught at the point of a sword then by a quill. But who am I to complain, we need warriors as much as we scholars."
He gave a soft smile to Zexion, "I am Prince Joscelin Quele Royale Ante," he gave a sweeping bow to the other, graceful and easy. A well practised move. Still softly approaching the table, his booted feet hardly made any sound, almost as if he did not quite walk upon the ground yet how could he not.
"You… seem almost starved. Starved for knowledge, I have only seen Scholars from remote villages pick so many books at once to read."
His attention now fully on the other male, Zexion felt his lips twitch slightly in amusement at the other’s description of his brother. “Well, the young do have a penchant for being impulsive. I just can’t say I was expecting him to nearly take a chair with him in his hurry to be off,” he replied, an eyebrow still quirked a little.
Standing as well, he bowed smoothly in greeting, the reaction purely instinctive from years as Ansem the Wise’s apprentice. “It is a pleasure to meet you Prince Joscelin. I am Zexion Nishimura.” Glancing down at his pile of book before returning his gaze to Joscelin, his smirk briefly morphed into a somewhat softer smile. “Yes, I suppose you might say that,” he acquiesed. “Knowledge is like air, like food for one such as me. It is what sustains and motivates me.” His smirk reappearing, he sat back down and smoothed is fingers over the pages of the book he had been previously devouring. “Besides, I am not reading them all at once, as you say. I shall read them one at a time. It just happens that I am a very fast reader.”
“Hmm yes, he’d much rather be out in the Training grounds with Lionus then in here, though frankly I can’t blame him. Tutoring someone on all the lines of nobility is the most boring and tedious work I’ve come across.” Even Wil’Helm found it staggering the amount of Nobles in Camar’a, having to know each of their names, stations, and holdings. It took quite sometime to be able to rattle them off from memory when you needed to.
A dip of his head in acknowledgement of the bow, “Pleasure to meet you then.” The words came easily, though they did not appear to be fake, well rehearsed perhaps because of politics and diplomacy but he tried to respect each man and woman that crossed his path. His own smile widened to fully take his lips, and leave a soft twinkle in his eyes.
“Mmm, the words of a scholar indeed. I had someone once who was a Scholar, close to myself. ‘All knowledge is worth having, regardless of the pain’. It’s a motto my family has taken and held fast to since. It’s only with knowledge that we can try to still strive into the light from the last of the dark years. Ada and myself have impossible dreams, or so it is said by the Council. We would like even if it is not in our lifetime, but someday that all men, all women. Peasant, noble, Elve, human, Skarn. It matters not, what station or race can know how to read. It’s such a simple thing to those that do know how but it’s something so many find mysterious, magical almost because they know not how.”
Stepping closer to the table his head ****ed a little, “I do not mean to intrude upon your studies, but if you would require any specific help in an area I can offer my assistance, I know six languages and am trying to master the Ancient Fae language but I have been too busy with politics to be able to study lately.” And he sounded chagrined about this.
“And I personally know at least one person of each race in Camar’a as well.” A wink.
-- Edited by Zexion on Friday 24th of April 2009 06:27:53 PM
__________________
Together we shall walk the dusty paths until we reach our ends.
“Yes, that motto cleaves quite close to my own beliefs. The pursuit of knowledge is what has made me what I am,” Zexion brushed his bangs back from his face, only to have them fall forward almost immediately. He wondered if Joscelin would ever suspect just how much pain knowledge could bring, what changes had been wrought upon himself by his chosen path. “That is a worthy dream to have. I’ve seen far too many kingdoms where illiteracy runs rampant among the general populace. It is not any harder to cultivate a literate people than it is to feed them religious or political doctrine.”
He was far from oblivious to the elfin man’s flirtations and found himself both intrigued an amused. It had been quite some time since he had last indulged himself, especially while on a mission. The Superior did not give me a deadline for this expedition. He said only that I may take as long as I needed to acquire the necessary information and reports about Heartless activity. Steepling his fingers, he leaned forward to rest his chin on them, silken strands of hair concealing the right half of his face. “Then I just may have to call upon your offer,” his eyebrow rose and his smirk remained firmly in place. “It’s most convenient that you have such personal contacts. A meeting and exchange just may have to be arranged.”
“It is far easier to feed the people political and religious doctrine they don’t understand than to give them understanding through knowledge.”
With Zexion set his chin upon fingers webbed and leaned a little forward Joscelin pulled the chair near to Zexion at the table out and sat down. It was close but not so he would be in personal space or affecting the others ability to study if he so wished. Inwardly Joscelin was berating himself over this. Two weeks, he had two weeks of freedom left, and yet he knew he could not even cultivate those two weeks at all. By that damn marriage contract he was to be a virgin his wedding night in every sense of the word. Though he knew it, he knew Jay had already gone against the contract and was hardly one himself.
But there was nothing to be done about that, Joscelin would not witness his country torn apart again by war with Dire Cry. One lifetime was enough of leading war against the desert country, not again. Not when there had finally been peace for eighteen years. But flirting was not something he could get in trouble for until he married, but anything past kissing another male and he knew if his fiancé found out there would be hell to pay indeed. And didn’t that disgust him, the thought that he, a trained Elven warrior of two lifetimes was letting himself be beaten and abused by a filthy vampire.
The only show of inward thoughts was his hand under the table having tightened into a fist. A soft chuckle as he fell back into his former self easily, forgetting about his impending marriage and everything associated with it. His only way of dealing.
“I’d be happy to have you meet some of my contacts Zexion and-,” his other hand not clenched so, reached across running long pale fingers with trimmed nails over the covers of one of the books. A book about the Spirits (Gods).
“As you would know, my Birth Father is an Avatar of Sjel’ Nnharma, Spirit of Souls and the Afterlife, and the Arch Angel Grapheal fell from grace and died to save my Ada from death. If there is someone to talk to about religion I’d imagine it would be him. And though he is a King, he does always try to set time aside if someone wishes a personal meeting with him.”
“Mmm,” Zexion hummed softly. “This is very true. Many find it much easier to spoon-feed their people the information they want them to know and believe, rather than allowing them the opportunity to learn and make their own conclusions. A literate population can be a dangerously powerful thing, bringing about great good or great evil.” Yet again, he was reminded of the mistakes made by himself and his fellow apprentices back in Radiant Garden. They had been so sure of themselves, so certain that they were doing the right thing, that they were following the right path to a solution of how to combat the Darkness.
Somewhat lost in his own thoughts of the past, he did not immediately notice the distant gaze Joscelin had developed until the other man spoke. He did, however, make careful note of the delicate fingers so carefully manicured and as pale as moonlight. While he himself was quite pale, he most certainly did not have the ethereal grace and carriage of the prince. “That’s quite the pedigree, I must admit. It appears that your deities are far more involved than I had expected,” he replied at last, his expression one of carefully neutral curiosity. After all, it wouldn’t be appropriate to appear too interested this early on in the game.
Unclasping his hands, he reached out and caught the hand absently running along the spines of books he had piled next to him. Gently, he brushed his thumb over the smooth skin, his eyes remaining an unreadable dark blue. “If I decide that I would like to discuss such weighty topics as religion and theology, I shall certainly let you know. Until then, I think I shall remain under the notice of others, in as much as I can,” he said quietly. He still hadn’t acquired lodging, but with the heavy purse of money in his possession, he knew that wouldn’t be a problem when the time came.
“Ignorance, many rulers believe, makes a docile populace," and from his words he thought that quite the pile of bull****. He knew better, having already been King and having ruled since his mother’s death last life when he was only twenty five and had had no prior lives. He had been so young and unsure of himself then, but the second time around and one hundred and sixty three years old, he was far better prepared to do what he had to, and knew what he had to do.
“My Ada speaks the same thing, that the possibility is there that we give this knowledge to the people and they wish to rule themselves. I am not a Royal who is scared by this, it would make more sense that the common rule the common. I try to know what they suffer but I never well really know.” So said Wil’helm, a farmer’s son who had had a quick mind and a wish to learn. The only difference, he had been given the opportunity to do so unlike so many.
A shake of his head with a soft chuckle at Zexion’s words of his Ada, “They have been greatly involved the last thirty or so years.”
Joscelin went quiet when his hand was taken up by Zexion and his thumb run over his skin, the softest, faintest blush appears to his cheeks though he is trying valiantly to hold it back entirely. It was a move many a suitor had made in his adolescence but he still was hardly used to it, being the center of attention politically he could handle. Even as a warrior surrounded at all sides, but he was still flustered when someone’s sole attention was on him in the manner of flirting or any such. And to his lasting chagrin it made him appear far younger then he was because of it, far younger and inexperienced.
