I am the wind and the rain and the ceaseless sea.

Luck glistered from her hands, showered her in good deeds and greed. Dice danced in between her fingers, with a grin painting her crimson lips.

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

He should have very much expected her to not give in as he asked, not quite exactly. That would not be his mate, not Sayge. Not the woman aside him and never beneath. He had always said she was his match and with so much pride. Few understood, seeing only the elevation of his rank and that honour. Yet he knew it well. The only titles that mattered were the ones they blessed the other with. 

And so he watched her, watched every move knowing the intent. While he wanted to see the act of her lift the foolish drape that separated him from her longing, she, knowing, gave him more, pulled him in, bested his impatience even.  

He should yet feel pride still. His words, his promises, his desire brought such a reaction, such a deciding force. He smiled, arms freeing himself of the wretched robe then taking to the silken bed with his right knee. His arms lowered, hands capturing hold of her thighs. There were no more words, only his promises to be kept. 

He sat facing the elaborate mirror, attendant settling down the shears a top the vanity after rectifying the state of his locks. Hands oiled with the herb infused oil that smelled more of blooms and spices, the attendant returned to the his master’s head, passing the oil over his locks, gently passing his scalp. Then a golden brush passed over his head, smoothing every stand into place. Golden cuffs took to the points of his ears then his hair brushed back two pins securing it from his face. The two hairpins once secured only showed the two dragons coiled together. 

With a bow, Joui rose, moved to the mirror and turned to inspect his slightly shorter hair with a chuckle. There should be no way anyone should notice the difference but he knew someone would. He walked around the vanity and saw Sayge rising from an identical chair, before an identical vanity and mirror. She too inspected the adjusted ends, though her missing length hidden as much was wrapped and pinned a top her head, matching coiled dragon hair pins and golden flowers holding the dark locks there.  

It was as he requested. Suitable for the other item on their day’s reduced agenda.

The sun had moved from it’s highest position, the hours spent locked within their chambers. Even the robe, as he requested. The style preferable for the season. Sheer fabric hung off her shoulders, much of her back exposed. The fabric that faded between black and grey held its darkest hues over her bosom and down over her hips. The gown secured by bright red rubies, a crimson most fit for her. Over her hips the color faded again, becoming sheer down her legs.

His own robes matched the Ombre style, though his back was covered where his chest was not. Behind her, he smiled at her reflection, the large necklace at her neck, a dragon coiled around the slender fragrant skin, rubies with its scales and larger yet, one within its mouth. “I will never grow tired seeing you adorned so”, he said wrapping his arms around her. “I feel deep joy, as much as the first time you were with honour”, he said then kissed her jaw before stepping back as one of his junior butler’s walked in with one of hers. A quick bow he accepted with a nod before looking over his own reflection. 

“We have set your nook facing the south gardens for your meal, highness”, he said as Joui turned back to Sayge with a laugh. It was the third meal set that day yet the first they ate properly. “Come now, lest they cry from abandonment”, he said extending his hand.

Exquisite sheer fabric was hugging her figure, but nothing felt better than his arms wrapped around her. No clothes were softer. No golden flowers holding up her hair were more rewarding than the warmth of his skin against her own, even if it hadn't been long enough yet for her to begin and crave his touch.

Her hands rested on top of his, and so did her head against his chest. "Dragons wrapped around me suit me, and rubies compliment my complexion, but allow me to say, my love. It is your gold down my skin that graces me." Her unmarried attendants hid a blush behind their hands at the words said out loud by their mistress, with no shaking of her voice. Sayge welcomed his kiss, and she replied with a smile painted on her lips. She wished to ignore any distractions that would force them to leave their chambers, but her wishes were soon crushed by the junior butler -he, always so timely- the nod of Joui's head showed in the reflection was sufficient to know that a proper meal was due. Begone was her hunger.

If Sayge had laughed along with him, he could have heard her despair, so she swallowed it and took hold of his hand with a soft smile that said more than any word could have, accepting that some remaining sun was to kiss them. "Maybe they believe we would faint over missing a meal, but I will give to them that I am in fact thirsty, my dear."

They were escorted out, leaving behind the scent of his spices to rejoice in her lotus notes within the walls that once saw them celebrate. The blooming gardens had nothing to envy to the beauty of their chambers. Each step brought them closer to the tall columns with carved dragons that guarded a carefully set table. Her fingers lightly squeezed his affectionately, as the servants' heads bowed one by one as they passed. "Your highness, the meal is prepared. May I ask if there is something you would desire to be served first?" His junior butler asked while two other attendants pulled the chairs for them to sit. The gentle breeze fluttered her robe to dance along with the white fabric between the arches of the nook. Sayge's head lifted, as to speak first. "My eyes have caught some fruit. Sweetness, that I will have first."

Air had barely left her when her request was already completed, and the first to touch their table were two plates with various colorful fruits for them to enjoy. Delight soon came to her face and with a delicacy that almost perfectly concealed the hunger she had been ignoring in order to succumb and feed a more painful starvation.

"I have come to the realization, that maybe your highness has been distracting me all along," Sayge said while placing a piece of fruit into her mouth, the juices of the ripe pear giving her lips a glist that accompanied her next words after swallowing, "since early this morning you have spoken of a gift for me, yet my hands are empty and I have not walked through doors I have not crossed before." The sweet flavor of fruit had pleased her tongue, and her instinct told her she must share such pleasures with pleasure himself. Taking another slice of pear, she brought it to his mouth as if asking him for answers, but at the same, giving him time to find the words that would satisfy her, as much as pear did.

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

Haze had pushed into his gaze, desire growing, spreading through him and he knew there was no more containing it. It glazed his vison, painting all before him in a far more heightened, picturesque view. The petite being that honored him so as his mate, his love, had her way of burning a flame through him, centering her alone in his mind, gripping into him so their shared need alone held importance. And she did it with such smooth skill. He watched them drape her in the dark robe, an identical match to his own, gold vines tied to keep it closed around their bodies, hems decorated the same way and a resting dragon on their back. And yet,  all he thought of was how pointless the action was, because he was already removing it within his mind.

Her words sang through him, his eyes shifting for a moment as he smiled, locking the tone of her voice in his mind. And as her hand took to his own, leading him from the attendants, their hair untied, the accessories prepared untouched, he replayed the tone in his mind. How lust fell from each syllable as would every garment on her frame.

