It Takes Courage to Love Oneself

🐍 Son of Stheno ❧ Bisexual | Male | Twenty Six - " The little serpent has left, and the great serpent has come. " Muqtada al Sadr - ❧ ouəɥʇS ɟo uoS 🐍

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

ourangelofwar

Having an actual good night of sleep was very beneficial for Rita, most of the time she’d go to sleep late and wake up late. Last night was different, she went to bed early and woke up on time. She had to have her beauty rest when meeting up with the one the only, Dorian. His style was noteworthy, and showed how similar he was to his partner Kol. Rita enjoyed Dorian’s style far more though.

Trying to figure out what to wear was the true struggle, she had to make sure that he didn’t dis her ideas of ‘fashion’, not that he’d do that anyways. He is a  very agreeable man who also has a killer sense of humor. She opened up her closet, looking for a comfortable, casual, and yet pretty looking outfit. A dark purple dress? No, the color didn’t suit her that much and she wasn’t in the mood for a dress. A light sky blue shirt with black leggings? Not that either, the weather seemed too cold to her.

She just couldn’t decide. She wasn’t the  best in picking outfits, especially since she felt that summer was only yesterday. She looked around in the deeper parts of her closet and found something nice. A normal white tank top to wear in case she heats up (which probably won’t happen) covered with a cool grey cable knit sweater that her younger sister gave her when she was eighteen. It actually surprised her to see that it still fit, it was extremely warm regardless.  A dark pair of jeans, cute pair of boots that go halfway up the calf and (her favorite) a beautiful infinity scarf that her mother gave to her a while back.

She checked over herself once, twice, even three times over in the mirror just to make sure it looked good. It seemed like an outfit that Dorian would approve of. Not too fancy, not too casual.

Now, she felt ready to get going. Grabbing a purse and a piece of paper with the clue on it she set off. If she remembered where his room was it would take no time at all. She made sure that she wasn’t distracted and wandered over to his dorm.

Knocking on the door she waited for a bit, hearing his response made her laugh a bit. As she said earlier, a great sense of humor.

As he opened the door and asked her if she wanted to come in she felt as if she had to reply with, “I’d love to. The weather is slightly cold and all.” She walked in and looked around. “Why hello Apophis, lovely to see you.” Turning to Dorian she said jokingly, ”Are you treating him well? I might have to kidnap him if not.” It wasn’t common knowledge that Rita loved snakes but Dorian was one of the few that knew.

“I think know exactly what the clue is, mainly because I’ve heard the riddle before.” She says with a glad tone of voice.

The demi-monster chuckled at her mock threat. “Oh I’m sure he’d love to go with you even if I were treating him like a king,” he teased as Apophis lifted his head out of the tank, begging for scratches. “He adores being pampered by people.”

He silently appraised her outfit as he moved to sit on his bed, nodding with approval. Simple, but it flattered her figure and probably kept her quite warm. “By the way, I love your scarf. Fashionable and practical, the perfect blend!” Dorian motioned behind him to his closet. “I have a few of my own but sometimes I prefer just a regular scarf I can tie in different knots.”

Ah, but they weren’t here to talk fashion. He had to remind himself of that. They were here to work!

“But I digress. You’re here for the riddle, not to get compliments on your outfit.” He pulled a notebook off the bedside table and snagged a pen before winking at her. “If you think the clue means a cigarette I think you’re right. The only other  thing Alan ever has in his pockets besides alcohol is something to smoke.” Chuckling, Dorian flipped open the notebook and began to scribbled down their ideas.

“Besides, it’s the only inanimate thing I can think of with an actual butt. Besides a gun, which isn't really used for fun anyway. The question becomes, if that’s truly what it is, where do we find it? I’m afraid I don’t smoke, and I doubt Alan would give us one of his packs.”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

@ourangelofwar

Having finished putting the final touches on his outfit (he’d dyed streaks into his hair for this!) Dorian winked kohl-lined eyes at his reflection. He looked stunning, if he did say so himself! He and Rita had spoken a couple of times in the past, and he enjoyed her unique sense of humor. For a child of Ares, she was rather level-headed. When they’d been partnered up for the scavenger hunt, the demi-monster had been delighted.

He just needed to look his best, and that wouldn’t happen without the snake ear-cuff his mother had given him. The piece of jewelry always brought him luck, and went fashionably with anything, so Dorian usually wore it whenever he needed an extra bit of confidence.

But somehow he seemed to have misplaced it! Digging about on his jewelry-strewn dresser, he frowned when he couldn’t see it. He’d left it in the little ring dish yesterday! Or at least, he thought he had. Pursing his lips, Dorian began sifting through the various rings, necklaces, bracelets, and so on that littered the wooden surface. It wouldn’t do to be late but he so wanted this adventure to go well.

After a few minutes of searching, he finally spotted the tell-tale silver curls and gemstone eyes of his cuff.

“A-ha! There you are!” Plucking up the errant piece of jewelry, Dorian quickly affixed it to his ear and stood up straight. Time to go meet his partner!

