A tale of wild magic and tested faith in a small town "plagued" by a dragon. ### CAST Delton, an Ilmateri cleric ( @Bee (Tav: Delton) ) Mathias, a local librarian and wizard ( @Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias) )

3

Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)

toffeenuttardis

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Delton watches the countryside pass by from the window of his carriage, contemplating his next moves. He's heading out under false pretenses after all. The Triadian Churches were up in arms about a dragon, supposedly a danger to the public. Why was the creature a danger to the public? Had it attacked houses or taken livestock or threatened people in any way? No. It was pure fear and, unfortunately, money and politics. The local nobles, who always seem to have gold in their pockets and enough wealth to buy a small city-state - despite the vast majority of the population's impoverished state - wanted the dragon gone. Delton supposes it's hard to exploit the peasantry when a dragon might claim them as part of their hoard. He hates politics. And he hates the fact that those who supposedly follow the Suffering One and his breathern would even consider taking this job. He doubts the Crying God would approve of killing a creature for no reason other than fear. But, he's not the person who makes those decisions. The combined forces of the Balduran, Neverwinterian, and Waterdhavian Churches want the dragon gone. So, the combined forces of the Triadian Churches had put the job into Delton’s hands. Collect intel so that a group of paladins can come in and slay the dragon. Bring peace to the area. It's a nonsensical excuse. One meant to cover up the Churches' desire for money. Well, that's what Delton assumes anyway. So, he's heading to a small village in the middle of Faerün to tell a dragon that the forces of some of the biggest churches on the continent are after them. And that he wants to help. Killing something for existing alleviates no suffering. It just creates it. Here's to hoping he doesn't get killed for his efforts.

The carriage starts slowing down as he gets closer and closer to the village. It starts off as plots of farmland, going as far as the village itself. Then, the woods start to encircle the village, trees as far as the eye can see. Tree-covered mountains loom, casting a shadow on the land. Something, somehow, feels off about this place.

Delton gets off the carriage, thanking the driver and the porter. He was staying at a local convent's guest house and feels fortunate for being able to get his own room. It makes his plans much easier. His official cover story is that he's here to teach the local clerics more healing - which he will do of course, because that's his job - but what he's really interested in is the town's library and archives. It will give him a place to start. Plus, he might be able to get some of the locals' insight on why the nobles are up in arms now of all times.

It's another day at the sleep little village on the outskirts of both Neverwinter and Waterdeep as he makes his way down the cobblestone street, nose in yet another book. He's able to sense the comings and goings of the townfolk because they have patterns, habits, daily treks. Newcomers are so rare that when it happens, he knows he's gotten far to soft and become far too foolish. A child darts out in his path, a black paper dragon in their hand and he easily sidesteps them with a sigh, but stumbles into a person that is not usually in front of the convent, not too far from the library where he works.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Mathias keeps them both upright but ends up with a gloved hand around each one of the redhaired elf's biceps. "Oh, my apologi... Delton is a little startled by being run into but, honestly, he should have expected it, standing in the middle of the street like a common tourist. "Oh, no problem at all saer. I'm the one taking up the walkway by just standing here. Thank you for not letting me fall onto the street and hit by a couch or something. Would be quite an awful way to start my stay here. " He hitches up his bag of essentials higher onto his shoulder. His other bags were delivered ahead of time, fortunately, so he's not lugging around massive amounts of potion ingredients. Smiling at the other man, he spots the book immediately. "Where are my manners? Delton Naïlo." Normally, he'd hold his hand out for a shake but the other man seemed to want to keep contact as minimal as possible. Instead, he puts his hand over his heart and bows his head, a more formal religious greeting. "I'm here for the foreseeable future for research and to train local healers. Would you happen to know anything about the local library or librarians saer?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton is a little startled by being run into but, honestly, he should have expected it, standing in the middle of the street l... He's able to drop his mask a little bit and gives a genuine softer, albeit small, smile. He nods all the same, one hand clutching his book and the other behind his back. A cleric from the church. Wonderful. Well, they did need more healers in town with the plague spreading...he would have to endure the closer watching eye of the church. "Ah, welcome to town, Mr. Naïlo. I'm Mathias Elemmírë and actually, I am the local librarian. It looks like you might be carrying quite a bit there still, so if you would like to deposit your bag, our library is right over there." He points to the somewhat detailed looking, architecturally at least, building.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He's able to drop his mask a little bit and gives a genuine softer, albeit small, smile. He nods all the same, one hand clutchi... Delton blinks, a little startled at his luck. Maybe he should be less so, considering the size of the town compared to Waterdeep, but it's delightful all the same. "A please to meet you, Mr. Elemmírë. Just Delton is fine." He hefts his bag up on his shoulder. He supposes he doesn't need all this - he should probably drop the less controversial things in his room. "I'd love to see your facilities. I'm doing some research, myself. Mostly personal," because the most popular opinion of his superiors is to destroy things, "I'll head over as soon as I drop some of this off." His smile is bright, even if his eyes are tired. He heads up the convent stairs to do just that.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton blinks, a little startled at his luck. Maybe he should be less so, considering the size of the town compared to Waterdeep... His fiery red hair is a nice blaze of color in this sleepy little town of humans and half-elves. He watches it retreat up the stairs and shakes his head to clear the fog. The Church had sent a cleric. A new one. Supposedly just to train the healers in town and probably midwives, too, yet...he could not help but feel a sense of foreboding. He unlocked the front door of the library and slipped inside, hanging his cloak on the mudroom entrance hook and toeing off his walking boots. He shrugged on a pair of loafers and took out an extra pair of slippers for the apparent newcomer in town. Most of the townsfolk knew Mathias as the quiet, peculiar librarian who did not tolerate mud or dirt in his library. Younger children thought him delightful but older children found him terrifying as their attempts to loot or break into the library were always met with him looming over their shoulders to tell them they were using the lockpick set wrong. He strides over to the front desk and snaps his fingers. All of the lights flicker to life, spilling warmly over the tables and shelves. He opens the wooden music box he keeps under the desk and the Lliiran Suites fill the space gently, providing background sound to study or in his case, get to work on his newest translation he was scribing for the town.

