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[Well. The silver lining to this. Is that, at the very least, the coffin isn't somehow crammed in here with them too...
Closets are still not generally very well-suited to holding two people at once, though. Even unnatural closets manned by some incredibly rude invisible entity--"invisible", because there sure hadn't been anyone else in the room at the time, had there? When, upon opening this wardrobe's door to check inside--Blade hovering warily beside him--the both of them had been quite forcibly shoved in by a force unseen, the door slamming quite firmly shut behind them.
And now here they are.
It's quite dark, of course, save for the outline of the closet door in itself, the lighting of the room outside seeping through the cracks but illuminating little. No sign of a light switch even with some fumbling at the walls. Luocha sighs, and tries to turn around...whoops, accidentally stepping back into Blade. Also accidentally bumping an elbow into his--side, probably? ...Oh, alright, so that was definitely his chest he just accidentally put a hand on. Okay. Turning around may already be proving harder than anticipated...]
--My apologies. Are you alright? I can't seem to reach the door from here, so it may need to be you. [To find the handle, of course. To open this closet and get them out, of course!] ...Quite an uninspired prank. Rest assured this is not at all what I was looking for here...
[In fact, Luocha is starting to rather strongly suspect that this entire stop may have been a wash altogether in the business sense, but well. That'll be a bridge to cross in a few minutes, once they're back out. ...It should only take a few minutes, right?]
( ooc. your worldbuilding powers tho... eats them up )
[ It should only take a few minutes, and yet that's not what happens.
After the first few adventures, filled with shenanigans, Blade thinks he's grown used to the random odd scenario happening here and there. It seems to just naturally come with the territory, while he travels the galaxy with his current employer, especially given the myriad of planets they visit with their own set of quirks. Getting shoved inside a closet, however, appears to have caught both of them off guard. Blade even more so than usual, because it's new. A mercenary like him doesn't end up in situations like this quite often.
There's a first time for everything, he supposes.
The closet affords them very little space. It's proven easily when Luocha all but places a palm on his chest, but he barely reacts to it. No need to make this any more awkward than it already is... Then again, it's not like this is the first time they've had to get nice and cozy. ]
I'm fine. I'll have a look.
[ To the point, as always. His hand feels around for anything that resembles a handle and... finds none. It's a flat surface no matter where he touches. ]
... I don't think there's a way to open this. I can't find the handle. [ ... ] Is it not on your end?
[ If it's a prank, then maybe they've done things in reverse? The way out is actually in front of them? ]
[ It should only take a few minutes, and yet that's not what happens.
After the first few adventures, filled with shenanigans, Blade thinks he's grown used to the random odd scenario happening here and there. It seems to just naturally come with the territory, while he travels the galaxy with his current employer, especially given the myriad of planets they visit with their own set of quirks. Getting shoved inside a closet, however, appears to have caught both of them off guard. Blade even more so than usual, because it's new. A mercenary like him doesn't end up in situations like this quite often.
There's a first time for everything, he supposes.
The closet affords them very little space. It's proven easily when Luocha all but places a palm on his chest, but he barely reacts to it. No need to make this any more awkward than it already is... Then again, it's not like this is the first time they've had to get nice and cozy. ]
I'm fine. I'll have a look.
[ To the point, as always. His hand feels around for anything that resembles a handle and... finds none. It's a flat surface no matter where he touches. ]
... I don't think there's a way to open this. I can't find the handle. [ ... ] Is it not on your end?
[ If it's a prank, then maybe they've done things in reverse? The way out is actually in front of them? ]
[Mercenaries don't usually end up in situations like this, and merchants generally don't either, all told. Honestly, closet-shoving probably shouldn't be that common in the known universe overall...surely. ...But that just means they've tripped upon a stroke of impressively bad luck here, yet again. Perhaps by now Blade has started to notice it, the paltry fortune Luocha tends to carry about on his travels wherever he goes...he might joke about it sometimes, but really though.....
At the least, Blade's agreeable traits of "not making things weird" and "going straight to the point" readily emerge in the sort of way Luocha has come to find reassuringly reliable. This sure isn't the first time they've had to share close quarters, at this point...but, still. For his own part he's not letting that hand linger on Blade's chest for longer than a second or so anyhow, though Blade's complete lack of reaction to it is also very appreciated. Instead he's moving right on to getting the door back open, which is just as well, since--
--Hmm? There's no way to open it?]
There is no handle over there? ...I suppose this might be a sort of closet with a one-sided entrance... [Since, technically, most closets likely aren't designed with closing in people as an intention. ...But that would mean rather unfortunate news for the two of them here and now, so. Yeah, hold that thought--] The other end, however--right, that's not a bad idea either. Let me try to check.
[There's even a couple of old coats hanging towards the back, because of course there would be, goodness forbid this whole affair be too easy. Anyway, pushing those aside, and then shifting forward to plant his hands along the closet's back...after a moment or two, there's a dissatisfied hum from Luocha's end.]
Hmph. It appears solid. I do not think there is a door here either...and so our options are--oh? [Hold up. There are a few more shuffling noises.] ...Wait, there seems to be something hanging here. Flat, with a frame...a picture? [????] Or--perhaps some sort of placard? ...A light would certainly be useful about now...
At the least, Blade's agreeable traits of "not making things weird" and "going straight to the point" readily emerge in the sort of way Luocha has come to find reassuringly reliable. This sure isn't the first time they've had to share close quarters, at this point...but, still. For his own part he's not letting that hand linger on Blade's chest for longer than a second or so anyhow, though Blade's complete lack of reaction to it is also very appreciated. Instead he's moving right on to getting the door back open, which is just as well, since--
--Hmm? There's no way to open it?]
There is no handle over there? ...I suppose this might be a sort of closet with a one-sided entrance... [Since, technically, most closets likely aren't designed with closing in people as an intention. ...But that would mean rather unfortunate news for the two of them here and now, so. Yeah, hold that thought--] The other end, however--right, that's not a bad idea either. Let me try to check.
