wither underneath this storm.

40. Sea Life Sanctuary Owner. Professor.

[highly-functioning-frankenstein]

“Well… I supposed that’s it for the day.” Victor murmured happily, watching the revived butterfly flutter away. He’d been able to bring it back to life, and he knew it had partly been just because she’d been dead for mere seconds. She’d wandered into his lab and passed there and he’d seen it as a signal. But still, she was back, his new method had worked at least once now and that made him very happy. He felt his heart soar along with it as he saw it go, taking only a couple of pictures. He was surprised to see the person standing beside him. “Oh, I didn’t know there was anyone else here.” He commented, a little shocked. It was quite late and he wasn’t used to finding people at the university at this hour. 

[don-vitalis]

Don sighed tiredly as he put his keys back into his pocket; at odds with himself for having forgotten the papers that were now safely tucked inside his briefcase. Though he wasn’t particularly fond of having to stop himself mid-dinner to right his wrong and go all the way back to Ancora, he had to admit there was a certain charm to the dark, empty halls; he had been half his age the last time he appreciated such scenery. Don was decided to return home when the light of a room caught his eye, unable to go without making sure someone hadn’t just left it on, he went in. “Good evening. I apologize if I startled you.” He replied with a smile, relieved the light was serving a purpose; he had just caught a glimpse of a flying something. “Peace and quiet; the undoubted benefits of late hours. May I ask what is it I’m most certainly interrupting?” 

[don-vitalis]

clarissagrimhilde​:.

“I didn’t know that I’d be in the midst of someone kind today. Are you sure that you and Hades are related?” Clarissa was only kidding, of course. One look at Poseidon was enough for her to see the resemblance between the brothers. “I am not sure if this will change that but I think it does. It makes me wish that I went to this school.” Another joke, one that she probably should have kept to herself. She smiled as she watched how he treated her dog. “Thank you.”

“Quite certain.” That comment made him chuckle in spite of himself. “I’m afraid our similarities run deeper than I could ever attempt to identify myself.” Don let the reply fly over his head and softly frowned. “Here I was under the impression you did; what brings to Ancora? Aside from a sidetracked quest for my brother’s whereabouts, of course.” He asked with a small smile; he was genuinely surprised at the calmness of the puppy, letting her curiously sniff the objects on his desk. “Have you named her yet?”

[don-vitalis]

tinker-tessa​:.

Tessa opened her mouth to try and refute his comment about names but ended up being a little speechless, and just closed it again. “Oh, really, it’s my pleasure. You’re so nice in humoring me even after I attacked you with these noodle arms of mine.” She joked, laughing a little. As they walked towards the beach, she listened to him talk, chuckling at his reasoning for being here. The closer they got to the water, Tessa could feel the urge to just dive right into it. Though it pulled at her, she decided against it and instead continued to keep a calm composure. “Oh, um…” she thought to say something profound, meaningful, anything besides what came out of her mouth next, “…I’m not sure, honestly. It just felt like a day to come and enjoy time  where the water meets the land.” She looked down at her feet that were being covered and uncovered as the water gently splashed on her them, “Isn’t it crazy to think that this is the border of two different worlds? Two completely and the totally different universes right between our feet. How wild is that?”

“No harm done. I do appreciate the amicable conversation.” After having such a wonderful evening with Coco just the other day, his early routine had fallen a little too flat for his liking. Running into the girl had been a pleasant surprise that was very much needed. “A perfectly good reason. It is quite difficult to understand why not many people come here whenever it feels right to.” Though Don meant his words, he also had to admit he enjoyed having the beach not be full to the brim with people on most occasions; it was easier to enjoy the scenery when he could be alone with his thoughts. Also, he had way less explaining to do when he could move the water around him as he pleased. “I agree. It’s enchanting to think about.” Don bent down and neatly folded his suit pants up before going deeper into the water; there was a believability to be maintained if his clothes were going to be too dry after they left the beach. “The possibilities of connection the sea gifts us with are magnificent. Every opposite shore in the world– its seemingly unique species and the environments we may appreciate with a simple glance.” He looked at Tessa with a smile. “You’re quite correct about the universes below; even with what we’ve learned about the Marianas Trench, I don’t think we may ever be completely nor realistically capable of unearthing all of the mysteries that lie underneath.”

