Stewart @visionarypriest-stewart - Tumblr Blog

D&D AU

As the four of you approach the new town you notice that theyre setting up for the solar festival tomorrow

Oh how convenient

Hush

Jay shot a look in David's direction

It's my story, and if you would prefer to wait around this town uselessly for three days than be my guest or you can suspend your disbelief, Davian.

This was the weekly ritual. Every Thursday night was Dungeon and Dragons night playing through Jay's campaign. They hosted it at Visionary Games since the store was a convenient location between their places. RE. The rich area the other four lived in and the poor ler area David rented a flat in.

Frymri is going to find the nearest town person and ask them what the Solar Festival is.

Thank you Nicholas, you see a young woman on a ladder stringing banners across the street lamps. She acknowledges you but says she's far to busy for idle chatter.

Oh oh oh! Can Hemlock use Mage Hand to string up the banner for her and give her time to talk.

Ross interrupted. His Human Druid running up next to Nick's Dragonborn Warlock to help out in the conversation.

What are the two of you doing?

Elbain the Valiant will look for a nearby shop where he can restock on the party's supplies. I think we used up all our rope in that last dungeon, right?

Gill looked around the table for confirmation as the players glanced to their character sheets and nodded.

Hemlock needs more rations for his familiar while you're at it

Would Elbain know that?

He looks to Jay, the DM shrugs.

Why not. Let's say you saw Hemlock use his last ration to feed his familiar last time and remember it. It would not be fun to spend all day shopping when it can be done in one trip.

I'm going to give Elbain 5 gold pieces before he splits off to cover anything that's for the group. And then tell him "And remember, if you come across an axe with this marking, I'll pay any price for it" while pointing to the tattoo on his arm.

Elbain nods, but obviously we all know about Davian's family axe by now.

It's his thing. I commit to the bit.

And what else will Davian do while the rest of the party moves the plot along.

David leans back in his chair arms crossed in casual challenge. Yes Jay's nickname for him also became his character name because he couldn't bother to think of one.

Maybe he's waiting for an actually interesting plot hook instead of just another sec festival.

How dare you! The solar festival is not a sex festival.

It's not?

Nicholas almost sounded disappointed.

The woman tells Frymri and Hemlock that the Solar festival is a day of celebration in order to appease the sun god so he returns after the winter.

Could sex appease the sun god? Elbain and Hemlock have some growing tension between them

Oh Elbain had other things what grow around Hemlock

Ross lightly slapped Gill on the arm

Aaah. Gill!

Yes. Sex is one way-

Knew it.

But so can other things. Have a little faith in me Davian. I'm sure I can find something to catch you interest.

Just as he said that another patron entered Visionary game store. Due to the position at the table the front door was behind David but right in Jay's eyeline. He smirked and kept an eye and ear out for a way to pull the guy into the game.

@visionarypriest-stewart

visionarypriest-stewart

Boredom had long since taken over Stewart. He had tried to read through the same three chapters for what felt like hours but he just couldn’t turn off and read.

It was only his favourite spots, a quiet cafe that only got busy every now and then, and Ben then he didn’t mind. But today, it seemed everyone and their mother was out. The cafe was crowded and louder than usual. People were standing around the edges of the room just to perch while they drank their drink, or they grouped together in one clump and just kept talking in their own little world.

He tries not to let it get to him, but everything now just seems so much more. The final straw was when a small cluster who were stood next to where he was sat, got over excited and accidentally bumped into him, almost causing him to spill his drink.

“Sorry!”

“It’s fine, I’m going now anyway.”

“Can we have your table?”

He shrugs and puts his book away.

“Sure.”

He gets up, grabs his things and makes his way through the crowd to get out. What surprised him the most, was how much quieter the town was outside. Sure, there was the hustle and bustle of the town, but that was expected, not people shouting over each other to be heard.

He checks his watch and it far too early to go home now, he’d only have the same problem there, and he didn’t fancy playing the piano. I’ve also too early to just sleep it off.

So, Stewart decides to amble around the town. He aimlessly looks into shop windows and he’s almost tempted in to a bookshop, but other catches his eye.

It’s been a long time since he’s played any games, and his therapist did say that maybe he ought to try and socialise more. Perhaps he could go in and ask for game recommendations, or now he thinks of it, maybe there’s some solo games he could purchase, or maybe they have those role playing books where you shooed your own adventure?

He decides to going and ignore what he’s heard from the people playing D&D about some sort of sex festival. Typical. So his last campaign he was in, wasn’t the only ones who were sex obsessed?

He pays it no mind, it’s their game after all. He quietly walks through the shop and looks at the shelves to see what’s there. To his surprise, there are a small selection of the books. He crouches down and looks through them.

Though he tries to pay attention to the books, he can’t help but over hear the first puzzle the players have to encounter.

visionarypreist-david

Getting back into his Dungeon Master theatrical tone Jay continues.

Davian, as you're character looks around he notices-

I didn't roll perception.

Passive perception. You look up while rolling your eyes at the festival and notice that there's not enough banner to finish the walkway. There's a box of supplies but you don't know the pattern.

A puzzle! Babe, is this the one you were making with the-

Don't spoil it, Nick!

See it's not just about sex

Alright, I'll bite. What's so special about the pattern?

Jay smiles and pulls out a miniature version of the banners. A string of triangles in alternating colors. 1 red, 1 yellow, 2 red, 3 yellow, 5 red, 8 yellow...

This doesn't look like any pattern I know.

The other players lean in to look at the strung up colors. Then Jay pulls out a handful of spare triangles.

Frymri and Hemlock can help too if they want. While you boys figure out the pattern I'll roleplay the shop.

David picks up the banner and gets into his character voice. A stereotypical dwarfish Scotsman accent.

Well, lads, if we're going to to stay for the festival we may as well help with the preparations.

Nicholas matches his energy with his own character voice. A slightly rough tone like his throat is used to breathing dragon fire.

Good plan there Davian, but we won't want to mess things up and give them extra work.

Then back into his normal voice he asks.

Can I roll an intelligence check for a hint?

Jay nods.

...8

He smiles but shakes his head and goes back to haggling over rope prices. Ross organized the red and yellow triangles into piles and David gave Jay an appreciative look for the clear effort that went into this puzzle.

When did you get so smart, Jay?

Oh Davian I'm smart when I want to be, and I'm brainless when you make me~

He flirts back.

But flattery won't solve your puzzle.

Can we phone a friend?

Ross asks clearly noticing the nerdy looking guy in glasses who Jay spotted earlier.

I think it's some math thing now but I can't remember the trick. He looks like he'd know.

On the other side of the store the woman behind the counter also notices the new customer. She smiles and waves him over in a friendly manner.

Hi! Welcome to Visionary Games. Have you been in before or would you like a rundown? If you're just here to browse I can also totally stop bothering you. Looking for anything specific?

She nods. Handing him a print out of this month's event calendar

Well we're a game space and shop. Any unwrapped game on the shelf you can play at our tables to try out, but please don't open any wrapped games those are for purchase. That small shelf in the corner is out communal game books also there to try before you commit to buying. We have tables to host games at. Today is Dungeons and Dragons but we have a whole calendar from Magic tournaments, to Pokemon, to even Scrable. So yeah feel free to look around and let me know if you have any questions I'm Stephanie by the way.

When she sees his gaze flick over to Jay's table she adds.

Everyone here is pretty friendly about letting people watch them play if you don't bother anyone. Those guys there are Jay and his boyfriends, they're regulars.

Steph didn't think it mattered too much to go into the details of David being the one EX- ception to the poly boyfriend group.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart gets up and goes over to her.

“Hi, I haven’t been here before, so yeah feel free.”

He says with a soft smile and glances around the place. While he’s listening to her talk, he can hear one kf the players in particular. He wouldn’t usually pay it any mind but he can’t help but be attuned to when someone is faking a Scottish accent.

It’s not half bad though.

He nods along. He really does love D&D, but at the same time he has t played scrabble in years. He’s belting if it didn’t tempt him.

He looks to the table again. Boyfriends?! He’d heard of a polycule before but never really seen one. Let alone a whole group play D&D together. And not at home either.

Shame all of them were taken, the tallest one was pretty cute.

“Thanks for your help., I might just browse for now and see if anything takes my fancy.”

He gives her a nod and wonders over to the shelves again. He supposes he could buy a game. Maybe a couple, maybe he could have a games night? Who would come though?

He sighs and continues to look, careful not to disturb the players too much. As he goes along he can’t help but notice the puzzle they’re doing. He finds he’s looking at it a little too long when the dungeon master catches his eye. He mouthes a ‘Sorry’ and turns away. He’s worked out the puzzle though.

He does everything in his power not to be a know it all and blurt it out.

visionarypreist-david

David starts laying out the triangles just repeating what's already on there. 1,1,2,3,5,8,1,1,2,3,5,8, but clearly that's not right.

Alright that's 50ft of rope. 1 gold piece. And 10 days rations, which won't go far for the 5 of you plus the familiar. At 5 silver each it'll be 5 gold total. 6 gold pieces for the lot.

Thanks for the gold David I only had 2 on me.

Don't mention it. Its food for the group.

We need more money.

We need another quest. One that pays or a dungeon with good loot.

Yeah wait what do we get out of this dumb puzzle anyways?

We help the town.

We get the festival.

We have fun.

Don't be a spoil port because you can't figure it out, Davian.

I'm not-

Hey! Would you want to give us a hand with this puzzle?

Before he can rebutt Ross is waving someone over. For a second David thinks it's going to be Stephanie from the counter. Instead an unfamiliar man walks over to the table. And holy shit he's exactly David's type. Cute, big blue eyes, and glasses. A slight curl to his brown hair, and when he opens his mouth he has the lilt of an accent.

He doesn't want to look like an idiot in front of this guy. Jay smiles.

I don't mind. The more the merrier is best in all things, old sport. Have a seat. What can we call you?

Jay gestures to the empty chair beside David. Nicholas hands the string of bunting to Stewart.

We need to figure out what comes next in the pattern in order to help the townspeople complete the solar festival.

When Stewart explains the sequence it feels so obvious hearing it now. David drops his hand on top of the incorrect patterns he was making.

Brilliant! Wonderful, old sport!

How do we explain this in game?

As you three spread the bunting supplies everywhere you see a man in glasses approach who instantly deduces the solution.

Wow, are you from this town?

Would you like to join our adventuring party?

Guys guys guys. Stewart here just sat down for the one puzzle. He doesn't even have a character sheet don't bombard him with questions.

Then David turns to him.

You've played D&D before, right?

Upon the answer of yes and that he was interested to get back into the game Jay leapt into action.

Nicholas get the man a blank character sheet. Rosencrans find a set of dice. Gilldenstern get my players handbook. Da-

You and the unnecessarily long names.

Davian... Sit there and look pretty.

David scoffed.

That's Nick, Ross and Gill. I'm David.

He offered a handshake hoping his palms weren't sweating like a schoolboy with a new crush.

And Jay, you're forgetting the most important part of adding a new member to the group. The trigger warnings survey.

He pulls the Google form up on his phone and hands it to Stewart.

It starts with simple stuff, phobias, comfort with permanent character death, and then there's... The other stuff.

He scrolls down to the romance section. If they're ok with PC/PC PC/NPC, fade to black vs explicit.

We do have some romance already happening in game, however other aspects can be changed for comfort.This is only a sex gestival if you want it to be. Consent is the most sexy.

When Stewart makes a comment about them dating in real life as well Jay laughs and looks over at David before focusing back on Stewart.

That's also not a requirement, old sport... But if you're interested you're definitely somebody's type.

He smirks.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart turns his head, they want him to help? He didn’t come here to play though.

“Uh, yeah, I guess. My name’s Stewart.”

Well this is awkward. The only seat free was next to the tall guy. He sit down and looks at the puzzle. He tries to keep it humble as he explains.

“You have to add the two previous numbers to the next, so, 5+8=13, so 13+8=21. That’s the next pattern…I think.”

He glances over when the big guy, David, says that he’s only sat down for the puzzle. Something drops in his stomach, guess he doesn’t want him there.

“Yeah, I’ve payed before. Haven’t played for ages, not really found anyone to join with.”

He admits and looks around the table. He’s absolutely ready to make his excuses as leave, but Jay gets him a blank character sheet.

Oh shit, now he has to think of something on the fly.

“Hi.”

Stewart smiles and shakes David’s hand, Then the others. He makes sure it’s not too flimsy and limp. Nothing worse than a limp handshake. And he can’t help but notice how strong David’s is.

He raises an eyebrow at the warning list. He’s never had that before.

He lists that he’s happy for any romances, he doubts it’ll happen though.

“I can’t think of any triggers right now, but if they come up I’ll mention it.”

Usually in game, he can remove himself from the character, and most of the time the characters scenarios fit the setting and time frame.

There was just one player from the last campaign that made things…uncomfortable. Because you know, ‘that’s what the character would do.’

“Stephanie, the lady at the counter said you guys were already dating?”

Stupid, why did he say that? There was no need from him to bring that up. He tries to think of a name and race for his character. He opts for an elf wizard and of course he has a secret past, he’ll maybe send it to Jay if he can keep playing.

But for now, Rowan has just joined the party.

visionarypreist-david

Once the new character was quickly written up Jay glanced at the sheet to note down the details.

Alright, as the three of you are looking in the box trying to figure out the pattern, Davian you suddenly notice it's gotten darker around you as a shadow looks overhead, you turn around and see a tall elven man looking over into the box and back up at the bunting.

It's now David's turn to initiate the scene, act out how they do this puzzle in character and then lead knot getting Rowan to join the party but as he turns to address Stewart in his character voice his mouth snaps shut.

Ross and Gill giggle between themselves and Jay decides to up the ante.

Aw, Davian, has my new friend Stewart here left you speechless.

David takes a breath, and in his normal voice says.

Sorry we didn't mean to get in the way of your-

Are you saying this in character?

Nick asks. Genuinely confused. David grimaces slightly.

Yeah.

But you gave Davian a character voice.

Ross adds helpfully, but oblivious to the problem. David talks slightly through his teeth, unable to look at Stewart in the face.

I'm not going to do a shitty Scottish accent in front of an actual Scotsman.

His focus leaving Stewart in that moment means he's caught off guard when suddenly he hears a posh accent in perfect queens kings English coming from Stewart.

Woah...

I wish I could do character voices that well.

Did you also go to Oxbridge?

David stares at him. At the unspoken invitation to play as he was without judgement. In a way that didn't feel like Stewart was just putting up with something awkward because it was established and he was new. Back in his dwarfs voice he replies.

'Sorry lad, as you can tell we're not from here. Not trying to step on your toes if the bunting is your job. Canea figure out the pattern though.'

Jay smiled at them.

Rowan, the stocky dwarfish man with a beard is speaking to you after you caught him staring at you for some time.

That wasn't-

David protested because Jay made it sound like Davian was enamoured with Rowan but what wasn't intentional. Jay only threw up his hands as if to say "I don't make the rules". He rolls his eyes and focuses back to Stewart.

Okay, Davian is going to hand Rowan one side of the bunting when he strings the other end. And say...

'Good thing you showed up, makes a lot more sense through your smart elf eyes. Names Davian, and yourself'

Hemlock's going to go over and ask Rowan what he knows about the solar festival that made him want to visit for it.

I think Elbain is done in the shop so he's going to step outside and notice the party talking to this new guy and jovially ask.

'I walk away for 5 minutes you replace me already?'

'Noooooo!' Hemlock's going to say 'Your irreplaceable Elbain the Valiant'

'If anything were replacing Hemlock for a better spellcaster'

'You take that back!' Elbain is going to step protectively in front of Hemlock.

Frymri is going to get between them and defuse the situation.

Your patron is pleased at your nonviolence, Frymri.

Nick blushes. It's clear his warlock patron is just a stand in for Jay.

'I was making a joke Elbain. Rowan here helped up finish the decorating, our ticket into the towns good graces and the festival'

The woman from earlier is going to notice your groups hard work, thank you, and give Rowan 2 copper pieces for the trouble. She's going to ask Hemlock's help to string up the rest.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart takes a moment, noticing how David I wasn’t doing the accent. Well it would be weird for an archetype to have a Scottish accent so he clears his throat. What comes out is a smooth as silk English accent. Not too plummy, but not too casual, definitely upper class.

‘Oh, my dear fellow you’re not in the way.’ “Rowan says as he stands aside and takes in what the dwarf is doing.”

He looks around as the table seems quite shocked. He looks to Jay.

“No, not Oxbridge, but I did go to boarding school. Then to the University of St Andrews in Scotland.”

He notices Jay raise an eyebrow, it’s clear he knows of the university’s prestige.

“And, well, it’s hard to get a job with a regional accent so…not my words.”

He shrugs it off and goes back to the game.

‘I’m merely passing through, but couldn’t help notice you looking through the pieces. Thought maybe two eyes, two pairs of eyes, are better than one.’

Stewart can feel his cheeks start to flush when Jay mentions that David’s character was staring at his own.

‘Well Davian, my names Rowan, I’m more than happy to help if I can.’ “He looks between Hemlock and Elbain before answering.”

‘Today’s the first day I’ve heard of the festival. I’m just travelling through, was going to get some supplies and head on my way. Not a replacement my fine friend, just another traveller on the road.’ “Rowan takes a step back to avoid the conflict. Though he can’t lie he’s amused.”

Stewart doesn’t miss it, the connection between Nick and Jay, he can’t deny he find a this whole dynamic interesting.

“Rowan thanks the woman and adds puts the money away..”

‘So what brings you all here?’

It would be useful, for now at least to learn a little bit more about this adventuring party, and their players.

visionarypreist-david

We've been tracking down a dragon.

My father.

A dragon who only attacks towns during times of festivities.

Why they keep having festivals after that is behind me.

So we go to each town before their next festival to track the dragon's location and get a few good hits in or hopefully slay him.

It's fine he killed my mother.

Elbain's parents are both dead.

Hemlock was raised in the forest.

They notice David doesn't explain his backstory.

And Davian is trying to collect artifacts with his family crest to bring back to his village.

His parents are alive and super nice and caring we visited them in game way back when.

The king of his town totally screwed them all over.

But revenge solves nothing until everything taken from us is restored.

It's clearly a lot to take in, and without keeping in mind Stewart is someone they all just met David puts a friendly hand on his shoulder.

We've been in this campaign for a few years now you don't have to cram all the lore right now. It'll make sense as we go on- if you plan to come back next week.

We'd love to have Rowan join the party going forward. Fine a reason that works for his character.

He passes his phone across the table.

Here. Give me your number old sport and I'll text you the lore of the world to work a backstory into.

Oh yeah add him to the group chat!

David gives them all a look.

The D&D group one only. I'm sure he doesn't want to see your-

Who do you take me for Davian! I respect boundaries it was truly and honest mistake last time I promise.

They're talking about how before there was a separate group chat for planning D&D groups David had been added to what he was told was solely a D&D chat. Until someone had mixed up which type of Dungeon event was being planned in what group chat. They had to make a new one after that.

David's already getting protective.

Nick teases. Ross and Gill 'oooooo'. Jay just smiles as he takes his phone back. Sharing off a Google doc of necessary player information.

Back to the game boys.

visionarypriest-stewart

It was a lot to take in all at once.

“Your dad’s a dragon, you were raised in the forest and your parents are dead, got it. Oops.” ‘Sorry for your loss.’

He wishes he had a notebook with him. Stewart takes Jay’s phone and gives him his number. The conversation that follows has Stewart intrigued to say the least. However it seems that David doesn’t want him to know about their personal life.

Understandable.

They’ve only just met, and it’s not Stewart’s place to ask too much. Though he gathers that David is more fond of Jay, than he is the others, Nick seems to also be enamoured with him. Ross and Gill, well Stewart’s yet to work them out but they seem nice enough.

“I’d love to come back for another session if that’s okay? Of course I won’t be offended if I don’t fit in with the dynamic, like you e said you’ve guys have been doing this for a couple of years, we’d have to see if I fit.”

He smiles but looks over when Ross and Gill smirk start giggling together. The innuendo he’s just said has completely gone over his head. He tilts his head and knits his brow, trying really hard not to get defensive. It takes him a good few seconds before he realises what he’s just said.

“Oh, I mean in the game not with…what you guys have going on. I’m so sorry. Oh god.”

Well if anything that’s fucked it. He laughs to try and ease the tension.

Stewart’s cheeks flush a deep red and his rubs a hand though his hair in embarrassment.

When the dust settles Jay eases them back in to the game, for which Stewart is grateful for. He thinks to himself, he might need some dice. He could buy some, but he also has some at home. And if it didn’t work out, they’d just end up getting dusty on a shelf somewhere.

He listens to what’s going on and tries to think of what Rowan would do.

“Rowan takes note of everything you’ve said and says: ‘Well, if there’s anything I can do to help…safety in numbers and all that?’ “He then extends his hand to each of you.”

visionarypreist-david

We don't know what you were doing before but your welcome to join us on our quest. Frymri shakes Rowans hand.

We'd love to have you. Hemlock does next.

Elbain gives a curt nod and shakes his hand.

Rowan will have to lean down again to shake Davian hand, it he'll return it and say 'Were glad to have you' before pulling Rowan down closer to whisper 'better spellcaster'.

Pet names already~ I love it! Tre Bien!

He hadn't meant it to come off so flirty. It was just supposed to be a bit playful. A callback to saying Rowan would replace Hemlock. But if he outright denied flirting that would be a lie.

As you all stand in the town square you notice the sun begin to set and still no sign of the dragon.

Is there an inn near by?

You see a building called the Sundown Bed and Breakfast.

We go in! Ha get it Inn

The halfling at the front desk looks at your whole group. "I don't know if we'll have enough beds available"

That's fine we can't ever afford separate rooms anyway.

Frymri is going to slap- then he remembers his patrons deal and hold back, only coughing to get Elbain's attention 'That is not what you say to someone you're trying to buy things from'

Oh its quite alright. We've got two rooms available, one double one single.

Hemlock and Elbain take the single room!

Wait but that still leaves two beds and three of us.

Davian I'm sure this time the puzzle isn't that difficult to complete.

Jay notices the solution dawn on Stewart's face. Two of them will have to share. Clearly the dwarf and someone else. And an elf could fit more easily than a Dragonborn.

Seems our resident brains of the table has it figured out. I'm sure you find Rowan and Davian fit together perfectly fine.

That's one way to strengthen bonds of teamwork.

It's just a game. He's not actually sharing a bed with the beautiful new guy at the table. But damn. David glanced over to Stewart, noticing his discomfort from the innuendo that Jay is now referencing is brought back. He's blushing and can't meet his eyes.

Davian is going to go over to Rowan and try to ease the awkwardness. 'Suppose you'll be bunking with me tonight. Not what you had planned I wager, but I promise I'm a much better bed companion than Frymri, he kicks'

Bed companion?

Not in that way obviously, Nick!

You know if Rowan and Davian want the single room...

That's not what I was getting at let me fin- day what I was going to say

He gets back in character focusing on Stewart again.

'But that also means I need to know what you're capable of, spellcaster'

Not making this seem any less dirty

I'm having a character moment where he's sizing up the guy we just brought in

You're sizing him up alright.

Literally at Rowan's crotch height asking him to crack open his spellbook. It's getting hot in here or is it just me.

It's only then that David realized he'd gotten so I to the roleplay his hand had slipped from Stewart's shoulder to the back of his chair, bracketing him in, and he'd leaned in closer.

Well is Rowan up for the challenge?

visionarypriest-stewart

Before he can suggestive single room is gone. And he glances at Jay, having worked out again what he had planned.

There’s only one bed.

He didn’t mind though. So it was a toss up between Davian and Frymri. The jokes are coming thick and fast and he’s glad he doesn’t relay that to the group or nothing may get done. He doesn’t smirk to himself a little though.

The mention of he and David, no, Arian and Davian being a good fit catches him off guard slightly. He turns inward to David as he’s addressed.

A proposition, no, a challenge? Turns out it’s both.

Stewart finds David and inched closer and he does everything in his power to stay casual and keep contact. But as he looks at the Adonis before him Jay speaks again.

Stewart nods.

“Rowan accepts the challenge.” ‘Interesting Davian, you seem to have me all worked out before even getting to know me.’

He keeps his voice smooth and a little sarcastic, completely different to the introverted Scotsman who walked in earlier.

‘What exactly do you wish to see?’

He asks to make a perception check to see what’s in the inn. In the corner, along with some other toys that children can play with, he can see an old cloth ragdoll lying amongst the toys.

“Let me know if this isn’t allowed…but Rowan will open one of his books and start casting a spell. He looks across the room and sees the ragdoll. Wlwcteic purple light emits from the book and travels through him, to the tips of his fingers. He articulates them and the doll begins to move and waltz with itself around the room before lying gracefully back down. Then I’ll look at Davian.” ‘Something like that?’

In character he raises an eyebrow.

‘I don’t wish to cause harm to anyone in this in, thought I’d try something more tame. But if you want a fireball…’

There’s a resounding no and everyone laughs. He wouldn’t do it, the party needs somewhere to sleep.

visionarypreist-david

'Your spells. I need to know what you're truly capable of before I let my guard down around you.'

In character and out of it he's amazed. Davian by the effortless magic and David by the way Stewart was such a good D&D player. Small things, asking if it was ok before doing a big character thing and then making a choice to do a big character thing especially on his first session with them.

This had been what David initiated this moment for. Davian testing Rowan was him testing Stewart and he was amazing. It was too easy to fall into character with him

'I was thinking something more dangerous than dancing.' He watched the entire little show.

Frymri is going to turn over from his bed and go 'Save the fireballs for tomorrow and get some rest'

Rest doesn't have to be all sleep. You can do other things as long as it's restful.

Gill tells Stewart.

Or if it's not it at least has to be pleasurable...

Ross adds.

The three of you hear muffled noises from the wall adjoining your room to Hemlock and Elbain's.

Jay seems so pleased to share.

Frymri is already asleep.

Nicholas. You have a visiting message from your patron in the night, check your phone.

Davian is going to prepare for bed, get in, but sleep is not going to find him easy.

Stewart describes what Rowan is doing.

He whispers 'What are you still up to?'. Then he'll pat the empty side of the bed. 'Im not uncomfortable with you I just don't know what to expect from you yet'

Once they have a bit of a heart to heart in character Jay closes his manual.

And that is our session for today. Good show mes amours and company.

visionarypriest-stewart

"Not forgetting that spell is usually reserved for corpses."

Rowan smiles, not smug, but knowingly.

Stewart nods and laughs a little at jays description of the shenanigans in the other room. He asks Jay what's in the room and he opts to go to the window seat while Davian gets ready for bed.

"Rowan goes over to the window seat in the bay window and sits sideways on. His body faces towards the two of you while he faces out of the window. He looks out as the moon slowly rises over the horizon and the stars begin to shine."

Stewart addresses Jay.

"Do I notice any changes in Davian?"

He borrows a set of dice and rolls hitting a 10 with his passive perception.

"Rowan will take it on board, but won't press Davian in to questioning. He looks back out of the window."

When Davian addresses toward Stewart turns to him.

‘You have no reason to trust me, I'm a complete stranger. Then again, do I have cause to trust either of you?'

His voice is calm, gentle, as he gestures between Frymri and Davian. The implication that they could kill him as easily as he could kill them in their sleep.

'There are more of you than me, it would be unwise to cause unrest in your party while you graciously share a room with me. "Rowan looks out at the sky again." I'm just watching the stars. Making sure they're still there.'

He knows it's cryptic, but he doesn't want to give too much away just yet.

“He joins you and slips beside you carefully to make sure you still have space." 'Like I said, I'm just a traveller on the road. If your party will have me, I'll stay as long as I'm needed. As long as I'm wanted.

‘You can trust me, Davian.’

The talk a little longer before they fall asleep.

"Thanks for inviting me to play."

Stewart says after a while.

"I'm free almost all of the same time each week and I'll let you know in advance if I'm not. I'd love to come back if you'll have me?"

visionarypreist-david

You notice no changes in him. Despite the restful position he still does not ease. Your eyes don't linger long enough to see or appreciate much more.

Jay describes in relation to Stewart's perception roll.

'Frymri cannot willfully cause undue harm. For me you'll just have my word. Trust what you wish'

'Who died and put you in charge of the stars, spellcaster?' Davian will add as a final flippant comment. You can tell by the way he finally does shut his eyes when Rowan goes to bed he trusts him enough for tonight.

David stands as they all leave talking in a group. The one good thing about a consistent schedule is that other things can be discussed post game besides when to play next.

We would love to have you!

You are wanted and needed because that was some really interesting roleplay I want to see more of Rowan

I want to see more of Rowan and Davian together.

Yes!

It is an interesting dynamic to see play out. You know with Davian's whole thing with elves-

Spoilers! It's a backstory thing you'll understand more later on.

See you all next week.

Jay loops his arm with Nick's.

Now let's go home for that one on one session between Frymri and his patron.

He waves for Ross and Gill to follow as he pulls out his keys and heads to his flashy yellow car. He's not even safely out of earshot yet when he leans into Nick again to say.

I think it's David's whole thing for twinks in glasses which honestly makes the dynamic work more than anything in character, don't you think?

David stiffens slightly knowing probably everyone, including Stewart, heard that. He chuckles awkwardly and glances away from Stewart.

Sorry about them. I know it can be a bit much. You did good though, honestly would love to have you back for next session.

It's actually a breath of fresh air to have someone at the table who's not currently or in the past for all David knows with Jay.

You're clearly pretty experienced. Do you have any cool campaign stories? I've got time to kill before the bus gets here if you're sticking around.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Thanks, see you next week.”

He hears it. Loud and clear as crystal. He ponders for a moment because surely they’re not talking about him? Stewart watches the four of them leave then he turns to David, slightly puzzled.

“You’re not going with them?”

He can’t help but ask. He finds himself staying behind though. It’s not like he’s got much else happening this afternoon.

“Don’t be, it’s all lighthearted fun.”

He thinks for a moment.

“Well, I’ve played with another group for the longest time a few years ago. I got in to it because it was freeing to play a character and go on adventures and be someone interesting, not to mention being part of a team.”

He shrugs a little and leans back against the bus shelter.

“There was one campaign where one of the characters was cursed to speak in rhyme because he touched the cursed object. That went on for three sessions.”

He chuckles slightly. That was one of the better campaigns.

“How about you? Have you only played in this campaign or were there more?”

visionarypreist-david

David laughs at the story.

That must have been hard to improvise on the spot.

He agrees with the sentiment that playing somebody else for a time is fun and freeing. Feels more like you know what you're doing when the world is fictional than in the real one.

Only this campaign but it's a long running one. My first character was a premade sheet who died pretty early on. So this is my first real character. Even if I'm not the most creative with names.

David's first character was a basic human fighter he'd used just to see if he wanted to commit to learning the rules, with a preassigned name and everything. Nothing real lost as he didn't feel too connected to it. The death made a pretty cool arc and introduction for the new character.

Jay's played for years I joined when we started dating back in his uni days.

He shrugs.

But no I don't go with them. Different side of town, different sort of activity. I don't...with them.

He hopes Stewart catches on without it being awkward.

visionarypriest-stewart

“It was, fortunately it wasn’t my character though. If anything that would have been easier. One of was made mute for a while.”

He remembers it well. His character, in character, had cast vicious mockery on an enemy. The DM took it personally and punished Stewart by not allowing his character to speak.

“I think Davian suits your character.”

This time the double meaning was intended.

“You’re a great team, not just in game but as players too. It’s nice when you can gel in a campaign.”

Stewart nods.

“I see.”

He expresses cooly. So David wasn’t part of the group of boyfriends, but maybe that meant he was Jay’s. They banter very well together and they’re probably the closest after Nick. It would make sense, so why the twink comment? Stewart internally shakes his head. He’s hardly a twink. He’s just a guy.

“Well it’s good that you all get on still.”

Stewart smiles and brushes his hand through his hair and takes his glasses off to clean them. Who’d have known that his routine would’ve shaken up in such a positive way. Making new friends, and joining a long running campaign want on his bingo card. But he was happy it happened nonetheless.

He could offer David a lift, but would that be strange if they’d only just met? He supposes they could catch up in the group chat.

visionarypreist-david

David watches enraptured as Stewart fixes his appearance. The way his hands card through his hair. The slight change in his expression when he takes his glasses off, squint rivaling on a glare at the floor without them. It's charming.

Jay wasn't wrong about his thing for twinks in glasses. Smart short guys. Brown hair if he was being picky. Basically everything about Stewart physically and his personality had only made him more appealing.

Yeah. I haven't met all of Jay's paramours, but these are definitely some of the better ones.

It's easier to get along with this group then some of the other players they had. Seriously he swears Jay uses D&D as a litmus test to see if a fling has enough personality to be more long-term and more than just sex. Many a man has failed.

Stewart wouldn't.

The thought is not a fun one. He doesn't want Stewart to fall for someone else at the table and join the cule. Purely because it's good to play with someone new and not in a romantic relationship with the DM... And fine because he likes him too. A passing infatuation for a stranger didn't have to mean anything. Probably would go away by next session and he could be normal.

It's not a prerequisite to be with anyone at the table. You're welcome as you are.

The bus pulls up and David gets on, noticing Stewart hadn't makes his chest tighten. Had Stewart waited with him for the bus, just to wait with him.

He hops off and on impulse pulls Stewart is to a one armed side hug before getting back on the bus.

See you around, spellcaster.

It's a good thing he escaped. As his fingertips tingle slightly at the memory of how well Stewart fit against him. They fit together.

visionarypriest-stewart

The sound of there being more nearly knocks Stewart for six but he doesn’t comment on it. It’s not his place to. Even if David’s one of Jay’s partners it’s still not his place to comment. They’re all really nice as people, so far, and even though multiple partners isn’t for Stewart. He can respect it.

And if anything he can look, he can gaze and maybe yearn. Stupidly pathetic of him to do so, but it’s not causing any harm. Even if David is his type, taller, stronger…handsome and well groomed.

“No, no…”

Stewart chuckles.

“I didn’t think it was,it’s not my thing anyway, but fair play if that’s what others are in to; it’s just nice to get back in to the game.”

He looks at the bus pulls up and steps back for David to get on. The lat thing he was expecting was for David to get back off and quickly hug him.

“See you…”

Before the can finish his Sentence the bus door closes.

“David.”

He wonders why he didn’t notice David’s cologne when they were playing earlier. It suited him.

He walks along as the bus pulls away and turns to see if he can see David to wave, but he’s lost in a sea of people.

It really was busy today.

She he reaches his car, he gets in and the radio automatically turns on. ‘Crush,’ by Jennifer Paige starts to play and he groans as he puts his seatbelt on.

“That’s just takin’ the piss.”

He mutters as he drives home.

When he settles in for the evening he texts Jay privately, thanking him again.

Text New Message to Jay:

Thanks again for today. I’ve had time to think about Rowan. I was wondering how you feel about him being a runaway prince? His dad is utterly awful, and he ran away as a teen. He’s needed to learn magic as a princely duty as well simple self defence. This would explain why he’s learned with the type of magic he does. His name for the party is Rowan, but there’s a bounty for whoever finds the king’s son, Felix. Roman’s real name. Let me know what you think?

visionarypreist-david

To Stewart:

That does fit within this world! In fact the king who ransacked Davian's village is an elf. You will be his son! :D Oh the drama! Would this be a secret to the players as well as the party?...

Jay is kicking his feet as he plans out the whole secret character thing over text. Nick leans over from where he's laying beside him, both naked, on the large bed. He smiles relaxed.

What is it?

Planning for the next session. And how to get Davian and Stewart together. Cant you imagine it?

He is David's type.

From what we can tell. I need to gather more information and disperse information... Subtly hmmm with Davian there.

I know you can do it babe. Especially when they would be so hot together.

Almost as hot as you right here... Frymri. Don't be jealous, I'm not giving them all my attention.

Nick moaned as Jay turned over and pressed towards him.

David spent way too long trying to decide if he should text Stewart outside of the group chat just to ultimately not do it.

All he did was text his name in the group along with the others so Stewart could add them as contacts. Why is he so tempted to go a step further, he's only met the man just today, but it feels like he's known him for lifetimes.

This is weird.

That night he dreams about the campaign, which usually happens after a longer session being in character so long. But his dream isn't about the fight they had before entering the town festival, or the puzzle, it starts in the Inn.

Rowan, who in his dream looks like a tall slender elven version of Stewart, lies in bed beside him. He can't look away. Nothing happens. He doesn't know enough. So nothing happens. This night at least.

visionarypriest-stewart

Text to Jay:

Okay, that works for me, because Rowan wouldn’t have known that so the reveal will be a shock to them both. I think it’s also a secret to the party and the payers too.Something that David said as Davian intrigued me, “who died and made you in charge of the stars?” I might go all out with the tragic backstory and eventually reveal it was his mum who told him to keep watching the stars before she died. Unless it’s too sad, just let me know.

Stewart looks down when another message pops up, it’s David, giving his name to his number.

Stewart adds it quicker than he would have liked. He looks at it and debates texting. He doesn’t want to give off the wrong impression. And maybe David didn’t want an open relationship. He seems quite comfortable with Jay. But he did hug him. Then again, it was just a hug. A friendly gesture. He really needs to stop reading in to this.

He bites the bullet and sends a text to David.

Text New Message David:

Hey, it’s Stewart. 🙂

He debates leaving the emoji in or not, not wanting to come across as sarcastic.

He resides to opening a few emails and working through them in to the night before dragging himself upstairs to bed. He grabs a book and reads a little before turning over and wrapping the duvet around him.

His sleep is a dreamless one. But it’s threat he’s slept in a while.

The next few days are uneventful. If he’s honest he can’t wait to go back to the game store. He can’t wait to play d&d again. He can’t wait to see David. He decides to buy a new notebook just so he can get the gist of everything, and a new pen while he’s at it. He doesn’t opt for new dice. He can always use the ones that were bought for him from his last campaign. No point buying new ones.

visionarypreist-david

Steph sees John struggling to carry a heavy box, she runs over and takes it from him struggling only slightly less.

Is this the new chessex dice shipment?

She carries the box over to the shelf and cracks it open revealing all the new colors and designs of the dice sets and bulk dice bags.

Shiny sparkly plastic!