He said nothing as attendants fell upon their faces as they ascended to the main level, blush taking the faces of all who caught glimpse before surrendering with trembling. The hair still needed to be trimmed, and such free flowing without care was unfitting of their station, and such not for any eyes but their own. He simple let her lead him, squeezing her hand only and following her still. “Will you tremble when I settle beneath this robe, my love?” he asked as they walked. “Will you readily accept the offering from my lips till the prints of my hands be cemented into your thighs?” He asked again, his voice calm, eyes still hazy, lust stamped into his features, his smile a dangerous for warning. “Oh when I have tasted you to multiple ruptures and your thighs glisten,” he began then pulled her to turn, his arms lifting her to his mouth, hungry kisses taking her lips to his own. His eyes settled into shimmering gold and he gave his thoughts to her as his mouth made his intent clear.

The words travelled from his mind to her own as his arms pressed her against him.

 “Only then will I give myself to you. Only then will I be locked between your thighs, my love. Only when you are shaking and I have painted my need to redden your fair skin. I will have you cry my name with deeper impatience and need yet be fulfilled before we meet because I adore that hue of crimson best on your face.”

He set her down, hand in his, walking across the courtyard with more urgency. Passing younger clan members bowed as they moved hushed tones he cared not to decipher. The hedges that led into their private residence coming into view with the turn of a corner. Swifter steps led him into the garden, fountains trickling aside the path. Upon approach the doors were open, staff bowing as he turned to the stairs. He stopped and lifted her into his arms, mouth pressing into her own as he took the stairs, knowing the way without needing to look. Up the winding steps then down the hall, the bedroom doors were open and closed for them, staff readying to clear the level at the sight of their masters. For he had not looked at a single one. 

He says nothing but walks into the inner chambers and sets her at the end of their bed. Head tilting to the side, he loosens the robe letting it hang open loosely. Eyes golden he again speaks directly to her mind, his tongue touching his bottom lip, hair falling over his now exposed chest, “show me that impatience my love, raise this hem and let me see.”

He did not stop her, and a playful smile painted her features. There might be rules to follow, but giving in to the desire could almost be called a skill. As if lenient dragons would take away the restraint in their scales leaving behind only a lustful appetite.

If the slow passage of time had been a nuisance before, now the distance between the crystal baths and their private domain was gone in the blink of an eye. Fortune herself could not see or perceive the curious eyes that rested on them during their escape through the courtyard, nor the crown of any of the servants' heads as they bowed in the presence of the fugitives who owed explanations to no one.

All she could focus on was his strong hand holding her own, and the mischievous tone not hiding in his voice as he inquired about what was on her mind and what was going on under her skirt.

"You speak as if my knees were not already shaking," she said with sounds leaving her mouth. "your words filled with greed to find weakness in me and infuriate the fire in my loins. Beware, my love, for my wishes can burst into flames and burn. But—isn't that your intention?"

He would lift her feet from the ground again as he pleased, as for her steps were shorter, and with his long strides they would reach their bedchamber quicker, or so she thought. Perhaps it was only his impatience and craving to lock their lips together with no frivolous distractions like a stroll. No matter which of the two it was, Sayge was walking on air.

Her behind was settled in the softness of their shared bed, and all Sayge could see was the golden sparkle coming from his eyes and his eagerness to detach himself from the prison his clothes were. Her hands kept her from laying down and succumbing to the welcoming silk. His melodious voice resonated with a challenge and a touch of danger within her mind. Her agitation might scream from the depths of her being, nevertheless, the constant raising of her bosom as she tried to hold in her breath and her yearning, would not be enough spectacle to the man standing in front of her. He demanded more.

"Untouched, you have earned the glister kissing my skin." With a delicate movement, her hair found a place towards her back, thus revealing the sculpture of her clavicle and one or another drop of water that resisted abandoning her body. She so irresistible that not even a drop of water would accept defeat and evaporate. She flexed one of her legs to push herself further to the center of the bed, and consequently, the dark fabric of her robe slipped, revealing her porcelain skin but not the sheen. The crying of her desire, he would have to find himself. Kiss it better to ease the ignited sore. He was to blame.

Sayge pulled the string fastening her robe and lifted her body from the bed, kneeling, her weight sinking it slightly. The limits of the fabric barely contained the curves of her body, and the golden vines no longer hugged her waist, but instead, she placed it around his nape, to once again, drag him to her, with not much force since her heated body was magnetic enough to call Joui in.

She allowed her body to settle down again on the bed, Joui remained taller, so her eyes would still look up at his imposing figure. "This mate of yours who was unfairly punished with waiting, no longer wants, or better said, can no longer be deprived of being filled to suffocation. Be gentle for her, or rather, have no mercy."

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

His eyes did indeed stay affixed to her frame, shameless in his longing. Perhaps the testament of his superior will was more on display, for no full evidence was present, save his gaze. He knew the attendants present were ever amused, especially those who had many a time witnessed such longing before she was enthroned at his side. It had not changed. Time had not slowed his desire, proximity did not ruin his yearning, such could not be the love of an eternity if it did. 

Instead he found himself holding back his desire in these moments, yet incapable of looking away, not when each part of her body he knew the measure, the feel, and what careful caress would produce from her mouth. 

He watched her enter the waters and make her way to him, her body settling a top his, an act that turned the backs of the staff present. For they could not behold such a sight. Joui felt his smile stretch as his arms lifted, passing over her skin with a hum. And even as she spoke of his withheld offerings, the pleasure of her skin against his own pushed the hold of that superior will.

There, those waters, he could not taint with his passion, though he was certain some way to refresh them if he and his love could no longer contain their need. But, order prevailed, as it ever will, and he exhaled, arms locking around her still.

“Some chamber, no, my love”, he answered with a chuckle, happy to see her consider the possibilities. Yet there were so many. For there was nothing he could not give her, no reach he could not reach. “I suppose it would be the contents, yes?” he teased, even after discarding that possibility. Within the reaches of his mind, he hid the very image of his surprise, habit of his blood. Living among his most elevated elders, he ever did guard his thoughts. There was little surprise around those who could pull thoughts like strings.

“A hint?” he posed, right hand settling at the curve of her behind, left passing over her back. “No, you must discover yourself or wait to see it when we are dressed”, he said then sat forward, settling her body on his lap. His left hand lifted, tilting her head slowly before his lips took to her jaw, small kisses passing skin as he nuzzled. “If I release you from my grip once we return to our chambers”, he spoke softly, pulling back to let their eyes meet. “Soon really is not soon enough”, he gave in before his lips took to her own. 

His kiss was gentle but gave a clear picture of his desire, and the will that held back its fullness. He again reclined, using just enough force to ease her back with him, as his right hand passed over the supple flesh beneath the surface. Realization of his loosening will, eased him from her lips, and he stood, the sound, turning the attendants, two more descending the stairs with garments in hand.