The room that will be his home for the foreseeable future is roomier than he expected and has its own private bathroom. When he glances down the hallway, he realizes he's been put in a wing for 'honored guests.' He rolls his eyes at that - no need to hide it when no one is there to see it. He'd rather be just another Ilmateri, but, instead, he's put on a pedestal everywhere he goes. It's exhausting. And lonely. He cleans out his bag of his toiletries and the sets of clothes he always is sure to take during travel. He keeps his books on him, however. It would be very counterproductive to his subterfuge if someone discovered his books in Draconic and on the history of dragon communication with humanoid peoples. He heads back down to the library, smiling and nodding at people he passes. It wouldn't do to be seen as some loner - it would make him stand out more. Trying the handle, he finds the library unlocked. Beautiful music plays and more a moment he just stops and listens. He already misses home and the music of the church. But he shrugs off his thick cloak and hangs it up, toeing off his shoes to put on the slippers laid out. He silently walks up to where Mathais is sitting and asks, voice very quiet to respect the peace of the situation, "Mr. Elemmíre, would you mind pointing me in the direction of books on the region's history. No need to get up," he tries to assure the other man. He doesn't want to disrupt him too much, after all, "just a general direction works." He gives a small smile, taking in the library at the same time.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The room that will be his home for the foreseeable future is roomier than he expected and has its own private bathroom. When he ... He watches the elf from the moment the door swings open. He looks like he belongs under the warm lights of a library, for some reason. "Yes, Aisle 5, three rows down." He points over Delton's left shoulder. "Should have a good amount of them since they were preserved well."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He watches the elf from the moment the door swings open. He looks like he belongs under the warm lights of a library, for some ... Delton’s smile grows bright, "Thank you, sir." He heads over in that direction pointed out to him and feels immediately in his element. He's been doing research for years, this is just another project. Just one that could get him in a lot of trouble. But, his loyalty is to Ilmater, not the Church - to alleviate suffering, not cause it. Thus, he feels like he's on the right path. For a brief moment, he feels something like a warm hug, but it disappears almost as soon as it came. He'd take that as sign enough. Scanning the shelves, he takes anything that seems super relevant to his topic. Less obviously relevant texts will be referenced later, but, for now, he needs a stopping point. He lugs his haul over to a nearby table and gets to work. Focusing first on the town's history with other groups. The big cities, noble families, any potential feuds. He's really scouring for any mention of dragons, though he notes the noble families that he knows have survived to today - and have substantial power. He'll be at this for days, probably.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton’s smile grows bright, "Thank you, sir." He heads over in that direction pointed out to him and feels immediately in his... He watches the cleric walk away and as he passed through the early morning sunlight, the air shifts around Delton. The cleric gives no pause and continues walking, but Mathias squints in assessment. He tries to summon his draconic eyesight but the first few attempts fail him, leaving him cursing and pinching the bridge of his nose. He takes a deep breath and tries one final time — and voila! As Delton emerges from the stacks with a large armful of books, he sees the distinct divine magic of a God's blessing. His heart sinks a little further. A Chosen. Fuck. Mathias really didn't want to leave and run again. And even if he did, right now at this moment, it would cause suspicion and likely make it even more obvious that he was a dragon. He knew the local nobles didn't like dragons. They shouted as much at the town council meetings and the villagers talked in hushed tones about rumors and fables. None of them knew it was Mathias they spoke of. He sighed and shook his head, trying to shake the eyesight away. Except it didn't budge. "Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no" was a sudden mantra in his head as he swung around and looked for an out until his ridiculous magic decided to cooperate once more. What to wear?! How to disguise?! His eyes landed on a recent pair of goggles he had found in the stacks with tinted lenses meant for reading a few encrypted languages. He shoved them onto his face quickly and breathed a sigh of relief. He'd already seen how they block the wearer's eyes from sight very well.

1

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

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> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He watches the cleric walk away and as he passed through the early morning sunlight, the air shifts around Delton. The cleric g... For a moment, he feels like something is...off. Like he's being perceived in a way that goes beyond someone seeing him. It makes his skin crawl, this feeling of being watched but he tries to shrug it off. But, after a few moments of that not working, he starts to scan the room, eyes flicking back and forth. It isn't demonic or fiend-like. Just very very odd. But he can't see or sense anything. The only new addition to the room is Mathais wearing a pair of goggles - one's that he's seen archivists use when dealing with Tir'su. It's a little...odd that this sleepy little town would have such texts, but he's not going to question it. Sometimes texts belong in certain people's hands and maybe Mathais is the most qualified for those translations. He shrugs, going back to his reading despite his hair standing on end. He had found a text on local blood feuds - maybe that would shed some light on things. He takes out a journal and starts jotting down notes.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > For a moment, he feels like something is...off. Like he's being perceived in a way that goes beyond someone seeing him. It ma... He does his best to not pay attention to Delton and goes back to his own translation and focuses on not letting his eyes cross in the goggles which unfortunately mess with his vision a enough to give him a headache. And that headache is enough to make his eyesight return to normal. He sighs and takes the googles off, rubbing the bridge of his nose. Standing, he replaces the glasses and quietly pads over to the station at one of the tables where Delton has been for the last hour. "Sir? Would you care for a cup of tea?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He does his best to not pay attention to Delton and goes back to his own translation and focuses on not letting his eyes cross ... Delton is deep into his reading, his hand jotting down notes into his notebook rapidly, barely looking away from the book. His notes are a jumbled mess of Common, Elvish, and Undercommon, likely to be illegible to most readers. He's not found anything of particular use yet, beyond fables and rumors of this region's relationship with dragons but, well, he has time and a lot of other books to pour through. As lost as he was in his research, he didn't notice Mathais' approach and jumps a little. "Oh, sorry, Mr. Elemmírë. I get a little lost in my work sometimes," the other man's words sink in, "Oh, that would be lovely, if it's not too much of a bother. And, just Delton, please."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton is deep into his reading, his hand jotting down notes into his notebook rapidly, barely looking away from the book. His n... He gives Delton a pained smile. He doesn’t try to sneak up on people but it does seem to happen quite often. “Delton, then. And as long as you agree to call me Mathias. Is there a blend you would prefer? I am partial to breakfast or afternoon teas myself.”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He gives Delton a pained smile. He doesn’t try to sneak up on people but it does seem to happen quite often. “Delton, then. A... Delton notices the fact that Mathias' smile looks more like a wince immediately and feels a little bad for it. "Don't worry about startling me-" he quickly tries to assuage, before finishing a little lamely and knkwing his cheeks are a little pink from embarrassment, "I'm just...jumpy." "And Mathias it is then. I'm fine with whatever you're having - don't need to go out of your way for me." He smiles brightly, trying to will the heat away from his face.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton notices the fact that Mathias' smile looks more like a wince immediately and feels a little bad for it. "Don't worry ab... “It is not trouble at all, Delton. I shall be right back.” He strides back to his desk into the back office where he keeps his small kitchen. He tries to light the fire with a simple cantrip which…of course does not work. He rolls his eyes petulantly. “Of fucking course,” he mutters to himself, taking out a pack of matches from the cupboard. He starts the fire and works on getting the kettle boiling, hoping today’s wild surge doesn’t cause too much mayhem.

