calamity

It appeared Dio's stay on Acoma was not only going longer than planned but just a rocky as it started. He came to the island in the sky to get more familiar with the Draconic tongue among those that spoke it the most fluent. Yet even as he tried to pay attention to every word spoken he was finding it harder to grasp before moving forward. Not that his stay was all bad even if his trials were going longer than he wished. Every morning Dio woke up with Hugo at his side under the warm Acoma sun. Glad he offered to come along for a bit before he needed to be returning to duties back at the Ark. He felt he could only keep Hugo from his role in the Shinto for so long and time was sure to be approaching. After waking with his love he went off to help with the hatchling feedings and spend time with Lil Draco. Surely a boost to his mood to start to the day and often where he retreated when his tongue was too tied to speak.

He just left the pens and was headed back to the lodge the pair were staying in the meantime. Dio trying to put the best face on for Hugo as he entered even if his smile was a little hallow. "Hey." A short greeting before he found Hugo and buried his face into him. Taking a deep inhale and letting go of a heavy sigh. The smell of rain an easy pheromone to sooth him. "Listen...I know you probably have to go back soon...and I might be stuck here longer than planned...but is there anyway I can convince you to extend your stay?" Turning his puppy dog eyes up to help gain advantage with his persuasion. The look a little more effective after the reaping of his field of hair, less of it falling into his eyes. "I promise to let you try that rope thing if you do."

@sonofstorms

Hugo didn't expect to return to the sky island so soon. He felt honored, not only for the chance to visit, but be a part of Dio's learning draconic journey. The days were for study, exploration, but time was spared for the nights as well. Over drinks with encouraging locals, Hugo finally graduated from nursing Dragon's Hoard Stout to drinking Smoldering Ember Ale. Walks home from dinner were guided by the warm candlelight adorning most windows. Flickering peacefully like heartbeats while illuminating the gentle rain that mirrored back.

He brought his camera along, it had been too long since Hugo last used it. Capturing memories of temples, statues, actual dragons, and of course Concordio out in public or in their bed as each day passed. Only on the forth day, Hugo received word of Forest Hwang's departure from the Ark. While remaining a beloved son of the Shinto, it seemed Hugo's nearest and dearest ally was ready to offer his seat to another child of Amaterasu. Returned to the security of home and real family, the veil's fate undetermined.

It left Hugo with much to think about while Dio returned to his studies. Then the days started to stack atop the week they initially signed up for. The son of Raijin was meant to feel urgency and shame, but Hugo was in no rush to interrupt this time spent alone with Concordio. Maybe they were playing pretend, he thought while browsing through the beautiful and cheerful photos. But this new routine, environment, and space had been... undeniably refreshing. Still the time passed, the Ark awaited, and the pair began to secretly count hours in their pretty tortured minds for when they would depart.

The countdown for Hugo vanished whenever Dio returned to their lodge to start the evening anew. He would have stood up from his lounge spot on the bed, but Dio collapsed into him instead. Hugo set the camera aside and pulled his lover in for a warm, and briefly tight embrace. All ears for an update on his day, though the energy gradually dampened. Just as he noticed, Concordio explained. Hugo grinned back upon hearing the other's plea and brushed fingers through his shortened black hair. Conflicted, as he grew to favor both styles.

"I'm glad you asked..." Hugo muttered while adjusting atop the sheets. Between them, he'd avoided the question most. "and you're feeling curious. Again." The prospect of tying Dio's wrists alone was the most tempting bait, but lightning had yet to strike as the dark clouds of Hugo's mind steadily cycled. "... I've considered what's waiting for me at the Ark... and who isn't." Hugo saw Amaterasu's lodge empty and darkened once before. It practically broke his heart. "... And what you and I talked about, before leaving."

Initially a skeptic, Hugo reflected on what the Ark had developed into since the Shinto joined arms. This recent change was nothing he expected. More a choice. One Hugo had to consider wise because of his devoted mentee. Who wanted peace more than all of them. But what was peace for others while their own was so viciously robbed from them? "As long as I'm not kicked out, I'll stay with you, but... it's obviously more than that."

Dio's side glaze became fully focused on Hugo as he approached, disarmed with words of apology. For a moment the sour pout became more of a smile. Even Hugo would feel that wave of his smile wash over him, or more so the powers of his hand wraps feeding Hugo with the power of his FEAST. Right before Dio swiftly punched Hugo in the shoulder. Sure to feel the blow but all damage fall under the protection of Dio's boast to his vitality. "You're doing it again. I never asked you to pull back your punches. We train and go all out, that's what I wanted." Taking Hugo's hand and placing it over the semi erection Dio had in his pants. "Don't apologize for this. It's just like salt in the wound...and if you can't tell I love seeing you go all out whether I'm at your side or the target of your power." A sweet kiss on Hugo's cheek as he removed the hand away.