It's perfect timing for the dice to arrive in the middle of a D&D day pulling most people's attention away from their tables and to the cool new dice.

She holds up a set of dice towards her coworker.

This one gives John energy. It looks like you. Don't you think?

Over at Jay's table an interaction ensues.

Gill tell me I don't need another dice set or I will run over there.

Do you want another dice set?

Yes! But I don't want to just feed this addiction. Be my voice of reason please.

Ross gave him cute eyes.

You don't need another dice set you already have every color and most combinations and your 3rd dice bag is full. You have more dice than you could ever use.

David didn't understand the appeal of collecting multiple dice sets. You only truly needed one. Maybe more d6 for stealth damage but rerolling was always a thing.

He had a single set of dice. They were a mix of 2 shades of blue in the main color and deep green lettering.

But his focus wasn't on the dice right now, and instead on the fact that Stewart wasn't here yet. He knew the time, he knew the place, where was he.

A pang of worry went through him that Stewart wasn't going to be there. He'd only agreed out of nicities but ultimately didn't want to continue playing with them with him.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Yep!”

John grunts as he carries it through the building.

“Fresh off of the truck. Oh god, that’s better, thank you Stephanie.”

He shakes his arms out and goes over to look at the packing label.

“New math rocks! We’ve got some good ones in. These are particularly pretty.”

He looks at a set that reminds him of her. Bold, with a flash of iridescence flowing through it, but not too much that it distracts from the numbers.

He looks at the dice that were chosen for him.

“I like them!”

Stewart made sure he got into town early. He had his satchel bag with him that had his notebook and pens, as well as his glasses case and cleaner if he needed it. He didn’t want to be late for his first session, his first real session with the group.

He decided he’d get a coffee and head over to the store, he was sure the woman, Stephanie? Wouldn’t mind him sitting out of the way while he waited.

He paid for his coffee and turned to leave, he could hear the dice clicking against the plastic case they were in. He was about to send a text to the group saying he’s on his way when he’s stopped. He quit outs his phone in his pocket. He walked out of the cafe and turned to head to the game store when he heard him before he saw him.

“Long time no see.”

Stewart froze, just for a moment, then turned to face the voice., dice clacking away as he did.

“Greg.”

He greeted.

“Yeah, it as been a long time.”

And he would rather keep it that way.

“Don’t be like that. I would have offered you a coffee but seems you’re sorted.”

“Yeah, well, sorry about that.. I have to go, have a nice day.”

He went to turn again when Greg placed a hand on his arm.

“Wait a minute, I know that sound anywhere.”

On the outside Stewart looked calm. His heart however was pounding he thought the whole street might hear it.

“Is that set of dice in your pocket or are you just excited to see me?”

Start pulled a face, glancing down at the hand on his arm.

“Dice.”

Greg laughed.

“You’re playing again with who? Where? I want to know every last detail. Are they as good as I was?”

Stewart’s lips press in to a thin line.

“It’s a new group, I’d rather not say where. It’s my second time with them so still getting to know them.”

Short, sweet and to the point. That’s all that was needed, now all he needed was for Greg to let go.

“Oh you’re so tetchy. Look there’s no point going, they’re only going to get annoyed with you in the end. Your backstories are boring and tragic, they’ll get bored of it. Why not sack it off and come out with me for the night?”

Stewart calmly moved his arm, but Greg wasn’t budging.

“For old times sale.”

He almost pouts, but instead he grins.

“Come on, I know you like the chase, but this cat has claws my little mouse. And you know I always win.”

“I don’t want to be late.”

“Ugh fine if you insist…oops. How clumsy of me. Really, I should be more careful.”

It’s fortunate the coffee wasn’t brewed at boiling. The arm that Greg was holding, was the arm that had the hand that was holding the coffee. By forcefully letting go, Greg purposefully jolted Stewart’s arm up, causing coffee to go all over his nice clean shirt.

I’ve also lucky that from the time they’d been talking, the coffee had gotten colder.

“Have fun!”

Greg smiles and walks off, leaving Stewart in a state.

“Fuck!”

He checks his watch, he’s going to be late, but he can’t turn up covered in coffee stains. He doesn’t bother to send the text, instead he opts to run to his car. He picks up a jacket and puts it on and does the zip up.

Would it look stupid, yes. Would it cover the the stain? Also yes. It was the best he could do.

By the time he gets to the store he’s a little frazzled. He spots the group and sheepishly goes over.

“Sorry I’m late, I was going to text. But something cropped up. It won’t happen again.”

He pulls out the thankfully dry notebook and his set of dice.

visionarypreist-david

David tries to make his relief not as obvious, keeps his smile at a simple warm and friendly and his sigh inaudible. The passing fancy had not faded. It wasn't constant or overbearing, but every reminder across the week about the upcoming campaign session and this extra excitement bubbling under the surface. As the old adage rings true absence makes the heart grow fonder.

I- we were worried you didn't want to keep playing after all. Glad you could make it.

He pulls out Stewart's chair for him as the settle into the same spots as last week.

Ooo you have your own dice. Are they new? Did you get them for the campaign?

Mixmatch set. We've all been there where you just grab whatever's on hand when the bag is all mixed up.

Gill playfully nudges Ross's arm. The 4 different dice sets in a small pile between them make it unclear which dice belong to whom.

As Stewart explains his dice are different colors on purpose Nick half jokes.

80's set?! You're older than we'd first assumed

Glancing over at Jay as Stewart clarifies he's around there age, because he was able to subtly get more vital compatibility information.

David leans in to look at the dice like the rest of them. Catching a whiff of coffee as he does so and realizing it's come from Stewart. He was to work not to subconsciously drift closer to the comforting and nice aroma. It suits him.

Your D4 is interesting. Never seen one like it.

He comments, for want of something to add to the conversation, the die in question having the numbers clustered in the center instead of at the tips. It's there he sees the notebook.

Finally we'll have a solid note taker. So many details get forgotten because nobody writes shit down during play.

It's not my fault I'm so distracting.

Jay brags.

Speaking of distractions let's get to the game. Davian, finish up checking out what Stewart is packing on your own time.

Oh David knew that wording was intentional. The tips of his ears blushed red hot.

That reminds me...

Ross catches on immediately.

Stewart hasn't rolled for Rowan's dick size!

He blurts out. A contented laugh comes from Jay.

You don't have to, it's simply all for good fun, and bragging rights.

And you can't just use your on measurements because of character size difference.

That got everyone to laugh at an unspoken inside joke. Clearly a table story from before Stewart was here had caused that rule. Even David found it funny.

He caught his breath and explained still though a small laugh here or there.

It's my fault we had to make that clarification. I didn't consider Davian was only like 143 centimeters tall.

It would have been a sixth of his height!

Only after the second part is said does he realize, Stewart could easily do the math. Jay smirks knowing he didn't even have to fully give away that one. He remembers to reward Nick accordingly for creating the opportunity.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart nods. He didn’t mean to be late. In fact it’s one of his worst nightmares. Unless there’s a legitimate reason to be late. And the incident that happened earlier wasn’t. It was just unfortunate timing. The last thing he wants to do is find a new coffee shop.

“I really wanted to be here early. I’m not usually tardy.”

He chuckles despite himself, despite what happened. He’s here now. He can focus on the game. (When he’s not focusing on David.)

“Yeah, it’s just to help me remember everything, but I don’t mind taking the notes if you like?”

He smiles at David as he sits and looks over.

“Oh, they’re not new, they were gifted to me a while ago. Well, I was told they were supposed to be 80’s…”

He laughs a little.

“I’m not that old!”

He confirms his age and turns to David.

“Yeah they are a little odd. Yours are really nice though.”

He points at David’s dice. He turns his head to Jay as David does and hopes that he’s not blushing too much. He also hopes the coffee isn’t too strong, and drying off with minimal mess.

He looks between everyone. There’s a joke there he’s missed out on, until it’s explained very clearly. He doesn’t mention he hasn’t measured himself. He’s never had the need.

He works out how tall Davian is, then, at Jays next admittance, he works out the next bit. He tries not to pull an impressed face. He finally looks back at David.

“It’s easily done.”

He tries his best not to be awkward. He wants to make a quip about how that might work out for Davian, but he doesn’t know them that well yet.

“Well, what’s the harm in knowing?”

He rolls a D20 and thankfully it’s a decent enough number, providing it was in centimetres and not inches, that could kill a man.

“18cm.”

He laughs.

“Hey, it’s not all about size. And that’s above average.”

He chuckles and looks over at Ross and Gill.

“Well, I can’t compare it to real life, because I’ve never considered measuring.”

He answers with a friendly shrug.

visionarypreist-david

David's eyes widen at the impressive roll and he lets out a low whistle. There are many ways to roll 1d6+1, 2d6, etc. But a D20 for centimeters was pretty ballsy. You wouldn't think a man like Stewart would take that risk or even play along with their antics like this but he did.

Well look at Rowan.

Not bad.

How's it measure up to real life?

Gill asks and when Stewart says he doesn't know Ross offers.

We could check for you!

What are friends for

Jay adds clearly less serious in his offer then Ross had been.

Come on guys he's known of for two days. Lay off.

I got to measure yours in half that time Davian.

He winks.

Only because you begged for it. Don't make me sound easy.

You say that like it's a bad thing.

Babe, what about the game?

No I'm actually fine if we talk about this.

Yeah!

Lets be respectful of our new player. I'll tell you all the sordid details in due time. Now where were we hmmm?

The inn

Ah yes, Davian and Rowan sleeping together while Frymri watches. You're all awoken by a loud explosion and commotion outside your window.

I grab my sword!

Wake up Rowan!

Run!

Check the window!

Perception for Elbain, Athletics for Hemlock.

They roll.

It was a confetti cannon the festival is underway! You see people dancing and shouting and you smell amazing street food and there's no sign of a dragon yet.

Jay turns his focus to David and Stewart.

How does Rowan react to being rudely woken up in a panic?

I wasn't ru-

Roleplay it.

David slips into his character voice.

'Rowan. Hey, spellcaster, wake up! Did you hear that?'

visionarypriest-stewart

“Thanks for the offer guys, but I’m good.”

Stewart chuckles and gives David a thankful glance. When they get in to the game Stewart listens intently. He likes that it’s started with action. It leads itself naturally to the storytelling. He was also impressed by Jay as a DM.

It’s an interesting dynamic. The other two are in the room while the three of them are in the other. Of course, Roan doesn’t know it’s just tune festival starting. He finds it interesting that Davian has decided to wake Rowan, he’s also interested to see how this will pan out.

He gets in to character and feigns being asleep. He wakes with a start, panicked, wide eyed and looking at Davian.

“Rowan is in a deep sleep. There’s a moment where Davian can see that Rowan doesn’t recognise him as he comes to consciousness, it’s a split second, he looks around the room and back to Davian.”

In character, Stewart jumps a little.

‘What is it?! What’s happening?’ “Rowan quickly gets out of the bed and grabs his things. He looks over to see Frymri has his sword ready, and looks between the two of them. He keeps his guard up.”

After making a perception check, Rowan calms.

“Rowan follows Davian and Frymri to go and find the others.”

visionarypreist-david

We don't know it could be the dragon. Davian is going to whisper.

The three of you meet up with Elbain and Hemlock who appear far less on edge.

Frymri, why've you got your sword all at the ready and stuff?

We heard what sounded like the dragon outside.

Psssh

It's not the dragon that was a confetti cannon for the festival.

A wave of calm goes over the party as you make your way to the dining area for the breakfast part of bed and breakfast. There aren't many options available as the room is already full of patrons dressed in festival attire. Face paint and fabrics of red, orange, yellow, and gold. Children run around with paper suns on sticks and streamers.

Awwwww

You went all out with the planning on this

Don't act like you didn't peak at my DM plans, Nicholas. I had to rewrite parts just to keep you out of the loop.

Nick looks sheepish.

The party has their breakfast. Elbain using some charisma (re: flirting) on some NPCs to get the party a spot at their table and snack off their plates when the food wasn't enough for them all.

Stepping outside the see the festivities Jay rolls something and then says.

None of you notice the large group of people barreling towards you running after a passing parade. Dexterity saves to not be knocked to the ground.

That's a 17 after mods.

Dirty 20.

13?

15 for me.

Stewart rolls even lower than Gill. Jay gives a sympathetic expression.

You all pass, except for Rowan. As he's swept up in the crowd for some feet before crashing to the ground. Roll to stand up before you take any damage from people walking over you.

Kick a man whole he's down.

Ouch.

Another failed roll.

You take... 3 points of damage from the fall and people trampling you.

Not a warm welcome.

Both to the game and to the festival.

Davian is closest to the ground, he's going to try and weave between the crowd to reach Rowan.

Roll.

You make it to where Rowan is, standing your ground enough to block the onslaught of chaotic festival goers from where he is.

I'm going to offer him my hand to stand, that'll be the help action on his next attempt to get up.

Roll with advantage Stewart

Barely he scrapes by.

Heavier than he looks. I'm going to pull him out of the crowd.

David jokes out of character, in character he says.

'Eyes on your surroundings not just the stars. You alright?'

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart is happily taking notes. He joins in when appropriate and listens to everyone interacting. He makes notes of reworks. The Inn, the festival. Even right down to the last random detail. Who knows when it would come in handy.

He rolls and doesn’t make it.

“I got an 8?”

Stewart tells himself it’s not the dice. It was just bad luck that they always seemed to roll low. Especially the D20. There’s no point in getting another set. It’s just bad luck. It’s not like Greg would purposefully get him non useable dice?

It has to be a fluke.

His character goes crashing to the ground. He writes down the three points of trampling damage taken. This is where things proved that they were different to his last campaign he was in.

Instead of being left to suffer and work it out for himself, to try and fight his way out of it while the rest of the party looked after themselves, or at least each other; this party didn’t. Inside and outside of the game.

“Rowan, is taken by surprise. He struggles to get up in the stampede.”

He glances at David who’s offered to help. For logical reasons he assumes. He looks back at Jay and rolls. The first roll is a 3, he starts to worry. The second roll is a 14, it just makes it.

‘Yes, I’m alright. No harm done, I’m not usually used to large crowds, or festivals. Are they always like this?’ “Rowan brushes his word down and wipes the dust off of him.”

It’s what Rowan would do. Stewart thinks to himself, pretend he’s fine. Though Stewart does make note of the fact that wizards generally have a lower AC.

‘Thanks for helping me, Davian.’

visionarypreist-david

'A bit less rowdy this early in the mornin, unless the peasants are wasted already.'

'You say that like we're not all peasants too'

'Were not. We're all adventurers'

Jay casts his eyes towards Stewart knowingly but looks away.

Now back with the party Davian is going to... Damn I guess I can't realistically pat him on the back with the height difference.

You can slap his ass.

He's going to not do that, and just say 'Good news everyone he's still got all his fingers intact, and this is Rowan's first festival'

'Your first festival? Where have you been living under a rock'

'Hey! I lived under a rock and went to plenty of festivals'

A laugh comes over the table and distracts them from pressing the line of questioning any further.

What's there to do at this solar festival?

Nick asks his fone hinting at one thing in particular.

You notice the crowds all going towards a stage where people are showing their feats of skill. Bards display new songs. Casters do showy magic. Stronger individuals lift things, all to hope the sun god returns after the winter.

We already know what we're all good at.

There are also games at the festival. And treats sold by vendors. And stalls with solar themed ornaments trinkets and attire and things for sale.

Games?

There's also a tent with a clear purpose.

Sex. Sex, to appease the solar god, is the clear purpose.

'Well it's Rowan's first festival. He should have a say in what we do'

Agreed.

I like that paln

Fair

Upon request to know more about the games Jay has Stewart roll for insight to see if he can tell just from looking what the activities are about. Again he rolls low.

That makes sense given he probably doesn't know.

Still shit luck

You notice people dunking their faces into ice cold barrels full of fruit. You see a lineup where people shoot arrows or magical projectiles at distant sun shaped targets. You see an open field with people dancing to music and freezing when it stops playing. None of these make any sense to you, but you can still go to whatever looks fun.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart, as Rowan nods.

‘Thanks to Davian.’

He points out.

‘I don’t usually stick around long enough to stay for the festivals.’

Stewart takes notes of the layout of the festival and all of the different areas and activities. He wonders if the other characters will head off to ‘appease the sun god.’ But they still seem to stick together.

“What type of games are there?”

At the request, he rolls.

“9?”

He writes them down and looks between them. He has to remember he’s Rowan, not himself, but he doesn’t want to hog the activities, that wouldn’t be fair on everyone.

“Rowan is interested in the targets.” ‘We could try a game or two? But if there’s anything anyone wants to do I’ll happily tag along.’ “He quickly adds…” ‘I can watch our things for the…appeasement tent. Wait outside, keep a lookout?’

He hopes he’s not being too prudish. He honestly doesn’t mind what they get up to in game, they’re all very comfortable. And it will be amusing, not in a voyeristic way, just, just because this type of role play, it’s all so new to him.

That and it’s only been two days. Would it be weird for a stranger, bother player and character, to want to rush in so quickly?

They opt to do a game or two first. And it’s no harm for someone to keep a look out while the others are getting close.

Stewart pays to take part in the game, as Rowan, and rolls to see if he can magically hit a target.

Well in one way, it’s good, in others it’s a tad annoying. He rolls a 16, not awful, but he could have done with that earlier. No matter it was still fun. He doesn’t have the highest score but he’s managed to hit a few targets.

When he’s done he happily lets the others complete what they want to do.

visionarypreist-david

Davian watches Rowan shoot his magic at the target, not a bullseye but nearly. Far better than the ranged attacks of the fellow party and only just shy of the random town persons who won. Davian knew it was foolish to participate he was more skilled in close range. But he got enough enjoyment seeing his party compete and seeing the new spell aster show off his skill again. Seems the clumsy man truly did have a knack for magic.

They approach the pleasure tents of appeasement. Hemlock and Elbain running in like they hadn't just had sex with one another that night not 12 hours ago. Frymri takes a moment to call upon his patron to appear before pulling him inside.

I want you to see what I'd do if you let me see your physical form.

You're gonna cuck a demon?!

Your patron whispers in your mind 'Cause no undue harm little one'

What if they ask for it?

Jay chuckles.

'Well...'

Davian is going to stay with Rowan. 'Pretty smart to try and use this opportunity to run off with our loot, but I won't let you'

He explains.

'Sure you could've taken it while we slept, but that would only be mine and Frymri 's things. You're patient I'll give you that'

The rebuttal catches David off guard this time. Why would he have helped him, or woken him up if Davian still wasn't going to trust the new guy?

'I'm no monster. Even if you're a elf you're part of our group and we protect our own. Like how I'm protecting them by keeping eye on you right now'

Davian crosses his arms. David does the same to help with the visualization of how he looks I'm the others imagination.

'Besides too dark and anonymous in there. Hate to get that intimate without truly knowing the other person'

Davian spilling his secrets to the man he just admitted to not trusting?

Crap! He was getting his own bias towards Stewart mixed with Davian's bias against Rowan. A mess of characterization.

He's just admitting he doesn't trust easy is all. Okay and then hes going to respond. 'You're surprised I saved you. I'm surprised you haven't tried to kill me in this moment'

visionarypriest-stewart

John finishes the stocktake and files the invoices. He looks up as Stephanie starts to organise the sets of dice ready for display. He then looks out at the players, at Jay’s table.

“Hey, Stephanie, who’s the new guy sat next to David? Another of Jay’s?”

He writes aimlessly as she explains.

“Yeah he doesn’t seem like Jay’s usual type.”

He glances over at David.

“Seems to be a natural.”

At the table Stewart watches in amusement as the three others, and Jay as the patron go in to the tent. He falls back in to character and looks at David.

‘Davian, if you don’t trust me, why wake me up when there was a possibility of danger? Better yet, you did not have to come for me when I got lost in the crowd. Though, I’m grateful, thankful. You could have left me to the windfall.’

Stewart as Rowan smiles a little. He takes out a pipe, debating whether to smoke it or not.

‘Even if I’m an elf? Well colour me flattered, dear dwarf. I commend your protective nature. I’m sure your team appreciates it too.’

Stewart tilts his head as he thinks his character would.

‘What need have I to kill you? Unless in self defence? Even then, I have no need to kill you in order to escape.’

visionarypreist-david

That's Stewart. Came in last week and helped them with a puzzle now he's joined the campaign. Don't think he's dating any of them yet, but a safe bet to say he may get involved with someone at the table.

She says knowingly, and John catches on which makes her smile at the dice.

I hope they don't scare him off, we need more customers. Not sure how experienced he is.

In both the game and in romance.

At the table in question David, and in turn Davian raise an eyebrow at what's being said. He knows there are spells like sleep and charm person and command which could be used to stop an attacker without killing them. But why back down from the threat.

'Only in death will I ever stop in my convictions' and he's going to step closer to the party's stuff.

That also puts you closer to Rowan.

That's fine.

He leans in towards Stewart the subtlest amount.

'Be prepared to go all the way, spellcaster. I've seen your magic but you know nothing what I'm capable of'

Guys if you really want to go all the way that's for inside the tent not outside of it.

Ross, Gill, Nick and Jay laugh. David sighs and looks at Stewart.

You know what I mean.

As long as Stewart knows he meant all the way with killing eachother that's all that mattered.

'Lets hope it doesn't come down to that. I also have no need to harm you yet'

Do you both want to do anything else while you wait.

Make out.

Hate sex.

Gill and Nick suggest.

We could try the festival freeze dance. It's be a good way for them to keep an eye on each other.

As you carry the groups stuff-

Davian is carrying it all except for Rowan things.

Not very gentlemanly of you.

It's respect for his personal property.

As you carry the groups stuff another crowd of people comes running towards you. The bandz the dancers, more festival goers.

Where are they all going?

Roll Dexterity saves.

16.

Stewart somehow rolls even lower this time. And also fails to get up again.

Wow Rowan really isn't good with crowds.

Do we hear any commotion?

At his roll it's decided that no they don't. Over the sounds of the tent. They don't even feel the heat of dragons breath from the heat of bodies.

Wait dragons breath?!

Jay nods with a smirk.

Davian you look up to see the dragon. That's what the crowd is running away from. Do you attack?

I find Rowan again. It's a 12?...

It takes you a bit of time. You've lost your extra surprise turn on the dragon but you do find him.

'Tell me again about your skills of escape'

He teases. Helping Rowan up. They both roll terribly to try and go upstream through the screaming crowds to alert the party in the tent.

Out of character he looks to Stewart.

Do you have like message or sending or something?

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart doesn’t lean away when David leans closer. He just hopes the coffee smell isn’t too strong.

‘And I have no desire, nor need to harm you.’ “Rowan does however hold his bag a little closer to himself as the day gets busier.”

He raises an eyebrow in character.

‘You make a good point, Davian. You’ve asked me to show you what I can do. You’ve yet to return the favour.’

The Scotsman holds in a laugh and nods to show he knows what David actually meant. He likes this table, the people and players. The jokes aren’t an ouch down, or at anyone’s expense, unless it’s an in joke, but everyone was laughing.Nothing was truly targeted at an individual. He does pull a slight face though, not of disgust just confusion.

“I’ve never understood the appeal of hate sex. How can you have sex with someone you hate?”

It’s rhetorical for the most part, but he thinks there’s a grey area there somewhere. Especially with consent. It’s just something he’s never got his head around.

“Rowan follows, holding his bag close as he moves through the crowd with Davian.”

There’s another rush of people and this time it’s a frenzy.

“Shit, that’s a 5?”

He gets swept up by the crowd again, Stewart is making notes while Jay is explaining and the others react. He huffs in character.

‘Getting away from a group of mercenaries is a bit different to tens of hundreds of people in a mad frenzy.’ “He does accept the help though.” ‘I owe you twice now.’

Stewart looks through his list and fortunately has the ‘message’ cantrip.

“Yes. I have message.”

It doesn’t take him long to work out what David wants him to do.

He sends the message out to the others, warning them of the dragon.

‘Get out of the tent, danger is approaching, there’s a dragon!’

visionarypreist-david

David will definitely ask in character later about the mercenaries comment. Later when they aren't trying to regroup to get some attacks in on the dragon.

You all hear the message. Frymri your patron even hears it too from inside your head he chuckles 'Mmmm sounds like your other Daddy is here'

Jay leans forward on steepled hands giving Nicholas bedroom eyes. Nick gazes back with some in character fury to hide other heat.

'You know I don't consider him that.' Frymri says in his head aloud he goes 'Everyone evacuate the dragon is attacking'

'I never heard of this roleplay'

'Hemlock didn't you hear Rowan, Frymri is talking about the real dragon'

We left all our armor outside!

Ross bemoans.

Yeah great timing for a fight Jay.

The Dungeon Master merely shrugged. This was clearly on purpose.

We all run out of the tent. I go first to spot the dragon 'Hemlock Elbain ensure everyone makes it out'

Davian, Rowan and Frymri all have eyes on the dragon. He's in the air and hasn't spotted any of you. Roll for initiative everyone. Hemlock and Elbain will come in next turn once the tent is evacuated.

We still need to meet up and get our gear.

Quite the lovely predicament.

...9

8+2 so that's a 10

Well lucky me the dragon goes first! He's going to sense Frymri first.

Of course he is.

Taking all his movement to hover above you, but too far away to attack. I'm saving the breath weapon.

That means he's going to see Davian and Rowan only if we keep running to them.

But we need our stuff.

With my passive perception do I spot Davian and Rowan.

Yes I suppose from this place to would.

Run towards them. Shout for them to stop!

Is there anywhere nearby that's not burnt. Somewhere someone could take cover?

Rolls.

You don't see anything which isn't clearly flammable or already crowded.

Shit!

He looks to Stewart.

How much health does Rowan have?

Not good.

Even if you succeeded against the breath attack half damage would put him into rolling death saves. Rowan can't fight this.

I have healing!

He's one of the only 2 of the group with a weapon right now. We saw him do this targets he can attack long range.

And get the dragons full attention!

Rather on him than our naked asses!

The dragon is going to loom overhead, an eye of a the hurricane where is doesn't attack for a while simply watches.

Fuck it I'm getting my armor and sword. But stealthily.

Roll with disadvantage. Once it's your turn.

Right.

What does Rowan want to do, Stewart?

'If you survive this, best believe I won't forget that mercenaries comment'

He prods in character.

And if you want to hang around after this we can explain hate sex!

visionarypriest-stewart

It’s a high stakes situation. Everyone needing to think on their feet or at least plan ahead. It was exciting. Stewart especially liked it because the roleplaying aspect was there even while in battle and planning.

He sighs heavily.

“That would be a 5.”

So he’s last in the initiative with Hemlock going first, after the dragon of course. He was behind David.

“Rowan turns to you and nods.” ‘Noted.’ “He only has 15 health now. Wizards, eh?”

He shrugs a little, but hopes this character doesn’t die in the first real session. If he makes it, he’ll have to buy some optionally healing and equip a healing spell for next time.

He looks up as Jay mentions what the dragon is doing. He rolls for it to attack the pleasure tent just as Elbain and Hemlock make it out.

Hemlock uses his bonus action to get to his armour and his action to cast a spell at the dragon. He rolls, it hits, he then rolls for damage. All in all a success.

Frymri is next, he communes with his patron and Stewart watches, slightly in awe as he sees the character come out fully and rise up against his father.

Next is Elbain, while he’s explaining what’s happening Stewart looks through his list of spells and makes notes furiously. It’s no good planning too far ahead.

Next is David, well, Davian, and if Stewart thought he was in awe before he really is now, he’s not seen the character fight, or use his true skills. David successfully hits, and manages to take a fair chunk out of the dragons hp.

Stewart is next.

“Rowan is going to cast Misty Step as a bonus action, and for his action he’s going to cast Wall of Water around the dragon. This means fire damage is halved.”

The dragon goes again. Followed by the team in order. When the flames are directed towards Davian, Stewart, as Rowan, panics.

“Can Rowan use a spell as a bonus action?”

He nods.

“Yeah, I was wondering if I could cast Control Flames to direct them away from Davian and the party?”

He rolls, keeping his fingers crossed.

“17+3…forty 20?”

visionarypreist-david

I do love a dirty 20

Jay said but the rest of the players he was dating laughed for a different reason.

Davian and the party!?

We see how it is.

It's like our terrible boy and name.

Finally someone here appreciates me- my character's value.

You succeed in diverting the flames away. As you all see the massive cone of flame approaching and then suddenly veering off at an angle, moving around you and other flammable objects in its way.

The fight continues for a couple more rounds. Hit given hits taken. But just as Jay announces.

The dragon is bloodied.

Signifying it's at half health or less, a few more turns go, and then on its turn the dragon flies away from the fight.

Everyone in range gets an attack of opportunity.

So the party rolls. Hemlock hits it with another crossbow bolt, Elbain inst in direct range, Frymri gets a hit in. Davian does too, and Stewart.

Oh damn!

You meet you beat.

Just on the AC!

Close one.

When the smoke has cleared, both literally and figuratively from the fight, NPCs come out from the woodwork cheering and celebrating the party for scaring off the dragon become he caused more damage.

People who at first looks warily at Frymri after lots of dragon fear circulated lately now readily accept him. Merchants find whatever wares they can salvage and offer them to the group. Naked tent goers practically throwing themselves at them.

That's a little far.

It's realistic! Everyone loves a man who can protect them.

Jay looks to Stewart his expression trying to glad an agreement from him. Backup on this.

Yeah well Rowan protected our asses the best with that control flames move.

Who needs cure wounds first?

Oh Frymri is pretty low, but he's probably occupied at the moment.

I've got a little over half health.

I wouldn't mind a curing session from Hemlock.

Psssh. It's cure wounds not lay on hands. Cool your jets.

What way did the dragon go?

You notice he's flying even more north.

'Coward!'

While that's happening, David pauses to do some math. Rowan was on 15, and he'd taken a hit in battle...

Rowan probably needs it the most, I'm surprised you weren't downed.

Okay, Hemlock is going to run over to Rowan first.

'Rowan, since you helped us in battle I would like to offer some healing. Unless you can do it yourself I know you have magic too and Im not trying to say mine is better but as a gesture of friendship. Can I heal you?'

He rolls.

D8.... Plus.... That's 10 more hp.

Then in character he goes

'Us magic users have to watch out for eachother'

'I think spellcaster has a better ring to it than magic user'

Probably better you did the heal Ross, we know Stewart's dice luck was not it this game.

Good use of the bad rolls as a character moment though.

Like that one session where Frymri couldn't do slightly of hand at all so we said his claws were too big.

Or all of Davian's terrible deception rolls!

Such a terrible liar.

It's only because the tattoo gives him away so he can't pretend to be someone else.

So now its canon Rowan does bad in crowds.

Guess we'll have to keep an eye on him.

The boyfriend's share a look.

Yeah Davian can protect him.

visionarypriest-stewart

‘Wait I didn’t mean…it’s not…well it was aimed at Davian…’

Half Stewart, half Rowan answers with a chuckle as they keep playing. And honestly, that would be a good band name.

Stewart takes a few more hits, he keeps it to himself trust he’s almost down for the count. He’d be lying if he didn’t find the drama entertaining, he wondered how they’d react to Rowan going down.

He breathes a sigh of relief when the dragon starts to back away, he looks through his haphazardly thrown together inventory to see if he has anything for healing. He must remember to do that for the next session.

“Rowan’s on 3 hp…”

He looks over at Ross.

“Thanks.” ‘Yes I agree, it’s best to look out for each other.’

He adds it up.

“That brings Rowan up to health. He’ll need it, he’s very weak.”

He chuckles and writes it down, as well as writing down where the dragon is heading off to. He looks between everyone. The stories and how they incorporate the fails and wins in to their characters was a nice touch.

“Yeah, sorry the rolls weren’t great. But I agree, I think it does make for good character building.”

He glances at Jay.

“So, the dragon is going north? What’s up north?”

Stewart chuckles and raises an eyebrow.

“Well only if Davian want to protect the newcomer. I’ll go with the flow David.”

visionarypreist-david

Davian will consider it. Especially given how much Rowan needs it.

Up north there is a town some refer to as the northern extension of the main city where the castle resides. It holds the largest elf population outside of the main kingdom's surrounding area. They aren't due for a festival anytime soon, but past that town is the dragons keep.

How far is it?

A weeks journey between towns and another 2 weeks from there to the keep.

Well lock in for some travel sessions.

Any last supplies we need knowing the journey ahead?

They discuss plans and strategy and routes, while David feels himself glancing over at Stewart unconsciously. Combat took most of his focus, but now he just likes watching Stewart interact in character even if it's not with him. He's good.

What's Davian doing?

Oh he's giving a nod or sound of affirmation here and there but he's not the most excited for the impending trip.

Very on brand.

Maybe Rowan will teach him to get over his bias.

Rowan can have his own thing too.

Back into the campaign they start talking to the locals, getting travel advice from merchants, and David takes a moment to step away from the table to use the toilet. The moment he's gone the game ceases, not that they necessarily had to, but...

We'd love to learn more about you Stewart. Your interests...

He says with a hinting sort of tone.

Have any pets?

Ross chimes in, not in on the true angle here.

Any people in your life?

Nick diverts as a save, clearly meaning romantic. As in a partner or partners.

Feel free to tell us as much as you like.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart writes what’s in the north and circles that there’s a dragon’s keep. He joins in here and there, glancing between characters, lingering on David, hoping he’s not being noticed.

Stewart, as Rowan plays it off cooly. The hinting of the bias towards elves was there but he didn’t want to just outright ask. Half for the plot, half to make sure he knows where Rowan stands in the new dynamic.

He makes a note of learning more about Hemlock and Elbain, he knows a little about Frymri and Davian, but that’s due to context clues in the dialogue. He doesn’t want to seem to favour one over the others.

He glances over as David gets up to leave and look back at his notes. He’s expecting the game to continue but Jay pauses it.

Well that’s innocent enough, maybe he doesn’t want to explain things twice when David gets back. He finishes up his notes and notices the question is now directed at him,not Rowan.

“Oh, um, well, I love reading. Admittedly I’m a bit of a coffee snob, it’s not that deep though. I play the piano. Sometimes I teach private lessons to uni students.”

He looks over at Ross and chuckles a little.

“I haven’t had any pets for years, not since I was a kid. I had a goldfish, but I really wanted a dog or a cat.”

He shrugs a little. He did love that goldfish though. Managed to have a decent size tank and decorated with all of the ornaments he could think of. He would have even been happy with a guinea pig or a rabbit, even a hamster rat or mouse, not a wild rate though.

He used to get books on pets from the library and read all about what they needed and how they would interact with people.

But his mum was allergic to most animal dander so it was a no. He did love that goldfish though.

He looks back at Nick.

“No, not really, I live on my own. Haven’t been in a relationship for a long time either. I put it down to business.”

He shrugs a little, smiling. Then it clicks. They waited for David to go, he was honestly flattered, but this wasn’t really his thing, not with multiple people. He wouldn’t even know where to begin.

“I’m not really looking at the moment though.”

He hopes he doesn’t come across as too rude. In an ideal world he’d date David. But David was clearly off limits.

visionarypreist-david

Jay sits back with a very dramatic pout.

That is a shame. Especially since you're so cute. I'd thought you looked interested, but I suppose my powers of perception are failing in real life.

Laying it on a bit thick there, babe.

Oh hush Nicholas he's clearly hiding a different reason. I'm trying to guilt the truth from him.

What are you both talking about?

Nobody was keeping their voice down about any of the conversation. When Stewart does explain his reason for turning them all down, Gill laughs first.

You thought Jay was trying to-!

Hes cut off by another fit of laughter.

Oui I understand why you'd assume that, but trust me there is no question as to when I'm propositioning someone. It is completely fine if you are not poly, you're still welcome to play, old sport. But if you are ever looking...

Jay is like the human version of Grindr though. If you wanted to meet someone knowing him I your best in.

Ross intertwines his hand with Gill's by way of showing how they met.

4/5 success rate apparently.

Not for long.

Soon he plans to have a perfect success rate.

That's the moment David comes back, clearly having washed his hands properly which some guys don't, and sit back down looking around the suddenly quiet table.

What did I miss?

Nothing Davian, we paused the game.

And...

Stewart had a goldfish!

That's what you took away from this conversation Ross?

I like fish... I have a beta.

We got to know a bit more about Stewart.

I can see that.

David says flatly, wondering why they'd wait for him to leave to do that. Honestly he assumed Jay would give his whole embarrassing pitch to Stewart while he was gone, but the other man didn't seem awkward. Besides he already learned pieces of it. Now he wished he'd been there to learn more about Stewart besides his fish.

After a few more random encounters on the road they ended the session for the night. Nick and Gill going to one of the shelves to look at Warhammer minis, David staying at the table a Ross showed pictures of his aforementioned beta fish on his phone, and Jay taking Stewart over to the other side of the room to look at the newly stocked dice displays except they didn't talk about dice.

I don't want to keep pressing you if it's a sore subject but I pride myself on being a sex and relationship expert. It pains me to see someone sad and single, happy and single I respect, but you... So, is there a reason you haven't dated for a while and aren't looking now. I really want to help, as a completely platonic friend not trying to seduce you. Think of me as your fairy godmother, emphasis on the fairy.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart’s been clocked. Though he guess he wasn’t hiding it all that well. Jay has seen right through him. How could he possibly tell a group of people who kindly invited him to play d&d with them, that he’s developed a crush on only one of them and not bit a few hours ago, he bumped in to his ex who purposefully made him spill coffee on himself?

He smiles softly at Ross and Gill, that was sweet, as well as Nick and Jay. He looks over as David comes back and smiles softly.

“Yeah, owned a goldfish when I was a kid.”

He reaffirms and wishes that David was there so he could learn more about him too. He wasn’t sure how he felt with the attention being on him.

He regards David’s flat tone. Does he really not like the polycule in that sense, he clearly gets on with them in game and as friends, but Stewart can’t help but wonder if David thought he might just be another one.

When the game is over he goes j we to look at the new dice. He doesn’t need any more, he has a set, and sure they rolled badly tonight, that doesn’t mean they will all the time. There was no harm in looking though.

He glances over as Jay stands beside him.

“I didn’t realise I came across that way.”

Stewart chuckles to himself morosely. He looks at Jay properly, but in a way that he feels like he can genuinely open up to him.