Of course, that was the moment he heard a firm knock on his door. Oops! Perhaps he took a bit longer than he thought getting ready...did Rita even know where his room was? With his luck it was Sophronia freaking out about what to wear to her meeting with Amethyst, even though he’d spent hours yesterday helping her decide on an outfit.

“Oh dear. To whomever is rap-rapping on my chamber door, I’ll be there in a moment!”

Giving one last critical look at his reflection, Dorian strode over to the door and pulled it open, his signature smile already plastered on his face. When he noticed who it was, it broadened into something more genuine. If a bit sheepish.

“Ah, Rita! So sorry to keep you waiting, munchkin, would you like to come in? My room is as good a place as any to discuss this clue and Apophis already nice and settled in his tank!”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

firesofflorence

She inclined her head when he guessed her name, “Indeed. Flynn is usually good about answering, but I’m sure he’s busy. My brother, although like me, chose not to follow this path, far to much of a pacifist. Instead he’s nestled up in the mountains with his… charming boyfriend and their small horde of children.” It wasn’t that she didn’t like Clarke, in fact he was one of her best friends, there just never any words accurate enough to describe him.

When Dorian held out the necklace, Florence felt her claw slid out involuntarily, digging small groves into the table. Part of her hated what gold did to her, the aptly named ‘sickness’ that was buried permanently in her blood. She had it just barely under her control, keeping her nails painted gold and keeping a small chest under her bed with a small amount of it.

Still. It was a gift. Slowly she reached out and trapped one of the links between two of her nails and pulled it back to wrap her fingers around it. The metal was warm in her hands, glinting entrancingly in the sun.

“Thank you.” She forced the hypnotized tone out of her voice and tore her eyes free to Dorian’s face, “I’ll repay you, if you’ll allow me to.” Maybe some good makeup. She could already think of a few eyeliners that would be a good addition to his arsenal

Pleased that his gift seemed to have been well received- if Florence’s hypnotized gaze was anything to go by- Dorian sat back in his chair and continued eating his salad. When she offered to repay him, he tilt his head and blinked, surprised.

“If you wish to you can,” he replied gently. A small smile lifted the corner of his mouth as he held her gaze. “Though it truly was a gift; I don’t actually require anything in return.” If he were being honest, Dorian was a bit curious what she might judge as suitable repayment for the necklace.

Deciding to let her do as she wished, the man turned the conversation back towards her family. “So your brother is also a demi-monster?” he asked softly. "I’d love to meet him as well one day, if he comes for a visit.” The urge to know that others were like him, even in a small way, always got the better of him. “What’s his family like?”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

oscarsvikkarman

Oscar listened to Dorian’s story silently, wishing he could find something to comfort him, “I’m sorry.” he said softly. Slowly, he let Apophis curl down off his arm to rejoin Dorian.

He took a deep breath and rubbed the back of his neck, “Scitz, well Evie was her real name, and her twin brother Zander were killed the same day I figured out who my dad was. They were quite the pair. Scitz buzzed her hair and  wore her leather jacket year round, while Zander was more…flamboyant with his clothing choice.We were just out walking, killing time before I had to go home and work when this girl started following  us. Scitz just said she was probably going to try and hit on me or Zander, although it would’ve been for nothing since we were dating. Something didn’t feel right to me, but the girl was gone the next time I looked back.”

Oscar had to pause to breath again, curling his arms around his knees, “WE had to split up a few minutes later at my mothers shop, the two of them going down a side alley to their house. Scitz came with me to grab something she’d left there earlier, and we was about to go inside when we heard screaming.” Breath in, breath out, “Zander was pinned against the alley wall by the girl, or what used to be the girl. She was an Empousa, waiting to isolate me, but she’d settled for Zander. She dropped him once she saw us, but Scitz gave chase. It was… too late for her brother. I stayed with him until he died, then followed Scitz.”

He didn’t want to remember the next part, but he forced himself to say it, “Scitz beat the Empousa to dust with her bare hands, but she’d gotten just as hurt. She’s lost so much blood and there were so many cuts on her stomach and her face that-” He broke off for a few seconds and closed his eyes, drowning the memory in silence, “She didn’t even care that she was dying. She just wanted to know about Zander. When I told her he’d died she… she told me she was sorry. Sorry for leaving me all alone.”

He opened his eyes again and looked at Dorian, “I swore I’d never let anything like that happen again.” Briefly he remembered the night Loren had burst into his room with Selene. Silence weighed down his tongue to stop him from saying anything else.

Counting to ten, to thirty, he finally spoke, “Do you like ice cream? I know a great place in town and I think we need something cheerful.”

Dorian shrugged, hugging Apophis close as Oscar placed the snake back into his arms. “No need to apologize, the fault was not yours,” he responded softly. He listened as Oscar told of his own past, heart aching for the beautiful young man sitting across from him. Why did everyone here have to go through so much pain?

To lose two people you loved in one day...all because of what you were? That would make even the best of individuals bitter. But Oscar...oh, kindness still radiated from the boy like the sunbeams he so often conjured. Knowing that a few sorrys would do nothing to heal this ache, Dorian offered comfort by simply listening. No judgement, no pity, just an understanding of what Oscar had been through.

“Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me,” the demi-monster said when the demi-god finally stopped speaking.

Silence reigned between them for a while after that, until Oscar looked back up and spoke in a tone that clearly stated the conversation was over. “Do you like ice cream?”

With an understanding smile, Dorian placed Apophis back down on his bed and nodded. “I love it. Lead the way!” They could both use a little cheering up that’s for sure. Pointing a finger at the ball python now curling into itself on his pillow, the man muttered a soft, “Behave yourself now!” before grabbing his coat.

“Lead the way, sunshine.”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

firesofflorence

At the sound of a smooth voice, Florence looked up. She was startled for a moment at the sight of Dorian, forgetting that there were other Demi-monsters at HBI for a brief second. Her eyes were drawn to the necklaces around his neck and the swirling patterns of his shirt, the gold calling out to her. She pushed down the urge. Florence was not going to steal from anyone at HBI. She had enough gold hidden away in her room to sate her need to create a horde.

Although it was really never enough.

She smiled, showing slight fangs, “The seat is not taken, I am waiting for my brother to text me back, actually.” She gestured towards the seat, “All yours… Dorian?” She vaguely remembers the name matching his face, but all the same she hopes she didn’t get it wrong, “Besides, its always nice to have someone like me to talk to. I don’t see many other Demi-monsters, aside from the Siren girl.”

Smiling happily, Dorian pulled out the chair across from Florence and sat down, spreading his breakfast neatly on the table. “That’s my name!” he agreed brightly. “And I believe you are Florence, yes? It’s a true pleasure to meet you at last. There are so few of us here, it’s a wonder we all haven’t met each other already.” Pulling two packets of dressing from his pocket, he proceeded to squeeze them over his salad before mixing it all together and taking a bite.

Mmm, delicious!

“As I don’t have siblings I’m afraid I can’t really relate to the frustration of waiting for them to reply to a text. Sophronia is quite prompt in her messages, so I rarely have to wait long myself.”

When he caught Florence staring at the multitude of necklaces he wore, Dorian chuckled and put his fork down, reaching to pull off one that had the most gold. “Would you like one?” He held it out to her, fingers loose around the delicate chain. “As you can see I have plenty more.”

To Dorian, if gifting something of his to another made that person happy, even for a bit, he would part with the object in a heartbeat. Despite his attachment to his jewelry, clothing, and makeup, they were a means to express himself as he truly was. Not what made him who he was. Dorian was still Dorian, even if those things were gone.

If that even made any sense. He was, after all, still a bit hungover.

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

kolstowellamour

“My makeup collection is extensive, I’m sure I could help. When I’m stressed I tend to sow. If you see clothing around our room that’s why. I do try to be clean but I need to see all of it laid out as I sow. Makes it easier.” Kol smiled to Dorian the other was nice and the two of them did seem to get along so far.

Kol smirked to Dorian at the mention of working out. “Oh I work out in other ways, it’s more pleasurable.” That and well they did enjoy it, a lot. Child of Aphrodite and what not.

Kol tilted their head looking to Dorian. “My company never dulls. But I think watching someone workout may not be the type of fun i’m looking for. But i’m sure we can find other ways to pass our time?”

“Oh word to the wise about your snake. Zelda has a no pet policy outside your dorm.”

Dorian clutched his chest dramatically, swooning backwards until the water lapped at his shoulders. “Oh, be still my heart! Offering me access to your makeup is a surefire way into my good graces.” He winked at Kol, chuckling when they mentioned other ways of working out. My my, such a flirt!

“I’ll bet,” he purred. “There are certainly more interesting ways to get sweaty than beating up a punching bag, as erotic as that can be made to sound.” Quirking a brow, Dorian smirked before continuing. “And there are definitely more ways to be creative with such an exercise than the usual training regime. I definitely agree that it’s more fun.”

When Kol mentioned Zelda, Dorian wrinkled his nose comically. “Yes, I’ve heard. He hardly leaves my room however, so we haven’t had a problem yet. It’s kind of hard for a snake that large to be ferried around campus. Though he does like to explore when I take him to visit my parents.”

He shurgged. “As for Zelda I can’t say I’ve interacted with her enough to form a solid opinion, but she seems like a lovely girl overall.” As an afterthought, he added, “Do you have any pets? I can’t imagine you’d like anything accidentally getting into your sewing supplies or messing up your half-finished outfits.”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

kolstowellamour

Kol beamed at the idea of designing someones wedding dress. “Maybe someday, although I doubt she’d regret it.” Kol laughed they prided themselves on being amazing and being perfect in all their designs.

“Of course she does she’d rather see him walk around naked than have him wear clothing. And the worse part is he would. I do hope you get the not so subtle meaning behind that statement. Because darling I’m more than willing to spell it out for you. But you didn’t hear it from me.” Kol smirked to Dorian leaning over.

“I admit to nothing.”

Kol watched Dorian swim it was almost as if he was fighting the water slightly. “The water god himself.” Kol mumbled, now it made sense.

“I take two hours in the bathroom.” Kol said not a hint of joking in their voice. “And I tend to go shopping even when I’m very broke. As for training… Well I hate to say it but I’d hate to break a nail.”

