Summary: Lolomori Totomori finally meets his the newest generation of his family.
Notes: Prompts provided by @saesama, @erickgage, and @healerstail
Decades had passed since Lolomori Totomori's daughter, L'lolamo, had left for his homeland. Though his reputation as a ruthless pirate known as The Bleeding Onion, had been well known across the seas, he had always had a sentimental streak when it came to his crew, elevated by settling down and having a family. After the fall of Dalmund, he'd woken up to find he could not remember the face of his only daughter and had wept for days. Five years later, the memory returned and he had rejoiced in just a many days of tears. Near two years after he met his grandson, U'rahn, one of the fabled Warriors of Light who'd traveled to Thavnair. Since then his found family continued to grow.
There would be no question that the other two Warriors of Light he would consider to be his adopted grandaughters, Violet having apparently been found and raised by his former crew. And then there was news of his daughter alive and well followed by U'rahn visiting with his strange wife. It wasn't long after until the joyous news of great-grandchildren came. Now that they were old enough to travel, he'd finally get to meet them and be united with his precious L'lolamo.
L'lolamo wandering up the paths to the Viper village, he almost became a flood of tears. Swallowing them, he held out his arms and held them long enough for his precious daughter to run forward and slide into them. "It's our girl Aneko. It's our girl," he said, hugging her tightly as his wife leaned down and hugged them both.
"Pita! Maa! It's been too long. I'm so sorry for staying away," L'lolamo breathed out, also starting to cry before pulling back and wiping her face. "I brought some guests that are looking forward to meeting their Papa and Mi'nani."
Lolomori lifted up on his toes to see over his daughter's shoulders, hearing the chattering of several young girls before spotting them and the Miqo'te man he figured to be his son-in-law. Approaching the reunited family, the latter reached out his arm, seeming to not struggle with the additional weight of his granddaughters, "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, fatherrr. I am U'doh."
Lolomori took the other's hand giving it bone crushing shake that made the man's ears and tail flip back in shock. "Ah. Yes, you must be the young man that stole my daughter's heart and kept her from returning to us."
"Hardly young anymore…," U'odh grunted, shaking out his sore hand as the other let go, "And, there is not a soul alive that could stop Lolamo from doing as she pleases."
"How true,"L'aneko echoed, giving her husband a light pinch on the shoulder to make him behave.
"Alright. Now, my great-grandaughters. Let's see, your daddy sent so many pictures I think I can pick you all out," Lolomori gruffed, pointing to each of the girls. "U'bylti, U'shtola, U'lolamo, U'annie, U'klynt, U'vi, U'nyx, U'sette, and….," he listed, before falling on the mammet that resembled his grandson, "Er…"
"That's our big brother U'rahn Tia! He's excited to see you too," U'shtola said, sharply picking up on her great-grandfather's confusion.
"Papa!" U'rahn Tia chriped, raising it's arms toward Lolomori.
Lolomori wasn't sure what to make of it, furrowing his brow before giving it a firm pat on the head, if at least to humour the girls. "Alright! The huntresses in the village have provided a grand feast for everyone! Let's get back to the village…perhaps after your Papa can test his blade against your grandad here."
"Uh…" U'odh sounded, looking at L'lolamo for help as the girls and U'rahn Tia let out a cheer and followed their great grandparents back into the village.
"Dear!? Dear!? Odh, please sit up," L'lolamo panicked, fretting over her knocked out husband. "I told you not accept Pita's challenge!"
Lolomori crossed his arms as he looked down at his son-in-law. "I didn't hit 'em that hard. Some fresh water and a few ice crystals wrapped in a cloth will helped with the knot on his head."
L'lolamo nodded, picking up U'odh in her arms to wobble back into her family home, leaving Lolomori to chuckle a little to himself. A tug on his sleeve, he looked to his side and found U'nyx sniffling, "You didn't kill grandpa did you?"
"No. I hit him with the back end of my axe. It was all in good fun," Lolomori assured her before finding U'klynt and U'vi popping up from behind.
"Cool! Can you teach us how to do that," the two echoed, getting a laugh out of man.
He shook his head, "Perhaps tomorrow. I'm sure we've got your Mi'nani's old practcice axe around somewhere."
"Can you play with us now though?" U'nyx asked, tugging again, "It's not time for bed yet is it?"
"It's much earlier where we live," U'vi added.
"Fine fine. I don't know many games though. I'm not sure how fun I can be. Maybe a story. One of my tales of the sea where I slayed Buburya the Bast-"
"JAANU!," L'ankeo called out, ears folded an eyes narrowed.
Lolomori stiffened as he was scolded by his wife, "Right. Yes ma'am! Perhaps something else then."
"Toy- Papa," U'rhan Tia's voice rang out, apporaching with some sort of stick.
Lolomori raised a brow, picking up the stick before jumping as it glowed in his hands. "Welcome to Pop-It! The #1 electrope toy in the world! Just follow the commands and try not to mess up. If you here a 'Bzzzzt!' You're out!"
"By the Twelve, it talks," Lolomori breathed out, waving it about in his hands.
U'nyx nodded. "You're suppoed to follow directions. Daddy brought it back, but he's not very good at it. It's supposed to be U'rahn Tia's toy, but he likes to share."
"I love- my sisters!" U'rahn Tia cheered.
Lolomori raised his brow at the mammet then shook his head. "Alright. It can't be that hard. What do I do? Push this button?" he asked, hitting the Pop-It button.
"Alright! Let's begin! Pop-It!" the machine ordred.
"Well, I just did that," Lololmori said before getting a loud 'bzzzt' from the machine.