He walked from the pool, whispering extended wishes of this soon coming fulfillment of his desire before setting her down at the landing. “We will have a small breakfast in the bedroom, something refreshing yet filling”, he ordered, as he stepped into his trousers then extended his arms for the robe to be placed over his frame. “But after I enjoy what order prevents me from enjoying here.”

His hands knew by heart the way down her body. It only required one touch for Sayge to remember why the world around her went silent once Joui was in front of her. As for he was the touch of auspicious gold to her crimson deep. He who evolved her scarlet. He whose brightness gave no chance to shadow, no space to doubt. A dragon with no need to dwell yet landing against her skin.

She could not help but tilt her head, water falling down her cheek. His vague answer not close enough to quiet her curiousity. "Contents..." She tasted the word in her mouth. The possibilities were unlimited, yet Joui would not narrow them to please her. "Contents of a chamber. My dear, I can only think of silk and your mouth against my flesh." She leaned closer as she perceive a kiss coming, and her voice tangled with his tongue. "May the odds be in my favor, for all that your presents have always made me smile, gasp or moan."

Sayge felt his stifle. His desire repressed as he parted his lips from hers, and even if she had tried, she couldn't hide her amusement at his struggling. Yet, as soon as he slipped through her fingers like a waterfall, the little voice in her head told her that maybe she should have bitten his lips harder and beat his sense of discipline, but just like him keeping his desire at bay, she had to lock up her urge to misbehave and drag him down with her. She knew better.

"Are you certain the Zuihuo do not possess the hold of time?" Her voice came out after her feet touched the ground and soft fabric hugged her body faster than she could speak. "Minutes seem endless when you don't hold me. My wicked love, not only have you defeated me and slaughtered my hair this morning, but you also have teased me long enough." Sayge's want and need to get her way was pushed by her lover more than any of them could handle.

Her gaze could be easily read by him, and if his wish was to see further, a peek through her mind would show him, how he would not be allowed out of their chambers, not after they were fed. Not even for him to share his surprise with her... Unless his secret could deal with her insatiable hunger.

As soon as their bodies were covered at his command, Sayge's feet took her close to him, and her hasty flee kicked up a breeze that playfully slid her robe off her shoulder. Her dark eyes met his, and she almost could see his own glister gold at her sight. "Better feed me right and fill me up, or you might not get my touch of fortune later." She pulled of his arm, if she’d have to drag him she would, he could not stop her. Who would dare to stop her.

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

His smile deepened, his steps relaxed as he wondered just which she wanted most first. And as he posed the question to his thoughts, he knew well. Both. For in Sayge, he nurtured a monster. Spoiled, indulged, his sweet beloved, his perfect mate. Her will challenged him more the more he gave to her wishes, pushed him to be her more perfect mate. 

His eyes wondered to her from the gardens before him, watched her hold her words before another tone continued. His smile gave fruit to a chuckle, passing his lips as his eyes moved to the hedges that discretely blended the steps down to the underground natural bath. 

Slowly they descended the stairs, winding around the natural curvature of the crystals and stone. His eyes passed to the bowed attendants greeting them before they returned to their duties. Soft strings danced through the air, bouncing off the crystals lightly. The larger part of their staff did not descend with him, more duties taking them elsewhere. Her hand still in his, he walked down the secondary steps stopping at the two tables and pair of bath attendants. Full bows received he released her to them, though his eyes never moved from her. 

His own attendants took to his side, gentle hands beginning to remove the garments from his body. A noted pause produced another chuckle from his lips. “My Lord, your hair,” one worded softly.

“And our Jui Hi’s as well”, another continued. 

“Sacrifice to our traditions”, he answered knowing some elder would have questions worded not as questions. A nod was given as she passed before him, lifting the garments over his shoulders. Joui loosened his own trousers then stepping from them, then his shoes, walking to where she was undressed to pass his hand over her bare shoulder then toward the shallow pool. Once in, another attendant passed aside him, taking three steps higher to then pour water over his body, another appeared as his jug emptied, more water passing over him as he turned to watch Sayge take her space beside him. 

As he watched the same happen to her, his skin was scrubbed, cloth with mild abrasion passing his skin, cleansing the sweat and sand. The cloth smelled of herbs and a touch of honey. His hands raised, fingers tips passing over her own skin, a soft look of reprimand but amusement taking the features of Sayge’s attendant. An understanding of his love took the expression of the woman. Joui’s own softened as he turned then lifted his left leg, soles of his feet scrubbed.

His eyes took to her own as her hair was held while her back scrubbed, her pale skin calling his eyes lower for a moment. He hummed to the soft tune as his eyes returned to her own while another attendant rose higher to meet his scalp. His hands passed over his scalp cleansing gently, moving the solution through his locks, Joui tilting his head back gently. “How I desire to empty this space my love”, he breathed as water poured over him again, rinsing the scrub from his body. “Soon”, he promised as he allowed his hair to be rinsed as well. Slowly he walked from the shallow pool, his finger passing her hip as he walked and she turned, his attendants carefully leading him to the larger pool. Down the crystal stairs he entered the warm waters, turning to watch her while moving the edge, a towel place under his neck so he he could recline.

"Sacrifice to our traditions." He said, and a smile crossed Sayge's face as she looked down to conceal it, her cut lock of hair standing out from the rest. The gasps of the attendants were just a reminder that perhaps they might be seen around the estate with their hair up for some time, or maybe not. The daring and beautiful acts of two not afraid of a raveling scold blamed on sharpness.

Subtle rays of light came through the rock, announcing how the sun was slowly reaching a higher point in the sky and painting the waters with new colors. The hands of others did what she wished they could have done themselves, on their own. Fabrics were removed from their bodies, and she caught Joui's eyes on her as one fair, delicate foot dipped into the small pool.

Two women helped Sayge to find her place and crystal clear water fell down her shoulders, softly caressing her skin and taking with it the dust and glistening sweat from the duel. Sweet honey almost tasted from the aroma clinging onto the cloth scrubbed against the back of her head. The carefulness of the attendants to not redden the body of their lady in the presence of him. She, as precious as jade.

"Soon is never soon enough," Sayge said as a statement, her tone making it seem as if a chuckle would come out of her lips, but no chuckle came. "As the amount of time in your soon is oddly longer than mine." The woman's patience, or better said, the lack of patience preceded her, but yet she was not complaining. It was the eagerness taking over her tongue. "My words might speak of greed, but your eyes yell louder, my love."

