FINAL ARC .

" I sense your strong aura ! "

[auraspheres]

an INDIE. SELECTIVE. CANON DIV. AURA GUARDIAN RILEY from POKEMON D/P/PT + ancestor verse ft. Sir Aaron written by leche! Multiverse, crossover, and oc friendly. please read rules under cut before following!

「 ✧ 」 ABOUT. PROMO. MEME TAG. HEADCANONS.

rules!

✧ Very canon divergent. A lot of history, headcanons, and even in-game events are explored differently here. While in some realm canon complimenting this iteration greatly diverges from the norm.

✧Triggering content containing NSFW both sexual and intensive themes. I do write smut but all of the above is put under a read more and tagged accordingly. Please be 18+ to interact.

✧ Selective, crossover/oc friendly, mutuals only etc etc. I only interact with mutuals and wait to be followed first before following back if I can see our characters and writing meshing well. This is just so I can have an active dashboard that I can freely interact with.

✧ You do not need a verse to interact with my muse. If anything I prefer general crossover to see how they interact in their various worlds.

✧ While open to shipping and discussing possible connections with my muses I will not insta-ship. It’ll have to be chemistry and interaction based with buildup and note the blog is not ship-focused.

✧ Please like any ask or starter I answered for you! Tumblr as always has its faults in its notifications. It’ll save me a lot of anxiety if you do! Thanks a bunch!

✧ I don’t do mains or exclusives in any way. While I do have close mutuals I’ll interact with a lot because of comfort there are no central characters or plots otherwise besides my own. If a muse wants to get involved in some exclusive way please come by me to see if we can plot something out.

✧ I’m not interested in poly-shipping. Nothing wrong with it ofcourse but Im only really comfortable shipping with friends or mutuals I know and on the same space as I’m in. I’d ask for a single-verse for my muse or we can go through a platonic route if your muse is exclusively poly, but as with anything please come talk to me for anything.

✧ You dont have to ask to reply to an ask. Please do! If anything I ask if possible to follow through on a meme or ask you’ve sent be turned into an interaction unless the point is moot or its a drabble. Not required of course, it just helps start and build interactions!

✧ Note the plot is centralized to my characters and canons put under the v. main tag. Dash events, rpc happenings and the whathavs unless I say so otherwise are not canon and often put under the crack tag or untagged. Please dont assume anything from my muse or expect them to engage either as sadly I have to step away from the dash often and cant catch up. I prefer to have control over my narrative and if you want something outside included please plot with me!

✧ Think I missed you when ya followed? Just like my pinned post and Ill check you out but please dont harass me or ask to be mutuals following that. Sometimes there’s just no clear way for our writing, content or characters to interact and asking me to be mutuals puts me in an uncomfortable spot.

✧ The rules above are the most prominent but THE REST FALL UNDER GENERAL RP ETIQUETTE. Anything not listed but known should be adhered. But if you have any questions please feel free to send me an ask for clarification!

credits:

templates: header ,

PSD: spun sugar

icons: x

And hello! Im Leche, 30, Mexican Latinx, and first generation American. Im tired, gay, transmac but can’t stop rp'ing as a fun hobby

[furtho]

Detail of a gravestone, St Peter’s church, Heysham, Lancashire (via here)

[auraspheres]

He treated each kiss with such reverence. Sweet sovereign, his brilliant monarch -… he’d show his exaltion with every more hungry press of lips. Light nips met with breathy murmurs and an explorative slip of his tongue at the bottom of her lip. Her moan rolling between them made him push into her a little more - so badly he wanted to please her. The grandeur of her aura pulling him in. Swells of desire and deep compassion met with ardor.

Did this make you feel good? How about this? Anything to make her aglow with as much adoration as he felt. Even her explorative touches made more of an impression then any scar hiding beneath his shirt. Cynthia was curious but thoughtful to a body that knew no loving touch. It…really made him feel so much more renewed in his duty.

It was getting a little harder to not be swept away. Whatever moments happened passed quicker then he was consciously aware for. Their parting had him blink hazy after her. Cynthia would have her eyeful of a rather silly looking and infatuated Riley looking alert moments after that teasing, devious smile of hers. Oh…

Oh-!