“I appreciate that, thank you, genuinely. It’s just…I don’t know…well I do know. I haven’t had very good relationships in the past. One was a very large age gap.”

He pauses as Jay asks him.

“I was 19, he was 39, he was my piano teacher actually. Very strict.”

He left that there and sighed.

“The other relationship, it started off well, he was very sweet, but as time grew by nothing could please him. We weren’t good for each other.”

He runs his hand through his hair and smiles through it.

“You’ve sussed me out though. It’s not that I don’t want another relationship. I just, I…I don’t have a high view of myself and due to everything that went on in the past it makes me wonder if I actually deserve one…a relationship; and then I don’t want to put my baggage on to someone so…it’s easier to pretend not to want if that makes sense?”

He hopes his train of thought has t been too much for Jay. He steps away from the dice slightly and gives Jay his full attention.

visionarypreist-david

What sort of age gap?

Jay had slept with older men in the past, but those were when he was safely mid 20's and stable, and had met them while both were adults. Strangers with no power dynamic. What Stewart was describing sounded predatory.

Not good.

The next one didn't sound much better. It explained Stewart's behavior towards relationships perfectly. But his pity and worry assuage slightly when Stewart clearly lays out what he knows are his own issues. Clearly this man has had some healthy retrospection, and that means all Jay has to do if find a cure for final shred of doubt.

Stewart, a man like you deserves a relationship most of all. A good healthy stable one, oui? With someone who will willingly take on your burdens and your baggage.

He smiles a bit wistfully. Placing a hand on Stewart's shoulder.

Mmmm A man who will show you love and care and be pleased by you simply for being yourself.

Jay gives him a bit of a contemplative look.

You want to submit I can tell, but there's a part of you that likes a bit of fight before you give in just to be sure it's for the right person... It's adorable. Oh dungeons and dragons tells me a lot about a person, old sport.

He smirks turning Stewart slowly by the shoulder guiding him to face a certain way.

Like how you want a strong caring capable man who has shown he'll protect you and your comfort. A soft dom if you will. Hmm.

Hopefully Stewart recognizes all those times David stepped in to stop them from making jokes that could make him feel awkward. Stood up for him. And the sorts of things he did in character even while their characters didn't get along.

I've met some good ones in my time.

He whispers the last part as they're looking in David's direction while he smiles at pictures of beta fish and animatedly asks about them with a genuine curiosity you wouldn't have suspected from his previous indifference to the topic of the fish.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Yeah, not the best introduction to relationships but…you know.”

Stewart sighs softly

“You read me like a book.”

Stewart comments, though he’s not upset by it.

“Jay, someone like that almost sounds too good to be true.”

He’s not uncomfortable in Jay’s presence, just uncomfortable talking about himself. He can’t disagree with what’s being said though. But he also can’t help but fight with himself about deserving a relationship. It’s a nasty thought process to spiral in to.

Someone dominant, now there’s an idea. He can see how David interacts with Jay and he wonders if that’s the typing person Jay means. He glances over at David as Jay speaks.

A soft dom? The idea sounds almost too good to be true. It does sound wonderful though.

David does seem like he’d be one of the good ones. It must be nice to have David all to himself, and then to have the option of others too. It seems David is quite a private person though, he respects that.

But as he watches David, how he’s genuinely interested in what Ross is telling him, he can’t help but let his heart swell as little. It was endearing to watch. He can’t help but let a smile creep across his lips.

“Someone like David?”

Now it’s Stewart’s turn to be wistful.

“That would be wonderful. It would be hard to find anyone like him though.”

visionarypreist-david

At that Jay chuckles

Oui you see what I'm getting at, someone like our Davian here. Is that what you're interested in for looks?

He smirks at the confirmation. Hook, line, sinker. Matchmaking is just so easy when you have the knowledge and experience he has there's no way Stewart doesn't know what he's getting at as he lays it on this thick. Nick would call him obvious, but what better way to be?

But he can tell there's still something holding Stewart back from actually going for David. What could it be when Stewart already knows he's packing, does he think Jay would suggest someone who'd be disappointing in bed.

Don't fret, monsieur, you have it on good authority. Me. That his performance rolls in bed are always critical successes. You just lie back and enjoy yourself, nothing to prove, while he fucks out every worry and fills your head with better things to focus on. Pleasure.

Jay is very proud of himself. He's even talked himself into being in the mood for a little submission tonight. Switch perks and problems.

Oh Davian!

He cuts Stewart's rebuttal off, the man is clearly nervous and admittedly lacks confidence. But how could he deny himself when the opportunity to ask David is right there.

David looks over and sees Jay being his usual up in your personal space touchy self with Stewart. The only question is why does this concern him? Unless Jay's been...

What is it?

He walks over and stands in front of the two.

I was having a little chat with Stewart here, and he has something to tell you.

Jay gives him a literal small push in the right direction, letting go of his contact, and just about shoving Stewart into David's arms. But he doesn't want to completely spook him before he even confesses.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Well, it’s not all about looks.”

Something he truly believes.

“But yes, if I were to have a type it would be…tall, strong…”

He lets himself drift away as Jay counties. Someone to hold him close, share his space, snuggle up to, keep him metaphorically safe. It would be nice to just not go home to an empty house all the time. And if there was a connection, a deep and meaningful connection, oh how that makes the sparks fly in the pit of his stomach.

How he’d love to feel safe to be himself and push back a little bit. Jay wasn’t wrong there. But most of all he just wants to quiet his brain and please his hypothetical partner.

‘While he fucks out every worry and fills your head with better things to focus on. Pleasure.’

And now he’s back in the room, face bright red.

“I don’t doubt that.”

And he didn’t. He didn’t doubt that Jay and David were having the best sex ever, while he can’t even get a decent partner in general, let alone adding sex into the mix.

‘Oh fuck, oh fuck, oh fuck…’

“But what about…”

And before he could protest, David was making his way to them. Why would Jay want him to confess his crush to his partner?

“David there’s…something…I was wondering…”

He startles as his phone rings. He picks it up and pulls the jacket tighter around himself as he excuses himself to take the call.

Why he still has this number he never donors.

“Yeah it’s still there because I’m still out….no I haven’t broken down…I’m busy.”

He looks back apologetically and tries to end the call as soon as possible without causing a scene. Surely he wasn’t waiting by his car? He goes back to join David.

“Um…”

He couldn’t possibly confess now.

“Just saw these dice, I’m not going to get any more but if I were it may be these. They’re like the inverted of yours, see?”

And what a perfect pair they’d be.

visionarypreist-david

This honestly could be anything. "I was wondering if you could back off on the hating my character" or "I was wondering if you'd like to go out". He's left on the cliffhanger when Stewart steps away to take a call he clearly wasn't anticipating.

What's he going to tell me, Jay?

He asks a little annoyed at the self righteous smirk.

Oh I wouldn't want to spoil the fun.

You didn't tell him about-

I only told him what he needs to know.

Like how earlier you told him how long my dick was.

You half did that yourself.

I know you said something, he's all flustered and then ran away.

Cute, isn't it. Just your type.

Then Stewart comes back, and he really had nothing to worry about because he just wanted to show him some dice.

Oh yeah those are cool. Guess you haven't been bit by the dice goblin bug if you're not tempted to collect every interesting one you see.

He leans over Stewart to look at the dice on display.

I totally get it though, one is enough for me.

At some point the dice sets and colors sort of blend into the background and he just kinda likes standing there with Stewart. Having him closely tucked against him. Smelling the residual coffee smell that's still on him. Enjoying having him there.

They're pretty. Don't know which color way I like better.

Imagine if his a Stewart's dice matched...He's pulled back to reality when Jay announced his and the rest of the groups departure.

Same time next week!

Bye!

Bye David! Bye Stewart!

Keep eachother company

He rolls his eyes at Jay. Made him worry it was something serious when it was just dice. But what was David really expecting. Was he hoping for an admission of mutual attraction already? After 2 sessions! That was quick.

Guess that's our cue to head out too. Unless you want to get the dice.

No harm in goading a friend into buying themselves a little treat.

Once they make it out to the car park David doesn't immediately split off from Stewart noticing how his posture goes ridgid. Following his eyeline to a man beside a car. He leans down and whispers in Stewart's ear.

Did you know him?

Before he can get a confirmation or denial the man looks over and spots them, walking over, David takes a small step forward half covering Stewart with his body and reaching the stranger first.

He clearly knows Stewart, but something is odd... Especially with the suspicious way in which the stranger asks who he is as if sizing him up. Still he plays it off friendly in case he's misreading. Putting his hand out to shake.

Hey I'm David, Stewart and I play a D&D campaign together.

visionarypriest-stewart

Dice? Dice! Is that the best he could come up with? Surely David will think he’s a fool for making that up on the spot. But he doesn’t. He just looks at them and nods and agrees.

Stewart relaxes slightly, though he still has a grip on his phone in his pocket. At the back of his mind he can’t help but wonder why the caller was still out and about. It’s been hours since their talk at Stewart’s favourite coffee shop.

He nods and smiles softly, letting go of his phone and bringing his hand to his side. David calling the dice pretty, it was really something to him. Because he actually meant it, he wasn’t condescending or belittling, he truly thought they were pretty.

“See you next week. I’ll be on time this time.”

Stewart jokes and promises as they all head off. And then it’s just them, but David’s right. They should go too. He looks back at the dice and shakes his head softly.

“Wouldn’t want to be greedy.”

He says, though he would never think that his fellow payers were greedy if they collected multitudes of dice. He follows David out on to the street and the idly walk to the car park.

As he looks up, he can’t help but react on instinct. He so wished he hadn’t though, because David had noticed. He quickly takes his glasses off and cleans them before putting the back on.

He knew who it was a mile away, but he didn’t want David to know.

“Oh…yeah. I know him.”

Why is he waiting at his car? How long had he been there.

Stewart was about to speak first to defuse the situation before it got worse, but the man walked forward.

What Stewart wasn’t banking on, was David standing between them.

“Who is this?”

Greg says and smiles though it doesn’t quite meet his eyes as he shoots his hand in David’s direction as he asks the question.

Greg tilts his head and holds out his hand for David to shake.

“David. Hi nice to meet you, name’s Greg.”

He looks back at Stewart and takes in the fact he’s not changed. He raises an eyebrow but doesn’t comment.

“You play together?! Stewart you haven’t played for years, what my campaign not good enough for you?”

‘Oh no…’

He laughs and nudges David and playfully rolls his eyes.

“I’ve only just started again.”

Stewart smiles politely and nods in confirmation. His heart is beating so loud though he worries that Greg could hear it. He just hopes David doesn’t say where.

Greg shrugs nonchalantly.

“Well that’s nice for you. Just don’t fall in to old habits.”

Stewart smiles flatly and nods. Greg looks at David.

“Why are you by my car?”

“I was in town earlier and saw it, came back and it was still here, just wanted to make sure you were alright. I would have hated it if someone hurt you. It’s not like you could fight back.”

Stewart swallows and nods.

“Well I’m okay, so…thanks…you can go now if you like.”

Greg looks between them and doesn’t leave just yet as he sizes up David.

“Not interrupting anything, am I?”

visionarypreist-david

Oh you know how it is, you get busy for a while, take a break, then a new campaign catches your interest. I'm sure it's nothing personal.

Though David himself has only been in one campaign he knows enough about the culture of longtime players to hopefully quell the former DMs worries.

Old habits? What old habits? Stewart doesn't seem like the type to min max or rules lawyer, he's actually super fun to play with.

He doesn't really want to add anything. Clearly there's some tension there he's unaware of. Maybe he shouldn't overstep. But when the stranger looks at him he feels like he needs to say something in Stewart's defense.

He's actually been doing quite well at our table.

David wants to out him arm around Stewart's shoulder, and pull him into his side. He wants to- but that's way too far to do for a friend talking with an old friend of theres.

Yeah you are. We were talking about the game, way too much lore to catch you up to speed.

He points to the car that Greg is still blocking.

Plus he's already told you you're good to go mate.

'I'm here now. I can fight back for him.' Woah!

He meets the challenge, sizing up Greg in return.

See you some other time, Greg.

It's only once David's in Stewart's car he turns over with an apologetic expression.

I'll head out once he's gone, you don't actually need to-

He didn't want to force himself onto Stewart for a ride if the man didn't want it. Even if he did sort of want to stay with and protect him.

So.... Your ex DM, huh?

He says conversationally not aware how apt the ex descriptor was in this case.

visionarypriest-stewart

Greg looks between them, how David is standing slightly in front of Stewart. He smirks to himself.

“I see what this is about. Well I hope this little infatuation lasts for both your sakes.”

He sideways glances as Stewart.

“There were only so many self pitying backstories I could put up with.”

Was it about Stewart? Or his characters, he left it ambiguous.

“Yes. See you around.”

With that he walks past them both as they head towards the car. Stewart unlocks it and blinks when David gets in, though he’s quickly worked out what he’s doing. He resists the urge to check the car over to make sure it has t been damaged.

As Greg finally leaves he gets in too and sits by David.

“Thanks, David. That was…really kind.”

He sighs softly and looks out as Greg goes out into the near horizon.

“Yeah, we didn’t always see eye to eye.”

‘In more ways than one.’

“I can give you a lift home if you like? It’ll save you from walking back to the bus stop, and if he’s still hanging around and you know…I doubt he’d do anything but you don’t need him hindering you?”

He moves in his seat, the stuffiness of the jacket was getting to him now.

“I’ve just got tae take this jacket off though, it’s doing my head in.”

He unzips it and takes it off to reveal his coffee stained shirt and undershirt. He’d done the Lauren tuck and everything. And under the coffee smell, was a hint of what was left over from his cologne he’d put on.

He looks down at himself and can’t help but pout in frustration and humiliation.

“Sorry I’m a mess…someone bumped into me earlier. Do t worry though it wasn’t too hot, just a shock. It’s why I was late”

visionarypreist-david

If you're offering. I'd appreciate that.

Not only does he want to spend more time with Stewart but his awkwardness on relying on people for transportation is overridden by the need to keep Stewart safe. Be around in case something happened, given he can't fight back.

When Stewart removes his jacket and reveals the massive coffee stain on his shirt, it now becomes obvious why he kept it on. He wasn't going to say anything until Stewart pointed it out himself. Looking so self conscious.

Happens to the best of us. Guess your bad luck wasn't only in game today. As long as you didn't get burned. And now I feel like a jerk for being so harsh on you about it.

Then suddenly he remembers.

Oh do you want my shirt?

He begins scrambling in his bag, pulling out a spare t-shirt he usually keeps on hand in case he forgets to bring a change of clothes to the gym. He hands it over to Stewart casually.

I promise it's clean, and probably better than sitting in a coffee soaked shirt all day.

Lending him a shirt was the least he could do in exchange for a ride.

Don't fret about it. Just bring it back next session.

As Stewart changes David looks away out of respect so he doesn't have to step out of the car. The way his Scots had slipped in before when taking off his jacket plays on loop in his mind unbidden.

The one issue is as he stares out the opposite window he can see a reflection of Stewart in the window out into the darkness. It's blurry and less detailed, a bit smudgy even though the window's clean, and just enough for the imagination.

A faint dreamlike outline of motions. A hint at what's happening accompanied by the sounds. David shuts his eyes but the image is already burned onto his eyelids. He makes sure to open them by the time Stewart finishes so he doesn't seem too prudish. Not that anyone who's met the D&D company he keeps would ever assume that.

His shirt is pretty big on Stewart, a nice cozy extra amount of fabric. It looks so domestic. Like a boyfriend walking around in your hoodie or borrowed clothes. Cute. If only he could fit in Stewart's shirt and be surrounded by that cologne, old book smell, and coffee. That's so quintessentially Stewart.

Maybe when Greg was talking about infatuation he wasn't referring to drive to play the campaign? But no it must be that, because it's not like Stewart has this same infatuation. He's only interested in D&D together.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Please don’t worry I did’nae- didn’t think you were a jerk. I was genuinely going to text to say I was on my way, but the whole coffee thing stopped me. It wasn’t too hot I promise.”

The heat in Stewart’s cheeks started to rise. Was David really going to remove his shirt just for him? After what Jay described he would t put it past him. Then he felt utterly stupid. Of course that would be a ridiculous notion. A spare gym shirt makes much more sense.

“Thank you so much!”

Two for two for being kind and generous. Jay is a lucky man.

“If that’s okay? I’ll bring it back washed.”

He puts the drivers seat back to give himself more room. He takes off his shirt and over shirt and flings them unceremoniously in the back. The cool evening air causes the faint hair on his arms to pick up and his skin to raise with goosebumps.

He can see that David is being respectful, in a way he’s glad that he’s not looking, he’s skinny as it is and there’s not all that much to look at. But a part of him deep down wants David to see.

Comparison is the killer of joy, but he doesn’t match up to Jay, he can’t help but wonder if David would have possibly liked him.

He shivers slightly as he remembers the reason for him changing in the first place. If it weren’t for Greg he would have had to borrow the shirt. And he didn’t want Greg making his thoughts murky.

The shirt was oversized. The neckline drooped low, showing the top of his chest and clavicle. Whatever detergent David used, Stewart liked it, clean and fresh but not overpowering. It was admittedly very cosy.

When he’s done he turns to look at David.

“Thanks again.”

He says and brings his seat back forward so he can drive.

“So, where do you live?”

He puts the directions in and heads off, hoping he can spend a little more time with David on the drive.

visionarypreist-david

He leans back and rattles off his address as Stewart types it into GPS. Hoping it's not too much a drive out of the way for Stewart. Once they get fully into the swing of the drive there's a lull for conversation, games talk may be too distracting, and there's something much more recent on his mind to ask about.

I hope you stay interested in the game. Kinda like what Greg said before.

He pauses.

What's his deal though anyways, no offense to your friend but waiting by the car isn't like former DM behavior I'm pretty sure that's just for like stalkers and boyfriends.

His words are nice and caring but if vibe is totally off. He wants to understand their connection from Stewart's perspective.

You can totally tell me to fuck off if it's too personal.

'I just want to know if I hate him for jealous reasons or valid ones'

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart’s lips fall open slightly, taken aback. The game is fun, crushes be damned, it’s a nice distraction of an evening. He presses said lips back together in thought.

Great. Now Greg has made him look like he’s flaky.

“I’m enjoying the game, it’ll be interesting to see where it goes.”

He feels the answer is too flat, too generic but it’s true.

<‘No one’s coming to save you,’

Greg says as he sits back in his dm chair at the table. Stewart, mostly in character looks through his notes. Why was it always his character Greg picked on.

‘You won’t get the information out of me.’

‘So brave, so bratty…’

Stewart pulls a face and ignores the chuckles from around the table.

‘I have my ways. You’re mine now. And what I say goes. You watch as the vampire gestures, he casts a wordless spell and you find you can’t move…’

‘Don’t I get a wisdom on con save?’

‘Nope. You’re already captured, he’s just toying with you…’

‘With my character…’

‘With you. It’s what he would do as a character and you failed to not get caught by him.’

Greg addresses the rest of the table.

‘The vampire king takes pride, and takes his time for what he’s about to do…’ >

“It’s okay, I don’t mind. He wasn’t just my ex DM. I dated him too. We broke up a long time ago.He didn’t take it well.”

He shrugs a little and looks at the road.

“I’m not sure why he was waiting there though.”

‘Or if he’d waited the whole length of time.’

visionarypreist-david

So there was some romantic vibes he was getting from their interaction, one sided at least. Maybe Greg had meant more when he said "infatuation" but it was probably best not to read into the words of a bitter scorned lover.

You dated your DM... Ha! You really do fit in here, join the club.

David laughed hoping to lift the mood he'd caused.

And you know I get the clingy ex thing. I wish yours was more amicable.

He'd fucking trade Stewart in a second. The man seemed like he could handle Jay's jokes and attention without being embarrassed and David could certainly handle any threats to his safety.

Traitorously though this also gave David some information on what Stewart was into. Greg looked like he worked out, not as much, but at least that meant his strength was more appealing than intimidating. He wasn't scaring him off.

I don't want to put any guesses on his intentions you know him best, but be careful.

He puts his arm on the back of Stewart's seat to comfort without taking his attention from the road. A way to show he's there for him.

visionarypriest-stewart

The blue of his eyes slide in David’s direction over his glasses, he his lips curl up in to a soft smile as he chuckles along with David. Clingy ex? Stewart wonders who this could be, he’s with Jay, right? Surely Jay wasn’t trying to set him up with David?

Stewart can’t help but wonder though, this is two weeks in a row David hadn’t gone back with Jay. Maybe they had a schedule for when they hook up. He decides that maybe he should read up on this.

“It’s fine, I should have seen the signs earlier. I’m glad you e had a better experience though, best to be amicable.”

He sighs softly. He wasn’t betting on seeing Greg again, let alone twice in one evening. Let alone being, no, walking with David. If he was honest with himself, he’d admit he was unnerved, shaken up. But the game was a nice distraction, if only Greg had t waited around. He doesn’t think about what may have happened if David hadn’t been there.

Stewart had only really spent time with David twice. Greg was no where near as…nice as David. In more ways than one, and when he was with Greg, he only really worked out for looks. And even Stewart knew that bodybuilding didn’t really build strength, not real strength, and he had a hunch David was actually strong and fit.

“I’ll be careful.”

Stewart confirms.

“Hopefully he won’t show up again.”

He doesn’t move away when David puts his arm in the seat, but he can’t seriously be blushing again?! He swears he can feel the phantom touch pouring through the back of the seat, but that would be crazy.

A cheesy line dances on the tip of his tongue.

‘You really are kind, I’m grateful you were there.’

But he doesn’t want to ruin the moment, if they can at least be friends that would be more than enough. And the last thing g he wants to do is play into Greg’s words. He doesn’t want to seem completely pathetic.

“I’m grateful. And I’m sorry he was an arse.”

visionarypreist-david

Don't mention it. He was more a pain in your ass than mine.

David mentally kicks himself as soon as the words escape. Not having meant it that way, but with the new knowledge that Stewart and Greg dated it may come off like that. All he meant was Greg was more rude to Stewart than he was to him.

Clearly he's jealous that you're in my game now. Our game. Jay's game... Whatever you wanna call it.

Yeah best to call attention to his slip up instead of just letting it go hopefully unnoticed. David pulls his arm back, completely messing up everything he's saying around Stewart right now.

He's saved from further humiliation when they turn the final corner, and the building comes into view. He directs Stewart through the confusing bit and finally they stop.

Thanks for the lift, Stewart. Cant wait to play again next week.

He smiles at him.

I like the drama we've got between Davian and Rowan.

He waved goodbye as Stewart drove off, and went back inside. Phone without any notifications, house empty, and dark. David let out a sigh, even though D&D was over he didn't feel done being social tonight. Or maybe his brain was just so active because he was worrying about Stewart.

Not knowing how far away Stewart lived he waited a while before texting him, maybe an hour or so.

David: Hope you got home safe.

Only to see a different sort of message notification he'd gotten just before that.

visionarypriest-stewart

When David brings his arm back, Stewart can’t help but feel a little sad. A reminder that David isn’t his, and it’ll probably never work while he’s with Jay.

He nods and opens his mouth to speak, but David can already see Greg is the jealous type, why he has the need to tell David he’s unsure, he stops himself though.

The rabbit warren that David navigates stumps Stewart for a moment, even with the satnav it’s confusing. He’s glad David is there to direct him, he wouldn’t want to get lost.

“It’s my pleasure, thank you for the shirt. I’ll bring it back.”

He turns to look at David fully now, as he gets out of the car.

“I can’t wait to see where they go.”

He says genuinely, this is the most fun he’s had in a campaign for years. He waves and eventually unfortunately drives off, managing to make it out and on the open road back to his home.

When he gets home he double locks his car and looks around before scurrying to his own house. He feels unnerved after seeing Greg’s. It’s not like he’s here now though. He takes his sullied clothes and puts them in the washing machine ready for the morning.

He has a quick shower to freshen up and head ti his bedroom. It’s quiet, and usually he finds the dark a comfort, but this time he really could do with some company.

‘Someone like…’

Stewart scrolls though the dating apps and stops when he finds one that speaks ti him.

He makes his profile, trying g not to overthink it as he looks through the options. Then there’s one that stops him dead in his tracks.

He swipes to like him and re-reads the bio. No harm in trying he can only say no. But no sooner had he liked Gu he got a notification, he almost jumped out of his skin when he saw it was David.

Stewart: Thanks David, all safe thank you. And now thankfully coffee free. Hope you’re having g a good night.

visionarypreist-david

S has liked your profile.

It was from a dating app he hadn't used in months. Made a profile on, and would check it sometimes then go on a long hiatus without it, usually turning back on lonely nights for chats. Really only meeting up with people he'd met in person but the apps were good for... Well a night like this.

David tapped the notification which brought him straight to "S"'s profile. He let out a low whistle. The first image faceless as expected by the anonymous name, but showed a topless mirror selfie taken by someone clearly trying to play coy.

Thin frame a rosy tint from embarrassment, holding their shoulder with the hand not holding the phone that his arm covered his chest. S was shy, adorable. He read the profile. Noting the compatibility between S looking for a Soft Dom and his profile mentioning he was one.

So that's what drew him in.

David muttered to himself, debating if he was in the mood to engage. When he got the text reply from Stewart. Almost forgetting that conversation.

When the urge to text Stewart got too strong. Close to sending him a good night text or something else definitely a step too far, David reopened the app and liked "S"'s profile. Matching them, and opening a chat window.

He triple checked it was the dating app and NOT the texts to Stewart before typing.

Guy: If you're cold I know some ways to warm you up.

Guy: Do you flush that pink all the way down?

Open strong. Lead it into flirty already hopefully that's what he was looking for and if didn't make him look like a creep. Not the kind of line he'd use without the pre established knowledge this was a dating app made for this kind of topic.

And when the reply comes in receptive David is proud. If only Jay knew he was able to still get guys without the help of him giving "advice". It's why David had to make his profile anonymous in the first place. Avoid the preconceived notions.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart sits on the bed and places his phone down beside him. Was this really the right thing to do? He wondered if this is what Jay meant? His hand overs over the phone as he prepares to look at Guy’s profile again.

‘It’s not like I’m actually going to meet him? Would it be so bad to imagine he’s D-…’

His phone buzzes, a new notification that’s not a normal text. So David didn’t text back then, understandable.

“Oh shit.”

Guy has matched with you.

New Message from Guy.

“Oh fuck.”

He carefully picks up his phone and makes sure to close any other messages app to make sure he doesn’t accidentally A) message the dnd group, or B) message David.

He opens the chat and brings his hand up to his mouth. He seems to feel everything all at once. Giddy and he can’t help but let out a small laugh. Is this real?! Someone is actually flirting with him right now. But at the same time it’s terrifying, he does t even know the guy, literally.

Does he over explain and say he’s never done this before? Does he just go with the flow? He starts to think that maybe this was t such a great idea, but he finds himself replying.

S: Oh? And what ways would those be?

Stewart can feel his ears turning red. That answers that question then. How does he do this without wanting to seem too keen. His fingers tremble with excitement.

S: It’s been a long time since I’ve checked, so would you like to judge for yourself?

He scrambles around the room, unceremoniously in his boxers, making sure there was no identifiable things left around. For all he k knows, Guy could be one of Jay’s exes. He makes sure everything is clear behind him and waits for a response. He doesn’t want to send any unsolicited pictures.

Now he takes the opportunity to look at Guy’s pictures again. Damn, he’s all but perfect. If he were wearing a shirt, Stewart would be hot under the collar.

visionarypreist-david

David laid back on his bed with a satisfied smirk. One hand behind his head, the other propping up his phone and typing. One had to get good at typing out messages one handed for things like this.

Guy: Show me.

He dated. Ready for the picture. But S was a damn good tease as the image that came through was a tilted down angle of his boxers, fingers idly on the hem, and barely tugging it down. Only just showing the base clearly. But the outline of his bulge was there, not yet aroused.

David rolled his eyes amused. He could fix that.

Guy: You need my help getting those off, S?

He waits for confirmation. Knowing they're tipping into sexting territory over just flirting. It's clearly especially wanted when S takes the extra step to specifically ask him how he does it.

Guy: I've got you.

Guy: My hands on your thighs while I straddle your knees. Pulling down your boxers with one hand my other hand tracing the exposed skin.

Guy: Feel hot and bothered yet?

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart all but squeaks as he gasps at Guy’s reply. His confidence oozes through the words.

S: What would you do if you were here?

“Oh my god, what ahm ahye dee-in?”

He mutters under his breath he reads the messages over again. He looks around. If anyone’s watching g this, they’d be in stitches. Here he was, sat on the end of his bed, completely flustered sexting a man he hasn’t even met yet.

But Guy has got him, he’s okay, he’s talking him through it. Sure it’s nerve wracking, but that’s because this is new. He wants to make sure it’s good for Guy, that he looks good for him, it’s not scary because he’s uncomfortable, far from it.

He spies something in the corner of the room. Now admittedly, his piano was downstairs, but sometimes there was a call and need for remote lessons. Why he kept the tripod in his room he never knew, but hey, maybe it could help.

S: Like this? Please let me know if it’s not, or if it’s too much…

He sets up the tripod and makes sure his face isn’t in frame as sets up the shot. He stars the timer and takes a few photos in succession of him removing his boxers. He’s definitely feeling ‘hot and bothered, evidence in the photos.

S: I am now.

And true to Guy’s theory, he does flush red all the way down.

Stewart can feel his heart pounding in his ears as he deletes the photos from his camera roll, but not the app.

He positions himself to pose more coyly he doesn’t want to look like a complete slut, he’s too desperate. He sends the picture through.

S: Is this good for you?

visionarypreist-david

Guy: You're so good for me.

It takes him a while to text it because he'd been staring at the pictures for too long. Almost a drop motion flip book of carefully framed photos of S removing his boxers showing off more and more pink tinged skin.

He can't be fucking real.

David whispers to the room. It's too good to be true, but he's affected by it anyway. S is too good at this. The photos the words. He's a dream.

Guy: Not too much.

Guy: Dont worry about that. Or anything for that matter. I'll tell you what to think you tell me how you feel.

He pauses.

Guy: Now lie back for me.

Guy: And whoever else is there taking your pictures. Tripod?

Because it'd be insane if there was another person there and he was still sexting him. Although that was probably somebody's thing. Jay might have a story or two like that.

But Said wasn't thinking of Jay, or any of his previous boyfriends. He was imagining S as Stewart, despite himself.

When S confirms it's a tripod he jokes.

Guy: Such a sophisticated setup, S.

Guy: Never thought I'd be jealous of a damn tripod.

visionarypriest-stewart

He’s messed up, why could r he just be normal and take regular pictures? Even if they were clunky and awkward at least he would seem more genuine.

S: It’s a tripod, it was laying in the corner, I thought I’d just show you a better angle so you can see more.

He confirms this by having the tripod in frame as he takes a careful mirror selfie.

S: It’s just me. I’m completely alone.

He sighs softly and relaxes again. He lies back on the bed and waits for Guy to message back.

S: Perhaps the tripod could give you a better view, it might feel like you’re here.

He starts to blush again, regardless of the cool night air. Causing his skin to prick up in goosebumps. At least he thinks it’s due to the temperature.

He looks down at his phone and blushes.

S: Well, I’m tall, but thin, so it makes me look smaller than what I am. Especially next to tall guys. I do have dark hair that flops a little over my forehead.

S: Glasses?

He bites his lower lip as he reads. Excitement, curiosity and thrill courses through him.

S: I do have glasses. I wouldn’t lie to you, I’d want to behave for you. See? 😇

He sends the picture of his spare glasses.

S: Well spotted.

S:…

S: So you know your way around a dungeon then?

visionarypreist-david

Guy: Well if I was there with you I'd still be straddling your legs. Look at the small guy below me, card my hand through your dark brown hair, take off your glasses.

He hadn't meant to send that last bit. Too lost in the image of Stewart.

Guy: I'm assuming your hair color from the rest of you, and ignore the glassss thing. It's not a kink or something I just like how they look on a guy and got carried away.

He's fucked up.

Guy: You don't have to lie for me. My pride isn't that weak.

Oh he is behaving quite nicely. But it also doesn't make him think of Stewart any less than to see a players handbook under the glasses. It's not Stewart though, the glasses are different, thicker frames whole different shape.

Guy: D&D players handbook?

He chuckles at the dungeon comment.

Guy: I dabble

Guy: But there's only one thing I want to be exploring tonight.

Now they're back where they left off.

Guy: I'd give you a description of me, but it's not like you could see me clearly without your glasses.

Guy: All you have to go off is touch and feel. But I can't settle for just my hands as I pepper kisses down your chest.

Guy: Down. Lower and lower... and lower following the trial of your beautiful blushing.

Guy: Id mark you. Kiss you hard enough to bruise.

Guy: Would you like that?

Its part sexy question and part trepidation as he hasn't gotten any response form S so far.

Guy: S are you there?

visionarypriest-stewart

He suddenly feels self conscious. He looks at himself through the front facing camera and can’t help but scan his eyes all over his body.

But guys descriptions had him fighting with his own self. He could imagine the man was here.

‘Stop giving him David’s face!’

But it was like he could really feel Guy’s words lift from the screen and over his body. He lies back and squirms a little on the bed, rubbing his legs and thighs together to try and get some sort of friction without touching himself before he’s told to.

He arches his neck and throws his head back onto the soft pillows behind him.

His mouth drops open at the idea of guy marking him. For a moment, there’s a flit of panic. He breathes deeply and reads the text over and over. Guy is talking him through it, he’s explaining exactly what he’s doing, there’s no surprises. It would be an expected pain. He lets his shoulders drop as he relaxes, letting out a small pan as he does.

He then blinks when he gets a further notification.

“Shit.”

S: Sorry, just overwhelmed, I’ve never felt this good before, or this safe…

Before he notices what he’s put he’s sent the message, why isn’t his brain working right now?

“Fuckkk.”

S: I just feel so good, I hope you are too?

S: I’m so turned on right now🫦🥺🥹🥲

He sends another photo, teasing the idea of how turned on he really is. Just a glimpse, not wanting to give away too much, but also not wanting to send without permission.

visionarypreist-david

Holy shit. They really are doing this. Because not only is S turned on, but David is too. He sends back a picture of his own, tenting through his loose sleep shorts evident. He's not going to hide it like S does, even if technically S is more exposed than he is.

Guy: Would you like to judge for yourself?

With all those emojis he can imagine S's eyes brimming with overstimulated tears. Except he didn't know what S's eyes looked like... And the fact that he was imagining blue ones didn't have to mean anything.

He sucks in a breath through his teeth straining already with need to touch himself, but first the priority was the man in the other side of the phone.

So turned on, overwhelmed, and safe. S feels safe with him.

Guy: Never apologize for feeling good.

Guy: You don't have the message if words become too much. Or your hands become occupied...

Guy: Because when I reach low enough I kiss the tip of your cock, and take you into my mouth.

Guy: I can tell you need it. I'm going to give you what you need. Attention where you most crave it.

He hopes S doesn't see giving him head as any less dominant. Honestly the act can go either way, and especially in the topping sense when he's using it to drive a man wild.

Guy: Are you touching yourself?

David lets out a breath way too wound up himself to even find amusement in just how long the typing dots appear compared to the message that he receives. If he were to even get nothing he still would've taken that as a yes. But this was even better.

He thought the implied permission was enough for S to start, but it seems his faculties were past that nuance and he needed direct instruction. Or maybe he'd caught the vague permission and sat there torn between right and wrong, all worked up and not knowing what to do. David would help him. Show him how much thinking hurt and listening and obeying was ever the easier.

Guy: Good boy.

Guy: You can now.

David is palming himself through his shorts so it's only fair to let S touch himself too. Not like he was actually there to do it in place of him. Either he's lying or S has some god tier restraint to not have already. Most likely the latter since S didn't want to lie. Maybe next time he'd challenge him not to. Just squirm and writhe against whatever he can get.

Guy: You can feel it. Your hand is my mouth, dragging it out. As fast or as slow as you need. Just the way you like it.

Guy: It's all you can think of, all you can feel.

visionarypriest-stewart

When he’s given permission he lets out a loud whimper, despite himself. He clamps his mouth shut and bites his bottom lip to stop himself from going over the edge. He almost drops his phone as he closes his eyes and imagines his hand is David’s, no, Guys, mouth. He ignores the tears brimming over and sliding down the side of his face, it just feels so good.

S: Soo good. You feel so good

S: I’m…

He needs to reciprocate the imagery for Guy. Give him something too.

S: My whole body is flushed beneath your touch. Writhing, wanton. I gasp your name as you take me, and god, Guy you feel so good.

S: I’m at your mercy, as your hands hold my hips down. You’re so strong, so firm, but so gentle too

He gasps as he closes his eyes and moves his hand painfully slowly so he stays on the edge.

S: You’re the only thing on my mind, nothing else, just you and what you need from me

He places the phone down for a moment and his now free, treacherous other hand traces over his body as he pretends it’s the other man on the other end of the phone.

He’s close, but he won’t allow himself release unless he’s allowed.

S: My hands now gently reach down and pull your hair from your eyes, mine are looking at yours and there’s nothing but gratefulness there

He blushes, caught up in the moment.

S: I moan and whimper under your touches

visionarypreist-david

That does it. He slips his hand below his waistband and jacks himself off in earnest, it's too fucking real. Exactly what he needed tonight. He can see it, hear it, taste it, feel it, and it's amazing. It breaks all his cool composure.

"Oh Holy shit"

S at his mercy, and great ful for it. Wanting it. Willing under his hands and mouth and throughly enjoying himself. God it has been a while since he's been with somebody if just some words on a screen are enough to make him hard, make him cum.

Guy: S...

Guy: That D&D experience comes in handy. You're very vivid Im right there with you.

He expects a picture. S's body sheened with afterglow and covered messily in his own spend. Maybe they'd keep messaging back and forth a bit for pillow talk. What he doesn't expect is a garbled mess of misspelt words and letters.

Guy: Are you still holding out?

Well now he feels like kinda a jerk for getting so distracted, David had gotten himself off while holding S on the edge. Fuck that was hot.

Guy: Even with my cum all over you, you haven't let yourself do the same.

Guy: No wonder you need me, S. How would you even get off without me there.

