Just a little guide to my blog. Currently a bit of a WIP. Open to Asks and Comments. Sometimes it takes me a while to get through my inbox but I will eventually get to it! I'm a proud member of Gage Acquisitions on Crystal/Coeurl and many of my entries here involve the members and their characters. Pages will be added to explore family and friends of the characters below.
Y'zel Tia
My main character and subject of most of my writing. He is pointedly not the Warrior of Light. As of Dawntrail, he has settled in as Hien's husband in Doma, taking a teaching job at the enclave while also maintaining his relationship with his soulmate, Claudien. On top of his duties as the Doman Consort, he returns to Old Sharlayan to further his studies under the Anthropology department on the reflections of Hydaelyn and continues to curate for Gage Acquisitions in partnership with Gubal.
The Warriors of Light
For my WoL line, I have three warriors of Light!
Violet Fisher - A former student of Louisioux disillusioned after his sacrifice. She worked odd jobs to fund her drinking and sailing until called to adventure by the Mothercrystal. Try as she did to resist, she eventually found herself with family and friendship she long needed. As of Dawntrail, she's recently found Hien to be her half-brother and has started a relationship with Riol Forest.
U'rahn Nuhn -Son of U'odh Nuhn. He set forth on an adventure to prove himself a hero and worthy of becoming of a Nuhn. While he stumbled all the way, he more than proved himself alongside his sisters-in-light. As of Dawntrail, he's proposed to his girlfriend, @driftward 's Nyx Blackmoon, sired eight daughters, and has embarked on a new relationship with Erenville.
Jannie Eyradoux Fortemps -Once engaged to one of the Heavenward, she fled to seek a life of being simple governess in Gridania but was bound by duty to answer the call of the Mothercrystal. As of Dawntrail, has married Artoirel Fortemps and has one son, Haurchefaunt.
Chapter 4: Gaolless
Original Characters: U'rahn Nunh
Featuring: Themis/Elidibus, Titan (Craig & Titan), Khloe Aliapoh, Krile Baldesion, Alisaie Leveilleur, Alphinaud Leveilleur
Summary: Themis makes good on his promise to Rahn and reaches out to those who knew his mom before her disappearance. Rahn trying to make sense of his attachment to Themis finds himself worrying about the implications of his feelings. Desperate to prove something to himself, he attempts to assuage those feelings but that only triggers the memories of the mistakes of his past. To make matters worse, Flameless's warning rings true as he is pursued by another Unit.
Notes: CW Blood
Rahn fluttered his ears as he roused from sleep, smelling Themis all around him. He quickly pushed up out of his blankets, ready to scold the other for overstaying but found that he was alone. Flushing, he rolled over and curled up again, tucking his tail between his legs. He'd calmed from the rollercoaster of emotions from the night before, but hadn't settled on how he truly felt. Obviously, to him, he trusted Themis so far as knowing the other meant to keep him safe; however, he still wasn't sure if he could trust his words.
He rubbed his face into a pillow, feeling Themis's lingering warmth. Rahn wondered when the other left him then groaned as he shifted and pressed himself into the bed. Feeling himself throb he whined, grateful the other had kept his word at the very least as to have missed him waking up like this. Ignoring the temptation for release, he got up and got dressed for school.
As he got his shoes on he checked his phone, having a couple messages from Themis waiting for him.
T.E. [Good Morning Rahn. I brought you some breakfast. Check your microwave.]
T. E. [You snore when you sleep. Did you know that? It was kind of cute.]
T. E. [If you want me to see about reaching out to your mother's former associates. The choice is yours.]
T. E. [I will be in class until noon. Have a good day. I love you.]
Rahn blushed a little at doting messages, wandering to the microwave to find some toast and bacon ready for him. As he let it heat back up, he leaned against his counter and went to text back.
R.D. [Yes. I want to meet them.]
R.D. [Don't come to the school. You'll weird people out hanging around. I will come home after I get out and maybe we can eat or smth.]
He typed out a third message then stared at it a moment, covering his face with his other hand as his ears folded back shyly. Microwave going off, he winced then hit send, directly replying to the last message.
R.D. [You too.]
Rahn pocketed his phone after, hoping the meaning was ambiguous to Themis as it was to himself. He quickly ate away the feelings, wincing a little as Themis seemed to have burned both the toast and bacon just a little too much. Catching the time, he picked up his book bags then headed off to school, suffering through the rest of the toast.
As he neared school, the sound of two guys arguing began to echo from an alley. Out of a mix of not wanting to be involved and leeriness from his last alley adventure he gave the opening a wide birth. From the corner of his eye he saw what looked like someone being shoved, hearing the grunt of the one that hit the wall after. Not wanting someone to get hurt he stopped and turned back, phone out in case he needed to call the police only to find a tall imposing golden haired guy being hungrily kissed by the brown haired young man he had up against the bricks.
"You can't get your way every time you kiss me," the golden-haired guy huffed.
"It's been a solid method so far," the smaller of the two cooed before pulling the other into a kiss again.
Rahn couldn't bring himself to move. Despite Themis's few kisses, he'd never actually seen two guys just necking. He swallowed. It wasn't that he felt it was wrong or gross…it just made him uncomfortable in a way he couldn't explain, which made him feel worse as he had had buddies like that in the past. Even more, he was the one being a creep unable to look away. And then realized something worse: Their ears and tails were not moving.
Blushing, he covered his mouth, noticing both tails danging limp and that their ears did not quite match their hair. He'd seen it a few times, people wearing fakes to hide that they'd stepped into adulthood. Rahn had stumbled onto something more than just a couple catching a moment, but real lovers. As he shook a little, the smaller of the two's eyes flit in his direction, giving him a playful smirk before returning his attention to his apparent boyfriend. Caught, Rahn managed to take a step back then turn to run away.
The rest of his route to school was a blur. Before he knew it, he was in his chair staring blankly up at the white board as Miss Rhul lectured away. He couldn't maintain his focus, just idly scratching into his notebook as his teacher droned on. The memory of the other's look kept flashing across his mind, like the other was taunting him…or playfully accusing him of enjoying the show. But…he wasn't like that. Themis was the one that came onto him.
"Do you want to be Khloe's partner?"
Rahn jumped as he was addressed, looking over as Khloe slid over her book. Ever since he apologized she'd acted like he'd not hurt her feelings at all. For a week or so he thought she was just faking kindness to get along, but had started to realize she was genuinely a nice person. "Sure. Though uh. I kinda spaced out," he admitted.
"That's okay! Khloe…er, I will explain," she said excitedly, scooting closer to him.
He blushed a bit as he gave Khloe a closer look. She was pretty cute, though the third person thing grated at times. He'd often seen her mobbed by the other girls in her class, fawning over her jewelry. Apparently she made her own.
"Hey, Khloe. Can you make ear cuffs," he asked, absently interrupting her explanation of the assignment.
Khloe blinked then sat up with excitement. "Do you want Khloe to make you some!? Mr. Blackthorn is teaching Khloe how to use new metals! Khloe can ask for him to help make you something really nice," she said excitedly before shrinking down as she was shushed by their teacher.
Rahn chuckled lightly and shook his head. "No. I was just thinking it was kinda cool you could do that. I'm not all that creative, at least I don't think I am. I just came to mind," he said, lowering his ears a bit.
Khloe remained lit up, scooting closer as she showed off some bracelets she'd tooled together in metal shop. "Okay, but if you change your mind, I think you'd look nice in some cuffs. On both sets of ears," she hummed before humming as she leaned in. "Are you wearing cologne? All the boys use that awful body spray but you actually smell good. Almost like peonies…"
A blush crept across Rahn's face, enjoying the attention and feeling more himself. "Ah. Well, nothing special other than my deodorant," he chuckled, letting his golden eyes lazily drift up into hers. Flirting…he'd not done it in awhile, but it felt familiar. He nosed into his shoulder after, not exactly sure what she smelling until he realized that Themis's scent still lingered on him.
"Well, I like it," Khloe said, eyes watching over Rahn as his face grew redder. "And…I like you Rahn."
"I need to use the bathroom!" Rahn yelped as his chair scraped the floor behind him.
Miss Rhul blinked as everyone turned to look at him. "Well, while the announcement is appreciated, you can always discreetly grab the hall pass and the class will make their own assumptions," she hummed while a few people snickered.
Rahn nodded then quickly hurried out of the room, taking the pass with him as he ignored Khloe lightly calling after him. Hurrying down the hall, he moved into the stairwell instead of heading into the bathroom, pulling out his phone then the card Dr. Baldesion had given him to call her number. Sitting down, he rubbed a hand through his hair while listening to the phone ring on the other side.
"Dr. Baldesion's office. This is Raha speaking," her receptionist answered on the other line.
Rahn took a deep breath then ran his fingers through his hair. "Hey…uh. This is Rahn Drake. I'm sort of not feeling great and Dr. Baldesion said I could call her if I needed to talk or make an appointment," he said, voice cracking.
"Dr. Baldesion is with a client right now. Go ahead and take a couple of deep breaths for me while I check her afternoon," Raha said on the other end, followed by the sounds of clacking computer keys.
"O-okay," Rahn whined, closing his eyes to breath.
After a few moments Raha hummed, "Alright. After her current appointment Dr. Baldesion is stepping out for a moment but then right after she has a free hour before her next appointment. You're still in school right?"
"Y-yeah," Rahn answered.
"I'll call them shortly. Go ahead and go to the office and I'll send a car to pick you up," Raha assured him before hanging up after he was sure Rahn understood.
☾
"She was crying…her boyfriend had called her a name or something. It doesn't matter…it was a lie. I was still angry about my mom. I had something to prove I guess. I couldn't protect my mom but I could help this girl who said she liked me. Said I was cool and sweet," Rahn said weakly as he rubbed his hands together. "And so when her boyfriend got mad I was hanging around we got into a stupid fight and well, I'm not a jock but I'm pretty strong. I pushed him off me and he stumbled back and fell down some stairs and broke his arm.
"I got suspended until they could figure out what to do with me. Enough people saw that he was provoking me and stuff, but we still got into it and he still got hurt. I figured she'd be mad at me too, so when my dad finally let me out of the house I went to apologize and when I saw her she'd lost her ears. She laughed at me and called me a stupid boy. That she was just trying to get rid of her ears so she'd look more mature. If she couldn't make her boyfriend jealous she'd just have gotten me to do it, she didn't care who...
"After that, I refused to go back to that school even when they lifted my suspension. So my dad moved me schools to the next town over. It was kinda far so I'd start skipping days. Hang out at home or just wander around town. I didn't really go looking for trouble… I just didn't want to be around anyone. I couldn't trust adults. I couldn't trust anyone my age…"
Rahn hung his head, rubbing his arms before holding himself. He'd struggled to breathe normally since he'd made the call. Once he arrived he barely spoke, Dr. Baldesion encouraging him to get comfortable and wait until he was ready to explain himself. Now that he'd got through his story, he felt it start to steady, though his heart had begun to pound.
"And what brought all this up for you?" Dr. Baldesion asked, sliding Rahn a cup of hot cocoa and some graham crackers. "Please, have some."
Reaching out, Rahn took a cracker and nibbled it before sipping at the cocoa. Sitting back, he looked up at the ceiling. "I uh…," he said, mind flitting to the couple in the alley, then Khloe, and finally Themis. "I just…felt like I was doing the same thing as that girl to someone," he mumbled. "Using her to feel not feel so confused…"
"You were planning to have sex with her?" Dr. Baldesion asked bluntly.
Rahn jumped, nearly spilling his drink as he went dark red. "No no no no," he said, shaking his head rapidly. "Just…more like I was thinking if I got close to her, I wouldn't feel so confused all the time. I don't want to be like that…"
"Like what?"
He thought of the couple again, locked in an embrace, their facade of innocence. Then to how he had crawled into Themis's arms last night in his underwear. That there wasn't as much hesitation to do so as he liked, thinking little of it. It was how he normally slept…but sharing a bed, that would have had him in shorts if it were someone else.