Sheepish embarrassment coming back again at every button freed and more of her revealed. What a mink in guise of a goddess taking her time just to prolong this; take in his quickly reddening face until she was completely topless save for her bra that flattered her chest perfectly another thought he felt almost guilty for imagining. But more then that there was the wash of scars scattered around her silhouette. Some he acknowledged almost like old friends, others he hadn’t seen and some came with pinches of worry. What happened and where was he when it did?

All these accounted and unaccounted scars in due to their titles. They were sharing a moment of intimacy together but Sinnoh will always have them completely and at costs. Riley was especially no stranger. It was Cynthia’s note of surprise that caught him off guard when it was his turn to slip from his shirt. A blink. …What’s wrong? The excited thrum felt in the waves changed a moment. Guilt and regrets… Was this about his own scars? Oh Cynthia.

“ hey..” A mumble but he was smiling. He slipped a hand free to show the soft blue glow of his palms. Heal Pulse…there was no hurt he experienced that couldn’t be healed. Amazing how much the guardian body endures. There was no blow he wouldn’t take if it gave her and their home peace. As many as possible even. And all of this his choice. All of me, yours. Please take it. Her kind lips acknowledging old battle wounds was all he needed. Shuttering ebbing into warmth…until the weight shifting from his excitement beneath made him quirk with a breathy haah-. Fingers twitched.

“ Cynthia…?” Still a little meek and face beat red. “ Can I…touch you?” Not fair he hadn’t pay penitence to her own battles marked on her soft skin…and maybe wonder about the shape of her graceful silhouette. All guilty thoughts at some point.

[avacynthia]

Hey...

Riley's soft voice cuts through Cynthia's foggy reverie, and the champion slowly raises her head from his chest, eyes widening as she takes in the reassuring glow of the aura guardian's palms. Of course. How could she forget?

Cynthia has seen those tireless hands heal, mend, and perform countless small miracles. And yet, the innocent display never gets old. Riley's aura-wielding abilities still fascinate her, and--even now--Cynthia feels her heart flutter within her chest. She wastes little time reaching up to interlock their fingers together again, and the familiar contact is as comforting as it is electrifying. The champion can feel her tired shoulders slump with relaxation as the healing pulse is channeled unto her. (For a fleeting moment, all of her worries seem to phase out of existence at once...)

God. All this heated, overdue intimacy, coupled with the proximity of their bodies, is driving Cynthia over the edge. She's been patient. She's shown considerable restraint. But, as she looks up at Riley's flustered face, Cynthia's glittering gaze is clouded with lust.

Her knight's whispered question barely registers before she nods with silent approval, wordlessly sliding upwards to straddle his lap once again. Cynthia's hips grind hard against his own, and she can both feel and see his excitement growing as she gazes at Riley with that playful, confident grin quirking her lips, continuing to press down into him as deft fingers undo her bra, the straps falling away to the side...

Still, with the utmost care, Cynthia takes Riley's wrist and gently guides his hand to her breast, a quickened heartbeat thundering against his palm. This vulnerability, this openness--it's never come so naturally to her before. She shudders with need under the intimate touch, and a low groan rumbles from her throat. Please.

Blonde hair is swept aside as the champion leans over Riley's shoulder, her hips still moving, her mischievous free hand casually fiddling with the waistbands of their pants, undoing buttons and loosening belts. Her breath falls hot and ragged on the guardian's ear.

"...Yes, touch me. Make me feel good..." Cynthia half-whispers, half-hisses, her tone playfully demanding as she nips him on the lobe, urging him on. "...That's an order. You want to please me, don't you...?"

The champion's command lingers, yet remains light, teasing, and curious. After all, Cynthia is still trying to figure out this new, fascinating side of Riley, and perhaps a more direct, dominant approach would push all the right buttons...

[auraspheres]

.

It’s okay.’ Fingers locking between hers, the rush of energy passing forward and the relief soon after. Aura feels like a pulsing wave through the body; electrifying but not painful. Riley could very nearly map her centers from an excited heartbeat that made his flutter or the carnal want daring he lets go of what little modesty he had holding him back. Hips were grinding HARD on his erection; making him groan loud in his throat and hands having to find some steady anchor on her rocking hips. Goodness knows he could not stop an instinctive thrust forward to meet her. Look what you’re doing to me—

Cynthia had the most knowing smirk and twinkle in her eyes. She wanted no humility. The worried thoughts of how and if he was doing things right were drowned out by her brilliant confidence. He was smitten with her grace even in the subtle; the way she removes her bra with ease or the gentle pull of his hand to her bare breasts. Her quickening heartbeat and warmth right at his palms…- let him forever hold his moment in deep reverence. Nothing was more sacred or intimate then trust with her body. Every shutter, heartbeat and groan rolling in her throat was heard and exalted. ‘ I’m going to honor every inch of you.’