The cliche although true was a cliche for a reason. But Kol didn’t tend to fight. At all.

Dorian shuddered dramatically at the thought of a naked Ivan. “Oh, your implication is duly noted. Though honestly I’d prefer it if he stayed clothed.” He shrugged one golden shoulder, flicking wet hair out of his eyes. “Not my type, as you say.” He winked at Kol as he started to swim a lap, pleased that his suspicions about Ches and Ivan had been pretty much confirmed. Not even the blind could miss that!

“These lips are sealed,” the demi-monster promised. The water flowed awkwardly over his limbs, dragging at him, but years of practice kept Dorian swimming gracefully above water. He listened to Kol chatter as he tilt his head side to side to take breaths, smiling when they admit they took two hours in the bathroom.

Stopping his laps, the man swam over to Kol and propped his arms up onto the side of the pool so that his from shoulders he was out of the water. “I can’t judge, I take almost as much time myself. The worst is when I have a look all planned out but can’t find the last bit of makeup! So frustrating.”

He ticked off his own hobbies on his fingers, brow creased in concentration. “I adore shopping for gifts to give to others, especially if that person is feeling terrible. Dancing with Sophronia often helps me relax after a stressful day. Spending time with my snake, Apophis, just curled up and reading or playing a video game is always nice. Other than that I exercise often to keep my body fit and train whenever the mood strikes.”

Chuckling, Dorian tilt his head at Kol. “Which I guess is one thing that differs between us. We don’t have to spar or anything if you don’t want to,” he added. “On the other hand if you ever wish to watch me practice, you’re more than welcome. Even my own company gets dull sometimes.”

[letoshepard]

And one for my roleplay baby, Dorian!

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

oscarsvikkarman

“Root Beer would be lovely, I haven’t had one in ages.” Oscar bent to retrieve one from the fridge, careful not to disturb the snake around his shoulders, “Be careful with that offer! You might find me in here stealing them all.”

Oscar paused, “I never even thought about the toy story connection.” He let out a short, sputtering laugh, “God, Scitz would’ve loved that.”

Sinking cross-legged to the floor with his drink in hand and back pressed against Dorian’s bed, Oscar pursed his lips, “It’s not exactly something I keep secret, it’s been… three years now.” The realization stops him for a moment, “I should probably be more over it than I am. But it’s not the happiest story so I don’t want to burden you with it.”

He rubbed Apophis’ head, flexing the power in his chest to shift the colour of his scales from black and gold to a soft green dotted with grey flecks, “This is what I’m better at. Camouflage, tricks of the light, healing, those things. That’s my main job here, healing.” He released the illusion and took a sip of his soda.

Dorian snorted, amused.

“Honestly, you can steal as many as you want. I hate the stuff!” Taking another sip of his soda he continued on a more teasing note, “Though anything that has you coming back to visit is worth keeping around.  You’re very pleasant company.”

He joined Oscar over by the bed, deciding to plop down onto it with a graceful twirl, drink in one hand and one leg thrown over the other. Nursing it slowly, Dorian listened sadly to Oscar’s short explanation.

“If it’s any consolation,” he said softly, “I nearly killed my first girlfriend...” Glancing away, Dorian took a moment to breathe before continuing, his fingers tapping against the side of his leg in a nervous rhythm. He rarely told others this story, as it wasn’t something one liked to admit about themselves. So far, only Sophronia and his family knew about it.

“I hadn’t learned to fully control my second lids yet. There were times when they would simply retract without warning, or slide back and forth when I was tired and couldn’t quite muster the strength to hold them in place...” He paused again, biting his lower lip. “Her name was Gwen. We were in my room, just kissing, when things started to get a little...” he cleared his throat, “uh, heated...long story short, I got distracted and next thing I know she was looking into my eyes...my real eyes...and her body was turning slowly to stone.”

He sighed. “I didn’t notice at first...when I did, it was almost too late. Her legs, her arms, almost her entire lower body was encased. Thankfully my mother knew what to do and we managed to reverse most of the paralysis...but Gwen never did regain full feeling in her legs or hands. It’s hard for her to feel pain there, or much of anything else.”

Dorian gave a self-depreciating laugh. “I was only fifteen. Needless to say, she never spoke to me again after that...and I can’t blame her.” Needing the distraction, he watched as Oscar bent and twisted the light to change the coloring of Apophis’ scales.

The snake seemed both excited and confused, tongue darting out and head moving from Oscar to his own body and back again, as if to understand what the boy had done. “You look fine, pumpkin,” Dorian teased softly. He reached out to run a hand against the camouflaged scales, sighing.

“...healing is much more valuable than anything the rest of us do,” he whispered at last.

[firesofflorence]

Florence had never minded that she stood out. To her the gold eyes and glistening scales on her arms and neck was a sign to the world that she was there. She existed. 

And she was a traitor. A Pariah. An Exile. She’d heard them all. 

It was the only reason she was forced to stay at HBI year round, since having a dragon roaming free was a threat, even one that hadn’t touched meat since the her 14th birthday. 