@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias) :game_die: Result: 1d100 (7) Total: 7

The once sunny day becomes a blustery overcast sky. Lightning streaks across the sky and thunder ricochets off the mountains. Rain begins to pour in buckets and people shriek, running inside.

He pauses, hearing the thunder, and then facepalms. Godsdamn it.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He pauses, hearing the thunder, and then facepalms. Godsdamn it. Delton is a little surprised at how the once beautiful day quickly changes to an aggressive thunderstorm, the thunder seeming to echo off the mountains. He goes to the door to check that no one is caught in the storm - it wouldn't do for anyone to get hurt or caught in a flood, but most people have seemed to make it out of the torrential downpour. Securing the door so as to keep the storm outside, he glances around the library. It seems...fairly empty. He supposes that isn't too unusual, considering the time, but it's something to note regardless. Deciding to try and be helpful, he goes to check the windows are closed. It was such a nice day before and there was a little breeze.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton is a little surprised at how the once beautiful day quickly changes to an aggressive thunderstorm, the thunder seeming to... After the kettle whistles, he emerges with a teapot and two tea cups, a bowl of sugar, and a bowl of cream on a tray. "Oh! Thank you, Delton. I was not aware a storm would be blowing in today..." he says while putting the tray down on the table at the end of where Delton's research sits.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > After the kettle whistles, he emerges with a teapot and two tea cups, a bowl of sugar, and a bowl of cream on a tray. "Oh! Th... He's on his toes to reach the last window and secure it, but Delton manages. "I figured you didn't - from the sounds outside, I don't think anyone did," he shrugs, "It wouldn't do for your fine library to be covered in water. Though I do hope no one gets hurt out in the fields because of the unexpected storm..." Rubbing his pendant, he sends a little prayer out into the universe that is hope comes true. He's not going to call on his God for such a small thing - especially considering he may have to call upon Ilmater in a much more extreme manner soon, if he has a good read on these nobles - but his healer's heart clenches at the idea of someone getting seriously injured in such a storm... The smile on his face is bright when he spots the tea. "Thank you so much Mathias. I do hope I'm not disturbing you too much but...I would like to get to know the people of this town. I will be here for the foreseeable future, after all."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He's on his toes to reach the last window and secure it, but Delton manages. "I figured you didn't - from the sounds outside, ... “Again, you are of no trouble or bother. This is the quiet of opening hours. The children are at school, learning, and some will flood in after taking their lunches. There are also a few budding wizards and druid’s in the village who visit to research.”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Again, you are of no trouble or bother. This is the quiet of opening hours. The children are at school, learning, and some will... Delton shoots Mathias a smile, "Well, I look forward to seeing the kids come in. They always can liven up a place - and provide a nice distraction if I need one." He pours a dash of cream and places two sugars into his cup. Stirring it before taking a sip, he savors the taste. The trip here had been very long after all. "Do you get many encrypted texts to translate here Mathias? I've only ever seen them used to translate Tir'su back in Waterdeep."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton shoots Mathias a smile, "Well, I look forward to seeing the kids come in. They always can liven up a place - and provide ... He pours his own cup after adding 5 sugar cubes himself. "Oh the children are...lively. Most of them I am quite fond of. The older, bored young adults...I wish I could say I was fond of them. There is one though. A young girl, quiet and keeps to herself around the other ones, but when she is here in the library, she comes to life. Sometimes she sits and reads to the littler children or helps them with their studies. I'm afraid that today may be such a day since they won't be able to play outside." When Delton asks him about the encrypted texts he definitely was not studying like he had pretended to, he chokes on his tea. "Mmm, excuse me," he says as he blots at his mouth with a napkin. "No, we do not. I was examining them for maintenance purposes. I had only recently found them here and wanted to make sure they were not scratched or in need of repair." There. Only a half-truth.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He pours his own cup after adding 5 sugar cubes himself. "Oh the children are...lively. Most of them I am quite fond of. The ... Delton smiles at the amount of sugar Mathias puts into his teacup, hiding his face behind his own tea so as to not reveal it to the other man. Someone's got a sweet tooth. It's endearing, really. And good to know if he ever feels the need to stress bake, someone will eat them. "Children should be lively, in my opinion. Let the adults be boring," he laughs, then sobers a little, "When I first got to the convent, most of the novices were just like that. Bored young adults. Caused mayhem before they settled down - gave the head priestess some gray hairs, I believe." His smile softens, "She sounds like a sweet girl. Maybe she'll be a teacher one day - or a librarian, like you. I'm glad you gave her a space to be herself." When Mathias chokes on his tea, Delton immediately starts to stand to help, but the other man gets a hold of himself before intervention is necessary. "Oh, well, I hope you can get good use out of them," he tilts his head to the side, "But you do translations, do you not? It seemed to be what you were doing when I first walked in..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton smiles at the amount of sugar Mathias puts into his teacup, hiding his face behind his own tea so as to not reveal it t... He recovers fully after that. Delton is quite observant... "I do, and yes, I was. I took a break from it to tend to the glasses so my eyes might rest." He sips his tea and examines the redhead from behind his teacup.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He recovers fully after that. Delton is quite observant... "I do, and yes, I was. I took a break from it to tend to the glass... Delton smiles at that, "I'm glad you are making things readable for the town and world at large. I've been begging the Society of Brilliance to release more of their papers in Common, because I think that would help foster exchange." He hums a little, "I'm no academic, but I've helped a few of my friends translate their papers into Undercommon to do the same. The Underdark is full of potential for all people to benefit from and, while it is still a place steeped in violence, I think maybe we can learn from each other." "Are you originally from here, Mathais?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton smiles at that, "I'm glad you are making things readable for the town and world at large. I've been begging the Society o... He sneers and then clears his throat. "Ah, apologies. That was unkind. I do not have...fond feelings for many of their flock. I'm sure the whole organization cannot be written off so hastily." "I am not from here, no. I have traveled pretty far from home. It is...complicated. But this is my home now."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He sneers and then clears his throat. "Ah, apologies. That was unkind. I do not have...fond feelings for many of their flock.... Delton blinks a little at the response, but it's not the most surprising. "I can't say they're all doing good - nor can I say that all of them are even good-intentioned. Some of them have no concept of ethics at all - and when I heard of some of the experiments they were trying to do, I threw the book at those scholars. Don't take me as some foolish pragmatist who thinks the ends always justify the means." He gives a smile. Being an Ilmateri - especially a high-ranking one - brought some influence with law enforcement. The Triadian Churches are really starting to influence the Watch in Waterdeep and the Fists in the Gate to care about all people equally. It's slow-going, but it's happening. Things like that almost made the politicking worth it. Almost. "But there's a few that I work with. Mostly herbalists and medics - people who study the flora and fauna of the Underdark in hopes of finding the ways they can help people everywhere. Noblestalk, for example, isn't the only good plant in the Underdark." He shrugs a little, "I think you can make a home wherever you go. I'm originally from Neverwinter but...have no intentions of going back to my birthplace. I was sent to Waterdeep a few years after being...taken in by the convent." "My husband's from there and his entire family is too. After he passed, I stayed because that's home now. It's different without him, but it's still home," he looks a little wistful at that, but not too devastated fortunately.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton blinks a little at the response, but it's not the most surprising. "I can't say they're all doing good - nor can I say ... "Oh, you must miss home then. Will your husband be joining you here in the village?