[There's even a couple of old coats hanging towards the back, because of course there would be, goodness forbid this whole affair be too easy. Anyway, pushing those aside, and then shifting forward to plant his hands along the closet's back...after a moment or two, there's a dissatisfied hum from Luocha's end.]
Hmph. It appears solid. I do not think there is a door here either...and so our options are--oh? [Hold up. There are a few more shuffling noises.] ...Wait, there seems to be something hanging here. Flat, with a frame...a picture? [????] Or--perhaps some sort of placard? ...A light would certainly be useful about now...
[ Since it has been happening more and more often, Blade wonders if there is some truth behind Luocha's statement regarding his bad luck. At first, he thought it was just his imagination, but nowadays, it's looking more likely that they'll be haunted by this regardless of where they go. It's even hard to consider the fact that most situations they end up in are ultimately "harmless" when it happens so frequently. Alas, there's not much he can do about it now.
When Luocha confirms that there's no door on the other side either, he begins thinking about the best ways to break through their confinement. He's got the strength, after all, to destroy what needs to go down, but then— ]
A placard? Let me see.
[ He excuses himself quietly before he tries to shimmy his way over to where said placard was found. It's a tight fit, but neither of them is carrying anything to light things up in here, so his eyesight would be the closest thing. Even still, the complete darkness makes it a hard read. ]
... There's a story on it. It's hard to make out, but I think—
[ He narrates the part that involves two souls walking into a box where they need to pay a price. One kiss is all that's needed, and then they'll be set free. ]
Is it a riddle?
When Luocha confirms that there's no door on the other side either, he begins thinking about the best ways to break through their confinement. He's got the strength, after all, to destroy what needs to go down, but then— ]
A placard? Let me see.
[ He excuses himself quietly before he tries to shimmy his way over to where said placard was found. It's a tight fit, but neither of them is carrying anything to light things up in here, so his eyesight would be the closest thing. Even still, the complete darkness makes it a hard read. ]
... There's a story on it. It's hard to make out, but I think—
[ He narrates the part that involves two souls walking into a box where they need to pay a price. One kiss is all that's needed, and then they'll be set free. ]
Is it a riddle?
A story...?
[It sure is a bit of a tight squeeze, as Blade shifts over to have a look for himself. Try as Luocha might to flatten himself accordingly against a wall to one side...now that they're both occupying this end of the closet, their shoulders end up bumping a bit anyway--another mildly awkward thing to be happening twice in a weirdly short span of time. Let's worry less about that, though, and more about what Blade's able to make out a bit painstakingly--
Luocha's frown in turn is a practically audible thing.]
That's...well. Exceptionally direct language, for a riddle. If we take that simply as surface-level instruction, though, it would mean...
[...........Well.
Honestly, maybe. It's a bit of a silver lining after all, that it's rather too dark in here for either of them to see each other's faces. In the brief pause that falls, Luocha doesn't have to avert his eyes from Blade, and Blade doesn't have to see the look that crosses his face either, so all that's left to do now is keep his tone perfectly composed. Composed, and not hinting even a bit at the very weird combo of brief feeling he finds himself suddenly having: something that's somewhere between exasperated and...
No, surely, the solution can't actually be as compromisingly simple as that--]
Of course, conclusions shouldn't be jumped to in a situation like this. [Maybe that came out a bit too abrupt, after that pause just a bit too long, but let's not worry about that. More importantly!! There's a slight shift of movenent, where Luocha's standing, as he cranes his attention back in the direction of the closet door.] ...Let's properly assess our options first. Blade, do you think you may be able to break open that door by force? Provided I stay out of the way back here, to give you an optimal amount of room to work with...
[It sure is a bit of a tight squeeze, as Blade shifts over to have a look for himself. Try as Luocha might to flatten himself accordingly against a wall to one side...now that they're both occupying this end of the closet, their shoulders end up bumping a bit anyway--another mildly awkward thing to be happening twice in a weirdly short span of time. Let's worry less about that, though, and more about what Blade's able to make out a bit painstakingly--
Luocha's frown in turn is a practically audible thing.]
That's...well. Exceptionally direct language, for a riddle. If we take that simply as surface-level instruction, though, it would mean...
[...........Well.
Honestly, maybe. It's a bit of a silver lining after all, that it's rather too dark in here for either of them to see each other's faces. In the brief pause that falls, Luocha doesn't have to avert his eyes from Blade, and Blade doesn't have to see the look that crosses his face either, so all that's left to do now is keep his tone perfectly composed. Composed, and not hinting even a bit at the very weird combo of brief feeling he finds himself suddenly having: something that's somewhere between exasperated and...
No, surely, the solution can't actually be as compromisingly simple as that--]
Of course, conclusions shouldn't be jumped to in a situation like this. [Maybe that came out a bit too abrupt, after that pause just a bit too long, but let's not worry about that. More importantly!! There's a slight shift of movenent, where Luocha's standing, as he cranes his attention back in the direction of the closet door.] ...Let's properly assess our options first. Blade, do you think you may be able to break open that door by force? Provided I stay out of the way back here, to give you an optimal amount of room to work with...
[ It might be a tight fit, but it's not the first time they've had to share a personal bubble so Blade hardly pays it any mind. Of course, if he had a say in the matter, he would rather they weren't in this situation, since that would mean they aren't stuck in a closet with no easy way out. Until they locate this placard with the weirdest riddle known to mankind— and what's worse, Luocha is implying it might not even be a riddle in the first place. ]
... Right.
[ First things first: they might as well exhaust every other possible avenue. He moves towards the opposite side, right where the "door" closed shut behind them. There's not much room for him for him to simply slam into the wooden surface so he does the next best thing— which is punching it with all the force he can muster. Repeatedly. Which is growing sillier by the second, but hey. They might as well try this one before giving up.
But after a while, it becomes clear that this isn't going to work. His closed fist rests against the door before he shakes his head at Luocha. ]
Got any other ideas?
[ Because the alternative would be to consider the placard again, and surely...? There must be another way? ]
Unless you'd rather do what the story is talking about.