He sees the typing dots.

Guy: Aw don't worry. I'm with you. I can think for you. I know what you need. I've got you. Hold on a little bit longer and it'll be worth it. I know you can do that. Be so good.

The typing stops.

Guy: Feel this? All the tension. All the discomfort. I want you to let it all go. Feel good now and relax. Let go.

visionarypriest-stewart

“He’s with me, he’s with me…”

Stewart repeats as he strokes himself. Sweat beads on his forehead and pools in the small of his back. He whimpers again and reads the messages.

S: your hand…is my…it’s tight…fits soo

Even he’s now starting to grind his ass into the sheets, imagining Guy is there as he also imagines his mouth on him. It’s almost too much.

“Oh god!”

He’s so close, the edge is razor thin but he does t let himself go just yet. Just a bit longer that’s all it needs. He didn’t realise how much he needed this until it was happening. This shared experience was like nothing he’d ever known.

S: so close…

S: Yes…I’ll be good…good for you

Stewart’s lower lip trembles, he can do this. He has to be good for guy because guy has been good to him. It’s just them, in the moment, a connection, he can allow himself to trust guy. It just feels right.

S: Pleeeaase?? 😭

With the ever sought after permission he lets himself go. Just as he’s told do. It feels like he’s floating, he’s hardly aware of what’s happening around him and how he’s accidentally pressed the camera button, his grip on the phone is so tight, he doesn’t realise he’s sent a video of his torso convulsing in silent pleasure, perhaps the of gasp and whimper, but no discernible words or indicators to who he was.

When it’s over, and when the stars behind his eyes die down he looks at his phone, he pants heavily, sweat covering his brow, causing his curls to stick to his forehead, body is glistening, his chest is rising and falling heavily, he’s in absolute bliss.

S: Duck I’m so sorry, genuine accident when I…you know..oh god….

S:*Fuck

He catches his breath.

S: Guy, that was the best experience I’ve ever had

He lies back on the bed, body still twitch every now and again from the aftershocks.

S: Thank you

visionarypreist-david

S has shared a video

How? He wonders. David has assumed S might be too far gone to type or take a photo, much less a video, but the thumbnail of it is enticing already.

He watches it on loop until the next message pops up explaining it was an accident. Hot damn what an accident. It almost gave D aid a new refractory period world record.

Guy: A happy accident some might call it

Guy: I'm glad. I enjoyed it too S. You're welcome, but I'm sure you're just flattering me with "best" experience.

It was just sexting. Maybe he meant best sexting, but they were strangers surely a roleplay with someone you knew longer would be better.

Guy: Don't forget to clean yourself up though. Want me to talk you through proper aftercare?

Guy: Clean your sheets. Clean yourself. Long bath, soak and enjoy it with a cup of tea. You deserve to relax. Have a snack. Then sleep cuddled up with me.

David got up. Stripped the sheets and took a shower, then throwing on a new set of sleep clothes he padded down to his flat's shared laundry.

He checked his phone to see S confirm he was taking care of himself.

Guy: Proof.

Guy: Pic of the tea you're having.

The tea pic contained S'a body hazy under soapy bath water in the background. In return he sent hin a photo of the public laundry machine with the caption.

Guy: So dirty 😏. The things you did to my sheets.

Later S said he was getting tired. They exchanged a final message that night.

Guy: Sweet dreams 😘 I'll see you again in mine.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart lays back in a haze, his eyes fluttered as he blinks and tries to read the messages.

“Glasses, idiot….”

He chuckles to himself with amusement and reaches to put them on. They must have fallen off the pig all the excitement.

He nods gently, then remembered Guy couldn’t actually see him.

S: Im being honest, feel so good.

He was going to just do what was needed and maybe have a shower but Guy made a compelling counterpoint. He hums softly to himself. Guy was so good, so kind. This was…was this normal? Or was Guy doing above and beyond? His exes never…no. He’s not thinking about them now, right now it’s just him and Guy…with a peppering of David.

S: Okay, I’ll do that.

Cuddling up? A smile broadens on Stewart’s face. If he would

And he does do as he’s asked, he strips the bedding and puts it in to be washed. He can’t help but feel a pang of guilt that Guy had to go out into the cold though.

Stewart runs himself a bubble bath and makes a chamomile tea with honey.

S: Tea acquired, in the bath now, wish you were here with me.

He blushes, eyes half lidded as he sends the proof. The bath is so relaxing though he could almost fall asleep. He replies, a mixture of being in a haze and tired.

S: 🫡 Dirty? I’m sorry…if I were there I could have cleaned it up for you…

In more ways than one. He gets out the bath and wraps himself in a fluffy towel. When he’s dry he puts some clean underwear on, and huddles up in the towel.

How does he ask if Guy is also spending time caring for himself too.

S: I hope you’re warm and cosy too?

He dries off and yawns, he smiles when he sees a picture of Guy also drinking a tea.

He puts his phone on charge and goes to get a T shirt. He stops when he sees David’s shirt. He tentatively reaches for it and puts it on. He then pulls a weighted blanket from the back of the chair and climbs into bed.

S: Night, Guy. I’ll be dreaming of you too, pretending you’re here and I’m in your arms. 🥰

He wraps himself up, using the blanket as though it were someone holding him close. He then puts the duvet over him and sighs deeply.

He’s content. He’s safe, and he soon drifts into the best sleep he’s had in years.

visionarypreist-david

His and S's connection didn't stop at amazing reciprocated phone sex. It actually continued that next morning and the next first with simple messages of well wishes then a whole conversation spawned off of surprise to actually getting a reply back admission of some genuine interest and finally full blown conversations.

Flirtations underlined it but mostly they were talking about their day, about their interests and hobbies, about D&D. Nothing in specifics just vague stuff. He didn't know what kind of campaign S was in and David hadn't really been lying when he told Greg there was too much lore to explain so he didn't bother boring S with the details of his own campaign, but they talked about the mechanics the strategy their favorite sorts of things to play out. And also let peeves.

They both had exes who DMd which came with their own sets of similar anecdotes to bind over. Time flew by as he talked to S over the app, growing closer, growing more in love. Genuinely. Some nights they sexted, others they exchanged sweet goodbyes. It was cute. It was fun. It was the most action he'd gotten in a while and from some guy on the other side of a screen.

That next D&D session Jay could tell something was up with his demeanor. Knew the telltale signs of constantly checking his phone. The smile he had while typing out messages.

You shouldn't be texting him while he's driving. Let me see what salacious message was so important, Davian.

He lightly chastised, Jay and David were just by coincidence in the shop early before the rest of the group had gotten there. But Stewart confirmed he'd be on time meaning he'd be driving now.

Jay leaned over David trying to get a better view of his phone and David pulled back drawing then closer in the keep away.

Hey no! It's private. And what do you mean driving,?

Despite this he knows Jay is just teasing and wouldn't actually read if he didn't want him to. That doesn't stop his ex from climbing over him to try and commit to sneaking a peak.

Private. Oh the scandal Davian. You're only making it more enticing.

It's not what you're-

Then Stewart enters the shop.

visionarypriest-stewart

Guy was nice, he was more than nice actually. The aftercare was new, but not unwanted. He hadn’t felt so good since that night. He wasn’t expecting it to carry on either, little ‘good mornings’ and ‘how are yous?’

It was interesting to find someone so similar and yet so different. Their shared interest for D&D was a main talking point. Stewart found Guy’s ex was also a DM and what were the chances? He didn’t want to bombard him too much with it all though, but he did mention Greg. Not so much about their relationship, but how he was his DM and his ex, in comparison. It was funny really, Guy reminded Stewart a lot of David.

Stewart smiles when he sends the text to say he’s about to start driving and he’ll catch up with Guy later. He parks a little further away, in a different car park to where Greg found his car, he arrived early and made sure to quickly grab his coffee before heading to the game.

He will be there on time.

He walks through the door to see Jay all over David. They move quickly, like they’d been caught doing something they should t have. Stewart is sure he heard the tail end of the conversation, how David was now talking to someone new.

He shouldn’t be jealous. It would be so incredibly stupid to be jealous, he was talking with Guy, and Guy was every Jay had described. But David…

He hardly knows him anyway? Why should he care?! They can be friends. It’s okay to be friends. And it was okay that David didn’t like him that way. He rights himself, he has Guy…for now. And that’s what counts.

He paints on a smile and raises an eyebrow.

“Should I come back later? I don’t want to interrupt?”

He grins, keeping it light as he takes his bag off and gets all of his things out ready for the game.

visionarypreist-david

Jay immediately yet calmly moved away as Stewart entered, in contrast to the startle it gave David.

No no you're fine. You actually saved me since Jay can't seem to keep to himself.

David shot a look over to his ex who sat with an undisturbed smile.

I have a healthy curiosity, Davian. Satisfaction resurrected the cat.

You are incorrigible.

And you're ignoring our friend Stewart here. I thought you ou were ignoring me to text him.

Jay puts out a hand in request for Stewart's phone.

Actually that gives me an idea. I can just figure out what you were so eager to discuss from the other side.

Jay I told you I wasn't texting Stewart. It has nothing to do with him you don't have to bother him about it.

Jay scoffed.

Well you don't send heart emojis to your painfully straight football teammates, Davian.

I can know other people!

You're talking to other men?! Isn't that why we broke up?!

Jay says playing up the dramatics as if the break wasn't years ago.

Just to clarify you were the one wanting to talk to other men. So, for the record....

He gestures to Stewart.

...I didn't cheat.

I haven't even set you up with anyone else recently.

Please stop doing that. And I actually met someone on my own this time. That's who I was texting okay.

Jay looked like he wanted to look smug about finally getting the information, but he instead glanced over at Stewart. Apologetic. His expression didn't abate when he turned back to David.

I wasn't trying to make you feel bad about it, Davian. Its not like you need my approval but I'm happy for you.

It's nothing major. It's new but-

David nodded then looked to Stewart.

Sorry. I- uh... Welcome back Stewart. Didn't mean to get caught up there.

Maybe it would have been better if Stewart did come back later so he wouldn't have had to hear all of that.

David pockets his phone. Much against his denial part of him wishes it were Stewart he could text like he's texting S. But that's not possible. Stewart gave no signs of interest, and he had that staller of a ex which definitely doesn't make a guy want to rush into a new relationship.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart watches the interaction, maybe he could make an excuse to go to the toilet or something. On the admittance of David having found someone, and that someone wasn’t Jay, nor was it him, he couldn’t help but feel jealous.

All this time he was holding back because he thought David was one sided monogamous with Jay, but that wasn’t the case at all. How could he be so naive? He thinks back, it’s not like David has texted him since last week, and yeah, he could have texted first too, but he was pretty sure he was the last one to text. And he didn’t want to bother David.

So that’s where he stood? Just friends. Officially just friends, that was fine. It was fine.

“Congrats!”

He smiles, it’s genuine despite his feelings. His feelings belonged to him and he couldn’t burden David with them. Not when it was one sided, that wouldn’t be fair on David, and coming from personal experience, he would t wish that on anyone.

He doesn’t mention Guy.

“I’m just gonna…I’ll be back before the game starts, too much coffee.”

He sees himself out as he makes his way to the toilets. When he gets there he checks to see if anyone is around before texting Guy.

Text to Guy: Hey, just got here, hope you’re having fun at your game. I’ll text when I get back. ❤️ x

Stewart takes the opportunity to use the facilities and heads back to the table after. By the time he gets there the others have arrived. He takes his place next to David and pockets his own phone.

“So…where were we?”

visionarypreist-david

In game. Yes let's focus on the game.

Jay flips through his notebook to last session.

You all made plans for how to get to the northern city, then from there continue onto the dragon's keep. The party has two horses, and will have to rotate who walks beside them so it won't be that speedy a travel.

Can we rent a cart?

You think we have cart money.

But we'll be able to travel faster and carry stuff. All the treasure were going to find in the dragons keep you know.

We aren't following the dragon for treasure.

There could still be some.

Wait does Rowan have a horse?

Gill looks to Stewart. The party at first only needed 2 horses, between 4 members two on each, but a third horse would mean nobody had to walk.

No! Because if Rowan has a horse then he can't share a horse with Davian!

Why are Rowan and I sharing a horse necessarily?

Ross gives him a look.

Because it would be cute.

They hate eachother!

Even better.

Wouldn't we have hashed out all the travel details already. We should hit the road were losing time and the dragon is getting further away.

Wait I can just wild shape into a horse!

There we go. That's the plan now let's travel. Roll that random encounters table.

But Ross brought up a food point who's sharing which horse?

It doesn't matter.

I'm riding Hemlock.

I jump on a horse and speed off after the dragon!

David looks to Stewart.

So I guess Rowan and Davain are sharing the last horse.

But he notices Stewart seems less engaged than he usually does. Not upset or angry but like his focus is elsewhere. Maybe he's not fully immersed in the game yet but there's this awkwardness between them.

David knows it's his fault. His phone may heavy in his pocket with the guilty unread message from S. He's has two people to apologize to later, but Stewart is the more present priority.

Especially when it even feels like he's sitting slightly further away.

visionarypriest-stewart

He really didn’t want to be absent. He enjoyed playing the game, he enjoyed the company. But tonight, his mind just wasn’t in it. He listened to the back forth and smiled in all the right places.

He could have suggested he’d be okay walking since he was an elf, but the table kept going. Something stung more when it was mentioned at Davian hated Rowan. Of course, it was to do with backstory and so on, and Stewart really shouldn’t take it to heart.

Nick was making a good point, the dragon was getting away. They were wasting time. The dragon could end up hurting more people.

When David addresses him, he turns to face him and nods.

“Yeah, they’ll be able to get to their next location more efficiently.”

He looks makes a note and looks back around. He doesn’t quite react in character yet.

“Rowan gets on the horse with Davian.”

A part of him wants to play a little and let loose and ask about what position Davian would like to take, but his heart just isn’t in it. But he’s not really up for those jokes right now.

He listens to the table and Jay, waiting for what happens next. If they get there straight away or if there’s an obstacle. He makes notes all the while.

visionarypreist-david

They rolled a random encounter than another and the fights honestly took longer than other should have. All because they were basically down a party member in terms of the turn economy.

Another miss?

Stewart your dice are cursed tonight.

They've rolled bad before too.

It must be terrible luck.

David watched as Stewart grew more and more disheartened with every failed roll. Things that weren't even close, and the one time he did manage a hit it was with almost the lowest possible damage.

Now it was obvious to everyone at the table Stewart wasn't his usual self. No quips, comments banter.The bad dice just drew attention to it. David knew from the start because he could barely get Stewart to even look at him. If he made this night awkward he definitely wasn't going to let some stupid buts of plastic make it unfun.

One second. You know what to do when it comes to my turn just hit the nearest enemy with a Great Axe.

With that David left the table. Immediately he picked the dice off the display shelf the ones that paired with his which Stewart pointed out before and took them to the register.

Just these.

He told Steph as the placed the dice down.

Oh are you sure you don't want a dice jail too?

She up sold, gesturing to the 3D printed cages with little slogans on them. "Dice Jail" "Sit there and think about your actions" "Bad bois" "Can be released in Nat 20 years".

He takes the "Bad bois" dice jail.

Heading back to the table David walks behind Stewart, leaning over him, placing the open pack of new dice on one side and the dice jail on the other. He scoops up his dice and lets them tumble into their new prison. Then goes back to his spot.

Let's see how these ones treat you.

visionarypriest-stewart

That feeling of when you’re trying to act happy but you’re not, was leaking through Stewart’s exterior. And the more things were going wrong the less he could hide how he was feeling. And the more he was feeling upset and disheartened, the more he thought he was ruining it for everyone.

‘I hope this little infatuation lasts, for both your sakes.’

He can hear Greg’s words ringing in his mind. Which each roll of the dice things were getting worse and Rowan was getting quite badly hit.

Stewart put on a brave face and kept trying. He hated these dice, these damn ugly dice that reminded him of Greg and how un-fun those games were. He’s sure he’s ruined this one too.

He hates himself for thinking it but maybe it would be best if his character got killed off. He could thank them for letting him play and leave with some sort of dignity.

‘I’ve really enjoyed myself, thank you for everything, I hope the rest of the campaign goes well, if you’re ever doing a one shot maybe hit me up….’

He’s planning it out in his head, making sure each word is perfect so no one’s upset. Then he can focus on Guy, well for as long as Guy tolerates him at least, and…

He doesn’t realise how much he’s in his head or spiralling until David gets up from the table. He bites his lower lip in worry at how despondent David is with his turn. He clears his throat and focuses on making notes instead, though he just ends up doodling while the others are taking their turns.

He’s about to pick up his own dice when he feels something, no, someone very close to him, leaving over him. He freezes and hears David incredibly close to his face.

Stewart watches, dumbfounded as David hans him the new dice and put his old ones in the jail. He turns a deep red. They’re the inversion of David’s dice. They were pretty he couldn’t deny that. But he couldn’t help but feel embarrassed.

All this time he’s had and he should have had the intuition to just get up and get different dice. He’s wondering if he owes David anything for it. He really must try harder to cheer up.

“Thank you.”

He waits for David to sit down and smiles gratefully at him.

“Let me know if I owe you anything.”

Because it’s only polite. It’s only fair. That’s what Greg would make him do.

He picks up the dice and rolls. It hits a Natural 20.

visionarypreist-david

He's about to explain that Stewart doesn't owe him anything. Wondering if asking him to just have a good time is being a little pushy. He doesn't want to be toxically positive, when the dice roll a Nat 20 to everyone's delighted shock and celebration.

David points to the roll.

That. That is all I ask for. Keep rolling good so Rowan stays in this campaign.

It's keep rolling well, Davian.

He's immediately embarrassed at his mistake. David tries to save face by turning it around.

I never heard you complain about my use of good before, Jay.

Grammar was the further thing from my mind in those situations.

David smirked. His voice dipped lower

You liked when I called you good.

Yes... But it's not me youre trying to seduce here.

So what if he wanted to put on a little show to gauge Stewart's reaction. Except when his attention was directed back to him Stewart just seemed uncomfortable. Fuck! It probably would have been better to roll with the grammar mistake.

Sorry I didn't mean to get off topic.

No you can both keep going.

Please!

Stewart what did you roll for damage?

And the game continued.

Stewart's good rolls obviously translated to skill in game. A skill David decided Davian would have to acknowledge if only to get Stewart to interact with him.

'Well done Spellcaster. I thought for sure you were a goner. You know magic users and elves always being the weak sort.'

He smiles when Stewart takes the bait and responds back as Rowan.

'Sure you live a long while but I've never seen one throw himself into real danger. Risking all those years'

You can tell though he tries to make the compliments sound sarcastic he's begrudgingly impressed by Rowan's now consistent show of ability.

visionarypriest-stewart

So before when David was teasing and flirting at the table he was single. And it was okay because Stewart knew where they all stood, or sat in this case. But now it felt weird to want to enjoy it, even secretly.

He pushes the thought down, just as he pushed down any thoughts when David was leaving over him him. He glances towards Jay. Jay has a point, he’s not trying to seduce anyone now. Maybe Jay is reminding him about his new lover.

That’s a point. Stewart hadn’t heard from Guy yet. He hopes everything is alright.

He lines up the dice and ignores how David is talking, no matter how much he wants to be called good by him. The grammar is important. And he doesn’t show how shocked he is that David actually wants him to stay. He looks to Jay when he’s addressed and rolls for damage.

“That would be a 17.”

He says softly and marks it down on his notebook. At least he wasn’t causing problems in the game anymore. They could move on swiftly and actually get somewhere without him holding things back.

When Davian addresses Rowan, he can’t simply ignore David now, not that he was trying to before, that would be rude. But he has to show some willing. Some want to actually be there otherwise what is the point apart from bringing the mood down.

‘Your praise is appreciated Davian. I’ve not fought a foe like that before, needed to get my bearings’

He reciprocates the smile as David continues. He’s careful not to linger on David’s handsome features for too long.

‘The risk, Davian, is warranted and one I’m willing to take if it means proving my worth. When the needs of the many out-way the needs of the few. I am happy to do what’s best for the party. I don’t want harm to befall anyone here.’ “Rowan now picks up his things and travels along with Davian and the party, he looks back to him.”

‘Davian, you have no reason to, but you can trust me. I don’t know what elf has scorned you, but we are not all the same. I hope to prove that to you. You have my word. Hopefully this will prove it.’ “Rowan takes a ring of protection from his finger and hands it to Davian.” ‘Here.’

visionarypreist-david

David blinks at Stewart. It was such a cool in character move. It takes him a minute to form the proper response.

Davian takes the ring. He stares at it before looking back up at Rowan.

What is this supposed to prove? I'm not going to be bribed into liking elves.

In character he would have no reason to recognize the ring as a magical ring of protection.

He does preemptively mark the item down in his inventory. To show Stewart his character isn't just going to chuck it away. But he lets his character voice take on a condescending tone.

Aye a ring of protection... The spellcaster thinks I need his magic to protect me. Well you'd have a better shot giving this to that elven king of yours that's who will need protecting if I ever find him.

Davian is going to put the ring in his pocket. You see he does take a final glance at the markings and notices the same on the pendant.

It gives no benefits if you don't wear it.

I know that, and Davain knows that. Let him keep Rowan guessing.

You're gonna hurt Rowan's feelings.

As long as I'm not hurting Stewart's feelings I'm okay with that.

He turns to Stewart.

You were fine with how that interaction went down right. If not we can undo it. I don't want to sound like one of those guys but it's you know trying to be in character.

He's relieved when Stewart seems okay with it.

They have matching jewelry now! Oh Tre magnific it's beautiful.

Jay is obstensivly talking about the characters but mentally hes forming a plan for their players.

Stewart, could you text me more details about this ring and pendant of Rowan's. I know we discussed and balanced them mechanically, but I want to know what they look like.

visionarypriest-stewart

‘I’m not trying to bribe you, Davian. I can’t change your mind about how you feel about me, but I know my own mind. I know who I am and where I stand. You asked me to prove myself back in the tavern, so that’s what I’m doing.’

Stewart raises an eyebrow in character.

‘The last thing I want is for that ring to fall into the hands of the king. I’ll cut it from his hand if it does.’

Stewart watches David with intrigue. It was interesting how his character really doubled down and wouldn’t give in to trusting Rowan. Who knows, maybe they’ll never get along.

“It’s okay, I think it works for Davian.”

Stewart confirms and writes it all down in the notes. He just wanted to give something back for David getting the dice. But at least Davian has kept it for now. He looks up when Jay addresses him.

“Yeah sure, I’ll text you now.”

He gets his phone out and starts to type, keeping it hidden from prying eyes.

Text to Jay:

Hey, so the ring and pendant compliment each other. The pendant is a deep blue precious stone cased within a silver moon and star, the ring is the same stone, but with a constellation a leading to one bright star, the same star that’s on the moon pendent.They’re not exactly the same but they’re part of a set.

He glances at his other messages and notices Guy still hasn’t returned his last text. He tries to push it from his mind, it would be unhealthy to expect him to be around his phone all the time. And he’s clearly a busy person, he can’t just expect Guy to only have time for him.what he does see is a message from Greg, his grip tightens on the phone a little.

Text from Greg:

No coffee today then? Not like you to break a routine.

Well, at least his plan of getting there earlier worked to some degree. He just wishes he’d been a few minutes later. He turns the screen off and places the phone back in his pocket so he can go back to focusing on the game.

visionarypreist-david

The game carries on. David's phone probably weighing as heavy in his own pocket as the ring is in his character's. Constantly on the mind.

He knows S probably understands. Probably isn't even thinking about it since they're both at their own D&D games. They wrap up the session at a stopping point once the time reserved for the table needs it's end.

Good game. I really like how Rowan and Davian are bouncing off eachother.

David tells Stewart.

They are quite the highlight. Davian I'm not going to send you the ring of protection stat block until he decides to put it on. As to not influence your choice.

Shit is it like cursed!? Rowan passed on a cursed object thats diabolical.

It almost makes him want to have the character wear it more. Rowan who seemed like he really wanted to gain his reluctant party members trust and loyalty ultimately using it as a way to take him out or pawn off some cursed item is a really cool plot beat.

He didn't think someone like Stewart would have something like that planned. But it was only speculation. Although it also made him realize there was so much about Stewart he didn't know.

Especially when he begins to pack up and leave immediately without hanging around to chat like previous weeks. David pulls himself out of the group conversation, as Nick, Ross and Gill discuss what they could've done better in one of the fights and meets Stewart by the door.

Where you headed in such a rush tonight? Hot date?

He jokes.

I'll walk you to your car.

For safety. Totally not an excuse to talk to him more. But he won't stick around or take a ride. Stewart does seem like he has somewhere else to be.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart nods.

“Yeah, it’s an interesting interaction. I like their dynamic.”

He listens as he quietly packs away his things. He doesn’t pipe up to defend Rowan, partly because of spoilers, partly because all he wants to do is leave.

He could quite easily get in to the debate of ‘why would Rowan wear continue wearing the pendant of the ring was cursed too?’ But his heart is just not in it.

He feels so guilty. He wishes maybe he did just let his dice end his character. He could have bowed out Gray and not ruin their game with his stupid mood. He looks at Greg’s dice in the jail, unsure weather to pick them up or not and take them with him. And of course the dice remind him of previous sessions where his mood ruined the game for the table. But that was mostly because of what Greg had said, not because of who Stewart was crushing on.

And that’s another thing, he’d better head off before Greg find out where he’s parked. He quickly checks his phone to see another text from Greg and none from Guy.

That was okay. It was okay, Guy was busy.

Text from Greg:

Not in town today? You really have broken the habit. First no coffee, now no car. Not like you Stewart.

“Thanks guys that was a good game, have a good night, see you later.”

He smiles politely and heads out of the store. What he wasn’t expecting was for David to follow him. Why the hell would he follow him? He’s got someone. Maybe he needs a lift? It would be mean of him not to offer David a lift just because he was jealous.

Maybe David didn’t like his attitude at the table, or did want the money for the dice? Stewart glances around, glad that Greg’s not there. He smiles at David despite himself. He just can’t help it.

“Sorry, got a bit of a headache.”

He lies.

“Thanks…did you want to grab a lift? If no bother, I’m heading that way anyway?”

He says as he walks along with David.

“I’m parked a little further away, just so you know.”

For obvious reasons, well to him. He doesn’t want to bump in to Greg. And he doesn’t want David to have to deal with Greg either.

“You played really well tonight. Sorry about my cursed dice.”

visionarypreist-david

I'm good to take the bus, but I just wanted to make sure you didn't have anyone waiting out here for you again.

He didn't want to impose especially since Stewart wasn't feeling well. The headache made sense for why he didn't feel up to post game banter.

David doesn't complain about the further walk. If anything he's torn between impressed by the forethought and saddened that Stewart needed to plan for that. Inconvenience himself for his own safety when he should be able to just be safe.

Misbehaving dice aren't your fault it's some bad luck.

He shrugs.

Besides you played good- well where it counted, despite the dice. Roleplay, story and character stuff, like I'm super invested in where this ring thing will lead.

Bad rolls shouldn't ruin Stewart's night. Though maybe picking up someone else's dice to physically drop them in a dice jail was a tad overboard. Buying them a whole new set may be borderline especially without asking. He's pointedly not going to bring it up, already satisfied when Stewart put the dice in his bag and didn't try to offer them back. Not giving him the chance to do so now.

I liked your line about the king. They can probably find common ground with that, especially since Rowan's probably the first elf he's met who isn't a royalist.

He smiles.

Rowan challenges everything he's thinking. I hope Davian plays well into Rowan's arc too. Don't want it to be all one sided.

Once they get to Stewart's car David opens the driver door for him and he says one final thing to Stewart before shutting it.

I'll see you next week Stewart. Looking forward to it. Hope your head gets better.

Only after taking a few steps away does his wording catch up to him and he hopes Stewart understands he meant the headache.

On the bus David finally takes out his phone. He's left S until he could give him his full attention.

Guy: My game's just ended. How was yours? x

visionarypriest-stewart

“Well the offer is still there if you change your mind.”

Stewart smiles slightly as he keeps in pace with David he walks beside him. The scraping of doubt trickles in to the back of his mind. Last week David practically jumped in his car, this week…but the kind gesture was appreciated. He was glad he might not have had to face Greg alone.

“Thank you, that’s really kind. Sorry about my rolls tonight.”

David mentions the dice and how it wasn’t his fault. Stewart relaxes a little bit it’s still on his mind. His hand bumps over where his phone is in his pocket, he wonders if Guy has even seen the message.

He nods as David talks about the game, he still stays a little quiet though and he hates himself for it. He could at least be polite to David. Especially as David has gone out of his way for him. He internally berates himself and forces himself not to be an ass.

“I like how Davian is distrustful. He has no reason to trust or even like this new person that’s tagged along into the party.”

He’s half talking about himself, half talking about Rowan.

“It’ll be interesting to see if they might get along. If they have anything in common, yeah I agree. You never know they might just be too different though. I liked how stubborn Davian is. He’s not changing himself for anyone and that’s a good thing.”

Stewart hums softly and nods.

“I don’t think it’s one sided. I’m still learning about the characters and the story. And Rowan, it was an ad hock character, there’s no real thought. Whine it, just quick mock up.”

When they get to the car Stewart visibly relaxes when there’s no one waiting for him. His shoulders drop and he’s holding in far less tension now. He getting to the car and before he can offer the lift again the door is closed. That’s a definite no then. Whoever this mystery man is, he must mean a lot to David.

“See you around, have a safe journey back.”

Before he can comment on how he hasn’t had any complaints, he stops himself David’s with someone now that would t be appropriate. He makes his way home.

When he gets in, he kicks off his shoes, throws his keys on the table and makes his way to his room, he changes into some more comfortable clothes and flops dramatically on to the bed. He takes a moment to pause and realises he actually does have a headache now. He takes some painkillers lays back down.

He can feel his eyes drifting close just as his phone buzzes. He freezes before daring to look at it. He’s relived once more to find that it’s not Greg, but Guy who has messaged him.

Text to Guy: Hey, I just got home too, it could have been better, how was your game? ❤️ x

#oc #stavid #oc rp #bookburn rp #d&d au

visionarypriest-stewart

Vampire AU 🩸

The sound of the door slamming behind him, caused him to jolt. He sighed deeply and leaned back against it, letting his head bump gently into it, before he pushed himself off to walk down the old stone steps into the early evening. He was grateful it was overcast.

He pulled his ripped shirt over his shoulders as he walked down the old streets. The air was cooling and it was darker by the second. This, he could work with.

As he walked further away from the terraced houses, he let his shoulders drop as he took in a large breath of the cool evening air. As much as he tried to put it out of his mind, the pangs of hunger grew stronger. He hadn’t realised how hungry he was until he heard his stomach gurgle, it was only then he realised how much he was hurting from the hunger.

A deep ache from within his belly. He groaned c he didn’t want to double back and go back into the town, nor did he want to just go home and ignore it.

“Damn it.”

He muttered aloud as he took a diversion home. He turned left and walked down a narrow path that lead him by a brook that filtered down into the forest.

Once under the canopy of the trees above, he took another breath. Using what little strength he had to concentrate on his surroundings, what he could hear, see or smell. He slowly made his was through the thick brush, he could hear it, getting louder, pumping faster. Something was frightened. Something, was injured.

He made his way closer to see a deer lying on the ground, still alive, but wounded. He looked around to see what had injured it, the coursing blood was too loud though, and his hunger was taking over.

He slowly made his way by the animal and crouched down. He put a hand on its neck and looked it in the eye.

“It’s alright.”

He let his voice lilt as he spoke.

“This won’t hurt you. It might help actually.”

He feels for a vein and goes to move in when he hears a loud snap of a branch behind him.

@visionarypreist-david

visionarypreist-david

David had checked the phase on his app that morning. Not that he needed to as after going your whole life you learn to expect it a few nights ahead of time. You don't even need to keep track. Recognize the signs in your own body and emotions. Felt it in his blood and in his bones. In the way his hair grew in thicker, in the way his temper got shorter, in the way he felt more and more energetic at night.

Golden hour, just as the sun was setting he prepares, same way every month, almost like it's just a solo camping trip. Empty backpack, blanket around his shoulders, small bush in the nearby woods to stash it all in. Luckily being on the outskirts so close to a "wolf infested" forest made the rent cheap.

He crouched down in the spot and began to remove his clothes so they wouldn't tear upon transformation. Even if his grip grew stronger, hi nails longer, his patience thinner. Even if he wanted to rip the damn things off and feel the wind through his fur. He forced himself to be careful. Folding them all in the bag and wrapping himself up loosely in the blanket.

Last few minutes as a human before fully turning was not a good time to be caught publicly indecent.

Then it was almost like his higher brain functions went to sleep in that blanket and what awoke was the purely animalistic side. Hungry for fresh meat, but moreso itching for the hunt, for the chase.

His hands and feet are paws. He's covered in a thick pelt of fur. Skelton forcing him down to all fours. Sense enhanced. Teeth sharper. Now a full out wolf.

Wolves were not made to hunt alone. With no pack to speak of David is always at a disadvantage. First he finds a deer and a fawn, but still has enough sense to ignore them. Best to let the fawn grow up with its parent, keep the deer population stable and healthy. Despite the monthly hunt and usual diet David as a human still cries watching Bambi.

He stalks further into the woods and luckily spots another deer. Leaping at it he's able to knock it to the ground, wounding it enough to keep it there, but before he can rip into it there's a sound of something or someone approaching. Maybe a whole other pack of wolves. He can't fight them off. He leaves the deer there stuck and scared and hides to see what approaches.

A human? No a vampire. His enhanced wolf senses pick up on the smell of undead and the feeling of enemy. Vampires and werewolves historically rarely get along. He watches the vampire go towards his prey trying to take it for himself and anger bubbles up inside. He can take on one pesky person.

He steps out, giving away his position with a poorly timed step onto a twig but leaves no hesitation before snarling at the intruder ready to attack. Despite being last words it would be obvious what he's trying to convey.

'MINE'

His prey. His kill. His hunt. Not something they can take away from him.

Clearly it takes the vampire off guard. Did he really think deer just lay perfectly in wait and injured. Running forwards when the undead man does not move away from what is his he misses the bite when they dodge, but ends up knocking the vampire to the ground. Scratching them on the arm with his claws. Baring his teeth in their face.

'LEAVE. MY DEER. MINE.'

Then suddenly they speak and it reaches past his wolf brain into the dormant human parts.

He can still have it... Just the blood... Vampire only wants the blood...

No need to fight. No need to waste the energy. But does he trust them.

Tentatively he backs away. Seeing what may happen. Knowing he can still rip the vampire's throat out if they're lying.

He does not sit, he stands still, and watches. True to their word the vampire only drinks the deer's blood. And when he goes in to eat finds they did not even take all of it. The meat still juicy and fresh enough.

Sometime while David is eating the vampire must run off. Strange. He thought they were supposed to have powers. Be stronger. Much harder to take down in a fight. Not open to sharing.

Something for his human brain to parce out in the morning.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart whirls around to come face to face with an abnormally large wolf. He looks around to see if there’s more and tries to back away. It snarls and snaps at him.

Of course it was too good to be true. How stupid was he to think that the animal to injure the deer in the first place wouldn’t still be around. Then the beast begins to run at him. The vampire moves and snaps back as a reaction, not something Stewart is proud of, right now though, his life is on the line. He dodges and swipes at the wolf while the wolf rounds back. He grows and snarls at him again.

With a thud, Stewart is knocked to the ground, a searing pain throbs on his arm, he looks down to see the wolf has scratched him.

He pushes back, only for the wolf to end up in his face.

“I don’t want to hurt you!”

He can feel he’s moved as far back as possible, nowhere to go but solid ground.

“It’s yours! You can still have it, I just need to feed…just the blood! I don’t need the meat!”

He pants heavily, the exhaustion catches up to him. He stays still for a moment as the wolf backs away from him.

He takes his moment to move to the animal and tries to calm it once more.

He feeds.

Carefully piercing a vein and taking in the warmth. He can feel it coursing through his body, being absorbed, through his stomach, his liver, his heart. For a moment, he truly feels alive again. He’s grateful the deer is a large one.

The scratch on his arm starts to sting as the blood slowly creeps towards it. He takes his fill, on what he needs to get through the rest of the night, no point draining it dry.

He wipes his mouth and backs away, watching the wolf carefully. When the wolf is distracted, Stewart silently turns into a small creature, as not to be detected.

The mouse scurries through the underbrush, and hides under some leaves as it watches the wolf consume.

He does not stay for long. He turns quickly and runs as fast as his little legs will take him. He leaps and turns back in to a human as he runs away. Away from the wolf, the town, the people, towards the outskirts, along an abandoned pathway to an old house. He lets himself in with a key and all but collapses onto a large armchair.

“Jesus you look like shit!”

He looks up as Anna walks over to him.

“I’ll call Esmeralda.”

Stewart nods, no point arguing. His face is starting to feel tender, must be bruised. He looks up as Esmeralda and Ybobb walk in.

“What happened? Your arm, your shirt! Your cheek!”

She fusses over him, Stewart sighs.

“People and vampires got handsy at the club, ripped my shirt,I didn’t like it, that’s not why I’m there. I’m there to serve food and drinks. Lord Rolland didn’t like my defiance.”

“And your arm?”

“A wolf.”

visionarypreist-david

When David wakes up at sunrise looking human but still adjusting to feeling it, one could almost convince themselves they camped out under the stars all night. Waking up cuddled under a blanket outside. Except you're also naked, wiping blood from your mouth and beard and picking venison from you teeth. Except David's face isn't as bloody as it usually is after chowing down on a hunt.

As he groggily rolls over and puts his clothes back on in the safety of the dim early morning. Feeling more like his human self with each piece David's mind plays back the snapshots it recalls from the previous full moon lit night.

The transformation, leaving the deer fawn, the other deer he injured, the vampire, backing down from killing him, sharing in his prey, eating, then running around for hours till he tired himself out.

Another benefit to not having a whole pack to feed is one catch is enough for the night.

But the vampire. He'd shared his hunt with a bloody vampire, and the undead man had kept to his word. What were his word exactly. Was it just a mutual understanding? Not that werewolves and vampires usually got along.