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh, you must miss home then. Will your husband be joining you here in the village?" Delton assumes his euphemism didn't translate well. His Common could be a little, odd, sometimes considering it's really his third language. "He died about eleven years ago." Trying to fill the awkward silence before it even starts, "I remain close to his family. They're lovely people and treat me as their own - which is especially nice because I don't have any other family." "But, yes, I imagine I'm going to miss home. But I don't want to dwell on that, especially since everyone has been so welcoming here." He shoots the other man a bright smile.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton assumes his euphemism didn't translate well. His Common could be a little, odd, sometimes considering it's really his thi... He flushes a little. "Oh, Gods, I'm-I am so sorry. My condolences, Delton." *He looks down at his tea at a loss for words. He has no idea what losing a mate–not the right word– a partner would feel like.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He flushes a little. "Oh, Gods, I'm-I am so sorry. My condolences, Delton." *He looks down at his tea at a loss for words. ... Delton reaches over and pats his hand, "It's really alright. Well, alright is not quite the right word but you don't need to worry. I'll always miss him, but time does heal wounds." He tries to find something, anything to talk about that isn't him being a widower. It's just so hard, having to tiptoe around Theo. "So, what's your research specialty, Mathias?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton reaches over and pats his hand, "It's really alright. Well, alright is not quite the right word but you don't need to wor... He does his absolute damndest not to flinch when Delton pats his gloved hand. But he perks up with Delton asks about his research specialty. "Ah! Something most do not like to talk about, honestly. I do love the library but my true passion lies in theoretical mathematics. The underlying formula of the realmspace!"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He does his absolute damndest not to flinch when Delton pats his gloved hand. But he perks up with Delton asks about his resear... The flinch, to him, is almost as obvious as if the other man got burned. He's trained to see the minscule expressions that show when people or uncomfortable or in pain. He makes a note of it, and immediately decides to not toucb Mathias anymore. And, well, Delton is a healer, not a mathematician. He knows what he needs to do his job and, while he's always had a good head for numbers, theoretical mathematics hasn't come up too much. "Why don't you tell me about it? I can't promise I'll understand everything but I can promise I'll try."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The flinch, to him, is almost as obvious as if the other man got burned. He's trained to see the minscule expressions that show ... "Oh, but Delton we would be here for far too long. You see, my studies are mostly just the musings of a restless mind. Posturings by Wilczek on time-translation symmetry, quantum weirdness, and how the very nerves in your brain generate quantum entanglements. I also help balance the books if you are looking for more practical application."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh, but Delton we would be here for far too long. You see, my studies are mostly just the musings of a restless mind. Posturing... Delton smiles at him, unable to help glancing at his own research for a second, but deciding this would be worth it, "I've got time and a willingness to learn, Mathias. I'd love to hear about it." "Oh, I used to keep the books of a local hospice when I was a novice. I've always had a head for numbers." It's helpful for baking, and potion doses, and alchemy. Numbers are simple. There's always a right answer. A calm in a profession where there's often no right answer.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton smiles at him, unable to help glancing at his own research for a second, but deciding this would be worth it, "I've got t... He laughs, a gentle thing that to the right ears might sound hopeful. "Oh did you? How well did they run their budgets?" he asks sincerely. Probably not the most welcome of topics, reducing patient care to numbers but the state of their budgets and alignment with end of year numbers will say a lot about the place Delton used to work for.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He laughs, a gentle thing that to the right ears might sound hopeful. "Oh did you? How well did they run their budgets?" *he ... Delton really thinks on that. "We did...okay. Ilmateri don't tend to have set payments for treatment. It's very much give what you can, if you can at all." "Fortunately, we were able to get enough donations from the public that we could invest in quality ingredients and comfortable accommodations for the sick - that's part of the reason they had me run the books. I can better see the future than a lot of people with numbers." He shrugs, "We were a small hospital, so we were lucky to not be forced into donations that had strings. We just sought to help people - make them better and give them guidance." Ever since I was Chosen, I feel I'm more politician than priest. I hate it so much. I feel like I'm disappointing my God.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton really thinks on that. "We did...okay. Ilmateri don't tend to have set payments for treatment. It's very much give what y... “Ah, well then it sounds as though your hospital was in good hands all around. Especially with a wise bookkeeper on staff,” he offers with a smile. “So what brings you to this sleepy little town? What are you so eager to find in these ancient records?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Ah, well then it sounds as though your hospital was in good hands all around. Especially with a wise bookkeeper on staff,” *he ... Delton tilts his head, considering. He doesn't know Mathias and his loyalties while it would be lovely to have another researcher, he doesn't want to risk it. "Some...fairly powerful people want to destroy a creature just for existing. Almost like...hunting it for sport?" That's...not quite true but not false either. "I want to find this creature, before anyone else does. To protect it. It's not fair that others seek its destruction just for existing. The closest I have come to accurate reporting sights of this creature is here...so here I am." Intent on doing what I can to reduce suffering. Like Ilmater would want.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton tilts his head, considering. He doesn't know Mathias and his loyalties while it would be lovely to have another researche... He nods, listening. And then almost spits out his tea. *Coughing, he wheezes out,"Wrong pipe," So the nobles have taken note of the plague have they? Took them long enough. It is surprising they did not inquire sooner when the prized bull of the cattlemen had turned up missing.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He nods, listening. And then almost spits out his tea. *Coughing, he wheezes out,"Wrong pipe," *So the nobles have taken not... Delton creases his eyebrows in concern. That's the second time Mathias has choked on his tea. "Are you feeling alright, Mathias? Having trouble swallowing? Maybe you're coming down with something..." He trails off thoughtfully. He stands to go to his pack which of course always has any medical supplies he may need. Magic can't do everything, after all.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton creases his eyebrows in concern. That's the second time Mathias has choked on his tea. "Are you feeling alright, Mathias... Oh. Oh no. Healers always figure something is amiss with him quite quickly. "Ah, no, that will not be necessary, Delton.* He stands quickly and goes to the sink to dump out his tea, rinsing it down the drain. "I think I perhaps swallowed a bit of the dregs by accident. Bad luck is all." He returns with a clean tea cup and pours himself a new cup of tea, slowly this time and over 5 more cubes of sugar.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Oh. Oh no. Healers always figure something is amiss with him quite quickly. "Ah, no, that will not be necessary, Delton.* *H... Delton's eyebrows are still furrowed, but he goes back to his seat and stirs his tea absently. "If you're sure..." He trails off, still watching the other man intently. He tries to brush it off and says, "Thank you for being so kind to me. A lot of people are...rightfully wary when new clerics focused on healing come to town. People can find it akin to bad luck or an omen." He shoots Mathias a bright smile, before glancing around. "I'd love to continue spending time with you, but I really should try to get through some of these records before the kids are out of school. Then, I can do some late lessons for young novices." He sounds apologetic at this, like he's honestly disappointed to cut their conversation short.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton's eyebrows are still furrowed, but he goes back to his seat and stirs his tea absently. "If you're sure..." He trails o... "No, of course! I apologize for the distraction. If you need anything, I am at your disposal as best I can be. And please, feel free to help yourself to my tea." He smiles kindly and takes his tea back to the front desk.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "No, of course! I apologize for the distraction. If you need anything, I am at your disposal as best I can be. And please, feel ... Delton can't help but watch the librarian for a few moments as the other man settles into his desk. He's a tad eccentric but seems like a good man. A good resource too. He turns back to his research.