[don-vitalis]

tinker-tessa​:.

For a brief second, Tessa was at a loss for words, because she hadn’t expected the guy to give her that type of response. She took a second to admire his way with words, wishing she had that same strength. Maybe if she did, she could finally stop losing Peter time and time again. The sad thought was pushed from her head, though, at the mention of his name. “Poseidon Vitalis. Wow. What a name. It’s something. I don’t always get jealous of names…actually, I don’t think I ever have, but yours does make me jealous. I’m just Tessa. Nothing grand, but it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” She smiled softly and gave a little curtsy. “Thank you for humoring me, P.” She said, unaware she had accidentally given him a nickname, “So, what brings you out to the beach today? Surely it wasn’t the “Tessa is swinging her arms like a loon at the beach, so go get smacked by them.” memo.” She joked.

“Nothing worthy of causing jealousy. A name may only be as grand as the person behind it and you should be proud yours suits you well. Given this first impression, I’m positive you are more than just Tessa.” He offered with a sincere smile, the girl seemed remarkably good-natured. “Thank you for the invitation.” Don said through a small chuckle, not expecting nor disliking the nickname. “I’m afraid that memo must’ve been misplaced, I followed the “The Sun will politely not burn your corneas today” one.” He spoke as they finally made it to the water, Don couldn’t help but close his eyes and smile as the waves covered his ankles. “A long lunch hour and not remembering the last time I visited this place brings me here.” He replied calmly, looking back at Tessa. “How about you?”

[don-vitalis]

clarissagrimhilde​:.

“You should have that fixed unless you like random people entering your office, thinking that they’ll see your brother. Speaking of which, I am curious. Does being good-looking run in your blood?” It was not a question that Clarissa should ask someone she just talked to today but she was never shy to do so, why start being that way now? “You look like you want to carry her.” So she handed her little angel to the man.

“I am a firm believer in an open-door policy; if I can’t be of assistance, I would not hesitate to redirect said person to my brother’s domain.” Don shrugged with the tranquility of a man who had never given such idea much thought. “I wouldn’t know.” And that was all he could reply before he was being handed a small creature, Don immediately reached for the pet and carefully held her in his arms; scratch behind the ears included. “Well, I must say you made a wonderful decision.”

[don-vitalis]

cocoxrivera​:.

Coco smiled as soon as she heard Don’s voice, entertained by the fact that he could already tell it was her. Maybe it was the smell of the fresh bread she was bringing, or the fact that he knew she’d show up a little early for their date, but her heart swelled. Instinctively, she leaned into his hand, her smile softening. My love. “I did, actually.” Coco pressed a light kiss to his palm before she peeled back the towel covering the container. “I thought your employees might enjoy something fresher than fast food, and I had a morning to my self.” A smile grew on her face as she thought about how quickly they’d become comfortable with each other and those little touches–even on their first date it felt like they’d known each other for longer than they did. “We can drop this off, then you are all mine for the afternoon? I won’t take no for answer!”

The bread made the whole hall smell like heaven and his heart swelled with adoration for the woman in front of him. “A glorious gesture from your part, I’m sure they will be elated.” Don had never met someone so genuinely kind and selfless, Coco proved there were still good souls in this world. “Gabriel was right, you would make a better boss.” He grinned at the memory, every single person that worked at the Sanctuary loved having Coco around–  they also couldn’t let him off the hook about how much different he was acting nowadays. “I’m yours for as long as you’ll take me.” Don replied warmly, placing his hand on the small of her back so they could make their way to the employee lounge. “I wouldn’t dream of ever saying no to you. Actually, there is someone I would like you to meet, they arrived just an hour ago.”