Although food had been the reason Florence had ventured out of her room. Now she stabbed idly at the remains of the salad infront of her and stared at the back of her phone. Her long, clawlike fingernails tapped on the plywood table as she waited for it to buzz. 

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

Perhaps staying up half the night training and then drinking an entire bottle of wine hadn’t been the best idea. Tired and still half asleep, though thankfully without too much of a hangover, Dorian shuffled into the cafeteria, accompanied by the jingle of the numerous necklaces looped about his neck.

Despite his fatigue the demi-monster had put at least a little thought into his outfit for today, donning a maroon silk shirt with shimmering golden patterns and painting his nails to match. Tight black pants clung to his legs in all the right ways, and the boots he had on sported a bit of a heel. He’d only had the energy for some quick eyeliner and lipstick however when it came to makeup, and had barely styled his hair after getting out of the shower.

All in all, a tame look coming from him. Grabbing a salad, water, and a small turkey sandwich from the food stand, Dorian glanced about slowly for somewhere to sit. He didn’t feel much like walking all the way back to his room at the moment.

When his eyes landed upon a half-scaled form perched at one of the tables, fingernails tapping incessantly against the plywood, his abused mind perked up immediately.

He’d been meaning to talk to the new demi-monster for ages. Perhaps his binge drinking had been an act of the Fates! Balancing his food in one hand and drink in another Dorian made a slow beeline toward her table.

“This seat taken?” he asked idly. One corner of his mouth quirked up into the beginning of a smile. He inclined his head toward the girl’s phone. “Though if you’re waiting for confirmation from someone to join you I don’t mind looking elsewhere.”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

oscarsvikkarman

“Oh, you like being admired?” Oscar laughed, “I’d never had guessed, friend.” He turned his attention to the snake coiling up his arm, booping him gently on the nose with one glowing finger.

Oscar’s smile faltered, the light around him dimming for a brief moment before he forced happiness onto his features once more, “My… Boyfriend had two corn snakes.” He brought his cheek down to rest against Apophis’ head as he scratched under the snakes chin, “He named them Bonnie and Clyde, the little rascals. They had a habit of escaping their cage and hiding in his sisters boots.” He took a deep breath and pushed any emotions tied to their memories down, “But yes, I do know of at least two cats at HBI. Williams has a cat named Bucky Barnes and I believe that a child of Athena has a cat as well.”

He tugged his front lip under his teeth and focused on scratching Apophis’ scales, “No credit to me, I’m afraid. I’m not very good at Mist manipulation but I… Can’t fight.”

Sticking out his tongue at the joke, Dorian headed towards the small cooler he kept in the corner of the room. "One of my few weaknesses,” he admit with a theatrical roll of his eyes. “Now that you know it I insist that you exploit it at any available opportunity!”

After rummaging around in there for a moment he straightened back up with a can of soda in his hand. “Would you like a drink? I’d offer you something stronger than Pepsi but I’m afraid I drank all the wine last night. There’s also some Sprite or Root Beer in here too if you’d prefer. I only keep those for company so you can have as many as you’d like.”

He noticed Oscar’s smile dim when he mentioned his boyfriend, frowning as the boy bent down to place his head against Apophis’ while forcing happiness into his features. “They sound like a troublesome pair,” the demi-monster said carefully, “as if their namesakes would have it any other way. I’d make a Toy Story related joke about snakes in my boots but I have a feeling you’re not in the mood for laughing at the moment.”

When the boy’s voice suffused with more sadness upon downplaying his abilities for mist manipulation, Dorian huffed and Apophis pressed his head harder into Oscar’s hand in sympathy. “Sunshine, I can tell something’s bothering you. I understand if you don’t want to talk, especially to someone you’ve just met, but I need you to know I won’t judge or belittle you for what you have to say.”

He popped open his soda and took a quick sip, needing the caffeine to focus. “And who cares if you can’t fight? The only reason I’m any good is because I have built-in weapons I had to learn to control since I was a child. As for your manipulation abilities...the Mist is hard to control on the best of days.”

Apophis flicked his tongue in agreement.

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

kolstowellamour

“All I heard were old stories, we haven’t been anything but guards to the Crown in a long time. So sadly no stories.” Kol had heard a few secrets and been to a few exclusive parties. But the reality was they’d never betray the crown by telling someone the Crown’s secrets.

They nodded the gift was very nice and at least Dorian didn’t mind them not wearing it. And he seemed cool with their gender as well that was good. That would have been horrible had Dorian not been cool about their gender.

“I’ve worn togas and robes, the dress was a bit of an exception though. I loved wearing it and felt fine but I am masculine as well. It really depends on the day and how comfortable I feel in my own skin. But I have a fancy for wedding dresses and design those more often than not.” Kol chuckled slightly, they did love a good wedding dress. They were beautiful and everyone who saw it would be looking at the dress and how amazing it made the person look.

They smiled to Dorian it was always nice to hear other people tell them how amazing they are. “Fashion and beauty is in my blood I suppose. Ches and I joke that our mother would send us to fashion school if we didn’t dress to the nines.” Although if it came down to it Kol wouldn’t be mad if she signed them up for some fashion school, getting another person’s opinion was always nice.