The next month carries on that way. Delton gets up at an ungodly hour, goes for a run no matter the weather, gets changed, scarfs down something small, and heads to the library. He spends hours in there, only stopping when Mathias gets his afternoon tea which is when Delton decides to take lunch. Often, he will join Mathias for a cup of tea and try to ask him more about the town - to varying degrees of success. Most of his nights are dedicated to teaching the local healers, both clerics and not. With more and more livestock going missing or turning up dead, it's essential for as many people to be prepared as possible. Delton can't put his finger on it, but he has a general feeling of unease. Like something is coming. Ilmater is providing no answers, however. His research produces nothing really substantial. Rumors and more rumors. Local legends. Tales that are probably no more than fables. It's exhausting. But, the nobles are still spreading fear about dragons and he really doesn't want a creature that doesn't seem to be harming anything hurt. The livestock aren't being stolen or mauled - they're just turning up dead. So he continues the search, even when it seems fruitless. When a report that the local nobles want to host an event, it sets his teeth on edge. It seems rather...convenient. But, he has no choice in the matter. One of his direct superiors told him he is required to attend. He's already skirting enough rules.

A Wintershield ball. When the people of the town are terrified and he's no closer to figuring out what is plaguing the water and turning the livestock mad. The nobles already think he is the cause of it. Even Delton is researching it and he is looking in odd spots. Mathias cannot tell him the truth and risk the only potential ally he has in this place. Not when the reason he is here is also because the other clerics are being taken as well. Delton has the power to protect himself, no doubt. But despite that, he's grown rather fond of the elf in the last month and wouldn't want to see him harmed. And then there's the blasted white raven. Delton's familiar. Whenever Delton is at the library or training the other clerics, moments when Mathias knows he is safe, the blasted raven follows him. He has to continue to take new paths and sometimes walk the opposite of where he needs to go in order to lose the raven entirely. Warding the cave in the mountains was particularly exhausting and he had spent the next day apologizing profusely for the library's impromptu closure.

Quothe is not typically suspicious of the average person Delton comes across. His wayward charge is often too trusting, too loyal, but the average person on Faerûn is not out to hurt him. He's wary of the nobles who seem to circle his chick like dogs do a prime cut of meat, but Delton is of a similar mind to him in that. As best he can, his elf avoids them, especially a particularly pale elf who seems far too invested in trying to court an uninterested party. But, he is suspicious of the local librarian. He's an astute hunter in this form and his true one. He rarely has trouble tracking a mouse from a mile high or a normal person from his perches high in the trees or atop rooftops. The librarian, however? Mathias Elemmìrë seems to shrug off his every attempt to watch him, which only makes him more suspicious. What is he hiding? Quothe refuses to mention this to his charge, however. No use to send the boy spiraling over nothing.