Which he certainly was not. His soft lavenders stayed on Zexion starring into darker blue eyes. “Of course.”
There is a deep cough from behind them and Joscelin turned, tensing though his hand he does not move away from Zexion’s hold. Kallion is leaning against a shelf of books, his arms are crossed before his chest in his silver robes, his white thick hair behind his back. His brow is ****ed highly up toward the roof, a look of disapproving on his features. His large white wings are tucked into his back, two Elven sabres are at his waist through a sash of lavender. Standing straighter the male who by all rights appeared younger then Joscelin, but had a countenance that spoke of far older kept that brow ****ed.
“Toror, Lle Utinu en Loki rim.” (Brother, you son of snakes. (A Elven insult to a dishonest liar)
Joscelin stiffened further at the words, “Lle ron n'rangwa.” (You would not understand.)
“Perhaps not, perhaps with my vows I am ruled by my mind alone.” Kallion dropped a flourishing bow, “Excuse my interruptions brother. I was asked to tell you there is a political meeting this afternoon at three.”
Joscelin nodded to his brother, “Of course. I’ll be there.”
“Docile, perhaps… but the opportunity for great discoveries or brilliant works of art are thereby lost to that forced ignorance.” Zexion gave a small sigh, thinking of all the advances in science, technology and medicine that had been lost due to ignorance that could have saved lives or at the very least, improved the lives of hundreds if not thousands of citizens. He had noticed almost immediately upon arriving that this World was way behind from a technological and scientific standpoint. It was almost sad, considering the amount of ambient magic he could smell all over the place.
The corner of his mouth twitched at Joscelin’s slight blush, threatening to turn into a fully amused smirk at the reaction he was getting. Anything he might have said died before it could even form when they found themselves rather abruptly interrupted. He was silent through their exchange, the tension readily palpable. Deciding to take a chance, Zexion turned the hand he held over and began to very gently massage Joscelin’s palm and finger pads. “Don’t let me keep you from being where you need to be. I am more than capable of finding what I need within the volumes held here,” he said quietly, his face for once open with total honesty and truth.
Joscelin looked back to Zexion trying not to turn completely so his back was to his brother, he knew he would add more insult if he did and he had no time to rectify a brotherly argument. Not if there was a political meeting that both of them had to be present for; that meant it must be the centaurs once again in the mountains trying to antagonise the Skarn Lords who hated the Centaurs just as much as the Centaurs hated the Skarn. A tense situation.
The massaging was very unexpected and Joscelin nodded to Zexion, able to cover any of what he felt thankfully. As he had certainly not expected to be flirted with just as intense or more so then he had to the other male. It was a change from the other times before.
“Alright then, I should go speak with Ada before the meeting then.”
Reluctant to leave, Joscelin looked back to Kallion, “I’ll meet you at Ada’s chambers.”
The other Prince nodded stiffly and bowed, his arms crossed before his chest, a straight bow of his body before he moved out into the hall and away.
“I hope we get to speak at least once more.”
Joscelin’s entire attention back on Zexion, he turned to him. No, Kallion would never understand what it was like to have had at one time someone always to welcome you to bed at night with open arms. To always be there to speak to, and then suddenly to lose that. To not have that and know you never would. Kallion did not understand and he would not ever if he followed the path he had set for himself. He did not need to justify himself to a celebrate pompous virgin.
Taking a chance he leaned to kiss cheek softly, a light press of moist lips to Zexion’s skin of the cheek visible, the other covered by blue hair.
“I’m sure we will; I do not doubt that it will take me at least a couple weeks to gather all of the information that I am interested in. In that time, I see no reason we should not see each other at least a few times,” a small smile on his face, Zexion was surprised that a part of him genuinely looked forward to seeing Joscelin again. At least, as much as a being lacking a heart could look forward to such a thing. But he certainly remembered what it would have felt like, had he still been Ienzo and not the Nobody Zexion.
He wasn’t sure what he had been expecting to come of their flirtations, but somehow, the chastely gentle kiss on his cheek wasn’t it. What he was certain of, was that there was a healthy flush of colour dusting across his cheeks and nose, a large portion of it thankfully concealed by his hair. Normally, he would have done all within his power to hide such a reaction, but he had been so utterly caught off guard and disarmed by the charming young man that he had reacted just as if he was Ienzo still. Lifting the hand he held to his lips, he pressed his own lips to first Joscelin’s palm, and then to each fingertip before turning it over and kissing the back just as a courtier would. “Perhaps we can arrange a rendezvous for lunch or dinner some time while I am here,” he suggested, looking up through dark, thick eyelashes at his companion.
“Yes, a few times in the coming weeks.”
At the next two. He wanted to revel in his freedom in these last two weeks, though hopefully he would not hurt this young man. His happiness was not worth another’s pain, that was a lesson well taught by his Ada and one he stuck to. He would live his life the best he could in service of his country. Give up everything he had to, to see peace. His second life would be worse then his first, but that was what was desired of him then so be it. Allow me these weeks Spirits, allow this respite. Then I shall marry Jay, I shall suffer in silence and do whatever else you ask of me.
The flushing color dusting cheeks was very welcome, a match to his earlier display, leaving him feeling not so disgraced for allowing such to show before the other. The kisses pressed to the back of his hand, then the kisses to his fingertips. The barest intake of breath through his teeth as Joscelin watched Zexion, the kiss to his palm sealing it. The prince was royally and truly smitten with the scholar sitting there. He had no idea what Zexion was, that he was not even from his world. The young Elven Prince was smitten. His own cheeks dusted red once again, unable to hold that back either.
“Perhaps we can,” Joscelin murmured very softly his lips in a soft smile.
“Tomorrow Eve?” he asked and though he wished to remain he forced himself to stand, breaking a very thick spell around himself of the others presence.
A pleased smile spread across Zexion’s face as he nodded. “Certainly. Shall we meet here then? I am afraid I’m not terribly familiar with this place as of yet.” As far as he was concerned, this mission was already proving to be successful, and the possibility of such an attractive distraction was very appealing. Definitely well worth his effort and he was certain he would be able to gather the information Xemnas wanted while indulging himself just a little.
He stood as well, not missing the rise of healthy colour to Joscelin’s cheeks. Moving close to the other male, he stretched up once he was near and pressed his lips against Joscelin’s in a chastely gentle kiss. “I will see you tomorrow eve then,” he said with a quick wink as he sank back down. “You’d best hurry; your brother does not seem the sort to appreciate being made to wait.”
"Ai, we shall meet here and decide where to go for dinner together."
Joscelin standing had tried to distance himself for a moment to regain his bearings so he could do as he had to, to go meet with his Ada and his brother before this meeting. Knowing exactly what this meeting was going to be upon and discussing was a deep help so he did not say anything he should not.
Zexion standing and stepping closer, Joscelin’s eyes stayed upon him of soft affectionate lavender, and the other reaching up to press a chaste kiss to his lips, his eyes closed. Relishing in the moment, and memories. He had missed being close to someone, and in instances like this, family did not count. A soft blush still lingered and his eyes opened to Zexion sitting back down.
"Ai, tomorrow eve then Zexion."
Giving a curt nod he spun on his slightly heeled leather boots leaving the library toward his Ada's chambers.
__________________
Together we shall walk the dusty paths until we reach our ends.
There had been word spreading the next day that the Mountain Lords, all of which were Skarn, were to strengthen their defenses. There were whispered words from scholars, servants and nobles alike of impending war with the Centaurs, a rebellious cluster of tribes through out the northern and western mountains that were heathens. They did not believe the Gods created them, they worshiped ancestral spirits, they believed there was a spirit in every living and non living thing. Reclusive and independent the Centaurs never agreed to being ruled over by two legged. Constant fighting between the Skarn and Centaurs rooted deep hatred between the two races and little mercy was found in them for the other.
Joscelin was deeply tired already, he had spent the day in Lord Torok's holdings sitting at a meeting of the Skarn Lords defending the position of his Ada who had declared that the Skarn would defend themselves but not begin a needless bloodshed. The Skarn of course were angered by this but were all men of deep honor and justice and invoking Meiva, Lady of Justice's name to the council earned the response he had expected. An unanimous,"Long live the King!"
So he was back with the knowledge that the Skarn would do as they were told and not begin a war, but deeply exhausted for the effort. Changing into less formal clothes, he left his vambraces behind, his only form of defense as he was not one to wear armor in his room. His hair was down around his shoulders, he was wearing a silver and light blue doublet over a black shirt. His tights were white laced sliver, his heeled white boots leather. Less formal to him but he still had to keep up appearances. His Elven sabers at his waist in sheaths.