"Like someone who uses people," he answered. A truth, but not of the matter.
Dr. Baldesion smiled then leaned back, nursing her own cup of cocoa. "Well, it seems like you managed to stop yourself before you did," she pointed out before frowning. "And it brought up an unpleasant memory. You must be kind to yourself, Rahn. Don't punish yourself for something you almost did but had the fortitude not to."
Rahn stared a hole into the floor. True words, but only softened the situation. The things he really should talk about he locked away for now, happy to be calming down. "I'll try not to…"
"Was there anything else on your mind? You came to me rather panicked," Dr. Baldesion inquired.
He swallowed, feeling a little transparent. "No. Not today…but, could we talk again soon? You said I could come once a week right?"
Dr. Baldesion smiled. "Of course you can. Let's figure out what would be good for the both of us."
☾
It had felt good to talk…even if it wasn't everything on his mind. He decided he liked Dr. Baldesion, and would try to open up a little more the next time around. Maybe even talk about what really had bothered him…or at least what had started it. School about to be over he decided he'd be able to head home, checking his phone on the way out.
T.E. [I have gotten ahold of someone who knew your mother. They will reach out to you.]
T.E. [Please be careful. Call me if you need me to come get you.]
T.E. [I love you. Be safe.]
Rahn took a deep breath as he read the last message then put his phone away. The words twisted inside him. Happiness. Confusion. Reticence. Something too complicated for him to work out. That at the moment he didn't want to. Stuffing his hands into his pockets, he headed outside and tried to remember the path home, eventually finding himself cutting through a construction site.
"Finally. It must have been dumb luck that you kept running into Flameless," an annoyed voice sounded from above.
Rahn jumped then looked up as he saw the brown-haired guy that he'd seen in the alley before stumbling back as an open bottom crate came swinging overhead, attempting to center over him.
"Easy Titan! You don't want to miss and crush him," the brown-haired guy laughed before looking down at Rahn. "A cage for you Loveless! Since you seem to have slipped away from Flameless all to easily."
"L-Leave me alone," Rahn shouted, reaching for his phone in his pocket as he tried to run from the winging crate's path. Fumbling with his mobile, he tripped then watched as it slid out and away from him. Shaking, he turned around, looking up as the crate lined up over him before closing his eyes. Instead of it falling, he heard his taunter cry out in pain.
"Craig!" Titan called out to his lover, getting out of the crane swinging the crate.
"Dammit! Show yourselves!" Craig roared, holding his head with one hand as he spun around.
"I declare a battle of spells," a girl's voice commanded through the site.
Rahn scrambled to his feet, grabbing for his phone as the world began to twist. The iron frames of the construction sight started to tower upward into a violet night sky as a platform lifted him up and away. Crawling to the edge, he watched a set of white haired twins stepped forward, a brother and sister holding hands.
"Born under the same star, we push and build one another to our best selves," the girl said, eyes narrowed at Craig and Titan as they lowered down from their own platform.
"Together, there isn't anything we cannot achieve," the boy continued.
"We are Peerless," the twins said in unison.
Craig pointed forward, snarling with anger. "Stay out of this Peerless. Didn't the loss of Shadeless teach you anything? You can't stop Quattuordecim!"
"We won't yield," the girl said firmly.
"Fine. Your brother's funeral then," Craig sneered before turning to Titan. The two ran their palms over the right side of each other's chest before chanting together. "Unstoppable. Unbreakable. Unshakeable. Unchainable. We are Gaolless."
Rahn tapped away at his phone, trying to call Themis to no avail, seeming to not get signal where they were. Nervously he looked over the edge of his platform watching as rays of red light erupted from the girl and shot toward Titan.
"Our bond is impenetrable. It is a stone wall. It is our armor. Those who seek to break it will find themselves brought to heel and buried into the earth," Titan said, standing prone for the beams just for them to bounce off his body as stone formed along his body. He smirked after, standing there in what looked like golden armor with their name, Gaolless, shining just to the side of his heart.
The girl huffed, biting her lip before her brother cried out behind her. "Alisaie!"
Alisaie quickly looked back, finding her brother fallen forward on his hands. A chain had formed between their ankles that had stone forming over them, seeming to be squeezing her brother's rather firmly. "Alphinaud…," she breathed out before turning her attention to Gaolless, Craig leaning against the sturdy form of Titan.
"You can't win against us. We were taught by Lahabrea himself. Give up now before we decide to break something," Craig taunted. "We might anyway. You interrupted our fun hunt."
"Screw you," Alisaie called out as she stepped forward. "If it's a show you want, it's a show you'll get! Upon our stage you can take the spotlight and let it burn until you're not but a smoking crater!"
Rahn flinched as work lights started to flick on from the surrounding towers, blinding him briefly before they centered on Titan. The metal beneath his feet began to glow red. Craig hissed out in pain, shivering as he shifted his balance as chains spread from Titan's ankles to his own. "That all you got? Like they didn't train us to walk on coals," Craig laughed.
"The scene ends, the lights go out," Titan said, snapping his fingers so loud the shock shattered the lights.
Yelping, Rahn rolled over and covered his head, feeling the glass bounce off him then his platform away. Before he could find something to grip onto, he found himself falling then landing hard on the twins' platform beneath him. "Ow…" he whined.
"Loveless, right? Are you hurt?" Alphinaud asked, wincing as more stone crawled up his leg.
Rahn sat up and gave a weak nod as he rubbed his shoulder. "That's what people keep calling me. Though I think you should worry about yourself," he said.
"I'll be fine. Alisaie has got this," he assured him, trying to hide the pain as Alisaie shouted and sent another flurry of red bolts at Titan.
Getting on his feet, Rahn watched as Craig and Titan just stood there, taking the blows. In their wake Alphinaud cried out, more chains binding him to his sister forming as stone spread around the places on his own body where Titan was impacted. Craig spotting him grinned wide then gave him a little wink. "Don't worry. You'll be ours soon Loveless and we can continue our little show…this time with audience participation."
Rahn's face darkened as he was called out. "Sh-shut up!" was the best he could shoot back at the other before glancing over at Titan. Eyes falling to Gaolless shining on his chest he stepped forward and shook Alisaie's shoulder to get her attention. "Hit him right there. With the best spell you can come up with," he ordered pointing toward at the light.
"He's just reflecting everything back at us somehow," Alisaie pointed out she said before looking into Rahn's eyes a moment then nodding. "Fine. This better work."
Holding her hand up high, Alisaie returned her attention to Gaolless. "Petals scatter as summer ends. When the beauty of the season fades, we are left with not but their thorns. It is not death, but a warning to those who might trespass in another's garden. Leave the beauty to return or find yourself pierced," she sang before pointing toward Titan's chest.
Rose petals began to rain through the air then began to cling together. Rahn watched in awe as they formed a floral looking sword before bursting off a blade of thorns that dove straight toward Titan, piercing his armor. Craig screamed as a a collar formed about his chest, holding at his the spot his partner had taken the blade before blood began to drip through his fingers.
Rahn's eye widened covering his mouth as he watched Craig drop to his knees. Grabbing his phone he started to call for the police but found his phone still out of service. "I…I didn't mean for you t-to k-kill," he breathed out before being hugged by Alisaie.
"Shh. It's okay. It was a clean shot…and not where the heart is," she said, holding him. "He'll recover, just calm down."
"We yield," Titan yelled before squatting down to scoop up Craig. Once their surroundings returned to normal, he hurried off, cooing at his lover before disappearing from the construction yard.
"We should call someone. We should-" Rahn panicked before getting a little shake by Alisaie.
"He is going to be fine. No doubt Lahabrea's minions are nearby to collect them and take him to care," Alphinaud assured Rahn, giving his shoulder rub before collapsing forward into him.
"Alphinaud!" Alisaie gasped.
Rahn caught the other before he fell onto the ground, helping to stand him up. "Are you alright?" he asked, voice still panicked.
"I'd wager my ankle has a been fractured. Nothing our medics can't handle back at headquarters. Alisaie, could you call for the car while our new friend here helps me walk?" Alphinaud asked, slinging his arm about Rahn.
Alisaie huffed. "We should at least get a 'thank you' first. We did save him from being kidnapped afterall," she said, pulling out her phone.
"Sister," Alphinaud whined.
Rahn exhaled then lowered his ears. "Thank you…but, who are you?"
Alphinaud laughed as they started the slow walk out of the construction site. "We're from Seventh Dawn. Our leader Minfilia sent us to come get you, Loveless. Though I imagine you'd prefer Rahn?"
Rahn tensed up, worried he'd fallen into a trap. "H-How did you know my name?"
"Your mom. When we were little she showed us a picture of you when she'd visit," Alphinaud explained.
"Oh…," Rahn said before pulling out his phone. "I suppose you're who Themis was talking about. The people coming to get me."
Alphinaud seemed to tense up at the mention of Themis's name. "Minfilia asked to find you and pick you up. I guess that's what he must have meant."
"And this Minfilia person…," Rahn questioned nervously.
Alphinaud went quiet for a moment then hung his head. "She was your mother's Sentouki. They were…Shadeless."
So I am turning 35 in two days and people have been doing like Gpose or fic requests for their birthdays. If anyone would like to brighten my day up with their OCs having a good time that would be pretty neat. Or if you wanna borrow one of my characters I could send the anamesis files. 🍰
Chapter 3: Wordless
Original Characters: U'rahn Nunh,
Featuring: Themis/Elidibus, Claudien/Erichthonius, Ifrit
Summary: Rahn mistakes Themis's friend for his lover and runs off confused where he runs into Flameless once more. Rather than looking for a fight, the couple provides a warning and attempts to build a bridge between them.
"Who's this little twunk!?"
Themis looked up as his friend Claudien poked one of the pictures of Rahn and him on his cork board as bleach dripped off his hair onto the towel about his neck. "My neighbor, Rahn," he answered, setting the book he was reading down on his leg.
Claudien looked around the collage of photos. "Looks like more than a neighbour to me. And he's still got his ears! Themis, don't tell me you're-"
"I'm not. He does not want that," Themis interrupted. "He is Lolamo's son. And the one your father was looking for."
Claudien went quiet a moment, plopping down on Themis's bed. "I thought you were done with all that after she…"
"She asked me to look over him. And I belong to him. Always have," Themis answered, noting Claudien's drop in mood. "Don't worry, I will keep him from your parents."
"Right…still… They're both dangerous. After what they put me through…what they put /you/ through," Claudien sighed, resting his arms on his knees.
"I volunteered," Themis corrected.
"But you were just a kid. If you knew what Beloved would do to you-," Claudien started before a knock at the door echoed through the apartment.
Getting up, Themis answered the door, finding Rahn standing with some bags from the convenience store. He smiled, not expecting the other to turn up on his own despite their proximity. "What do you have there?" he asked.
"I got some extra stuff and thought I'd see if you wanted dinner…but it seems you're busy," Rahn answered, ears falling as he looked past him.
Themis followed his gaze to Claudien sitting on his bed. He supposed that did look a little strange lacking context. "Claudien is just borrowing my bathroom to dye his-," Themis started, turning back to find Rahn disappearing into his own apartment with a slam of his door.
Claudien chuckles lightly. "He's jealous. You really are after his ears aren't you?" he teased.
"Stop that," Themis ordered, shutting his door. He figured it was best to let Rahn have a moment to calm down before he confronted him.
☾
Rahn grit his teeth as he chopped away at a green onion until it was virtually nothing. Of course Themis had friends…earless friends. Themis was earless. It was natural he would be…
Rahn tried to shake off the image of Themis embracing the guy in the next room in the same way he'd done him. /So much for loving me/ Rahn thought to himself tossing his knife into the sink. He gripped the counter, feeling like he needed to catch his breath.