Hands didn’t idle a moment more. There was gentle squeezes, a thumb rolling over her nipple and thumbing of the tender soft skin of her areola. Warm, firm and just right for resting on his palms. Her waves continued to smolder in need. More. Please. When she dipped forward both hands reached to feel every notch behind; scars, shoulders and her spine running to the small of her back. Again they rested at her hips. His pants loose didn’t feel like it was helping the aching throb at all. Flushed, hot, needy and getting needier—teetering on an edge. Grinding hips met with his jolty rolls beneath them. He can’t take much more of this teasing—

I want to please you, I want to please you, I want to please you, I want-…you! Hushed commands and a nip at his ear brought down final resistance. A domineering push so he loomed over and Cynthia rested on the strewn about blanket. There was a moment of silence broken by heavy hot breaths…and then a blink. A hand gently swept her long bang away from her face.

“….Cynthia, you’re beautiful. ” Riley was forward but not forceful; her orders and her comfort was always first.

[avacynthia]

"Cynthia?" A hum in the quiet peace. He tilted his head with eyes still looking out at the horizon. " What do you imagine your future to be like...? After passing the title and responsibility as Sinnoh's champion that is and the opportunities are endless."

"My future? Hm..."

Cynthia strokes her chin, brow furrowed as she takes a minute to turn Riley's question over in her mind. As always, it feels like there's no rush between them here, seated together atop one of Iron Island's many crags. There's no wind today, and the rare Sinnohan sun makes the sea shimmer as it gently laps against the shoreline beneath them.

"Truthfully, I've never really thought of what comes after..." she muses quietly, wearing a rueful smile. "Just as it's unhealthy to dwell in the past, I've always believed that it's equally unhealthy to overprepare for the future. But, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to plan ahead a little..."

"...I think I'd want to settle down somewhere far away from fame. I'd have a huge library, I could explore and research without being pestered, and I could raise Pokemon and just...be surrounded by those who love me. Perhaps even a family." Cynthia tilts her head upwards to stare at the clouds, a wistful expression on her face. 'If that sounds cliché, that's because it is--I've read too many storybook endings by now. But...something like that sounds nice."

It's the ideal ending, but...Cynthia is lying to herself. And she knows that Riley can see right through her. (He is perhaps the only one who can understand how she feels. How heavy her burdens are, and how incredibly reluctant she is to just...drop them.)

Sinnoh is Cynthia's everything, and her deep connection to the region feels timeless, important, even necessary. Her needs and Sinnoh's needs are intertwined by this point, and a future unmoored from that responsibility...?

Deep down, it terrifies her. There's still so much work to be done--how could she possibly rest? (And on the other side, was she just going to work until the end? Was this truly a lifelong commitment?)

Not so long ago, Cynthia would have been fine with such a selfless outcome--but Riley has thrown a wrench into everything. For the first time, her knight is causing Cynthia to truly weigh her own needs versus Sinnoh's. (Was it okay to be a little selfish...?)

How ironic! The ascendant champion and the last aura guardian, finally realizing feelings for each other while Sinnoh looms over them both like a jealous mistress. What would become of them? How many more perfect moments would they share together, before their duties inevitably swept them away? And was a 'normal life'--whatever that was--even possible for them to live...?

The future is so uncertain and time is so fleeting. Cynthia blinks hard, and is mercifully taken back to this perfect present. She hasn't spoken for awhile.

"...What about you?" the champion whispers quietly, and her hand finds his, finding much-needed solace in Riley's touch, the reassuring warmth of his palm. She's been thinking of him more as of late, even as her schedule takes her far away, like a leaf blown on the wind.

If only moments like these could last forever.

[auraspheres]

“ …Plan? No.” Riley muses. His stillness gently breaks into a knowing smile and half lidded eyes. She’s right. It’s not good to dwell in either times. However- “You’re manifesting. Naturally the universes’ waves aligns with yours. If you truly and deeply desire it eventually the path is made so it may happen. Think about it. You wanted at the core of your being to be Sinnoh’s champion and here you are, oh my dear radiant Lady Cynthia. Try as I might’ve said I’d wanted to be champion too at our journeys beginnings in reality I truly desired to protect my home and loved ones. The Guardian pathway was my calling.