Delton finds Quothe's recent behavior odd. He's gone at ofd hours and, when he is here, he's scanning rooms looking for...something. When he's tried to ask, he's been summarily brushed off. But, he has more to worry about. Like this blasted ball. He doesn't want to go. Events like these are loud and overstimulating. They are more about showing off wealth and superiority than anything else. And for some reason, people find it appropriate to get...touchy after a few drinks. Blame their lack of inhibitions on the alcohol. It's infuriating. There's a plague going on, and the nobles couldn't care less. It makes his blood boil. He'd much rather be researching or healing or teaching. But, instead, he will be attending a ball he doesn't want to go to, in clothes he did not pick out for himself, and try to dodge the increasingly overt attempts of the local nobility to court him. The problem with dealing with people who have never been told 'no' in their lives, is that they tend to not take no for an answer. At least Quothe promised to try and eavesdrop on them, see what they were up to. Invisibility is a great spell to have.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton finds Quothe's recent behavior odd. He's gone at ofd hours and, when he is here, he's scanning rooms looking for...someth... He enters the ball as was asked of him by the local nobles, knowing full well that they only want him here as a spectacle. Fodder for the gossip machine. The man who divorced Lady Margaret and ran. Disgraced and foolish for turning down a lordship, they all whisper behind his backs. They're all fools, the lot of them. He bows to the elders and some of the kinder folk of the village, the teachers at the local schoolhouse, kisses the hands of the local brothel matron, and completely ignores the nobles directly affiliated with the church. They sneer and scoff, but it is no matter to him. He takes his flagon of mead and sits out on the balcony.

1

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

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Delton has been in the ball for far longer than we've liked to be. The Mother of the House had demanded they'd show up exactly on time, eliminating any hope of fashionably late. He's already exhausted, the petty squabbles of the nobility tedious. There is a plague going on, and they care more about appearances than that. It's absolutely infuriating. Plus, he eyes how they treat Mathias with absolute disdain, unable to keep the politician face up for that. The librarian was twice the person these sycophants could ever be. At first, he had been able to mingle a little with the locals, discussing their problems and concerns. He had carefully made a list in his head, hoping to see what he could do to help. That was what his job is supposed to be, after all. But, he'd been dragged into the group of nobles and they won't let him go. Now that the drinks are flowing, their carefully cultivated masks are dissolving - the dissolution a performance in itself. None of these people have lost their faculties. No, now they are using it as an excuse to let hands wander. It's making his skin crawl. He knows he's a 'catch' to these people. His connections to the Church make him both a powerful ally and a signal of their righteousness. But even his patience is growing thin when the extraordinarily pale man subtly propositions him once again, his hand on the small of his back. Be polite. Be polite. Don't panic and be polite. "Oh friends, I think I need some air and a moment alone. I'll be right back, I promise." He somehow manages to extract himself from the sharks, knowing he doesn't have too long before they start circling again. He walks out to the balcony and sits on one of the stone benches, almost deflating.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton has been in the ball for far longer than we've liked to be. The Mother of the House had demanded they'd show up exactly o... He smiles and waffles on whether to wait for Delton to turn and notice him or alert him to his presence. He opts for the latter. "Hello, Delton." The two of them had gotten along quite well in the last few months that he could count on the man as a wonderful friend...even if he had to keep part of himself secret from the Chosen of Ilmater.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He smiles and waffles on whether to wait for Delton to turn and notice him or alert him to his presence. He opts for the latter... Delton startles for a moment at the new voice. But, once he registers who it is, he relaxes. Fortunately, he hasn't trapped himself in a vipers nest yet. "Mathias, hello. Wonderful to see you." His smile is a little wan, his social battery drained in a way it hasn't been in a long time. "I envy you. You've got the best spot in the house with a wonderful view of the stars," he glances up at the cloudless night, stars twinkling brightly.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton startles for a moment at the new voice. But, once he registers who it is, he relaxes. Fortunately, he hasn't trapped hi... "Ah! Yes, well...it is a wonderful spot if one prefers to be alone in all things." Oh. Maybe he had drank one too many flagons. But he's not so far gone that he doesn't understand Delton's expression. He's spent enough time with the man now to know when he is quite drained. He can relate. "You look quite tired. You are welcome to simply sit out here with me if you need some fresh air."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Ah! Yes, well...it is a wonderful spot if one prefers to be alone in all things." *Oh. Maybe he had drank one too many flagons... "Oh, with the way you were charming the townswomen, I don't know if you need to worry about being alone forever, darling." His own mask is slipping. He's generally able to summon inhuman levels of patience, but these people really grind his gears. He barks out a laugh over his shoulder, still staring at the stars. "I wouldn't want to lead those vip-excuse me, the crowd of them directly to you, Mathias. That isn't fair - especially when it's me they want." The one benefit of the nobles' undivided attention on him, is they leave Mathias alone. Yes, he's heard every rumor under the sun about the librarian since he came here. Frankly, he doesn't care. He's not one to believe rumors. He'd rather trust his friend to tell him about his past on his own. "I just wish they wouldn't get so...touchy. I know, pot calling the kettle black, as tactile of a person I am. But it's like I can feel their intentions." They're hunters after all. And he's just the prize buck, running for his life.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "Oh, with the way you were charming the townswomen, I don't know if you need to worry about being alone forever, darling." His ... “Ah, the Madame. I am only courteous at best. She and her wards are free to take shelter in the library as one might a church for sanctuary. I also make sure one of your fellow healers gives them regular check ups.” He frowns deeply when Delton mentions their attentions, unwanted advances. Something primal in his dragon rumbles unpleasantly about the situation but he quashes it. He moves to sit up next to Delton, to look at his profile as he stares at the stars above. “You do not have to suffer their attentions, Delton. It is not the same as being affectionate if it is unwanted or promiscuous. You belong only to yourself…no matter what anyone asks of you.”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Ah, the Madame. I am only courteous at best. She and her wards are free to take shelter in the library as one might a church fo... A soft smile spreads across Delton's face, though he doesn't look away from the stars. "Thank you. For looking out for them. Often, people look down and treat them like trash when they're just...people trying their best." He's gotten into it with enough fellow healers over that specific thing. For the fact that treating their clients is no issue but them? A horrific double standard. His smile turns a little bitter, something out of his place on his normally bright face. "I'm a Chosen of Ilmater, Mathias. I fear I haven't belonged to myself in a long time." He's glancing at the door behind them, waiting for when one of the nobles comes out to get him - and Mathias too. He has his bets that it will be that Natan Blackfrond. A real social climber, if Delton has him right.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > A soft smile spreads across Delton's face, though he doesn't look away from the stars. "Thank you. For looking out for them. Oft... "Delton. You've told me of your status. I still hold true—chosen or not, you are your own person unless you decide otherwise. I will fight whomever disagrees. You should be beholden to no one unless you want to be." Is he referencing his own life and marriage? Maybe. Does it hit close to home a little? Definitely. Delton is a sweet person, dangerously unselfish and altogether entirely to altruistic sometimes. But in a world where there is a shortage of such people, he would be cruel to convince him to change. No, a fire like that must be looked after and fed sometimes. He glances back, as well, with a grumpy expression. The insipid braggart Blackfrond is looking around between parties for someone. Delton no doubt "Pay them no mind. You owe them nothing. We will figure out the plague, with or without them." He watches as one group of women giggle and point in the direction of the door where they sit. "My friend, I do believe the idiotic gossip-mongering women of the church have ratted you out. It seems as though Blackfrond is making his way over."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Delton. You've told me of your status. I still hold true—chosen or not, you are your own person unless you decide otherwise. I ... "That's a long list, darling. With a lot of very important people on it. I don't treasure the thought of you going through all that trouble, just for me." But Delton believes that Mathias would. And isn't that something? That Mathias would do something like that. Just for him. A traitorous tiny thought, buried except when he's particularly tired or the light hits Mathias just right or...well, more often than he'd like to think about, honestly, arises. How could I not fall for you? You who sees me, Delton, and doesn't find me wanting. A stray piece of Mathias' hair has fallen out of place and he leans up to tuck the flyaway behind the other man's ear, "If you believe that, I suppose I should as well." His hand lingers for a second too long, as an idea borne of exhaustion and frustration and the fact that the bartender - seeing him fending off unwanted advances all night - was heavy-handed with his pours - forms in his mind. (He won't admit to himself that it's also partly because of how lovely Mathias looks in the moonlight.) "Please don't be mad at me for this." He leans up, cupping Mathias' cheek, and kisses the corner of his mouth.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "That's a long list, darling. With a lot of very important people on it. I don't treasure the thought of you going through all t... He goes extremely still. So so very still. Delton is kissing him. And out of the corner of his eye he sees Blackfrond coming through the door and he looks a bit aggrieved. Mathias has complicated feelings about this entire thing. Delton has been drinking and he is stressed, likely not thinking clearly. This will stain Delton's reputation potentially. ...But on the other hand, this will make Delton tainted and Mathias can keep him for himself, a selfish thought flashes through his mind. Plus, the idea of pissing off that simpering idiot is also the cherry on top. His eyes slip closed and he brings a hand up to Delton's, turning to slot their mouths together more definitively and kissing him back ardently.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He goes extremely still. So so very still. *Delton is kissing him. And out of the corner of his eye he sees Blackfrond coming... When Mathias freezes, Delton almost pulls back, afraid he's just messed up the best thing that's happened to him in a long time. Then, Mathias kisses him back soundly, stealing the breath from his lungs. But, he tastes the mead Mathias has been drinking. And Delton feels awful. He's using his friend for the sake of shrugging off one of his frustrations (and dealing with his own feelings). A friend who's definitely drank too much to be in the right state of mind for this. He pulls back, breathless, and gasps out, "Mathias-I'm so sorry-you've been drinking and I-" he doesn't know how to finish that thought, so his mouth clicks shut.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > When Mathias freezes, Delton almost pulls back, afraid he's just messed up the best thing that's happened to him in a long time.... He clears his throat, schooling his features to keep the incensed look from his face. "Why, Delton? You need not apologize for this pariah making untoward advances upon you. Here I can help~"