It was a good thing Themis had someone. Maybe he wouldn't hang on him anymore. It was weird enough being both guys. He hated it really. And now it felt right to. Themis was with someone else. He lied just like any other adult. Themis didn't love him.
Rahn squat down as his breathing became erratic. Needing air, he went to his door then outside to catch his breath. Hearing laughter from next door he winced then fled as fast as he could.
After what seemed like miles, Rahn found himself in the city. He only had a vague idea where he was, but more importantly he knew where he wasn't. After he caught his breath, he stuffed his hands in his pocket and began to wander.
The city was crowded and rancorous compared to the desert and costal towns he grew up in. He'd been adjusting to it but still remained difficult to get used to. The only quiet place he knew was the park but he was actively putting it out of his mind.
Finding the mall he went inside and looked around, distracting himself with some window shopping. Not paying attention to where he was going, he ran into someone solid. Stumbling back, he looked up to find Ifrit staring at him, head tilted while Jinn ate some pretzel bites beside him. "Of course," Rahn groaned. "J-Just leave me alone! I'll call for Themis."
In truth, he didn't know how to get ahold of Themis. He hadn't bothered exchanging numbers given they were next door and the other tended to have good timing. The couple seemed largely unphased by the threat.
"Chill out. We're not dumb enough to get into a third fight with you. We were removed from the mission," Ifrit said. "We do have lives of our own, y'know."
"Er. Right. I guess," Rahn said cautiously, taking a step back.
Ifrit rubbed the back of his head then looked back toward Jinn a moment, briefly flashing the Flameless scrawled along his palm. "Though, would you walk with us a bit? We just want to talk."
"How do I know you're not going to try to battle more or whatever?" Rahn asked.
Jinn blinked then laughed with Ifrit. "How can we battle you if Themis isn't here?"
Rahn shook his head, unsure what the protocol was. "Er…I don't know? Can't you?"
Ifrit sighed then rubbed his face a moment before shaking his head. "Themis didn't tell you anything? Right…just come with us. We'll go in the food court, nice and public."
Reluctantly Rahn agreed, following Ifrit and Jinn toward the food court, grabbing himself a snack before joining them at a table. He swallowed, nervous that this another trap, but being surrounded by people did seem to put him a little more at ease. "So…uh…why have you been trying to kidnap me?" he asked before biting into a slice of pizza.
"We were ordered to by Prof. Lahabrea. He wants you to attend our school. It's a special school for Units like us. Sentouki are trained to fight while Sacrifices learn to build endurance and care for their fighters," Jinn explained.
"As for why, dunno. Probably because you are a sacrifice. We just did what we were told," Ifrit said, leaning back with his arms behind his head. "All we were told was that you're Loveless and important."
Rahn folded his ears back. He was going to deny being anything special, but it was hard to after being involved in two battles. "How are you so sure that I'm Loveless?"
"Dunno, but you're clearly a Sacrifice. I suppose an easier way to tell for sure is to find your marking," Jinn said, holding out her palm to showing him the Flameless on her palm.
"If you want we could go to the bathroom and I can help you look," Ifrit offered.
Rahn blushed. "N-No way! I-I think I would know if I had something like that on me," he huffed, taking another bite of his pizza.
"Hey, your name sometimes doesn't form right away. About the time you really come into your powers is when it shows up. For a long time mine was just a birthmark looking thing on my palm," Ifrit chuckled.
Jinn nodded. "Mine too," she said.
"…So, is there another Loveless?" Rahn asked. "Is it not Themis?"
"It's not! He already has a Sacrifice!" Jinn snapped.
Ifrit reached over and laced his fingers with Jinn. "Easy. It's not like…Rahn,right? Rahn knows."
Rahn tilted his head then looked at the couple holding hands. "Er, so…then I guess they're what? Supposed to be my destined lover or something?"
"I suppose I can see how you'd get that impression. It's true a lot of Units become romantic partners, but that's not always the case. Some are just friends. Some are family. Some are indifferent to one another or even cruel," Ifrit explained.
"Still...they're fated to one another. To take on another partner is the deepest form of betrayal…," Jinn said shaking.
"Jinn…it's okay. I'll never leave you," Ifrit cooed, leaning over to kiss her cheek.
Rahn sank in his chair a little, a bit embarrassed to be the third wheel. "So…who was Themis's partner? What happened to them," he pressed, trying not to think of the guy he'd seen in Themis's apartment.
"Beloved," Jinn answered, "They were killed five years ago."
"Five…years ago?" Rahn repeated, immediately thinking of his mom. "Do they know who did it?"
"I don't know. The only thing I do know is that they were the most powerful Unit at our school until his death. Themis left the school a year later," Jinn said.
"I see…," Rahn said quietly.
"Look, it's like I said. We're not going to bother you anymore but Prof. Lahabrea wants you at our school. He's going to send others. It doesn't matter how skilled a fighter Themis is, you're not a true Unit. You're going to get hurt as his sacrifice, eventually. If you go to Sentouki Academy now you can spare yourself the pain. You belong with us," Ifrit said before getting up. "We should get back before curfew. Let's do this again sometime under better circumstances."
Rahn blinked as Ifrit held out his fist. Hesitantly he lifted his own to meet it while Jinn gave him a wave goodbye before gripping Ifrit's arm as they wandered away leaving him with his thoughts. After finishing his pizza, he got up and recycled his plate before deciding he should head home.
The closer he got though the slower he got. While he wasn't exactly ready to go running off to his would be kidnappers, there was a sobering realization he knew next to nothing about Themis. Granted, Themis never tried to hurt him and seemed to listen to him when he needed space. Not to mention claimed to love-
Rahn stopped, confusion hitting him like a wave. It was almost dizzying how he could take comfort in the other's words then reject and fight them seconds after. This time he needed to be more firm and tell Themis to leave him alone. For all of them to leave him alone. He wasn't Loveless. He was just Rahn.
Returning to his apartment, he headed up stairs, trying to get past Themis's door quietly only to have the other waiting for him inside in just some socks and pajama bottoms in the dark reading on his bed under a lamp. "Wh-what are you doing in here!?" he demanded.
"You left the door unlocked. I was worried when you ran away. You seemed upset that my friend Claudien was over," Themis answered, resting his book on his stomach. "I just wanted to make sure you were okay."
"Yeah. Well, I'm fine," Rahn huffed, kicking his shoes off rather harshly so that they beat against the wall. "You can go back to him now."
"He left. He was just borrowing my bathroom to dye his hair," Themis said evenly as he sat up. "I am sorry if that upset you."
"Well, what was I suppose to think!? He was practically naked in your bed. And you're both…you don't have your ears….and you seem to like guys…," Rahn said before rubbing his face. "Th-that doesn't even matter!"
"I'm wearing little more than he was now and I am not expecting to be doing anything that might have you shed your ears," Themis responded evenly before standing up and putting his arms around Rahn. "Do you need me to do something to prove that I belong to you?"
Rahn flushed as the other held him before pushing him away. "You don't belong to me! You belong to Beloved! Yeah, I know about him," he spat, seeing the other's shocked look.
"Who did you speak with?" Themis asked, narrowing his eyes.
Rahn tore off his jacket, dumping it on a pile of clothes. "I ran into Flameless again. You weren't around and they just wanted to talk. They said you were Beloved's fighter…and that he died five years ago. That can't be a coincidence. So what am I? A replacement? Why does this Lahabrea guy want me?"
Themis remained silent for a moment then shook his head. "I am sorry I wasn't there for you. It's true, I was Beloved's fighter before he died. Yes, it was related to your mother. No, you are not a replacement. And Lahabrea is an evil man that wants to use Units to his own ends," he answered evenly before finding Rahn pouncing on top of him and pinning him down.
"LIAR!" Rahn yelled.
Themis stared up at Rahn quietly, not so much as flinching as the other's nails went into his shoulder. "What have I lied about?"
"You didn't tell me any of that! You don't actually tell me anything!" Rahn said hoarsely, watching as his tears dripped down onto Themis's cheek.
"I have never lied to you," Themis said, reaching up to brush the other's tears away from one of his cheeks. "But if it makes you feel better to hurt me, you can."
Rahn immediately let go, stumbling back onto his feet until he hit the wall. "I-I wouldn't…I wouldn't hurt you. That would be sick," he said, holding his stomach a moment. After catching his breath he shook his head. "Not tell me anything is just as bad as lying. You're still keeping things from me."
Themis sat up on his elbows, watching Rahn calm himself down. "It is not my intention to omit the truth. I just want to keep you safe for as long as I can. Just as I will do what you want, I will tell you what you want to know within my scope of knowledge."
Rahn absorbed the other's words for a moment. "Omitting the truth is just a version of lying that adults can get away with on the technicalities of things not being said," he huffed.
"I know. You hate that. Sometimes though, omitting the truth protects people from pain," Themis responded.
"Yeah, well. I'm a Sacrifice right? I should get used to pain," Rahn said, hanging his head. "Did you love Beloved?"
"In a manner of speaking, yes. I was wrong to though. There are certain scars that remain because of that," Themis answered before turning around. Carved into each of his shoulders was Beloved's name, scared to look like wings had been ripped from his back.
Rahn stared at the markings, eyes wide. "Themis…," he breathed out, feeling a twinge of guilt.
"There are wrong ways to love a person. I am still learning myself," Themis said before wandering over to Rahn to embrace him. "I'm sorry that I am not forthcoming. And I am sorry that you were left alone today."
Rahn blushed then rested his weight against the other, burying his face against his arm. "You confuse me…I hate it…," he whined before jumping as he felt Themis's hand run down his hip and into his pocket. "W-woah whoa!"
Themis pulled back, holding up Rahn's phone. "I am just putting my number in here in case you need me," he assured him, holding it up to scan Rahn's face to unlock it before adding his information before sending himself a message. "I will set your number as a priority. Any time you need me, I will answer."
Rahn, blushing furiously took his phone back then went to put it on his charger. "Just watch where you're grabbing next time," he mumbled, ears pressed back. "You're not off the hook…not yet. Don't go thinking I'm going to let you do whatever now just because I'm feeling a little sorry for you."
"I understand. I will work better to earn your trust," Themis cooed before moving back to collect his book. "Your mother…her disappearance and Beloved's death are related, but I don't know the details. I was kept in the dark on purpose…but I do have people that might know more…they just might want something in return."
"Like what?" Rahn asked.
"To embrace being a Unit and fight Lahabrea," Themis answered. "I don't want to put you in any danger. Lahabrea will be persistent as but being ready for a fight is a lot safer than looking for them…Still, the choice will be yours. Goodnight, Rahn."
Rahn watched as Themis started toward the door. "Wait!" he called out.
Themis stopped, looking back at Rahn who seemed to not know why he stopped him in the first place. Rubbing his arm, Rahn looked at the floor then up at the ceiling, face red. "I'm not scared…but, Flameless did say there were others after me. Can you just stay for awhile? Like until I fall asleep or something?"
"I would be happy to," Themis answered, returning to Rahn's bed to lay back down and read his book.
Rahn stared a moment, looking down Themis's slender body before flushing and turning away to head to the bathroom to get ready for bed. After brushing his teeth and taking a hot shower, he left the room with his towel tightly around his waist. To his relief, Themis didn't seem to care to leer, absorbed in his book. Quickly, he went to his dresser then found a fresh pair of boxer briefs to tug up under his towel before letting it drop.
"Scoot over," he ordered when he returned to his bed, tugging on a pair of socks as he walked.
Themis obliged, shifting against the wall to let Rahn lay down beside him. Once settled in, he reached over Rahn to set his book down and turn the lamp off. As he leaned away, he found Rahn rolling into him, face in his chest.
"This isn't an invitation to do try anything. You're just warm and I like it," Rahn grumbled.
Themis smiled. "Sure, Rahn," he cooed, draping his arm over the other.
"You can't stay the night…you gotta go after I fall asleep for awhile," Rahn added, ears folding back as he ran his leg between Themis's to get comfortable.