I think we ended up in just the right place in the end. We’re still manifesting what comes next. ” ‘If you really want it it’ll happen.’ A surprise lesson but not thoughtless. She says she wants to settle down but how much of that is real? And how much of it does she need to align still? Perhaps she can work like this until the end of days but…was that healthy? Was that really fulfilling? Especially when her vibes were still so stressed and terrible visions still trouble her. If that’s all she can see then a worrisome pathway is ahead made of her own accord.

But it is not his place to say. He’s only a guide…and also her concerned partner. The hand Cynthia slipped into his leans in to take her shoulder and bring her in closer instead.

“ My future? Keeping the guardian’s oath and continue to protect you and our home. It’s short-lived…and I accept that. Guardian’s are never done with their work until it takes them and my own ancestry has a tradition of ending shorter then that down to my father who gave his life in line of duty as you know. I can only hope I keep our calling and our arts alive before it happens. Maybe it’s ten years from now. Or maybe it’s tomorrow. I’m an aura adept, but I’m not psychic unfortunately. ”

He’s still smiling despite the grim response. Perhaps…Cynthia isn’t the only one who needs to reassess his pathway. Riley could not lie about it though. He’s far too brusque about anything to do with the Guardian ways. “ …But ideally? I wouldn’t mind settling somewhere comfortable and modest. Large open outdoor space away from buzz for my partners, potential students and I to train and meditate. Maybe even a field for some casual but intense battles. It’s quiet but Im not alone. I have the people I care about and love there. …Maybe even a family.” Hopefully she didn’t catch his eyes darting her way for a moment. The shade of his hat can hide his flush.

“ And I think…the true pathway is somewhere between.” Maybe…they didn’t have to sacrifice everything to Sinnoh. Neither was it a call to abandon a home and region they care deeply for either. Maybe it was Sinnoh that brought them together this whole time; the last of her ancient peoples ascended to reigna and the last aura guardian to station at her side. It couldn’t be coincidence.

…They could have both duty and want. Somehow. All these thoughts about his own wants and feelings besides being content with a short-lived martyrdom…she’s given him some new perspective. Oh how savvy of her. The usual.

He squeezes her a little closer.

‘ And my pathway has always aligned with you. ’

[auraspheres]

There's no one else he'd ever trust more with this and his comfort. He's not very savvy with intimacy. He'd pass by lovers bashfully noting their bright infectious auras all aglow in sparks. There was something so close and passionate felt in its waves that he had little reserve for. A lifestyle of meditation and training did little to help with that as did his very modest nature.

But perhaps it wasn't so far out of reach after all. He and Cynthia were close, as close as their bodies leaning into each other and as real as the weight of her hips straddling his. He thinks these feelings were always there if he didn't sweep them away as ardent respect instead. She was the champion; he was her civil servant. She justly captivated everyone in her brilliance; the grace of her figure...the clever glint in her captivating platinum eyes...or the curl of her lips when she smiles.

And especially the confidence in her smirk after every burning kiss on his neck. There was no hiding the breath hitched in his throat or the heat set ablaze from her lips now resting at a soft spot under his chin. Quite the farcry from that steely knight, wasn't he? If she could just tell there was a thrum in the room he was practically awash in their waves. The expression she'd spy was a giddy and besotted Riley barely contained and practically melting in her palm cradling his cheek. She tickled the tender locks of his hair.

" ......relax...? " Lost somewhere in her closeness and complete ardor. Probably even more so at the nip at his lip that elicited a sharp inhale and the fullness of her lips capturing his mouth.

Oh. oh...! These were the sparks he observed in lovers. A swell of complete avidity and vehement passion all rushing forward and pausing the moment all at once. This was...what he felt all along and couldn't pin it down. Strong burning desire when she was close and the quiet stillness that came right after she left. Eyes closed and he still see's the glow of their auras emanate--brighter so at her insistance The struggle to contain himself spiled out finally in a breathy moan when sensitive hair was pulled. Goosebumps trailed Cynthia's curious fingers beneath his black long sleeve that seemed really really uncomfortable all of a sudden...same as the slight tightness elsewhere.