[don-vitalis]

cocoxrivera​:.

“Classified, is it?” She looked up at him in time to see him wink, sending more butterflies around in her stomach. It had been a while since she’d been on first date, always too busy with work or too nervous to take that first step. However, Don seemed to draw her in so easily. Which is why she stopped walking as he did and turned to look up at him, giving him her full attention. Coco’s eyes dropped to the pocket square for a moment before she raised an eyebrow and giggled. “You’re asking for a lot of trust, Don.” She pulled her bottom lip between her teeth, then nodded and closed her eyes. “It’s already hard enough walking in heels, I’m trusting you to keep me steady, okay?”

That statement made his face break into a grin. “That’s a promise I intend to keep; well, any promise made to you.” Don carefully folded the piece of cloth before covering her eyes with it, making sure the knot wouldn’t be too tight around her head. “All set?” He asked while slightly waving his hand in front of the woman, hoping she wouldn’t be able to make anything out. “It’s only a few feet away, I’ll help you with the steps.” With that, he carefully draped his arm around her waist, leading her as gently but precisely as he could towards the place; what he said about the distance was true, the yacht was the second one in line. "We’re almost there.” Don explained, taking Coco’s hand without missing a beat, it was impossible for him to hide the excitement in his voice. “Two steps down– and we are done.” Once Coco was standing in the place, he reluctantly let go of her hand; staying behind her to finally untie the cloth around her eyes. “Delectable breakfast for the most exquisite company.” (x x)

[don-vitalis]

tinker-tessa​:.

“O-oh no! Don’t even worry about it.” She brightly replied, relieved she had not upset him. For a moment, she was thankful the breeze had blown a little bit of her hair across her cheeks because a light tint of pink had appeared out of embarrassment. “It’s my fault. I should probably be more aware of my surroundings before just spinning away.” She softly laughed, tucking a bit of hair behind her ear and looking out at the ocean. “It’s just a little hard sometimes not to get lost in the beauty of it."  She sighed dreamily. "If you don’t mind the company, would you like to dip your feet in the ocean with me?” She turned to face the male again, smiling.

“You can’t be near the ocean and not expect to be influenced by its untamed nature, even the breeze in an invitation to freedom.” He replied with genuine belief, allowing his own gaze to fall on the scene before them. “I agree, there is nothing in the world quite like it. We are all fortunate to live near a shore.” Don looked down at his bare feet and smiled. “Not at all, by the state of me it would be a contradiction not to join you. Poseidon Vitalis, pleased to meet you.” He nodded towards the girl, carefully leaving his belonging on a nearby stray log; as near as he was to the saline water, he could already feel the dull pain in his knees fading away.

[miloreed]

Costa Cove (Beach Day)

Tessa found herself enjoying her day away at the beach. She loved the feeling she got when she was there, being on the border of where the ocean meets the land felt like she had found another world on this earth. Above all, she loved the salty sea scent the beach brought, each gust of wind that gently blew and swirled the smell around her reminded her of simpler times, and she selfishly made sure to take in a deep breath of it. She closed her eyes as she felt another gentle gust coming, ready to twirl away with it when it did, and that’s precisely what she did. She spun around for a moment, but then ended up getting lost in the free feeling she was currently experiencing and twirled her way right into a fellow beach lover, or someone who was dragged by a friend, “Whoops! I’m so sorry about that!” She quickly apologized, turning to face the person she bumped into.”I guess I got a little carried away.” She softly giggled, offering a small apologetic smile.

[don-vitalis]

For once, Don wasn’t in a hurry to arrive at Ancora; he still had a couple of hours to spare before his next appointment and he really couldn’t place the last time he’d walked down the beach. Besides, he felt as if his powers were starting to resent him, nothing managed to settle him down– and them, more than being near the ocean. He walked over the smooth sand, shoes and socks in one hand as the other carefully manoeuvred his cane on the uneven surface; unfortunately, he had to stop and try to pry it free from a particularly moist spot of sand when– “No harm done.” Don replied calmly, confused as to why he hadn’t taken sooner notice of the girl. “If it counts for anything, it was not my intention to startle you either.”