"I'll try not to wake you then," Themis hummed. "Goodnight, Rahn."
"Night…," Rahn mumbled, letting sleep take him as he shifted his arms to hold Themis against him.
Chapter 3: Wordless
Original Characters: U'rahn Nunh,
Featuring: Themis/Elidibus, Claudien/Erichthonius, Ifrit
Summary: Rahn mistakes Themis's friend for his lover and runs off confused where he runs into Flameless once more. Rather than looking for a fight, the couple provides a warning and attempts to build a bridge between them.
"Who's this little twunk!?"
Themis looked up as his friend Claudien poked one of the pictures of Rahn and him on his cork board as bleach dripped off his hair onto the towel about his neck. "My neighbor, Rahn," he answered, setting the book he was reading down on his leg.
Claudien looked around the collage of photos. "Looks like more than a neighbour to me. And he's still got his ears! Themis, don't tell me you're-"
"I'm not. He does not want that," Themis interrupted. "He is Lolamo's son. And the one your father was looking for."
Claudien went quiet a moment, plopping down on Themis's bed. "I thought you were done with all that after she…"
"She asked me to look over him. And I belong to him. Always have," Themis answered, noting Claudien's drop in mood. "Don't worry, I will keep him from your parents."
"Right…still… They're both dangerous. After what they put me through…what they put /you/ through," Claudien sighed, resting his arms on his knees.
"I volunteered," Themis corrected.
"But you were just a kid. If you knew what Beloved would do to you-," Claudien started before a knock at the door echoed through the apartment.
Getting up, Themis answered the door, finding Rahn standing with some bags from the convenience store. He smiled, not expecting the other to turn up on his own despite their proximity. "What do you have there?" he asked.
"I got some extra stuff and thought I'd see if you wanted dinner…but it seems you're busy," Rahn answered, ears falling as he looked past him.
Themis followed his gaze to Claudien sitting on his bed. He supposed that did look a little strange lacking context. "Claudien is just borrowing my bathroom to dye his-," Themis started, turning back to find Rahn disappearing into his own apartment with a slam of his door.
Claudien chuckles lightly. "He's jealous. You really are after his ears aren't you?" he teased.
"Stop that," Themis ordered, shutting his door. He figured it was best to let Rahn have a moment to calm down before he confronted him.
☾
Rahn grit his teeth as he chopped away at a green onion until it was virtually nothing. Of course Themis had friends…earless friends. Themis was earless. It was natural he would be…
Rahn tried to shake off the image of Themis embracing the guy in the next room in the same way he'd done him. /So much for loving me/ Rahn thought to himself tossing his knife into the sink. He gripped the counter, feeling like he needed to catch his breath.
It was a good thing Themis had someone. Maybe he wouldn't hang on him anymore. It was weird enough being both guys. He hated it really. And now it felt right to. Themis was with someone else. He lied just like any other adult. Themis didn't love him.
Rahn squat down as his breathing became erratic. Needing air, he went to his door then outside to catch his breath. Hearing laughter from next door he winced then fled as fast as he could.
After what seemed like miles, Rahn found himself in the city. He only had a vague idea where he was, but more importantly he knew where he wasn't. After he caught his breath, he stuffed his hands in his pocket and began to wander.
The city was crowded and rancorous compared to the desert and costal towns he grew up in. He'd been adjusting to it but still remained difficult to get used to. The only quiet place he knew was the park but he was actively putting it out of his mind.
Finding the mall he went inside and looked around, distracting himself with some window shopping. Not paying attention to where he was going, he ran into someone solid. Stumbling back, he looked up to find Ifrit staring at him, head tilted while Jinn ate some pretzel bites beside him. "Of course," Rahn groaned. "J-Just leave me alone! I'll call for Themis."
In truth, he didn't know how to get ahold of Themis. He hadn't bothered exchanging numbers given they were next door and the other tended to have good timing. The couple seemed largely unphased by the threat.
"Chill out. We're not dumb enough to get into a third fight with you. We were removed from the mission," Ifrit said. "We do have lives of our own, y'know."
"Er. Right. I guess," Rahn said cautiously, taking a step back.
Ifrit rubbed the back of his head then looked back toward Jinn a moment, briefly flashing the Flameless scrawled along his palm. "Though, would you walk with us a bit? We just want to talk."
"How do I know you're not going to try to battle more or whatever?" Rahn asked.
Jinn blinked then laughed with Ifrit. "How can we battle you if Themis isn't here?"
Rahn shook his head, unsure what the protocol was. "Er…I don't know? Can't you?"
Ifrit sighed then rubbed his face a moment before shaking his head. "Themis didn't tell you anything? Right…just come with us. We'll go in the food court, nice and public."
Reluctantly Rahn agreed, following Ifrit and Jinn toward the food court, grabbing himself a snack before joining them at a table. He swallowed, nervous that this another trap, but being surrounded by people did seem to put him a little more at ease. "So…uh…why have you been trying to kidnap me?" he asked before biting into a slice of pizza.
"We were ordered to by Prof. Lahabrea. He wants you to attend our school. It's a special school for Units like us. Sentouki are trained to fight while Sacrifices learn to build endurance and care for their fighters," Jinn explained.
"As for why, dunno. Probably because you are a sacrifice. We just did what we were told," Ifrit said, leaning back with his arms behind his head. "All we were told was that you're Loveless and important."
Rahn folded his ears back. He was going to deny being anything special, but it was hard to after being involved in two battles. "How are you so sure that I'm Loveless?"
"Dunno, but you're clearly a Sacrifice. I suppose an easier way to tell for sure is to find your marking," Jinn said, holding out her palm to showing him the Flameless on her palm.
"If you want we could go to the bathroom and I can help you look," Ifrit offered.
Rahn blushed. "N-No way! I-I think I would know if I had something like that on me," he huffed, taking another bite of his pizza.
"Hey, your name sometimes doesn't form right away. About the time you really come into your powers is when it shows up. For a long time mine was just a birthmark looking thing on my palm," Ifrit chuckled.
Jinn nodded. "Mine too," she said.
"…So, is there another Loveless?" Rahn asked. "Is it not Themis?"
"It's not! He already has a Sacrifice!" Jinn snapped.
Ifrit reached over and laced his fingers with Jinn. "Easy. It's not like…Rahn,right? Rahn knows."
Rahn tilted his head then looked at the couple holding hands. "Er, so…then I guess they're what? Supposed to be my destined lover or something?"
"I suppose I can see how you'd get that impression. It's true a lot of Units become romantic partners, but that's not always the case. Some are just friends. Some are family. Some are indifferent to one another or even cruel," Ifrit explained.
"Still...they're fated to one another. To take on another partner is the deepest form of betrayal…," Jinn said shaking.
"Jinn…it's okay. I'll never leave you," Ifrit cooed, leaning over to kiss her cheek.
Rahn sank in his chair a little, a bit embarrassed to be the third wheel. "So…who was Themis's partner? What happened to them," he pressed, trying not to think of the guy he'd seen in Themis's apartment.
"Beloved," Jinn answered, "They were killed five years ago."
"Five…years ago?" Rahn repeated, immediately thinking of his mom. "Do they know who did it?"
"I don't know. The only thing I do know is that they were the most powerful Unit at our school until his death. Themis left the school a year later," Jinn said.
"I see…," Rahn said quietly.
"Look, it's like I said. We're not going to bother you anymore but Prof. Lahabrea wants you at our school. He's going to send others. It doesn't matter how skilled a fighter Themis is, you're not a true Unit. You're going to get hurt as his sacrifice, eventually. If you go to Sentouki Academy now you can spare yourself the pain. You belong with us," Ifrit said before getting up. "We should get back before curfew. Let's do this again sometime under better circumstances."
Rahn blinked as Ifrit held out his fist. Hesitantly he lifted his own to meet it while Jinn gave him a wave goodbye before gripping Ifrit's arm as they wandered away leaving him with his thoughts. After finishing his pizza, he got up and recycled his plate before deciding he should head home.
The closer he got though the slower he got. While he wasn't exactly ready to go running off to his would be kidnappers, there was a sobering realization he knew next to nothing about Themis. Granted, Themis never tried to hurt him and seemed to listen to him when he needed space. Not to mention claimed to love-
Rahn stopped, confusion hitting him like a wave. It was almost dizzying how he could take comfort in the other's words then reject and fight them seconds after. This time he needed to be more firm and tell Themis to leave him alone. For all of them to leave him alone. He wasn't Loveless. He was just Rahn.
Returning to his apartment, he headed up stairs, trying to get past Themis's door quietly only to have the other waiting for him inside in just some socks and pajama bottoms in the dark reading on his bed under a lamp. "Wh-what are you doing in here!?" he demanded.
"You left the door unlocked. I was worried when you ran away. You seemed upset that my friend Claudien was over," Themis answered, resting his book on his stomach. "I just wanted to make sure you were okay."
"Yeah. Well, I'm fine," Rahn huffed, kicking his shoes off rather harshly so that they beat against the wall. "You can go back to him now."
"He left. He was just borrowing my bathroom to dye his hair," Themis said evenly as he sat up. "I am sorry if that upset you."
"Well, what was I suppose to think!? He was practically naked in your bed. And you're both…you don't have your ears….and you seem to like guys…," Rahn said before rubbing his face. "Th-that doesn't even matter!"
"I'm wearing little more than he was now and I am not expecting to be doing anything that might have you shed your ears," Themis responded evenly before standing up and putting his arms around Rahn. "Do you need me to do something to prove that I belong to you?"
Rahn flushed as the other held him before pushing him away. "You don't belong to me! You belong to Beloved! Yeah, I know about him," he spat, seeing the other's shocked look.
"Who did you speak with?" Themis asked, narrowing his eyes.
Rahn tore off his jacket, dumping it on a pile of clothes. "I ran into Flameless again. You weren't around and they just wanted to talk. They said you were Beloved's fighter…and that he died five years ago. That can't be a coincidence. So what am I? A replacement? Why does this Lahabrea guy want me?"
Themis remained silent for a moment then shook his head. "I am sorry I wasn't there for you. It's true, I was Beloved's fighter before he died. Yes, it was related to your mother. No, you are not a replacement. And Lahabrea is an evil man that wants to use Units to his own ends," he answered evenly before finding Rahn pouncing on top of him and pinning him down.
"LIAR!" Rahn yelled.
Themis stared up at Rahn quietly, not so much as flinching as the other's nails went into his shoulder. "What have I lied about?"
"You didn't tell me any of that! You don't actually tell me anything!" Rahn said hoarsely, watching as his tears dripped down onto Themis's cheek.
"I have never lied to you," Themis said, reaching up to brush the other's tears away from one of his cheeks. "But if it makes you feel better to hurt me, you can."
Rahn immediately let go, stumbling back onto his feet until he hit the wall. "I-I wouldn't…I wouldn't hurt you. That would be sick," he said, holding his stomach a moment. After catching his breath he shook his head. "Not tell me anything is just as bad as lying. You're still keeping things from me."
Themis sat up on his elbows, watching Rahn calm himself down. "It is not my intention to omit the truth. I just want to keep you safe for as long as I can. Just as I will do what you want, I will tell you what you want to know within my scope of knowledge."
Rahn absorbed the other's words for a moment. "Omitting the truth is just a version of lying that adults can get away with on the technicalities of things not being said," he huffed.
"I know. You hate that. Sometimes though, omitting the truth protects people from pain," Themis responded.
"Yeah, well. I'm a Sacrifice right? I should get used to pain," Rahn said, hanging his head. "Did you love Beloved?"
"In a manner of speaking, yes. I was wrong to though. There are certain scars that remain because of that," Themis answered before turning around. Carved into each of his shoulders was Beloved's name, scared to look like wings had been ripped from his back.
Rahn stared at the markings, eyes wide. "Themis…," he breathed out, feeling a twinge of guilt.