Stepping into the library his eyes looked for that blue hair.
After Joscelin had left, Zexion had spent the remainder of the afternoon and most of the evening in the library, transferring the contents of the books he had piled next to his elbow, as well as a few additional volumes before calling it a night. He had been immensely thankful that he had been able to find a good, reputable inn near the castle, the place coming highly recommended by the front guards when he had asked about nearby lodgings. After a good night’s rest on a surprisingly comfortable bed, he had made his way back to the library a few hours after sunrise, carrying a small wrapped package of meat-stuffed rolls that he had requested from the inn’s cook.
The entirety of the day had been spent in the library going through books on religion, history and what little science existed in Camar’a. While he was by no means close to finishing, Zexion felt that the day had been well spent, and he felt much more versed in the culture of the kingdom he found himself residing in. As the hours slid away into late afternoon, an unnoticed smile curved upon his lips as he thought about his pending rendezvous with Joscelin. The younger man was quite attractive, he had to admit, possessing long silver hair that in the filtered sunlight of the library shown brightly, eyes an unusual soft lavender, and delicate almost androgynous features that spoke strongly of elven heritage. The natural grace with which he moved and the highly educated manner of speech were very welcome changes from some of the other Organization members he generally had to deal with.
Lifting his head, he smelt Joscelin long before the young male entered the library, his movements nearly inaudible. That same small smile still on his face, Zexion started to close his books, more than ready to take a break. “Good evening Prince Joscelin,” he said in greeting, “I trust your meetings went well?”
Joscelin's fingers were lightly curling in and out as he walked further into the library. They were stiff from the writing he had done earlier, being the trusted one of his Ada to write down word for word the proceedings of both meetings. It required a quick steady hand and a good, quick memory.
Bowing his head even as he gave an easy appearing smile, "Good evening Zexion Nishimura," the smile was soft, a little teasing as he said the others full name with the bow of his head.
"Ai, as well as can be expected for such instances and circumstances. Though thankfully Camar'a is not yet at war, and hopefully won’t be. None the less though, I've had enough of politics today if you do not mind Vanima." (Beautiful.)
Joscelin, finally at the tableside, put forth his long fingered pale hand to Zexion. "Where would you like to eat? And to help that decision, what would you like to eat? I do not myself eat meat, some Elven lines are unable to do so though others can. I am unable as it makes me ill. Though this is not to say those near me can not, I just myself can not. We could go into the city, there are smaller eating houses (restaurants) there, much less crowded and more private then a Tavern if that is what you would like?"
Time to just ourselves.
“Understandable,” Zexion replied, standing and tucking his lexicon beneath his arm while accepting Joscelin’s hand with the opposite. “And as for food, I’m willing to try something new. I eat meat, but really don’t care one way or the other if it’s part of my meal or not.” He shrugged, and then carefully slid his hand along Joscelin’s arm until it rested in the crook of the others arm. “I do, however, prefer a more quiet and private atmosphere.”
After a moment’s consideration, he decided to take a chance and released his lexicon, allowing it to hover in front of him for a brief moment before dismissing it with a flash of shattered light and darkness. “There, that saves us having to stop by the inn I’m staying at to drop it off. Now, if you will lead the way to an appropriate establishment, I will gladly accompany you there,” he said, his smile morphing into a smirk.
"Mmm, well I'll introduce you to perhaps something different then for your palette."
Joscelin's eyes watched the hand move over his arm, not suspiciously or tensely, but trained eyes of a warrior really never let off someone who was touching him.
"Then we shall find somewhere more private for the both of us," in Zexions silent moment he himself was pondering on what to eat and where. He'd like to introduce Zexion to some of the desert cuisine, and there was only one place in the city that was beginning to sample and sell the exotic meals.
The Lexicon's disappearance in such a splendor had his lips twitching, "Well then, hardly just a scholar."
The Prince did not seem put off by this, he seemed nearly curious though he was containing himself. Magic was not an uncommon thing though most could not get formal training, they could not afford it. They learned basic control if they could and it helped them exist and live. Those that could not control their gift were usually killed, but that was in the smaller remote villages and in the Desert.
Leading the way with a soft nod, "There is a small Meal house not as popular as others I frequent often, it has exotic dishes from the Dire Cry, desert dishes of the native flora there. Also varying meats that are native as well. The tastes are very different from what I have known before but I have enjoyed them and perhaps you shall as well."
Through the long twisting halls to the entryway he gave a nod to the guards who gave him a straight backed bow before opening the larger entry doors. Out into the stone courtyard, "Do you wish to walk Zexion? We could take Ithil, my mare, instead if you wished."
“That sounds agreeable to me. It sounds like this meal house will have plenty for both of us to choose from and enjoy.” Zexion’s footsteps were just as quiet as Joscelin’s, the Schemer giving a small nod every now and then as he listened to the description of the place they were heading to. Idly, he wondered just what sort of rumours would arise from the two of them being seen together, but quickly dismissed such pondering as inconsequential. What did it matter? It wasn’t as if he would be unable to just leave if any problems were to arise. Although, the part of him that remembered being Ienzo prodded him with the idea that he might feel bad if his companion faced any problems due to being associated with him.
“Well, how far is it to this meal house? I am perfectly capable of walking, but if it is a great distance or if you need to exercise your mare, we can certainly wish to,” he replied. Granted, he was hardly the most physical of nobodies, but that didn’t mean he was incapable of walking to where he needed to go. Back before he lost his heart, it had been the norm for all of the apprentices to walk to wherever they needed to go within the limits of Radiant Garden. Only rarely did they take the bus or an alternate form of transportation. However, the prospect of riding double with Joscelin wasn’t exactly a bad one, he had to admit. Not too bad at all.
Joscelin knew word of their adventure would spread, people gossiped, people of every race, every station gossiped. But he knew his Ada would defend his choice of what he was doing up until the day of his marriage. There was also part of him that knew his Ada felt deep guilt over arranging a loveless match for his child and would probably push every button he could to try to make this more then it was. Joscelin knew it all, and he ignored it. He was having a night with a young man he had met only yesterday, the first time he had made such a spontaneous choice in his 18 years. The last of his adolescent freedom being exerted here.
"Near to the middle of the city, so about seven blocks. It should not take us more then twenty minutes to walk it if you are alright doing so. It's off to the side down an alley a little, it's still a small place this meal house, giving it a much more private atmosphere."
There were a few servants in the courtyard, some addressing other servants, guards. Others carrying loads of laundry, or loads of food that was bought in market for tonight’s dinner. A few knights near the stables, squires rubbing down horses.
“Hmm, that’s not too bad of a distance. If you are fine with walking and being seen with me, then why don’t we savor this lovely evening?” He suggested, glancing up at Joscelin sideways. “I’m sure you don’t get to enjoy a peaceful evening as often as you would like.” It was true, as far as Zexion was concerned. It had been far too long since he had been in a world where one could safely walk the streets in the evening and just appreciate the atmosphere, as well as the attractive company he was in. He was sure they made quite the striking pair, what with Joscelin in pale blue and silver that complimented silver-white hair and fair features, while Zexion himself was in an outfit of darkest midnight blues and blacks that contrasted with his own pale slate coloured hair.
"No it is not a terrible distance at all," his smile turned soft but his eyes looked about then back to Zexion. "There will be things said of me being with you, the 'dalliance' that this is. But I care not for what is spoken, I have never taken this chance before, I should be able to once before I must marry for politics. So as long as you don't mind potential gossip I certainly do not either. Even if things get bad, I know my Ada will have my back so that is all that matters to me." To not disgrace himself before his Ada, who meant the world to him. A certain shake of his head, "Goodness no, I hardly get evenings to myself, or even with company that is not family. And enjoying just an evening such as this is something I have not been able to do for some time either. Life just seems… to be passing me by... far too quickly now." He stepped stride in stride, pressed close. Zexion, from what Joscelin knew was a mage of some kind, a man of magic but none the less Joscelin was trained as a Blade Dancer, an Elven Defender. One who gave their life before another's in their defense. It was ingrained from two lifetimes, though thankfully the evening was a bit quieter. There were still street performers, doing magical tricks for money, a few spotted handy rogues among the few crowds picking pockets. Guards walking the streets, but vendors were beginning to close as the sun was going to be setting very soon. Joscelin watched one of the thieves get caught and a chuckle left him, "Not quick enough." It appeared he had no problem with the idea of thievery, which was odd for Royalty.