" I...- " He had to settle for a second. The blue of his eyes had a glimmer to them basking in impassioned waves. Riled up so easily. He had to laugh at himself. " I think...someone really really likes me. "

' I think...Im getting it now. ' These feelings he's guarded himself against. Maybe not completely understood yet but he so wants to keep going...experience this way of expression despite how untried at all he may be. Dear Cynthia and her patience. No doubt had more excitable, experienced partners. Not to mention it was however long she took to convince the oh so steely aura guardian to rest his guard around a friend when he would not depart from her prestige. Riley stirs at her fingertips, lights up at her kiss and burns again at her breath tickling his ear.

' Show me how you feel. ' The thought doesn't go unheard. Riley leans forward to embrace her and bury his face in the crook of her neck. ...He really wants to get lost in her body's warmth, the sweetness of her perfume...or the hum of her laughter in her throat. Most of all get love-drunk on the swelling waves and intense aura sparks building in them besides the fire on a rainy night in Sinnoh.

' Ok. '

For you I'll try.

It was a much more confident attempt to kiss her this time. A moment paused in veneration before he catches her lips again...and again...and a bit more fervent with each pass caught with an excited breath or a hum. The hand not holding Cynthia against him had it pull hers further up his shirt to skirt muscle and faint scars beneath.

Remember to take the lead.

[avacynthia]

The howling Sinnohan storm protests bitterly from outside, but Cynthia doesn't hear the angry squall at all, doesn't even acknowledge it for a single second.

No. Within this electric moment, Riley may as well be her entire world, her sole focus. The champion's eyes glitter with fascination and want as her knight slowly begins to shed his metaphorical armor, personal desire and need finally beginning to inform his touch. (Cynthia feels the aura guardian's breath hot against her neck as he cradles her close with increasing confidence, and she burns.)

" I think...someone really really likes me. "

Even in this tender moment, the lighthearted banter between the two still flies, and Cynthia can't help but snort with quiet laughter at the auramancer's cheeky remark. She tilts her head towards Riley, blonde locks cascading again over one eye as she fixes him with a playful smirk. "Honestly...so observant as alwa-"

And then, with an unexpected suddenness, Riley cuts Cynthia's retort short with a kiss of his own.

God. Take the lead, indeed. Riley's unexpected, almost desperate touches cause Cynthia's breath to hitch in her throat, an approving, husky groan escaping her mouth as the guardian begins to take control. His needy kisses remain reverent, even as her teeth sneak nips at his bottom lip, silently egging him on. Pushing him further. Cynthia's curious fingers continue exploring under Riley's guiding hand, daring to glide lower, tracing paths across the taut muscle.

She could just melt right now. She feels like the cabin-flames, passionately jumping and crackling against the fireplace. Reignited and alive...

Cynthia allows a few more precious beats to pass before gently pulling back, coy silver appreciatively drinking in Riley's straddled figure as she blows hair away from her face. The blankets are tossed aside with uncharacteristic haste, and then...slowly, teasingly, she removes her jet-black casual top, fingers freeing each button at an agonizing pace until the fabric is shrugged loose, revealing a matching-colored bra underneath. Even in the shadowy firelight, one can see the scratches and small cuts marring her revealed skin, along with the longtime scar running across the length of her forearm.

Vulnerability, imperfection, and hidden costs. Heavy are the heads of those who wear the crown. Weary are the backs of those who choose to bear unseen burdens, like they have. (Riley should understand--perhaps better than anyone.)

Cynthia isn't done. Decisive as ever, a half-hum, half-growl of want rumbles from her throat as she pulls Riley's shirt up...and pauses, eyes widening slightly as she takes in her knight's muscular frame.

"Ah..."

The instinctual gasp leaves Cynthia before she can stop it, her gaze falling upon the numerous scars marking Riley's torso, some fresher than others. Some deeper than others. Honestly, she shouldn't have been so surprised--she's familiar with the nature of the aura guardian's station and work, after all--but here, displayed before her, was the hidden cost Riley had paid for his selfless watch thus far. (How many of these scars were caused by Galactic's invasion? Her failures as the leader of Sinnoh? Riley had always, always looked out for her...and how exactly had she repaid him...?)

Not now. Cynthia shakes her head, conflicted hands finding Riley again as she dips down and begins to dutifully plant careful, gentle kisses atop each of his scars--no matter how small. She can feel Riley stiffening beneath her as she slides her hips backwards, her touch trailing downwards as she continues her tender work.