"There are wrong ways to love a person. I am still learning myself," Themis said before wandering over to Rahn to embrace him. "I'm sorry that I am not forthcoming. And I am sorry that you were left alone today."
Rahn blushed then rested his weight against the other, burying his face against his arm. "You confuse me…I hate it…," he whined before jumping as he felt Themis's hand run down his hip and into his pocket. "W-woah whoa!"
Themis pulled back, holding up Rahn's phone. "I am just putting my number in here in case you need me," he assured him, holding it up to scan Rahn's face to unlock it before adding his information before sending himself a message. "I will set your number as a priority. Any time you need me, I will answer."
Rahn, blushing furiously took his phone back then went to put it on his charger. "Just watch where you're grabbing next time," he mumbled, ears pressed back. "You're not off the hook…not yet. Don't go thinking I'm going to let you do whatever now just because I'm feeling a little sorry for you."
"I understand. I will work better to earn your trust," Themis cooed before moving back to collect his book. "Your mother…her disappearance and Beloved's death are related, but I don't know the details. I was kept in the dark on purpose…but I do have people that might know more…they just might want something in return."
"Like what?" Rahn asked.
"To embrace being a Unit and fight Lahabrea," Themis answered. "I don't want to put you in any danger. Lahabrea will be persistent as but being ready for a fight is a lot safer than looking for them…Still, the choice will be yours. Goodnight, Rahn."
Rahn watched as Themis started toward the door. "Wait!" he called out.
Themis stopped, looking back at Rahn who seemed to not know why he stopped him in the first place. Rubbing his arm, Rahn looked at the floor then up at the ceiling, face red. "I'm not scared…but, Flameless did say there were others after me. Can you just stay for awhile? Like until I fall asleep or something?"
"I would be happy to," Themis answered, returning to Rahn's bed to lay back down and read his book.
Rahn stared a moment, looking down Themis's slender body before flushing and turning away to head to the bathroom to get ready for bed. After brushing his teeth and taking a hot shower, he left the room with his towel tightly around his waist. To his relief, Themis didn't seem to care to leer, absorbed in his book. Quickly, he went to his dresser then found a fresh pair of boxer briefs to tug up under his towel before letting it drop.
"Scoot over," he ordered when he returned to his bed, tugging on a pair of socks as he walked.
Themis obliged, shifting against the wall to let Rahn lay down beside him. Once settled in, he reached over Rahn to set his book down and turn the lamp off. As he leaned away, he found Rahn rolling into him, face in his chest.
"This isn't an invitation to do try anything. You're just warm and I like it," Rahn grumbled.
Themis smiled. "Sure, Rahn," he cooed, draping his arm over the other.
"You can't stay the night…you gotta go after I fall asleep for awhile," Rahn added, ears folding back as he ran his leg between Themis's to get comfortable.
"I'll try not to wake you then," Themis hummed. "Goodnight, Rahn."
"Night…," Rahn mumbled, letting sleep take him as he shifted his arms to hold Themis against him.
Another one with copic markers (and a lot of digital retouch , because I can FINALLY use Photoshop correctly, so I´ll be finishid a lot of stuff that´s been in hiatus since last year)
Anyways, here´s Riku, he´s one of my faves to draw, and I´m still in KH mood, so it won´t be the last one.
“Those interested in rockets were as much obsessive visionaries as technical geniuses... living on the cusp between an old world in which the very idea of space travel was a scientific absurdity and a new world in which it would become scientific fact.”
― George Pendle, Strange Angel: The Otherworldly Life of Rocket Scientist John Whiteside Parsons
Chapter 2: Pastless
Original Characters: U'rahn Nunh
Featuring: Krile Baldesion, Themis, Ifrit
Summary: In therapy, Rahn finds someone he feels he can trust and allows himself to open up to the idea that Themis could possibly be someone he might rely on if given the opportunity to be honest with him.
Rahn rubbed his shoes together as he leaned forward. Ten minutes had passed but the woman in front of him hadn't said a thing to him other than introduce herself as Dr. Baldesion. Far from him to complain to not be forced to talk, the silence was starting to unnerve him.
"So…are you going to say anything?" Rahn finally asked.
Dr. Baldesion smiled. "I am here to listen."
Crossing his arms, Rahn leaned back. "Yeah? About my problems?"
"If that's what you want to discuss," she responded warmly.
"Well. I'm sure you know all about me from the last person they made me speak with," he said dismissively as he folded his ears back.
Dr. Baldesion hummed, leaning over to pick up his file from her desk. "What I have is a loose collection of observations made by an entirely different person. You don't trust adults. You struggle to relate to your peers. You're angry. Things someone can probably glean easily about you but you are more than that are you not? There are reasons you feel that way, if you even truly feel that way at all. It's not for me to say, but you, in your own time."
Rahn blinked as she flopped the file back down on her desk, surprised at her bluntness. He fumbled with his sleeves a moment. He appreciated the way she talked, straight to the point. A quality most adults lacked. "Right…I guess," he said while rubbing his arm. "I'm not really going to argue with all that though.
"After my mom vanished, it's like everyone pretended that they forgot her. No one would tell me exactly what happened…or that they just didn't know. And refused to talk about her…so, I guess that file is right. It doesn't help that I can't remember things right. I can't even picture her face. I am angry…I don't trust adults to tell me the truth. "
"And that's extended to your peers as well?" Dr. Baldesion asked, seeming to scribble down notes as they spoke.
"Er…I guess. Everyone's losing their ears left and right. Leaping at a chance to become an adult…and being just as fake about it," he said, curling his fingers into his palms. "Some will say anything…hurt anyone…."
A flash of a memory crossed his mind. A girl crying…then laughing… He took in a deep breath then crossed his legs under him, trying not to get too upset in front of his therapist. "So…yeah…"
Dr. Baldesion stopped writing then folded her hands over her notebook. "Do you have someone that you feel safe talking to?"
"You're not so bad…so far," Rahn said, ears perking a bit.
"I am flattered that you've been quick to warm to me; however, I mean outside here," she clarified.
Rahn thought a moment. He was on his own now and he hadn't bothered to make friends at school, keeping his head down since his first day. Then there was Themis…there mere thought made his heart leap. His eyes fell on a small envelope sticking out of his school bag. Though he'd told Themis to leave him alone, he'd still gone to print a copy of their photos to give to him. "I think…I have someone who'd listen if I asked him to," he said, blush creeping across his cheek.
"Well, that's good then. Now, today's session is short given that most people who come are reticent to jump right into things. At the school's request they wish for you to come see me at least once a month until my reports pacify them; however, if you'd like you can schedule time with me more frequently than that. Only if you want though," Dr. Baldesion offered as she leaned over to grab a card from her desk to hand to Rahn. "My number to make an appointment."
Rahn took the card and stared at it a moment before nodding. "Maybe…What are you telling the school?" he asked, raising his brow.
"Well, we've only had a brief talk so nothing more than I think you'll do fine in class and that they need to give you time to adjust to your new school and routine and that I have made myself available to you should you need to talk," she replied warmly.
Rahn searched her face, not sensing that she was lying. Shifting, he pulled out his wallet then stuffed her card in next to his student ID. "Alright. Thank you…," he said before getting up with a stretch. "I'll…I'll think about it. You seem pretty alright."
"I'm glad you think so. My assistant up front will write your note for school that you were here. I really do hope you'll come talk to me soon."
Rahn nodded then picked up his bag, slinging it over his shoulder. On his way out he got his note then headed out of Dr. Baldesion's office and out onto the busy street. A part of him wanted to skip class for the rest of the day, but didn't want to risk getting in trouble. Not to mention he felt that they'd not let him see Dr. Baldesion again if he took her up on her offer.
☾
Class came and went in a blink of an eye. In a better mood and having a little more footing after his first week he had been more inclined to participate, mostly in Literature as he enjoyed it the most. He even took a moment to apologize to Khloe when catching her in the hall. When the day drew to a close he meandered out of the school while his peers went to clubs or headed home. A part of him had hoped Themis would be waiting, but he found the front of the school populated by parents who could afford to pick their kids up.
Heading home, he briefly stopped by the park where they'd gone, feeling his stomach twist as he remembered their embrace and the strange couple that had confronted them. It had all started to feel like a dream, and he might have lent the memory to that if it were not for the pictures of him and Themis together. His heart ached a little. He'd lashed out before he really could get any answers. And…it had been so long since anyone told them they loved him.
Rahn tried to shake off the feeling. There wasn't a reason to feel guilty. Themis was a stranger and had kissed him. That was weird! They were both guys. Also kind of weird! Just as he managed to convince himself he'd done the right thing rebuffing the other, he stomped up the stairs toward his apartment and ran into his new neighbor just as they were leaving.
"Careful," a familiar voice cooed as Rahn felt arms wrap around him.
"Er…," Rahn started before looking up, finding Themis's blue eyes staring down at him. "Th-themis!?"
Themis smiled then let Rahn step out of his embrace. "Apologies, I did not think you'd be home so soon."
"What are you doing here!?" Rahn demanded with a tail thrash. "Y-you say all that stuff to me and then just vanish for a week!"
"I didn't vanish. You told me to stay away, so I did my best to follow your order. Though, I was always close by," he said, gesturing to the door. "In case you changed your mind."
Rahn blushed, folding back his ears shyly as he looked away. "And you moved next door? Don't you think that's a bit stalkery?"
"I don't think you'd believe me if I told you it was a happy coincidence. I do attend the college nearby. Though I'll admit to knowing you'd likely come to live in the area," Themis answered.
Rahn glanced up at Themis. He didn't believe him, but still didn't feel like the other had any ill intent toward him. Especially given that he'd kept his word to not bother him. He imagined it was probably difficult to do given their proximity. "Right…," he said before slugging off his backpack, pulling the envelope of photos out to hand to Themis.
Themis raised his brow then opened the seal, thumbing through the images quietly before offering Rahn a smile. "Thank you," he said holding them to his chest briefly before pocketing them in his satchel. "If you would let me, I'd like to treat you to dinner tonight. That is you don't want me to continue to keep my distance."
Rahn stared a moment. Dinner the past week had mostly been ramen he'd enhanced with things he picked up from the convenience store. While a good cook, he wasn't the best at remembering he needed to make a real run to the grocery store. "I guess we could….just….don't, try to kiss me and stuff," he mumbled, face red. "And maybe tell me some stuff about my mom."
"As you wish," Themis said with a light bow. "Meet me Bismark and 5th at 8:30 at the bus stop. There are a few restaurants there. You can pick."
"Bismark and 5th," Rahn repeated. "I think I can find that."
"Good. I'll meet you then," Themis said, embracing Rahn lightly before leaving.
Rahn huffed, clutching the chest of his jacket again before trudging inside to lay down and rest for a couple hours before he had to go. Neighbors…he thought to himself, staring at their shared wall before turning the other way and curling up with a frustrated whine.
☾
At a quarter til eight, Rahn headed out to meet up with Themis. After his nap he'd woken up and wrote down a few questions to ask him about his mom just in case the other managed to fluster him and make him lose his train of thought. Around the top of the hour, he had arrived at his destination and with nothing better to do he decided to roam up and down the street, checking out restaurant possibilities for the night.
As he wandered about he felt a sudden chill up his spine, like he was being watched. He glanced around quickly then ducked into an alley behind some discarded pallets. After waiting a moment, he felt that his paranoia might have gotten the better of him and moved to step back out on the street, only to have Ifrit block his way.
"Loveless," Ifrit said, brow furrowing.
"Damn it. Not again," Rahn growled before turning to run the opposite direction only to have Jinn appear at the other end to block his escape.
"You're coming with us," Jinn demanded.
"I'm not this Loveless guy or whoever! My name is Rahn!" he shouted, backing against a wall as the two advanced on him. He braced himself as they got close, unsure what they were going to do to restrain him. Despite taller and more muscular, raising his arms in defense only brought back flashes of a twisted arm and groans of pain. His ears folded as he tried to shut the memory out while the two got closer.