> Reply to: @Natan Blackfrond (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He clears his throat, schooling his features to keep the incensed look from his face. "Why, Delton? You need not apologize fo... His eyes flash toward Natan and he frowns, distaste for the pale man clear. "You are mistaken. Mr. Nailo and I are courting." Damn it, Mathias?! That was awfully hasty. He sealed poor Delton's fate to be ridiculed because of him but at least the other nobles might leave him be.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His eyes flash toward Natan and he frowns, distaste for the pale man clear. "You are mistaken. Mr. Nailo and I are courting."... Delton's eyes flick rapidly between the two men and, decision made, he moves closer to Mathias, almost flinching away from Blackfrond. It's always nice to make people believe he's much more harmless than he actually is. "I...I didn't want our first kiss to be tarnished by the alcohol, love..." His wide eyes - another performance in this act - flick back to Blackfrond, "nor did I particularly want an audience." He leans back slightly, sliding his hand down from Mathias' face to his chest. "Mr. Blackfrond, I've been trying to tell you all night that I'm not available." His voice sounds sympathetic, even though he isn't. "I'm sorry you had to find out this way."

For a moment, his face purples with indignation. Then like a bell ringing in his head, he twitches and breathes deeply, schooling his features. "I see," *he says, voice pinched. "And so you have. If you find yourself in need of more...charming company, you know where to find me, Mr. Nailo. As always, I hold out hope of future possibilities." Then he backs away, gives a stiff bow and goes back through the door into the chatter and fray of the ball.