Each brush of Cynthia's lips is rife with sympathy, care, appreciation. (And--as always--guilt.) Her feelings are whirling wildly in the heat of this moment, and she wordlessly wonders how Riley is feeling now, aching for some sign of his steadfast reassurance...

(After all, they have always cared for each other. Since forever.)

Thank you.

[auraspheres]

He treated each kiss with such reverence. Sweet sovereign, his brilliant monarch -… he’d show his exaltion with every more hungry press of lips. Light nips met with breathy murmurs and an explorative slip of his tongue at the bottom of her lip. Her moan rolling between them made him push into her a little more - so badly he wanted to please her. The grandeur of her aura pulling him in. Swells of desire and deep compassion met with ardor.

Did this make you feel good? How about this? Anything to make her aglow with as much adoration as he felt. Even her explorative touches made more of an impression then any scar hiding beneath his shirt. Cynthia was curious but thoughtful to a body that knew no loving touch. It…really made him feel so much more renewed in his duty.

It was getting a little harder to not be swept away. Whatever moments happened passed quicker then he was consciously aware for. Their parting had him blink hazy after her. Cynthia would have her eyeful of a rather silly looking and infatuated Riley looking alert moments after that teasing, devious smile of hers. Oh…

Oh-!

Sheepish embarrassment coming back again at every button freed and more of her revealed. What a mink in guise of a goddess taking her time just to prolong this; take in his quickly reddening face until she was completely topless save for her bra that flattered her chest perfectly another thought he felt almost guilty for imagining. But more then that there was the wash of scars scattered around her silhouette. Some he acknowledged almost like old friends, others he hadn’t seen and some came with pinches of worry. What happened and where was he when it did?

All these accounted and unaccounted scars in due to their titles. They were sharing a moment of intimacy together but Sinnoh will always have them completely and at costs. Riley was especially no stranger. It was Cynthia’s note of surprise that caught him off guard when it was his turn to slip from his shirt. A blink. …What’s wrong? The excited thrum felt in the waves changed a moment. Guilt and regrets… Was this about his own scars? Oh Cynthia.

“ hey..” A mumble but he was smiling. He slipped a hand free to show the soft blue glow of his palms. Heal Pulse…there was no hurt he experienced that couldn’t be healed. Amazing how much the guardian body endures. There was no blow he wouldn’t take if it gave her and their home peace. As many as possible even. And all of this his choice. All of me, yours. Please take it. Her kind lips acknowledging old battle wounds was all he needed. Shuttering ebbing into warmth…until the weight shifting from his excitement beneath made him quirk with a breathy haah-. Fingers twitched.

“ Cynthia…?” Still a little meek and face beat red. “ Can I…touch you?” Not fair he hadn’t pay penitence to her own battles marked on her soft skin…and maybe wonder about the shape of her graceful silhouette. All guilty thoughts at some point.

[controlledhues]

Hello, Riley. @auraspheres

[auraspheres]

[auraspheres]

Riley absolves you of your sins --

[weksey]

aura users take psychic damage in volo's presence

[embeccy]

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.

- Helen Keller

[xlivingproofx-deactivated202404]

I’m actually really fun once you get to know me (takes 3-4 years).

[auraspheres]

Volo asking N if he can speak to pokemon in reference to talking to god—

Riley is like,,,right there.

[metamorphesque]

"Two Phantoms", Vahan Teryan (translated by metamorphesque)

[beamingdesign]

find peace within the chaos (-> https://lnk.to/beaming)

[silver-frog]

Aujourd'hui, c'est grand bleu.

[auraspheres]

Examining others wants and needs came naturally. It was duty even. Born with the ability to feel, communicate and utilize their very life source his lineage honors it by a just cause. A guide and guardian to all. He can clearly see what burdens others carry and push them in the right direction. There's no greater purpose.

But his own needs and feelings? His own personal introspection? Well...not a focus. In fact if he pondered too deeply that steely veneer doesn't look so impenetrable. Anxiety over the aura-arts future, how fragile it all is and the traditional nature of a guardian's life expectancy. There's a reason he's the last; duty above preservation and his own bloodline made it shorter in thought. His ancestors down to his late father perished on duty but unlike them he had no legacy or heir to leave behind. The very last aura guardian ..