"Two on one. Now that isn't fair," Themis's voice echoed through the alley.
"We're taking Loveless to Quattuordecim! You can't stop us this time Themis," Jinn said, lunging for Rahn.
"Rahn, to me," Themis ordered.
Themis's words breaking through his stupor, Rahn ducked down as Jinn tried to get her arms around him before sliding up against the wall past Ifrit. At Themis's side, he staggered then bent over to catch his breath while the other raised his hand and said, "I declare this a battle of spells."
Jinn and Ifrit froze briefly then straightened up. Rahn saw the flicker of light on their palms once more spelling out their apparent shared name. "We are Flameless…because the embers of our love burn hotter than any fire," the couple said together as they gripped each other's hand.
The dizzying feeling of the battle before came over Rahn. The alley distorted, strings of lights starting to spread wall to wall as the buildings seemed to raise up infinitely. "It's happening again," he breathed out looking around before turning to Themis.
"Don't worry, Rahn. I won't let them take you," Themis said, stepping forward. "I am your sword. To strike where you would not. And to shield you from those who do you harm."
Rahn watched as a ring of light formed about Themis's hand before spinning outward into a circle of swords that quickly pointed toward Flameless and spiraled forward toward them. Jinn's tail flicked as she spread he arms out why.
"All iron is melts in a hot enough inferno. Our passion is eternal, and will burn for eternity," Jinn cried out, creating a haze of heat that acted as a shield, causing the swords to melt at her feat. "And those who try to put us out will find their their intentions soon shattered!"
Themis recoiled, looking around before spotting the windows in the alley crack from the heat then shatter about them. He winced as he felt the glass scrape across his cheek and shoulder. "Rahn," he called out who was shielding himself with his arms over his head as the glass bounced off his jacket.
After a moment Rahn let out a cry, feeling his cheek scrape along with his shoulder. He moved to touch the spot then felt a sudden heaviness around his neck. Grabbing at it, he felt a collar that had not been there before then looked over to Themis who seemed to have one himself with a chain connecting them together. "Wh-what is this?"
"What kind of partner are you that you didn't even warn him!? Are you as cruel as you are debased Themis?" Ifrit called out.
"As I am your Sentouki…you are my sacrifice. Just as before when we fought Flameless, Ifrit took the damage from the spells I inflicted upon them. I wasn't careful with our defenses…I apologize," Themis said to Rahn, brushing his thumb over the cut. "I won't let them hit me again. I promise," he said, kissing the other's cheek before turning back toward Flameless.
"Alright," Rahn said, more annoyed with Jinn and Ifrit than he was worried about being fodder for the battle. It was the least he could do for Themis protecting him. "Just shut them down."
"For you…anything," Themis said, giving Rahn a smile as he looked back at him with the corner of his eye. "You talk of love Flameless but you've yet to weather your first storm. Once passion burns out the deluge of reality sets in."
Thunder cracked above them, followed by a deluge that seemed to center on Jinn. Though just rain it seemed somehow heavy, putting her on her knees. She let out a cry before Ifrit did the same, a collar forming on his neck binding them together.
"It is a heavy burden the feelings another. Soul crushing even when all that binds you is your passion. Love is more than the heat you feel for your partner. There will be days of conflict. When you cannot see eye to eye or must endure the brine of indifference.*
Jinn held herself tighter as Ifrit screamed. The rain sounded sharp, plinking off the ground as if almost hail was upon them. Ifrit began to flail side to side, before crumbling to his knees.
"We yield! We yield!" Jinn cried out.
The rain stopped near immediately as the alleyway once more returned to its dingy form. Jinn slid over to Ifrit, picking his weakened body up, skin red from the downpour. Themis stepped forward, looking down at the pair. "Tell Lahabrea that he can not have Loveless," he said before turning around, putting his arm around Rahn to lead him away.
"S-screw you you monster," Ifrit called out before passing out in Jinn's arms.
☾
Rahn rubbed his stomach as he walked back home with Themis. After the battle, he felt ravenous, inhaling a burger and most of a shared order of fries on his own with little thought to be embarrassed. Themis seemed happy enough to treat him.
Stuffing his hands in his pockets, Rahn felt the list of questions he had made earlier. "So uh…you think they're going to come back. Flameless or whatever they called themselves?" he asked.
"Hopefully they've had their fill," Themis answered. "As you seemed to have this evening."
Rahn folded his ears as he tugged at his pants to loosen them. "I'm a growing young man," he boasted proudly.
Themis laughed. "You certainly are. Though it's a hard sell with your swaying tail," he teased.
"Sh-shut up!" Rahn huffed, face crimson. Clutching the list in his pocket. he inhaled. "Why did my mom send you to me? You said that…the day we met."
"I am meant to be your partner," Themis answered.
"That Sentouki thing? Did she know? About me being Loveless? What does that even mean? I mean…it's just a word isn't it…but those two had their name on their hands…," Rahn continued, staring down at his feet as they walked.
"Yes, she knew you'd become Loveless and need a fighter at your side. It is more than a word, it's who you are," Themis answered. "A name you share with your partner, just like Jinn and Ifrit."
"…so you're Loveless too then?" Rahn asked. "But they said you had another partner before?"
"I did. But I am a special case…, though that is a tale for another day," Themis answered.
"Loveless though…Without love. That's…that's just…awful," Rahn started, stopping briefly before looking up into the night sky, tensing up as Themis's fingers lace into his own from behind.
"You will never be without love, Rahn," Themis cooed, standing quietly after until Rahn, watching what little stars the city did not obscure.
Rahn swallowed, gritting his teeth as he tried to hold back his eyes from welling up, Themis's words striking him at his core. He knew what Themis was saying, and even as strange as it was to hear the words from someone little more than an acquaintance, he was starting to realize how badly he needed to hear them. When a car finally passed, Rahn took a breath and stepped away. "I-I should get home," he said hoarsely.
"We are neighbors," Themis reminded him.
"R-Right…," Rahn said, looking back sheepishly after a quick rub to his eyes. "Just neighbors though…er, friends. So…don't try stealing a kiss or sneak in. Anything and mess all that up. Okay"
Themis smirked. "The next time our lips meet, will be when you ask for them to," he promised.
Rahn's ears flicked high before he turned quickly. "That's not going to happen," he huffed before leading them home.
Chapter 1: Flameless
Original Characters: U'rahn Nunh, Y'mariah Rhul
Featuring: U'odh Nunh, Khloe Aliapoh, Themis/Elidibus, Ifrit
Summary: Five years after his mother's mysterious disappearance and being kicked out of his latest school, Rahn Drake is moved into the city on his own to get through his senior year. Rahn's anger comes from his inability to recall his mother and his family and former friends refusing to talk about her. He mistrusts adults and rebuffs his peers who are more and more finding themselves crossing the threshold into adulthood. After a long first day of school, he's confronted by the mysterious Themis Elidibus who manages to breach Rahn's high walls on the revelation he knew his mother.
Notes: Sparked from a prompt from @sarenraegalpaladin
A Loveless AU
It's been five years. Five years since you died and the memory of your face somehow died with it. Mother…In this ever changing world I am afraid losing more. To forget someone is like another kind of death…
"Rahn! Did you hear me?!"
Rahn jumped as his father yelled at him from the front seat. Pulling off his head phones, he looked into the rearview mirror to meet his father's glances. Hunkered down, he sat up and stretched his legs out across the back of the car. "I was listening to my music," he answered as he leaned forward.
"I was reminding you that we put everything we have into sending you to this school. You need to be your best here. You're an adult now. If you screw up here by getting into fights or skipping classes it's over," his father explained gruffly.
"I know," Rahn said, gritting his teeth. He'd cop to cutting class, but he hadn't raised his first in anger since middle school. That one time was enough. It wasn't like hitting anyone would change who they are, just make them afraid. As for being called an adult, he couldn't stand that either. Adults lied.
"We're here," his father announced, pulling in front of the school. "You've got the keys to the apartment? I'll get the rest of your stuff settled but I will be returning home before you get out if class."
"Yeah. I have them," Rahn said, scooting to get out of the car, slinging his bag over his shoulder as his dad rolled down the window.
"Son…," the man called out, eyes not lifting meet him.
Rahn nodded then held up his phone, snapping a picture of his old man with his tired eyes and greying hair. "I know dad. Me too," he said as he pocketed his phone.
Superstition had the better of them both. It was the last thing his mother had said to him that he couldn't bear to hear again. Just in case it was the last. After waving off his dad quietly, Rahn looked up his new school then headed inside.
-
"It's really an inconvenient time."
It was the fifth time the school counselor repeated herself, flipping through his paperwork as she fussed over where to stick him. An obvious lie, to Rahn, that his arrival slipped her mind. He hated that. His feelings didn't need to be spared with white lies. And yet every adult he knew rather make an excuse or tell him what they wanted to hear than admit something that might hurt his feelings.
"I remember something about someone named Rhul?" Rahn finally chimed in, picking at his feline ear with a finger, recalling their name on some of his paperwork.
"Right, of course. Miss Rhul will be your homeroom teacher. That sounds familiar now," the counselor said, getting up from her seat. "She instructs music as well as language arts. I am sure we've already given her your class schedule. If you'll follow me, this way. Don't dawdle."
Rahn stood up, following the woman quietly, having to take small steps to not over take her stride as he followed her through the halls of his new school. As they passed by windows facing out toward the front of the school, a white light caught his eyes. Focusing on it, he spot a long white-haired man resting against the entry way, earless.
Noticing he'd slowed down the counselor turned and followed his gaze. "A delinquent no doubt. Don't you mind him. Come along now," she beckoned.
"Right," Rahn said, swallowing as the man seemed to turn and meet his gaze from impossibly far away. His heart raced briefly until he turned away to follow his guide, half-listening as she gave a loose tour of the halls they passed as they ascended to the higher levels of the school. On arriving at his class, he was bade to wait in the hall briefly while the counselor fetched his teacher from her lecture.
Rahn was surprised to find that when she came out she still had her ears and tail, not many of her apparent age left with the signs of their youth. He tried not to react to much, not wanting to embarrass her. It wasn't his business anyway.
"Welcome, Rahn! I am Miss Mariah Rhul," she greeted, beckoning him inside to bring to the front of her class. "Alright everyone, we have a transfer student joining us. This is Rahn Drake. Now given that it's the middle of the semester, I expect everyone to be helpful in ensuring he's caught up with the reading. Miss Aliapoh, would you mind sharing your text book with him today?"
Rahn watched the crowd quietly, stuffing his hands in his pocket as they whispered. He was tall for his age, with room to grow and it often brought the worst kind of attention. People wanting to pick fights to prove their toughness…especially now that they were all on the edge of adulthood. He could handle his earless peer's taunting but those who had yet become adults always seemed to have something prove. Luckily he'd gotten good at keeping his head down…at least until the incident at his last school that saw him here.
"Khloe won't mind!" the girl he assumed was Miss Aliapoh called out before leaning in as a bunch of girls started to whisper at her.
Taking a seat next to her, he sat down then looked over at her open book, The War of the Lions. He'd already read it twice. Once for school and before that for fun. Listlessly he rested his cheek on his first and let Miss Rhul resume her lesson.
"Um. Rahn? Khloe wants to know where you're from," his partner eventually whispered.
"The south," he answered vaguely, not interested in small talk.
"The south…okay. Um, then do you play any sports?" she pressed.
Rahn's eyes glanced over to his classmate, watching her lean against quickly scribbled notes then to the watchful eyes on them. "No," he said coldly. "And if you're going to interrogate someone at least be creative enough to come up with your own questions."
"Khloe isn't interrogating…Khloe wants to be your friend," the girl replied, voice getting small.
"I don't want to be yours," Rahn snapped. It was a reflex. He was annoyed and upset. Khloe was clearly being put up to finding out about him by the others and in his cynicism he didn't allow the room for both things to be true
The girl sniffled then recoiled from him, rubbing her eyes as she cried in her seat. No one bothered him for the rest of the day.