Hair was rinsed, and if a sound came out of her lover, water covered it up more than enough for Sayge to follow Joui's touch and delve into the depths of the underground tarn without a protest. Inch by inch, her body submerged in the water, and she slowly found her way close to him. With light fingers, she accommodated a strand of rebel hair falling uneven across his face, and Sayge would not let a rebel hide the handsomeness of his face, not to her. "As I have no option but to wait for those two things you are keeping from me, may I have a hint of what is to surprise me?" And as if it were a magnet that attracted her to him, Sayge's hands found their place on top of the towel protecting his nape, her body delicately resting on his.

She hummed, and her eyes moved from his face up to the roof of the cave. Putting together what has been said to her before so Joui might share and feed her hungry curiosity. "Places off-limits for me. Grant me one of those." She pointed out the brief information he allowed her to know. And she guessed. "Perhaps you have built some sort of chamber for your loving Saaka." Quickly she shook her head, her wet hair staying in place. "Why would a chamber be a surprise." She landed her eyes back on his features. "One hint, enlighten me some more."

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

His not quite jest reaped desired fruit, the play of his rank above her own. Never had he commanded her with his station, never having forced his will to her action by the honour of his birth. There was never a need, never an earnest desire that was outside of her own. They had ever walked the same path. And yet she returned the jest, granting his selfish wish all while wording their promise of eternity.

There was peace there. Holding her to him, her attention matching his affection, even with four score and more within their presence. 

They would not leave them no, he knew well. Even if the wish was to see only the other, it would not be granted. Not until a destination was given to take them to, a place to prepare, a task to be accomplished.

His arms lowered under her thighs, securing his grip on her as a smooth chuckle passed his lips. “They will not disappear so easily, I know well”, he said remembering the years of plans and escapes, many of such taking him to her and they were still close behind. He shifted his hands underneath her at the completion of her tease, propelling her inches upward before falling back to his grip. His forehead pressed then against her own, eyes holding her gaze. “I will test that resolve over the curve of your hips”, he whispered then sealed it with a kiss.

He could not read the members of her staff but wondered if this was repeated joke shared between her and they, grown as she settled into the structure of a High Fae household. It was a question for another moment, he thought then set her feet to the ground.

“Rise”, he ordered the many ears around them. “We will cleanse in the under crystal baths”, he began watching the eyes rise then widen, then quickly attempt to compose themselves. His smile stretched knowing it was the state of their hair. 

“My Lord”, Uzuki began then paused, eyes fixed to the missing centimeters of hair.

“Clear our day, and I do not want to hear what will be tossed aside, for nothing of greater importance comes to mind”, he said passing his hand over Sayge’s jaw. “It reminds me, there is something I must show you. Think my love,” he began thumb tipping her chin back, “There are few places off limit to you here. I will offer one such place to you today. After we no longer smell of sweat and sand.”

His grip felt safe as if he would never let her fall. Still, his words only confirmed what she already thought. There was no way they would let them go as she wished, not so. There always was someone close by, fervently waiting to serve them if necessary. Even if they thought themselves unheard, deaf ears in the shadows would catch their whispers and words of love.

Sayge let go of a sigh, but it was cut short as her body was —if possible— closer to his. The warmth of his skin against her forehead and a smile flourished and was eaten by a kiss. No answer needed to his remark, she would make him live by his words, and leave traces all over her skin.

No longer floating in the air and standing by his side. Sayge did not move an inch away, her hands running down Joui's arm, finding his palm and linking their fingers together, knotted in a mess of anticipation. If blood could boil, Joui would feel hers through her skin. Long locks of hair made contact with him as the Fae rested her head on his side as he referred to others, she herself, enjoying the look in their faces at the sight of their master's untidy presentation.

When her mate spoke, Sayge lost herself in his words, perhaps it was his tone, or how even if giving orders, Joui remained serene. A quality she noticed over the years, but after finding her home under his roof, his serenity became more evident, and little by little, his calmness entangled to her. His soft touch elevated her gaze to meet his, and her eyes became narrow. "Something to show me?" Sayge hummed and pulled his arm, curiosity taking over her. "You have awakened two very different things in me, my love. And I no longer know to which one I want you to attend first." Her feet moved, forcing the tall man to walk along with her, and as not knowing where the something was, she could only move towards the direction of crystalline waters, leaving the butlers behind, as if they would.

Sayge tsked her tongue. "How mean of you, knowing patience is not my best friend. To tease me like this, and make me feel as if I could choose what to do first," her hair swayed behind her, as her body showed her impatience, "when you well know we must wash before—" she stopped herself from rambling and remembered to keep her composure, yet Sayge never hid any side of her from him.

"Bold, Zenjenkou, today you have left our bed feeling daring." She said, only noticing for how long she had reprimanded her beloved when their walk concluded and reached the second stop of that satisfying morning. Still holding his strong hand, Sayge found support on him while leading down the stairs. Light trespassing the walls of rock and caressing the blue waters waiting for them at the bottom. Blessed by nature and the delight a bath could give to those worthy of it.

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

“I will never lessen your worth in assuming you cannot dodge a blade”, he spoke to what he wanted to deem an exaggeration but was a possibility, just not for her. Not his mate. Not his Jui Hi. The wait and yearning to stand proudly aside her was not just for the promise of their youth and love, no. She was his match, a firm conclusion in his mind. And if he was trained to dodge very real weapons of death in a sea of illusionary ones and live, he knew so was she. For in her was defiance and ambition, roaring eternally.

And this was not their first nor last meeting upon the sands. The traditions of their kin they would ever observe and pass on, for that too lived within them.

And with symmetry in her eyes he puled his blade forward and watch the strands of hair fall to their feet. He then looked to her eyes again before his blade went behind him, head lowering to seal his penance with a kiss. At her lips he breathed peace then eased back, returning his blade to its sheath and to his side. 

Both hands then took to her side lifting her to his eye level while holding her to his chest. Again he kissed her, slower, more paced than the first, all the while ignoring the shifting shadows beyond the partition. The sun was rising, and with it their schedules and all who awaited their presence. Yet he remained unmoved, happy locked away from all else. That partition an immovable separator between the two and their staff. 

“Will you rush off to the casinos this morning?” he asked though very much selfishly devising a scheme to free her of those duties along with is own. “Or shall we wonder down to the crystal baths while we have breakfast prepared to your taste?” He kissed the corner of her mouth, humming. “I cannot very well keep us on this hollowed ground for much longer but I have no desire to see your butlers point to your agenda, taking you away from me. Not this morning”, he said walking toward the partition. Around it, he sighed. On both stairs leading down was his senior butler and army of staff, the other, her senior butler and her own army of staff. 