Fear gripped him momentarily and then Cynthia brought him back with her touch and kind gravitas. Fingers find their way to intertwine between hers and the tension rolls away. She speaks so highly of him that she forgets she's at the heart of it all. What was a knight without a champion to herald? What kind of person would he be if they never met?

" This old rock is no fancy vista in Undella Bay. " Riley piques again, lifting his face up to smile. " Give yourself credit. I wouldn't work so hard if it was anyone else but you from the moment we met. I wanted to prove I had the strength to match yours. Id be worthy as your competitor and your friendship. "

And more. He wants to be so much more. What's more?

" But Iron Island is home...especially when you're here. " With me. Their problems don't seem so bad when they're together. Does that mean something...? It thrummed like electricity and sparked something intense when her breath heated his neck. Riley squeezed her hands.

Duty above his own feelings. This desire and want is selfish-...but was it really if they both wanted it?

A heavy pause.

" ...More. " Let them have more. Out of all that they do for others they can at least have each other. Hands clinging to Cynthia's slipped away to raise her chin up towards him. In the moment Riley had leaned over very close...but just came short. He just realized he...doesn't know what he's doing. He's never-...well-

" ......Take the lead? " You guide me this time. As awkward as he'll ever be burning bright with flush even the firelight cant hide.

[avacynthia]

Riley's kind words continue to wash over her like a calming tide, and for a fleeting moment, Cynthia resigns herself to the fact that even this would be enough. After all, how could she ever find fault in a precious moment such as this--nestled against his comforting figure, just the two of them, thoroughly blanketed by the warm glow of the hearth? Even if Riley didn't want to push any further, she could still find satisfaction in stopping things here. Right...?

And then, a whispered invitation--vulnerable, but heartfelt all the same--tumbles quietly from the aura guardian's lips. More.

Cynthia can only glow upon hearing that one-word confession, returning Riley's nervous look with an encouraging grin of her own. Confident silver meets hesitant azure as they finally lock gazes again, Riley leaning over, and then...

Another pause upon the threshold of everything. Cynthia can tell that her knight is uncertain, unsure, his hands and breath trembling slightly as a flustered, almost guilty request is murmured into her ear.

And--with an understanding nod--she's more than happy to oblige him. This time, let me take care of you.

Cynthia dips her head and shifts position, blankets rustling as she turns and swings a leg over Riley to straddle his lap, her hips sinking into his own. Her hands push with a gentle firmness against the protector's sturdy chest and shoulders next, steadying them both as she leans over and begins to plant a trail of tantalizingly light kisses up the side of his neck. Cynthia is moving slowly to accommodate Riley, of course, but there's still a teasing edge to her attentiveness: felt in the way she pauses between kisses with a smirk, the way she hums against his skin, taking in his oh-so familiar scent of tea and earthy incense.

Her ascending touch pauses at his jawline, and then Cynthia pulls away, flipping blonde locks out her eyes as she drinks in Riley's expression. A low, quiet laugh rumbles from her chest, and one of her hands rises to cup his cheek, the other losing itself in the guardian's tangled hair. She leans in again while guiding him closer, until their foreheads are nearly touching and she can feel the heat radiating from his face. Cracks in his impenetrable armor.

"...You're burning up. Just relax," she murmurs. And before Riley can even comprehend her whispered instructions, Cynthia's captured his bottom lip between her teeth, pulling the knight into a passionate, long-overdue kiss.

Cynthia is no stranger to a lover's touch, but such past romances were so fleeting, so inconsequential in the grand scheme of things, at least in comparison to this. Something about this moment with Riley feels infinitely more real, so much more cathartic and important. Even as the thunder roars outside, Cynthia can only sense the subtle electricity thrumming throughout the cabin, her needy grip tightening in Riley's hair, her other free hand boldly slipping under the hem of his shirt, ever curious. Though still showing some impressive restraint, Cynthia remains firm and confident in her intentions. She knows what she wants. (For this moment never to end between them, time and space freezing themselves to accommodate--)

And yet, with great reluctance, the champion manages to break the kiss but not the spell, her eyes still twinkling with want as she checks in on Riley, brow furrowing as she scans her knight's flushed features. Ever caring, just as he would for her.

"How are you doing? Is this okay...?" she asks quietly, still somehow composed, fingers kneading gentle reassurances into his tightened shoulders. "Mmh. You still feel so tense--and what have you always told me? Live in the moment? Relax, let go, and embrace feelings as they come...?"