“That seems to more often than not be the case among the nobles I have met during my travels. So many times, I’ve seen those in power almost held prisoner by their position just as much as the lowest serf is held to his position,” he replied simply. “I have no problems with any rumors that may arise, any gossip that may spread; so long as it does not interfere with my work, I really don’t care.” A small shrug, his shoulder brushing against Joscelin’s accompanied his statement. “If we both do not care about any gossip that may spread, then I suggest that we make the most of our time,” he paused as they watched the failed attempt at thievery. He gave an echoing chuckle, equally aware of the necessity of all societal rankings. “No, not by any means. And I must say, you surprise me, my prince. Not many royals would so easily accept the presence of thievery in their cities.”
"If those nobles truly care at all, it is not a position of freedom as much as a position like any other, of dedication and work. Tireless work." Joscelin nodded, "No I have no problem with gossip," He did not know if he should bring up his betrothal for even the sake of honesty. Yet he did not wish to ruin this, or perhaps it was the chance of this he did not wish to ruin. Yet not speaking up on it was as bad as lying he knew very well. And if he left it off, pushed it aside to talk of later he knew he was making convenient excuses that would only continue as the time wore on and he became happier with the other. The soft smile at watching the thief turned for a moment sad. His eyes lost a moment thinking, "I can not condone, I know those who have had to turn to worse things than thievery to live. And even so, Lady Alais, an Elven Lady of Angel blood who helped my Ada take back the throne was an accomplished thief. She was proud of her skills, and with them she aided my Ada's defenders through the Drow Mountians where a subtle hand was needed before a sword." He looked away from the thief as he was dragged off by two guards, the smile back though small this time. "And my Father, he was a contracted and paid assassin. I've known much worse then thievery. Everyone must do what they must to survive. I condone nothing." Moving past the crowd that was dispersing clutching their small leather bags of copper and silver close to them now knowing there were thieves about.
“Rightly said; any position of power brings with it duties and responsibilities, and anyone worth their title knows this.” He shook his hair out of his face, briefly revealing his other eye. Yet again, Zexion was struck by how very interesting and unique Joscelin was proving to be. He was more than worth a little bit of trouble, of that Zexion was firmly decided. It was times like this that he found the lack of a true moral compass the most convenient. They would have their fun and then, after a while, both would move on and return to the responsibilities of their everyday lives. “Every society has those of high and low station, the spaces between filled with far more variety than most would ever know. I have found it to be quite fascinating to study the interactions of these different groups, and how they affect each other as well as how any changes implemented by the ruling body affect them.” Smirking a little, he leaned up to press his lips against Joscelin’s cheek. “But enough of this; you said you did not wish to speak politics tonight, and so we shan’t. Instead, why don’t you tell me something about you? For each thing you tell me, I will likewise answer a question.”
His other hand came up to clasp around Joscelin’s arm, the fingers of both intertwining. “Obviously you are a prince of the realm, but you do not look that much like your brother who came to retrieve you yesterday. Are all of your siblings so strikingly different?”
Seeing the others entire face again, if only briefly, Joscelin again took in the entirety of the other and how unique and attractive Joscelin thought the other to be. Conversation flowed easily with the other like it used to with Wil'helm, he had this feeling that the other did not condone either. That he could state what came to his mind without worrying he would insult sensibilities like with far too many of the court. The other also had an intellectual level Joscelin could appreciate, deeply appreciate. "Every decision effects society as a whole in someway, some more subtle, in the background, barely noticed. Others far more apparently so." The kiss to his cheek was welcomed and not quite as unexpected as the earlier peck to his lips, and kissing of his fingertips. "Ai, I'd rather not." Joscelin smiled and thought on the others words as they walked down the main stone street of the city. The smile was wider, more easily apparent and relaxed like earlier, "We, Raunien and I have different fathers. Kallion is my brother of heart, not of blood. But he is still my brother. I am the only one who has their father in their life, for which I am deeply thankful for. But Kallion’s father is an Arch Angel, Raunien's human. My own is... harder to explain for blood. I can explain if you wish, it is Elven and spiritual. But the least I can I say is, I am reborn. This is not my first life, it is my second." Beginning to move toward a side alley, "How did you come to be a scholar? Or… even a Magic user."
“Yes, each being has their place in the fabric of a kingdom or country.” Zexion nodded, confirming what he had thought might be the case. “Ah, I see… so I take it that parentage does not affect one’s claim to the throne or legitimacy as strongly as I have found in other worlds,” he said, not even realize the slip of the tongue, he was so engrossed in speaking frankly in such a manner that he so rarely indulged in with anyone aside from Lexaeus. “Well do I understand having a brother of the heart. Once, I had five such brothers… but unfortunately, circumstances changed us beyond our most extravagent expectations.” He sighed a little, a small pang of regret twisting the part of him that should have housed his metaphysical heart. “Originally, I was a scientist… a scholar who pursued medicine, science and technology for the greater good of the world I lived in. With that came magic and the realization that it came to me quite naturally. Eventually… things changed, I changed… and was no longer the scientist I once was, becoming someone… something different, stronger and less tethered by the morals of my world.” By now they had entered the establishment and had been shown to a secluded alcove where they were seated. “You move with great grace and carry two blades, yet you speak like a trained politician. How did you come to be so dually trained?”
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Together we shall walk the dusty paths until we reach our ends.
“Not as much as it once did, in my last life to even be anything but Elven was seen as lesser, a person was a lesser being if they were not the First Born race.” Joscelin sitting down across from Zexion did not let the hand go, he clenched it that little bit tighter. His eyes widening, “I did not believe you could be from this world…your hair…your..” A soft chuckle. “Your beauty. The way you think and see the world was refreshing, so very different.” He seems awed, surprised but not worried, fearful or overly shocked. More then anything the Elven Prince appeared curious. “What happened?” Joscelin asked softly though he drew completely silent as a young woman approached the table and she gave a courtesy.
“What would you like to eat your highness? Mylord?” she asked of them both and Joscelin looked to Zexion, “Anything you will not eat? You do not like? To much spices? Anything?” Joscelin awaited Zexion's answer patiently, though he did wish to speak more. To answer Zexion's questions and ask more of his own. Especially now knowing the other was from another world.
A small smile spread across Zexion’s face at the compliment. “You certainly are not lacking in beauty yourself, my prince,” he replied. Glancing down at the menu and then back up at their waitress, he asked, “Would it be possible to get some sort of a variety platter? I think I would like to be able to try a few different items if that is possible. I’m not overly fond of spices strong enough to make my eyes water, but I don’t mind a little bit of heat.” Waiting until the girl had left to place their food order in the kitchen, he absently rubbed the back of the hand gripping his own. “It was an accident. Things weren’t supposed to have happened that way, the containment chamber should have held it back but… in the end, we all lost our Hearts to the Heartless. To Darkness.” A soft, almost bitter chuckle escaped past his lips. “We never should have dared to press so far, but Ienzo… I was so eager to know, to understand, to find a way to stop the spread of the Heartless invasion of my home world.”
Sighing, he reached up with his free hand to brush back his hair, revealing his whole face briefly. “By losing my Heart, I gained the ability to travel between worlds without need of a ship, the ability to summon and use my lexicon… but some days I wonder if it was worth it. We were unable to stop the Heartless after all of our sacrifices and had to silently stand witness to the fall of our home into Darkness.”Reaching for the mug of tea that had been placed in front of him, he sipped it thoughtfully before continuing. “I became more powerful and stopped aging when I became what I am now. But until I regain my sacrificed Heart, I will never be able to truly feel. All that I have left are echoes, mere shadows of what I should feel.” Looking up at Joscelin, he met lavender eyes and held their gaze.
“I’m sure you think me a monster now… and I understand completely. But I do hope that you can see past it, see that there is more to a person, to a being than whether or not they have a Heart and can feel emotions as strongly as those who are lucky enough to still have theirs.”
Joscelin smiled softly at the comment on his own beauty, the words appreciated, but not enough to make him blush like earlier advances. The girl curtsied again before leaving to tell her father who was the cook to make up a little bit of a few of their best dishes for the two to try. Joscelin was silent, not in a way of condemnation but silent observer, listening to the rest of what Zexion had to say. Allowing him the time to speak for himself, to explain as he saw fit what had happened to him. Lost..his heart? No, the other was not a heartless, he could not be. But then..he was a nobody? The explanation of residual emotions seemed to fit though he had never heard of such a thing before. But old scriptures said to be whole you must have, Heart, Body and soul. So perhaps it could be possible without a heart to feel still? It explained Drefan's hatred and anger when he should not have felt any as a heartless. His hand moving so the palm grasped Zexion's strongly.