"Ouch. Sorry, you lose! Better luck next time," the machine said.
Lolomori glowered at the stick as his great-grandaughters giggled about him. "What a swiving piece of sh-"
"Oooh! Papa Toto said a bad word," U'klynt teased.
"Try again," U'nyx encouraged.
Repeating his actions, Lolmori hit the button. Thinking to best the machine before it could get in it's first action, he popped the button quickly…only to get another buzzer signaling his failure. "Hells."
"You gotta wait for the toy to tell you what to do," U'vi explained.
"I know that," Lolomori grunted trying again.
"Pop-It!" the machine instructed, this time Lolmori waited and then did as he was told before it continued, "Twist it!"
"What does it mean twist it? There's nothing to twist," Lolmori balked. Before the girls could explain, the buzzer once more signaled his failured. Enraged, he let out a yell then raised the toy way above his head, threatening to toss it onto the ground.
"Toy…" U'rahn Tia's voice cut through, filled with a sadness that cut through to Lolomori's heart.
As Lolomori swung his arm down, he looked into U'rahn Tia's eyes, sensing the life behind them. Before he could let go, he stopped himself and hugged the toy into his body, opting to hit himself with in the chest. He fell on hiss ass, the girls giggling as he thudded on the ground. Once settled, Lolomori looked up then handed the toy back to U'rahn Tia. "I think your Papa Totoo is too old for these new games you kids have."
"Toy! Thank you- Papa," U'rahn Tia said, hugging the toy then holding it over his head in awe before sitting down with it.
"Right then…," Lolomori said carefully before crossing his legs. "I think my original plan was best. A story. How about how I met your Mi'nani?" Lolomori asked before patting his lap, letting U'rahn Tia sit in it with his coveted Pop-It. The girls all gathered around, all looking like little L'lolamos to him. "Well, back in my day I was known the Bleeding Onion and I sailed the high seas-"
Lolomori continued his story able to not only captivate his girls but his grandson in his lap with his tail of failure, rebirth, and heroism. By the time he rounded about to him marrying L'aneko, the girls had all nodded off, leaning against one another, ready to be retrieved by their aunties and taken inside. U'rahn Tia still in his arms, he got up then started to carry him inside with the others.
"They are all so precious," L'aneko hummed, rocking U'bylti in her arms before laying her down "All reflections of our beautiful daughter."
"This one is a spitting image of his father. Though, that seems to be intended," Lolomori said, leaning over the sleeping mammet, "The world has changed so much from my time at sea."
"Do you feel like you've missed out on it, my sweet Onion Knight?" L'ankeo as she knelt down beside her husband.
"Naw. I"d have spent my life or pillaging and terrorizing the seas and probably found myself on the bad end of a blade if I hadn't found myself marooned here," Lolomori laughed before going quiet. "No, I mean, that I'm glad I found a way to give back to the world after spending so long taking from it. Our daughter, our grandson, and now our great-grandchildren.
"If you had passed up this washed up pirate, there may not have been all these wonderful people in this world. Even this strange boy, there's somethin' in him born from our love. Isn't that…just…swell."
L'aneko fluttered her ears then put her arms around her husband. "Now now. You'll wake the children if you start to blubber jaanu."
NPCs: Koana, Wuk Lamat
Original Characters: Yule Morning, Tereel Ja, Noel Kenterammnsyn, Y'zel Tia
Expansion: Dawntrail
Rating: M
Summary: Why did it happen?
Yule's heart sank. They loved Noel. It terrified they. Even if there had been a spark of attraction from the moment they'd met. Though Noel's initial reticence and slow to warmth, from the beginning he'd tolerated Yule's gravitation toward him. Much more than any stranger should. Though they'd convinced themselves that their attraction was born from wanting Noel's reluctant attention, it was something deeper.
Their mind wondered back to the morning. After Yule has cleaned up and dressed back in the borrowed clothes Tereel Ja had given them, they were left alone to talk again.
"You mentioned Y'zel Tia was your professor. It had dawned on me what their discipline was. While a bit lost on me, I did understand when he talked of soulmates," Tereel Ja said. "I am just curious how you came to work for them.
Yule blinked. "Well, I didn't. I studied archeology in hopes of getting to travel the world. Now that I think of it, I didn't have any of his classes. We met by chance one day when I was doing lab work for another Professor in the anthropology department. It was so brief and yet, before I knew it, I was approached with an offer from there to travel to the Occult Crescent as the department's representation."
"I see…," Teerel Ja trailed, looking up at Kenteramm's map of Eorzea.
"Is something wrong?"
"Forgive me. It is just…," Tereel Ja said, "In my time with them, I found them to be a very deliberate person. If you you were chosen, I can't help but worry it was for a reason.
"I love you," Noel's voice cut through.
"Huh?" Yule breathed out, coming out of the memory then looking up just in time for Noel to shift his avoidant gaze. Realizing what was said they leaned into the other's chest. "Oh…I love you too."
They watched Noel frown then lean in as he closed his eyes. "Can I kiss you?"
Yule hummed then lifted into the kiss, wrapping their arms around Noel's neck, chasing comfort. "You don't need to ask anymore. If you want to kiss me, just do it," they said, pulling their hand from their bag to run over Noel's chest, head resting against his shoulder.
"Right. Good to know," Noel said, flexing under their palm.
Yule closed their eyes, trying to ignore the sinking feeling in his stomach. They loved Noel, no matter the circumstances. This had to be true. They wanted it to be more than anything.