-
As the bell rang to end their day, Rahn quickly gathered his things. He wasn't sure what he was hurrying for, nothing waiting at his new place except to unpack. As he crossed the threshold of the school grounds his eyes were once more drawn to the white-haired man waiting patiently by the gate. Their eyes meeting, he blushed then quickly looked away.
"Rahn Drake," a deep voice called to him, the loiterer's.
Nervously he turned around, finding the other coming toward him. If it weren't for being right in front of the school he probably would have already started to run away. "Who wants to know?"
"Elidibus," the man answered, hand reaching out to plant between his cat ears. "Themis Elidibus."
Rahn swallowed, unsure what to do. He was an adult now, but still technically a student. He'd heard that it wasn't uncommon for creeps to try and pick up those who still had their ears and tail. And yet, his hand was warm and comforting. "I was just going home. You're not some stalker creep are you?"
Themis laughed, withdrawing his hand. "Maybe I am…Your mother sent me. L'lolamo."
Rahn's heart raced at the revelation. "You knew my mom? When? You can't be more than a couple years older than I am," he asked, guard falling rapidly in his excitement.
"I did. A long time ago…though it was a bit over five years since I last heard from her," Themis explained.
Rahn shrugged his bag on his shoulder, looking the stranger over once more before looking around. "As long as you don't do something weird...would you want to go to the park and tell me about her a little? Maybe take some pictures together?"
"I would like that, Rahn," Themis said, clasping his hand on Rahn's shoulder before turning him around to walk down the block to a nearby park.
Autumn was upon the city, perineal leaves starting to erupt into browns and golds. Rahn took little time getting his camera out, taking candids of Themis as he looked around the place. "How did you know my mom?" he finally asked as he flipped through the pictures he'd just taken as he sat down on a bench beside Themis.
"She was very important to me when I was younger. Much like a big sister," Themis explained leaning against Rahn as the other held up the camera to face them, capturing them together.
"Were you around? I don't…I don't remember much about that time," Rahn said softly, taking another picture.
Themis hummed, wrapping an arm around Rahn's thigh, pulling him closer. "We knew each other, once," he answered, peering down into Rahn's eyes.
Rahn shivered, finding an intensity in Themis's eyes he couldn't break away from. "I don't remember," he said before lowering his ears. "I hate that. Forgetting someone…it's the worst thing you can do. My mom…I can't even remember her face. Somehow we never had any pictures of her. Just one of me in her arms as a baby but the sun blocks her features out," he said, fidgeting with the camera in his hands.
"Then I will make sure to make lots of memories with you," Themis cooed, hand resting over Rahn's so that he'd stop fumbling with his camera while tilting his chin up high. "I love you, Rahn."
Warmth spread across Rahn's lips as Themis drew his face into his. More than the sudden embrace, Themis's words had caught him off guard. He hadn't heard the words since the last time he saw his mom. He closed his eyes briefly, falling into Themis's arms he was held. His first kiss. The first person to tell him they loved him in five years. Themis as comforting as he was…was still a an adult and a stranger.
Opening his eyes, Rahn pushed the other away. "I said not to do anything weird!" he yelled, moving to stand and grab his things, only to have his wrist grabbed.
"Wait," Themis ordered evenly.
Rahn turned, chest pounding with embarrassment and confusion. Expecting a plea to stay, he instead found Themis focusing on something in the distance. Standing, Themis put himself between him and two approaching eared teenagers, a boy and girl with the ears and tail still in tact.
"Themis?! What are you doing with Loveless!" the girl demanded.
"Jinn, don't provoke him," the boy cautioned.
"Loveless?" U'rahn repeated, looking to Themis confused.
Themis's gaze didn't falter from the pair as he responded, "Your true name."
What a terrible name. Rahn thought to himself as he remained beside the other, more wary of the pair than he was Themis at the moment.
"Stand aside traitor! The Director will have Loveless!" Jinn called out, stepping forward.
Themis shook his head then turned to wrap his arms around Rahn, gaze over his shoulder. "I cannot do that. I am his Sentouki," he said, hand running down Rahn's back.
Before Rahn could ask, Jinn flew into a rage. "You can't be a Sentouki for multiple people! That's cheating… it's…it's just wrong!"
Rahn lowered his ears, Jinn's words going over his head. Themis seemed to ignore them, gazing down into Rahn's eyes as he stroked gingerly down his back. "Just look at me. Don't worry about them," Themis cooed before half-turning toward the pair with his hand raised out toward them.
"He's going to try and battle us! Ifrit!" Jinn called out, partner hurrying up beside her as he was called for.
"I declare this a battle of spells," Themis announced evenly.
The world seem to blur away, to Rahn, into a fantastical night sky with the golden autumn trees to illuminate the surrounding area in an ephemeral light. There seemed to be a light behind Themis's eyes that wasn't there before, making them glow a spectacular blue that he felt he couldn't pull himself from more than a brief second.
"We are Flameless…because the embers of our love burn hotter than any fire," Ifrit and Jinn said as they stepped toward one another, the name Flameless shining on the back of both of their hands. After Jinn turned toward Themis and shouted, "And let those who stand against us become engulfed in a bowl of those embers."
Rahn shivered as he felt heat start to rise up beneath him. He was largely unbothered, home far out in the middle of the desert, but he felt sweat beading at his forehead near immediately. Themis's arm slid to hold him at his side as he watched the couple indifferently. "And yet with the changing of the season, so comes the cold with it. A cold gust from the north biting with the promise of winter to come."
A sudden chill came with Themis's words followed by a rapid gust that did little more than make Rahn's clothes billow. Across from them though, Ifrit and Jinn held up their arms, blocking what appeared to be a much harsher wind that had gathered leaves from the surrounding trees. As a leaf cut across Jinn's face, Ifrit let out a yell and held his cheek instead as a collar of light clasped around their necks, connected by an ethereal chain.
"Are you alright?" Jinn fretted toward her partner, a chain of
Ifrit shook his head. "It's just a scratch," he assured her, holding the mark on his cheek. "Keep going."
"Right," Jinn said before turning back toward Themis, raising her hand high to summon a dark ball that seemed radiate flares of light. "Nothing can make our bond waver. Behold the blistering heat of our love!"
With her words the ball of fire grew larger and larger until it resembled the eclipsed sun. Once more heat poured over Rahn, and yet it did little to deter him pulling from Themis's embrace. Cooley Themis, gently stroked over Rahn's ears. "That is the thing with young love isn't it? It burns intensely and yet often lacks foundation, blown out or away by the winds of change. All that is left in the end is scattered ash."
The wind picked up again, scattering leaves wildly until made into a violent vortex. Rahn felt the intense heat lighten as the screams of Flameless echoed from father and farther away. Themis drew in close once more, threatening to steal another kiss thus making Rahn shut his eyes of nerves. This time he was kissed between his ears, innocently. When he opened his eyes, Themis had stepped away and the park had returned to normal.
"Wh-what was that!? Did you kill them!?" Rahn yelled, tail bristling with anger and confusion.
Themis laughed then shook his head. "I just sent them far away with a simple spell," he assured him before getting down one knee to take Rahn's hand. "I am to be your Sentouki….your fighter. I will serve you in any way you ask of me and protect you from those who would come after you. Our bond is to become as deep as one can be. I love you, Rahn."
Rahn flushed, heart racing as Themis kissed his wrist. He ripped his hand away after. "S-Stay away from me! I don't want anyone to fight or serve me! Y-You're a liar just like all the others!"
With that he fled, running as fast as he could as his heart tried to beat out of his chest. He didn't stop until he arrived at his new apartment, nearly tripping over moving boxes outside unit next to his. Once inside he dropped his things and clumsily tore off his shirt and jeans before heading right to his bed.
Sleep didn't come easily. He kept thinking of Themis kissing him and holding him. Just be when the thought relaxed him he'd wake up, startled by the comfort it brought or the confused burning within him. Themis was, for all he knew, could have just been trying to rob him of his ears and tail…and yet he had said he knew his mother. That even they knew each other when they were little too.
In the middle of his restless attempts at sleep, Rahn got out of bed for water. On his way to his kitchen he stumbled over his bag, knocking the camera out of it. Picking it up, he started to click through the photos while getting his glass with his free hand. Once hydrated, he trudged back to bed, staring at a selfie of him and Themis…He flushed deeply, touching his lips before rolling on his side.
His reticence to interact with the other was faltering. Despite how confused and wound up Themis made him feel, he possibly had answers about his past. About his mother. He could just keep a healthy space between them if he didn't want Themis to kiss or touch him…not that he wanted that at all.
Chapter 2: Pastless
Original Characters: U'rahn Nunh
Featuring: Krile Baldesion, Themis, Ifrit
Summary: In therapy, Rahn finds someone he feels he can trust and allows himself to open up to the idea that Themis could possibly be someone he might rely on if given the opportunity to be honest with him.
Rahn rubbed his shoes together as he leaned forward. Ten minutes had passed but the woman in front of him hadn't said a thing to him other than introduce herself as Dr. Baldesion. Far from him to complain to not be forced to talk, the silence was starting to unnerve him.
"So…are you going to say anything?" Rahn finally asked.
Dr. Baldesion smiled. "I am here to listen."
Crossing his arms, Rahn leaned back. "Yeah? About my problems?"
"If that's what you want to discuss," she responded warmly.
"Well. I'm sure you know all about me from the last person they made me speak with," he said dismissively as he folded his ears back.
Dr. Baldesion hummed, leaning over to pick up his file from her desk. "What I have is a loose collection of observations made by an entirely different person. You don't trust adults. You struggle to relate to your peers. You're angry. Things someone can probably glean easily about you but you are more than that are you not? There are reasons you feel that way, if you even truly feel that way at all. It's not for me to say, but you, in your own time."
Rahn blinked as she flopped the file back down on her desk, surprised at her bluntness. He fumbled with his sleeves a moment. He appreciated the way she talked, straight to the point. A quality most adults lacked. "Right…I guess," he said while rubbing his arm. "I'm not really going to argue with all that though.
"After my mom vanished, it's like everyone pretended that they forgot her. No one would tell me exactly what happened…or that they just didn't know. And refused to talk about her…so, I guess that file is right. It doesn't help that I can't remember things right. I can't even picture her face. I am angry…I don't trust adults to tell me the truth. "
"And that's extended to your peers as well?" Dr. Baldesion asked, seeming to scribble down notes as they spoke.
"Er…I guess. Everyone's losing their ears left and right. Leaping at a chance to become an adult…and being just as fake about it," he said, curling his fingers into his palms. "Some will say anything…hurt anyone…."
A flash of a memory crossed his mind. A girl crying…then laughing… He took in a deep breath then crossed his legs under him, trying not to get too upset in front of his therapist. "So…yeah…"
Dr. Baldesion stopped writing then folded her hands over her notebook. "Do you have someone that you feel safe talking to?"
"You're not so bad…so far," Rahn said, ears perking a bit.
"I am flattered that you've been quick to warm to me; however, I mean outside here," she clarified.
Rahn thought a moment. He was on his own now and he hadn't bothered to make friends at school, keeping his head down since his first day. Then there was Themis…there mere thought made his heart leap. His eyes fell on a small envelope sticking out of his school bag. Though he'd told Themis to leave him alone, he'd still gone to print a copy of their photos to give to him. "I think…I have someone who'd listen if I asked him to," he said, blush creeping across his cheek.
"Well, that's good then. Now, today's session is short given that most people who come are reticent to jump right into things. At the school's request they wish for you to come see me at least once a month until my reports pacify them; however, if you'd like you can schedule time with me more frequently than that. Only if you want though," Dr. Baldesion offered as she leaned over to grab a card from her desk to hand to Rahn. "My number to make an appointment."