Too tired to bother and honestly fine with the outcome enough not to care David puts the blanket into the bag and walks back to his place. He's got the whole morning off to rest and recover until the afternoon for another dog walking client he picked up.

Usually, David tries not to give himself work around his transformation, but this guy was willing to pay double hisstandard rate if he could start immediately. Something about their old dog walker quitting without notice. It was too good to pass up even if he wondered what had the last one running for the hills. Maybe the dogs weren't easy, something a human would struggle with but a werewolf certainly wouldn't.

Waking up after a nap in time to catch the bus to the address. David can't help but whistle at the tall ornate building. The whole place was done up in old gothic Victorian style.

Hopefully it's not some vampire trap.

The man who opens the door doesn't fit the building's aesthetic at all. A frazzled young man who looks like he belongs behind the desk of a library. Some foggy bit in the back of David's mind thinks there's something familiar about him but he can't place it.

You Geoffrey Roland?

Certainly doesn't look like one. Doesn't look like someone who requested to be addressed as Lord Roland, which David had forgotten to do. But the dogs were the right breed. Twin setters and a shepherd, good hunting dogs. This man certainly didn't hunt.

Stewart.

Name still didn't ring a bell.

Well, Hey I'm David, I'm here to walk take the dogs on a walk.

Except the first dog Stewart hands him is the rambunctious ball of energy of a mini pincher in his arms. The dog that had been trying to nip at Stewart's fingers their whole interaction while the other large dogs sat behind him.

Oh, uh... He didn't say anything about this one?

He's about to hand the dog back when he notices a scratch on Stewart's arm, pretty fresh, probably barely started to heal and had been deep enough to draw blood to the surface. He can at least give him some hours away from the feisty little guy.

It's fine I can take him off your hands. Probably needs to run some energy out.

He jokes trying not to stare his arm. Half waiting for Stewart to mention where they might know eachother from. But maybe he's getting him mixed up with someone cause there's no recognition in his eyes.

Stewart gives him all the dogs names which lead to an argument between him and some unseen guy in the house about it. Who doesn't sound like the Lord Roland he talked to on the phone either.

visionarypriest-stewart

“A wolf? What the hell happened?”

Anna steps forward with Esmeralda to assess the exhausted vampire before them.

“I finished work. Went to hunt and found an injured deer. I thought it had fallen, or had a fight and lost…didn’t consider that it was already something’s prey, I was so hungry. I was about to bite when this huge wolf comes out of the shadows. Well it was obviously the wolf’s prey, and I’d pissed it off.”

He sighs and looks to the open fireplace, but a memory strikes him.

“But charmed it!”

Esmeralda raises an eyebrow with interest.

“You did?”

“Yes! I don’t know how exactly, but I told it I only wanted the blood and it could have the test and it backed away! If I could just remember how to do that all the time…”

“You will get there. I have faith in you.”

Stewart smiles a little, glad to finally be warm by the fire. The wolf crosses his mind as he quietly ponders.

“It could have easily torn me apart.”

He says with amusement.

“But it didn’t.”

Anna tilts her head.

“So?”

“Maybe I can finally start being like a real vampire and I won’t need…I won’t have to keep going back there.”

“You don’t have to…”

“I do, the deal is binding…but if I can break out of it, show them I don’t need them…I might finally be able to leave.”

Esmeralda sighs and places a gentle hand on Stewart’s shoulder.

“You know you have our support, right? Their ways are archaic, ancient, but it’s not how all of us are.”

“I know.”

Stewart sighs softly.

“We will also keep trying to work out a way to get you out of there.”

“If I didn’t have to work there it wouldn’t be half as bad.”

Esmeralda nods.

“Hmm, yes. Get some rest, you’re safe here Stewart.”

Ybobb steps forward.

“What about the wolf?”

“It didn’t follow me home.”

He nods and heads out of the room. Stewart continues to rest by the fire, almost in a meditative state as he watches the flames. He can hear Anna and Esmeralda talking in the hallway, wondering if he really charmed y wolf. He was sure he had.

As time passes he feels a little more himself again. He helps around the house before getting ready to head back to the town.

“Be wary, be safe. You’re always welcome here.”

“I will, Thank you Esme.”

She cups his cheek fondly and sends him off, almost like a mother sending her child off to school. She watches him with endearment as he walks down the narrow path back to the town. Back to them.

He arrives and knocks on the door, why he isn’t allowed a key is beyond him because…

“Must you disturb me?”

“I don’t have a key…the other door was locked.”

Stewart points to type other side of the large Victorian house.

“In. Now.”

Stewart follows the older gentleman to where his dogs are being kept.

“I need to head out. There is a dog walker arriving this afternoon. Make sure he does not fail like the last one.”

“Yes, of course. I’ll do that.”

“Good. And Greg will be here too.”

“Understood.”

“I have a list of jobs for you once the digs are gone.”

“Yes Geoffrey.”

The older vampire regards him for a moment.

“Well I’m glad you’re making up for your embarrassing display yesterday. Perhaps you can be taught.”

He goes over to his dogs and whispers as he gives his farewells to them. The dogs look at Stewart, if he didn’t know any better, it was a look of great disdain.

When Geoffrey leaves the sharp barking of a third dog gets louder as a Mini Pinscher rushes for Stewart’s ankles.

“Rex, not now.”

He desperately tries to get the dog in under control as the bell rings. He goes to the door with the feisty dog in his hand.

He almost laughs at the question.

“No, no I’m Stewart.”

Well now is as good a time as ever, he hands Rex to the man.

“David, nice to meet you, if you’d like to come this way.”

Stewart would have blushed if he could, he shouldn’t have just thrust Rex into David’s arms. When David puts the dog on the floor it goes for Stewart’s heels again.

“A run is only the start of what he needs.”

Stewart turns to say something when he notices David give the dog a look and it calms down.

“So, you’ve met Rex. His real name is Brian…Thank you for adding him on…This is Hades, and these two are Pluto and Orcus.”

He explains how the bigger dogs are well trained, possibly too well trained as he heads back to the door. He notices Greg walk around the corner.

“How many times have I told you, the person for their names doesn’t count. It’s Rex and you will call him that.”

“I was just letting David know incase…”

“Incase he loses them like the last one did?”

Stewart glances at David.

“I’m sure David is very skilled…you can see how calm Bri- Rex is.”

“As long as they all come back that’s all that matters.”

Stewart looks back to David.

“There’s cash upon your return with them.”

He smiles, though with a slight sigh after the argument.

“Is there anything you need from me?”

He watches as David expertly handles the dogs, even Hades is calm and stoic. He would be lying if he didn’t find it attractive how David had total control over them.

visionarypreist-david

There's no way he can walk the tiny dog properly if he's going to be hazard like this. David sets the dog on the ground but before it can run off and bite Stewart again he gives it a disapproving look and looms above the small animal showing it who's boss. Baring his teeth the slightest amount is all he needs to show the dog he's the alpha wolf in this situation. And it works.

Then he focuses back when Stewart addresses him.

Yeah, that's what I was told over the phone.

He already has the leads and the bags so he's all set. Part of him wants to reply to Stewart's question, offering anything he needs from him with a charming "Your number" but part of him tells him not to.

There's this sense of unease he feels. An instinct that tells him something's off about this place, something's off about Stewart. A gut feeling that he can't trust him, but why? Was it the sense that he was lying about the pay when he got back? Maybe, but this guy was probably an assistant of some kind meaning Geoffrey could afford it, so that wouldn't make sense.

No I think we're all set. You have a peaceful rest of your day, Stewart.

When he gets the sudden pull to challenge the small man to a fight he decides to leave and think it through on the walk. Keeping his tone normal as to not belay what he's thinking about.

It's just one of those random gut feelings I guess. He seemed nice enough.

David talks his thoughts aloud to the dogs. Not that his status as a werewolf gives him any ability to actually speak with dogs, it's more just to process his own feelings. And maybe he does feel a little bit like animals can understand him and he can understand them better than your average human.

The 3 large hunting dogs walk primly in front of him while Rex runs at his side. He glances over towards the small dog.

Although you didn't like him very much. What's up with that?

Dogs usually have a good read on people. They can sense who's good who's trustworthy. But Rex gives no indication simply happily running next to him the slightly fast walking pace for the large dogs needing a running stride in order for his tiny legs to keep up.

I know I'd be a hypocrite if I told you off for scratching him.

Given what he did to that vampire last night over the deer. Stewart had kind of a doe eyed look about him, small and innocent, which made it even stranger that David's wolf brain kept cataloguing him in the threat category.

He sat down on a nearby park bench with a sigh. Not realizing how all this walking would affect him the morning after transformation. Taking a minute to drink some water and the dogs sat down without being told.

Good boys.

David reached out a hand to pet Hades first and noticed how the large hunting dog unmistakably flinched away from his hand. Well shit.

His eyes grew wide as he looks at the dogs checking them over without touching them. Finding small injuries or patches of thinner fur, a marker of stress, he might have previously ignored as coming from hunting. The dogs were also clearly a bit thinner than their breed should be.

David did pick up Rex. He'd noticed the little odd step in his walk. One of his bad legs had probably healed poorly from a break. And now he could feel the dog's breathing. Slightly labored. Maybe a sign of internal bruising.

What happened?

That strange gut feeling made a hell of a lot more sense now.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart turns a round, a small smile adorns his lips. Greg looks over and raises a judgmental eyebrow.

“Really? The dog walker?”

“I have no idea what you’re inferring.”

“It’s written all over your face!”

“I just think he’s very good with animals, or many dog walkers have that skill.”

“You only think that because he stopped Rex from attacking you.”

‘Obviously.’

“Well now the dogs are gone I can get on with some work.”

“Yeah, work. That’s absolutely what you’re going to skulk off to do.”

Greg sneers with a grin, Stewart splutters.

“I would never do that!”

“Perhaps not on company time.”

“Oh and when is that for me exactly?”

“Exactly.”

“I’ve got a long list of jobs to do, starting with cleaning out the dog’s rooms, so if you’ll excuse me.”

He goes to walk away when Greg clicks his finger at him. An awful habit Stewart wishes he would t do. He turns on his heel to see Greg looking at him with amusement.

“Yes?”

“Do you think werewolves are real?”

Stewart furrows his brow. Where the hell did that come from?

“No, don’t be ridiculous. It’s just a myth.”

Greg seemingly ignores his answer.

“Did Hades do that then?”

He points to Stewart’s arm. Stewart shakes his head, a bout of confidence waves over him.

“No it was a wolf actually.”

He says proudly.

“Why are you proud of that?”

“Because…I was hunting last night, after finishing here, and there was a deer, I was going to feed from it when this huge wolf attacked me. I managed to get through to it, I used actual powers to get it to stop attacking me!”

Stewart couldn’t help but smile even in disbelief of himself.

“And it didn’t finish you off?”

“Nope.”

Greg stares at him, quietly seething.

“I see. Well, get to work then.”

Stewart turns and heads down the hall to where dogs rooms are. Not export and bleak or outside like some hunting breeds are kept in. No, the dogs had their own rooms in the old Victorian house. He started with Rex’s room first, tidying the toys he’d got him, cleaning up any spilled water and refreshing it too.

He filled the food bowl, making sure to put a little extra in as no one was looking, despite how the small beast dislikes him, he can’t help but feel sorry for it.

Next is the setter’s room. Pluto’s bed was a bit of a mess so he tidied that up first, then Orcus’ and the toys too. He filled the water, then the food, making sure they have extra then it was Hades room.

He stepped inside and looked around. Sighing as he tidied up. He straightened the bed, filled the food and water and picked up the toy which hades has kept since he was a pup. He put it in Hades’ bed and stepped out of the room.

The other jobs followed, cleaning the garden, picking up any waste or fallen leaves, he then heads back inside to get the largest room ready for the evening’s activities. He fills the drinks, cleans the glasses and tidies the bar.

By the time he’s almost finished his first set of jobs, Geoffrey comes home.

“You’ve actually done quite well, makes a change.”

Stewart nods and continues to work.

“And the hounds?”

“David has taken them out as per your request.”

Geoffrey frowns.

“And he hasn’t brought them back early?”

“No, but he should be due back shortly.”

Geoffrey looks around, as though he’s sniffing.

“Everything okay?”

Greg says as he walks by.

“Do you smell that?”

“Yep.”

“Smell what?”

Greg and Geoffrey exchange a look. Greg speaks up.

“It’s the dog walker. It’s his blood you can smell.”

Geoffrey looks at a confused street and back to Greg, having a silent conversation without Stewart’s involvement.

“Makes sense. New to the house. Will have to see how this pans out.”

Stewart shrugs and goes to continue his work. By the time David comes back, it’s Geoffrey who answers the door to him.

“All well I trust?”

He looks at the dogs as they sit obediently.

“One moment, Stewart!”

Stewart comes from the left of the building and up to the door, he smiles a little at David, but David’s expression has changed since earlier. He looks to the dogs instead.

“Hello boys.”

Hades growls lowly at him. Stewart looks a little nervous around them and looks at Geoffrey.

“Go to your rooms.”

The dogs walk in, past Stewart and off to their rooms.

“I’ve had them trained well. Now, thank you for your work. They’ve been well exercised, ready for a hunt later, I’m sure. Stewart, pay the man.”

Stewart nods and goes to get the money.

“£300 should suffice for 2 hours work I trust? It covers insurance and so on?”

He has no expression as he looks at David’s shocked face.

“Should you continue to do well, I shall continue to pay you just as handsomely.”

Stewart comes back and hands David the money.

“Arrange the next visit, Stewart. good day, David.”

He turns and smiles slyly at Greg as he passes him, making sure to keep his back to David as he leaves.

“We need to talk, Lord Roland.”

Greg says, a little too formally as the walk to the study.

Stewart tries not to show the concern, as Greg only calls him that on an important matter, he gets a diary.

“What day is good for you?”

visionarypreist-david

By the time David returned to the door with the dogs he made up his mind about confronting theirbowners. He couldn't let the abuse stand, but he did legally have to give the dogs back since he didn't actually have solid proof of any mistreatment.

He was prepared for Stewart to answer the door again. Finally understanding why he took him as a threat, his wolf side somehow knew this man hurt his dogs, somehow. Except instead of the small willowy peer the one who answered was Lord Rolland himself, though still shorter than David the man had quite the intimidating aura around him. Still David got the same sense to distrust him as he did from Stewart.

He doesn't answer the question verbally simply stares back, debating for a split second if he says something to the one directly in charge, and nods that all was well. Chance lost.

He doesn't school his features for Stewart, looking at him with pure unadulterated loathing. Who the hell would treat a pet like that. And Stewart was a safer target given he'd already made his first impression. Clearly Stewart is guilty when he can't even meet his eye.

I can tell.

David mutters when Geoffrey mentions them being well trained. Yeah that's not what he'd call training. But he's suddenly caught off guard, chocking on his next angry retort and cut off from his second chance to bring up his accusations concerns, by the amount. £300! That's more than was agreed upon. Way more.

He finally comes back to his own when the guilty basically bribe of a payment is in his hand. Cash. Straight up £300, cash in hand, no fuss. Too stunned to speak. And the fact that it's Stewart who hands him the money is extra salt in the wound.

Well this really ruins the fire behind his indignation. What do they say about biting the hand that feeds you.

David swallows instead of returning the food day well wishes but it didn't seem like Geoffrey even expected him to or wanted to talk with him more than strictly necessary. His focus again turns to Stewart. Who is acting as though nothing is amiss.

Depends on what time of the day you need me. I work every day but a full moon. For obvious reasons.

He vaguely gestures as if it should be obvious. He says the first bit casually matching Stewart's tone, then practically growls the next in warning.

So, I strongly suggest you treat your animals with more respect. No wonder you got scratched.

When Stewart looks at him like he doesn't know what he's talking about David explains.

They're malnourished, flinch away from contact, and Rex has a broken leg. These are signs of neglect at best and abuse at worst. If they're properly cared for they won't lash out.

How could someone treat a defenseless creature so cruelly?

visionarypriest-stewart

The manner of the man has changed. It doesn’t take supernatural powers to see that. The phantom feelings of palpitations rise as Stewart is sure whatever blood that was left in his system, drains from his face.

Did one of theme bite him? Did they go for another dog? What on earth could have happened?

“Okay, well how does…Noon on Tuesdays sound?”

He tries to stay polite, professional, just as he’d been trained taught.

Obvious reasons? Unfortunately they were not obvious to Stewart?

“Is that every full moon?”

He reaches for a diary and starts to write down any relevant information. When he’s not looking, the louder tone, that was practically a growl, causes him to startle. He prays to whatever is listening that he was able to hide it, that it was only internal.

‘Is that a threat? What did I do?!’

He steels himself. He can’t get in trouble with this man, he’s not the boss of him, he can’t tell him what to do!

He looks back at David, half frustrated half confused, he looks at his now bandaged arm.

Well now that makes sense. This guest just a hobbit, someone looking to make a quick earning. He was truly good at his job, passionate too. He genuinely cared, it seemed. He cared for the animals, could clearly see what was wrong.

But what business is it of his? They aren’t his animals, they’re Lord Rolland’s! Stewart was in half a mind to lash out and defend himself, he would t dare hurt these creatures, even if Rex hates him.

But Lord Roland, Geoffrey, paid him triple the amount. He really must want this man around. He treads carefully.

“I can assure you, I have no’ harmed this dogs.”

He cringes as his accent comes out.

“You are clearly very good at what you do, and my…”

‘Don’t say master , don’t say master…’

“…boss is very pleased with your work. Not to mention, the scratch on my arm is not from these animals. Though I’m grateful, I am not your concern.”

He wishes he could give the dog walker a piece of his mind. What sort of person only has the full moon off?! What is he, some sort of witch? A Druid maybe? Some sort of weirdo who worships the moon?

“So, next Tuesday?”

visionarypreist-david

No defense, no rebuttal, no explanation, just a short refusal to acknowledge any of the harm. That's not what he expected at all. And then to get him off the topic he gets reverse compliment sandwiched and the work, the fact that he's only hired to walk the dogs not worry about them, thrown back in his face.

Next Tuesday.

David nods.

And I want to see that they've been better taken care of.

He's done all he can regarding the abuse issue short of attacking Stewart since the law probably won't help. There's still an implicit threat in his request to see that the dogs be treated better. Even if he could build a solid case the caliber of lawyer he could afford would never beat those Geoffrey Rolland could get. He glances down at the envelope, before stuffing it in his pocket.

When the full moon is on a Tuesday would you prefer the day before or after? Because yeah it's every full moon.

He mentions given the next one in the cycle actually is a Tuesday weeks away. Shrugging to show he's fine either way. For £300 he'll come in on a usual rest day. For the sake of checking in on the dogs welfare he doesn't want to miss a week.

Also what kind of a dumb question is that of course it's every full moon.

David doesn't hide the fact he's a werewolf. It'd be basically impossible when sometimes people would approach him at the gym or in bars and correctly clock his status. People on the street probably notice but are too nice to comment to his face. But drunk people and gym bros have no such qualms. He's proud of who he is. And maybe if he's open about it he'll meet some people who want to form a pack.

See you next week, Stewart.

He's pretty sure by the time he leaves the stick up assistant has already forgotten his name. Much less to pass onto the boss his concerns about the dogs welfare. David sighs. He can already feel the energy leave him as the angry adrenaline fizzles out. He naps on the bus, so deeply he almost misses his stop, and it's by some miracle he wasn't robbed of £300.

He checks his phone to see a missed call from his old ex Jay and a few texts.

Jay: Davian, what are you doing out the day after a full moon? Are you alright?!

Jay: Don't play coy with me I saw you walking around the neighborhood.

Jay: If you ever wanted to catch up over a drink you have an open invitation.

David: "A drink" is not as enticing an offer to me a your usual company finds it.

Jay: You know what I mean, Davian! Coffee, tea, wine. I know this amazing paranormal friendly night club

Was he really going to consider it? Maybe post transformation was making him more sentimental. Or dealing with rich assholes made him want to see the only rich non asshole he knew.

David: I'll think about it.

Jay: Tre Bien! That's all I ask.

Yep Jay could definitely smell the loneliness on him. Always could if that fact he kept sending hot singles his way with way too many intimate details already was any indication.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart writes it in the diary and nods.

‘If only you knew.’

Pride was his downfall. At least that’s what he tells himself. He can’t let people know the situation he’s in. How he got in that predicament in the first place. Let alone a stranger.

“I will mention it with Lord Rolland.”

Feeling sorry for himself won’t help anyway. Best to just get on with it. Work hard, maybe keep progressing. After all, he surprised himself last night maybe there are other powers lying dormant he doesn’t know about? Then he can finally be free, be rid of this place and them.

At least there is some refuge with Anna, Esmeralda and Ybobb. But he can’t let himself be a burden to them too. He’ll work this out, he just has to keep his head down and work hard.

“We can discuss that closer to the time if you like. I’m sure we can come to an arrangement that suits us both.”

Well not him specifically, more David and the dogs. He’s just the go between. It’s his job. Nothing more. Why does he care so much that this guy, this David person, seems to have a problem with him.

“David.”

Stewart says with a nod as the tall man turns to leave. He lingers for a moment and quietly closes the door just as David turns to look back.

He was confused. Earlier, though the meeting was short, it was mostly polite, and now he’s blaming Stewart for the dog’s injuries.

“So he’s coming back then?”

Stewart flinches, how long had Geoffrey been standing there?

“Yes.”

“Good. I’m pleased with his work.”

Stewart swallows the nervous lump in his throat and clears it before speaking.

“He has a keen eye for the welfare of the dogs.”

Geoffrey doesn’t move, he just stares at Stewart, letting him stew and unravel by his own doing.

“I think it would be in our best interests if perhaps we feed them a little more.”

He keeps staring.

“A-and perhaps Rex could get a cast for his leg.”

“And who is paying for this?”

“Well, you would be, s-sir.”

A smile creeps in the corner of Geoffrey’s mouth, he otherwise keeps his expression neutral.

“Not to mention, if the dogs have more food they would be stronger, be able to work harder for you.”

Geoffrey steps forward. Stewart braces.

“Finally you’ve had a good idea.”

It takes Stewart crate to for not to show his shock. Even if he does hear Greg laugh in the distance.

“Change the food and add meat to their kibble. Also fresh bones for their teeth to keep them strong.”

“Of course, yes I will do that.”

“I want to keep this new dog walker around. He may be of use to me.”

Stewart furrows his brow.

“Noted.”

“So do try and get along won’t you.”

“Yes Geoffrey.”

“Get to it then, you’ve just doubled your workload and there will be patrons here before you know it. And do clean yourself up before they get here.”

Stewart nods and whisks himself away to get to work. He ignores the hunger pangs.

visionarypreist-david

Jay was sat at a large curved couch, in the center, his head tipped back in laughter. He had a man on each side, one currently slowly the blood drinking from his neck, another just finishing up. Several more patrons were scattered across the couch or in front of it, one even leaning over the back, as he told his story.Jay swirled his wine and let put another laugh.

Barely one glass an im already...

He trails off.

I think we're gonna leave you the rest of your blood Jay.

Nicholas I'm fine.

Keep telling the story.

Someone from the crowd pleaded. And Jay nodded.

I saw him today, Davian, the one I've been telling you about-

Only for years.

Another scoffed, but it was all in good fun.

Oui but it reminded me have I ever told you the best time to have sex with a werewolf is the day before a full moon.

Why?

The energy, the stamina, the animalistic surges of high genes emotion. Mmmm it's unbelievable.

When he opens his eyes Jay notices Stewart not too far off, starting to fill drinks of one of the patrons on the far side of the couch.

Mon souris ami!... Sorry I'm too drunk to stop the French be a good boy and don't tell Geoffrey.

That made the people around him laugh.

Speaking of your sire Stewart I'm pretty sure they were his dogs... Yes they were now that I-

He says unaware Stewart doesn't know the context.

It was so nice of you to hire my Davian! I didn't know he was in the dog walking business, he never seemed instrested in any of the collars or leashes I had.

Once his glass is refilled Jay sets it down, sitting up more to have a better talk with Stewart.

Davian.... David, you probably know him as David. And of course I don't mean to collar him that would be cruel to suggest given his status and honestly I'm sure it was quite clear the role he prefers to take in bed.

He's caught off guard when the usual nice and timid blushing Stewart suddenly looks even more confused and also upset at David's mention.

visionarypriest-stewart

By the time the jobs were finished, it left little time for Stewart to get ready for the evening’s patrons. He managed to get a quick shower and change of clothes, practically a uniform provided by Geoffrey. It was expensive, it was smart, it was a statement. Monogrammed too, it was clear to whom Stewart belonged.

Patrons would still get a little too drunk though, go a little too far, request things of Stewart that were not in his remit. Essentially, he was a bartender, a server. There to keep them happy, keep them paying.

He quietly listens to Jay’s stories. Something he will often do as he works. Listening to Jay often makes him forget he’s actually working half the time. Even if Jay is a little out of it as he recounts his tales.

He looks up as he’s addressed, smiling softly. He looks around, said sire is very much occupied in a room at the back of the hall. At least he can have a little respite.

And this story, though it seems from a while ago, was new to Stewart. He missed half of it, caught the latter. Whoever this person was seemed to be on top form according to the story. And Jay was not one to lie.

“I won’t tell him, I promise.”

If it’s something Stewart can do it’s keep a secret and a promise.

“Lord Rolland hired a new dog walker today, yes. You’re saying it might have been your ex?”

He doesn’t mean to look confused or act out of his station, but he feels well enough to relax a little around Jay. But he doesn’t recognise the name.

“Oh. David.”

He can’t help but look a little saddened by the mention. Their first meeting was quite good, the second…well he’s sure the man hates him now. Shame. What with him looking so handsome.

He continues to file drinks. The mention of David and bedroom activities makes his stomach flip.

“If I may be honest…I don’t think we got off to a good start.”

He looks around, Greg was nowhere to be seen and Lord Rolland was still preoccupied.

“Well, it started off alright. But then he took them for a walk and…”

The others aren’t listening, he continues.

“…he came back, and…they, he noticed the dogs weren’t in the best health…I think he thinks I…he wasn’t happy let’s put it that way.”

He sighs despite himself and looks at Jay.

“I’m glad that you had a more positive experience with him though.”

He looks up as someone calls for him. He says he’ll be back as he goes to attend to them. He gets them what they need and heads back over to Jay with fresh drinks. He rushes as not to take too long, a part of him does want to learn more, even if rushing around makes him dizzy.

“He’s coming back next Tuesday. It’s odd the only day he can’t do is a full moon.”

He watches as Jay laughs.

“I…”

The issue with being sired by a man like Geoffrey is he keeps his cards close to his chest. He keeps the knowledge close to his chest also. Drip feeds it when he deems necessary. The knowledge that Stewart has on even his own kind is limited. Let alone other supernatural beings.

“He’s…they’re real? So the war was real? Shit that’s why I feel off about him? Oh fuck, that’s why he hates me!”

He hears a voice in his head, scolding him for speaking out of turn.

“I’ll try and start fresh. Make amends.”

visionarypreist-david

Jay pouts. Surely David would get along with someone so much his type. Vampirism aside what with werewolves and vampires having a natural hatred for eachother. Once they know each other more it does fade when a clear threat isn't posed.

What could have happened?

He asks exasperated, eager to know, to maybe set it right with his knowledge of both of them. Already deciding Stewart was his next attempt to set someone up with his ex.

He thinks over what to say while Stewart is away but all of that goes out the window when he realizes he's missing the most obvious detail.

What's so odd about a werewolf needing to take the full moon to himself?!

He laughs. Stewart panics. It's adorable. If David were here to see this her certainly find it so.

Oh he's real all right. Part human, part wolf. All man.

He says with all the lewd meaning. Then turns genuine.

Davian is very sweet though. Gentle. As you can tell he loves dogs far beyond their kinship. He's protective... Mmm you'd get along nicely old sport.

But that can't converse much longer as Stewart's work pulls him away too much, and Jay gets distracted by other patrons.

Next Tuesday rolls round and David is in a slightly better mood all things considering. He feels more like his human self and not a worn out hodgepodge trying to make it through the day after spending all night as a wolf.

He kept a closer eye on all the dogs he walked last week, even from his regular clients, for any signs of mistreatment. Maybe he was overreacting, but it didn't feel that way. Not when Mrs. Wimblegates corgis happily let him pet them, not when he mostly saw dogs who were slightly overweight instead of under, not when he got stories about how the dogs acted on vet visits.

He waits on the doorstep of Lord Rollands estate, probably looking very out place in his usual athletic wear and sleeveless top with the moon phases on it. Did he pick this specifically to spite Stewart? No comment.

Plus he'll do more than wear a petty reminder of the guy asking a lycanthrope about his moon phase peculiarity if the dogs aren't in top form. Just in cas he even brought treats, and practiced ways to ask about the dogs allergies.

He's waiting there for a while, feeling like he's being watched when finally the door is answered.

visionarypriest-stewart

The night was long, and it didn’t help that he hadn’t rested much from the previous one. At least this time patrons kept their hands off of him.

He saw the last few guests out of the building and closed the door. He makes his way through the building and towards his room to get changed. Perhaps he might be able to go and hunt something, he was starting to feel a little drained.

“Where are you going?”

Stewart looks up to see Geoffrey standing in the entrance hall.

“I was thinking…”

“There’s your first mistake.”

“I…I was hoping to perhaps go out and hunt, get something to eat.”

“Were you planning on coming back here?”

Stewart doesn’t answer straight away.

“Your silence ins damning.”

“I was going to go and see Esmeralda.”

“And what is at their abode that you can’t get here?”

“Nothing in particular, I just haven’t seen them for a while.”

“Did either of them sire you?”

“No.”

“No what?!”

“No, sir.”

“Then what loyalty do you have to them?”

Stewart shuffles on his feet and looks down briefly before looking back at Geoffrey.

“They’re…my friends.”

The older man scoffs and folds his arms.

“You’re to stay here tonight.”

Stewart clamps his lips shut, but can’t help but look sorry for himself.

“Can I at least hunt first?”

“You have an hour. If you’re not back within said hour, I’ll send the dogs after you.”

Stewart nods and rushes out of the door.

“Keep an eye on him.”

Greg emerges from the shadows and heads out after him, turning into a bat as he reaches the threshold.

Stewart does as he’s told, he heads out into the night and into the forest. He stops by a steam and listens for anything close by. He’s able to find a large rabbit and hunt it down. It’s not quite enough to curb his thirst though. Finds a nearby field, and notices a sheep that’s got tangled in some barked wire. It was already breathing heavily, weak. He’d be doing it a service.

When he kneels down next to it, he looks it in the eyes. Quietly willing it to stay calm.

“It’s alright. It won’t hurt.”

Once the sheep has calmed he drinks, making sure it feels no pain. Once he’s done, he lays some of the wire loosely over the animal to make it look like it was the wire that caused the death.

He gets up and looks around, has it been an hour yet? No sign of the dogs. He debates running, but he knows he only get sniffed out. Reluctantly, he returns to the estate.

The week goes by and he’s glad he’s managed to get his fill as his workload has indeed increased. He took Rex to the vet, managed to get his back leg in a cast, but that didn’t seem to stop his energy.

He bought extra food for the dogs, top quality meat and raw bones to make sure they wouldn’t splinter as they were chewed.

He was just disheartened he couldn’t go and see his friends.

As the days flew by, he felt like he hadn’t stopped.

Greg was pacing Geoffrey’s office when Rex came up to greet him, alarmist tripping him over.

“You stupid beast!”

He whirls around angrily, baring his teeth, only to have his arm caught by Geoffrey.

“We need these dogs in good health from now on, not to mention, the hounds are certainly stronger, their teeth sharper from eating the bones, this will be in our favour.”

“He needs to learn that he can’t just trip people up.”

“Who should be looking after him?”

Greg pauses and smiles.

“Good point.”

He leaves the office and Rex quietly follows behind him. By the time he finds Stewart in the kitchen, he’s practically seething. Stewart looks up to see a very unhappy Greg.

“What’s-…”

The next thing he knows he’s been knocked to the ground. He can hear Greg shouting at him, betraying him, as he takes his anger out on Stewart. It seems to last forever. When it’s finally over, Stewart uncurls himself to see Rex hiding under the table, watching him.

The days continue like this until he wakes up on Tuesday morning on a cold stone floor. He can’t remember how he got there, but he feels awful. He hauls himself up and gets ready for the day. When was the last time he fed?

He looks at the time to see it’s almost noon. He rushes, though it makes him feel dizzy, to get ready. He gathers the dogs together and heads to the door, head grateful that the large man before him is blocking some of the sun.

There’s another issue though, the dogs, he can just about ignore as far as his hunger is concerned. This bodes a completely different challenge, he can practically hear the blood pumping through David’s veins. Best make this quick.

“Afternoon.”

visionarypreist-david

The air was different between them now. Not the friendliness of last week, but that made sense given David had accused Stewart of abusing the dogs before he left. Speaking of the dogs some of the awkwardness is broken, and David is saved from just flatly replying afternoon when Rex bounds out of the house. The small ball of energy runs 3 laps around his feet circling them before stopping in front of him to yip up at him trying to get David's attention.

What is it little guy?

He crouched down to Rex's level, and notices the little red cast on his leg. The way he proudly scampers around with an unrestrained walk and comfortable stance. David smiles laughing at his little antics.

I see someone liked their trip to the vet. Can't relate doctors scare the hell out of me.

David picks Rex up as he stands again, and the dog calms enough to just lay in his arm.

See, he's a lot happier when he's been cared for. He's not angry or lashing out. Glad you actually took my advice.

Then he noticed the hounds sitting beside Stewart, when the leashes are handed over to him he can tell the larger dogs have been eating well. Now he's almost jealous about how well, his sensitive werewolf nose picks up on how they've been getting fresh meat every day. The good stuff.

He reaches out to pet the dogs and they accept them. This reaction he actually expected would take a while to unlearn. Even looking forward to helping a bit by showing the dogs not all touch meant pain.

Worries finally assuaged he focuses fully back on Stewart. His bright blue eyes somehow look duller, exhausted, worn down. Must be something else properly caring the dogs can't have taken that much out of him. Since Stewart's not being the biggest conversationalist there's no.way to subtly ask so he just explains. If it pisses Stewart off he just won't give them to the dogs.

Hey, so, let me know if this is okay but I brought some...

He looks down at the dogs.

T-R-E-A-T-S

Good the dogs can't spell.

For them. Personal favorites of mine, I know they'll like them. They don't happen to have any allergies though?

Okay yeah now Stewart's being short with him on purpose. He clearly got the household to change their behavior around the dogs, is it so much to realize David pointing it out was justified then. Not hold it against him.

Fine I get where I'm not wanted. I'll keep them out a bit longer to make up for it sorry I was wasting your time.

He hooks Rex's leash on and gently sets him down careful of the leg. Leaving for the walk. Letting Stewart be in whatever funk he wants to be in.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart keeps his lips tight and a firm grip on the door frame as he listens to David. He seems to be appeased by the dog’s new health. At least that was a good sign.

He raises an eyebrow at David’s admission of being afraid of the doctor. Was there a doctor who could help him? Not just for a food source, but he was so sore, and tired. He watches as Rex bounds around David’s feet. It was admittedly adorable.

Speaking of lashing out, Stewart does everything in his power not to snap back. It’s not like he wasn’t used to be on the other end of Geoffrey’s and Greg’s wrath. It had just become more frequent in the last week. At least the dogs are fine now.

“Well maybe last week…”

He hears a voice in his head.

‘Don’t you dare!’

“Maybe last week they were just unsure as you were new.”

There’s a clear message on the front of David’s shirt, and even if Jay did say David was nice, right now he wasn’t too sure. There was still disdain there, he could feel it.

He steps forwards to hand the leads to David and inhales deeply. Why is it so damn hot? He quickly falls back by the doorframe.

It feels like his head is swimming, all he can hear is the blood pumping through veins, not just the dogs but David too. And David was strong, healthy…tasty. No. No he can’t let himself do that.

‘He eats dogs treats?!’

“It should be fine.”

Why is he still talking! Why would he want to talk to Stewart if he thought he hurt the dogs in the first place. Why is the ground spinning?

‘Need to feed…just a bite, they can get another dog walker, just a small…no..fuck!’

“None that I’m aware of.”

‘Don’t snap, don’t make a bit y reply, just let him go. It’s not neglect if you don’t know their allergies.’

The heartbeat is getting faster, louder. He’s so close, perhaps if Stewart is fast he can knock him off guard. But he can’t, no that wouldn’t be right. He’s Jays friend, and Jay is nice to him…

He watches as David turns to leave. It could be so easy. He stops himself from running down the steps and closes the door a little too quickly.

“What the hell is wrong with you?”

“Need….to….need to feed…please!”

Stewart all but collapses against the door and looks up at Geoffrey. His eyes are bloodshot now, his skin a deathly grey. Red pricks at the corner of his eyes and trickles down his cheek.

“Please!”

Geoffrey looks at Greg and nods.

Greg hold up a rat.

“If you want it, you have to catch it.”

He laughs are he watches street desperately chase it down. The rat is dead in seconds, drained dry.

“Clean yourself up.”

visionarypreist-david

You don't realize how much you wish you could actually talk to animals then when you wish they'd give you information. That when David asked the dogs "What the hell is his problem?" That they'd hopefully answer back.

But Stewart's problem was not his problem. The man said it himself he didn't want any of his concern.

When Pluto deftly steps around a puddle or Hades is the only one not to chase after a pigeon he gives the dog a treat for their behavior. And a pat on the head but unlike the biscuits they seem to accept touch with an almost depan, less like they actually associate it positively and more like they stopped being able to react at all.

You are some strange dogs.

Maybe hunting dogs are different than pets. Rex who apparently can also respond to Brian which is funny, loves to be held. Loves to run in loops or double back, instead of perfectly keeping to the path.

Guess you didn't take to training as much.

He gives Rex of treat when the dog nuzzles up into his petting, actually enjoying it. Not trying to bite or scratch him like he does to Stewart.

As they continue on the walk, going a bit further away then last time like he told Stewart he would do, the oath got a bit thinner. Luckily the dogs were good about moving to one side, and avoided it, but as David walks past the intricately designed iron fence a bit of protruding metal make a small cut on his leg.

Ahhh! Shit!