... Right.
[ First things first: they might as well exhaust every other possible avenue. He moves towards the opposite side, right where the "door" closed shut behind them. There's not much room for him for him to simply slam into the wooden surface so he does the next best thing— which is punching it with all the force he can muster. Repeatedly. Which is growing sillier by the second, but hey. They might as well try this one before giving up.
But after a while, it becomes clear that this isn't going to work. His closed fist rests against the door before he shakes his head at Luocha. ]
Got any other ideas?
[ Because the alternative would be to consider the placard again, and surely...? There must be another way? ]
Unless you'd rather do what the story is talking about.
[Quite literally trying to punch a way out of this closet sure is kind of silly no matter how one really slices it huh.....the good news on that front, at least, is that Luocha is the only one around to see it happen right now. Not to mention the fact that it's too dark to actually see how ridiculous it looks either, and also sometimes ridiculous times call for ridiculous measures. This brief lapse of dignity will be a secret kept safe within the confines of this closet, if nothing else!
(Not that it'll be the only secret staying in this closet forever, as they're soon to discover, but anyway......)
The bad news, of course, is that the punching does not actually work at all whatsoever. Not even necessarily for a lack of strength on Blade's part, either. Luocha is sighing sharply himself afterwards, something a bit surprised in the draw of breath. Because--]
Hmm--just now, when you were making that attempt, I sensed...there is some sort of power at work here. Holding that door shut. Not the result of an individual, but... [Well, frowning up at the closet ceiling is also completely useless at the moment, but still.] This entire compartment might be some sort of...curio?
[He's ever heard of one exactly like this...though then again, it's said there are a countless number of curios in the universe, in countless variations. Not that he has the faintest idea what function a curio like this is supposed to have...
But this revelation doesn't exactly solve the problem either way, and Blade brings up the question of the hour. Luocha is quiet for another moment or so, clearly mulling for any other ideas himself...but, honestly, it's difficult to think of any other metaphor that placard might be implying. And physically breaking out in any other way doesn't seem to actually be an option. So much for other options to check first. ...Hmmm....]
...I do not want to do anything you wouldn't be willing to do. [At length the answer comes, the words set down slowly. But there's an audible shifting sound too, and a couple steps, as Luocha draws back over to Blade.] I'm still unsure of any other way to read that "riddle" over there, but. [....] May I see your hand, at the least?
[You know, the one you were just using to punch a door for a hot minute.]
(Not that it'll be the only secret staying in this closet forever, as they're soon to discover, but anyway......)
The bad news, of course, is that the punching does not actually work at all whatsoever. Not even necessarily for a lack of strength on Blade's part, either. Luocha is sighing sharply himself afterwards, something a bit surprised in the draw of breath. Because--]
Hmm--just now, when you were making that attempt, I sensed...there is some sort of power at work here. Holding that door shut. Not the result of an individual, but... [Well, frowning up at the closet ceiling is also completely useless at the moment, but still.] This entire compartment might be some sort of...curio?
[He's ever heard of one exactly like this...though then again, it's said there are a countless number of curios in the universe, in countless variations. Not that he has the faintest idea what function a curio like this is supposed to have...
But this revelation doesn't exactly solve the problem either way, and Blade brings up the question of the hour. Luocha is quiet for another moment or so, clearly mulling for any other ideas himself...but, honestly, it's difficult to think of any other metaphor that placard might be implying. And physically breaking out in any other way doesn't seem to actually be an option. So much for other options to check first. ...Hmmm....]
...I do not want to do anything you wouldn't be willing to do. [At length the answer comes, the words set down slowly. But there's an audible shifting sound too, and a couple steps, as Luocha draws back over to Blade.] I'm still unsure of any other way to read that "riddle" over there, but. [....] May I see your hand, at the least?
[You know, the one you were just using to punch a door for a hot minute.]
[This is a sort of planet that tends towards a rainier climate; it certainly doesn't make things any simpler. It's too easy to lose Fragmentum monsters in the misty fog...and companions, too, in the thick of the fray. This is a concern that niggles about now, even as Luocha manages to hold his own one on one against a particularly tenacious Voidranger. One, two blades parried, and then a drive of the tip of his rapier through a very precise weak spot in the torso--
But he isn't pausing long enough afterwards to watch it disintegrate. Instead Luocha moves right on from there, breath puffing in the cool air to join the mist that swirls, steps hasty and eyes darting as he scans the winding mountain path.]
Dan Heng?
[He was just this way--Luocha's sure of that much, though Dan Heng had been getting into a clash of his own before the footwork of the fight had swept him out of sight. Now, though, sounds of battle drift through the air no longer...and--ah?
There, a head of dark hair and the customary green of his garb. But his silhouette is curled on the ground...which is hardly a posture that bodes well. Luocha's steps quicken.]
Dan Heng! [Kneeling down beside him, he's already reaching to check the young man's vitals, a gloved hand curling over one wrist while he scans his overall body for signs of injury.] Speak, if possible--can you hear me?
But he isn't pausing long enough afterwards to watch it disintegrate. Instead Luocha moves right on from there, breath puffing in the cool air to join the mist that swirls, steps hasty and eyes darting as he scans the winding mountain path.]
Dan Heng?
[He was just this way--Luocha's sure of that much, though Dan Heng had been getting into a clash of his own before the footwork of the fight had swept him out of sight. Now, though, sounds of battle drift through the air no longer...and--ah?
There, a head of dark hair and the customary green of his garb. But his silhouette is curled on the ground...which is hardly a posture that bodes well. Luocha's steps quicken.]
Dan Heng! [Kneeling down beside him, he's already reaching to check the young man's vitals, a gloved hand curling over one wrist while he scans his overall body for signs of injury.] Speak, if possible--can you hear me?
... A curio.
[ Blade almost sounds exasperated at that point. It makes sense that it would be something like that, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. This just means that whatever logical solutions they may come up with will likely fall short of getting them out of here, which would typically be fine and dandy, except this particular curio is asking for an even more ridiculous exchange.