As they landed, Yule quickly disembarked from the balloon ahead of Noel as he fished around for their list for Gerolt. "We've got the meteroite. Now we need…rroneek glue and a few different kinds of dark matter. The latter we should be able to find listings for I think. The glue though…not exactly sure. Rode a couple as a kid but not sure where the glue even comes from. Guess we could make arrangements to travel to Shalooni…."
Yule turned, tucking loose hair back into their knit cap. "Didn't you say something about someone taking an interest in rroneek lately?" they asked, recalling something like that at dinner yesterday.
"Ah. Well. I wouldn't want to bother him is all," Noel said, awkwardly shuffling.
"Why? If they have you need what you need, I'm sure they would not mind helping," Yule pressed, knowing well Noel would not think to ask for help otherwise.
Yule watched as Noel raked his hand through then followed his gaze up toward Vollok Shoonsa. "Well, it's Koana…er, Vow Koana."
"Oh. I see," they hummed, finding themself wandering closer toward Noel, resisting the urge to reach out and hold his arm.
"I guess it wouldn't hurt to go ask," Noel said, taking Yule to a small aetheryte so that they could blip to the plaza that overlooked the city.
Yule looked up at Vollok Shoonsa, amazed at how large it was, though they supposed the previous Dawnservant needed to be accommodated. They thought of Noel coming her as a child, running around with the Promises. Happy. Their hand snaked into their bag, squeezing the little Hyena again, as if someone of the nostalgia might sponge out from it.
The doors of the palace opening, they looked down and saw a familiar Miqo'te wandering out. "Professor Y'zel?" they called out, hurrying forward.
"Oh. Yule. Is the Occult Crescent expedition already complete?" he asked.
Yule shook their head, "No. I took a brief reprieve to assist Kenterammn's son gathering materials to help augment his weapon to make venturing on the island easier."
"I see…," Y'zel said, eyes flitting toward Noel briefly
Yule swallowed, noticing the look and stepping in front of Noel to break his view. Turning, they looked up to Noel, frowning as he turned away. "Go on ahead. I'll catch up," they said softly before flushing as Noel leaned down for a kiss. Noel stopped short, instead, reaching in to squeeze their hand before heading inside the palace.
"So that is the brooding Noneel Ja," Y'zel mused aloud. "Or Noel, as he likes to be called."
"Yes. How do you…know that?" Yule asked cautiously, turning back toward Y'zel. "And why did you recommend me for this expedition? We met once before…I hadn't even had a class with you."
Y'zel fluttered their ears then held himself about the waist. "Why would I not know the son of the man that is heading the expedition on? I also traveled with his mother during the rites," he said before flicking his tail, eyes slowly rising to meet theirs. "As for you…if you're asking, I imagine you already know."
Yule stepped back, holding their hand to their chest. "I do not."
"Oh. I thought your Echo might have told on me," he sighed. "Well, either way, I've shown my hand."
"I don't have the Echo," Yule protested, shaking their head.
"Don't you? You've not had any dreams? Daydreams? Premonitions? Nightmares even? Though perhaps they've not awaken…still…" Y'zel said, looking Yule over.
Yule thought about the recent dreams he'd had. About Eurydice and Orpheus…and how they twisted into the places that reflected the lost cities converged upon the crescent, easily dismissed as just his mind working out his recent work. "Those are just dreams…right? How could you possibly know-?"
"I have soul-sight," Y'zel answered bluntly. "And your is…the strangest I've seen so far. It's dense like those with the Echo…but…it's leaking out of you for lack of a better word. Going somewhere else and coming back into you like you're in two places at once. "
"Like…I have a twin?"
"No," Y'zel laughed before looking down solemnly, "Like your soul is broken."
"Broken…I'm..I'm not broken! There's nothing wrong with me!" Yule near shouted.
Y'zel looked into the sky. "I do not know what you've learned of the reality of our existence since the Final Days; however, I can assure you that all of us are a little broken," he started before putting his hand on Yule's shoulder. "And made whole by those who enrich our lives and fill in the pieces of who we once were to be a person familiar yet new in the now."
Yule brushed the other's hand off their shoulder, "And yet you find me lacking."
"No. I find you interesting," Y'zel corrected, "Something or someone out there is calling your soul…I have my theories…"
"I don't care about your theories! I am my own person," Yule huffed.
Y'zel frowned then reached into their bag then held out a black and white journal. "I have difficulty articulating myself. Maybe you'll make more sense of what I've written down doing my own research. I had come here to represent Doma in congratulating Vow Koana and Promised V'anille on their coming child, but also to give this to you anyway."
Yule stared at the journal before taking it. Opening it, they flipped through the other's notes, finding pictures etched inside of the four lost cities and their name as well as Noel's scribbled a few times in it. "Oracle of Void…Oracle of White…Oracle of Salt…and the Oracle of Sight…," they read.
"All named…," Y'zel stared.
"Yule…" they breathed out. "That doesn't make any sense! If these people existed as you imply, then it would have just been a coincidence that they share a name. Even then, you can't mean to imply I'm any of these just because I share a name."
"Some patterns repeat throughout time," Y'zel shrugged.
"If that's the case, they'd have to be one person…but how could that be if all of these civilizations ended in tragedy all close together?" Yule protested.
"That is exactly my thought…and theory. With the calamities, those of us who came before inherited denser souls from our counter parts," Y'zel said, words going over Yule's head, "Yet, there's nothing that says they always can reunite in the aetherial sea. Perhaps there are more than one of us walking about at the same time needing the right conditions to become one. So..if that's the case…there's at least X more of you…trying to connect to you but seemingly unable to for some reason."
Yule shook their head, thrusting the notebook into their bag. "That's insane! Forgive me, but you're speaking nonsense."