The words that followed were a bit more appreciated and welcomed. Even if he bit back with a little sour humor. "Beast slayer...but failed to become a dragon tamer." Double meaning of both Hugo and Lil Draco who'd he'd yet to claim. The pout was crumbling by the warmth of his usual humor. And Hugo's supportive words. Dio knew he was being a brat about the match but it was less about what he was capable of. He knew he was a champion many times over but he still had ways to go to match the one he loved. "I just want to be worthy to be at your side...in bed or in battle." His mother's favor meant less to him when it came to Hugo's belief in him.

With a huff of deflated air Dio rolled back and fell into the grass, grabbing Hugo to tug him but letting go to let him come down on his own. "I envy the bond you have with the other Shintos. Sometimes I feel like I'm the one fighting for my entire pantheon being the only Anito here. So maybe my need to be better comes from the feeling I have to hold up the representation for my blood....because if I fall then there is no one left fighting for us." He plucked another blade of grass. "Aligning with others to help nature thrive...rumor has it there might be some demis joining up with connection with the earth but who knows if they will feel the same way I do about the importance of protecting the land." Eyes turned to Hugo felt less heavy and just released the tensions of thoughts in his head. "And I know I have you...but you have your own duties that aren't always aligned with mine."

Hugo often reminded himself that Dio was different from the others. Compared to jaded veterans and bright-eyed recruits alike, his past was far more formidable. For what he endured Dio was not so easily broken. But everyone had a breaking point. That was where Hugo found Dio when they first met. He reflected upon that night. The hopelessness in the other's eyes. The want to take one final leap. Fortunately, Hugo hadn't witnessed the same expression since Concordio's arrival. If he did, there would be hell to pay for whoever or whatever caused the rift in Dio's otherwise unbreakable foundation.

After the blow that both gave and took Hugo's breath away, his hand was drawn to the passion Dio felt through all of this. Their spar, heated debate, and punishing surprisal. The result did not disappoint, though Hugo suddenly wanted to be at home with him once his touch registered. Dio drew away, like a complete tease, and perched down on the grass before him. "Hey," Hugo warned after Dio made the smart comment. "Lil Draco wouldn't appreciate that... and you're more than just a 'tamer' to him anyway."

However much Hugo wanted to comfort Dio, he recognized the frustration to match in battle came from a pragmatic place. Feeling vexed was often a positive. Motivation to change, improve, and better oneself. Hugo wouldn't take such budding inspiration from Dio. The son of Raijin was fueled by the same emotions and used it as a tool for training himself and others. He did join him on the ground, from behind, and drew bloodied but dried hands across Dio's relaxed arms. Dropping the blade of grass in favor of locking digits together, he guided both hands closer to Dio's core. Finding the center, like a shared meditative pose. Chin against his shoulder, he replied,

"That's why we have the Ark. One pantheons struggle is shared by the others. ... The onryu mission may have our Shinto name on it, but there's no way we'll finish it without support." If the Shinto stood on their own like before, they would most likely die and the mission would be forgotten. Til the consequence of such failure suffered both worlds. "But I get it... it's nice to have allies in the same position. People to depend on long-term. 'just saying... at the rate people join and duck out, sharing a pantheon may not be enough. Like you've helped all of us, for your own reasons... it comes down to the individual. No less valued or necessary."

nefertied

❝ so I've heard: those boundaries aren't meant to be open, but they take godly efforts to close them back. ❞ the longer they stayed disturbed, who knows what could come from the ancient lines of the gods. the mention of poison does intrigue sabri, though they wish they had more of an answer to give hugo. ❝ I do, but I fear that my methods of poisoning might not suffice what you're researching. herbal means of poison rely on intoxication or aerial sporing. it has to attack with an internal means of entering the system, like poisonous spores or even ingestion. it sounds like what you're wishing to research is venom, or poison by animal or human means. often times or not, it's of a biological means, like blood, spit, or other secretions, and may even have acidic properties. I can't say I know too much about it, but I used to have a campmate within the kemetic camp: a son of serqet who would coat his daggers in various poisons to make any strike on their opponent incapacitating at best, fatal at worse. but I'm sure there is some research we could find. maybe it'd help more to study the markupo itself to understand the poison, as well as an examination of what remains you have. ❞ for someone who said they couldn't help too much, sabri often gave as many options as he could to help.

"Godly efforts, yet they call us." Hugo smirked to himself. Though he remained a loyal servant to the cause there had to be some endgame for not only succeeding, but surviving such trials. Instead, the problems stacked or grew in urgency. Hugo was grateful that he and his pantheon no longer stood alone in the face of it all. It would take many demigod's to repair this damage. "I'm good for cutting down beasts, but... they're just a symptom."