If the story is truly the key here, then it just means they'll have to do exactly what it asks, right?
He can't help but sigh again, but rather than voice his further frustrations, he gives Luocha his hand without much complaint. It's the gloved one so it's hard to see the bruises he might have gained after that brief punching session. You know he's really annoyed when he doesn't even cause a fuss over the other man offering to heal him up. ]
If it's the only way to get out of here, doesn't that mean we have no choice? We can forget about it after we're done here.
[ Surely that's also what Luocha wants to happen... Right? ]
[ Blade almost sounds exasperated at that point. It makes sense that it would be something like that, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. This just means that whatever logical solutions they may come up with will likely fall short of getting them out of here, which would typically be fine and dandy, except this particular curio is asking for an even more ridiculous exchange.
If the story is truly the key here, then it just means they'll have to do exactly what it asks, right?
He can't help but sigh again, but rather than voice his further frustrations, he gives Luocha his hand without much complaint. It's the gloved one so it's hard to see the bruises he might have gained after that brief punching session. You know he's really annoyed when he doesn't even cause a fuss over the other man offering to heal him up. ]
If it's the only way to get out of here, doesn't that mean we have no choice? We can forget about it after we're done here.
[ Surely that's also what Luocha wants to happen... Right? ]
[Ah, the true dire shape of the situation's definitely becoming clear indeed, with the way Blade gives over his hand without even a hint of the usual begrudging hesitation preceding a healing. Not that Luocha can blame the man in the least for his exasperation at this point...curios in action are, after all, either surprisingly good news or astoundingly bad news, with rather few exceptions between. As it goes, when common physical laws and logic are bent into strange angles. The one silver lining here is that this setup at least hasn't turned actually lethal, but...
Well, mortification is its own sort of suffering. Of a kind. And it sure is starting to look...like they're going to have to power through some of it.
Luocha mulls over Blade's words with a quiet hum. Slender but firm fingertips curl deftly over Blade's wrist, while he lifts his left hand and the charm hanging there over it. The bruises would have been hard to make out even in better lighting, yes, but Luocha can take half a guess that at least a few have formed. Punching immovable objects tends to do that.]
...A concession made that will be a secret kept later, hm? ...So, as things stand presently, you wouldn't find it objectionable...
[Even as he's coaxing up a small and brief sprout of healing--tiny petals of a very small phantom flower flickering a moment in the gloom between them--Luocha's thoughts are still rather elsewhere. Assessing the choice that now remains to them...and the fact that Blade, at least, seems willing to get flexible for the sake of thoroughly putting this behind them later. (Which, might, be easier said than done, but--) ...As always, the most practical and direct of sentiments. That really does make this easier, doesn't it? ...Yes...so, in that case...]
Well, mortification is its own sort of suffering. Of a kind. And it sure is starting to look...like they're going to have to power through some of it.
Luocha mulls over Blade's words with a quiet hum. Slender but firm fingertips curl deftly over Blade's wrist, while he lifts his left hand and the charm hanging there over it. The bruises would have been hard to make out even in better lighting, yes, but Luocha can take half a guess that at least a few have formed. Punching immovable objects tends to do that.]
...A concession made that will be a secret kept later, hm? ...So, as things stand presently, you wouldn't find it objectionable...
[Even as he's coaxing up a small and brief sprout of healing--tiny petals of a very small phantom flower flickering a moment in the gloom between them--Luocha's thoughts are still rather elsewhere. Assessing the choice that now remains to them...and the fact that Blade, at least, seems willing to get flexible for the sake of thoroughly putting this behind them later. (Which, might, be easier said than done, but--) ...As always, the most practical and direct of sentiments. That really does make this easier, doesn't it? ...Yes...so, in that case...]
Edited (me finding typos like 15 hrs later, cries....dont look at this--) 2023-08-27 15:01 (UTC)
[ It's not as if Blade finds this any easier to push through. Despite being the first to make the suggestion, his mind is filled with thoughts that are racing around a mile per minute. This isn't the first time that they were forced into a situation that made them rely on something intimate in order to survive, but that doesn't mean he would be able to just forget about it later on. He can say that's what will happen all he wants, and yet he knows better.
Part of their dynamic will be changed after this. They no longer will simply be a merchant and his bodyguard. But who knows if he even wants to go and unpack that. He certainly isn't going to be the one to bring it up.
When he feels that familiar warmth take away the pain from his hand, he doesn't quite expect Luocha to plant a kiss on top of bruised knuckles either. He should be thankful that the glow from that blossom of the abyss doesn't illuminate the shock that crosses his face. He's not even sure how he would react to it if Luocha were to notice it. ]
... Let's see if that worked.
[ His other hand, the one not kissed by the other— the one Luocha isn't holding onto, scrambles for purchase in the dark, looking to see if the closet will set them free now that the price has been paid.
It doesn't budge. ]
Part of their dynamic will be changed after this. They no longer will simply be a merchant and his bodyguard. But who knows if he even wants to go and unpack that. He certainly isn't going to be the one to bring it up.
When he feels that familiar warmth take away the pain from his hand, he doesn't quite expect Luocha to plant a kiss on top of bruised knuckles either. He should be thankful that the glow from that blossom of the abyss doesn't illuminate the shock that crosses his face. He's not even sure how he would react to it if Luocha were to notice it. ]
... Let's see if that worked.
[ His other hand, the one not kissed by the other— the one Luocha isn't holding onto, scrambles for purchase in the dark, looking to see if the closet will set them free now that the price has been paid.
It doesn't budge. ]
[--Well. Damn. It was probably a bit too much to hope that this would be so easy, huh...Luocha sighs, as Blade tests their barrier of exit and announces the result. (Though he still hadn't entirely lowered Blade's wrist from his mouth, yet, which means there's a bit of warm breath unintentionally painting over his knuckles as well now, whoops--)]
Hmmm. I had rather hoped the least intrusive option would be acceptable...but it seems not.