Y'zel looked up, wiggling his ears then holding himself once more. "Perhaps you're right. And yet…Noel is in that book to is he not? You can also cross reference many of my notes with actual texts to help back the history at least. Persons named Yule did exist. Persons named Noel also existed at the same time, in those places, together."
Yule grit their teeth. "His mother mentioned you were interested in soulmates. Are you telling me that he and I are?"
Y'zel grew quiet. "I want to believe with every ounce of me that is true. That the gravity of our past guarantees us connections in our future…but..." he trailed, voice graveling, "As I said before we are shaped by our connections here and now. To expect things to work out exactly as they had done before is reckless and could drive us to madness to recapture. Let life happen and rejoice in the familiar, but always leave an open heart to welcome the new.
"If you wish to abandon he expedition, I understand. I mislead you with my intentions despite mutual interests aligning. Pray forgive me,"Y'zel said with a bow before brushing their bangs from their eyes. "I must depart for now, to be with my children; but. I will check in again, if you will have me."
Y'zel stepped back, seeming to channel their aether so that they may teleport elsehwere. Yule couldn't tell what they were feeling…angry, scared, confused. Shaking their head they looked up. "Are Noel and I…are we soulmates?"
"I cannot say what you feel. That is for you both to decide on your own," Y'zel said as they started to radiate aether to teleport. "They say eyes are the window to the soul. For me, I look into those I love and see those I've loved. In the end though, it's up to the both of you to determine if it means anything."
With that, they were gone. Yule repeated Y'zel's words to themself, staring at the spot the other had once stood then screamed in frustration. It was all nonsense to them. And yet his magnetism to Noel…that was something greater at work.
"Pardon, but are you alright?"
Yule looked up as a concerned Landsguardman approached them. They gave a little nod. "Sorry. I got a little frustrated there for a moment," they explained before looking up at the palace. "Actually, could you help me find someone? My friend went ahead of me to seek Vow Koana and his Promised."
The Landsgaurdman scratched their head. "Er, who exactly?"
"Noel Keterammnsyn, er…Noneel Ja."
Nodding, the Landsgaurdsman turned, motioning them to follow inward to the palace and up the grand staircase. Approaching a room, Yule was made to wait outside before being motioned to come inside. They immediately went to Noel's side as he asked. "Have you met the Vow and Promised?"
Yule shook their head then bowed deeply. "It is an honour to meet you."
"Please, there's no need to bow," the Promised assured them, waving at Yule to straighten up.
"Sorry," Yule apologized.
Vow Koana crossed his arms, looking to Noel with flattend ears. "Are you going to actually introduce us?"
Yule felt Noel's attention shift toward them then quickly away as they looked up to him. "Ah. Right. This is Yule Morning. My…," Noel said, before seeming to freeze up. Yule swallowed, feeling the slightest bit anxious that Noel would dismiss them as a colleague. "Their…my partner," Noel said before shaking their head. "My romantic, parter that is."
Yule let their hand find Noel's, relief coming over them as Vow Koana perked his ears in surprised. "Really? Well, it is nice to meet you , Yule. I am Noneel Ja's oldest friend."
"Right. Hewent with you to Old Sharlayan. I am a student there myself. It's a wonder the three of us didn't bump into one another before," Yule said, trying to recall the Vow's face amoung any of their classmates.
"It's not hard to run in different circles," Noel said with a shrug.
"Is that Noneel Ja I hear? Brother! Are you inviting friends over while locking me away," a woman's voice called out from the hall.
"We're in my study Lamaty'i. Please don't yell," Koana called out before dropping beside V'anille, burying his face in his hands. "This is quickly becoming a party."
"Your sister and two friends is hardly a party," V'anille sighed, "Though I would not mind something sweet."
Yule watched as Koana shot up to his feet. "I will gather a tray of the finest Turali delicacies."
"Calm down my love," V'anille laughed. "You do not need to fetch me my every whim."
"You need a leash for him V'anille or he'll end up having the whole city ready to fetch your every whim," a tall Xbr'all laughed as she entered the room, spotting Noel then hurrying over to pick him up and give him a squeeze. "Noneel Ja!"
Yule watched as who they assumed was Vow Wuk Lamat embraced their boyfriend, giving him an audible crack as he protested. "Lamaty'i please."
"Oh, sorry," Wuk Lamat said, dropping Noel then looking at Yule. "Who is your friend?"
Yule started to answer, only to be cut off by Koana.
"Noneel Ja's sweetheart," Koana hummed.
Oooh. Everyone is pairing off. First Erenville. Then Koana. If Noneel Ja's managed to find someone that means it's not long before the love bug gets me. No thank you," Wuk Lamat said, shaking her head.
"Oh. But Lamaty'i, you forget you have a suitor," V'anille teased.
"You shush," Lamaty'i breathed out.
V'anille hummed, "You're right. I should have said suitors."
"You are the worst brother! Even worse than Zoraal Ja," Lamaty'i hissed.
"Who!?" Koana demanded, "Anille. This isn't something you keep from me."
"Shush. Shush. Shush. Shush. It is not true. No Way," Lamaty'i said, shaking her head furiously before looking to Noel. "Your friend, Noel! Please, introduce us."
Noel chuckled. "This Yule. They're helping my old man with the Occult Crescent research. And, like Koana said, their also my partner," he said, putting his arm around Yule's shoulder.
Yule flushed then started to bow, before realizing they were in an informal setting again. "It's a pleasure to meet you Vow Wuk Lamat," they said.
"Please! Any friend of Noneel Ja's can call me Lamaty'i. We are family. I have so many stories I can tell you," Wuk Lamat said, grinning at Noel.