"I have only had experience with Heartless, their was a powerful Heartless commander who tried to destroy our world before I was born. My Ada was able to defeat him. But little have I heard of nobodies, all that I have heard is preconceived by ignorance. The fact that you feel anything, even the residual past of emotions is more then the Sere'th believe nobodies have.."
Joscelin's eyes fill with sadness for a moment.
"They treat her like she does not exist except to whisper about her. Reinforcing that she could never feel anything because they give her no opportunity." Licking over his lips Joscelin's eyes cleared starring into Zexion's lone that he could see. "No. I do not believe you are a monster. No being that has rational thought is a monster, even one who tries to destroy a world. A monster is something beyond thought of anything but it's next kill. You are not that, the heartless who tried to destroy this world was not even that. Monster is a title I reserve for very... very few."
“Many, if not most people believe that… believe that to be a Nobody is to be nothing, that a nobody is not only an anomaly but an anathema to all that is Light and living. To be a nobody is to belong to neither Light nor Dark, to be rejected by both. True, we don’t feel as much as we once did, but at least we have retained our bodies, our minds, our souls unlike the mindless dusks who serve us. It takes a being of great strength of will, heart and mind to become a nobody, especially one such as I,” Zexion’s words were calm, soft even but his eyes betrayed him, showing that on this subject he was still passionate.
“Very few people can understand this as you do, let alone accept that things may not be as they were always taught.” He smiled a little as he lifted their joined hands and brought Joscelin’s once more to his lips, leaving a light kiss.
“I am immeasurably grateful for your understanding and acceptance. It’s incredibly refreshing.”
At just that moment, the young girl who was serving as their waitress returned with a place of appetizers, along with a basket of a variety of breads and rolls. “Thank you,” he said, giving her a small smile. “So that’s enough about me. I do believe it’s your turn now.” The smile broadened into his more familiar smirk.
"It is difficult to move beyond what one was taught from a very young age. But I know often things taught from ancient knowledge can be preconceived from ignorance. I cannot just believe what is taught by a people who have believed for thousands of years they are superior because they were put upon this world first. Given breath and life first, developed civilization first this makes them far better then anyone else." He, like his Mentor, could take small pride in their race, but believed them far too conceited. A soft chuckle at the small kiss, "Forgive me for breaking our order of questions Zexion, it is not everyday you learn that the person you have been flirting with for two days is so different. Though of course, it is not something I am disgusted by. A little saddened I will not lie. But it does not change what I already felt concerning you." Joscelin took up a roll and a knife, spreading some soft cheese on it to take a bite before he began to answer the others earlier question.
"The duality of my roles goes back to this being my second life. My first, my mother died when I was quite young to a fate the Gods had instilled for her for reasons beyond my understanding. I took the throne quite young and learned diplomacy as best as I could. I was a born fighter though and put my heart into learning the old Elven customs of the Blade Dancers. They are meant for defense only, never to strike first, to kill if no other option. Though they are more pacifists, they are feared." Taking a drink of his tea to wet his throat. "I also had to lead an army to war my last life. Dire Cry was attacking Camar'a, I swore to my men that they would not be the only ones to perhaps lose their loved ones, their sons and their husbands. I left my husband and... the son I had only given birth to perhaps..3 months prior behind and led my country to war."
“Yes it would be difficult to let such teachings just slide to the wayside, especially with such a strong emphasis on racial superiority.” Following Joscelin’s lead, Zexion deftly sliced a roll, spread some of the soft herb cheese and then delicately nibbled on it while he listened. If he didn’t have the self control he did, he might have choked at the rather shocking revelation of a male giving birth. Never, in all his travels had he ever encountered such a thing. “So you have been able to remember all aspects of your past life? That’s quite amazing. Do you remember what your past self looked like?” He glanced up as the platters of food were set before them, before continuing. “I can’t imagine what it must have been like to not only leave your spouse behind, but also your child. It must have been terribly hard.”
"It had been but I left them behind when fell for a young human male. His name was Wil'helm; he was only 16 when his village was burned to the ground, he had managed to hide under rubble appearing dead to those who prodded at him until I and a small troop of Elven warriors arrived. When even after all he had gone through, two of my men decided to try to abuse him..." Joscelin ate the rest of the bread taking a moments silence, his brow furrowed. "I was never so angry before in my life, and so thoroughly disgusted. I allowed him to sleep in my tent for his safety until we arrived back at the castle. I learned he was quick witted and intelligent farmers son who had bribed the villages priest to teach him the bare basics of reading and writing if he would do a lot of the church's chores."
A soft smile at those memories.
"I taught him more as we traveled at night after settling into camp, and he began his studies at the castle becoming quite a knowledge young man on just about anything that interested him."
Sipping more of his tea. "I can remember everything of my last life, from birth to..my death. In perfect detail." A soft chuckle, "As I said my birthing was strange, you see in truth. My Father is a vampire, a creature of undeath and thus unable to have a child. My Ada Nathanial asked me in the realm of spirits if I wished to be reborn, and if I could be his son. In truth, Nathanial is my grandchild, but I readily agreed knowing Nathan needed an heir, a strong heir to help him. So I am reborn as myself, though Nathanial gave birth to me and I bear upon me one distinguishing marking of him, I am me. I was this way last life, and I am now. I look nothing like either of my parents. I am Joscelin Quele, the man I was last life, except born anew. With new possibilities, just with old knowledge."
Zexion was silent as Joscelin spoke, listening carefully even as he sampled the different dishes that had been set before them both. This was indeed an incredible world he found himself on, a world where same sex pairings were not only accepted but somehow able to conceive children despite the fact that such a thing should have been physically impossible. Not only that, but the young man sitting with him had been called forth from the spirit realm to walk the shores of the living once again. It was amazing, to say the least. “You’ve lived such a fantastical existence, it’s almost like hearing something out of a story. You have truly defied many of the laws of not only biological physics but metaphysics as well. In the least expected place, you found love as well as a worthy adviser from the way you speak of Wil’helm. Very few are so lucky.” Leaning forward, he reached for and clasped one of the silver haired man’s hands, looking him straight in the eye.
“You, my prince, are a beautifully fascinating conundrum of existence,” he lifted the hand to kiss the back of it lightly, bending his neck enough so that his eyelashes brushed against the skin ever so slightly. “I should like to help you make the most of the new possibilities presented by this life… perhaps put that old knowledge of yours to good use,” Zexion gave a small wink as he straightened and moved to sip his tea.
Joscelin bowed his head a little forward, "I know I am greatly lucky to have had this second chance. I do not wish to waste this chance given to me, but I shall do what the Gods require of me, for it is they who gave me this second chance." So he would do what is required come what may, through the pain and else.
"He made my last life wonderful, even in the times of war I knew I had someone to return to who would miss me. Someone who wanted me for myself, not for the crown or the power, even the wealth. I was very lucky." Was. Speaking in such a way as if it would not so again this time around. No he would marry Jay and do his duties, then fade away. He knew he was going to fade away, an elven ritualistic suicide. But he did not speak up on that, he would not. He would make of what he had. Watching Zexion kiss his hand he smiled deeper his own eyelashes fluttering against his own cheeks as his eyes close.
A soft chuckle leaving him, "I would make the most of what I know then." The smile was teasing as the other winked and he drank more of his tea taking a silent moment before setting it down again. "Why did you wish to come 'here' Zexion?" This world in general, though he did not say world, as the lower populace knew nothing of other worlds.
-- Edited by Zexion on Tuesday 5th of May 2009 06:26:43 PM
Joscelin smiled softly at the comment on his own beauty, the words appreciated, but not enough to make him blush like earlier advances. The girl courtesied again before leaving to tell her father who was the cook to make up a little bit of a few of their best dishes for the two to try. Joscelin was silent, not in a way of condemnation but silent observer, listening to the rest of what Zexion had to say. Allowing him the time to speak for himself, to explain as he saw fit what had happened to him. Lost..his heart? No, the other was not a heartless, he could not be. But then..he was a nobody? The explanation of residual emotions seemed to fit though he had never heard of such a thing before. But old scriptures said to be whole you must have, Heart, Body and soul. So perhaps it could be possible without a heart to feel still? It explained Drefans hatred and anger when he should not have felt any as a heartless. His hand moving so the palm grasped Zexions strongly.
"I have only had experience with Heartless, their was a powerful Heartless commander who tried to destroy our world before I was born. My Ada was able to defeat him. But little have I heard of nobodies, all that I have heard is preconceived by ignorance. The fact that you feel anything, even the residual past of emotions is more then the Sere'th believe nobodies have.."