Hugo listened intently to all of the useful information Sabri had to share. Learned through reading, experience, even a friendship. Sabri's wealth of knowledge helped Hugo understand the difference of a toxins origins. Then a basic application a fighter like Hugo could adopt. "Accounts of the markupo have been... limited." Even at the Ark with it's impressive archives. "Once I master this kit... I can skip the study and try it's poison on my next enemy. Observe their reaction. Add to the accounts myself."

#xsabri

@sonofstorms

Dio was forced to do something he never fathomed would be possible. After that last hit from Hugo's thunderous blows he had no other choice but to... "Yield...I yield." Lowering his blades as the sudden vibration in his bones was causing his swings to fail. It was clear Dio was not happy about it, as he visibly turned away and pouted like a child. He managed to stand on his own and go blow for blow with a bear and yet against another demigod he was finding himself with much room for improvement. The wound to his pride and undefeated record was almost as tender as the growing bulge in his pants.

It took him a moment before the subject registered and suddenly his amusement broke through sour face. "Oh, the Ley Lines. I forgot about those..." Scratching his head as if the very involvement on the recent mission didn't center at the topic. "...yeah, I'll be honest love. I haven't really thought about that. Like I get that it's important but sorting out the important stuff isn't really my...thing?" It wasn't that Dio doubted his brain power he just knew his mind was better set on things he was good at. "I leave all that to you big 'post it on the wall' types. Me? I just get pointed at what to attack and make sure they don't get up." Starting to the chew on the inside of his cheek as he spoke. "Though with the rate these matches are going that's up for debate."

Dio's only motive for the mission was helping the anito and killing the beast that was a danger to them. The loot and the ley lines registered less to none on the level of importance. "I sometimes feel like my motives align with the Ark but not as one...more like side by side. I'm sure people have been looking into the Ley Line while I've been busy trying to figure how to gain favor with the Pure Maiden to grow her mangoes." He planted his blades into the ground and stretched out his sore body when something else registered to him. Though it was hallow laughter coming from his lips. "Though I have to question how the things I seek out sometimes turn out...bad." Maybe the attacks had rattled more than just his bones as Dio felt an odd wave of thought wash over him. "First with Sugaru...idolizing his skill only to learn he hurt someone I loved..." Barely able to look at Hugo. "Then I wanted to join a gang of treasure hunters that turned out might be after us. Now I'm trying to ally with a god that sees mortals as food..." Sure he didn't feel the same as he did knowing the full story but the fact it drew him all the same was concerning. "...it felt personal because I feel it was motive I could support. Nature deserves to have some of the world back. But the methods I would not agree with."

"'sorry for not pulling my punches with the recap." Hugo genuinely apologized. Wondering if he should have known better than to go off like he had. As if he were reporting at the campfire. Not speaking to the man he loved in private. "'didn't realize I was... ruining a dream." By the state of Dio, it was clear that Hugo's words weren't the only thing cutting deep today.

At Dio's subtle self-deprecation, Hugo sheathed his blades and finally approached. "You're a beast slayer now." He reminded while reaching for Dio's soiled arm. Urging him to face him once more. Proud or spent. "A champion of your pantheon. Where you otherwise stand alone, but with Lakapati's favor."

What Dio accomplished couldn't be overstated, but the Ark as a whole had lost trust in abundance lately. Mainly because of the late Oran and his connection with the new Electra. The beetle arena filled with enemies studying their abilities and tools. It got exhausting, all of the swings and misses.

"... You weren't there so... you couldn't have known." Hugo could confidently say that every demigod had their own ideas. Secret wants, good or terrible. They were all one step away from becoming the enemies they fought against, but Dio's heart clearly wasn't built for such a life. And he wasn't blind and reckless, as Hugo had been while highly motivated to end Sugaru. "Your very existence gives nature that chance. ... Maybe we'll meet another benevolent god willing to lend a hand. Xipe Totec just... isn't it, this time."

onewithsharks

"Well, I realized, maybe a little too late, that I was faulting my bio father for not being present all my life but it wasn't his fault, not really. I decided that I had to give him a chance and prove myself worthy of him too. Hence why I am here. My adoptive father re-took the company while I'm away." He drank from his drink and relaxed on his chair. "I've learned a little bit about it all since I am here, since I've stopped denying who I am and where I come from."

"Yeah? Can I see the ones you have?" He asked, eyeing him with interest. "It's alright to not show me," he understood people may not want to show their tattoos or them being in very private areas. "As for me... well, I tried to forget about my godly father for years and focused on my country instead."

Hugo offered a heavy, thoughtful nod after Mano explained. The hunt for approval and love was one many half-gods shared and died for. Mano was blessed with both back on earth, but Hugo could relate to the fisherman's recent ambition. To want more and to take a peek behind the veil. "The sacrifice is noble, I'm sure your worthiness wont be in question for very long. You've already gained the respect of a veteran."