"Sister, don't over excite yourself. You're still injured," Koana sighed.
"My bloodied paws have not affected my memory Koana. Stop fussing already," Wuk Lamat huffed.
Yule hugged onto Noel as everyone talked then wondered if Noel had even appraised them of why they had come in the first place. "Um. Did you ask about the glue?" Yule whispered.
"Yeah. We can get it in town. Hopefully we've got the pel," Noel said, fumbling around in his pockets
Koana sighed. "I will send you with a letter and they can redeem the pel from our coffers," he said, turning to get parchment from his desk.
"Thanks man," Noel said.
Yule let their mind wander as the friends caught up. They thought of what Y'zel had said. About the Echo. About a potential connection. About being soulmates. Anxiety rising, they hugged onto Noel, tightly, rubbing their face into his strong arm, comforting himself silently as everyone talked.
"You okay?" Noel asked, seeming to notice their increasing clinginess.
"It's nothing," they lied, "I just was hoping we'd get back to the cabins soon."
Noel nodded then turned red, though Yule was unsure what they'd said to embarrass him. "I hate to cut this short but we traveled a lot more than expected these past couple days," said, voice cracking.
Yule looked up at Noel confused by his sudden change in demeanor, sounding almost excited to leave. They were increasingly panicked, thinking about Noel and themself alone and what they'd say to him about what Y'zel had said.
Koana raised a brow toward him. "You don't want to stay for dinner? That's unlike you."
"Come on Noneel Ja. I got the spices from Radz-at-Han that I bet will make even you sweat," Wuk Lamat said with a big grin.
"Another time. We should get back," Noel answered before handing Yule the letter.
After a few lingering goodbyes, Noel guided them back into the city. They took their time returning to the cabins despite his proposed urgency, stopping to collect their rroneek glue where Koana had directed them. Arriving back at their cabin, Yule moved toward the dresser, gripping the edges of it as they tried to calm down while Noel removed his boots behind him.
Noel could be his soulmate. That would explain their intense attraction. Reaching for Y'zel's notebook in their bag, then felt something soft, Noel's hyena. Pulling it out, they set it on the dresser then smiled softly at it before removing their hat and putting it on it.
"Guess you took a liking to him," Noel whispered into their ear as he wrapped his arm around them and kissed on his ear.
They jumped then looked up into their reflection, looking so…right. "I…I didn't mean to take him. I mean. I did," Yule explained, "I grew a little attached I suppose. I wasn't allowed things like this…and I figured if he traveling with you, you could just take him back."
Yule trembled, a little afraid Noel might call his bluff but instead he laughed. "It's okay, it's okay," he assured them before moving his lips to their neck. "That's…what we're supposed to do right? Share things."
"Noel…," Yule whispered, watching Noel move lower, moving the collar of their shirt down. Y'zel's words returned…To be able to look into Noel's eyes and know if this was real. If they held this connection. If it were automatic…and if it was automatic, ordained? Was it real? Y'zel had said it wasn't a guarantee too. Yule felt stupid for letting the other get into his head but had to know.
Noel didn't answer, lightly biting on their shoulder making them gasp as electricity shot through them. "Yule…," he breathed out before pressing firmly into them from behind.
Yule realized why Noel had been so eager to return to the cabins, feeling him raised within his pants and rubbing into them from behind. They wanted to turn, to kiss him and forget the unease they felt.
"Noel. When did you start having feelings for me," they asked, needing to know.
"I uh…well," Noel started before going quiet. As Noel feared he answered, "From…the moment it met it feels like."
"And you trust that!?" Yule nearly yelled, shaking their head as Noel let them go.
"What?" Noel asked, sounding hurt.
"Sorry…sorry…," Yule mumbled, hanging their head. "I just…feel the same. And the realization is a bit frightening…And I've been having…," they started, unsure how to explain his dreams and fears. They shook their head then looked up at his reflection before realizing there could be a way to know for sure. "No, never mind that. Just look up…into the mirror."
Yule watched as Noel smiled and reached out to play with their braid before absently looking into the mirror. Yule shook, looking deep into Noel's horrified eyes and seeing the glint of something familiar…something they'd seen his dreams, or Echos. And then Noel screamed.
Noel screamed so loud Yule though the other was dying. He clutched his head then fell down to his knees. "I've killed you…I've killed you…you're going to die," Noel repeated.
Yule dropped to their knees, reaching out to gently grab at Noel's wrists to try and pry his hands off his head, his fingers clawing into his scalp and cheeks. "No. I'm not," Yule said softly, shaking as Noel started to cry. "Noel…I-I'm sorry. I just had to be sure...I…I didn't think it would be the same," they panicked. "B-But didn't you see? Did you not see?"
Noel blubbered, inconsolable and rocking in place. Yule stood quickly then looked around before spying a Noel's bag. Reaching inside, they tugged out a shirt then tore it before hurrying back to tie it about Noel's head, blindfolding him. "Please…Noel, it's okay. I'm here," Yule breathed out before leaning in to kiss him.
Noel gasped out, "No…every one has died. I can't…" before being silenced by Yule's kiss.
Yule jumped, Noel wrapping his arms tightly about them, hungrily returning the kiss and pulling them down on the ground. The distraction working, Yule let Noel lay them on their back, clumsily exploring their mouth as his breathing steadied. Kiss broken, they both gasped for air and held each other.
"I'm sorry, Noel. I'm here. I'm not going anywhere," Yule breathed out, raking their hands through his hair before leaning up to kiss on his jaw before cuddling in close. They laid there together…so long Yule could not tell how much time passed.