Laughing, Cynthia presses another light kiss to Riley's cheek, hushed voice hot in his ear. "It's still difficult for me too, you know--after all, I'm still under your training. But I think it's about time for my steadfast knight to follow his own advice for a change."

"We can always stop if you want, but..." (Another encouraging smile, accompanied with a hopeful look and squeeze of the shoulders.) "...just don't be afraid to let go, Riley. Not with me. I've got you, always, so...please?"

Maybe it's too selfish of her to ask him to open up like this. To shed the metaphorical armor he has worn for years, but still..

(Show me how you feel.)

[auraspheres]

There's no one else he'd ever trust more with this and his comfort. He's not very savvy with intimacy. He'd pass by lovers bashfully noting their bright infectious auras all aglow in sparks. There was something so close and passionate felt in its waves that he had little reserve for. A lifestyle of meditation and training did little to help with that as did his very modest nature.

But perhaps it wasn't so far out of reach after all. He and Cynthia were close, as close as their bodies leaning into each other and as real as the weight of her hips straddling his. He thinks these feelings were always there if he didn't sweep them away as ardent respect instead. She was the champion; he was her civil servant. She justly captivated everyone in her brilliance; the grace of her figure...the clever glint in her captivating platinum eyes...or the curl of her lips when she smiles.

And especially the confidence in her smirk after every burning kiss on his neck. There was no hiding the breath hitched in his throat or the heat set ablaze from her lips now resting at a soft spot under his chin. Quite the farcry from that steely knight, wasn't he? If she could just tell there was a thrum in the room he was practically awash in their waves. The expression she'd spy was a giddy and besotted Riley barely contained and practically melting in her palm cradling his cheek. She tickled the tender locks of his hair.

" ......relax...? " Lost somewhere in her closeness and complete ardor. Probably even more so at the nip at his lip that elicited a sharp inhale and the fullness of her lips capturing his mouth.

Oh. oh...! These were the sparks he observed in lovers. A swell of complete avidity and vehement passion all rushing forward and pausing the moment all at once. This was...what he felt all along and couldn't pin it down. Strong burning desire when she was close and the quiet stillness that came right after she left. Eyes closed and he still see's the glow of their auras emanate--brighter so at her insistance The struggle to contain himself spiled out finally in a breathy moan when sensitive hair was pulled. Goosebumps trailed Cynthia's curious fingers beneath his black long sleeve that seemed really really uncomfortable all of a sudden...same as the slight tightness elsewhere.

" I...- " He had to settle for a second. The blue of his eyes had a glimmer to them basking in impassioned waves. Riled up so easily. He had to laugh at himself. " I think...someone really really likes me. "

' I think...Im getting it now. ' These feelings he's guarded himself against. Maybe not completely understood yet but he so wants to keep going...experience this way of expression despite how untried at all he may be. Dear Cynthia and her patience. No doubt had more excitable, experienced partners. Not to mention it was however long she took to convince the oh so steely aura guardian to rest his guard around a friend when he would not depart from her prestige. Riley stirs at her fingertips, lights up at her kiss and burns again at her breath tickling his ear.

' Show me how you feel. ' The thought doesn't go unheard. Riley leans forward to embrace her and bury his face in the crook of her neck. ...He really wants to get lost in her body's warmth, the sweetness of her perfume...or the hum of her laughter in her throat. Most of all get love-drunk on the swelling waves and intense aura sparks building in them besides the fire on a rainy night in Sinnoh.

' Ok. '

For you I'll try.

It was a much more confident attempt to kiss her this time. A moment paused in veneration before he catches her lips again...and again...and a bit more fervent with each pass caught with an excited breath or a hum. The hand not holding Cynthia against him had it pull hers further up his shirt to skirt muscle and faint scars beneath.

Remember to take the lead.

[metamorphesque]

"A Shirt Made of Fire", Vardges Petrosyan (translated by metamorphesque)

[auraspheres]

@monterraverde x

" Stop. Please stop. " Struggling and fighting both. He was pretty competent in his strength but Rika was almost too easy to carry off. That wouldn't have ended well. Better some growling and curses. "It's not about if you can. It's about should you. Walking away from a loosing conflict is better then engaging in it. You'll only prove being gullible if you take the bait." A check back behind him made him sigh.

" They know it too. What was that about being more aware of the challenges you get into? I don't think this counts as 'centering'. "