It's not only the sharp pain from the cut but the burn of the metal. He looks down to see the cut is bleeding, not a lot but enough.

He wipes away the blood with his hand and turns back to take the dogs back to the manor. No time to delay or he'll be even later than he told them. Running the last portion he makes it to the door and knocks with the hand not smeared in blood.

David doesn't miss how Stewart's eyes immediately go to his hand, then somehow immediately find the small cut on his leg.

Don't worry they're fine. Stray piece of metal in the fence, but the dogs were nowhere near it.

He explains as Stewart still doesn't look him in the eye.

I'll patch up when I get home.

It's on him for not bringing bandages, and he's not going to ask Stewart for anything. People can also be weird about letting him into their house, so it's not like he's going to ask to even wash his hand.

Suddenly he feels something at his leg, something wet near the cut. Rex is currently licking up the blood.

No. Down boy.

David pulls back, reaches down and picks Rex up.

Where did you learn something like that? It's so unsanitary! You don't know where I've been.

Rex was probably just trying to clean him or treat the open wound the best he could. He hands Rex to Stewart, trading him for the envelope of money, but as their hands brush a bit of his blood gets on Stewart too.

Fuck sorry this is all just a mess.

visionarypriest-stewart

It was enough, just enough a mere morsel to get him through the next few hours, then maybe he’d be allowed some more, or he might be able to go away for a bit and sort himself out.

He goes upstairs and gets changed. Washes the blood from his hands and sits in his room for a while. He’s not sure how long he can get away with being idle until David and the dogs come back. He gets up and heads to do some chores, being careful not to be too loud or disruptive.

He feels a bitter feeling in the back of his throat. And his eyes sting a little. It’s been a long time since he’d cried. He wasn’t going to let himself now. It would be a waste of energy.

By the time David he hesitates as he opens the door. He didn’t mean to be rude earlier, but he also didn’t want to just attack David then and there. He opens the door and instantly his eyes train on David’s hand.

Fuck.

Then to his leg.

Fuck!!!

He takes a deep breath, not that it helps, but he can’t let himself be tempted by the fresh blood.

“Are you alright?”

Yes, that’s the correct thing. Perhaps he should offer him inside to clean up, but Greg and Geoffrey are in there. When the club room is open, that’s one thing, this is entirely different. It wouldn’t be safe.

“You should bandage that.”

He echoes David’s words from the previous week. He tries not to stare at it.

His eyes widen when he sees what Rex is doing. He puts a hand over his mouth in embarrassment. At least it’s learned behaviour from when people are kept alive. Stewart grimaces.

“Rex…no.”

He tried not to look panicked as the blood is then smeared on to him. He holds Rex perfectly, carefully, but Rex just turns and snaps at Stewart’s fingers. Stewart tries not to drop him.

“Hey come on…”

Stewart watches as the bigger dogs obediently go inside. Rex still tries to bite him, but he stops when he intently starts to sniff him, he picks up a scent. Stewart presumes it’s the rat.

Shit, if Rex can smell it, can David? Surely not.

“Please go in.”

He sets Rex down and urges him inside, the small dog opts to chew his trouser leg instead. Stewart, accepts defeat. He loos back up at David, keeping his bow bloodied hand behind his back. He takes the leap.

“I’m sorry for my behaviour earlier. I hadn’t eaten for a while, and I’m not me when I’m hungry.”

He looks at David’s leg.

“I didn’t mean to be short with you, I was just concentrating, didn’t want to lose control.”

Rex makes contact with his leg.

“Ow, hey!”

He looks back at David.

“Here’s your money. Lord Rolland has put a little extra in for the trouble earlier.”

He hands over the envelope with his non bloodied hand.

“See you next Tuesday then?”

It was going well, he hadn’t even been tempted to go for David’s leg. But that seemed to upset him until Stewart realised what he’d said. It all happened so glad the flinched back, eyes wide. How he wished he was more full…more with it.

“No, no! That’s not what I meant. Literally, next Tuesday at noon, literally.”

He scans David hoping he’d made amends, if only he knew the David that Jay knew. The version that might hold him close…

It was awkward by David finally left. Stewart rushed to get to a sink but he could hear Greg and Geoffrey coming. He got most of it off, but there wasn’t enough time. He didn’t have a choice but to quickly lick the blood from his hand.

It wasn’t like he’s taken it, or sank his teeth into David…it was for convenience.

It was like nothing he’d ever tasted before.

visionarypreist-david

While Stewart struggles with Rex David catches himself rambling. Trying to mitigate the whole accidentally getting your blood on someone.

And I didn't mean it's unsanitary like I don't have any blood born pathogens or anything. You can't even catch lycanthropy so dont-

He's cut off by Stewart's own apology. Can't help but chuckle a bit.

I guess I should've brought something for you instead of the dogs.

It's only because he know Stewart isn't abusing them now. Maybe he wasn't even the one at fault in the first place. What with how his reaction to getting his trousers nibbled or or almost bitten is. If he truly thought poor treatment was justified he wouldn't let something like that go.

Rex!

Maybe he misjudged Stewart's character. Caught him on a bad day both times? When Stewart jerks his head up again he notices a small fresh bruise on his cheek. Did he fall?

But again Stewart doesn't want his concern. He keeps it to himself. Only giving Rex a look that tells him to quit biting Stewart. He gets some push back, not too dissimilar to what he was trying to convey towards that vampire over the deer. Rex sees Stewart as prey? No that's absurd. It probably has something to do with the scent in the air, rat or mouse or something, a house this old may have small creatures running around getting on clothes. Rex must think Stewart's trousers smell like some small animal. He wants to hunt like the bigger dogs.

He accepts the envelope.

Uh tell him I said thanks, but he really didn't have to.

He's not looking at Stewart when the words hit his ears but the feeling like he wanted roa accept his apology vanished. David snaps his glare to Stewart's eye.

Did you just call me a-?

Anger always comes to David hot and fast. Usually not this illogically unless it's around the full moon, but a week out he has no explanation for it. Except for the fact that despite his interactions with Stewart being petty at worst he still feels like the man is out to get him. This hatred he can't explain. Everything he says sounds like the most malicious intent possible applies.

He breathes out.

Yeah... Okay.

He pockets the envelope, knowing it's not nice to count it, glances to his leg to make sure he's not been dripping blood onto their front stoop, and walks away.

I hope you feel better by then I guess.

As he walks back to the bus stop some people he passes pause in place, and look at his leg. Okay he's toned but he's not still dead and the streets and stare toned. He instantly gets the feeling of danger and knows that they're not looking at his legs in interest for anything more than the blood running down it.

Vampires.

He growls, and they back off, keep walking. He really does need to get some first aid. At least since its midday the only vampires out are pretty well fed ones, not those who will instantly pounce on him.

The next job is actually not dog walking but cat sitting for Dorris and Margaret. A lovely couple who show their care in their own way. At first he thought Margaret didn't like him until Dorris explained that's just how she is.

When he gets to their small home in a peaceful senior neighborhood they take one look at him and Dorris instantly runs to grab the medkit.

"Have you just been walking around like this?" Margaret scolds him "You're paranormal you know who can be out there"

I made it back in one piece didn't I?

Dorris returns with the bandages and cleaner "What happened?"

He explains the previous dog walking job, the new one, leaving out his pay or going into perry detail about Stewart.

"They should have offered to help you" Dorris tuts.

They did. I just didn't feel comfortable in their place like I do in yours.

"You can't flatter us young man" Margaret says.

After that he's given the usual csr care checklist and the couple leaves to their date night. They like to get started early so they don't stay out too late. And he feels a bit bad about taking Geoffrey Rollands dogs last week but still not coming by to watch the cats.

He cleans and bandages his leg, puts the medkit back in its proper spot, and starts to wonder why Stewart had also been looking at his cut so much. Was he that concerned for him? Should he have gone inside

visionarypriest-stewart

“What is that?”

“I know Wolf when I smell it.”

Stewart checked himself over and then looked at Rex who still had a little blood on him.

“David hurt himself on the walk.”

Greg takes Rex and looks at him, he examines the blood and grins.

“Bet it was hard for you not to jump all over him.”

Stewart’s mouth falls open.

“He’s clearly very well looked after.”

Geoffrey comments.

“Strong too. Fighting fit, one might say.”

Stewart swallows and looks between them.

“I know what you’re thinking, and no. I’m not keeping him around to lull him in to a false sense of security. He’s not the specimen for those sort of antics. He’s very good with the dogs. And right now, I need them to be on top form.”

Geoffrey looks Stewart over.

“You’ll be no use to me tonight if you’re too distracted. Go and feed, something half decent, can’t have you dropping treys and drinks over patrons. Be back and ready by the evening. And do get rid of the smell of rats.”

Stewart nods and rushes away. He makes no time in deciding what he will do. He visits the local butchers and is able to get some blood from out the back, he sneaks away though and finds a secluded area to drink it.

It will do for now, but the benefits are better when the blood is up to temperature.

As he walks back through the town, he hears his name being called. He pauses for a moment, thing he’s hallucinating.

“Stewart?”

As he turns around the voice gets closer.

“Stewart! Oh god it is you!”

“Anna.”

She looks him over, frowning when she sees his cheek.

“You’re not going back there, you’re coming home with me..”

“I can’t, I have duties tonight.”

“You have ‘duties’ every day. They will just keep finding things for you, excuses. Please come back with me. We’re worried about you.”

Stewart’s shoulders drop, he looks at Anna sadly.

“I…”

“Don’t you dare apologise this isn’t your fault.”

“I’ve just been so busy. It’s not that I didn’t want to come over.”

“You know you’re welcome any time.”

Stewart nods.

“I might be able to come by tonight when the club is finished, I can’t promise anything though.”

Anna nods softly.

“Can you let Esmeralda and Ybobb know I’m okay?”

Anna looks at him, he’s far from okay.

“Sure.”

Stewart smiles softly, and looks around before hugging her.

“Please be safe.”

“I’ll try.”

They eventually have to part ways and Stewart makes his way back to the estate. He quirky walks in and gets on with any work. Best to keep them happy.

visionarypreist-david

It's a cool late Thursday afternoon, as David walks Mrs. Wimblegates 2 Corgis Susan and Sandy through the park. The fluff balls of energy have been let off their leashes to run around with the other dogs as David chats with the other people at the park. Most of them the owners of the dogs or family to the owners but they've readily accepted David as a mainstay of the park regulars.

Stephanie is out with her great aunts golden retriever, and listening to the latest work story.

Are we making an animal abuse case? I can help you through the paperwork. John was a police detective in life.

Wasn't that in the 80's?

Some stuff still applies I bet.

Thanks for the offer but no need they're well taken care of now. Either it was seriously not knowing or knowing that now people are watching. Either way I'm glad the dogs are safe.

And the assistant?

He was short with me, but explained he was just hungry. I guess I interrupted lunch or something.

They scheduled you for noon so...

Yeah and he probably picked Tuesday just to call me a cunt with deniability. I honestly have this weird conflicting read on the guy I don't get it.

You hate him and find him cute.

And now that the dogs aren't being abused I honestly don't know why I hate him. I've dealt with ruder people.

Is he a werewolf hunter?

Nah they have different kinds of dogs usually, and nobody's been a tire hunter for a few decades.

As the corgis brought him back the ball he absentmindedly tossed it with probably a bit too much force.

Shit! I better go see where that went.

The dogs took off like a shot almost out of sight, but David gave chase. When the dogs went past the treeline he had to track them on something other than sight.

visionarypriest-stewart

“You’re sure I can’t catch you a nice young man? Someone strong for you to feed from?”

“Esmeralda, I’ll be okay. But that’s very kind.”

“You’re pale, you’re bruised and weak, that is not fine.”

“And you’re sure you have to go back?”

Stewart nods, resigned.

“I’m afraid so.”

“Oh, my little mouse, I will work out a way for you to get away from there.”

“They have an answer for everything!”

“Something will work out. Perhaps if I get my powers under control…”

“Well you did charm that wolf.”

Stewart nods softly. If only he could charm the other one…and not with powers either.

He tears himself away from the family, and eventually makes his way back to the estate.

He has a fair amount of time to kill. So he makes his way to the park and settles under a large shady oak tree. He could have easily fallen asleep, but he decides to read instead. He gets a little way in to the book when he feels his eyes drifting shut. Maybe he does need more blood...

The previous week had caught up with him, the cool breeze and birdsong lulled him down into a gentle sleep. Dangerous? Yes. But surely nothing could be as bad as what was at home?

The sounds of dogs playing in the distance seep in to the subconscious of his sleep, he dreams of when Rex was a puppy, how sweet he was. Just curious and a bit silly, not stoic and deadly like he is now.

He dozed softly until he felt something wet nudge his palm, then on the other side of him, something dropped a ball into his hand.

Stewart startles awake, unsure of his surroundings or what has been placed on him. He presses himself back against the tree to try and get away. Putting his arms across his body to protect himself. But the snapping of large jaws didn't come. Didn't drag him back home.

Instead, two little faces looked up at him.

“It’s okay, I won’t hurt you. I didn’t mean to scare you, I was scared myself, silly really.”

He relaxed and chuckled.

"Well who do you belong to then?"

They were ever sweet, loved affection it seemed.

"Let's wait here for your owner, eh?"

He throws the ball for them as he waits for his owner to collect them.

visionarypreist-david

The two dogs he's known for a couple years aren't hard to find based on their scent. But there's another scent that's oddly familiar as well. Not Steph's, and not coming from her direction. He doesn't know anyone else in this neighborhood, so who?

David is lost in thought as he finally reaches the corgis location, but instead of giving him the ball they run away leading him a few feet deeper into the trees and towards.

Him.

That's what smelled familiar. Like anxiety and old book smell. Two interactions and his scent is already catalogued in David's brain. Alongside the feelings of both avoid and approach which cancel eachother out.

He watches for a minute a Stewart doesn't even seem to recognize to his presence. Too busy being loved on by the corgis, laughing happily as they lick his face and play around him. He talks to them so sweetly. Maybe he actually does know how to treat a dog well when they're not trying to kill him. Would he treat David well if they got along better? Could he climb into his lap and lick his face.... WOAH!

The image jumps unbidden into his mind.

Only saved from it going further when Stewart looks up and makes eye contact with him. Fuck! What's he supposed to say?

Susan. Sandy.

He calls the dogs attention, they stop and turn to look. Then ignore him and return to giving Stewart affection. Forcing David to actually approach him to guide them away.

They didn't hurt you, right?

He begins to look him over. No bleeding. No claw marks or bites. Just the single bruise from before.

Sorry they just love people. I promise I don't usually let dogs get away from me all the time. Yours stay on a leash and in sight, these ones are just... Funny running into you here though.

He rambles. Wondering why Stewart's hanging out at the park a few streets over than in his own neighborhood. Does he know someone in the area. David doesn't get the impression he was followed given how far away Stewart was.

Are Rex and the hunting dogs around here somewhere?

He looks around for them. That would make sense given it's the nearest official dog park. But they aren't around. David shakes his head when Stewart asks if they're his dogs in rerurn.

Another client of mine. She can't get out and play fetch with them as much as they need. Stewart meet Sandy and Susan, yes named after the Queen's corgis.

It's actually easy to make conversation like this. Sitting on the grass under the shade of a tree. Dogs running around. Stewart isn't upset or short with him. Not on the defensive, or grossed out by his actively bleeding. Clearly he'd been grossed out if the way he stiffened when their hands brushed and some blood got on him said anything.

He gives each of the corgis a treat for returning to him, but realizes Stewart still has control of the ball. He could send all three of them off on their way at any time knowing if the dogs ran to chase it David would have to leave.

visionarypriest-stewart

These two Corgis were absolutely adorable. Stewart threw the ball for them and they happily came back, racing with one another.

“Well aren’t you both precious.”

He laughs and gently scratches them and pets them, under the chin, behind the ear, he almost doesn’t have enough hands to give them all the attention they want.

“Alright, there’s enough of me to go around. Okay, you can get some attention too. Gosh you’re affectionate.”

They start clambering over him and licking his face, he’ll definitely have to wash when he gets back. He Scottish lilt flows freely as he speaks and laughs.

He notices a shadow standing in front of him, must be their owner. He smiles and looks up.

“Oh hey, uh, are these…”

He stops, slightly awkwardly as David calls their names. His heart drops a little, even metaphorically as he supposes David doesn’t trust him with the dogs. But, being a stubborn breed they look at David for a moment and continue to love on Stewart. He can’t help but let a small grin slip through at the small win.

Sandy nudges his hand for him to throw the ball, while Susan noses his cheek where the bruise is.

“I’m okay.”

He lies whispers softly and smoothes the top of the dog’s head.

“No, quite the opposite actually.”

Stewart says softly as he keeps up the affection with the dogs.

“I didn’t realise this was so close to the dog park. I usually just come here to read, but, well I’ve been so busy, must have dozed off. Probably lucky they woke me actually. Wouldn’t want to be late for work.”

He looks at the corgis then towards the direction of the estate.

“They’re probably training on the grounds of the estate.”

David looks happy here, with dogs that he knows well, helping out an older lady. That was kind of him.

“That’s nice of you, they clearly enjoy your company.”

He was starting to see why.

“I doubt Orcus, Pluto and Hades will play to be honest. They’re too focused on work. I can’t speak for Rex though.”

He chuckles a little and looks at the ball in his hands. He hands it back to David, their fingers brushing as the ball exchanges hands. He hopes he’s not too cold for David.

“Must be quite nice choosing when you get to work.”

He says idly as he watches the dogs potter around on the grass.

visionarypreist-david

David shrugs.

Must be nicer having a guaranteed job. I work for whoever is willing to pay me to walk their dogs, move house for them, or fix things sometimes.

He's about to make some comment about the amount of pay. How £300 for walking Orcus, Pluto, Hades, and Rex is the most he usually gets. About how he gets £20 to hang out with Susan and Sandy because Mrs. Wimblegates still seems to think it's the 1960's or something. Some fancy personal assistant like Stewart probably would probably find it gauche to talk about money.

Especially since he got an extra £100 last week just for Stewart being short with him. That he definitely shouldn't mention. Even if it did help him a lot with making rent on time.

He's not saying Stewart is wrong to be jealous of a more flexible schedule, but he's jealous of him right back.

They fall into a surprisingly comfortable silence for a little while. David tosses the ball gently and the corgis run off within view to chase it. He doesn't make any move to stand honor leave the spot.

... You're accent? Earlier you were talking to the dogs in a Scottish accent is that something you put on for them or your real voice?

It's a stupid question. Who would fake an accent in their daily life to that extent? He tries to get ahead of it by quickly saying.

An ex of mine talked about how he got his accent trained out of him at Oxbridge. He's originally French, but it only comes out when w- on occasion.

Nice save. He almost said "When we had sex" which would be an exaggeration to say that was the only time. He'd slip back into it if emotions got high or if he wasn't focused on it, or purposely if he wanted something. (All scenarios which would naturally occur during sex too). Knowing David finds accents dead sexy. Yeah not admitting that.

Did you go to Oxbridge too? Is that just some weird vocal training they make everyone go through?

After Stewart answers. In what seems to be not the whole story, David tosses the ball again.

I like the accent better.

He can't help but find himself smiling over at Stewart. At least that admission doesn't reveal too much. And even on a purely platonic level Stewart's Scottish accent makes him sound more like a real genuine person. He hadn't even noticed before how much more alive he could seem. It was nice.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart nods and watches as the dogs play, he wishes one of them could come back so he could pet them while he talked with David. Would it be weird to wonder what it was like running his hands through David’s hair? Gently scratching his head as he did.

He wondered if David would hypothetically like it, having attention on him, reciprocated. He’s glad the idea of it doesn’t show as he’s sure the heat would have risen to his cheeks.

Stewart sits up a little and leans against the tree. He glances over to David and smiles as the ball is brought back to his hand again.

Ah. He heard him talking.

Jay. Does he mention that he knows? Probably best to keep it to himself, but he’s also itching to bring up that he knows him.

“It’s my real accent.”

He confirms and throws the ball again for Sandy.

“Not Oxbridge, no, but perhaps just as ancient.”

He chuckles, trying to play it off cool, like he hadn’t just almost revealed everything.

“It’s kind of a tradition you might say. Geoffrey…Lord Rolland likes his staff or anyone who works for him to speak properly. That way we provide a better service.”

Stewart pauses and looks at David.

“You do?”

He tucks some of his hair behind his ear and brings his knees up to rest his elbows on them as he smiles. When was the last time someone liked him for him?

“Well, it’s easier than keeping up the voice. Out here I can be myself a little more. Takes the edge off from being on edge all the time I suppose, airs and graces and whatnot.”

He shrugs a little hoping he hasn’t revealed too much. Perhaps for David, he can be more of himself? Susan curls up in Stewart’s lap and Stewart idly smooths her head, being gentle as does.

He looks up as a cloud rolls in, it’s bound to start raining soon. Maybe that’s a good thing and it’ll mask the scent of the other dogs, of David.

He’s read about situations like this in his books, how the main protagonist will get wet and move his hair out of his face as the water drips down, then his mind wonders to David, he’s only wearing g a t-shirt, what if gets wet and clings to him, to his body…

He shakes the thought from his mind.

visionarypreist-david

If it's all the same to Lord Rolland though I don't think I could fix the way I talk.

Casual. Slang filled. With cursing. And an accent that betrayed a mix of upbringings in multiple regions.

David is not jealous of the corgis who get to curl up in Stewart's lap and be pet. When's the last time he was pet? Instead os spending every full moon on a hunt by himself and curled under a blanket.

How easily can he imagine himself reaching over and tucking that stray bit of hair behind Stewart's ear himself.

His nose catches the scent of the incoming rain just as the clouds come into view. He stands, surprised at how reluctant he feels to do so.

I better take the dogs back to Mrs. Wimblegates before it starts raining. Come on Susan, Sandy.

He chuckles

Stewart doesn't need any more dogs in his life.

He attaches the leashes to the corgis collars. Just as a clap of thunder sounds and the dogs begin to bark at it.

Same time on Tuesday.

He reminds Stewart. The safest way to say he'll see him then. Maybe Stewart will even eat before then and they can have another nice talk like this one. Or will he be back to his old self?

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart himself a laugh and his lips press in to a smile on the corner of his mouth. David’s accent is unique, deep, rich, commanding. It suits him and Stewart wouldn’t have it any other way. A mixture of northern dialects all moulded in to one hybrid accent.

“Well, you work for him, yeah, but not for the estate. I sure he would t make you change it.”

And just as David has said he liked Stewart’s, Stewart wouldn’t want David to change, not himself, not his accent, nothing. Even if there was this rivalry between them…it doesn’t warrant changing him completely.

He lets the dogs go to David, though he can’t lie that he’d miss their friendly presence. If only the dogs back home were that affectionate.

Stewart chuckles and also reluctantly gets up. Perhaps no more dogs in his life…but he’s never considered a wolf. Even just as a friend if not meant that conversations would be more like this. Not accusing him of hurting animals or being cruel; or imposing his anger towards him.

Perhaps this is the David that Jay described. So why can’t they get on like this more?

“Yes. Sounds good, next Tuesday at noon. See you then.”

It’s a little awkward and clunky, but not short and sharp, he’s monitoring what he says, making sure he doesn’t mess up again. He runs his hand through his hair and it lands at the back of his neck as he chuckles and shrugs a little.

He steps out from under the tree, as though he’s testing the temperature. He pulls his jacket around himself just in case and looks back to David.

“See you.”

He politely, genuinely smiles as he turns to walk off in the direction of the estate. He glances over his shoulder as David walks the other way.

The first drip of rain falls as soon as he’s out of the park, he hopes David dies t have to go too far.

By the time he gets back to the estate he’s a little tired, but very damp, soaked through in fact. He hopes it takes away the scent bit when Greg opens the door he’s met with a face a pure disgust.

“You absolutely reek. Fucking hell, that’s almost as bad as the garlic.”

Stewart’s taken aback but doesn’t argue.

“I got caught in the rain.”

“You smell like wet dog. It’s gross.”

“But they didn’t get wet.”

He figured it was lingering on him and the rain made it worse.

“So you were with a dog.”

They look down as Rex approaches. Stewart remains on the porch. Rex growls a little at the sent of new dogs.

“Good boy. See, even he doesn’t like it.”

But the growling stops as Rex gets closer. He sniffs the air and he yips happily, like he’s picked up another scent. Stewart figures he can smell David. He doesn’t say anything though, just waits as the rain lashes over him.

“Rex stop it.”

Greg looks back to Stewart and frowns.

“See what you’ve caused? It’s lucky I don’t have him bite you, he’s all excited thinking there’s a new dog for him to play with.”

He sighs and looks around before reaching out of the door and pulling Stewart by the scruff of the shirt.

“Get in, now.”

He pulls him inside and slams the door closed before sending Stewart off to get clean and rid of the dog scent. He roughly lets Stewart go, pushing him slightly as he does, which causes him to stumble but not fall.

“Okay, I’m going.”

He makes his way out of sight before Greg’s temper worsens.

visionarypreist-david

With a light jog to his pace once Stewart was out of view David reached Mrs. Wimblegates door before the rain got him or the corgis too drenched. The dogs shook themselves off on her porch and David had to hold back from doing so. Not because the older woman didn't know he was a werewolf, but mostly out of respect.

She must have seen the rain because Mrs. Wimblegates comes to the door with a towel.

Thanks.

He takes it and dries off while answering her question about how the dogs did.

Perfect as always. They had lots of fun and made a new friend today. Found this guy sitting under a tree and decided he'd be their new playmate.

The corgis were always very social creatures.

Mrs. Wimblegates insists David come inside for a cup of tea and to wait out the rain, and since he just got a text from his next client saying they had to cancel since their dogs don't want to go out in the rain he allows himself to stay.

Making my own schedule.

He mutters under his breath at the text thinking of what Stewart said before. There's another text from Stephanie.

Steph: Vampire!

Steph: Why didn't I think about it before? Is this Stewart guy maybe a Vampire?

Steph: You know your hereditary enemy.

David: This isn't Twilight or Good Omens

David: He's not a vampire

Steph: Damn David you already asked him

David: I'm not socially inept. I know he's not a vampire because I literally saw him today in the sunlight.

Steph: Well he's not gonna sparkle, David. Plus a well fed vampire can survive in the sun for a while

David: He's not well fed. He's small.

David: And I literally had a bleeding cut near him. So not a vampire.

Steph: And he's not a witch if he got caught out in his rain and lived.

David: Normal human, who I just have a bad feeling about

Steph: Maybe he's homophobic?

David thinks about it for a minute. Tries to remember if he mentioned anything about Jay being a guy when telling Stewart about him. How did he react?

David: I don't know...

Steph: Normally decent guy but you for some inexplicable reason think he's a threat.

But he was hoping Stewart was gay not the complete opposite.

Steph: Human homophobe or Gay Vampire.

David: Aaah my 2 greatest fears!

He jokes back.

Then Mrs. Wimblegates returns with tray of fresh cookies and asks what's the thing he's holding. Right she doesn't remember smart phones being invented.

visionarypriest-stewart

At least the shower is hot, and he’s able to get warm. He washes himself thoroughly, making sure to get rid of any unsightly smells. He doesn’t want the night’s patrons to be put off.

Despite the slight rocky moment with Greg, it had been a good day. And David was nice…it’s a shame the dogs he was associated with made him look like the world’s worst owner. And they aren’t even his!

He dried himself off and put his wet clothes out to be washed. He wished he could see himself in a mirror. See how bad the bruise was, see if he could fix his hair or straighten his clothes. But no, he has to guess.

He sits on the edge of the bed, wrapped in a towel as he air dries. He can’t help but think back to the park, think of David. How he sat next to him, how close he was, how warm he was.

Oh to be just in his company again like he was before, getting on, not arguing, close to each other. Stewart imagines just being that little bit closer again and resting his head on David’s shoulder as they rest together, Stewart taking in the warmth. He stays upstairs for as long as possible until he’s needed for the night’s work.

Downstairs, Greg was in Geoffrey’s office, pacing.

“I’m sure I could smell something else, not just your average dogs.”

Geoffrey looks up.

“You think it might be our new dog walker?”

Greg nods.

“Exactly. Which begs the question, why?”

“Coincidence?”

“Likely, but they must have been in each other’s company for a while or the wolf scent wouldn’t linger.”

Geoffrey sets his pen down.

“We shall have to keep an eye on them, but perhaps it isn’t a bad thing.”

Greg scoffs in confusion.

“If they can at least get on, it will make it easier to persuade David to join us in a more…permanent manner.”

Greg stops and looks at him, wide eyed.

“And if they don’t get on?”

“All the more reason to hire David fully, healthy competition you might say. He’s already good with the dogs…perhaps it would give Stewart pause to work harder for once.”

Greg laughs before thinking.

“And if they’re still not getting on…he’d need someone to turn to.”

“Now you’re getting the picture.”

Geoffrey stands and opens a large cabinet door. He produces a bottle brandy and opens it. For good measure of course, not that it will do much.

“Greg.”

He offers him a glass.

“Thank you.”

“Let’s see what time will give us.”

Back upstairs the daydreaming assistant finally gets dressed and ready for the evening’s activities.

visionarypreist-david

At the night club a group of vampires sit in the usual booth with one key person in the group missing. Nick is explaining the situation.

Rounds are on me tonight because this is my fault. I got carried away, so Jay's at his place recovering. He can't lose anymore blood.

We can keep our mouths to ourselves. You're telling me he can't even come out to party.

He tried to fight me on it but he needs rest. Not things to get his blood pumping.

I'm going to make him a get well soon card.

He'll make it up to you.

Ooooo details.

Jay is bringing a friend.

Fresh meat?

Not exactly, but someone who's been requested plenty of times.

Jay said he could never get-

Davian!

The one and only.

I've never met a werewolf before!

Yes you have.

Fine I've never been fucked by a werewolf before.

It's Davian. Monogomous ex Davian.

But he can do hookups right?

I wonder what werewolf blood tastes like.

Nicholas' gaze turns to meet Stewart, in a way that could either be on purpose or accidental as he pours another round of drinks. There's a slight concern in the way he's looking at him once he notices the bruise.

The others see it too.

Nobody says anything. It's an all too common sight, and will get a clearly false answer if asked about. Or sometimes no response at all.

Well if Jay's not here to tell us anything, Stewart do you know anything about Davian!

We should tell him what we know first.

I doubt our information overlaps or repeats.

visionarypriest-stewart

< It was winter, Stewart pulled the thick, warm woollen coat around himself. The cashmere jumper, though soft, wasn’t all that warm. He looks up and smiles softly as the older, taller man, puts an arm around him and pulls him close.

“Not far now, then we’ll be in the warm. And trust me, it can get very hot in there.”

“Where are we going again?”

“My exclusive club. I can’t wait to show you off.”

Stewart blushes a deep red and giggles a little. He’s grateful when a taxi is hailed and they both sit in the back. He curls into Geoffrey’s side, content. Geoffrey puts an arm around him and chuckles softly.

“You deserve these fine things you know. Only the best for you.”

The tips of Stewart’s ears go red, he pushes his glasses back up.

“And how wonderful you look while in them, enjoying them. And your sweet tooth is utterly adorable, useful too.”

He reaches into his pocket and breaks off a square of expensive chocolate. He holds it in front of Stewart’s lips, they part obediently and Stewart melts at the taste as the square is gently pushed into his mouth.

“So good. Need to keep your blood sugar up tonight, you’re going to need the energy.”

“I can’t wait to see what it’s like.”

“Oh Stewart, it’s to die for.” >

“Stewart! A drink, now.”

Stewarts nods and swiftly heads over to him. He pours a large drink, exactly to Geoffrey’s liking. He waits for further instruction before heading off to other patrons.

He gets any snacks they need any drinks. He looks over at the booth that Jay frequents and notices he’s not there. He hopes he’s okay.

He catches Nicholas’s gaze first, he must have spotted the bruise. Stewart smiles politely and nods, indicating he’s okay. He comes over to them when beckoned.

“Well…all I know is what Hay told me the other night. He was Jay’s ex. A werewolf…”

He keeps his voice down.

“Um, how did Jay describe it? They have been…they know each other quite intimately I think. If you know what I mean?”

He pauses.

“What do you know?”

He listens as they talk and looks over when there’s a bit of excitement coming from other patrons. In walks Jay, lavish as ever. And he has someone new on his arm, well new to the regulars.

Stewart recognises those brown eyes anywhere. He almost drops the tray he’s holding.

“David?”

visionarypreist-david

Way more details than that.

The question really is what do you want to know?

Ross says salacious.

A commotion cuts off their third hand retelling of some sexy stories, probably even more exaggerated versions alongside the true story of how the two met. As new adults while Jay was at Oxbridge and had a 4 way breakup, single again for the first time since he'd started getting with people.

All heads turn towards the entrance and at the same time Stewart recognizes David, Nick recognizes.

Jay Lafayette! What on earth are you doing here?

Oh bite me Nicholas. It takes a little more than sex gone rough to keep me down.

But aftercare, and rest, you promised to wouldn't come out tonight.

Well I also promised I'd bring Davian-

Not tonight.

Someday, and today happened to be the night he was free. Do you know how hard it is to get this old dog out to learn new tricks? Davian you really should give yourself more free time.

Jay is leaning into David's side, looking better than he'd been described, but clearly enjoying to excuse to be propped up by the man she's showing off.

But David's not paying attention. As soon as he walked in here his senses were on high alert. Vamperic energy coming from every corner. Danger, enemy, attack, run. He knew this would happen but not so many. He expected a more diverse group of paranormals. Jay wasn't one to be satisfied with a single flavor of partner.

Trying to refocus on something he tamos down the part of his brain which is tuning into the fact that he's surrounded by vampires. Telling it he knows this, he's fairly confident he's safe, and the extra warning is unnecessary. Soon it becomes a dim him to the background and he can focus on other things.

Like the man across the room that he locks eyes with. Stewart holding a tray. Serving drinks to vampires! He must know since it's a well know paranormal night club, but does he realize the danger. Suddenly David doesn't feel all two untrustworthy of Stewart, what's left is the protective instinct.

Stewart?

David is lead to Jay's group, the one Stewart is currently waiting on.

He's introduced to and propositioned by Ross and Gill, already having met Nick once before, and...

You already know Stewart, don't you Davian?

I- I didn't realize you two knew eachother though.

Stewart here is a friend of mine. No Davian I have NOT slept with him, he's more your type than mine.

You have a type?

A vague one.

He turns his body into Jay's a bit more pressing closer and grinning to show off his canines. Voice low and growly. A teasing flirt.

Couldn't go back to human once you tried otherworldly.

But instead of parrying a remark back or swooning dramatically. Jay laughs in his face, and David feels the opposite of suave and confident.

Oh you're so cute Davian.

With introductions out of the way Jay goes off to mingle with other regulars who need to see that he's here. Taking his partners with him, so e reluctantly as Ross kept trying to ask David questions, but there seemed to be this understanding from all of them when Jay said.

Now Stewart, Davian is new to this sort of scene, please show him s good time.

With a wink, and then it was just the two of them.

David swallowed because this was embarrassing. Your ex being friends with the assistant to you boss who you kinda don't know if you like or don't. Especially knowing what said ex discusses. And failing miserably to probably match said God their sex appeal level expectations.

You're probably sick of running into me.

He jokes, sitting down and now a a more comfortable eye level for Stewart. He wants to say something cheesy like "What's a guy like you doing in a place like this" but states the more blatant concern behind that.

Seriously what's a human doing in a paranormals club. Especially offering a 99% vamperic crowd drinks. Don't you think someone might misunderstand and-

Just as Stewart's about to explain Geoffrey appears.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Have you seen what’s just walked in?”

Geoffrey nods and raises an eyebrow.

“Hmm, this could be interesting.”

“Vampires outnumber him tenfold.”

“We must bide our time.”

“What do you suggest?”

“Leave him with Stewart. He’s to attend to his every need, dote on him, make him feel special.”

“And the others?”

“Make sure they don’t take a single drop from him. I have him marked. And I never miss.”

Greg nods and quietly heads around the room to spread the word.

Stewart’s mouth is agape, he has to quickly fix it as Jay and David walk forward. He watches as David leans forwards, was the room getting hotter? The sun coming up? Because after that display, which Jay laughs at, Stewart finds himself feeling rather flustered.

He clears his throat.

“I’ve known Jay for a little while now. Wasn’t sure if it was your ex or not. But his descriptions and yours weren’t far off.”

He looks over to Jay and nods.

“Yes…of course.”

He looks back at David and chuckles.

“No, it’s nice to see you here actually. Makes a change from the usual crowd, not that I don’t like seeing the regulars… you know what I mean.”

Stewart does his best to keep his face neutral, polite. Oh! He thinks Stewart is a human?! The revelation surprises him.

“Well, actually…”

He stops when Geoffrey walks over.

“David! It’s a pleasure to see you here. Fancy joining in on some of the fun? You don’t know what you’re missing!”

Stewart clears his throat. He doesn’t like speaking in code in front of customers, let alone in front of David. And what he’s about to say could cost go later, but if it keeps David safe…he can take it.

“David is Jay Lafayette’s companion this evening.”

He gives Geoffrey a look, one to say that David shouldn’t be touched.

“Any companion of Lord Lafayette is welcome in my home.”

Geoffrey nods once.

“David, tonight you have the pleasure of having Stewart here all to yourself. You see, Stewart is my best, I thought him everything he knows. How to be the perfect worker. He will attend to your *every need*. All you need do is ask. Any trouble will b dealt with really quite severely, you’ll be quite safe.”

Stewart smiles, it’s polite, sincere, but it doesn’t meet his eyes.

“I’ll leave you both to it. Have a good night, won’t you David. Stewart, look after him.”

“Yes Lord Rolland. Can I get you anything, David? Food? A drink? Water?”

visionarypreist-david

.... Thanks?

No pressure except that you had two people insisting you had s good time. Both seemed to have some other motive st play and while he couldn't guess what Geoffrey's was he was sure he knew what Jay wanted.

Even if "all to yourself" and "every need" were very broad statements. With implications he didn't want to let himself consider.

Either way, whatever the motives behind their setups, both entailed Stewart being stuck with him. It was strange having the guy he usually answered to when picking up the dogs now be the one waiting on him.

Water. I probably shouldn't be drinking tonight I've got an early morning.