"There will be more action to prove your mettle here at the Ark. The beetles are a challenge, but not a true threat." Facing the beetle arena was necessary, especially for fighters to blow off steam and show off for a change. A confidence boost if anything.

He adjusted in his seat, but Mano seemed to understand the struggle to share so soon. "It's not meant to be hidden, but I'll have to show you another time. 'maybe if we do some training." Hugo could picture familiar allies jaws dropping to the floor if he whipped off his shirt here and now. Definitely uncharacteristic, however eager he was to share with his new friend. "Do you really consider them so separate from each other? Country and culture are sacred too."

#xmano

savioresque

... for quite some time, aleki felt like he was only going through the motions. doing only what was supposed to feel right. doing only what was supposed to feel good. but he finally made a breakthrough ────── a firmer grip at the present, and now he wanted to learn about everything he had missed in everyone's lives while he was busy licking his wounds. he would certainly love to hear all about how hugo's lodge got destroyed : was it his own powers gone awry or something else entirely ? ❝ missed it ? ❞ now that was surprising. and although it only took the destruction of his lodge for hugo to finally appreciate the music, nothing would stop aleki from taking this as a win. ❝ ... huh. now, i'm concerned. are you sure your house wasn't the only thing struck by lightning, hugo ? ❞ a small laugh slipped past his lips, moving to sit on the steps of his porch, leaving space for hugo to sit beside him. ❝ how did that happen anyway ? i don't remember any storms passing by ... and well, looks like your house was the only one affected. ❞ and with the confirmation that hugo and dio had been living together, there was a giddy smile that tugged at the corners of aleki's lips. ❝ so, you and dio, huh ? ❞ love in a time of war. it was definitely ballsy. admirable, even. and for a moment, aleki wished he had the same courage ────── but it was hard enough to lose friends. he didn't know how he could handle losing someone he truly loved more than everything else. though, he couldn't let his own reservations affect that slice of happiness he felt for the two. even if they might not make the same choices, they could all still look at hugo and dio for some hope. their lives didn't need to be just about the battles they fought. they all had a purpose worth dying for, but they could still find things worth living for, too. ❝ how's that going ? are we going to have our very first ark wedding soon ? ❞ aleki asked, half-joking. it would definitely be fun, and they could all use something the celebrate after everything they had gone through. but it was more of a lighthearted jest than anything serious. ❝ i know we've got all those flower power demigods, but hey — i hope you don't count me out for flower girl. i bet i'd do a real good job throwing petals around. ❞

Aleki's curiosity didn't intimidate Hugo. He grew to admire the younger warrior's genuine nature. The boldness he had to speak, sometimes for the sake of, but at least Hugo knew where he stood. Many deeper feelings went unsaid between and amongst the group. Without certain ears to listen and some guidance, the significant losses could take precedent over their many victories. He had no means to tell if his fellow fighter faced similar mental hurdles, but gathered a deep sense of such energy when around Forest. The common thread between the three being the first Electra.

He found the seat offered and enjoyed the view from Pele's porch before them. "No, but I deserved to be struck down too." Hugo smiled in spite of the fact. Raijin's wrath was illustrated plainly, but he was merciful toward his one of presumably many children. Following the calamity, Hugo could sit secure and study the partly clouded sky above. Confident their connection remained unsevered.

"I went to pray outside and the frustrations I've felt since Electra rose to the surface. It was a prayer for the Shinto and the Ark, but... mostly I told him how pissed I was he didn't show when I called for him then. To help us." Not even Forest knew this. Maybe it was a mutual cultural boundary, but the Shinto brothers rarely opened up. "He didn't care," Hugo was certain most God's simply couldn't. "but I think he understood."

It was impossible for Hugo to describe his relationship with Dio in a few words or sentences. So he didn't try to. Though public and proud, the significance was really only for them to understand. Some things had to remain private, sacred, and nothing could match the oath recently declared. A promise Hugo was certain his longtime allies would scold him for, but had led him to absolution. "Sooner than you think." Hugo half-joked in return. "We've tempted fate this far... and enough time has passed for both of us." The sentimental comment slipped out with a faint sigh.

"Well, you are the first to ask." Hugo cheerfully considered out loud, gaze falling from Aleki's new haircut to the guitar propped on his knees. "I will keep your name in mind for any planning. How does it feel to play again? I'm sure Pele enjoys hearing your music too. After the hiatus no less."

#xaleki

Dio loved staring into Hugo's eyes. Like a lovesick puppy but also the way the clouds turned in his gaze when he twisted in his thoughts. What beautifully tragic torture was he putting himself through this time? Always ready to pull out what wasn't say, although it seemed Hugo was learning to speak the quiet thoughts aloud. A needed act for Dio to be able to calm them. For as much doubt his beloved held Dio would always be there to relieve him of it. By blade, words or just his company. They were partners. Neither would shoulder burden alone again. Or at least Dio hoped he could trust that to be true.