[The neutral musing of his tone is probably rather ill-befitting the increasingly obligated intimacy of the situation--but, that's hardly to say that Luocha himself is entirely unaffected. Not when it does actually take a bit of effort, to keep his tone so even. Not when he can't help but already feel a bit keyed-in to Blade's every reaction, as they begin to stray into this odd territory. In the dark his expression can't be made out, no, and that's certainly a small blessing in its own way...but there's other, subtler cues to work with--things that even holding a wrist gives away, just a little. Was there a stiffening of surprise, in Blade's frame? An uptick, in that pulse point still incidentally underneath Luocha's thumb? Even that reach for the closet door was a distracted thing. Little hints, that paint a little picture, filling in what the darkness cannot, and it almost makes Luocha wish he could see the look on Blade's face. ...Almost. Of course, not truly.
Not if they are still simply a merchant and his bodyguard. ...Where a merchant would surely not be entertaining even brief thoughts like these, about his bodyguard--
(Ah, there really is...going to be a lot to unpack, after this. How long will they be able to mutually avert their eyes from that luggage, before they're outright tripping over it?)]
Some trial and error may be warranted after all. ...I suppose I did not give you much warning, with that--my apologies. I was attempting to "nip it in the bud", as it were... [You know, like ripping off a bandaid, or something. That particular element of surprise is now past, though.Unexpectedly intriguing as it might have been to observe--] ...I think...perhaps I will try your cheek next. Would that be alright?
Hmmm. I had rather hoped the least intrusive option would be acceptable...but it seems not.
[The neutral musing of his tone is probably rather ill-befitting the increasingly obligated intimacy of the situation--but, that's hardly to say that Luocha himself is entirely unaffected. Not when it does actually take a bit of effort, to keep his tone so even. Not when he can't help but already feel a bit keyed-in to Blade's every reaction, as they begin to stray into this odd territory. In the dark his expression can't be made out, no, and that's certainly a small blessing in its own way...but there's other, subtler cues to work with--things that even holding a wrist gives away, just a little. Was there a stiffening of surprise, in Blade's frame? An uptick, in that pulse point still incidentally underneath Luocha's thumb? Even that reach for the closet door was a distracted thing. Little hints, that paint a little picture, filling in what the darkness cannot, and it almost makes Luocha wish he could see the look on Blade's face. ...Almost. Of course, not truly.
Not if they are still simply a merchant and his bodyguard. ...Where a merchant would surely not be entertaining even brief thoughts like these, about his bodyguard--
(Ah, there really is...going to be a lot to unpack, after this. How long will they be able to mutually avert their eyes from that luggage, before they're outright tripping over it?)]
Some trial and error may be warranted after all. ...I suppose I did not give you much warning, with that--my apologies. I was attempting to "nip it in the bud", as it were... [You know, like ripping off a bandaid, or something. That particular element of surprise is now past, though.
[ At least Blade can take comfort in the fact that both of them are aiming to make this as painless as possible. Perhaps they might not be able to avoid the awkwardness factor later on, but at least they can get this over with as soon as they can. Or so Luocha has tried, and then failed to do. It figures that it wouldn't be that easy, but sometimes... Sometimes, you can't help but wish that it was, you know?
He sighs. ]
It would have been nice if it worked.
[ It sure would have, but alas. At least he doesn't try to retrieve his hand from Luocha's grip. He is, however, looking at where the man is holding him, as if questioning why he hasn't let go. It's something that he'll be thinking about while he agrees with the next line of action: ]
... Go ahead.
[ He continues to be thankful that the darkness will hide away the look on his face. It's not quite shy, not really, because he doesn't know that emotion anymore, but it's something close to it. Who knew someone like him would find himself in a situation like this? ]
He sighs. ]
It would have been nice if it worked.
[ It sure would have, but alas. At least he doesn't try to retrieve his hand from Luocha's grip. He is, however, looking at where the man is holding him, as if questioning why he hasn't let go. It's something that he'll be thinking about while he agrees with the next line of action: ]
... Go ahead.
[ He continues to be thankful that the darkness will hide away the look on his face. It's not quite shy, not really, because he doesn't know that emotion anymore, but it's something close to it. Who knew someone like him would find himself in a situation like this? ]
[There's really no need to keep holding Blade's hand at all. The bruises have been healed, and a chaste iteration of a kiss there has been attempted; there's nothing else to be done with it, all told. Blade has every reason to wonder about it...and Luocha wouldn't be surprised if he were. Yet he also doesn't pull away, and doesn't question it aloud, and so...Luocha simply doesn't release it either.
There's no good excuse for that. ......How long has it been, since he last held anyone's hand like this?
--Since he's done what he's about to try now?
--Since he was this close, to someone warm and breathing? Like this. Drawing a pace forward as he does, when Blade states his acquiescence, and thus reducing the already crowded space between them to practically nothing at all. In that ruined building on the icy outskirts of Belobog they'd been obligated to settle close, yes, but that was still rather different from what this is now. As one hand remains gently closed around Blade's wrist, and the other settles on his shoulder--the better to get an idea of where his head's positioned in the dark. You know. Then, gauging angle by his silhouette in the low light alongside that...
The kiss is still light and prudent, at least, a brief and warm press on his cheek. While the scent of white irises crowds in again.]
...There. [Though Luocha doesn't properly pull away just yet; he already has a bit of a suspicion where the results this time are concerned, after all, and in one sense he's resigning himself to the proximity of the inevitable. But since Blade is the one with his back against the door, and free hands nearest the handle--] Any change this time?
There's no good excuse for that. ......How long has it been, since he last held anyone's hand like this?
--Since he's done what he's about to try now?
--Since he was this close, to someone warm and breathing? Like this. Drawing a pace forward as he does, when Blade states his acquiescence, and thus reducing the already crowded space between them to practically nothing at all. In that ruined building on the icy outskirts of Belobog they'd been obligated to settle close, yes, but that was still rather different from what this is now. As one hand remains gently closed around Blade's wrist, and the other settles on his shoulder--the better to get an idea of where his head's positioned in the dark. You know. Then, gauging angle by his silhouette in the low light alongside that...