"That was really fucked up," Noel growled eventually, still shaking. "Why would you think that was okay?"
Yule flinched at Noel's sharp tone. Running their hands down Noel's chest, they thought of what they could say to remedy the situation. "I didn't think it would be the same…no, I guess I did. I just…I wanted to know if we're…in love…"
Noel frowned then shook his head. "In a day I've woven you into my life and have let you get closer to me than I've ever let anyone…and you betrayed my trust. I don't…I'm not…" he started before lowering himself onto Yule.
Yule closed their eyes, leaning their cheek into Noel's, flushing as they could still feel Noel rather aroused and pressing into their thigh. They were terrified, feeling as if the other was about to say it was over…but Noel wrapped their arms around them instead.
"You can't trust me," Noel whispered.
"What?" Yule whimpered.
Noel lifted, palming for Yule's head then stroking their hair. "The one person in this world who should have loved you the most hurt you the most. I can't even look you in the eyes, that can't be a good feeling."
Yule's eyes widened, the thought having never crossed their. They smiled weakly, Noel's softening assuring them that he was coming down off his anxiety, easing their own. "I don't care about that…My reasons are…complicated, yes. I just, wanted to see if…Gods this is embarrassingly stupid!"
"Just say it," Noel cooed, kissing on Yule's ear.
"I wanted to see if we were soulmates…" Yule admitted.
Noel remained still then laughed softly. "It…feels like that doesn't it? We somehow fell perfectly into one another."
Yule ran their hands up Noel's chest then turned their head, kissing Noel. "And…you didn't see…," they started to ask, unable to finish less they return Noel into a erratic state.
"I don't need to see. I know," Noel assured them, once more pressing into Yule's thigh, "I love you. It doesn't need to mean anything else. We're soulmates, great? That doesn't make this moment any better, does it?"
"I guess…it doesn't," Yule said before letting out a small gasp as Noel bit on their neck. Shaking, they clung to Noel, blushing violently as he sucked lightly on his flesh before pulling away. "Noel…"
"In case you needed some visual proof we belong together," he whispered, "You're mine, Yule."
NPCs: Vrtra|Varshahn, Azdaja
Original Characters: Fuyu'li cen Zwahn, Ahi'a
Expansion: Dawntrail(Irrelevant)
Rating: General
Summary: Fuyu'li finds his place in Radz-at-Han.
Fuyu'li wandered through the streets of Radz-at Han, Azdaja drifting behind him while Ahi'a stayed perched upon his shoulder. Vrtra was busy, meeting with a Garlean envoy and he was still not ready to meet with those of his beloved homeland…Though, Radz-at-Han had taken that title now, granted there were some things he missed. The snow. His family. His sense of duty.
Despite the lack of snow, he did have the other two now. He'd gained a lover, a sister, a son, and well, everyone in Radz-at-Han had unflinchingly welcomed as their Satrap's beloved without raising a single objection to his nationality. And in that vein, he loved them all and wished to serve the country that took him in when he had nothing. Yet that was hard to do on his own. Vrtra was in tune with the needs of his people. A natural leader. Fuyu'li was better at taking orders.
He of course offered his expertise in The High Crucible of Al-Kimiya, confident enough in his knowledge of alchemy to be of use. Still, it wasn't enough. It could never be enough. And these thoughts persisted.
As he wandered along with the little dragons, he felt eyes on them. Ears perking, he turned and saw a figures move behind some crates. Swooping ahead, Azdaja floated along then snorted light, tickling flames to chase out their little stalkers.
Two children hurried out, a boy and girl, letting out little startled screams as they hurried over to Fuyu'li. The boy being the eldest looked up at him then tugged at his shirt. "Mr. Fuyu'li, when is Varshahn going to come play with us?"
Fuyu'li knelt down, smiling softly. "The Satrap is very busy today, but, I think tomorrow will be good. He does get so restless when he doesn't make time to visit his friends," he assured the boy as Azdaja perched on his free shoulder, nearly toppling him over.
"Oh…I thought we would get to see him today. He hasn't played with us since he got back from his trip across the sea," the boy sighed, hanging his head.
"Well, I will make sure he finds time soon," Fuyu'li said, standing upright, balancing the two dragonlings on his shoulders the best he could.
The children nodded, turning to go before two little growls echoed from them. Fuyu'li's ears perked, knowing the pangs of hunger well. Azdaja letting out a scree, the children stopped and turned around, making sure she wasn't going to flare at them again.
"Ah. You know, I think Azdaja is hungry. Why don't we all go find something to eat," Fuyu'li suggested, wincing as Azdaja screed in agreement in his ear. "We can go up to the Windweft and get some fruit."
"We don't have any money," the boy said, turning out his pockets.
"Don't worry. I will make sure it is taken care of and that you can get as much as you want," Fuyu'li assured him, watching both children light up.
He led them along the paths to Windweft, only getting lost once. Arriving at the orchard, he found the nearest attendant and asked for any fruit they had handy. Receiving a small box, he brought it to the children and let them help themselves while he peeled two and broke them apart for Azdaja and Ahi'a to peck at.
Watching the children ravenously tear into the food, he flit his tail upward. "Children! Don't eat the rind. And slow down! There's plenty for you," he assured them.
"Sorry," the two echoed, sitting down to carefully peel at their fruit.
Sensing something was amiss, he tilted his head. "Why are you not with the other children today? Is it not the schooling hour?" he asked.
The boy furrowed his brow before eating a slice of his fruit. After whiping his mouth, he shook his head. "We can't go. We've got to help our parents," he said.
"Is that why you were looking for the Satrap? Do you need help?" Fuyu'li asked, tail thrashing.
