[Video / Open to Both Courts]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[The locket is resting in the palm of Vanyel's right hand as he sits under a tree. His legs are crossed and his eyes are closed.]

No matter how hard I push, the barrier remains intact. [His eyelids open, revealing silver irises.] I have used every spell in my arsenal to test our colorful prison, but to no effect.

[Sadly, he isn't surprised.]

Do hot springs exist? I know I could put them to good use.

[How can he feel so old when he's so young? Rising and shifting the locket so his face stays in view, he stretches carefully. Old wounds are a pain.]

I would not wholly mind some company should I visit them either. The Tayledras are completely without shame where their hot springs are concerned. I promise to not follow in their footsteps.

[Meaning he will wear something instead of being fully nude.]

Comments

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

It's bad that I struggled with it for so long. Goddess, Stef, I thought there was something wrong with me even when I was with the Tayledras.

[Action]

[wildgift]

That isn't what I meant and you know it.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Do I look unhappy? I want to be the way I am - with you.

[Action]

[wildgift]

So why don't you? It isn't as if there's anything here to stop you.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

You're right. [He stands up and takes a deep breath.] Let's head back.

[Action]

[wildgift]

[Stef smiles up at him for a moment then stands.]

Lead the way, oh glorious Herald.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[He grabs one of Stefen's hands and entwines their fingers.]

If you keep that up, I'll have to silence you.

[Action]

[wildgift]

And how do you propose to do that?

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[With a surprisingly quick and graceful dip, Vanyel captures Stefen's lips in a searing kiss, running his tongue over the soft flesh before he pulls back.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

[There are a few moments of surprise before Stefen laughs.]

Alright, I do believe that would work.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[A small grin follows and Vanyel gently leads the way.]

Don't test me, Master Bard.

[Action]

[wildgift]

I will certainly do my utmost to keep that in mind.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I've... [He squeezes Stefen's hand.] never been open with -

This will be the first time.

[Action]

[wildgift]

Then I hope you enjoy it.

I also hope you'll forgive me if I'm insufferably smug that I've got you all to myself.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[Color rushes to his cheeks and he laughs softly.]

I won't blame you. [He'll probably feel a little smug - a little like a peacock - himself.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

Thank you ever so much for putting up with me, Herald.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

It has been a pleasure. [Quite literally.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

Well I certainly hope it will continue to be as well.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Being near you is pleasurable. [He sends a rush of affection through their bond.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

Perhaps I'll just have to stay near you, then. [Apparently he still hasn't learned what shame is, though.]

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I'd rather you touch me. [Apparently that sickness is rubbing off.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

I could be agreeable to that.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Could? [He chuckles throatily.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

Am? Is that any better?

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

In full view of a crowd?