The kiss is still light and prudent, at least, a brief and warm press on his cheek. While the scent of white irises crowds in again.]
...There. [Though Luocha doesn't properly pull away just yet; he already has a bit of a suspicion where the results this time are concerned, after all, and in one sense he's resigning himself to the proximity of the inevitable. But since Blade is the one with his back against the door, and free hands nearest the handle--] Any change this time?
[......Hmm. Not a normal thing, is it? That red gaze. There is a weight, there, even benevolent as it might currently be; it's not something Luocha flinches under, but it's certainly reminiscent of a covered window opening just a bit, for just a moment, letting seep a surprisingly bright light from the other side.
It might be brief, but in a way it tells almost as much as his words do.
Words that are acknowledged, after a moment, with a slight and further bow of Luocha's head.]
...If it is well, then. Thank you, sir.
[Perhaps he will pray, then. A small thing. Soundless, the only indication being the pause that settles and his own eyes falling closed just a moment, as the gold charm about his wrist is slipped to clasp lightly between his palms. The subject of this brief appeal will go unsaid--if it is even an appeal at all, and not perhaps something rather different...but either way, he'd be loath to tell, even if Hatsutori did ask. It's appreciated, that the latter does not.
And then the pause passes, and then Luocha rises slowly to his feet.]
When you're ready as well, I would be happy to follow you there. ...This is quite a beautiful sanctuary, I must say. [Regardless of his own feelings or alignments, it must be noted; after all, that's just an objective fact. Luocha peers thoughtfully at the cross on the altar, thoughts turning over the shape of Hatsutori's earlier words. Not hard to extrapolate, then...] Was this a place constructed in your name, or that which you now inherit? ...Or perhaps, it is both those things at once?
It might be brief, but in a way it tells almost as much as his words do.
Words that are acknowledged, after a moment, with a slight and further bow of Luocha's head.]
...If it is well, then. Thank you, sir.
[Perhaps he will pray, then. A small thing. Soundless, the only indication being the pause that settles and his own eyes falling closed just a moment, as the gold charm about his wrist is slipped to clasp lightly between his palms. The subject of this brief appeal will go unsaid--if it is even an appeal at all, and not perhaps something rather different...but either way, he'd be loath to tell, even if Hatsutori did ask. It's appreciated, that the latter does not.
And then the pause passes, and then Luocha rises slowly to his feet.]
When you're ready as well, I would be happy to follow you there. ...This is quite a beautiful sanctuary, I must say. [Regardless of his own feelings or alignments, it must be noted; after all, that's just an objective fact. Luocha peers thoughtfully at the cross on the altar, thoughts turning over the shape of Hatsutori's earlier words. Not hard to extrapolate, then...] Was this a place constructed in your name, or that which you now inherit? ...Or perhaps, it is both those things at once?
Constructed in my name.
[ he's honest when he speaks, it was given to so that he could feel closer to those that comes to and from this place. due to how weak he is, those that know him well find that allowing him to frequent a place where he can feel closer to god will help him some, but he is no different from a caged rat.
he knows every location, he can find every dead end and wonder if it'd ever change— it doesn't, but he doesn't dare complain about that either. this was made for him out of love and good will, that's what he's told all the time, a star should remain in space. this place is his space. ]
......Those that visit may let me listen to their worries, or I can offer them words to revitalize their spirits. There are other things, like what you've brought with you. Sometimes I must get rid of things so individuals are not plagued in the future.
[ he believes that luocha will be fine from how hatsutori perceives him, but it's better safe than sorry. slowly hatsutori pushes himself up off the pew, and with his arms behind his back, he begins to lead the other out through the exit of where he arrived so they can walk around the building towards the back.
as they come upon the garden, they'll have to walk underneath an arch covered in vines upon a rocky path. the leaves within the arch's tunnel allows the sunlight to filter in, the shadow and sunrays dancing along their person and the ground until they come out on the other side to a location filled with flora: trees, shrubs, flower buds of all kinds have made their home in this rather large area. there's no ceiling covering the top of the garden, but around the parameter are bushes in the form of walls to keep in the flowers, and out the trespassers.
in the center of everything is both a small bench for then to sit if interested, and a well in the center to pull water from.
it's when hatsutori takes a step off the gravel onto the grass that the area springs to life, the flower buds curling open, the limb of trees expanding, and their leaves growing. the hedges offer them something too, white roses peeking out from the inside to welcome them both. ]
You may sit if you wish, and I'll take the gloves afterwards.
[ he's honest when he speaks, it was given to so that he could feel closer to those that comes to and from this place. due to how weak he is, those that know him well find that allowing him to frequent a place where he can feel closer to god will help him some, but he is no different from a caged rat.
he knows every location, he can find every dead end and wonder if it'd ever change— it doesn't, but he doesn't dare complain about that either. this was made for him out of love and good will, that's what he's told all the time, a star should remain in space. this place is his space. ]
......Those that visit may let me listen to their worries, or I can offer them words to revitalize their spirits. There are other things, like what you've brought with you. Sometimes I must get rid of things so individuals are not plagued in the future.
[ he believes that luocha will be fine from how hatsutori perceives him, but it's better safe than sorry. slowly hatsutori pushes himself up off the pew, and with his arms behind his back, he begins to lead the other out through the exit of where he arrived so they can walk around the building towards the back.
as they come upon the garden, they'll have to walk underneath an arch covered in vines upon a rocky path. the leaves within the arch's tunnel allows the sunlight to filter in, the shadow and sunrays dancing along their person and the ground until they come out on the other side to a location filled with flora: trees, shrubs, flower buds of all kinds have made their home in this rather large area. there's no ceiling covering the top of the garden, but around the parameter are bushes in the form of walls to keep in the flowers, and out the trespassers.
in the center of everything is both a small bench for then to sit if interested, and a well in the center to pull water from.
it's when hatsutori takes a step off the gravel onto the grass that the area springs to life, the flower buds curling open, the limb of trees expanding, and their leaves growing. the hedges offer them something too, white roses peeking out from the inside to welcome them both. ]
You may sit if you wish, and I'll take the gloves afterwards.