"Our parents our fishers. The rainy season is really good for us normally, but the air made them sick. They haven't been able to go to their boats. They just lay in bed and we bring them water and do errands while they try to get better," the boy admitted. "I would go fishing myself, but I'm not big enough to go in the boat in myself and my sister is too little to be much help at all…"
The little girl stuck out her tongue at her brother, but didn't object. Fuyu'li frowned, handing the boy another fruit as he finished his first. "And so you have been waiting on Varshahn to be home because he would be able to help. Is that it?"
The boy and girl nodded. Fuyu'li closed his eyes, thinking for a moment. "Alright then. I think I can help. If you go to the Crucible, you may ask for medicine and say that Fuyu'li sent you. They will charge my accounts for it. Meanwhile, if you give me your address I will ensure some food is sent for you all until your parents are well enough to return to work."
"Really? You'd do that for us Mr. Fuyu'li?" the boy asked before finishing his second fruit.
"Of course. I might not have an official position, but, as the Satrap's betrothed I should make sure that his family is being taken care of in the way he would," he said with a little nod, getting a scree of approval from Azdaja. "Please, take these fruits to your family, the citrus will help them. I will go make arrangements. Though, I will need your address. Do you know your letters?"
"Of course I do," the boy said with a nod.
Fuyu'li smiled then walked with the children until they found someone with parchment and a pen. Getting their address, he pocketed it and looked two the two. "Okay. Off you go. Give your parents their share of the fruit first before going to the crucible. I will take care of the rest and ensure Varshahn comes to see you tomorrow."
The two nodded then hurried off with their box of fruit before stopping to turn and run back to hug him about the waist. "Thank you Mr. Fuyu'li "
Fuyu'li blinked then pat both of the children in the head before they hurried back on their way. Ahi'a let out a yawn after, making Fuyu'li 's ears perk. "Is it your nap time already? I will return you to your father and-
"I am here now," Varshahn's voice sounded out.
Fuyu'li turned, finding the elder siraculum of Varshahn staring down at him, offering him a smile. "What terrible timing. There were two children here that wanted to see you badly."
"I caught the end of it in my way down to you. I shall endeavour to visit them first thing tomorrow; though, it sounds like they didn't need me at all," Varshahn said, letting his sister flutter over to sit on his shoulder.
"Well. I only did what I thought you would do in this situation. Forgive me if I over promised -"
"You have no cause for apology," Varshahn interrupted before titling Fuyu'li's chin up. "You have made my family yours."
"Yes, well…of course. If it were not for your kindness that of the city's people I would have been dead and lost. There is no greater honour than service to your country and it's people and I wish to live by your example," Fuyu'li said before pushing his glasses up his nose. "They are, as you say, family."
Varshahn smiled. "I ask that you live by my side, not my example. Equals in love…for each other and for the people of Radz-at-Han."
Fuyu'li nodded. "Right then. Of course," he said before folding his ears back timidly as Varshahn leaned in to kiss him.
Both Ahi'a and Azdaja shirked, flapping their wings then taking to the air. Sighing, Varshahn looked up. "We are mates. There is nothing wrong with us displaying our affection as is customary for mortals," he said before watching as the two dragons soared away to join his true form. "Family is also sometimes difficult."
Fuyu'li laughed the took Varshahn's hand. "Let them go rest with you. For now, we should go arrange meals for that family. We can deliver them ourselves, that way the children can see you too."
"Very well," Varshahn said squeezing Fuyu'li's hand to wander forward toward the markets.
Fuyu'li smiled, tail swaying as they walked together, proud to be of help.
Featuring: @saesama's Klynt Gohtaywn and @scrollsfromarebornrealm 's WWAU
NPCs: Themis
Expansion: Dawntrail
Rating: T
Summary: Themis just wants to a second to unwind.
Notes: Thanks Saesama for the line edits too! QWQ!
References MiqoMarch Entry Sky
Themis exchanged polite nods with Klynt as she served him a cold mug of beer. He usually avoided visiting the Saltlick , not wanting to make the patrons uncomfortable with his presence; however, the priest found himself in want of a good meal and crisp drink now and then. More often than not he'd come for the latter.
His wedding was on the horizon and his soon to be mother-in-law having sent invitations from Stonewood all the way out to Tulliyolal. Extravagance. Family. This was something he was unused to since he left the life the Lahabrea had provided for him, and even then, that had not had the same warmth.
No, he'd left for a life modesty and repentance to the old god for his prior misdeeds. It was to be Zodiark and himself. Love was reserved for his flock and the good people who lived in Stonewood, believers or otherwise. They were to be his only family. His joy was to be found in acts and service to the community.
But then there was Rrahnald…
Rrahnald who had stumbled into his quiet humble life, boistrous and vibrant. Who had warmed his cooled heart. Who frustrated him. Marvled him. Loved him. Made him feel things he'd naught thought he deserved. Things he'd forgotten that he even could feel.
Themis took a generous drink from his mug then sat it back down, face lightly flushed. In all those wonderful things, there was one thing that frightened him more than how much Rrahnald loved him: his reckless need to risk his life as a vigilante.
His worry had increased tenfold. Mixed with all the pomp and circumstance that Dulia-Chai had intended for the coming ceremony, his mind had been more scattered than normal. He only felt safe now during the day when he knew Rrahnald would be playing the dutiful son for his parents, and night when he was in bed at his side. Themis had tried to voice his fears; however, it fell deaf on a young man who still yet thought he were invincible, getting only assurances that he'd be fine. Even after taking a bullet through the shoulder, Rrahn did not want to back down from his nights as The Ridin' Lion with the Night Pride. So noble and heroic…yet so naive and foolhardy. That was the man he loved.