Joscelin's eyes fill with saddness a moment. "They treat her like she does not exist except to whisper about her. Reinforcing that she could never feel anything because they give her no opportunity." Licking over his lips Joscelins eyes cleared starring into Zexions lone that he could see. "No. I do not believe you are a monster. No being that has rational thought is a monster, even one who tries to destroy a world. A monster is something beyond thought of anything but it's next kill. You are not that, the heartless who tried to destroy this world was not even that. Monster is a title I reserve for very..very few."
“Many, if not most people believe that… believe that to be a Nobody is to be nothing, that a nobody is not only an anomaly but an anethema to all that is Light and living. To be a nobody is to belong to neither Light nor Dark, to be rejected by both. True, we don’t feel as much as we once did, but at least we have retained our bodies, our minds, our souls unlike the mindless dusks who serve us. It takes a being of great strength of will, heart and mind to become a nobody, especially one such as I,” Zexion’s words were calm, soft even but his eyes betrayed him, showing that on this subject he was still passionate.
“Very few people can understand this as you do, let alone accept that things may not be as they were always taught.” He smiled a little as he lifted their joined hands and brought Joscelin’s once more to his lips, leaving a light kiss. “I am immeasurably grateful for your understanding and acceptance. It’s incredibly refreshing.”
At just that moment, the young girl who was serving as their waitress returned with a place of appetizers, along with a basket of a variety of breads and rolls. “Thank you,” he said, giving her a small smile. “So that’s enough about me. I do believe it’s your turn now.” The smile broadened into his more familiar smirk.
"It is diffacult to move beyond what one was taught from a very young age. But I know oftened things taught from ancient knowledge can be preconceived from ignorance. I can not just believe what is taught by a people who have believed for thousands of years they are superior because they were put upon this world first. Given breath and life first, learned to civilization first this makes them far better then anyone else."
He like his Mentor could take small pride in their race, but believed them far to conceited. A soft chuckle at the small kiss, "Forgive me for breaking our order of questions Zexion it is not everyday you learn that the person you have been flirting with for two days is so different. Though of course, it is not something I am disgusted by. A little saddened I will not lie. But it does not change what I already felt concerning you." Joscelin took up a roll and a knife, spreading some soft cheese on it to take a bite before he began to answer the others earlier question.
"The duality of my roles goes back to this being my second life. My first my mother died when I was quite young to a fate the Gods had instilled for her for reasons beyond my understandings. I took the throne quite young and learned diplomacy as best as I could. I was a born fighter though and put my heart into learning the old Elven customs of the Blade Dancers. They are meant for defense only, never to strike first, to kill if no other option. Though they are more pacifists they are feared."
Taking a drink of his tea to wet his throat. "I also had to lead an army to war my last life, Dire Cry was attacking Camar'a, I swore to my men that they would not be the only ones to perhaps lose their loved ones, their sons and their husbands. I left my husband and..the son I had only given birth to perhaps..3 months prior behind and lead my country to war."
“Yes it would be difficult to let such teachings just slide to the wayside, especially with such a strong emphasis on racial superiority.” Following Joscelin’s lead, Zexion deftly sliced a roll, spread some of the soft herbed cheese and then delicately nibbled on it while he listened. If he didn’t have the self control he did, he might have choked at the rather shocking revelation of a male giving birth. Never, in all his travels had he ever encountered such a thing.
“So you have been able to remember all aspects of your past life? That’s quite amazing. Do you remember what your past self looked like?” He glanced up as the platters of food were set before them, before continuing. “I can’t imagine what it must have been like to not only leave your spouse behind, but also your child. It must have been terribly hard.”
"It has been but I left them behind when fell for a young human male. His name was Wil'helm, he was only 16 when his village was burned to the ground, he had managed to hide under rubble appearing dead to those who prodded at him until I and a small troop of Elven warriors arrived. When even after all he had gone through, two of my men decided to try to abuse him..." Joscelin ate the rest of the bread taking a moments silence, his brow furrowed. "I was never so angry before in my life, and so thoughly disgusted. I allowed him to sleep in my tent for his safety until we arrived back at the castle. I learned he was quick witted and intelligent farmers son who had bribed the villages priest to teach him the bare basics of reading and writing if he would do alot of the church's chores."
A soft smile at those memories. "I taught him more as we traveled at night after settling into camp, and he began his studies at the castle becoming quite a knowledge young man on just about anything that interested him." Sipping more of his tea. "I can remember everything of my last life, from birth to..my death. In perfect detail."
A soft chuckle, "As I said my birthing was strange, you see in truth. My Father is a vampire, a creature of undeath and thusly unable to have a child. My Ada Nathanial asked me in the realm of spirits if I wished to be reborn, and if I could be his son. In truth Nathanial is my grandchild, but I readily agreed knowing Nathan needed an heir, a strong heir to help him. So I am reborn as myself, though Nathanial gave birth to me and I bear upon me one distinguishing marking of him, I am me. I was this way last life, and I am now. I look nothing like either of my parents. I am Joscelin Quele, the man I was last life, except anew. With new possibilities, just with old knowledge."
Zexion was silent as Joscelin spoke, listening carefully even as he sampled the different dishes that had been set before them both. This was indeed an incredible world he found himself on, a world where same sex pairings were not only accepted but somehow able to conceive children despite the fact that such a thing should have been physically impossible. Not only that, but the young man sitting with him had been called forth from the spirit realm to walk the shores of the living once again. It was amazing, to say the least.
“You’ve lived such a fantastical existence, it’s almost like hearing something out of a story. You have truly defied many of the laws of not only biological physics but metaphysics as well. In the least expected place, you found love as well as a worthy advisor from the way you speak of Wil’helm. Very few are so lucky.” Leaning forward, he reached for and clasped one of the silver haired man’s hands, looking him straight in the eye.
“You, my prince, are a beautifully fascinating condundrum of existence,” he lifted the hand to kiss the back of it lightly, bending his neck enough so that his eyelashes brushed against the skin ever so slightly. “I should like to help you make the most of the new possibilities presented by this life… perhaps put that old knowledge of yours to good use,” Zexion gave a small wink as he straightened and moved to sip his tea.
Joscelin bowed his head a little forward, "I know I am greatly lucky to have had this second chance. I do not wish to waste this chance given to me, but I shall do what the Gods require of me, for it is they who gave me this second chance." So he would do what is required come what may, through the pain and else.
"He made my last life wonderful, even in the times of war I knew I had someone to return to who would miss me. Someone who wanted me for myself, not for the crown or the power, even the wealth. I was very lucky." Was. Speaking in such a way as if it would not so again this time around. No he would marry Jay and do his duties, then fade away. He knew he was going to fade away, an elven ritualistic suicide. But he did not speak up on that, he would not. He would make of what he had. Watching Zexion kiss his hand he smiled deeper his own eyelashes fluttering against his own cheeks as his eyes close.
A soft chuckle leaving him, "I would make the most of what I know then." The smile was teasing as the other winked and he drank more of his tea taking a silent moment before setting it down again. "Why did you wish to come 'here' Zexion?" This world in general, though he did not say world, as the lower populace knew nothing of other worlds.
While he suspect that there was more that Joscelin wasn’t saying, Zexion let it slide for the time being. There was always the chance that he could find out what his companion was holding back about. For now though, he had a question to answer and he knew that he would have to be careful about what he said. Just because the prince readily accepted that he was from another world and a Nobody as well, it didn’t necessarily follow that his involvement in the Organization should even be disclosed, let alone whether or not it would likewise be accepted. Nibbling on what he guessed was a piece of spiced fowl, he gathered his thoughts before swallowing and speaking. “Well,” he began.
“We had learned that there is a high prevalence of magic here, and knowing that magic tends to attract the heartless, some very basic scouting was done before I was eventually sent here. When I arrived, I knew only that heartless had been seen here, but somehow you have avoided being completely over-run by them.”
Running his finger absently along the rim of his tea cup, he considered his situation. “I was sent to discover, if I could, how your people have managed to hold off the heartless. It’s quite an impressive accompishment and one that is very worthy of being documented.” He said nothing of his intent to find out if it would be possible to establish a stronghold here, as well as acquiring information about the strength of the hearts found in this world. Sometimes, there were just things not spoken of; especially in front of a potential liason. “So you seem to like the intelligent type,” Zexion smirked, leaning forward a little to rest his chin on his palm. “What else do you like?”
Nibbling on some crunchy veggies the Elven Prince listened to the other thoughtfully, a hand under his chin. "Drefan and Laucious controlled the heartless of this world though thankfully they were not working together. My Ada and those who had helped him back to the throne defeated Laucious deep within the Drow mountians months before my Ada managed to defeat Drefan. Both were the largest forces of heartless on this world and they were defeated those years ago. Those heros that are still alive from that journey keep news of heartless populations and do try to keep them under control. Of course, the fundamental belief on this world is that as long as their is darkness in any heart the heartless shall remain."