Bowed heads offered formal greetings, the sound echoing down stairs, noting the presence of those unseen. Yet had not placed her down, small kisses instead meeting her lips, and had no intention to give them rise till she agreed. “As your lord”, he began with a grin, “I have need of you and do not ask me till when. Fuck this day and all written down in schedule”, he said and could feel Uzuki and his junior butlers twitch. “Today, give it all to me.”

His blade glinted with the first rays of light cutting through the clouds, and with a single movement, his hair paid the price for them to be even. The same sword that had ended their duel now sealed a penance, but a kiss went further than steel.

The touch of his lips melted with hers. He had devoured the words that were about to speak of the sorrow over the damage caused to the beauty his mane has always been. And perhaps, the chuckle fighting to come up at the sight of his uneven hair, just like hers, no longer upset over his risky attempt to challenge her. This not being the first kiss they shared that morning, but each of them felt like an eternity wasn't long enough. Her hands found the perfect place behind his neck, and as if magic itself had held Sayge in its arms, her feet left the firm ground, leaving his scattered hair behind, and with it, the bitter taste of losing.

Her attention was on him, but the anticipation of an army at the other side of the partition seemed to get louder, and as soon as she saw those standing on the stairs, she hid her face on him, as his words were still leaving his mouth. Once her beloved had finished, she spoke, with no wish to interrupt him, who was taking her closer to the sky. "If my lord said so, then my place to be is in between your arms and nowhere else. The dice will land on the velvet, whether I am there or not." Not a thousand butlers could make her leave his side when he had asked, or better said, demanded her to ignore any other and give her unshared luck to him.

Sayge placed a lingering kiss on the delicate skin up to his jaw, and her fingers found their way to tangle on his locks. "Not only will I give you this day, but all those that follow until the world burns without our presence." She let a soft sigh escape her and pulled his uncut hair, asking for his words to be a command so that even the last soul would disappear from her sight once her feet hit the ground if he wished it that way.

"If they are gone when I count up to three, then I will let you make me your schedule, my love." She whispered, not to prevent being heard by others, as never had that been an impediment before, and the shadows had witnessed their unwavering adoration that only grew, but because she knew him, and what the warm air caressing his ear could do to the High Fae, but mostly, because it pleased her. "But if they don't, then I'll unsheathe your sword to end up in them, which it couldn't do to me.”

[saygeko]

ara-kadeu​:

Ara’s smile, though true, was small as she welcomed her friend to her side. “I did not give the order to stop.” She said simply, eyes turning back to who should have been the star of this particular lesson. The elementalist in question had enough good sense to look resigned and apologetic under her gaze. “Actually, you’re providing an excellent opportunity to practice the first lesson they were taught. And for that, we thank you.”

She kept her tone even, hiding away the disappointment she’d felt at the initial failure. The corners of her mouth remaining slightly upturned. “In any of the theatres along this block,” The Ace made eye contact with each of her students as she addressed them, ensuring that they took her words to heart. “especially at The Palace, you will encounter at least one of the greatest challenges an actor can face: beautiful people in all their fineries, or people who have such natural charisma that it simply radiates from them, drawing the attentions of all near by. Or, as is our case today,” Ara’s smile widens briefly as she looks towards Sayge. “someone who possess both.” 

Turning back to her students, grateful that all eyes snapped back to her as she did so, Ara continued. “But those challenges are a part of the job description. So.” A soft clap of her hands, “What’s an actor to do, hm?“ She fanned her arms open, signaling that anyone could answer her question. Movement drew her eyes to the student still standing. She gave them a small nod, encouraging the answer. 

“Get it back.”

Ara’s head bobbed in a deep nod, a soft, “Correct.” escaping her lips. “It doesn’t matter what a patron is wearing, or how they look, or how popular they are. Your job, as an actor, is to remind your audience whom they are there to see. The ability to stand on that stage in nothing but rags and be fully in command of the attentions of a sold out auditorium is the mark of a good actor.” 

She paused to let the words, the lesson they’d already been taught, sink in. One of the younger girls, sitting in the semi circle before them, met Ara’s eyes with a question. The Ace dipped her head slightly to the side, allowing the girl the space to ask. “Is that not the mark of a great actor?” 

Ara smiled softly and shook her head, her tone even softer as she answered, “A great actor rarely has to compete.”

She turned her attentions back towards the still standing elementalist. “Let’s not disappoint our guest. Take a deep breath, clear your nerves. And start again- from the beginning, if you please.” 

And they did. With a near perfect pace and dictation, the elementalist performed a tragic scene: The monolog of a person descending into madness, going through several emotional stages as they realize what’s happening to them. Despair, justification, jaded anger, acceptance in a gothic romance sort of way- all culminating in a frantic, desperate plea to regain the sanity they’d already lost. 

A chorus of emphatic applause erupted as they finished the scene, lead by the proud instructor herself. “Excellently done, Tuuli! You should be very, very proud of that performance.”

A few more words of praise, a couple of words of advice on how to turn near perfect into perfection, and a reminder of the topic of next week’s lesson, and Ara dismissed the class. As the students all filed out of the main room to gather their things in the foyer, Ara turned her full attention to Sayge. Her arms opened to give the woman a proper greeting, accompanied with a wide smile and “Please, do me a favor and don’t tell your mate what you saw today. With Lana teething again, I really don’t think I have the energy to deal with anyone else’s tantrums.”

To be thanked for her presence alone pleased Sayge. As having her witness a lesson should be —and was— a blessing, no other eyes would be worthy of it, or perhaps only her mate's were at the same level, but now with no High Fae ears close, then no one else would.

The gaze of many on her when Ara's speech, full of flattery and true, described the Fae as one who would drag attention from the most skilled actor in a stage by the mere act of being under the same roof. She heard the woman talk and finish her lesson, not interrupting or stealing the light of a tutor sharing her wisdom in a field where few were as experienced. And the one trying to demonstrate their ability and not even reaching their teacher's ankles received a small ovation, but not from Sayge, not completely satisfied and expecting more. Perhaps Ara had raised her expectation to a place the young could not yet accomplish.

With open arms, she was welcomed, but Sayge only reached Ara's hands, giving them a soft squeeze. "Oh, I am not sorry to tell you, but Joui is not hearing the end of this, for I can already hear his words of jealousy tonight." Sayge hid her soft chuckle behind the back of her hand in an attempt to not let a loud crackle leave her mouth, amused at the thought of Joui's face when hearing of her visit to the studio. "I may even take a souvenir home." She let her words slip with ease, comfortable with the presence of Ara and no one else in the room. "If it's of any help, both of us will be hearing his tantrums."