To say he was without fear would be a lie. One did not almost die in a car, spend ten years in prison to just come out unscathed. But the words of his mother echoed in his mind and soul: "Just as a seed must endure the darkness of the Earth to sprout, the souls of mortalkind must grow through their trials to discover their true selves." In all his years without faith the weight of a god's words had finally fallen on him. But it relieved him of more burden than it gave. Took away any doubt that things happened the way they were meant to.

Dio bit his lips at the offer to save him. "Wow, are you trying to turn me on with that line? Because it's working..." The thought of Hugo coming to rescue him and slaughtering all that stood before him was...endearing? arousing? A meld of both. But the pleasant feeling felt guilty and it was his turn to leave thoughts silenced in his own head. As such an act would make him no different than Sugaru, using his powers to achieve some twisted goal. And he would never wish to put such a stain on Hugo's precious soul.

Allowing him to speak without further interruption. Releasing all that swirled in his mind until those storm clouds in his dark eyes had calmed again. Dio kissed him because it felt needed. And as a reward for speaking the quiet things aloud with more ease than before. Arms wrapping around Hugo's neck and shoulder until their foreheads were rested together. "You didn't fail me, Hugo. If your intervened in what was planned for me then I would never be this version of me. We might not even be this version of us. Not all my scars are by your hand, nor your guilt to carry."

Wishing there was a way to take this burden from Hugo forever but such guilt was bred into his being. From those Hugo worked for when they were still human to his father's demand for proving himself now. Again Dio wished to take it away but would accept it as just being how Hugo was. And loving even those parts of him. "If there was a way to make you understand...to show you that how much I love you means more to me than how much you've wronged me in the past..." The words falling from his lips before he was quick enough to catch them. They knew they loved each other, it had to be no secret. But the pair seeming to be less comfortable with saying the words. While the other was awake at least.

But the words were said and Dio wasn't about to stand exposed on this ledge alone. "Hugo, do you love me? Do you plan to ever hurt me like that again? Will you ever abandon me? Your pantheon seems pretty big on their vows so make this vow to me. If you can promise all this to me then turn all that guilt you have into a fight to never wrong me again. Because if you do..." Shifting to his ear, his words so soft and love. "...I will be yours and only yours. And if you break that vow I will gladly put my blade through your heart and take what was offered to me when we were reunited." Kissing his ear ever so sweetly to seal his promise.

Paths, destiny, and fate were dismissive phrases to Hugo. Excuses. He didn't know why Raijin chose him then or now. Especially now, since lately it felt like Song was back at square one. Like so many newcomers at the Ark. Earning trust and loyalty. Again, in his case. If divine timing and order did exist, Lakapati called for Dio to turn all Hugo had known on it's head. And it was working.

To draw his blade against "innocent" mortals would have surely cast Hugo from the Shinto pantheon and the Ark project. Corrupted him much like the enemies they faced on a weekly basis. All of them threats to earth, mankind, and the natural order they were all deeply connected to. Aloft in his untamed thoughts and power, this truth was easy to forget while his personal truth berated his atmosphere. What was right, what was wrong, and what he could do about it. There was no waiting only acting. The horrible weight he felt right now was consequence for not doing just that. A betrayal to himself.

I would have. He thought, with arrogance and certainty, but the image of Forest or Mai hunting and cutting him down for such a sin made him bite his tongue. Cast the hunger for a now settled matter far from him.

He hated interrupting what was meant to be a moment of tranquility, but the issue had to be addressed if there was any hope to move forward. In the search of truth and evidence of... love Hugo was beyond half-measures. Concordio appeared at ease, almost prepared for all he shared. It shouldn't have surprised Hugo, but did. Especially while he comforted him in the storms wake. Pulled him nearer than before to touch foreheads and steal kisses. Hugo clung back. Believing Dio's pledge. Marveling as he devised one to suit the vengeful warrior.

It gave him the hope he had been missing since they first kissed in Acoma. In a sick sort of way. As the phantom sensation of a katana's blade thrust through his heart. An irrefutable display of dominion he understood and could keep safe in Concordio's able hands. Without regret for the peace that would follow both of them after.

The distant look in his eyes faded. Light returned along with his soul and feeling. What Dio called fight, Hugo could only describe as pure flame when they shared moments like this. Far too often. His breath was shortened, heart racing as he faced Dio head on. Cupped his face with dripping hands and stole a fervid kiss. Somehow, more heartfelt than the others before. The heat of his breath matched the steam surrounding them as he faintly slipped away.

"'dio..." It almost pained him to speak, but he loved the feeling. Awakened, he could speak true. "I promise. Your fight... your wounds will be my own. I will keep you safe. My heart, my life belong to you. ... Love from me is... different. Like my father... there are demon's." Dio knew that. "I won't hide. ... I will love you with who I truly am."