A soft shrug, he believed that as well, but it was not a doctrine he lived by. Not like Kallion. "If you wish Zexion, you can meet my Ada. Even if he knew what you were he would have I do believe the same reaction as myself. Your being a nobody is not something Ada would condemn you for." A very soft smile, his love for the person that gave birth to him was so easily apparent. His admiration, his respect and affection. Drinking the last of his tea he settled back against the chair a little more comfortably.
"I do like those with high intelligence," he chuckled softly. "And though Wil'helm did not know how to fight and generally needed my protection I do usually like better a sense of equality. Though I am taught to defend, I like to know the person I am defending can watch my back as well. So I'm attracted to intellect, a quick mind and someone who can match me in someway in looking after themselves."
“Hmm,” Zexion hummed thoughtfully. What Joscelin told him matched what he had read so far on the war against the invading heartless army a generation or so ago. “Well, I think I may take you up on that offer sometime soon. It would be great to have a direct account from someone who was actually here for the conflict.” He returned the smile with one of his own, “I too appreciate high intelligence and wit in a partner. And to have someone who is willing to meet me half way in all aspects is quite welcome.”
Lips quirking up, he moved the few inches necessary to connect their lips in a prolongued kiss before sitting back with a smugly satisfied expression. “An attractive outside to match is always a bonus. I certainly don’t mind defending my mate’s back, even though I’d much rather avoid physical conflict, given the option.”
A dip of his head once again, "If you wish to just tell me, I can find a time when Ada is not in meetings." Hearing the other appreciated along the same lines was good, very welcome. "I do not like to feel like I am being made to take fully responsibility for myself and my mate at all times. I do not mind when my mate has moments of weakness supporting them, I would ask the same in return but knowing that not at all times must I watch both of us."
Wil'helm he had had to do that and he did not love his last love any less for it but he wanted to know perhaps this time that would not be required. But it did not matter...he would find no love in the match set for him and he would wither away after having an heir. He knew that. Kissing back in that prolonged kiss he chuckled softly and smiled again.
"Oh yes attractive on the outside is always quite the nice extra." The chuckling grew a moment, " I would rather avoid conflict at all, but often-ed that is impossible. Words don't work always." A soft sigh as he leaned his head against the wall. The day was catching up with him though he was trying to ignore it. He was exhausted, his lavender eyes were a little whiter from how tired he was.
“Yes, it seems only fair that both members of a pair take it in turn to protect and support each other as needed. Each person needs to meet the other halfway,” Zexion replied, leaning back and idly playing with his tea cup. He had eaten his fill of the food brought out for him and was more than ready to relax for a little bit. His day had started rather early, even by his standards and although it had been spent reading, he was quite tired mentally. Looking over at Joscelin, he noted how the others eyes had grown lighter while the very slight circles beneath were only just barely noticeable. “No, words sadly do not always solve a problem. It would be an ideal world if that were so, but I have yet to find such a place.”
Pushing his chair back a little, he stood and bent to offer his hand to Joscelin. “I think perhaps it is time we retired to someplace away from prying eyes. I definitely want to continue our conversation, but if you pardon my saying so, you look as if you have barely enough energy to make the walk back. If I’d known you were so tired, I would have insisted we ride here rather than walk.”
"Constant worry of your strength for you and your mate becomes exhausting, wondering if you are strong enough to support both of you." Never would he speak ill of the dead, and particularly his deceased husband of his last life. But he had hoped for something different this time where he would not be such a situation again. Though the situation he would find himself when he married was not what he wanted either. Hardly. He always ended up having to wear high collars these days after his meetings with Jay...
A soft smile and he took Zexions hand pulling himself to his feet. "And it is the position of a warrior and heir never to allow themselves to look vulnurable. I have tried to stave off this exhaustion for most of the day. Having a meeting with the Skarn who are all warriors I could not given an inch of ground and then I did not wish to give up this possible evening with yourself." He stretched and forced away the tiredness in his eyes, willing it away. Holding onto the hand that had been offered him he dipped to Zexion lightly kissing the others lips. Massaging the others with his own.
“Hmm that is very true. When one is in any sort of high position, it is never wise to appear even the least bit weak in front of others.” It was something he had learned first as Ienzo and later as Zexion, ranked number six in the Organization. In that pack of rabid wolves, the slightest hint of weakness was an invitation for others to exploit and use that against you in order to gain favour with the Superior. It was not unheard of for one of the neophytes to take advantage of another member being injured on a mission, using that to make the injured member look less capable in the eyes of Xemnas. His thoughts were distracted by the press of warm lips against his own, Zexion’s mouth opening as the gentle prodding of Joscelin’s tongue against them. Their tongues met and slid against each other for a few moments. He made a soft murmuring sound of appreciation as he pulled back a little, his blue eyes so dark they almost appeared black in the low lighting of the Meal house.
“Well then,” he said quietly, his voice just barely breathy from the kiss they’d exchanged. “I think we’ve put on enough of a show here to keep the gossip-mongerers busy for a few hours.” A smirk appeared on his face, although he did nothing to move away from where he was standing close enough to the Elven prince to feel the warmth from the others body.
An arm wrapped around Zexions back while they had kissed, a soft blush in his cheeks as he pulled back. First deep kiss he had had this life, the first kiss involving tongues and being greatly breathless after. He wasn't completely a virgin, not in every sense of the word. He had his memories from his last life, vivid and easy to recall but their was a difference in that, he had lived the last nearly 18 years alone again. This body was a virgin even if his mind was not completely, though it had been quite sometime...He knew what he was doing to a degree but still appeared a little flustered, though of course this was something he tried to hide.
"Indeed," he smiled teasingly regaining himself looking to the young waitress who blushed and fled behind the curtain that separated the kitchen and the main eating area. Gripping Zexions hand his lavender eyes looked into the others again. "If this is to go any further Zexion their are a few things I must tell you , allow me to on the way back."
“Certainly,” Zexion bowed his head slightly, digging in his pouch for a handful of coins to leave behind on the table in payment for their meal. Looking up into lavender eyes, he found a genuine smile appearing on his face, the Schemer attracted and entranced by his beautiful companion. The silver haired male was certainly attractive physically, but the mix of anxious frustration with a certain practiced skill was something wholy unique that Zexion attributed to Joscelin’s fully intact memories of his past life.
It made him feel less like he was completely deflowering a naïve virgin, and more like he was partnering with someone who had simply abstained for a decade or two. Once they had left the Meal house behind them and were walking back towards the castle grounds in companionable silence, he let his hand slip from Joscelin’s, only to wind his arm boldly around the prince’s narrow waist. “So what is it you wanted to tell me, my prince? And shall we retire to your chambers or mine?”
Joscelin smiled back reassured when Zexion did not seem put off with things having been withheld till that moment, and out into the streets they walked. It was far darker now, almost no lights except a few dotting the main road. Globes high up of fogged light, magical light that gave a soft white washed glow to the street below. But otherwise their was the candle light from behind some windows curtains and nothing else. Though the prince could see perfectly fine in this low light, part of his race and the arm around his waist he stayed close to Zexion as they walked.
"I do not know how to go about explaining this, but I must. I am engaged, I am not going to be forthright and think this was anything more then a dalliance," eyes laid back on Zexion. "Especially in circumstances of feelings," a soft smile of understanding of the Zexions earlier words. Remembrance of feelings, the other remembered what it was like once to feel that was all.
"But because of the marriage contract between Camar'a and Dire Cry, the northern wastelands, I must be careful. If Jay sees any reason to break the marriage contract, our lands are at war once again. I've been to war with Dire Cry, I have seen that devastation. I would never wish it upon my country again. In the contract it says I must remain a virgin till my wedding night." A soft chuckle, "I know Jay has not heeded that but I still must. Though Jay does not need to know that we have done anything the two of us, if 'I' am physically a virgin the night I wed Jay he will be non the wiser. And I will at least have one night with a man who does not repulse me, a man that I respect and wish to lay with." His eyes looked back out at the castle, "And if you are still wanting after that..my own chambers would be nice."
Zexion could honestly say he wasn’t terribly surprised. Granted, he hadn’t suspected the details, but he had assumed that from the way Joscelin spoke that he was tied to a marriage contract. It was, after all, the way of those in power to end a conflict between warring sides. Sacrifices would be made for the greater good of the people; it was better that one must suffer so that many would live in peace. It had been the way of politics for centuries, even eons on end and the slate haired nobody very much doubted that it was likely to change in the future. So that left him with a decision to be made; should he continue what they had already started, knowing as he did what the outcome would be?