Sayge and Ara were different. Different species, born in two different planes, with hundreds of years in between them. Contrasting personalities and roles. One with the power of the wind, the other with luck in her hands. Yet they had one thing in common, they were both blessed with the gift of giving birth. Each one experienced the happiness of holding in their arms, against the warmth of their bosom, a child of their own flesh.

"Lana is still so young..." Her tone spoke about her reminiscence of her son. Izayoi, now a man in the eyes of humans but still a youngling next to her kin. Time had never felt so different before, and Ara's small remark brought Sayge the bitter taste of parting. How lucky was the elementist to never have to let go of her daughter's hand, or how cursed was to wake up in the middle of the night at the cry of a child.

"Does medicine help with her teething? Perhaps I could find some for her, something safe enough for your little one, of course." Her fingers played with the hem of her red sleeves, not realizing how her body gave her away. Arms empty, screaming to hold her son once more. Even if he was almost as tall as his father now, and Lana could fall to her knees if she ran too fast.

Not cursed. Blessed, her friend was blessed.

As if she had noticed how the weight in her heart had made her voice sound different, Sayge attempted to withdraw her attention from herself and move it to the actress. Her eyes quickly wandered around the cloud colored walls, admiring the grandeur of the place. "I am in awe of what you have accomplished. As I can only assume this has been a big step in your short span of life" She stopped for a moment to add. "Haven't you been touched by good fortune?" A small grin crossed her lips since Ara was indeed under a starry sky when looked from afar, but the Heart had the eyes of gold right behind her.

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

The mask served well to hide his smile as he claimed victory in her bow, and then returning the honour in his own. Their final bow to the passing of their traditions ended their duel freeing him from his mask and sealed lips. And yet his beloved had held her words.  He looked at her moving ahead of him toward the stairs, hair following the flow of her frame. There he saw the damage of his blade. He closed the space between, arms going around her from behind her, his mask in his left hand held the ceremonial mask, right locking over the left forearm keeping her in place.

“Now now, my love”, he said softly leaning down to her cheek. “I cannot let you begin this day with this emotion painted across your face and smeared within your mind,” His eyes looked to the shadows coming from behind the high columns and shrubbery. While their duel was theirs alone, their staff was never far. They had awaited, unable to step one foot unto the platform while they were masked.

Eagerly they awaited the two stepping past the threshold so reports could be made and the day could begin. Both had their duties to perform, for their businesses and then for the roles they held within the household, all that was scheduled and made to be kept. He knew this. He always had a team waiting to usher him from one place to another. 

“Should I not have sent my blade to your head?” he teased raising and turning her to face him, a soft smile on his lips. “Did you think I knew you could not dodge it?” He asked then lifted her chin higher with his right hand. “You and I”, he breathed then moved his hand into her hair.  “And your hair”, he said lifting the cut strands standing apart from the rest of her length.

He eased her away, freeing the pins in his hair, hooking his mask in his belt then unsheathed his blade, eyes returning to her as his own long locks fell around him. He ran his hand from root to end then extended a section of his hair, blade held up, eyeing the size of the portion missing from her. “Saaka, you and I”, he repeated knowing she remembered the words he said to her beneath his ancestral tree. 

Sayge felt his warm touch in places where his cold blades had kissed before as he claimed victory, and nothing else could be done. His whispering words caressed her ear, seeking her attention and perhaps her forgiveness, for her well-being was damaged by his own hands, but even worse, he had taken a win by luck from luck herself.

"If there is something painted across my face, then the one with the brush in hand is you, my darling." Her small frame was turned, and her eyes raised to meet his own. The smile pulling of his lips, even if soft, only spoke of his pleasure in winning to his mate, and she knew that smile had been with him from the beginning, even behind his mask.

To her, there was no other soul near them. It was only him and her. Being surrounded by people waiting to serve them became easier as time passed after they promised eternity with more than words but with crimson hugging them. No shadow or steps coming close could break her focus on his gaze locked with hers. "If I had not dodged, there would be more than a few strands of hair missing from me. Lucky you, I was born skilled. Lucky you, your opponent in the sand was me." Her hand followed his, as his long dark hair went through his fingers, and she held his palm, the one holding the sword.

His motions speaking of his intentions; paying penance to her by losing the same she had. Sayge had not asked for a price to gain her smile back, but his offering made her lips blossom, and a grin erased the unhappiness. Not because her defeat would be turned around but because he would not let her day be tainted with loss. He wouldn't let Sayge's frown be her companion until the sun set again.

Kiss it better.

"You and I, Zenjenkou. You and I, even with an inch less falling down our backs." She said, accepting to take his hair as an offering for not only cutting hers but for almost taking her last breathe. Yet, not quite close to cutting luck short.

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

Hair hair.

But there was no time to mourn the loss of any piece of her, not then. Not when the morning sky was brightening and their limit approaching. Dodging his attack, and her hair falling to the sharpness of his very real sword, should have given him another moment of her unbalance, her weighing where he would be. But the real sword gave him away, and her answer was sending it back to him. He smiled as the cry of his blade was turned on him, sword meeting it, trajectory changing enough for him to grab its hilt again. She answered well, he noted, even then awed by all she was.

Hidden smiles held his gaze to her, as his clones converged. As the approached his his mana charged, then dispersed as the clones vanished, the release meant to disorient her. 

The rays of the suns arrival pushed in over the courtyard and he moved, propelling his body as the remaining clones converged at once. Inspired by her own movement he leapt, using the mana release then appeared before her, one long sword pointed down at her neck, the other blade at her side. 

His eyes met hers beneath the mask, beneath the menacing figure, gold fading into hazel as the sun’s rays reached the sand. That ended their match and his blades lowered to his side, feet stepping back two paces. One last bit of tradition needed to be done before their masks could be removed and he was free to repent for her hair. 

In a blink of an eye, the illusion disappeared, and the army of many became one High Fae. One who had dodged another attack.

His swords barely keeping from touching her skin, and as the sun announced the end of the duel, Sayge saw her defeat in front of her. No time left to revoke the outcome. Her mate took the victory with threads of hair hugging his blades.

Two steps back, and standing in the light of victory, he looked more golden than ever. Sayge bowed in an act of respect, following tradition, admitting she had lost to his swords and the wonder his illusions were. He did too, letting her see the crown of his head. And like a mirror of each other, they walked from the sand, a third bow witnessed by the dueling ground, but this time to honor the blessing given to them.

Once everything had ended and carrying the weight of being second best, Sayge removed the mask covering her features, the mark of annoyance written all over her face. The length of her locks was not even anymore. No word left her mouth, and the hair that was still attached to her danced with the wind as her body turned, and her back faced her lover. Not fond of losing and wordless of congratulations, her feet moved away from him. Her reaction, screaming her annoyance and unhappiness. This is not being the first time that her luck was not in her favor, and his had blinded even the sun.