... for some time, aleki seemed to have forgotten how easy it was to drown the world out with a few guitar riffs. but he was slowly finding his groove back. and for the first time since his death, aleki finally began playing music once again. he knew he might have lost sight of things : even waited and waited and waited for someone ... anyone ... to see and save him from the pit of despair & melancholy he found himself in. but aleki didn't want to wait forever. and soon enough, he realized that only he could really help himself. so he made the conscious effort to make room for things that really made him happy, instead of filling the empty spaces in his heart with mindless distractions. it was almost picturesque ; aleki, playing his guitar on his porch, bathed in sunlight and the warm breeze. but as lighthearted as the music made him feel again, it didn't really change the fact that his riffs, no matter how masterful, were still loud as fuck ────── like a hundred banshees screaming together. and just like old times, it seemed to have beckoned hugo. ❝ here to complain about the noise ? ❞ aleki paused mid-riff, guitar resting on his lap, but he couldn't help the smile the formed on his lips when he saw the older demigod. it had been awhile since they were deployed on a quest together or even had the chance to catch up. ❝ been a hot minute since we talked. i guess dio finally let you out of the basement he was keeping you in ? ❞ @sonofstorms

While losing his lodge had been a... change, Hugo was kind of getting used to it. Change had been testing his resilience for months now. Each assault revealed his weakness, but also the people standing in his corner. After shifting and pivoting through each obstacle, Hugo was in a period of renewal. Building his new home was a very literal representation of that. Maybe there was something to fate and paths.

He was at ease while waiting for his latest vision to become real. He still had his Shinto family and now Dio to give him shelter. Though Hugo could think of a few other allies to turn to in situations like this. Not that he planned to challenge his father ever again. Hugo didn't feel regret, at all, but the tension and anger had disappeared along with his lodge. He was passed it.

It had only been a week, but Hugo already missed traveling by his familiar ally lodges daily. Aleki's being nearest (and secretly dearest). "Actually... I've missed it." Hugo admitted from afar, wearing a smile. The pair weren't personally close, but Hugo endeavored to nurture whatever budding friendship was there. Without consciously noticing till now, it had been some time since Aleki played. At least this publicly and unrestrained.

"I always keep an ear out... or an eye, I guess, with what you cook up in the group chat every week." He nodded in appreciation. Texting was more Forest's thing. Even Dio's. While keen on staying informed, Hugo had to pick his battles more wisely lately. Too much going on. "Lakapati's lodge is more hospitable than my last. Kinda like yours. I've been taking notes."

#xaleki

nefertied

the library was a pretty frequent place for sabri to venture to: knowledge beyond the mere words of the mortal world, it was all kind of exciting. not only for general things, but personal ventures as well. it wasn't uncommon for them to check out and return a handful of books on alchemy and herbal tomes. in fact, they were actually grabbing another book that had to do with transforming plant essence to magic when their old-time friend hugo approaches them. the pair had history back when sabri was still a teenager.

❝ I suppose you could say something of that nature.❞ sabri can't help but giggle just a little bit: the sherlock sabri comparisons were kind of funny. they were just glad to broker a bit of peace on the coast. ❝ but I hear congratulations are in order for your quest against the markupo. ❞ could they smell the victory ? in a sense, but they were aware their own nose was more heightened for scents. regardless, they knew hugo could do it: the son of raijin had a might very few could contest. soft brown eyes perk up a little at the mention of hugo's project. ❝ oh ? what is it about, if you don't mind me asking. ❞

Avoiding a potential war between humans and sirens was a complex task. Hugo was pleased that bagging the conch shell helped. Armando snatched the powerful item with his quick thinking and quicker hands. Hugo still wasn't certain how he'd managed to hold the guard's attention so long. Charismatic or performative displays weren't his strong suit.

Battling the markupo, now that was more his thing. "Like most Ark issues, the markupo was just the first monster we'll have to defeat. The ley lines are disturbed." Hugo explained, ever willing to share details with Sabri or any half-god who showed interest. Few allies perked up as Sabri did now. "Poison. I never learned what the markupo's could do." Luckily. "I could sell what I picked off of the beast, but that feels like a missed opportunity. Have you studied poisons before?" It seemed to Hugo that such topics would be in Sabri's wheelhouse, but he didn't want to assume.

#xsabri

With a huff Dio smacked away the hand drawing circles in his skin. A face lowering dangerous close to the other with a bit of bite in his tone. "I am your flower only when we lay together...if you treat me any different than any other opponent you will regret it." He came in for a kiss but took a nip of Hugo's bottom lip as he pulled away. Knowing Hugo's words were said out of love and a sense of protection but not wanting to be handled as some fragile thing. As even in his lose he felt satisfied by the fight. "I wear or see no mark of yours less cherished than the other."