It was true that he had never expected anything more than a night of erotic amusement, perhaps a few more if things went well before he had to return to the Castle Naught. In the end, he decided it was worth it.
Briefly pausing their relaxed walking, he gazed earnestly up at Joscelin. “I have to admit that I had suspected you were the victim of some sort of marriage contract,” he began. “I understand that you have to meet certain…hmm… requirements for this contract to remain in tact. That is not a problem for me, I see no reason for you to deny yourself a few nights’ pleasure. Especially if your husband-to-be has already voided his side of the arrangement.”
He shrugged slightly, guiding them back onto the walkway, the lights in the castle shining brightly ahead of them. “It is of no real concern to me; I will be gone from this world in a few weeks’ time, perhaps sooner, perhaps later. Either way, any conflicts or wars that arise in the future will have little effect on me. If you are willing, than I will gladly retire to your chambers.”
Joscelin nodded his free hand moving up to run through the slate colored hair that he found so interesting as Zexion spoke. "Yes, these last..two weeks of freedom before I marry Jay I wished to use; to be with you." A shake of his head as his eyes looked back at the castle saddly. He knew that sounded emotional and he would it rather have not, but Elves had a hard time covering their emotions. He would not let himself get hurt by what he had originally wanted as a tiny dalliance with a man he had hardly knew, and now knew was a nobody. As they came closer to the castle Joscelin's eyes slide back to Zexion, "Very well then," he spoke with a dip of his head.
"You would be so inclined then not to mention any markings you find on me to anyone then? If the conflicts and politics of this world have little effect on you Vanima? I may die in this marriage, but at the very least, until I do. I will have kept the peace." His eyes were sad, yet hard all the same. A look of someone who knew a fate they wished to fight against, chains that chaffed at pride and honor, but would give in because as Zexion had thought. Joscelin was sacrificing himself, one for the betterment of so many others. And that to him was worth it, even if it ended in his abuse, rape and death. He could just hope the Gods would be lenient upon him seeing he had done only what he believed they had wanted. So perhaps he could have another chance at a life, but this time...Forget. Forget everything and start fresh.
"To my chambers then Zexion." Through the courtyard and into the castle's main hall through the doors opened by the night guard.
“I have no reason to share any words that may be spoken in private as well as any marks that I may see. And even if I did, I would not do so. I may at times appear self-serving, but when I give my word, I abide by it. I am nothing if not honourable.” It was the simple truth. Zexion may use words to serve his purposes, he may manipulate others to achieve his means, but in the end, if he gave his word it was something he would stand by, no matter what. Leaning his face towards the hand gently brushing through his silken hair, he reflected that it had been a very long time indeed since another had touched him with such heartfelt affection and attraction. “Everyone deserves a chance at some happiness in their lives, even if it is for little more than a fleeting moment.” Stretching up, he kissed Joscelin lightly on the cheek as they walked down the nearly silent hallway. At this time of night, there were only a few servants finishing up their duties, some scattered guards and the random courtier making a late evening rendezvous.
It meant there would be few witnesses to his entrance, and departure for that matter, from their prince’s chambers. Unsure of their exact path, he allowed the elven prince to lead the way, content for the moment to keep his arm around the others waist. “If nothing else, I believe we can come to an agreement on an arrangement that suits both of us,” he added, once again smirking up at the beautiful male walking beside him.
A dip of his head again in thanks at the others honesty, and integrity. "Ai, I'm hoping that perhaps these two weeks are something I can draw on later." Something he could remember with joy, and draw strength form even if it was so little and could do nothing else to help him. Holding close to Zexion as they passed down the halls he leading the way toward the Royal wing hoping against hope he would not come across any of his brothers. His Ada would be less mortifying then his brothers, his Ada at least understood. His brothers..not even close.
"I'm certain we can Zexion, come to an agreement, and an arrangement without to much difficulty." The Royal wing they entered, a shorter stretch of hall with red carpet down it, no guard in sight. The door at the furthest end of the hall closed behind a figure leaving the room. This door far larger, signifying as well as being at the furthest, the King's room. The figure's hair was light brown and in waves down to shoulders, white bunched cloth at his throat, a dark purple doublet over a lighter purple vest beneath. His breeches black into black leather boots. A strong nose, and strong features of a human, though the skin was paler, veins around the hair line and prominent over the long fingered hands. The brown eyes were washed blind, but a soft smile was on the mans lips. A daisy twirling in one hand between fingertips. The man to one with such a good sense of smell, would smell of cologne, fresh blood and decay. A vampire. The blind eyes looked beyond the two approaching hearing the noise of them both and approached relaxed, a free hand on the rapier sheath on his left hip.
"Little Joscelin, is this the one that has caught your attention that you bring back with you?" His speech was slower, well practised, the sounds of a high noble. "Papa, this is Zexion." Joscelin answered and Damion smiled a twisting smile. "I see. Then it is a fair eve to meet you Zexion." A bow.
A wry smile twisted Zexion’s lips as he nodded his agreement. “Yes, I doubt it shall be very difficult to accomplish such a thing.” Looking up, he studied and observed the man silently regarding them as they approached the impressive doors. After having essentially been an heir as well as Ansem the Wise’s apprentice, Zexion knew immediately that they had entered the royal family’s private wing. This was confirmed when Joscelin identified the man standing before them as one of his parents. A vampire, if he wasn’t mistaken; it was hard for him to not recognize the odors that came from the pale human man, a scent of death, of deep earth and the slow decay of mortality, all hidden beneath the stronger scent of cologne. This one though… this was one of the dignified few that was like as not to encourage such radical stories of the unearthly beautiful hunter who struck in the dead of night with only the silver moon for illumination.
The stuff of legends and pure fantasy, he was certain, although it was obvious there was a grain of truth to such stories. And certainly, an interesting individual to have as a parent. “A fair eve indeed,” he replied, bowing deeply and gracefully, his eyes never leaving the vampire’s own faded brown eyes. “It’s an honour to meet the father of Prince Joscelin.”
Damion's unseeing eyes stayed where they were though not directly on them as his lips kept his twisted little smile. "It is an honour to meet the one man my son will willing give himself to." Joscelin's eyes sharpened on his father a moment and the twist deepened on Damion's lips as if the man knew he was treading on ground he should not and was finding amusement in it. "If you excuse me young ones, I have a meal to find, perhaps a random boy to sleep with." A chuckle left him as he moved past the two, though in a move that belayed his blindness, his fingertips found Joscelins to trail over.
"Sacrifice does not make nobility. Remember that child before you try to hide the bite of mine own kind from me." A deep swallow as Joscelin's eyes looked back following his father down the short hall, the lavender eyes were troubled. Damion had known...did Ada know then? No..Damion was only Nathans consort, he had no place in politics and did not bring politics into their relationship. He would not have told Nathanial about the bite, about the possible abuse. But the words still stung, his father believed him a fool for his actions. Hardening eyes looked back and a sigh left the prince before he gave a tiny smile to Zexion.
"Let's get to my chambers." Put this behind us...please. The last few feet to his bedroom and he unlocked the door with a silver key around his neck he brought off letting go of the other to do so. The room was blacks and silvers, the bed a Queen size. Paintings on the walls of his family, and cheery stained wood furniture, vanity, table and chairs, head and end of bed.
Remaining silent through the exchange, Zexion couldn’t help but quirk his eyebrow up at the last bit. He’s been with another vampire? He wondered if perhaps Joscelin’s betrothed was the one behind the marks. The prince had mentioned that his marriage may very well lead to his death, and what race better knew the art of death than a vampire? Sighing and filing his theories away for later consideration, he gave his companion’s hand a reassuring squeeze. “Of course.” When the door was unlocked and opened, he quickly scanned the room, the action an unconscious habit he had developed and honed. One always checked the room where one would be retiring for anything that might pose a potential threat before letting down one’s guards.
Even then, it was never wise to just naively assume that his partner likewise checked the room. Turning around, his lips quirking upwards, he stalked towards Joscelin until the Elven prince was backed up against the now closed door. He planted his hands on either side of slim hips and stretched up to connect their lips. “You said you wanted to enjoy your last fortnight of freedom,” he murmured softly against Joscelin’s pale neck, his breath warm against skin that prickled with the movement of air. “Let’s not waste time with what have beens or what may bes. For now,” his hand came up to gently cup his soon to be lover’s cheek, agile fingers brushing the downy skin. “It’s just us and you needn’t worry about anything that happens in here being repeated to anyone else on this world.”