The sky might not have seen her rejoice in glory that morning, but there was always another day to fight eternity and win.

[saygeko]

death; failure

Death: What does your muse consider the worst way to die?

Not being able to give herself to the land because she is away, would have been the first thing crossing Sayge's head before. Now, she could think of other things that would pain her more. Dying away from her son, or dying after her family does -Joui and their child(dren)-

To die of a broken heart.

Failure: Has your muse ever given up on an important dream?

She has not. Her own vision of herself and why she was born evolved. Her idea of carrying her clan's name changed over time. Perhaps some would think she has let her ambition sleep and rested on her now new family and let them eat her, but on the contrary, once her eyes opened, she saw what she was born to become, and she was perfect for it.

[saygeko]

Fire: Would your muse rather be very cold, or very hot?

Fire: Would your muse rather be very cold, or very hot?

Sayge has no preference over these, but because of the lack of mana in Kadeu, she feels more at ease with the warmer days, when there's no worry over the weather being a reason to get sick, also the population is less likely to carry a disease when it's hot. Yet she would choose the weather the Fae realm can offer a thousand times, as it should be no surprise, everything is better at the other side of the portal.

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

Her movement warned and refused to allow any thought of gentleness or withholding strength for who she was. She was trained, balancing her feet as she walked, the sand spreading so lightly under her feet, only by pressure. And he had heard her movement upon the sand before, witnessed the ceremonial mask of her choice before, and guarded against that beast before. That whip was no toy, no substitute for the real item that stayed at her side. One slice of that whip and he would do more than bleed, it would ache. It would sap his very mana, weakening him profoundly. 

He knew that pain well and the sound it made when it made contact with flesh, victory ringing out as blood and mana fell from him. For she was trained, and trained without mercy.

Ah, what a beauty, he couldn’t help but think. Mesmerizing with her agent of death. Her stance, her responding to his tricks with her own, what a blessing the mask was, concealing the grin that stretched from ear to ear. 

He eased back but kept his eyes on her, ever unable to look away, watching her energy lifting her, dazzled again, too dazzled. The whip wailed as it came for his ankles and he rose, feet pushing the sand away to narrowly escape harm, watching where that weapon bounced back. Watching, he released his first cast, his image splitting into three perfectly identical clones. The one to his left went straight for her, the center and right, moving to the right, watching her reaction to the assualt. Then he held the hilt of his long sword steading before tossing it her way. 

The blade cut through the morning air right for her head and he watched, knowing however she dodged it, for she would, she must. She ever his match could wield it back at him, indeed, but whatever the action, it would place her before he and his clones, and there they would settle this. 

A duel was a duel, even between Joui and Sayge, neither of them minimizing their abilities just because the light in the other's eyes was the one holding the weaponry used against them. Surrender out of fear or love, an insult. Their pride laid on a sword and whip, their love, on who pushed harder.

And there it was, the trick. Not just one lover, but four, and each of them challenging her. His illusion, taking over her vision. The image of her beloved, charming as it had always been, was now standing in front of her, as if it were a small army, confusing her for half a second. A second long enough to bring a grin to her face. A challenge glistening in gold.

Her whip was finding its way back to its master after his dodging. No harm archived, his ankles remained safe -as they should- yet, as Joui and his clones split, the sense of safety vanished. Not only the image of her mate had surrounded the Fae, but also his weapon.

Little time she had to analyze his multiple silhouettes when his sword, all four of them abandoned his hands, threatening as it was, aiming for Sayge's head. Barely a few rays of light starting to shine on the dueling ground, and danger could be smelled in the morning air and perhaps the aroma of tea coming from the sides.

Her upper body leaned back, arching to keep the swords from slicing through her flesh, or worse, dismembering it. The fast movement of her body was not followed with such fluidity by her hair, a few strands had a different fate, being cut by the blade of the real sword.

Her trimmed hair rained in front of her eyes covered by the mask, falling into the sand. Sayge's gaze gleamed silver at misfortune. And as soon as her body regained her balance, her hand gripping the now red whip reacted. The magical leash went for the swords, cutting over the illusions and grabbing the one that still had the warmth of her lover's on its handle, throwing his own weapon at him.

[saygeko]

Crowds & Ghosts

Crowds: What does your muse prefer, the action of Downtown Diamonds and the Circle, or the quiet away from it?

She enjoys both. Yet, she still prefers the bustle of The Circle over that of Downtown Diamonds, not only because she feels comfortable in the casinos, but because spending time in Diamond territory should be limited and mostly reserved for theater visits. Sayge doesn't find many other reasons to cross the border.

But because casinos take so much of her time, her desire for a quiet place is always present. And if tranquility is what she wants, Sayge will look for a place near water and nature, whether it's her own koi ponds in the casino office or any other type of natural running water where she could spend time.

Ghosts: Has your muse ever seen something they couldn’t explain?

Sayge likes to think that she has seen it all, but now and then, something surprises her. When she first crossed the portal to Kadeu, hundred of years ago. She crossed paths with a being she could not explain, not from this plane and neither from any other she had heard of. Almost as if they existed, but they did not. Sayge found her own explanation and linked it to some mundane game and not any sort of magic, but it was something she had never experienced before, and Sayge had experience at being the aim of the tricks of the mind, yet, this was nothing she had come across before.

[saygeko]

𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐬𝐡

Friday, September 10, 2024. Evening. The Kohaku, The Circle, Hearts Territory.

@croupiex​

To be human -as if ever someone had said such words- seemed a curse, nothing more than a short life span and a meaningless existence. No matter if said human could hold any luck in them -worse if they had none- Already forgotten by the good touch of fate by the mere act of being born. Something Sayge wouldn't lose sleep for, but when she crossed paths with one of them, the brisk thought would appear and vanish quickly in her mind. Oh, the poor human souls.

The desire to help just for the sake of helping was something Sayge didn't connect with easily, much less often. Her whisper of good luck wouldn't caress anyone's cheeks for no reason. Not without wanting something back. If they gambled in her casino, some of her good fortune would fall on them, it was good for the business, but it would not be the same fate for those earning their daily bread under the lights of the gambling room. Lucky they should already feel working at her command.

Followed by two junior butlers in Zuihuo's colors, Sayge left the noise and pleadings for good outcomes behind. The Kohaku had its characteristic pulling of her. Greed could be smelled in the air, the hope of the middle rankers mixed with the envy of those not high enough to earn a letter in their wrists. Exhausting her now more than years before, when her hunger was fed with their begging, but now, now Sayge had a different appetite.