“You can swim if you’d like I’m probably going to stay on the side. I don’t really want to style my hair again today.” Kol grinned to Dorian. They did spend a lot of time on their outer appearance, it was what people saw, so they did have to make it the best.

Dorian shrugged, chuckling. “Ah well. It’s enough knowing you knew them!”

He listened intently as Kol detailed their fashion habits, eagerly soaking up all the information provided. It wasn’t often he found someone as open minded as himself about clothing. “I’ll direct my darling Sophronia in your direction if she finds a girl to settle down with,” he suggested. “She’d love having a child of Aphrodite design her wedding outfit. Perhaps her wife’s as well, who knows?”

He tilt his head when Kol mentioned Ches. “Yes, she’s an interesting one. We haven’t talked much but I hear a lot about her around campus. Is it true she insists on attempting to break into Ivan’s room all the time? That can’t be healthy what with all those traps!”

Though he was enjoying sitting on the sidelines chatting, Dorian smiled eagerly when Kol gave the alright for him to head into the pool.

“Suit yourself,” Dorian said with a grin as he slid into the water. “I can’t fault you for wanting to keep your hair out of harm’s way. I‘ll try to see it as an opportunity to come up with a new style once I get out for the day.”

As always when he went swimming the demi-monster tried to ignore the slight pull that made him feel as if he didn’t belong. If he wanted to swim, dammit, he’d swim! Pose-I-can’t-keep-my-dick-to-myself-don could just deal with it. Huffing, Dorian took a moment to center himself before slipping down beneath the surface, getting thoroughly wet before popping back up and shaking his head.

Mm, he did enjoy the water once he got used to it. Wadding out further until he had to continually tread water, Dorian turned back toward Kol with a grin.

“What else do you normally do for fun, then, besides design? We should probably set up a day to get to know each others’ habits and strengths in the training area as well sometime. Life can’t be all fun and games all the time, though I make a damn good effort to keep it so!”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

oscarsvikkarman

“Ah, Dorian. Without you, who would be there to save us from evil and look so put together at the same time?” Oscar pressed a hand to his chest in a theatrical gesture, “We would’ve succumbed to the darkness long ago without you. Seriously though, we owe you guys a lot.”

His brown eyes swept Dorian’s room and he nodded in appreciation for his taste in furniture. The large tank at the back of the room caught his attention and a stab of homesickness rooted in his stomach. He missed his friends; Zander used to have two corn snakes and Scitz was a constant presence that had been torn from him. Although to see them again he’d have to go to Ari for help, and that he didn’t want to do.

When he saw Dorian’s python, he couldn’t help but light up, both literally and figuratively. As his face broke into a smile his skin took on the rosy glow it always did when he was happy, his eyes swirling streaks of amber.

“And he is precious indeed!” Oscar marveled, “I’d hate it if someone sat on me too, Apophis.” He stretched a hand out gingerly, “May I?”

“Of course,” Dorian answered as he allowed Apophis to slither down his arm and onto Oscar’s. The snake seemed interested in the glow that had started to suffuse the demi-god’s body, and his tongue flicked out in curiosity every so often as he wrapped his way up towards Oscar’s shoulders.

“He’s much like his owner in that he enjoys being admired. Do you have a lot of experience with snakes? Most people around here seem to prefer cats.” His eyes got all dreamy even as he sighed in despair. “Wonderful creatures, truly, but I’m rather allergic...makes handling them a bit difficult without a bunch of Benadryl in my system.”

Watching his pet nudge Oscar’s shoulder, looking for scratches, he laughed and continued. “As it were, I believe we were talking about saving the world earlier? We owe mist support a lot as well in that regard. Without you the mortal world would have devolved into panic a long time ago. But I do appreciate your confidence in my abilities!”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

kolstowellamour

Kol smiled seeing the others good mood at least this wasn’t awkward. They laughed hearing the others rates. “Honey I can’t even budget my spending let alone pay to gaze upon your face, you’ll make me more in debt than I already am,” They smirked.

He knew colors that was impressive. Not a lot of men liked purple let alone knew colors. “Testosterone ravaged beasts. If anyone needed to use perfume or be acquainted to better hygiene it was them. Although I’d like to say the crown did look fabulous more often than not.” Their family had once been advisers to the crown they lived next to the palace for a reason.

Kol chuckled seeing the scarf on Dorian. “Maybe not with those shorts, but it does look good.” Kol grinned to the other, with a better outfit Dorian could be stunning. His body was brilliant to design for, a lot of choices and colors that wouldn’t look good on others.

They beamed taking the present and opened it seeing cuff links and a tie clip. Oh, this was going to be an awkward conversation. “It’s beautiful, but I think i’ll never wear the tie clip.” Kol said looking to Dorian. “I don’t wear ties usually, I wore a dress to my brothers engagement party. But maybe it’ll catch my eye on a masculine day.”

Watching Dorian stare at the paper was not a very good sign. The laughter was and the fact that they’d have a full outfit to go with the shirt was even better.

“I’ll start on it right away then.”