Not to mention he was in a new location, filled with a werewolves natural enemy, and needed to keep his wits about him for safety. Even if he was promised he'd be safe David can't put that trust in someone else. He had to look out for himself.

Before Stewart leaves he can't help but comment.

You told Geoffrey I'm Jay's companion, but I hope he realizes I'm just the guy who walks his dogs not anyone special.

Especially since he's the one who called him out for blatant animal abuse and now he's getting VIP treatment. It was incongruous with an expected reaction.

And you know Jay and I aren't still...

He also felt the need to clarify.

When Stewart prompted him for a food order he shrugged.

Didn't think they'd have real food at a vampire place. What do you like here?

visionarypriest-stewart

“Wow, he’s handsome!”

“Oh I’d love to take a bite!”

“I’d love for him to bite me!”

Greg rolls his eyes as he makes his way through the crowd and gives them stock instructions not to go for David.

He can’t help but watch the werewolf and Stewart from the other side of the room though.

Stewart watches Geoffrey leave and turns to attend to David, as he would any other patron. Polite, soft demeanour, attentive.

“Water. Right, that’s understandable, I won’t be long.”

He goes to leave when David speaks again. His mouth drops open a little in embarrassment, he didn’t mean to talk for David.

“I’m sorry. I just wanted to convey to Lord Rolland that you’re new here, and that you were with Jay, not in the literal sense…though I see how it came out that way.”

He places both hands clasped in front of him, twiddling his fingers as he speaks.

“With it being your first time here, I didn’t think you would want any random patron to dig in to you, it’s just a fall safe, insurance to make sure you stay safe. And Jay and Lord Rolland probably hold the most power in the room.”

He’s still unsure if David is single? How can he not be? Especially now, in his current attire. Stewart glad he’s not hungry.

“He’s mentioned it…that you weren’t together. He is rather fond of you.”

A smile crept on the corner of his lips, he was beginning to understand why.

“You won’t believe this, or maybe you will…”

Stewart chuckles to himself and places a hand behind his head awkwardly before continuing on.

“Well, there a witch that work in the kitchen, don’t ask how old she is! But she can get you anything you desire from food, too…most other things. So if you’re peckish she can rustle up a snack or a full meal.”

He leans his hip on the side of the wall, almost a bit too casually.

“There are bar snacks too, chocolate bars, peanuts, you know…”

He thinks for a moment.

“Me? Well, if it were up to me I’d either choose the loaded fries or garlic bread.”

Not that he’s ordered food in a very long time.

“I’ll get your water.”

He smiles and goes to get it. He’s gone a short while but comes back with ice cold mineral water in a tall glass.

visionarypreist-david

It was another good thing he wasn't drinking if Stewart was going to look so cute. A tall drink of water in his own right. Sexy little hip pop, speaking in his natural voice, all buttoned up and serious yet nervous at the same time. David's animal side didn't care for human social norms it didn't understand why he couldn't flirt with Stewart here and now. It seemed to forget about seeing him as untrustworthy now that they were comfortable.

Rather fond... That's one way to put it I guess. It's why he keeps trying to pitch me to any available guy he can find. Jay exaggerates thought.

He laughs it off.

I believe it. That's really cool actually. Even more spoilt for choices now.

Those actually sound good though, he's got good taste.

I should probably go with the fries. Probably not in my best interest to eat garlic in a place like this.

When Stewart leaves he sends off a quick text to Steph about Stewart already knowing Jay, and then looking around the room. He notices the human in question enjoying his little enforced break from being drunk from too much. Using it to tease the vampires and then stopping them with a reminder just before they bite, all the while Nick has to watch.

Seriously with all the guys Jay's dated why can't he stop reminiscing about their time together. The relationship was sweet the breakup was amicable, the sex was good. But was it that good? Especially to someone as experienced as Jay is now.

When Stewart returns he's not sure why he expected anything less than this fancy water. Of course they wouldn't serve plain tap here.

He thanks Stewart as he takes it.

You might as well have a seat if you're going to be stuck with me all night. I won't be able to make for any tips youre losing out on.

No prices means you probably can't afford it. If this is a place Jay frequents he's definitely not in the caliber to afford what other patrons can offer Stewart. At least he can give him comfort. Maybe even conversation like they did at the park.

Only if you want to obviously.

But even as he said it he knew that here it wasn't an option for Stewart. No wonder he was being so friendly now. He was instructed to.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart nods as David muses. As far as he was concerned Jay was always sincere. Even with flamboyance and over exaggeration, Stewart took him to be telling the truth. He wondered why David couldn’t see it.

“The fries, good choice.”

He whisks himself away to make the order, being sure to take full advantage of the fact this will be covered by Geoffrey, not that such an insignificant cost will affect him, and Stewart makes sure to add more steak to the already packed fries.

It arrives within seconds, perfectly done medium rare slices of steak, topped with cheese, bacon jalapeños anything and everything someone would want.

He smiles as he prints it back and sets it down in front of David. He can’t deny how good it smells.

Stewart glances around, David wants him to sit, but he knows he also has a duty to attend to him. But this would also be attending to him, to his every need and perhaps he feels out of place with Stewart just standing there. He doesn’t want David to feel uncomfortable. He wants to make sure the exact opposite actually. He compromises with his own inner conflict and perches on the arm of the sofa. Back straight, but shoulders relaxed, legs outstretched.

“Actually my feet are killing me, so yeah, thanks. I can still jump up and get you anything though.”

Aside from life when the club was shut, the worst part of it all was the shoes. Polished like glass so you could see your reflection in them, but pointy and narrow, the pinched his feet to no end. Stewart was glad to take the weight off.

He stiffens as Geoffrey walks by, the older man looks and smiles.

“Good work, Stewart. I hope everything is to your liking David?”

Stewart nods in thanks and looks over to David.

“Don’t worry about the cost. Jay has already demanded it goes on his tab. And I daren’t argue with him.”

He chuckles and folds his arms.

“Besides, you’re his guest, and secondly mine, my guest also is what I mean, so as he is already a member, it’s in the fee anyway.”

He glances over at Jay.

“He’s far too busy enjoying himself to remember, understandable really. That’s what this place is for. For people to have a good time all under one roof. So relax.”

He looks to Stewart.

“Both of you, yes Stewart, you’re still working, but like I said, just tend to David don’t let your mind be consumed by anyone else, unless of course I or agree ask anything of you.”

Was he being sincere or was it a charm? Either way Stewart agreed.

“Yes Lord Rolland. Thank you.”

“Now if you don’t mind…”

He bids David a good evening and heads over to the crows who are waiting for him. He boasts about being the best shot in town, how he’s about to show it, even without a gun, but with knives as Greg lines up the target board for him.

“So archaic, but I’ll prove it if you really want me to.”

He rolls his eyes and rolls up his shirt sleeve and takes aim.

It’s a blink and you miss it moment. Those in the room were either having their own fun, drunk, distracted or both. And people wouldn’t necessarily pick up on it if they didn’t know where or what to look for.

And even though his hands were clasped in his lap, his posture perfect and his face neutrally happy, he could help but self soothe by worrying his fingers together in his hand. And he was sure the movements were small, microscopic even, but he couldn’t help but flinch every time a knife hit the board.

visionarypreist-david

He's practically salivating, and maybe a bit for real, just from looking at the food. Smelling it. Everything but the kitchen sink in on top of these fries. A whole streak cut up and spread on top of them cooked the way he liked it without Stewart even asking. How did he just know?

Satisfied that Stewart has sat down beside him. Close. Comfortable. He digs in without a second thought, only belatedly realizing how rude it was and turns to offer some to Stewart who politely shakes his head in decline.

He should've offered first before he ate some and probably made it gross.

Geoffrey walks by just as David takes another sip of water so he's able to speak without the awkwardness of getting caught mid bite into his food.

It's great! Everything's great!

He glances over to Stewart. Almost seeming to read his thoughts, guessing what he was going mention next, Geoffrey explains away the cost. Of course Jay would want to pay for him, and how damn expensive must this membership fee be to encompass everything.

Of course Jay would insist. Give him my thanks.

Not the time to be prideful about being paid for when he's having an exclusive experience he couldn't otherwise afford.

Then a zing of panic hits him as Geoffrey turns a look to Stewart. Noticing quickly how his service smile twitches. Fuck did he get Stewart in trouble.

I asked him to-

Luckily it seems to be okay. The proprietor of the club going off for a demonstration, that doesn't impress David one bit. Flashly showy hunting skills rarely translate to true result. Plus humans relied on knives or gun or other weapons, wolves had all the weapons they needed built in. Unable to be disarmed.

So the hunting dogs aren't just for the aesthetic.

He muses aloud, to Stewart, but gets no indication that he's heard. Glancing up slightly since Stewart is higher up on the arm of the sofa he sees him just staring ahead. David gently places a hand on Stewart's thigh, the only part of him within reach to get his attention, and instantly pulls away once Stewart turns to him. Not wanting to let himself linger in that touch.

Not a fan of sudden loud sounds?

He recognizes.

I can relate. Sensitive hearing and all.

He points to his ear even if technically his ears in wolf form are way more in tuned than his human ones.

He chuckles when Stewart makes a quip about it.

You're quoting little red riding hood at me, real creative.

There's no bite behind it, almost encouraging him to continue, as the teasing seems to give Stewart something else to focus on.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart idly shakes his head, continuing to smile.

“They’re very much working dogs. He usually prefers a gun over knives, pheasant, are his favourite.”

‘After me…’

He tries to appear relaxed, present in the moment, how long had he been staring in to space? Not paying attention, not doing his job?

He turns his head quickly towards David. He relaxes, but he swears his can still feel the warmth of David’s fingers on his thigh. He laughs to ease the tension.

“Something like that, yeah…didn’t mean to zone out.”

Stewart’s eyes follow David’s hand, that hand which touched his thigh, so gently, just for a moment, how gentlemanly it was, and yet part of him wished hit had lingered.

“My,my, David…what big ears you have.”

He laughs a little and pushes his glasses up.

“Yeah…also not so creative as you don’t have big ears, yet, I don’t know if they do get big, your ears, they’re regular sized ears…I’ll shut up.”

Not his most creative moment, but he does wonder what David looks like in wolf form, was it true what Jay said he was like the day after? Because from his experience…then maybe David was tired…perhaps Jay was right, would be better to cuddle with him rather than walk the dogs.

Why is he thinking this?!

He watches David enjoy the meal, glad he’s made the right guesses. He politely declines when he’s offered.

“I’ve already eaten. But that’s really kind of you to offer though.”

He wants to move closer, he’s not sure what’s drawing him in, how he wants to relax and flop on to David and curl in to his side as they talk. He wants to stare deeply into his eyes and for David to have his arm protectively around him.

What is this feeling? He’s never felt that before. A need to be near David, hang on to his every word. It’s not like a charm, it’s something else? Why did he feel this way about him?

Thankfully his thoughts dissolved as Jay laughs loudly. He looks over and notices how he’s now with Nicholas, who seems to be gently chastising him, at least Jay isn’t drunk, or being fed from. Best to heal.

“Where did you meet Jay?”

A small tint of redness comes to his face, he didn’t mean to just blurt it out.

visionarypreist-david

Oh how did a guy like that and a guy like me get together?

He leans his head back to think of how best to tell the story. Finding some amusement in Stewart's embarrassment over the topic despite him bringing it up.

We met at a bar, the ones with like a stage where local bands or comics perform. I was temporary security for that night's musical artist, and Jay was single for the first 2 weeks in a row of his life following 4 separate ill timed breakups, on school holiday from Oxbridge. I thought he was only flirting with me to get backstage or as a distraction, so I ignored him. Telling him I was a werewolf only made him more relentless. Then the show ended and he'd have nothing else to gain, but he still showed an interest. And back then he matched my usual type way more, so it's not like ignoring him had been easy.

He pauses.

You know it's actually funny seeing him in a place like this now because back then this was exactly the business he talked about opening. A hub for paranormal cultures except open during all hours so it wasn't mostly vampires.

Back then he again thought Jay was only saying it to impress his new werewolf boyfriend. The first werewolf Jay had been with, but not the first non human.

We broke up when he wanted to go back to polyamory.

David shrugs.

One of my better relationships all things considered. I just wish he didn't think it was his job to set me up. Makes dating awkward when they already have expectations, or have a wolf fetish. Jay didn't know though the guy wasnt the most forthcoming, but his questions were pointed.

This was nice.

Stewart was easy to talk to.

It was warm. The couch was soft. He was well fed... It was late. He hadn't rested in a while...

The only thing rage kept him alert was the remaining sense of knowing it was unsafe. The feeling of vampires nearby he'd pushed down enough to relax still alarmed loud enough to drop him from drifting off.

He did lean closer.

Over at the other table Nick and Jay watched Stewart and David.

Did you plan this with Lord Rolland?

Nick asked not believing his own statement was true even as he suggested it.

Never.

Jay felt a bit of worry at what Geoffrey Roland could be playing at. Only he was allowed to manipulate situations to get Davian and Stewart together, because it was for the better.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart quietly listens. It’s not too dissimilar to what Jay had mentioned, just with more detail. Or less, depending on what details were being shared. But this was more the human side of things, rather than the sex side of it.

“Sounds nice.”

If there’s something or someone Jay wants Stewart’s witnessed him getting it.

“He wants, well wanted to open up his own club?”

That sounds divine. A place for more people to go, to unwind and enjoy themselves…to feel safe. How long had it been since he was human? Stewart fears he might be forgetting.

He pulls a face at the mention of a wolf fetish. He’s sure David wouldn’t purposefully set him up with someone like that?

He knows there are plenty of people who often get kicked out of the club for having a blood or vampire fetish. Though they don’t fall into that category, he wonders how the caravan brothers keep getting back in.

“Let me get you another water.”

He stands and heads off to the bar, making sure the water is just as it was before, cold, crisp perfect. He places it down before David and perches on the edge of the sofa cushion this time. He finds it hard not to sink down into the soft cushions.

He remains upright, but relaxed. Attentive yet nervous, but closer still to David. He turns his body to give him his full attention. A round of applause happens in the background and Geoffrey now has a patron on each arm. He glances in their direction before going to the back room behind them, closing the curtain behind them.

Stewart relaxes further but keeps his wits about him, even if Geoffrey is preoccupied, Greg was still around here somewhere.

He’s then asked about his dating and he wonders what would be the right thing to tell David.

“Oh, I’ve only had the two partners. It was a long time ago.”

Well, one definite partner and one who got to him via said partner. He sighs softly and smiles.

“Both men were very different, in so many different ways. One of them very commanding, knew what he wanted. The other well he wanted to have that same energy…he didn’t matter it.”

visionarypreist-david

So fairs fair tell me about your weirdest exes?

Only two. Well that was a surprise given just all of Stewart, but he also didn't seem the most outgoing so it probably was just from lack of exposure. At least with just two the likelihood he's had to deal with one of them still hanging around like Jay is for him is low.

Yeah nothing more awkward than trying to be domineering and failing miserably at it.

Like earlier this night when Jay decided that was the moment to laugh at his flirting instead of playing back. Put on a show. Before he realizes it the words are out of his mouth.

I take it you're a submissive then?

He backpedals.

Unless those experiences made you realize otherwise I'm not trying to put you in a box or stereotype based on-

He shuts himself up. As if he hasn't dated the dictionary definition of a switch who can vouch for his understanding that not everyone is strict in their bedroom roles.

That was way too personal. Wow and I can't even blame alcohol on it.

David adds. Steering away from his own question before Stewart can give any denial or confirmation. He doesn't know which would be worse. The possible incompatibility or the answer he hopes is true. He lifts his glass as if to prove he hadn't been drinking to the man who's brought him said waters, dumb, and takes a long sip.

Shifting his weight on the sofa David accidentally dips too far back causing Stewart to fall a bit closer into him. Fitting perfectly beside him, breaking his stiff posture for a split second, and somehow not immediately pulling away.

Sorry.

So David had to. Getting up before he did something stupid.

I should really get going. I had a nice time though you did great um thanks for everything...

visionarypriest-stewart

<Even with his glasses on, the world was a haze, swimming in and out of focus as people came towards him. It felt so good, but he felt so out of control at the same time. He was sat back on the sofa, head lolling as several different vampires came towards feed all at once.

He casually reached out his hand and Geoffrey too it, holding it firmly.

“You’re doing so well, here, have some more chocolate.”

Stewart can barely make a sound, he just nods and lets the chocolate be put in to his mouth. He’s not even sure what’s going on. He just knows he feels dizzy. A golden cup is brought to his lips, it’s the nice drink this time, the sweet one that makes him feel warm.

“Oh, Geoffrey, this might be your best one yet! The sounds he makes, the sweat beading on his brow over his glasses. So innocent. So pure.”

Geoffrey watches proudly and nods.

“Thank you Michelle, such an easy target to. Practically picked up up off the streets.”

There’s a gasp around the sofa followed by giggles.

“A stray?!”

“He scrubs up well.”

“Fine things suit him. Hopefully he’s a keeper, if not just to look at.”

Geoffrey laughs and cards his hand through Stewart’s hair, like one would pet a dog.

“He’s a good pet, loyal. But not quite a stray, just lost. Alone. Easy target.”

Another vampire comes around to feed, he’s closer to Geoffrey’s age and has been itching to do so since Stewart was brought in. He takes a bite and pulls a face.

“Garlic, Geoffrey? Really?!”

The Lord raises an eyebrow but otherwise doesn’t react.

“It was in a lasagna with a side of garlic bread, how else do you think he flows so easily?”

Greg pulls a face but continues to drink, enraptured by the site. He was half convinced it was him that was making Stewart this way, not the drinks, sweets or drugs.

Greg takes a few deep breaths, completely in ecstasy. He wipes the blood from his mouth and looks up at Geoffrey through half lidded eyes.

“I want more of him.”

Geoffrey folds his arms, leaving Stewart without that grounding contact, a whimper escaped him. It garnered a cooing response from the majority crowed around him.

“You know he’s mine.”

“I know, but he’s just so…”

Geoffrey looks at Stewart and bends down to whisper in his ear.

“Do you want to feel even better?”

Greg begins to grin. Stewart blinks hazily how can he already feel better? He nods, hoping it’s the right answer.

Geoffrey gives Greg a stern look.

“Do not take more than you need.”

Greg nods and looks at Stewart.

“We’re going to have such a good time. It’ll feel so good.”

Geoffrey places the cup at Stewart’s lips, he sips it carefully. He feels a breeze at his thighs before a sharp pain between his legs.>

“I…”

It all happened so fast. The question, the backpedaling. He was about to answer, open and honestly but then he finds himself falling into David’s side. He’s in a little shock and, wow David’s so warm.

But David quickly moves to get up. And Stewart scrambles to stand to attention.

“Don’t be…I should have…”

He smoothed his clothes down and tries his best not to look panicked, or around the room for that matter.

“I’m glad you e had a good time, you’re welcome to stay…”

He hopes he has t upset him, maybe when they got too close David could smell he was a vampire. Maybe he just didn’t think he was good enough like Jay was? Oh why did he have to try in everything?!

visionarypreist-david

Right as the door is about to close behind him he hears quicken footsteps and a hand catching it, but turns around to find it's not Stewart chasing after him.

Davian!

What Jay?

You're leaving alone?

He folds his arms across his chest but can't dare look Jay in the eye.

Well yeah. The only person I talked to was Stewart and he's working.

Jay lets out a sigh of relief stepping past the door into the night outside and letting it close.

I see you'll be meeting up with him later.

He says with a smirk.

Not like you're thinking. I'll see him Tuesday if he chooses to answer the door.

Jay pouts

But it was going so well.

Yeah I had a good time. Thanks for showing me the place it's just late. I can't stay out like I used to.

I meant with him, Davian.

His job was to be nice to me... He's good at it.

Yes Stewart is good. I'm sure hes a very good boy. He takes direction, he's attentive, he was yours alone and he was satisfied with that... Cute while doing it to. You looked good together.

David can feel the words already spinning ideas in his head.

None of that. Stop meddling Jay okay my love life isn't a game. How bored are you?

I'm worried. You shouldn't have to be alone Davian and you won't take any of my other help directly so this is what I can do! I'm also worried about you going home at night with vampires around every corner.

I'm fine.

Jay thinks for a minute.

Okay. Well I'm leaving now Davian, and-

Aren't you going to have one of your guys walk you to your car?

Oh I wouldn't want to pull them away from all the fun. I'll just be by myself, driving around at night in my bright car, low on blood.

No you're not.

Or I'm going to drive you home the same way I got you here.

David sighs. He's had his protective nature used against him. And of course it fucking worked. Once in the car he jokes.

Does it piss off your vampires that you're leaving with a werewolf?

Does it piss off yours that you're leaving with your sexually active ex?

Stewart's not mine.

Because that's the detail he's focused on.

You should know you're on my official guest list. You can visit whenever you please even if I'm not there.

When are you not there?

I won't be patronizing Geoffrey much. Too busy with starting my own rival club. I like my places with a lot more variety to choose from.

You- You were there collecting information.

I can be smart when I want to Davian. You always liked smart ones.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart reaches out but David leaves. He watches as Jay gets up to leave with him. He clears away the glass and plate. Once he puts it down he turns and bumps into someone.

“Sorry, I…”

“You should be more careful.”

“I don’t know what I did wrong.”

“When do you ever?”

Stewart opens his mouth to speak but closes it again. He doesn’t want to make a scene.

“You know, maybe if you actually fed and ate properly he might have stayed? Instead of just sitting there smelling like a literal corpse. No wonder he left when you got too close.”

“You saw?”

“Who didn’t? You’re the talk of the room.”

Greg lied. Stewart shrunk back. That’s the last he wants.

“I was doing as I was asked.”

Greg scoffs.

“Get back to work.”

He shoves a tray into Stewart’s hand and shoulder bumps him as he leaves.

Stewart continues as he asked. Silently pouring drinks, only talking back when spoken to, the perfect model of high service, not only his work, but honours himself into the distraction. He can’t think about David. Not now. No, not now.

By the time the last patron leaves, Stewart is exhausted. He locks the door and turns to go and clean the club hall. He needs to keep himself busy. Needs not to think.

“Stewart.”

He freezes at Geoffrey’s voice. His heart pounds, he can feel the blood draining from his face. He turns to face him.

“You know I hate to do this. But you need to learn.”

He stays silent, eyes downcast.

“I did everything you asked. I don’t know what upset him.”

He escorts Stewart out of the room, down the hall, into darkness.

visionarypreist-david

The next time he's able to see Stewart is the following Tuesday afternoon when picking up the dogs for their walk. A silent sigh of relief when the assistant in question still is there to greet him at the door. Relief quickly washed away at the sight of him. Though Stewart's black eye is healed he looks worn down.

He feels right to have brought the gift then. David smiles and extends a hand which holds a Snickers bar he picked up from a shop on the way over.

Here. I wanted you to have this.

David smiles.

You know the whole "You're not you when you're hungry"?

He'd do anything to have the type of conversation they were starting to have at the nightclub or the park instead of the short terse interaction from that other time.

Stewart doesn't seem excited by it.

Please don't mistake this as an insult. I'm genuinely just sharing a snack, you know trying to keep your blood sugar up, but if chocolate isn't your thing...

He mentally plans to walk the dogs to the shop this time instead of just laps around the park. Stewart's excuse isn't very believable. Especially given how in rough shape he looks. Like he's about to keel over. Even worse than he was when he'd been short with him.

You sure?

visionarypriest-stewart

Just enough to get by, not enough to feel strong, or blush or even heal himself. That’s what he was given; small portions of blood each evening just to get him through the night.

The door to his room flies open, why he even has a door is beyond him at this point.

“Up. Now, come on you have work to do.”

Stewart hauls himself out of bed and it feels like every inch of his body is in pain. He doesn’t talk back, just nods as he goes to get ready for the day.

“Your companion from the other night is due to be here, let me guess you’re going to scrub up for him?”

Stewart doesn’t answer, must be Tuesday. Until now he was unsure what day it was, only venturing into the grounds of the estate in the afternoon, that’s when h e was let out. He wishes he could go and see Esmeralda, perhaps if he keeps being good he can go out again. At least he’s been allowed back in his room now. The other place was too dark, too cold, too lonely.

He makes his way through the large building, being careful to just keep to himself, keep his head down and work.

He opens the door to David, who’s standing there like nothing has happened. Well, almost, he’s smiling brightly, and extending his hand.

The gesture is genuine and kind, the corner of Stewart’s mouth twitches into a smile but he can’t get excited for it. How he would love it as a pick me up though.

“That’s so kind.”

He softly says and calls the dogs.

“I can’t take it though, tips I mean, we’re not allowed to accept them.”

The three large dogs sit stoically. Stewart looks down to see that Rex is standing next to him, not afraid, not scared, but something else. Almost like he’s concerned. Careful not to hurt Stewart.

“Yeah…yeah…. It’s nothing, just need to…not that the Chiba’s isn’t appropriated, I just can’t have those anymore.”

He props himself up on the doorframe. He almost perks up at the idea of David coming to the club again. But what if he can’t be good for him?

He jumps as Geoffrey seems to come from nowhere, he has a knack for that.

“Stewart will be working, I’ll make sure he’s well fed for the night shift, don’t worry. Stand up straight please.”

Stewart obeys and forces himself to stand.

“It’s not your fault, I would have been working anyway.”

He really wishes he could hold on to something.

“Yeah, I’m…the floors not spinning anymore, it’s just…the dogs…”

He steps forward to hand David the leads but loses balance as he falls and lands onto David’s chest, being caught just at the last moment.

visionarypreist-david

I don't think it counts as a tip in this context.

They're back to their normal, David as the employee Stewart giving him the dogs and the cash at the end. Plus though he can eat chocolate in his human form it doesn't bring the same appeal because his wolf side rejects the toxin.

But I was planning to visit you at the club again. Not tonight since you're sick obviously.

When Geoffrey pops in, likely overhearing what he'd said, even David stiffens a bit by his sudden interruption. Just as quickly as he passed by he left and he can't help but guiltily look at Stewart.

Sorry. I didn't mean to get you in trouble or make you work tonight. No wonder you wanted to make your schedule if I woke up feeling like death I'd stay in bed.

He reaches his hand out for the leads but gets an armful of Stewart himself instead. Pulling him in securely.

Woah!

The smaller man isn't unconscious but his eyes are unfocused even behind his frames, and he weighs nothing. He's concerningly weak as David doesn't even feel a heartbeat or a puff of breath against him. Not a good sign.

He was also cold. Very cold, but not shivering. David tries to press as much warmth as possible into him by sheer force of will.

After a minute Stewart goes even more limp pushing more of his body weight into David, making him take a step back.

I got you. I got you. I got you. Don't worry.

His protectiveness. The need to care. The need to make sure all in the pack are healthy bash right up against the returning sense that Stewart is s threat. But he's so not threatening right now.

Stewart mutters something he can't make out. Buries his head against his neck and pulls back with a snap something seemingly jolting him back to if not normal at least enough to stand.

Yeah you definitely need to eat something.

He forces the candy bar into Stewart's hand and take the dogs leads. The first time he was here the dogs were malnourished and injured, yet now they're fine and Stewart is the one getting injuries and starving.

I have the dogs now you can rest.

David states firmly. Noticing how even Rex isnt bothering Stewart anymore. This whole place is so strange.

He leaves. Now he has to go to the nightclub tonight at least to just be there for Stewart. Maybe he's been overworked. If he shows up again will Stewart be tasked with just him. That would be good. He'll stay all night and give him an easy time.

He imagines it. Laying down on the sofa and holding Stewart against him. Protecting him from the world. Keep him close and fed and warm and happy. And away from all those vampires at the-

David pauses in his tracks.

The dogs look up at him curiously.

Someone must have drank from Stewart. Taken too much. Like Nick had with Jay but more malicious, more careless, more than just a little too far, and just abandoned him.

He didn't want to acknowledge it before, but he had smelled the scent of vampire on Stewart. And that explained it.

visionarypriest-stewart

“…’M sorry I don’t know what…”

That shouldn’t have happened. Why would that happen if everything stopped spinning? Then again, maybe that’s what happens when everything’s stopped spinning.

At least whatever he’s landed on is relatively soft, and warm, so warm too. He should probably tell David he’s okay. He’ll open his eyes in a minute, but for now, this is just too comfortable.

It feels like he’s being held closer too, help up and pulled close. He drifts towards the sensation. He isn’t sure if he’s speaking out loud or not, but he tries to tell David he’s okay.

“Mmmmmmm”

He doesn’t realise he’s mumbling against David’s chest. But he does hear David telling him that he’s got him and he doesn’t have to worry. Or maybe he’s talking to Rex? Rex has been more worried these days.

It wasn’t great before, but at least. Score he could go out and hunt more regularly, go and see his friends. Were they friends? Or did they just take him in? Pity him? He hopes they’re okay.

He lets himself be held, the sounds of Rex tip-tapping around his feet remind him he’s not at Esmeralda’s. So who’s? It doesn’t matter who it is , they’re warm. He’s fallen into someone warm. Unlike falling onto the floor, this was far less painful.

He breathes in deeply through his nose. Smells so good, feels so nice. Probably tastes nice too. Smells like…smells like…

Oh shit!

It’s enough to bring him around as David props him up. He takes the chocolate bar with a bashful thank you.

“Yeah…I should eat…I should…I’m sorry..”

He looks at the dogs.

“I’m glad they like you. It’s okay if they don’t like me…I…I’ll let you go…I’ll see you later.”

He heads inside and loos around. Thankfully, this time, he wasn’t being watched. He makes sure to find some sort of sustenance. Even if he has to beg for it again.

visionarypreist-david

It's on David's mind the whole walk. Was it consensual, like Jay's interactions with vampires or was it an attack? There were vampires in the area, he knew so much from when he'd been bleeding.

Was he out alone? Were you not there to protect him?

He asks the dogs, looking to Rex in particular. The aggressive dog which no longer had an interest in trying to eat Stewart it seemed.

He's not accusing them. More himself.

There's so many intrusive questions he wants to ask Stewart about the situation, but knows he can't. He pets one of the hunting dogs.

Have you been taking food off his plate when he's not looking.

He coos in that slightly uptick voice you talk to dogs in. Trying to convince him that's all it is. A missed meal or two and some low blood sugar. Something that Stewart could bounce back from with a little care. Not a traumatizing vampire attack... Maybe his senses were playing tricks on him?

Must be an odd time in the moon cycle.

Am I overstepping?

He asks the dogs again.

Sure they hung out at the park, but that was an acquaintanceship at best, just because you ran into someone you knew. He only spoke to him on the porch because he walks their talks. He only say with him at the club because he was instructed to.

Hopefully he wasn't weirding the guy out.

visionarypriest-stewart

Hades walks stoically beside David, while the setters walks a little ahead, but otherwise perfectly. Rex trots by David’s legs as he keeps up pace with the larger dogs.

Hades’ ears twitch and turn as David speaks, but otherwise he has no reaction. Pluto and Orcus don’t really react either. Rex however whines softly. And circles around David’s legs. He waits until David finds a bench and nudges the now healed area where the scratch was on David’s legs.

Hades sits and for a moment it looks like he rolls his eyes snootily at the very idea of stealing from the plate.

The little dog, wild in his own way, unable to be swayed by any charm from his masters, seemed to understand that his arch enemy, for reasons currently unknown to David, is not faring well.

Rex knows exactly what his former rival needs. But how does he convey that to his current overseer? He nudges David’s legs again with his nose. He can’t even reach Stewart’s plate.

He then finds himself being plonked on to David’s lap. Maybe he hurt the scratch? Not what he intended. He looks at David, as though he’s willing for him to understand. For a human type creature who is so close to being canine, Rex found it frustrating they would t communicate other than gesture and looks.

He resigns himself and licks David’s nose instead.

By the time they get back to the house, Rex is almost back to his normal self. The door is opened and he seems to calm down again, sensing that Stewart was still hurt.

“Hey…I’ve managed to…stomach a little something and get some rest. I should be fine by tonight…”

Stewart sheepishly smiles at David.

“Sorry about earlier…thank you though.”

He still holds himself awkwardly, propping himself up a bit on the doorframe, but otherwise genuinely a little better. He calls the dogs into the house and hands David the money.

Rex lingers, as though watching Stewart, but also watching David. He knows the dog walker is safe, he’s never been hurt by him…but something compels the small dog to watch for Stewart.

“Rex, it’s okay, you can play now.”

Rex stays. Stewart shakes his head as he looks back at David.

“So…any plans before coming out tonight?”

visionarypreist-david

That's great! You're looking better already.

The color seemed to come back to Stewart's face a bit and his eyes were brighter.

Oh don't mention it.

He brushes it off. No big deal. Nothing to apologize or thank. Rather he catch him than Stewart smack himself into the pavement.

David raises and eyebrow at Rex. How he's not followed the other dogs. Just stood between them with big observant eyes.

Nothing too exciting, another gig and then extra workouts to do. Full moon is next week and all, so I've gotta train outside in preparation for the hunt.

He explains. Already feeling the extra energy at the thought of it. It's not only training but also an outlet for this growing excitability. Any physical activity would help... He glances away from Stewart before this thoughts drift there.

If you hear people talk of some big scary man in the woods minding his own business, it's probably me.

David jokes. Trying not to make it sound like he's showing off with how much he works out. Purposely not giving details of his lifts or his speed.

He rubs the back of his neck sheepishly.

I'll obviously shower and change before tonight though. I wont just waltz in sweaty with leaves in my hair.

Stop talking. Stop talking. Stop talking.

See you tonight.

visionarypriest-stewart

“He gets his cast off next week. Well spotted by the way.”

He looks down as Rex lays next to Stewart’s feet and takes the opportunity to nibble his shoe laces. This time it’s Stewart who raises an eyebrow. This was half way back to being normal, but he’s not used to Rex being so gentle. He looks back to David with a bewildered expression.

The little dog has certainly changed. He can’t help but be intrigued by the idea of David working out, the mental image comes flooding in almost too fast.

“Wow…I mean, that’s cool, I mean, it’s great that you take all of that to the woods, that’s really some dedication.”

‘Smooth.’

Stewart muses, seeing David in the woods would certainly be a sight. All he’s seen are animals and that one huge wolf.

Of all the times he’s gone hunting for himself, day or night, he can’t honestly say he’s seen David training. Shame really.

“See if you hadn’t said that I’d be imagining you live great big logs or something…not that I’m imagining you, you know what I mean…”

How is this worse than when they were bickering? He chuckles also sheepish as he glances at David’s bicep as he places his hand at the back of his neck.

Sweaty with leaves in his hair, Stewart would t complain.

‘Or maybe you could…’

“Ummm. Yeah…”

He blinks as he tries focus. But something in him wants to get closer to David, wants to help him after the workout…there’s that new feeling again.

“I’ll look forward to it. Seeing you later I mean…I…yeah. I’ll let you go…have a great afternoon.”

Well that was awkward. He bids David a final smile before gently shaking Rex off of his shoe.

He turns to get on with his day, hoping the evening would come quickly. As he works he gets a call into Geoffrey’s office. A part of him swears he can feel the phantom rapid beating of his heartbeat as he nervously makes his way to up the stairs and around the winding corners. He knocks on the door.

“Come in.”

He stands quietly, hands clasped behind his back as he looks at Geoffrey Rolland, he glances to the side to see Greg stood with him.

This can’t be good. He waits to be addressed.

“Though perhaps a bit clumsy, you seem to be getting on well with David.”

Stewart looks between them and nods.

“Good, and he is attending tonight?”

“Yes.”

“Does he know what you are?”

Stewart presses his lips together in thought.

“I’m not sure.”

He answers honestly.

“Doesn’t matter. Tonight, you will attend to him and only him, just as you did last time. If he asks you to sit, you obey. If he asks for food and drink you get it for him. Anything he wants from you you will provide it for him. If he wants to fu-…”

“I understand.”

Greg snorts but composes himself.

“Good. You see, he will be a great ally to me. Do not make an enemy of him.”

“Yes Lord Roland.”

Geoffrey inclines his head.

“Do not make me have to teach you yet another lesson.”

Stewart nods.

“You may have the afternoon to do as you please. I suggest you get some form of sustenance though, you’re going to need it.”

“Thank you.”

As soon as he’s dismissed he makes his way down the stairs and outside. He needs food, he needs to be strong for night, he can’t go fainting on David again. He thinks of where he could go.

The woods.

And maybe he’ll be there. Maybe he could bump into him. No that would be creepy. But…

He’s sure he’ll think of something. He needs food first. He makes his way off the beaten track to try and find something to feed from away from prying eyes.

Once’s he’s fed he goes to make his way to the park. Under his tree, but the pull to the woods is too strong. He looks around to make sure no one is watching and turns into a small creature. He squeaks as he scurries along, making his way through the undergrowth to search through the wood. Just on the off chance David may be there.

visionarypreist-david

After finishing up the next walk David heads into the woods. His usual transformation backpack now full with things he'll need to train.

Setting down in a clearing near the stream he unfolds the abnormally shaped, large, water tight weight bag. An ingenious invention he found online one day that's perfect for his particular sorts of carries. Weights nothing when emptied but a ton when full and the water sloshes around making the weight distribution change and get uneven. Much more realistic to carrying something living or dead than a standard even metal weight.

He dunks the weight into the stream letting it fill up though the open plug. Waiting for it to fill he has nothing to do but think. Specifically he's stuck on how different Stewart is in the few weeks he's known him. Gone from the upright offended assistant who balked at his pointing out the dogs poor condition to thanking him for recognizing it. Now if that's all it was it'd be a good thing but there were other things too. He grew more timid, more exhausted, he had that bruise on his face.

Why had he gotten worse? Coincidence? Was it because of him being around? Was it because he insisted the dogs get better taken care of?

Once the weight was full enough, not completely so the water has room to move, David lifts it out with proper form. Pulling against the water trying to sink it to the bottom, and the current trying to whisk it away.

But every action has an equal and opposite reaction. The amount of force he took to pull it out is the amount of force it flings at him to push him back, which isn't usually an issue, except when you're too lost in thought to remember to close it.

As he lays on his back with the weight on his chest, getting soaked with water he quickly replaces the stopper, and simply laughs about that being just his luck. At least he's taking a shower before tonight.