Guards opened the heavy doors of the office, for her to find refuge inside, or to work more. Butlers took their steps after her but were stopped short by Sayge's raising hand and a faint smile crossing her lips, an order easy to understand, she was walking into the office on her own. Doors closed behind her figure.

By her pond was Cassius. Lost on his own thoughts, she could only assume, as not the heavy doors being closed, or even the clicking of her heels as she approached brought him back to the present moment, he was anywhere but at her office that evening. The Fae could see his shoulders slumped like if he had already given up, perhaps he did.

"Are my fish lending you an ear?" She asked as her feet took her close enough to sit on the edge of the pond, not as far from the distracted human. "They are good. Aren't they?" Her black eyes landed on the swimming creatures, all gathered close to the man, who had their precious food on his hands.

The Diamond had become a regular at her offices after his misstep in the past. Half a punishment, half a promotion. Han Cassius had now the privilege to feed her koi fish, only those that wouldn't need special care. With not a hidden motive, Sayge gave Cassius one thing, that for some had more meaning than simple luck. 

Trust, but in Lady Luck's words; meaning. Live for the fish.

[saygeko]

Heights: Is your muse a risk-taker?

Is your muse a risk-taker?

She is reckless, but only when she knows her good luck will save her from bad fortune. For some, that little detail might make her actions seem less risky, but not for Sayge. Defying fate is something she does not take lightly, as her ability to bend the hand to of her own destiny is non-existent, making this a double-edged sword.

She knows when the risk is worth taking, or when it will lead to nothing but defeat.

[saygeko]

SEPTEMBER ; MEME

Spiders: Does your muse squish bugs or put them outside?

The Dark: Did your muse sleep with a mana nightlight as a child?

Snakes: Would your muse ever keep an unusual/exotic pet?

Blood: What’s the worst injury your muse has ever had?

Clowns: Does your muse prefer comedy? Or horror?

Mirrors: What is your muse’s least favorite thing about their appearance?

Tight Space: Does your muse ever feel that they’re not living up to their own potential?

Closet Monsters: What is one thing your muse does that identifies them with their species? Their faction?

Crowds: What does your muse prefer, the action of Downtown Diamonds and the Circle, or the quiet away from it?

Death: What does your muse consider the worst way to die?

Ghosts: Has your muse ever seen something they couldn’t explain?

Needles: Does your muse have a strong stomach?

Curses: Does your muse believe in good/bad luck? How about karma?

Heights: Is your muse a risk-taker?

Solitude: Name 3 things your muse couldn’t live without.

Fire: Would your muse rather be very cold, or very hot?

Failure: Has your muse ever given up on an important dream?

Abandonment: How would your muse win back someone who left them?

The Unknown: Does your muse have a deity they believe in?

Boogeyman:  Name one thing your muse has lost that they wish they could get back.

Falling: What does your muse think about falling in love or commitment?

Change: What was a turning point in your muse’s life?

Disease: What does your muse do on a sick day?

Number 13: Does your muse believe any superstitions?

Noise: Name one sound your muse finds absolutely unbearable.

Insects: Name something your muse finds gross or annoying.

Dolls: Has your muse ever collected something?

Getting Old: Would your muse rather live 50 years loved, or 200 years alone?

Social Phobia: What’s one thing your faction does you could do without?

[saygeko]

zuihuojoui​:

in all the ways

He turned, left hand pointing the short sword ground, right hand pointing his long sword at the figure before him. Slowly his left foot turned in the sand, indicating where his body should go. Deceit. He lunged to his right, closing the gap between them with long sword raised and in motion. Metal clanked as the protection of her whip guarded her space. The laughter rose within him, but he refused to let it free, his body stopping, turning to the left then he lunged at her again. A huff responded to the whipping of her weapon of death in the air. She pulled back, her long locks swaying as she rotated, frame shooting the object like venom again at him. 

Dagger answered her screeching fiend in search of blood, disturbing its path as he eased to the right, widening their gap but going right for her. Both blades came at her, right hand lowering, turning then forcing forward, daring her to resist both, daring her to try.

But defiance was her way, fear shed from her being as unneeded weakness. As it should be. 

His beloved, trained as he, with no remorse, with no room for error. She could answer the taunt in his motion and react, daring him to continue or reconsider. Her body came at him and he slipped, body slumping as the wails announced that fiends proximity. His head raised only to the glare of her silver stare behind her mask.

He eased back, exhaling to keep his composure. There she was, a challenge illuminated like the heavens, devastation pulling the possibilities from his shield. But he smiled. Smiled behind the black mask that bared the fangs of a dragon, its horns protruding from his head, dark as night, blending into his locks, secured low. His eyes barred as hers were, but still they focused on her as the gleam of her cosmic majesty promised him any mistake would be his blood. 

So he lowered himself as the whip glowed around her as her momentum increased. But there was one way to persist as she darkened the space so she alone could shine. His eyes closed then opened, golden gleam answering the beauty of her own, as he lined the casts. 

And then she came. 

@saygeko

She felt the west wind blow her hair. A cold breeze that was forbidden to caress her fair skin, since it was hidden by a mask covering her face, and depriving the wind of touching her. A touch she did not miss, as the exhilaration granted by a duel under the dawn sky became a tradition the land of dragons have given her.

His attempt to mislead her by taking false steps made one of Sayge's eyebrows rise, unimpressed at his deception and the tenacity of her beloved, but her dainty smile didn't last long withheld. His mischief takes place in the dueling grounds, but only in there when it came to deceiving her, yet it played a trick on him, and he saw it coming. How could he not?

Sayge's eyes blazed silver, illuminating from the inside of the white mask outward. A white mask with the fin of Koi at the top and red lines drawing the menacing features, her long hair falling from the sides and dancing with each move.

She tugged on his good fortune as one pulls of an anchor's rope, disturbing his stability and dropping a few drops of bad luck on him, enough so that his feet were no longer clinging tightly to the sand. No longer rock-solid as he always was.

She swung the magical whip over her head with her whole arm, body slightly moving along with it. Daring. The lash was made of magic, materializing and glowing in golden sparks, to please herself and suit her adversary. She was grace incarnate, imposing, and dangerous like the cracking of the whip. Cutting air as it would cut flesh.

With light steps, without even lifting a grain of sand, she approached. Gripping her weapon tightly, and her eyes searching for the weak spot from where to steal luck. If his steps were but a feint, then she would go for his feet.

And two could play tricks.

Using her momentum, she leaped into the air, whip following her lead, but then she whirled around. Reaching the ground, she crouched down, rebalancing her body with the freehand, and the glistering leash went for his ankles. Gold after gold.