[ The moment they shared in the icy outskirts of Belebog is different. At least, that's how Blade sees it. That was something they needed to do for survival, and if he found comfort after sharing warmth with someone else just so he could make it through the night, then he didn't think it counted for anything. Or so he likes to tell himself.
What they're trying to do right now is much more difficult to compartmentalize. A kiss is much more intimate than simply sharing your body warmth with someone else. Sure, they can blame it on the curio later on, but is it really going to be that easy?
He doesn't realize that he'd been holding back his breath until after Luocha presses his lips against his cheek. The spot he kissed is still warm, and the scent of white irises seems more overwhelming now. ]
I'll check.
[ Even trying to make this strictly about getting out of the closet is slowly becoming more difficult. Still, Blade tries the door, and it doesn't budge. ]
... It didn't work, like last time.
[ That only leaves them with one more option. ]
What they're trying to do right now is much more difficult to compartmentalize. A kiss is much more intimate than simply sharing your body warmth with someone else. Sure, they can blame it on the curio later on, but is it really going to be that easy?
He doesn't realize that he'd been holding back his breath until after Luocha presses his lips against his cheek. The spot he kissed is still warm, and the scent of white irises seems more overwhelming now. ]
I'll check.
[ Even trying to make this strictly about getting out of the closet is slowly becoming more difficult. Still, Blade tries the door, and it doesn't budge. ]
... It didn't work, like last time.
[ That only leaves them with one more option. ]
Mm.
[...Seems there's only the one option left indeed. Quite unfortunate. Objectively, sensibly, unfortunate--that they must be forced to push beyond professional boundaries in this way--that they would find themselves at the whim of such an utterly contrived artifact as the one entrapping them currently. It should probably be a rather unpleasant thing to face down, at the least, something to grin and bear with great reluctance. It would be ideal, of course, to fulfill the evident requirement at hand with haste and put this whole debacle behind them as swiftly as possible.
Yet there's nothing particularly swift about it at all, admittedly. The pause Luocha takes to fold in Blade's assessment. Then, the way the thumb at Blade's wrist presses in just a moment, taking in the flutter of that pulse there, before releasing it at last. ...If only so that Luocha can reach up to settle this hand behind Blade's head, the weight of his palm light but firm just over the back of his neck, hold him steady alongside the hand already on his shoulder.
Which means, of course, that he's effectively caging the man against the closet door, and leaning nearly fully into him. In the gloom it's hard to say how close their faces are now...but Luocha tilts his own head slightly, and when he speaks his voice is nearer to Blade's ear than not. As something in his tone, drops, just a bit. As it does sometimes in battle, or when he calls upon the Abyss in his healing; instructing. Directing.]
Tell me, [he murmurs,] is it more agreeable as a surprise, or with a warning?
[You know. Now that both options have been tried. It's a very practical question!
And not at all about seeking to draw out Blade's reaction to the proximity, at this point--!]
[...Seems there's only the one option left indeed. Quite unfortunate. Objectively, sensibly, unfortunate--that they must be forced to push beyond professional boundaries in this way--that they would find themselves at the whim of such an utterly contrived artifact as the one entrapping them currently. It should probably be a rather unpleasant thing to face down, at the least, something to grin and bear with great reluctance. It would be ideal, of course, to fulfill the evident requirement at hand with haste and put this whole debacle behind them as swiftly as possible.
Yet there's nothing particularly swift about it at all, admittedly. The pause Luocha takes to fold in Blade's assessment. Then, the way the thumb at Blade's wrist presses in just a moment, taking in the flutter of that pulse there, before releasing it at last. ...If only so that Luocha can reach up to settle this hand behind Blade's head, the weight of his palm light but firm just over the back of his neck, hold him steady alongside the hand already on his shoulder.
Which means, of course, that he's effectively caging the man against the closet door, and leaning nearly fully into him. In the gloom it's hard to say how close their faces are now...but Luocha tilts his own head slightly, and when he speaks his voice is nearer to Blade's ear than not. As something in his tone, drops, just a bit. As it does sometimes in battle, or when he calls upon the Abyss in his healing; instructing. Directing.]
Tell me, [he murmurs,] is it more agreeable as a surprise, or with a warning?
[You know. Now that both options have been tried. It's a very practical question!
And not at all about seeking to draw out Blade's reaction to the proximity, at this point--!]
I understand, then. Your consideration is quite appreciated, sir...it will be an honor, too, to observe the work of a divine one within his domain.
[Well, for at least one definition of domain, hm? Recalling Hatsutori's admission that he isn't often allowed to move freely, back during the course of their first conversation, Luocha indeed wonders now if this is where the man is normally relegated. ...There are worse cages, to be sure--but elegant guilding doesn't change the term for the container.
Either way. Aloud, Luocha's words are thoughtfully neutral, quiet in prudence to the remaining people praying among the pews, as he follows Hatsutori back out the front doors. Around the building, and to the enclosed space of...ah, a garden indeed, isn't this?
Flowers and leaves spring open the moment Hatsutori steps upon the grass. Objecticely, a lovely and wondrous sight....and it's also one, that--prompts the slightest pause, in Luocha's own steps. A reaction both to the power evidently exerted here once again--and how very familiar this particular instance happens to be, manifesting like this. Blooms abundant....
Merely a moment's lapse, of course. With a breath taken, slightly tensed nerves settle, and he follows Hatsutori the rest of the way to the bench.]
...Thank you. I think I will sit, yes. Here... [Settling onto the bench, Luocha places the bag into Hatsutori's hands when the latter seems ready to receive it. Then, his glance settles upon his face, studying Hatsutori's features with a fairly open curiosity.]
Will this process result in the gloves being destroyed, I wonder? Rest assured, if so, I would not mind it.