He looks over while still laying in the grass, catching his breath, when he notices a small rodent only a few feet away. It's still. Surveying him. David's just glad it's not tried to bite him already.

If a werewolf falls in the forest and only a rat is around to witness... I guess that makes it actually less embarrassing.

David laughs again. Hauling himself up, and notices the rat or mouse or whatever it is doesn't scurry away.

Wow you've got like zero survival instinct.

Takes gym rat to a whole new meaning that he's talking to a mouse during his workout. But it's kind of intriguing how the little creature just stares at him. It knows he's there, it's watching him, but is that usually what these sorts of animals do?

Refilling the weight he realizes his shirt is now soaked and clinging. Not like the rat mouse minds, probably.

You're my spotter now, huh.

David pulls the weight bag up onto his shoulders.

I'm going to go run around there and back. I guess keep up or time me.

He jokes.

Damn how lonely is?

visionarypriest-stewart

He sniffs his way through the forest, being careful not to make too much noise. It was good to be out on the open air again. Having that sense of freedom. He supposes if he should turn back, go and pay Anna, Esmeralda and Ybobb a visit. But something was drawing him further into the woods.

What could have possibly changed in three weeks? When he first met David he was course, grumpy, judgy even! Not to mention stubborn! And who thinks a servant owns the dogs?

He sighed, despite him being a mouse as he walked through the leaf litter. Then, how many people come to a vampire’s estate to walk the dogs? Who was he to know?

Maybe then, maybe it wasn’t because he was a vampire that he left so abruptly. If he could easily see how the dogs were treated, surely he knew what Stewart was?

He finds David by a steam and stops to hide behind a rock. He slowly comes out when he thinks David can’t see him. He wasn’t expecting this. Not to a guy see him there, and wow he really is that strong. No wonder he so easily caught him.

Then David’s covered in water and the mouse finds himself staring. Only his nose twitches from time to time.

He doesn’t realise he’s being looked at as he so lost in his thought. This was the true test, would David kill something so small? Stewart finds himself frozen in fear.

He relaxes though when David just continues to work out. He’s looks up as David stands and watches him run off. He stays in the same place and keeps an eye on the gym bag. In his head, he begins to count how long it takes for David to get back.

Stewart looks around and climbs up in a Little Rock as he counts and waits for David return. He stops himself from cheering and waving his paws in the air, he just stands there, seeing David has got back in good time.

visionarypreist-david

David crouches down with a grunt noticing the little rodent moved while he was gone, but didn't leave. Hes slightly out of breath as he talks to his new workout buddy.

You stuck around.

He smiles.

I can tell you're the same one cause you're a distinctly tiny thing, and your brown is exactly his hair color.

Standing back up he goes off to run again. Every time David comes back be sees the same little mouse. It stands there watching him as he does sets of sit-ups and pushups. It watches him as he chucks large fall treen branches into a pile. It watches him as he empties the weight and folds it back into his bag.

Well this has been fun. A little strange to have an audience...

He stands to leave and debates taking the rodent with him. Surely this thing will die by tomorrow if it just sit idly next to clear large predator animals. Maybe David being there protected it from some other creature but with him gone. He gives a silent goodbye and rest in peace, not conveying to the rat what he knows it's fate will be.

At home David showers, changes, grooms, and tries to look presentable. His hair grows in so much faster the close to transformation he has to trim his beard again despite doing so this morning. He's wearing jeans and another one of his wolf themed tshirts. A grey one with a wolf outlined by the moon on it.

This time he takes the bus to the neighborhood like he usually does for dog walking and walks the rest of the way to the club. Not as big an entrance as last time now that it's his second and without Jay. But the very fact he is without Jay does cause a bit more whispers.

It doesn't take long before he spots Stewart, or more accurately Stewart spots him.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart, well, the mouse watches with intent. To anyone else it would look odd, a mouse unafraid of a human, let alone a werewolf no less, standing, seemingly observing the man trying to work out.

Experts would say it was sick or in its last legs, practically on its last legs if it weren’t running, but it just kept watching the man.

‘His hair…is he talking about my hair? Surely he doesn’t know it’s me…’

The mouse inclines his head as he watches David leave. He looks sad, he’s unsure why. He continues to watch him go until he’s out of sight and turns to leave. He doesn’t transform back because he could grow to full height and David would spot him, so instead he just goes back through the forest until he’s at the outskirts.

He turns back when he’s sure no one is there to watch and heads back to the estate. He goes inside and Rex immediately gives him excited attention. Likely because he can smell that the rat was there.

Stewart rolls his eyes and makes his way by him, being careful not to trip. He goes to shower and get ready for the evening.

He wears a clean crisp shirt and trousers and those damn awful shoes that pinch his feet. He fixes his glasses to the best of his ability and makes sure his hair isn’t over his eyes.

The shift starts normally once Geoffrey has spoken to him, again. He pours the wine, he refills glasses, he attends to everyone.

He briefly pauses to look over just as David’s walking in. He’s about to go over when Greg intercepts.

“Good evening David. Good to see you again, now Geoffrey has organised a private booth at the back, still in the throes of the fun, if you will, but just with a little more security. And it’s also near the rooms at the back too should you need them.”

Satisfied with Stewart’s introduction, Greg leaves them to it.

He leads David over to Stewart, who shuts his mouth to stop himself from gasping at how well David had scrubbed up, a little bit of him wished he were back in the forest though.

“Please let me know if you’re ready for a drink or anything. I’m once again here for you,and you alone.”

Stewart waits for David to sit.

“It’s good to see you again.”

visionarypreist-david

Ah, so that's what this was. Sequester the werewolf away from the vampires. Private booth secure rooms. Sure they felt special but he could now sense what this was. Not s first day VIP treatment, but a deliberate thing.

Still despite that David smiles broadly. The one benefit was he was again Stewart's only focus. Something about it calmed his possessive side in a way he never usually had issues with. Not like he required service staff to prioritize him or anything, he rarely even went out. But having Stewart all to himself, that was something else.

The same to you. Good to see you're doing much better.

Or else he wouldn't have believed Stewart when he declined sharing food by saying he'd already eaten.

David sits down giving his sore legs a rest, and feels all the other effects of his fresh workout session. Luckily no twinge in his back due to proper form, but his shoulders feel tense and his arms ache even more when he tries to roll them to ease it.

Oh its fine. I'm great actually. The pain is proof of a successful training.

He tells Stewart when he starts to worry over him. Even if he did admittedly overdo it today. Who was he trying to impress? The mouse rat?

When Stewart offers ways to make him feel better he takes the simpler of the two options, a drink, because the other is far too indulgent to take him up on.

A massage, from Stewart. Would it be a simple sitting beside him in the booth and rubbing his shoulders, or a full laid down, shirt off, skin to skin. They'd probably need to use the aforementioned private rooms for that.

Yeah definitely not! Especially not this close to the full moon when his animal side is stronger, closer to overpowering human critical thinking. Not when Stewart is only doing it out of obligation.

A drink... Yes. I'll have something to drink. I'll take a rum and ginger beer.

He laughs when Stewart recognizes the cocktail.

A werewolf yeah. What can I say Ive got a brand to uphold.

It's a drink to loosen him up. Just hopefully not to the point where he does end up asking Stewart for more than should be required. He can't actually ask him for that massage even if it would feel so good.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Oh, maybe one day I can have Stewart all to myself?”

“He is your type, shame the other one got away, Dillon.”

“Hmm, good point, but maybe one day, I could have the newbie…”

The trio giggle as they pass.

Greg stands to the side, busying himself.

“I’m sorry to hear you’re sore, I take it the workout went well then?”

He stands relaxed, but attentive as he looks at David, how his hair and beard is groomed, how well put together he looks this evening.

“Can I offer anything to help? A message, a drink?”

Perhaps he should have waited for David to comment, as he seems taken aback by the other offer.

“A werewolf?”

There’s the hint of a smirk on his lips and he can’t help but fold his arms in amusement.

“Bit on the nose…”

He jokes and nods anyway.

“I’ll go and get you one.”

Stewart heads off to the bar to get the drink and Greg wanders by.

“You know, he’s very good with his hands…just throwing it out there. And there are the rooms at the back of course if you want privacy.”

Greg barely reacts, bar raising an eyebrow.

“I’m talking about a massage, I don’t know where your minds wondering.”

He goes to leave before Stewart comes back.

“However, that’s also not an uncommon practice.he grins and winks as he walks off.

Stewart comes back with a large cocktail.

“It’s quite strong, just so you know.”

‘Just like you…’

It was an obvious thing to say, most cocktails are, but he has an obligation to take care of David. Best to warm him.

“So…what do you do on a full moon?”

He should really wait to be spoken to in this setting, but he just could t help himself. Something was intriguing him, pulling him to learn more.

“On your own?”

He feels a little sad for him, obviously Jay had mentioned being there many moons ago, but what if recently? It could be dangerous.

visionarypreist-david

At Greg's words David is shocked. That weird emphasis he caught on "all your needs" he last time really had meant what it sounded like.

He thought Jay wasn't for places like this. Sex at an establishment with the employees had way too many consent implications.

What the hell are you implying?

There's an accusatory bite to his voice. Anger. A slight jealousy. Stewart had been forced to do things like that, here. But it's quickly embarrassingly doused when Greg mocks his leap in logic.

Oh I-

But then no he wasn't wrong. But now he doesn't know how to feel. The whiplash.

David takes more than a cursory sip of the drink once it's handed to him. Only way to face Stewart after the revelation he's had. No wonder it's called a werewolf because it's really good, and this might be one of the best ones he's tried.

I go to the woods and I hunt. Deer mostly, they're actually pretty good. And it helps keep their population down.

It feels so weird trying to explain it in his human form to a human. Yes he kills cute animals like deer, but Stewart's employer is a hunter as well so hopefully he won't judge. The killing of Bambi's mother is not the detail Stewart seemed to focus on.

Lone wolf through and through. Way easier to coordinate times. I haven't been kicked out a pack though if that's what you're worried about.

He grasps at straws for ways to justify why he's chosen to hunt alone to hide that fact that he had to. But at least he's never been shunned by a pack, that's usually the sign of someone not being good. He takes another drink, 1/2 the way through just the first one and already feeling it a little. Strange but not unwanted given the sensitive topic.

At least there's nobody else to share the kill with... Oh except for this one time last full moon with some vampire.

David takes another sip.

You were right this is strong.

Stewart looks at him with curious eyes, expression alone coaxing for more details to the story.

I don't have the whole thing clear since memories as a wolf are... fuzzy. I'd injured a deer in an attack, but before I could hit it again this vampire came up and was trying to steal it. Except then he wasn't... I somehow knew that he just wanted the blood I guess he said something and my human brain understood so then we just shared... Weird right werewolves and vampires are supposed to be natural enemies.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart notices how slickly the glass is draining, but doesn’t comment. It would be rude. He also doesn’t react to the killing of cute animals.

“Survival is survival. And deer in large quantities can be a menace. Difference between a cull and a massacre.”

He says casually and slips in to the booth, sitting a good, but comfortable distance away from David, should he need another drink. He’s glad it’s at the quieter area of the room.

He glances up to survey the grand hall, people and vampire alike and getting into the swing of things.

“Have you ever sought out your own pack?”

He surprised. Though…passionate about what he believes is right and wrong, David is a good man, a kind man. At least some camaraderie may at least be useful. The idea of David going out hunting alone, for some reason, worries Stewart. Why should he worry so much about him? He’s clearly coped this long before.

“There’s wolves out there. They could hurt you.”

He subconsciously rubs his arm where the scratch was. In all fairness was it was defending its catch.

He tilts his head as he listens, perhaps the average wolf knows not to go for a werewolf. Especially one as strong as David.

Stewart’s pleased to hear nothing really bothers him. But he glances over at the mention of a vampire.

Could it be someone he knows, someone from the club. There are dangerous and old vampires here, they would be able to tell what David was. What if it tried to hurt him?

It could t have been Geoffrey, David would have noticed. He glances around the room, clocking Dillon and Harding with Ethel. He’s unsure what Ethel is, but whatever she is, she feeds.

He puts the thought from his mind as he snaps his head back to David, eyes wide at the description. It’s all too familiar.

“I…”

He can’t lie to him, it would be worse if he lied.

“Was it a buck? Older and frightened. Did the vampire try to soothe it before it saw you?”

He averts his gaze as David answers.

“Was it the Monday night before you walked the dogs?”

He dares to glance back. He scratches his face to self soothing, and reminds himself to sit up straight. He tentatively rolls up the sleeve on his shirt to show the scratch, among some new yellowish green bruising.

“Far too big to be Hades. A large wolf did that to me fighting for his kill.”

visionarypreist-david

Yeah... Older, scared, I can't really say what the vampire was doing to it though. How'd you-?

But before he can asks Stewart offers another spot on detail. It was that Monday.

I didn't realize you'd seen that.

What would have happened if the deer wasn't such an easy target. Would the Vampire have gone after Stewart? Had he gone after Stewart. David regrets not attacking harder in order to protect him.

Then he notices the scratch on Stewart's arm. The same one he'd noticed that Tuesday, but hadnt been firing on all cylinders enough to realize it. Suddenly it clicks.

You're the vampire? You're a vampire!

I did that? I did that! I hurt him. Hurt Stewart. But Stewart wasn't a defenseless human he was a vampire.

Except the revelation actually makes him distrust him less, because suddenly it explains why. That weird conflicting feeling was because his wolf side could sense that Stewart was a vampire but he didn't. So it was just hate with no rhyme or reason.

He finishes off the drink, and Stewart offers to grab him another and he simply nods. Maybe they both need a moment to themselves after realizing their first impression hadn't been truly their first.

When he returns David realizes he probably should eat something as this much drink without food isn't a god combination. But he doesn't want to ask any more of Stewart. Not when this is supposed to be easy. Supposed to be nice for him because he's sick and tired and hurt. He hurt him.

I'm sorry. And the fact I even blamed it on you, thinking the dogs fought back mistreatment. When you're actually really good to them.

Then he laughs, a tad drunkenly.

How did I not notice before? You're... And I guess Lord Rolland and that other guy are too.

He places his new drink down after having some and looks over at Stewart noticing how far away he's sat. That's the opposite of what he wants.

No no no this is great actually. It makes sense now why I left kinda weird about you... Why I saw you as a threat when no offense you're not really.

Except was he a threat now? A well fed vampire can overpower a werewolf, but David has previously taken him down. Stewart bares the mark to prove it. Well that's because he's clearly not a well fed vampire.

David moves closer, slowly, carefully, not wanting to scare him. Show him it's all okay between them.

Guess I feel a bit stupid now for offering you candy, or other regular foods. When you said you were hungry you'd meant...

It need not be said.

visionarypriest-stewart

“I was there. It was me.”

Stewart says softly, silently bracing for what reaction this might cause. Could this be why he was so quick to anger? So quick not to trust him? But then Stewart found that even before the accusations there was an air to David that he just couldn’t pinpoint. This was it.

He nods and goes to get David’s order, he’s surprised David isn’t hungry. Especially after that workout, but that inside secret that Stewart will keep close to his chest. He rolls his sleeve back down and ensures that he looks presentable.

‘I’m warning you, if you’ve upset him…’

He hears in his head as he orders another drink for David with a chaser of ice cold water. Just in case. When he gets back, he places the drinks on the table and sits neatly on the soft leather seat.

“Please don’t be sorry you didn’t know. It was your kill, I shouldn’t have…we were only trying to survive.”

His words are honest. He nods softly.

“Lord Rolland and Greg are stronger than I am, probably masked the sent.”

He supposes, but let’s put a small laugh.

“I’m not really one for fighting or dominance. Unlike certain other vampires…Defence, perhaps, but, yeah you’re not wrong.”

He doesn’t move away as David moves closer. Nor does his flinch or react. His blue eyes just turn to meet David’s. He could have sworn they were brown before, but here, as he looks at him, there’s an amber wolfish tint to them. It makes Stewart blush before he smiles broadly.

He can smell him now, not the blood coursing through his veins but him. All of him, a mixture of cologne and shower gel.

“I thought it was sweet of you actually. Very kind. I just didn’t want to seem rude by rejecting it.”

His shoulders drop as he relaxes slightly.

“I should apologise too. I didn’t mean to be sharp the other day. I hadn’t eaten in a very long tome.And your leg was cut and I didn’t want to attack you. I didn’t want to be that monster…I was just trying to hold back.”

It was nice to clear the air. It was even better to be sitting this close to David without David getting up and leaving.

“Speaking of, You sure I can’t get you some food? Anything you desire, you can have it.”

He pushes his glasses up and brushes the hair from his face.

visionarypreist-david

Not one for dominance Stewart has said. Well that's fine with him. Perfect even... He now understands what Stewart felt trying to hold back. Not attack. Not that he wants to attack Stewart in the violent sense.

He stares into his eyes, a bright intelligent blue, they must only go that grey when he's not fed. David leans over Stewart slightly, enough distance for him to escape or even pull back but enough coverage to show him how he'll protect him.

It's the same reason I had to leave all the sudden. I was holding back from...

Why is everything more heightened, was it just Stewart being here or something else effecting him. He feels simultaneously sedated from drunkenness and emboldened and energetic. His eyes rove over Stewart.

Anything I desire.

But he's no monster.

He wants to see Stewart safe and healthy. He wants the living glow to remain in his cheeks, the blue to never dull from his eyes, he wants him to be whole and unscathed. More than he wants him intimately.

David undoes the top 3 buttons of his shirt with one hand, pushing the fabric to the side and exposing his neck.

I desire to actually offer you something of substance. Make up for my oversight. You don't have to hold back now.

He feels so warm. This feels so right.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Are you seeing this?”

“Yes.”

“This is your plan?”

“Somewhat.”

“And what if he falls for the wolf.”

“So what if he does?”

Greg takes a long drink from his champagne flute and raises an eyebrow.

“You make a big deal of Stewart being yours.”

“He is mine.”

“So why are you allowing him to make a move on him, touch him freely? I had to wait and wait before I could even get a bite!”

“Jealousy is not a good look on you.”

Greg huffs and looks over.

“He’s offering his blood to him.”

“Then everything is going to plan.”

“And that plan is?”

“To add to my collection. Both of them mine, in both different ways. Both sought after. Just give it time.”

On the other side of the room far away from the music and the noise; Stewart doesn’t move away as David gets closer, in fact he’s compelled to move a little closer himself. David is soft, but firm, strong, but safe.

‘Me?’

What could David possibly see in him, he aged him three weeks ago. His jaw drops and his eyes widen as David exposes his neck to him.

A soft sound collects at the back of Stewart’s throat. He’s so tempted, so incredibly tempted.

“I…”

His voice trembles, it’s a mixture of nerves and fear. He doesn’t want to get into trouble. He glances over David’s shoulder and get a dismissive wave of an approval from Geoffrey.

“I’ve never fed from…a human…or werewolf…”

He doesn’t want to upset him.

“It’s just…it’s not that I don’t want to.”

He finds himself telling the truth, he can’t lie to David.

“You’re…not sober. I don’t want to cross boundaries.”

Big, blue eyes look into David’s.

“I’m worried about…I want to be sure you can consent to this.”

visionarypreist-david

I've never been fed from.

He admits. So this will be a first time for both of them. They'll learn together. No reason for Stewart to overthink it or worry.

But then the words "I don't want to" hit his ears and David stops. He shouldn't be pressuring him like this. Should he? It is for Stewart's benefit. But he doesn't want to. He doesn't want his blood. Not when it's offered, not when he was cut, does his blood taste bad? Are they not close enough, or are they too close?

David does pull back nodding slowly as the reasons make sense. Even if he does want to get on the record.

I'm not.... im.... Two drinks isn't enough to get me drunk.

Unless maybe it's some fancy rum that's way stronger, or something else. Something they added not knowing how it'd affect a werewolf.

David leans back on the sofa short collar still open. He leans his head back and closes his eyes trying to get his bearings.

Don't know what came over me.

It's half a lie. He kinda does know. A draw, a need, an instinct, and no inhibitions.

If you want you can have my blood some other time... You've drank from animals before I know so I could even-

He laughs

I could turn into a wolf if you preferred.

David opens his eyes and looks over to Stewart with a smiles spread across his expression. Just enjoying the view. How did Stewart not see he was offering his blood for selfish reasons. Knowing Stewart was fun to talk to when he was lively and well fed. He even admitted it.

Despite pulling away to show he wouldn't force his blood on him anymore David can't help but reach for Stewart's hand. Moving in closer to his side again.

visionarypriest-stewart

“Another time. Sounds good.”

Stewart agrees softly. He could take a bite now , David did seem very keen and it was only two drinks, but, surely someone as big and strong as David could handle his drink?

He watches David as he takes a moment to gather himself. How his back is exploded, how his Adams’s apple bobs as he speaks. How he could just reach over, so slowly and brush the hair from David’s eyes. Place a hand on his cheek and maybe kiss him. Taste him in another way.

But instead he just sits, waiting for David to make a move, or ask for anything. It feels odd, sat next to a client of Geoffrey’s. Not stood to attention in those damn painful shoes. Not running around after everyone and making sure everyone is having a good night. Hell, he’s surprised he’s not been forced to his knees by this point.

But David wasn’t like that. And for one night perhaps he could allow himself to enjoy this company with David. He’d even get on his knees freely for him.

Greg walks past with Dillon and Harding.

“Well, you haven’t heard it from me but even though it’s been several hundred years, they’re being back the idea of a whipping boy…”

Stewart freezes and avoids all eye contact as he tries to focus on David.

“Why didn’t I think of that earlier?”

Once they pass Stewart directs his attention to David.

He meets David’s eyes and laughs with him.

“I’m sure when it comes, the time will be right. But it’s okay, you don’t have to do anything other than be you.”

He looks down at his hand as David moves closer. He doesn’t pull back or move away. For a moment, he forgets the rest of the world, it’s just him and David. He moves closer in return. How he wants to curl into David’s side, rest his head on his chest.

It’s just them and no one can hurt him now. He can almost see is pan out as he looks at David, everything in a split second, no more dark and cold nights on cobblestone floors, no more guessing what he’s done wrong to deserve a ‘correction.’

“So…”

He begins, but he finds his other arm as been forcefully yanked up while he remains seated. Adrunken Dillon is looking at the vein, thirsting.

“If you’re too full, I can help with that. No need to waste a good feed just because you have too much already.”

Stewart fumbles on a response.

“I…”

“It won’t take long and then he’s all yours.”

visionarypreist-david

David feels Stewart's hand ripped from his before his eyes realize what they're watching. Some other vampire has taken Stewart from him and is also threatening to drink the blood he'd just offered only to him. None of this is going to be allowed to happen.

Immediately he stands. Locked in to the threat that just approached. He grabs the arm of the vampire that's holding Stewart knowing that if he forcefully tries to yank him back that would only hurt Stewart more.

What do you think you're doing?

He growls, the adversary doesn't seem to mind.

Let him go.

His grips tightens on the other man's arm as a threat.

Before I tear you apart until all that left is unrecognizable mound flesh and blood. That will be what you lot can feast upon. Not me. And not through hurting him.

David bears his teeth at the vampire as he growls who shows his fangs in return. When the vampire dives in for a bite at him David takes the moment he's distracted, keen senses noticing he's letting loose on Stewart, to pull him back. He steps away as he pulls Stewart to his chest.

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart gasps. It all happens so quickly. Before he’s able to talk Dillon out of anything David’s there.

David’s there.

Protecting him, standing up for him, defending him. He berates himself for not acting faster. This night was supposed to be for David’s to make him feel good.

“You will get your filthy hand off of me if you know what’s good for you.”

Dillon sneers, showing his fangs as David growls at him. Now Stewart is caught between a barrage of teeth and threats. He’s seen David annoyed before, but this, well this frightened him. Not David per se, but what David could potentially do. He hopes to never get on his bad side.

Before he can react he’s pulled closer to David the pain in his arm now easing. He looks down at it and sees that Dillon was holding on so tightly he was digging his large talon like nails into him.

“He’s not yours either!”

Dillon spits as he lunges forward. He holds his hand high, ready to swipe at either of them. In a blink, a tall figure arrives behind Dillon. Suddenly a strong arm takes his hand and he’s unable to move closer to David and Stewart. Calmly, Geoffrey addresses them.

“David, I really must send my sincerest apologies. I will have this matter dealt with personally. Please give me a moment.”

He strong arms Dillon and frog marches him down the hall.

Stewart watches them go, slowly, the panicked rise and fall of his chest slows down, how long at he been hyperventilating? Was he shaking too? He’s leaning fully into David’s embrace, he turns in David’s arms, big, blue, slightly damp eyes look at him.

“I’m…so sorry. Are you alright? Can I get you anything?”

He sits up, ignoring his arm, and looks David over.

“He didn’t hurt you did he?”

Down the hall Geoffrey let’s go if Dillon.

“Well?”

“Worked like a charm. It definitely brought them closer. Literally or otherwise. He’s strong, the werewolf. He’ll be a great ally to you should you convince him.”

“I have a few ideas how, should I need to you a certain…bargaining chip. Thank you for you help old chap.”

“Not at all.”

“I’ll send your payment to you, best lie low for a while, give him time to cool off.”

Dillon smiles and shakes Geoffrey’s hand.

“See you in a fortnight.”

Geoffrey returns, personally delivering drinks to David.

“I can assure you, that won’t happen again.”

He looks at Stewart.

“Are you quite alright?”

Stewart nods.

“Yes, thank you Lord Rolland.”

“Good.”

He leaves them, leaving Stewart silently confused. He gingerly looks at David.

“You were very brave, I appreciate what you did.”

visionarypreist-david

Its almost as if this other vampire can read his thoughts. Calls him out on his possessiveness while David's internal monologue mirrors that from the day he and Stewart met.

Mine.

He's thinking. Stewart is his to cherish. To protect. David lifts his arm to block Stewart from the impending attack, putting himself in a more exposed position but that doesn't matter.

The swipe never comes as Geoffrey steps in to remove the unruly patron. Without the immediate danger his focus can be solely on Stewart. The smaller man on the verge of tears. While David's still coming down from the adrenaline, Stewart is asking him questions, worrying about him.

That's- That's my line.

He dodges, turning the concern back onto Stewart, who won't answer till his are answered first.

I'm alright. He didn't hurt me.

And there's only one thing he wants to request.

Stewart... Can I hug you?

But before he can hold him in his embrace again Geoffrey returns with a drink and an apology. Finally then does Stewart confirm he's okay. David smiles.

Thanks, but it really wasn't bravery. I shouldn't have gotten us into the situation anyway.

He starts to try and do up the buttons of his shirt to close the collar, not attract any more unwanted and dangerous attention, they could go somewhere else. The park again perhaps. He struggles with the buttons, not realizing his claws partially extended and are slowly retracting due to the fight. Maybe it's a good thing then that he didn't hug Stewart while in this state.

He doesn't even have to ask before Stewart's hands are on his shirt, one bracing against his shoulder the other making delicate work of the closure. His fingers are cold where they brush against his skin, but it brings heat there all at once. They're so damn close. He wants Stewart to be undoing the buttons not helping him redo them.

Do you want to leave... Here... Together?

He forgets for a moment Stewart is only at work. Forgets for a moment how that sounds.

Sorry not like- not like that I just mean-

David makes eye contact with Stewart. Sees some conflicting emotion in his gaze. Feels the loss as Stewart's hands pull back either in shock or done with their task he can't tell he just wants them to return.

Nevermind. I- I didn't mean to imply it wasn't safe here. I trust his word that this won't happen again.

visionarypriest-stewart

A hug. How he would crave to be held in David’s arms right now, not just from being pulled back from harms way, but being kept safe. And just as he was about to answer, he can’t. He stays polite, he thanks his boss and us to think a million miles a minute to make sure he’s doing the right thing.

“You didn’t put us in that situation they…someone of them just get like that some times. They either drink too much or lose control and they end up getting violent if they can’t have their own way.”

He shrugs a little, as though that’s completely normal. He does glance down at his arm, to where Dillon held on so tightly, it hurt a little, pearled the skin, but doesn’t bleed.

He doesn’t think about the implications, not where if he ran his mouth he could get into more trouble. But once more he’s compelled to speak freely with David.

He’s sat back a little from David now, he tries to work out if he should stand to attention, do his job properly, or stay sat with David. He clocks the claws, eyes widening, not with fear, with interest, and slight awe. He can’t watch David thimble for much longer.

He diligently shuffles forward and places his nimble, dexterous fingers between David’s and starts to help with the buttons. Carefully, so gently he does them up, catching David’s eye as he does. His jaw drops slightly, he’d live to leave here with David. That sounds wonderful.

But when David backtracks, Stewart fixes his face. He can’t leave, not now, as much as Geoffrey is being nice, nice isn’t normal, a part of Stewart knows it’s probably a trick. He hopes he’s proven wrong.

He places his hands on his lap and looks up to David again.

“Don’t be sorry, it’s okay.”

He looks around to see where his boss was, to see where Greg was, better to ask maybe? But what if they follow him? What if he just left and came back in the morning? He knows he can’t stay away forever.

But there are spare rooms here, nice rooms, nicer than his…perhaps David could stay? But would that be safe? He chooses his words carefully.

“What Lord Rolland says goes.”

He bites his bottom lip.

“I would love to go, but i reside here, mostly, and i have work first thing in the morning…the dogs…but…I…I would love for you to stay a little longer, perhaps I can persuade a room for you to stay in? It might be safe for you to stay? Especially with a rogue angry vampire outside…I…I guess what I’m saying is, I would hate it if you got hurt…”

He looks around again.

“If…”

Why is he feeling so bashful?

“If that hug is still going…you don’t have to though..I…yeah…”

He shrugs one shoulder, and glances away, playing it off as cool as possible.

visionarypreist-david

David readily agrees to both, opening his arms and moving towards Stewart to hug him. It just felt so right. And not for his own safety but to be around for Stewart he does think staying maybe the right option too. It could also be he's a little on the opposite end of sober and the idea of fall asleep here, Stewart in his arms, or staggering back and forcing himself awake on the bus.

I'll help you with the dogs in the morning.... Don't worry about....

It. Them. Me. All of the above. Words were hard. David laughed as the particularly funny thought came to mind and he lacked the filter to stop from mentioning it even in this moment.

I'm good with animals because I kinda am I one. Animals sense it I guess. Not good with people... Not really one. But animals they judge less, like today I was working out and this r- what's the word for it? I can't tell if it was a rat or mouse... Rat maybe because mice get scared but a tiny rat was watching me workout in the woods. It wasn't even scared of me, and maybe it was judging I don't know.

He needs to work on his intimidation if a rat isn't scared of him. Maybe if he was scarier the vampire wouldn't have even dared grab Stewart.

I like your dogs. Happy to help with them. That's what I'm trying to say. Dogs get it they understand.

Part of him wishes he were more coordinated so he could manage carrying Stewart to his room.

visionarypriest-stewart

“That’s very kind, but you don’t have to, see how you feel.”

Stewart knows the help would t go unwarranted, but David didn’t have to go out of his way like that. He listens to what David says, he opens his mouth to interject, to say David is human, but he stops himself when David continues. Instead he listens, wide eyed and interested, hanging on every word.

In a way it reminded him of himself. How he was human once. Now what is he? At least David knows what he is. How he feels, what he wants. He has the freedom to do so. Stewart respects that.

He dies blink in surprise when David mentions that he saw a rat.

“A rat? A small rat? You’re sure it was a mouse?”

He doesn’t press further though, giving himself away could ruin everything. And David’s just found out he’s a vampire, let alone Stewart sneaking off to watch him. It wasn’t his intention to stay so long…

“The dogs like you too. Rex adores you. Im glad he feels safe with you.”

Stewart is sure that he could understand too. Could t he? What was there that the dogs got that he couldn’t learn?

“They know they can trust you. You’re kind, and you know lots of things, you’re a leader. That’s why they like you so much. People…they can be tricky.”

He agrees.

“They say or act one way, but their intentions aren’t always true. Animals know.”

He muses softly.

He gets up to grab David another drink, this time he comes back with some food too. He places it in front of David and sits neatly next to him.

visionarypreist-david

David shakes his head.

Rat...more likely a rat, a mouse would be more scared I think.

He listens to Stewart talk. It's a bit self indulgent as Stewart just compliments him. The dogs find him safe. He's a leader. Trustworthy. Kind. Knows a lot. He might disagree with the last one but he doesn't wanna voice that and look pathetic or like he's fishing for more.

He misses Stewart when he leaves, but the man comes back swiftly and with more of those loaded fries he hadn't even realized he'd been craving.

Thank you.

He says genuinely.

You're the best.

While eating he muses. Getting a bit more sober now with food in his stomach, but still lacking much of a filter to keep his thoughts internal.

I don't get why Rex doesn't like you though... He's warming up to you more I can tell but that dog hated your guts... You don't deserve that Stewart. You're a good person.

A pause.

Who also just so happens to be a vampire.

Another pause. He takes a sip of his drink.

Never thought I'd grow to like a vampire...

visionarypriest-stewart

Stewart smiles and subconsciously moves closer towards David.

“I never knew I’d meet a werewolf, who is also a brilliant man.”

He says softly and smoothes down his clothes before adjusting his glasses again.

“I don’t know why Rex doesn’t like me.”

He does.

“Perhaps it’s because he’s not mine. None of the dogs are really. They belong to the masters of this estate.”

He nods to ward Geoffrey and Greg.

“The bigger dogs of course being Lord Rolland’s and Rex belongs to Greg.”

He points Greg out in the crowd. Greg, who is now seemingly off duty from telling the regulars to leave David and Stewart be, is lounging on a couch flirting aggressively with some human. As he talks, he casually looks around and catches Stewart’s gaze, before he focuses his attention back on the individual.

“They…listen to them more so than they listen to me. Even Hades. He was never like that a pup. Such a sweet little rain cloud of fluff, now look at him, stoic as ever.”

He shrugs one shoulder, reminiscing, though there’s a genuine sadness that creeps through his trained and perfectly polite exterior. He thinks back to the image of the smaller dog, hiding under the table as he fell and caught Rex’s eye. It made Stewart feel guilty, the poor dog shouldn’t have seen that.

“I’m just glad Rex is good for you when you take him out.”

The smile returns, he sits more relaxed now, but still ready to shoot up to attention incase he’s called upon or tasked with anything, from his boss or David.

“Greg has a professional partnership with Lord Rolland, business partners, they’ve been working together for a very long time.”

He mentions when David asks about Greg.

“Yeah, his status is much higher than mine, what I mean to say is, because they’re partners in business and I work under them.”

visionarypreist-david

His behavior makes sense. In a bad environment a dog can learn that sweetness and care aren't what it needs to survive. They close off get aggressive, and become distrustful...

He nods acknowledging the introduction of this new person, Rex's owner, which makes sense given the small dog stood as the outlier amongst the hunting breeds.

Rex isn't the only one who's good for me.

David says keeping eye contact with Stewart so it's clear he's not referring to another one of the dogs. He lets the tension hang there between them for a while debating in his slightly inebriated head if it'd be a good idea to kiss s vampire. Before caring on.

So, what's his deal? Clearly, he lives there too since his dog does, but it seems you do all the tasks in the estate.

Does Stewart have help there? Or is the only delegated chore the dog walking because he seems to always be stressed and busy.

At least the money is good, right? Worth all that work.... Trust me Stewart if I had you under me I'd give you something much more rewarding and you'd barely have to work for it.

He whispered roughly in Stewart's ear. For him only. A personal offer.

visionarypriest-stewart

A hint of red instantly comes to Stewart’s cheeks, he hasn’t felt a heat like this in them for a long time, he can barely remember the last time he felt the rush of blood run to his cheeks. He instantly becomes flustered but not offended, he falters in his stance and is barely able to stay sat upright and perfectly perpendicular.

For a moment he gives in to want and glances at David’s lips. He internally berates himself for thinking such a way before fixing his posture, then his glasses, the his hair; before smoothing down his clothes.

He listens and nods along.

“It’s my job to help with e writhing on the estate. The others are incredibly busy and that’s what I’m here for.”

He props himself up and allowed himself to lean back on the seat slightly, causing the section of his shirt tats closest to David become slightly untucked in his relaxed posture.

“Well…”

He starts to open up, almost blurting out how he doesn’t actually get paid, until David leans close to his ear.

His breath hitches in this throat and his mind nearly short circuits. A thousand thoughts happen at once. What if one day he could work for David? David might be nicer to him than his current ‘bosses.’ Then there was the implications.

Oh how he can’t stop thinking about the implications. Was it literal? Was it only for sex? What if there was another way Stewart could working under David’s watch? He’d certainly serve David diligently.

The voice comes in rough and low. It sends a shiver down his spine. Once more feeling he swears he has t felt in aeons.

“I-…I…”

He turns and looks at David through half lidded eyes. What spell is this? Do werewolves also have a way of controlling people? If it was true, Stewart found he didn’t mind in the slightest.

The crash of glass smashing and shattering to the floor causes Stewart to flinch and sit up, wide awake now as he looks around for any possible imminent danger.

“Whoops. Clumsy me, must be a little too inebriated. Ah, ah! Don’t you touch this Stewart, not tonight, wouldn’t want those talented fingers get hurt and damaged now…”

Greg slyly smirks and looks over to David.

“Oh, he’s very good with his hands, plays the piano don’t you know? But of course they can have…other uses…like walking the dogs.”

Greg clicks his fingers and another waiter comes over to clean up the mess.

“Not sure how much Stewart has told you. This is where he work in he evenings, along with his colleagues of course.”

He says as he flippantly waves a hand in the other waiter direction. He looks at Stewart’s shirt and raises an eyebrow, Stewart instantly fixes it.

“You’re very lucky to have him all to yourself.”

Greg smiles and glances at Stewart.

“Greg.”

Stewart interjects.

“The night is still young, but…do you think when the time comes…David could stay here?”

He risks it, he can feel the nerves clanging around in him like a cannon ball in the pit of his stomach.

“Not a bad idea. There will be lots of drunk vampires and it’s probably best for your safety you stay. In here you’ve immunity. Out there, well that can’t be guaranteed once you leave the building. I’ll inform Lord Rolland.”

With that Greg turns on his heel and scowls.

#oc #stavid #oc rp #bookburn rp #vampire au 🩸