Rahn took the card and stared at it a moment before nodding. "Maybe…What are you telling the school?" he asked, raising his brow.
"Well, we've only had a brief talk so nothing more than I think you'll do fine in class and that they need to give you time to adjust to your new school and routine and that I have made myself available to you should you need to talk," she replied warmly.
Rahn searched her face, not sensing that she was lying. Shifting, he pulled out his wallet then stuffed her card in next to his student ID. "Alright. Thank you…," he said before getting up with a stretch. "I'll…I'll think about it. You seem pretty alright."
"I'm glad you think so. My assistant up front will write your note for school that you were here. I really do hope you'll come talk to me soon."
Rahn nodded then picked up his bag, slinging it over his shoulder. On his way out he got his note then headed out of Dr. Baldesion's office and out onto the busy street. A part of him wanted to skip class for the rest of the day, but didn't want to risk getting in trouble. Not to mention he felt that they'd not let him see Dr. Baldesion again if he took her up on her offer.
☾
Class came and went in a blink of an eye. In a better mood and having a little more footing after his first week he had been more inclined to participate, mostly in Literature as he enjoyed it the most. He even took a moment to apologize to Khloe when catching her in the hall. When the day drew to a close he meandered out of the school while his peers went to clubs or headed home. A part of him had hoped Themis would be waiting, but he found the front of the school populated by parents who could afford to pick their kids up.
Heading home, he briefly stopped by the park where they'd gone, feeling his stomach twist as he remembered their embrace and the strange couple that had confronted them. It had all started to feel like a dream, and he might have lent the memory to that if it were not for the pictures of him and Themis together. His heart ached a little. He'd lashed out before he really could get any answers. And…it had been so long since anyone told them they loved him.
Rahn tried to shake off the feeling. There wasn't a reason to feel guilty. Themis was a stranger and had kissed him. That was weird! They were both guys. Also kind of weird! Just as he managed to convince himself he'd done the right thing rebuffing the other, he stomped up the stairs toward his apartment and ran into his new neighbor just as they were leaving.
"Careful," a familiar voice cooed as Rahn felt arms wrap around him.
"Er…," Rahn started before looking up, finding Themis's blue eyes staring down at him. "Th-themis!?"
Themis smiled then let Rahn step out of his embrace. "Apologies, I did not think you'd be home so soon."
"What are you doing here!?" Rahn demanded with a tail thrash. "Y-you say all that stuff to me and then just vanish for a week!"
"I didn't vanish. You told me to stay away, so I did my best to follow your order. Though, I was always close by," he said, gesturing to the door. "In case you changed your mind."
Rahn blushed, folding back his ears shyly as he looked away. "And you moved next door? Don't you think that's a bit stalkery?"
"I don't think you'd believe me if I told you it was a happy coincidence. I do attend the college nearby. Though I'll admit to knowing you'd likely come to live in the area," Themis answered.
Rahn glanced up at Themis. He didn't believe him, but still didn't feel like the other had any ill intent toward him. Especially given that he'd kept his word to not bother him. He imagined it was probably difficult to do given their proximity. "Right…," he said before slugging off his backpack, pulling the envelope of photos out to hand to Themis.
Themis raised his brow then opened the seal, thumbing through the images quietly before offering Rahn a smile. "Thank you," he said holding them to his chest briefly before pocketing them in his satchel. "If you would let me, I'd like to treat you to dinner tonight. That is you don't want me to continue to keep my distance."
Rahn stared a moment. Dinner the past week had mostly been ramen he'd enhanced with things he picked up from the convenience store. While a good cook, he wasn't the best at remembering he needed to make a real run to the grocery store. "I guess we could….just….don't, try to kiss me and stuff," he mumbled, face red. "And maybe tell me some stuff about my mom."
"As you wish," Themis said with a light bow. "Meet me Bismark and 5th at 8:30 at the bus stop. There are a few restaurants there. You can pick."
"Bismark and 5th," Rahn repeated. "I think I can find that."
"Good. I'll meet you then," Themis said, embracing Rahn lightly before leaving.
Rahn huffed, clutching the chest of his jacket again before trudging inside to lay down and rest for a couple hours before he had to go. Neighbors…he thought to himself, staring at their shared wall before turning the other way and curling up with a frustrated whine.
☾
At a quarter til eight, Rahn headed out to meet up with Themis. After his nap he'd woken up and wrote down a few questions to ask him about his mom just in case the other managed to fluster him and make him lose his train of thought. Around the top of the hour, he had arrived at his destination and with nothing better to do he decided to roam up and down the street, checking out restaurant possibilities for the night.
As he wandered about he felt a sudden chill up his spine, like he was being watched. He glanced around quickly then ducked into an alley behind some discarded pallets. After waiting a moment, he felt that his paranoia might have gotten the better of him and moved to step back out on the street, only to have Ifrit block his way.
"Loveless," Ifrit said, brow furrowing.
"Damn it. Not again," Rahn growled before turning to run the opposite direction only to have Jinn appear at the other end to block his escape.
"You're coming with us," Jinn demanded.
"I'm not this Loveless guy or whoever! My name is Rahn!" he shouted, backing against a wall as the two advanced on him. He braced himself as they got close, unsure what they were going to do to restrain him. Despite taller and more muscular, raising his arms in defense only brought back flashes of a twisted arm and groans of pain. His ears folded as he tried to shut the memory out while the two got closer.
"Two on one. Now that isn't fair," Themis's voice echoed through the alley.
"We're taking Loveless to Quattuordecim! You can't stop us this time Themis," Jinn said, lunging for Rahn.
"Rahn, to me," Themis ordered.
Themis's words breaking through his stupor, Rahn ducked down as Jinn tried to get her arms around him before sliding up against the wall past Ifrit. At Themis's side, he staggered then bent over to catch his breath while the other raised his hand and said, "I declare this a battle of spells."
Jinn and Ifrit froze briefly then straightened up. Rahn saw the flicker of light on their palms once more spelling out their apparent shared name. "We are Flameless…because the embers of our love burn hotter than any fire," the couple said together as they gripped each other's hand.
The dizzying feeling of the battle before came over Rahn. The alley distorted, strings of lights starting to spread wall to wall as the buildings seemed to raise up infinitely. "It's happening again," he breathed out looking around before turning to Themis.
"Don't worry, Rahn. I won't let them take you," Themis said, stepping forward. "I am your sword. To strike where you would not. And to shield you from those who do you harm."
Rahn watched as a ring of light formed about Themis's hand before spinning outward into a circle of swords that quickly pointed toward Flameless and spiraled forward toward them. Jinn's tail flicked as she spread he arms out why.
"All iron is melts in a hot enough inferno. Our passion is eternal, and will burn for eternity," Jinn cried out, creating a haze of heat that acted as a shield, causing the swords to melt at her feat. "And those who try to put us out will find their their intentions soon shattered!"
Themis recoiled, looking around before spotting the windows in the alley crack from the heat then shatter about them. He winced as he felt the glass scrape across his cheek and shoulder. "Rahn," he called out who was shielding himself with his arms over his head as the glass bounced off his jacket.
After a moment Rahn let out a cry, feeling his cheek scrape along with his shoulder. He moved to touch the spot then felt a sudden heaviness around his neck. Grabbing at it, he felt a collar that had not been there before then looked over to Themis who seemed to have one himself with a chain connecting them together. "Wh-what is this?"
"What kind of partner are you that you didn't even warn him!? Are you as cruel as you are debased Themis?" Ifrit called out.
"As I am your Sentouki…you are my sacrifice. Just as before when we fought Flameless, Ifrit took the damage from the spells I inflicted upon them. I wasn't careful with our defenses…I apologize," Themis said to Rahn, brushing his thumb over the cut. "I won't let them hit me again. I promise," he said, kissing the other's cheek before turning back toward Flameless.
"Alright," Rahn said, more annoyed with Jinn and Ifrit than he was worried about being fodder for the battle. It was the least he could do for Themis protecting him. "Just shut them down."
"For you…anything," Themis said, giving Rahn a smile as he looked back at him with the corner of his eye. "You talk of love Flameless but you've yet to weather your first storm. Once passion burns out the deluge of reality sets in."
Thunder cracked above them, followed by a deluge that seemed to center on Jinn. Though just rain it seemed somehow heavy, putting her on her knees. She let out a cry before Ifrit did the same, a collar forming on his neck binding them together.
"It is a heavy burden the feelings another. Soul crushing even when all that binds you is your passion. Love is more than the heat you feel for your partner. There will be days of conflict. When you cannot see eye to eye or must endure the brine of indifference.*
Jinn held herself tighter as Ifrit screamed. The rain sounded sharp, plinking off the ground as if almost hail was upon them. Ifrit began to flail side to side, before crumbling to his knees.
"We yield! We yield!" Jinn cried out.
The rain stopped near immediately as the alleyway once more returned to its dingy form. Jinn slid over to Ifrit, picking his weakened body up, skin red from the downpour. Themis stepped forward, looking down at the pair. "Tell Lahabrea that he can not have Loveless," he said before turning around, putting his arm around Rahn to lead him away.
"S-screw you you monster," Ifrit called out before passing out in Jinn's arms.
☾
Rahn rubbed his stomach as he walked back home with Themis. After the battle, he felt ravenous, inhaling a burger and most of a shared order of fries on his own with little thought to be embarrassed. Themis seemed happy enough to treat him.
Stuffing his hands in his pockets, Rahn felt the list of questions he had made earlier. "So uh…you think they're going to come back. Flameless or whatever they called themselves?" he asked.
"Hopefully they've had their fill," Themis answered. "As you seemed to have this evening."
Rahn folded his ears as he tugged at his pants to loosen them. "I'm a growing young man," he boasted proudly.
Themis laughed. "You certainly are. Though it's a hard sell with your swaying tail," he teased.
"Sh-shut up!" Rahn huffed, face crimson. Clutching the list in his pocket. he inhaled. "Why did my mom send you to me? You said that…the day we met."
"I am meant to be your partner," Themis answered.
"That Sentouki thing? Did she know? About me being Loveless? What does that even mean? I mean…it's just a word isn't it…but those two had their name on their hands…," Rahn continued, staring down at his feet as they walked.
"Yes, she knew you'd become Loveless and need a fighter at your side. It is more than a word, it's who you are," Themis answered. "A name you share with your partner, just like Jinn and Ifrit."
"…so you're Loveless too then?" Rahn asked. "But they said you had another partner before?"
"I did. But I am a special case…, though that is a tale for another day," Themis answered.
"Loveless though…Without love. That's…that's just…awful," Rahn started, stopping briefly before looking up into the night sky, tensing up as Themis's fingers lace into his own from behind.
"You will never be without love, Rahn," Themis cooed, standing quietly after until Rahn, watching what little stars the city did not obscure.
Rahn swallowed, gritting his teeth as he tried to hold back his eyes from welling up, Themis's words striking him at his core. He knew what Themis was saying, and even as strange as it was to hear the words from someone little more than an acquaintance, he was starting to realize how badly he needed to hear them. When a car finally passed, Rahn took a breath and stepped away. "I-I should get home," he said hoarsely.
"We are neighbors," Themis reminded him.
"R-Right…," Rahn said, looking back sheepishly after a quick rub to his eyes. "Just neighbors though…er, friends. So…don't try stealing a kiss or sneak in. Anything and mess all that up. Okay"
Themis smirked. "The next time our lips meet, will be when you ask for them to," he promised.
Rahn's ears flicked high before he turned quickly. "That's not going to happen," he huffed before leading them home.
X'vahl goes for a run every morning whenever he is able to, and he's been able to a lot while in Tuliyollal. Only problem is, I kept thinking that he would be a bit bored if he was out there alone (I don't think Erenville would actually go for a run with him but he would be there after he got back to see him all sweaty and winded what? Who said that?!). But after I got to thinking, I 100% believe that Lamaty'i would be out there with him rising before the sun to greet the day with a run around the city!