[don-vitalis]

clarissagrimhilde‌:.

“You’re not Hades.”, Clarissa said out loud as the unfamiliar voice caused her to shift from her dog to him. “And I apparently entered the wrong room. Oh well.” She took a seat on the couch in his office because she was tired. “It was definitely a spur of the moment situation. How can a person leave this precious one?”

“In all fairness, the plaques on our doors do make our last name stand out; situations like this are bound to happen.” He watched Clarissa make herself comfortable in his office and figured he’d have to finish grading the papers later. “It would be impossible.” Don said as he looked at the puppy, he couldn’t help but smile, he’d never been able to have a dog. “Anyone would come back to retrieve her or regret their terrible choices.”

[don-vitalis]

@cocoxrivera​ “To be completely honest, I have been counting down the hours.” Don smiled brightly at the woman, even if the Sanctuary’s main hall was fairly long, there was no mistaking Coco. He’d been looking forward to spending the early afternoon with her– his girlfriend; no word had ever felt so marvelously fitting and delightful now that it came to her. “Did you have a good morning, my love?” He asked, his hand naturally drawn to Coco’s cheek.

[don-vitalis]

cocoxrivera‌:.

“There’s no such thing as too kind, Don,” she said with a soft smile, her blush starting to fade as she got more comfortable with him. After a moment, she realized she was staring and knew it was probably going to seem odd if she kept it up. So, she looked away, turning to watch the street and the people passing them, her hand still tucked into his arm. At his next words, she looked up at him. “Plans?” Coco’s soft smile grew wider as his words settled. “Then I guess I’ll just have to keep up with the compliments for longer. But I am curious as to where you’re taking me?”

He replied in a most casual voice. “Classified plans. I’m afraid you will have to be prepared for the unexpected.” He winked at Coco before following her lead and pretend to focus on the path ahead of them. His fingers lightly tapped on his cane’s handle as they moved past the crowds; up until that moment, Don hadn’t really grasped the convenient commodity of living in a place that could almost be an island– until he needed the docks to be at an amiable walking distance from the Marketplace. “I did promise you a delightful breakfast... not a conventional one.” He said as they made their way to the other side of the street; before they got any closer to the docks, Don stopped walking and turned towards Coco. “First plan requires for you to trust me and close your eyes for a moment.” As he talked, he removed his pocket square and extended it in his hands. “Would that be alright with you?”

[clarissagrimhilde]

“I paid a visit to the dog shelter earlier today and met this beauty. One look at her and I was already sure that she is the one for me.”

[don-vitalis]

“Delightful.” Though Poseidon did mean the compliment– he did had a soft spot for any animal; he was still fairly confused as to why the young lady had walked into his office to deliver the news. “Have you wanted a pet for long, or would you say it was a spur of the moment situation?”

[don-vitalis]

 cocoxrivera‌:.

She smiled widely at his words, honestly a bit shocked that he was so interested in doing something that was near to her heart. Coco was so shocked that, for a moment, she didn’t process what he had said. When she did, she was happy that she couldn’t blush any more than she already was. I’m enchanted by you. She thought over the words as they left the shop, worrying her bottom lip as they walked down the sidewalk. “That’s more than enough time for me to start complimenting you back. Like how much of a gentleman you are,” she said with a tiny giggle, her hand gently squeezing the arm it was resting on. “Or how I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone look so good in a suit, or how you always seem to know how to make me smile–should I keep going?”