“I designed my first official Dress at 12. But i’ve had a fascination with clothing for as long as I could remember. I insulted one of my school teachers because her hair looked horrid with her outfit.” Kol laughed looking to Dorian.

petrifyingreflection

The demi-monster laughed outright when Kol talked about his spending. “We wouldn’t want that now would we? Perhaps I can give you some kind of partner’s discount, help spare your wallet.”

When Kol mentioned the crown, Dorian admit it took him a moment to make the connection. “You knew the royal family? What were they like?” He leaned forward conspiratorially. “Any embarrassing stories you won’t be killed for sharing?”

He did so love hearing about other people’s secrets. He liked to collect them like other people collected seashells or stamps.

Rubbing the material of the scarf between his fingers, Dorian preened under the other’s compliment, pleased at the idea of having a new shirt in his future as well. He wrinkled his nose and waved his hand to dismiss Kol’s apologies about the tie clip however.

“No need to apologize,” he replied. “I never really use them either. Figured it was safer to go for a full set just in case though; I’m glad you like the links.” When Kol mentioned a dress he tilt his head in curiosity. “I’ll admit I’ve never worn a dress myself, but I have donned a couple of togas and robes in the past. I do love helping dress Sophronia in them though. They have the most delightful patterns!”

At the joke about Kol’s school teacher, Dorian chuckled. “I don’t think she much liked that. But the truth is the truth! I’m glad you decided to pursue that which you loved; your work is exquisite.”

Gesturing towards the water, he questioned, “Shall we go for a dip or no? It’s a lovely day for swimming.”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

oscarsvikkarman

Oscar mulled over Dorian’s words, “That’s a nice philosophy… If only more people thought like that.”

“I visit them whenever I can- thankfully specializing in the Mist gives me more free days that you field agents. I trust Collen to make sure nothing horrendous happens. And, make what you will of my father’s powers, but he visits me every day in a sense.” Oscar’s smile leaned more towards a smirk as he inclined his head towards the window, “My mother never remarried, or married at all I suppose, so it’s just her and Shanti I have to visit.”

The man rolled his eyes, “Please, I would never leave flowers in the halls! You’ve seen the people that run around this place, they’d trample them! Besides, it’s good lock picking practice.” He waved the words away like he was talking about the weather and not an act of breaking and entering.

For the brief moment their hands interlocked, Oscar gave Dorian’s hand a gentle squeeze, pouring as much light into his smile as he could. When Dorian dropped his hand he pulled it back easily. “There’s no arguing that I suppose. I wouldn’t want to break into someone elses room with flowers. Who knows what could happen?”

“As for scales, you’ll find no fear here.” Oscar shrugged, “Where I live you can find snakes and the like in the woods rather easily.” For a moment he was cast back to a sun bleached summer day he’d spent with a friend, collecting snakes in a big cardboard box to leave on the steps of her unlikable step-fathers house.

petrifyingreflection

Dorian felt the gentle squeeze against his hand and smiled sadly, turning to lead the way. He listened intently to his companion as they walked, his long legs carrying him effortlessly through the maze of corridors. They walked up a few flights of stairs, then down another set of hallways.

“Yes, hunting monsters doesn’t leave much time for socializing,” he admit as he rounded the final corner. “Whatever free moments we get are precious. But who else would help stem the vicious flood of evil attempting to destroy us and the world as we know it?”

Stopping in front of a large mahogany door with a brass number 6 over it, Dorian fished a key out of his pocket and turned it in the lock. “Here we are! My humble abode.” He waved his arms around with a flourish as he stepped inside, encompassing the wide bay windows, canopied bed, bookshelf, dresser and gigantic glass tank taking up all the space.

“The floor is clear but I’m afraid most of the counter and table tops are full. Feel free to sit anywhere, just make sure you look before you do or you might sit on...”

He trailed off as he felt something coil about his leg, beginning to move its way upwards with a soft slithering sound. “Ah! There you are pumpkin!” Reaching out a hand to help the serpent climb up toward his shoulders, Dorian turned back towards Oscar with a chuckle. “This is Apophis, my precious little baby boy. He’s the one you’d usually have to avoid sitting on. He does so hate it when guests do that”

Little was, of course, a relative term in relation to the snake now sitting placidly across the demi-monster’s shoulders, slit eyes staring intently at the newcomer. The ball python was a good six feet long, it’s powerful body covered in deep ebony scales interspersed with golden loops and spots, much like gold-veined black marble.

“He’s quite friendly,” Dorian said as he scratched the snake under it’s chin. “Though he gets grumpy when he’s hungry.”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

kolstowellamour

Dorian, they didn’t know a lot about Dorian, other than their parentage and their fashion sense. Oh and the horrible child sized age gap between them. They’d have to go stalk Zelda and Alan later about who decided that this was allowed. On the other hand, it could have been worse. Ivan was a force not to be tempted with.

They’d been making different designs of clothing to begin with and another fashionista was always a good model. When they didn’t tend to have their own inputs on design of course. Kol was the best, and that wasn’t an understatement, they’d been designing for years.