Perhaps, this was why he'd come to the Saltlick. There was a certain warmth about it. If the Church was a part the soul of the community, the Saltlick had to be the heart. Though it seen its share of troubles, it was inviting, and intended to be so. That is what Themis told himself at least as he finished his beer, sliding back to request another for when the patroness had time.
Left to people watch, rather, people listen so that might not misconstrue his interest for judgment, Themis rested his chin on his fist and absobed the conversation of a hhestarro and Shetona having a conversation just a few stools down from him.
"Been quiet these past few nights. The rustlers are given the boys and I a reprieve. Old man Chai said he'd give us a large bonus if our head count doesn't fall before the weddin'" the hhestarro said, nursing a double shot of whiskey.
"The Night Pride has been a bit more active from what I hear. The towns been getting a reputation as a place not to be trifled with. It's been good for the main trading route into Yyasulani. Bandits are few and far between with these youngins' playin' cowboy. I keep them in my prayers now that the gods see them safe," the Shetona responded, cutting into a large fried mushroom.
Themis smiled, giving another nod to Klynt as she refilled his mug. It was good to hear that things were quiet, moreso that folks were looking out for Rrahnald and the others.
"Yeah. These quiet delights though invite other sorts of mischief," the Hhestarro continued, waving over Klynt for another round. "Thank ya ma'am. Anyroads, on my ride a half-moon ago I spied a couple heading up Mount Loazensasaya."
"Oh? That is not uncommon, is it? Even my tribe pays visits and still have small ceremonies up there," the Shetona said.
"They sure were having a ceremony up there. Could hear them across the valley goin' at it," the hhestarro said.
Themis choked on a drink, ears turning red. Rrahnald had swore no one would have heard them up there in their first night of passion.
"Oh. That has not been done for a long time," the Shetona said, seeming unsurprised.
The hhestarro tipped his hat down, looking toward his friend. "Don't tell me they weren't up there for some just quick fun."
Themis hung his head, ears burning as the men spoke.
"Well, I'd say you would no better than I. It is my understanding a tribe of hhestarro proclaimed thier love for one to the gods of the sky and wind," the Shetona has answered.
He'd remember Rrahn saying something along those lines; however, most of it had been lost to the memory of what physically had transpired.
"Yeah….Yeah, my grandpappy had told me about that…though if I'm not mistaken that tribe was scattered about a score ago. Not many around to remember that sort of thing, let alone peform it, right?" the Hhestarro asked.
"Well…scattered is the operative word. Though the tribe has long disbanded, they are long from gone. I hear…," the Shetona said, looking around before leaning in, "I hear that the mayor's wife ran around with them back in the day. That son of hers is getting married right?"
"Yeah, well. The boy's adopted. Though, if you ask me they sure do look alot alike for not being kin," the Hhestarro said.
"Ain't nobody askin you," Klynt said, firmly dropping two shots infront of the gossiping men, "We don't go talkin' about our good lady of the town in here. Take these, and drown those thoughts."
"Yes ma'am," the two said in unison.
The two downed their shots then slid them back. A silence grew between them for a moment before the hhestarro returned the prior subject, "Anyroads. The lad probably was taking his beau up there for their rites. Strange though. Thought it was a fertility ritual or somethin'. Two lads…"
Themis shifted in his seat, wanting to evaporate on the spot.
"Fertility yes, but it was more to have the gods bless their union, a private ceremony. It is a popular destination for most for their marriages for that reason. At least for us. There are so many that revere Mount Loazensasaya, no doubt there has been crossover between tribes. For Shetona, two men is not uncommon to see wed," the Shetona said with a little shrug.
"Well, I wasn't sayin' there was somethin' wrong with it. Just didn't know the whole story. Still, no matter how bad I wanted it, I don't think I could find myself buck naked up there in the cold of night. No amount of friction is saving your boys if the weather turns on yah. " the hhestarro chuckled.
The Shetona didn't say anything, instead looking past the hhestarro to where Themis sat, head hung and trying to be as small and inconspicuous as possible. The hhestarro taking note of his friend's gaze.
"Sorry, brother. Didn't mean no disrespect," the hhestarro said, taking note of the robes but otherwise seemingly unaware they were talking about him.
Themis stared into his mug, opening his mouth yet unable to find words.
"Brother Buck here is no prude," Klynt said, leaning over the counter between them, obscuring Themis from view. "If y'all are finished with your meals why don't you go upstairs and play cards. I bet the girls are getting lonely."
"I'd be much obliged ma'am. C'mon," the hhestarro said, dropping a generous amount of coin down. "Take care of the priest too. Need all the blessin' I can get if I'm going up against my stone-faced pal here."
"I'm not that good, you are just that bad," the Shetona sighed, getting up and following his friend upstairs.
Themis exhaled, fishing out his own money. "Take their coin for yourself. I owe you immensely. I should have known better than to indulge Rrahnald's wish but he'd recovered from the bullet wound and made it very hard to say no by making it sound so romantic," he bemoaned.
"I'd say something was very hard to get you up there," Klynt teased, watching Themis's head drop to the table. "I wouldn't worry none. True or not, not many folk would believe you're as wrapped around that boy's finger as you are."
"Yes, well…," Themis said, standing up to leave. "Thank you again."
"No problem. Congratulations too on your elopement!"
Themis groaned, leaving quickly into the night. Once home, he buried himself under the covers, not to be touched by a very confused Rrahn well into the next afternoon where he broke down once again in favour of his love's embrace.