“It is only fair. I aim to treat you the same way you’ve made me feel since we first met.” Don looked down and smiled at her hand; it was perfectly placed and the movement hit him with a small wave of familiarity he could only hope to hold on to or repeat as much as he could. “You’re being far too kind to me.” Though he knew Coco was one of the most warmhearted people he had ever met in his life, she took him by surprise as they strolled down the avenue; the smile on his face was still undeniable. He always tried his best to present himself in the most flattering light, that didn’t mean he was actually used to accepting whatever external positives may come off from it all. “I don’t pretend to discourage whatever it is you might want to tell me, all I can offer is– I may have plans to keep that smile on you for as long as you’ll let me.”

[don-vitalis]

hail-hades‌:.

“All circles of hell would freeze over before that. And they won’t. Believe me.” Hades replies, holding back a hiccup and drinking more instead. He rolled his eyes, knocking the rest of the drink. “Maybe it isn’t. But that doesn’t mean I’ll put up with it.” He stood up, leaving his empty glass at the table and slightly stumbling away. He moved as far as he trusted himself to move before risking a quick trip to the floor. He had had a lot more to drink than he’d originally thought. “Yes and unlike you I feel. I need to force others to unwillingly listen to my irritatingly self-important banter.” He grumbled intelligibly to himself, knowing there was not much more he could do in the state he was currently in.

The older man kept a neutral expression, though he did find it amusing that the statement was more of a fact than an exaggeration. “It’s only–” He forgot where he was going with his thought as he quickly turned on his stool, reaching out an arm as to make sure his brother wouldn’t tumble down. “Hades, please.” Don spoke with the softest voice he could muster, slowly retracting his hand as he prepared himself for the worst; it still didn’t stop him. “I won’t argue with you when it comes to me not deserving your company, I’m aware I don’t–” He cleared his throat, searching for his brother’s gaze as the only certain way he had to prove he could make one sort of point. “Have one drink with me, I’m sure we can handle as much; I’ll refrain from talking if it means we at least can keep each other company.” Don finished his sentence as the bartender placed new drinks on the bar. “If you’d rather not, I won’t press the subject.”

[don-vitalis]

cocoxrivera‌:.

“You’d really want to help me organize?” She giggled a bit, amused by the thought of him sitting with her to organize shoes and shipping information. The giggle stopped as soon as he raised her hand to his lips, causing her breath to hitch in her throat and a deep pink blush to dust her cheeks. Before she knew it, she was linking his arm through his and moving to the door. “You always say such wonderful things to me, if you aren’t careful, I’ll fall in love with you.” As if it was possible, she blushed deeper after realizing what she’d said and cursed herself as she looked down at her feet. “French food sounds great.”

“Of course. There’s nothing I would like more than being involved in such an important part of your life; with the added bonus of spending time with you, of course.” He replied, words full of sincerity. Coco’s words really did take him by surprise but, to be fair, it was not the first time his mind had circled around the subject. “Here I thought I was being more inconspicuous with my intentions.” Don smiled relaxedly, opening the door for her as they stepped out of the shop. “I’m enchanted by you.” The deep breath he took helped him ground himself into the wonderful atmosphere of that moment. “Beautiful weather, glorious company.” He looked at Coco. “I have always enjoyed our walks together. Our destination is only a few blocks away.”

[don-vitalis]

cocoxrivera‌:.

She glanced around at the boxes before her smile widens and she nods, looking up again. “I think I can put this off to go to breakfast with you.” Coco took his hand and helped herself up. Once she was standing, she let her hand linger, resting in his as she looked up at him. “Lead the way. I have to admit that I’ve missed you too. Home was awfully boring without being to see you.”

“I’ll be honored to help you organize after we are done.” Don’s voice was serene, completely antagonizing the leaping of his heart in his chest. “Your hand is cold.” He stated with a little smile, not wasting another moment to seize the opportunity; he brought Coco’s hand up, pressing a small kiss on the top. “The world is too quiet without you nearby.” He recited, excited to know that the sentiment was reciprocal. “My pleasure. I hope you’re in the mood for something French; I would love nothing more than to hear all about your time back home.” The man held his arm out to Coco, the gesture was quickly becoming second nature for him.