[Well, for at least one definition of domain, hm? Recalling Hatsutori's admission that he isn't often allowed to move freely, back during the course of their first conversation, Luocha indeed wonders now if this is where the man is normally relegated. ...There are worse cages, to be sure--but elegant guilding doesn't change the term for the container.
Either way. Aloud, Luocha's words are thoughtfully neutral, quiet in prudence to the remaining people praying among the pews, as he follows Hatsutori back out the front doors. Around the building, and to the enclosed space of...ah, a garden indeed, isn't this?
Flowers and leaves spring open the moment Hatsutori steps upon the grass. Objecticely, a lovely and wondrous sight....and it's also one, that--prompts the slightest pause, in Luocha's own steps. A reaction both to the power evidently exerted here once again--and how very familiar this particular instance happens to be, manifesting like this. Blooms abundant....
Merely a moment's lapse, of course. With a breath taken, slightly tensed nerves settle, and he follows Hatsutori the rest of the way to the bench.]
...Thank you. I think I will sit, yes. Here... [Settling onto the bench, Luocha places the bag into Hatsutori's hands when the latter seems ready to receive it. Then, his glance settles upon his face, studying Hatsutori's features with a fairly open curiosity.]
Will this process result in the gloves being destroyed, I wonder? Rest assured, if so, I would not mind it.
[ from where luocha sits, he can see how far the limbs of the trees outstretch here, how apples hang in various colors waiting to be picked, and the sunlight that filters between the leaves to cast patterns along the grass. there's a short breeze that passes through, various scents of flowers merge together to tickle under their noses, just a little sweet, and some of the flora sways left to right in the wind. ]
You are right, I'll be destroying them.
[ the other is smart and aware, but it's not like hatsutori never said he wasn't going to get rid of them. besides, his request for him to bring what his gloves are made out of is to weave a new pair, and that's only doable if he has a starting point. god used his surroundings to make men and women, of course, as his son, hatsutori would be able to do the same thing. ]
......If I was not as clumsy, it could have been avoided.
[ upon his face, luocha can see the area has already cleared up where hatsutori bumped his head just like in the image. there's also a warm smile on his face as he seems a bit sheepish that he managed to even cause this to happen in the first place. he squats down, slowly opening the bag to check on the material that's inside, and what he searches for first is where the gloves are. they're a bit weighty from being soaked, but that's fine, hatsutori holds the bag up in front of him to "look" at the design despite his eyes still closed. ]
But with you here, it does allow me to act with your discretion. Is there a flower that you prefer?
[ their trip to the garden did have meaning then, a purpose, as he turns his head towards the other to await his answer. ]
Here, I have tended to different kinds... it'll be useful in making your new set.
You are right, I'll be destroying them.
[ the other is smart and aware, but it's not like hatsutori never said he wasn't going to get rid of them. besides, his request for him to bring what his gloves are made out of is to weave a new pair, and that's only doable if he has a starting point. god used his surroundings to make men and women, of course, as his son, hatsutori would be able to do the same thing. ]
......If I was not as clumsy, it could have been avoided.
[ upon his face, luocha can see the area has already cleared up where hatsutori bumped his head just like in the image. there's also a warm smile on his face as he seems a bit sheepish that he managed to even cause this to happen in the first place. he squats down, slowly opening the bag to check on the material that's inside, and what he searches for first is where the gloves are. they're a bit weighty from being soaked, but that's fine, hatsutori holds the bag up in front of him to "look" at the design despite his eyes still closed. ]
But with you here, it does allow me to act with your discretion. Is there a flower that you prefer?
[ their trip to the garden did have meaning then, a purpose, as he turns his head towards the other to await his answer. ]
Here, I have tended to different kinds... it'll be useful in making your new set.
Hmm, and perhaps it also could have been avoided if we hadn't gone on that outing in the first place...or if we'd never met at all, for that matter. But such hypotheticals remain behind us--and, besides, a pair of gloves is a small price paid for the experience. I truly do not mind this.
[The warm and sheepish smile is returned with a mild one of Luocha's own; this, at least, is a genuine sort of sentiment. ...Otherwise, Hatsutori really doesn't seem any worse for wear in the least after the previous night's mild injury--as if none of that had ever transpired at all anyhow. Just as it'd seemed in the picture. He watches attentively as the gloves are examined, but the question earns a faintly startled sort of blink. Of all the things he'd been expecting, it hadn't been quite this, all told...]
Making a new set? I had been prepared to simply purchase another pair at a later date, of course...but, that would be especially generous of you. That is...also rather interesting, I will admit. I have never heard of flowers being involved in the tailoring of gloves as a general rule, but... [Well, he does rather suspect that Hatsutori is about to pull a feat rather beyond the bounds of standard tailoring here. Trailing off with some thought, Luocha casts his glance all about the lovely gleaming of the garden about them--as immaculate a place as something out of a picture book. The fruit upon the tree, the colors in the flowerbeds. ...At any rate. To the actual question at hand, there's only one answer he could give anyhow:] Are white irises included, among the flowers you've grown?
[The warm and sheepish smile is returned with a mild one of Luocha's own; this, at least, is a genuine sort of sentiment. ...Otherwise, Hatsutori really doesn't seem any worse for wear in the least after the previous night's mild injury--as if none of that had ever transpired at all anyhow. Just as it'd seemed in the picture. He watches attentively as the gloves are examined, but the question earns a faintly startled sort of blink. Of all the things he'd been expecting, it hadn't been quite this, all told...]
Making a new set? I had been prepared to simply purchase another pair at a later date, of course...but, that would be especially generous of you. That is...also rather interesting, I will admit. I have never heard of flowers being involved in the tailoring of gloves as a general rule, but... [Well, he does rather suspect that Hatsutori is about to pull a feat rather beyond the bounds of standard tailoring here. Trailing off with some thought, Luocha casts his glance all about the lovely gleaming of the garden about them--as immaculate a place as something out of a picture book. The fruit upon the tree, the colors in the flowerbeds. ...At any rate. To the actual question at hand, there's only one answer he could give anyhow:] Are white irises included, among the flowers you've grown?
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