Maybe that's why people found his word to be so profound. Because Dio never said anything that wasn't with complete and untainted truth. Such brash honesty could be a heavy weight on others, as he could see his beloved try to absorb his declaration. "See. You've been here so long the idea of leaving it behind probably scares you. Me? I've never been so bond to anything I couldn't free myself should I choose....not before you..." Again, complete honesty. Not looking to flutter Hugo's heart with sweet nothings but to wave off any doubt. How could you be unsure about a love that proclaimed itself in such a way.

He pushed off the edge of the pool and slipped into the water. Back to the wall while legs found their place around Hugo's waist. "Calm down I'm not saying I'm trying to leave tomorrow it's just that..." He tried to pause and let his words form across his mind before they were laid out on his tongue. "...I came here because I was lost. My life was aimless and this revelation of a godly mother seemed enough to take a gamble on. A followed the path it led me to Lakapati...led me to you." Soft, battle ridged and garden tending hands touched Hugo's face. "I am grateful for all my power gives me. Those I am able to help...those I am able to put down...but I know that if there was one thing that could pull me away from it all it's you."

Dio hoped that clarified his words a bit. As he did not want there to be any fear he was ready to give up the fight so easily. "Besides...I have much more to do. Languages to learn....weapons to collect....dragons to tame....by my storm dragon...you will always come first." He leaned in for a kiss to solidify all he said in truth. But he broke off to laugh between their lips. "Although I guess i do tend to 'cum' first usually..."

He wore a smirk after being dealt such biting words and kisses. Dio didn't have to remind him of his fierceness, especially toughness, but Hugo heeded his words. As they explored new roles and forms of pleasure, it was important to learn Dio's wants, limits or... lack of them.

Hugo's heart fell at the mention of his bonds. The Pantheon and Shinto brothers he wished to protect. A pathetic attempt at making amends and becoming a better person, after leaving Dio behind. Learning what became of him, with no intervention from Lakapati or himself still sickened Hugo. Fed his self-hatred. If he could erase the last ten years, be there for Dio--take his place, Hugo would, but had no proof. Sat in this pool now, empty handed of such displays of love and loyalty, Hugo had to wonder why Dio would still choose him.

When his consciousness finally returned to his body and his eyes landed on Dio's, he could tell that Dio already knew. Could recognize the storm turning, thunder cracking within Raijin's son's mind. If only Hugo's pride and ego could take the day off too. Melt away in the mineral water with them. He wasn't accustomed to this foundation of certainty, devotion and care. Only the tumultuousness of this calling, his own mind, and the relationship with his father. His choices. Recklessness. Wasted potential.

"'knowing where I left you... it disgusts me." He drew in a stiff breath. However much his skin crawled and the self-hatred enveloped, Hugo didn't break from Dio. Who would see him regardless. "... I should have looked for you. Just once, and I... I could have freed you... and killed every pig that touched you. Who put you there.

... But I didn't. Every day that passed... I failed you. Turned away. Just like that night. I'm... honestly worse than any silent god."

This lucky life gave him strength and pride he'd never harnessed before. He endeavored to serve the next Shinto member to arrive. To carry them out of danger. To grow beside them. To learn how to trust someone again. Had it all been a waste and would these allegiances once more come between them? "... So it feels... great... to hear all of this from you." So great. "... I just wish I could say the same and... know that you could believe me, the way I believe you... but I've ruined that too."

The tightness returned to his shoulders, chest and throat. Emotions bubbled that he struggled to keep down. Because, in the eye of his inner storm, a quiet, optimistic, thought existed. That history... would not repeat itself. "... but... same. ... I'm... done living without you. This one... and the next."

Since the pair reconnected in the more biblical sense Dio felt every wall between them break. Whatever barrier their past and time apart had created left without any trace. As if they'd never been parted that day ten years ago. It made him 'aware' Hugo. Even as his eyes remained fixated on the sight outside their window he could still feel him. Where he was in the pool before the first ripple even came to his legs. Of his hand reaching for Dio before it even touched skin. It was a deep connection that felt like a thread binding together. A beautiful feeling that was also terrifying. Knowing how it felt when that line was cut from him before.

He tried to hide the fear in his eyes every time he looked to Hugo. Knowing if he was taken away again Dio might never recover from it. Which is why he always pulled him closer when he was within reach. Daring even the gods to tempt his wrath should they take him away. I'd let the world burn for you. He thought to himself as their eyes met. It was the truest answer to the question of how he felt in that moment. But in true Dio fashion his causal humor always masked over deeper thoughts. "Feeling like if all I have to do is let you kick my ass to get this kind of pampering I might let you win more often." Not that he by any means let Hugo win their last spar. That wasn't something even he would joke about.