With the box and paper in hand they made their way to the pool to go meet their partner, Dorian. Hopefully this wouldn’t end up being horrible. “Am I allowed to gaze upon such a face or will I be turned to stone?” Kol teased as they joined Dorian sitting at the edge of the pool. They’d gone with a black shirt and light pink trunks today was not a very masculine day.

“Kol Stowell, child of Aphrodite, it’s a pleasure to meet you mate,” They smiled to Dorian. They grabbed the box and handed it to the other. “This is something for you. I hope you aren’t one of those Yanks that don’t enjoy purple or scarves. Oh, spoiler alert, it’s a purple knit scarf, should go well with your eyes though.”

They chuckled slightly and then opened up the folded piece of paper. They’d drawn a silk purple shirt with black snakes on it. Kol had been a bit inspired this morning, not everyone could wear a design nor find the humor in wearing such a thing. “I’d need your measurements, but this is also an option.” Kol said handing over the drawing.

Depending on Dorian’s next few moves this would decide how Kol proceeded. There were a lot of stories that went along with water. Although it was a bit funny Dorian chose the pool instead of somewhere far away from the god who’d cursed their lineage. It did make the other all that more interesting though.

petrifyingreflection

“Am I allowed to gaze upon such a face or will I be turned to stone?”

Dorian couldn’t help the smile that broke across his face, huffing a short laugh through his nose. That must be the infamous partner he was waiting for. At least they weren’t treating him like porcelain.

Some of his uncertainty began to fade away.

“Mmm, I’m not sure.”

Blinking to slip his second lids back into place, Dorian glanced over at his companion with a slow smirk.

“Can you afford it? Two drachmas per glance and five per gaze, upfront. Petrification is extra. A man’s got to earn a living after all.”

He gave Kol a cursory once-over, taking in the black shirt and bright pink swim trunks clinging to lean legs and thighs. Hair styled nicely, much like his own, even for a simple visit to the pool. They definitely knew how to make the most of their godly-given looks. Very nice.

And oh, what was this?

Dorian’s eyes caught the package being held out and he quirked a brow, intrigued. For him?

Very nice indeed.

“Purple is one of my favorites,” he admit, taking the package and placing it in his lap. “And as it has long been considered the color of royalty, it’s all the better that any testosterone-laden jackasses attempting to hold onto their fragile masculinity wont wear it. They don’t deserve it.”

He unwrapped the gift carefully, setting the wrapping paper aside and twining the scarf about his neck with a grin. Not exactly pool-appropriate but Dorian could never resist trying on new clothes. It was soft and supple, and felt good against his bare skin.

“What do you think, worthy of your creation?” the demi-monster asked, leaning back to look at Kol with a lazy smile. “I’d let you see if it truly matched my eyes but, well, I’ve been known to hypnotize with my dashing good looks.” He winked. “Dorian Li Yun, son of Stheno. The pleasure’s all mine.”

Stretching out his hand, the man pressed his own offering into his partner’s palm, taking the paper they held in exchange. “Now this is for you. Not homemade I’m afraid, but I hope you like it all the same.”

He’d debated for a while over what to get Kol, having never actually met the fellow before. In the end he’d settled for opal cuff-links, set in gold carved with intricate rose patterns, one of the many symbols for Aphrodite. A matching tie clip lay nestled among the bright red tissue paper as well.

Giving them a moment to open his present, Dorian glanced down at the paper he'd been given...and stared...and stared...

And couldn’t help the laugh, low and bright, that bubbled from his lips.

Oh, they were going to get along fine indeed!

“...I can have my measurements to you by this evening.”

He waved the paper under Kol’s nose, grinning.

“I’ll even have an entire outfit to go with this by tonight. Might I ask how long you have been designing?”

[petrifyingreflection-blog]

@kolstowellamour

Another assignment day come and gone, and for the first time in a good long while Dorian’s name had been called during the pairings.

He’d tried not to look too surprised when the headmaster had announced it, instead sitting a little taller in his seat and schooling his face into a neutral expression. He hadn’t had a partner in...far, far too long.

Kennedy Stowell, hmm?

That name rang quite a few bells.

Many of them stating that the individual in question preferred to be called Kol.

Eighteen years old, child of Aphrodite, multilingual, immigrated to the states from England after graduating from secondary school. Their fashion sense impressed even Dorian, and anyone who’d even glanced in the demi-monster’s direction knew he took clothing seriously.

At least they had that in common.

Now, everything else about them...Dorian wasn’t so sure. Kol’s reputation preceded them, but that wasn’t what made the demi-monster so unsure. Far be it for him to judge someone for flirting or having sex.

He couldn’t quite place his finger on why he was so unsure they would like him....

Not to mention they had an eight year age difference looming between them.

Marvelous...

Never-the-less, Dorian had sent around an invitation for Kol to meet him by the pool, and as a show of good faith decided to buy his new partner a gift as well.

And so he waited, lounging in his galaxy-print swim trunks, legs dangling in the water and shimmering golden eyes turned up towards the sky.

If his hand, laying protectively on the small wrapped parcel by his side, shivered slightly from nerves, Dorian wasn’t going to admit it.