Legs wrapped around Hugo in the water while Dio remained seated on the edge. His lips lowering for a subtle kiss but he stayed just as close when their lips parted. "I love exploring all parts of your world. Be it shinto or just your hometown. We always talked about it then but I never thought we'd have the ability to do it." Now they had the power to do almost anything they wanted. But all Dio wanted was to be by Hugo's side. Now and forever. He kissed at the fingers that touched at his face. "You're the only thing that could ever make me leave all this godly power behind."

Even while at rest and injured, Hugo could see the undying flame within Dio. A spirit like his was a rare thing. Earned and sharpened through the love and devotion held for his departed father. Hugo wondered if this was the light Elias del Rosario saw every day. He should have taken better care of Dio back then, but sometimes it was enough to know he had saved him that night on the street. When they first met. The fire had dimmed for Dio, but still shown brighter than any other soul in Hugo's first life. Like an angel. More accurately, someone half-god.

He wrapped an arm around Dio's right thigh and slowly drew wet circles and lines across the skin. Dark eyes fixed while his lover spoke of old shared wants and dreams. A few that had gone unsaid before. To hear that Dio loved his world, well, it filled Hugo's numbed heart with pride. Eased the traumatized youth within.

"You'll never have to pay a price to be given what you deserve from me." Unfortunately, the price had been paid in full, but Hugo knew to be best for Dio was to accept his forgiveness. To stay with him here in the now. "But if you come begging for a fight, you wont find pity after." He chuckled, breaking some tension. "I will clean you up though. ... These wounds are too harsh. 'not the kind I want to lay on you."

For all the years Hugo had lived with the Shinto, fought and ended up here, no one had made declarations quite like Concordio. "Would you?" He asked, tone and expression gone serious. Dio was still what could be considered a new arrival. They'd spoken at length of what had been gained by coming here. So could it all be so easily given up to return to the world as it was? Dishonest, cold, blind, cruel and dying. On paper, to give up the power would be an ungrateful choice or a plain foolish one.

Whether Dio was honest or simply extending a sweet-nothing, Hugo was moved. In a way that should feel wrong, but excited him. He drew closer, arms looping around Dio's waist. "... I say we enjoy it. ... A bit longer." He smiled, but there was a satisfied and daring glint in his eyes. Like a cat who got their cream. "'curious to see what we can build next... together."

mirrorstruck

"you're here early." by nature, forest was early to rise. knowing not everyone was like him, he decided to wait for a reasonable time before he began getting the grill ready for their barbecue to end the summer with a bang. it was a years-long tradition within their pantheon, to send off the warmer months. this year just felt... different, given their losses, and it being the first time forest was the host.

"i don't expect to see much company today, outside of you and mai." he flashes a tiny smile, nodding as he sets up one of the tents with a soft grunt. he wasn't physically the strongest, but he was capable. "i've had them ship something special over too, i think you'd like it."

@sonofstorms

#xsabri #//lmk if you want any changes!

Hugo seemed to have sharp foresight, for once. Deciding beside Forest that the younger Shinto member should host instead of him this year. After losing his lodge to a spat between (god) father and son two days before, Hugo came early for comforting shelter as much as politeness. Not empty handed. Of course. He had his own dishes that would complete their spread. Forest taking the lead on the important elements did warm his heart. Hugo really felt that this year he could... relax. Eat and drink his fill till his gut ached.

After dropping off the food and saying hello to Kiko, Hugo helped hoist the other end of the tent. "You wouldn't... mind if Dio joined?" He grunted till the leg stuck in place. This wasn't a topic Raijin's son aimed to get into. Romance wasn't typically on either Shinto borns radar. At least, hadn't been for Hugo in... a very long time. Still, Forest was host, this was his and Kiko's home. He would have final say on the matter.

"It's too much." Hugo humbly replied, though a joy sparked in his eyes at the prospect of a surprise. He then approached the grill to inspect the current cook. "When should it arrive? I can help finish what's left with set up. Just keep both eyes on that ribeye."

#xforest

@nefertied location: the ark library

Just after the crack of dawn, Hugo arrived back at the Ark with team in toe. Body heavy with exhaustion and unique treasures. Poison treasures. His interest in poisons was peaked only after witnessing the markupo in action. While battling, the fighter managed to duck and block away the dripping daggers. No one in their party could tell just how potent and destructive a drop of the stuff could be.

After a much needed clean up and aggressive celebratory fuck, Hugo spent a part of his early evening in the library. Reading up on the topic. He only peeked upward for a spell, but once he spotted Sabri at a distance he clapped the book shut and approached. Wearing an uncharacteristically relaxed smile, but otherwise typical modern minimalist fashion.

"I heard good things with the siren situation. You closed the case, hm?" He inquired, ever impressed with Sabri's ability to aid on missions. "I have a new project... sort of. At least wanted to read up on the subject."