He harumphs at the man's retreating back, squinting in distaste. *Then he turns to Delton, apology already written on his features, "Delton, I'm so sorry, I did not mean to presume, I only wanted to help," he stammers out in a hushed tone.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He harumphs at the man's retreating back, squinting in distaste. *Then he turns to Delton, apology already written on his fea... "Mathias, I kissed you, without so much as a by your leave. And then you had the chivalry to save me from a man keen on having me, regardless of my opinion on the matter." He sighs, running his hand through his hair, "I'm truly sorry, Mathias. For dragging you into my mess and for kissing you when you're unable to consent. And thank you so much for coming to my rescue. I don't know how much more I could've taken before I manufactured an emergency." Blotches of red stain his cheeks and he can't quite look Mathias in the eye. He realizes one of his hands is still on Mathias and he pulls it away as he steps back, not wanting to intrude on the other man's space anymore.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "Mathias, I kissed you, without so much as a by your leave. And then you had the chivalry to save me from a man keen on having... His gloves hand shoots out before he can stop himself and clasps Delton's hand, gently tugging him back and keeping him from leaving. "Delton, you worry too much. I am your friend. I suggested it earnestly. I can consent, though it is laughable that you worry when you clearly have had more to drink than I and my two flagons of mead," he teases lightly with a smile. "If it will help you stay safe and unbothered, you may invoke my name as your...well, whatever, as you see fit. I must warn you though, I'm afraid the townsfolk may pry or even worse, you find your honor and reputation besmirched by my name. What do the authors call it in their silly novels...ah yes, fake dating."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *His gloves hand shoots out before he can stop himself and clasps Delton's hand, gently tugging him back and keeping him from le... He searches the other man's face for any sign of deception or discomfort, eyes flicking down to their now clasped hands. He tesrs his eyes away from their hands, looking up at the stars. Ilmater, save me from myself. "I've never worried too much about my own honor and reputation, honestly. My life often doesn't feel like mine to-to do as I wish. But this feels freeing in a way that I haven't felt in a long while." Feeling like that's verging on way too honest, he looks back at Mathias and adds, "You're a dear friend to me Mathias. Sod what the assembled company says, you're a good man. The fact that you'd even be willing to do this proves that. I'd be honored to 'fake date' you, if you're willing to put up with the nonsense that counting me would entail."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He searches the other man's face for any sign of deception or discomfort, eyes flicking down to their now clasped hands. He te... "Do I have to wear ceremonial robes and attend church?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Do I have to wear ceremonial robes and attend church?" Delton snorts, "No. Not at all." He smiles, soft and a little lopsided, "I more mean that I tend to draw a lot of...unwanted attention. Even when I was married. I don't want to add onto your burdens. Not if I can help it."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton snorts, "No. Not at all." He smiles, soft and a little lopsided, "I more mean that I tend to draw a lot of...unwanted at... He squeezes Delton's hand and lets it go. "Helping a friend is far from adding to one's burdens. Again, I must apologize. You too, shall have to endure the opinions of many." He leaves the bit about how he won't be faking any of it unsaid. As he just said, his reputation will poison the well. He doesn't need to poison Delton forever.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He squeezes Delton's hand and lets it go. "Helping a friend is far from adding to one's burdens. Again, I must apologize. You... Mathias' words arouse Delton's first true smile that night, spreading across his entire face and shining like sunshine. "Then I suppose we both must deal with the other's baggage - as friends are wont to do." He glances back into the ballroom, "Frankly, I don't want to go back in there. They'll eat us both alive."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Mathias' words arouse Delton's first true smile that night, spreading across his entire face and shining like sunshine. "Then ... He sighs. "Yes, they truly are a chatty crowd. Perhaps they are the dragon they so frequently speak of~" he adds, attempting humor. Oh the irony.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He sighs. "Yes, they truly are a chatty crowd. Perhaps they are the dragon they so frequently speak of~" *he adds, attempting ... Delton cracks a smile at that, "Perish the thought. Any reasonable dragon wouldn't hoard as much as them and dance on as the things that bring them their gold perish." "From what I understand, dragons protect their treasures. The same cannot be said about them." All of this is said in a whisper, not wanting any of the gossips to overhear.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton cracks a smile at that, "Perish the thought. Any reasonable dragon wouldn't hoard as much as them and dance on as the thi... He stares at Delton for a tick, flabbergasted. He cannot be more right and he could very well put the puzzle together right his moment. He could expose Mathias entirely. He will have to be more careful...and he just upped the ante on himself thoughtlessly. "How right you are," he murmurs back. He stares up at the moon and prays to Selune, Bahamut, whomever is watching to be kind to him for once.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He stares at Delton for a tick, flabbergasted. He cannot be more right and he could very well put the puzzle together right his... Delton furrows his eyebrows at Mathias' clear disquiet at his words. He shrugs it off - maybe the nobles being willing to watch this town burn the ground unsettles the human more than he lets on. "Well, Mr. Elemmírë, let's dance. Give all of them something to really talk about." He shoots a cheeky smile at Mathias.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton furrows his eyebrows at Mathias' clear disquiet at his words. He shrugs it off - maybe the nobles being willing to watch ... He grins, knowing it shows off his sharper teeth and for once, he doesn't care. "I must warn you, Mr. Nailo. I am quite light on my feet~" He stands and holds out a gloved hand.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He grins, knowing it shows off his sharper teeth and for once, he doesn't care. "I must warn you, Mr. Nailo. I am quite light ... A laugh rings out at Mathias' words, much happier and carefree than Delton’s laughs earlier. And he can't help but notice Mathias' sharp teeth - and wonder what he's willing to do with them... As he shoves that thought down, he takes Mathias' hand. "I'll try my hardest to keep up."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > A laugh rings out at Mathias' words, much happier and carefree than Delton’s laughs earlier. And he can't help but notice Math... He tucks Delton's arm under his and escorts him through the opposite door, sweeping the man onto the floor into a waltz. He has eyes only for Delton.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He tucks Delton's arm under his and escorts him through the opposite door, sweeping the man onto the floor into a waltz. He has... He follows Mathias without question, smiling at the gossips that stare and point a little. He's a little self-satisfied, okay? Falling easily into step with Mathias, he places his hand on the other man's shoulder and his other hand in his. For a few moments, with Mathias' eyes only on him, he can pretend that this is real, rather than a farce destined to break his heart.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He follows Mathias without question, smiling at the gossips that stare and point a little. He's a little self-satisfied, okay?... The two clear the floor at one point, nimbly moving through a waltz into a viennese waltz, before ending with a hesistant bout of applause. But count on the local madame and the few head of households with poorer homesteads to start the clapping. Delton earns a rare fond smile from Mathias as the elf blushes a bit.Then the librarian follows the cleric from the dance floor to retrieve water for them both.

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *The two clear the floor at one point, nimbly moving through a waltz into a viennese waltz, before ending with a hesistant bout ... Delton gratefully takes a glass of water, downing about half of it in one go. His cheeks are still red from the attention, but he's truly happy. He didn't expect to feel that here of all places. "Now, where did you learn to dance like that, darling?" He asks, trying to fix his hair one-handed, "You were phenomenal."

He graciously accepts the water from the waitstaff and sips it. He has to be careful or steam will come out of his nose and well...librarians don't usually puff steam or smoke, dragons do. "Ah, well. I did once serve a kingdom not far from here as a royal librarian and...one of their wizards. I was trained in court-appropriate etiquette," he shrugs. "I have not valued it much in the last few decades, but I am thrilled it has come in handy tonight. Dancing is quite fun with the right partner." Another sip. "Now, how did you, a cleric of Ilmater, learn to dance?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He graciously accepts the water from the waitstaff and sips it. He has to be careful or steam will come out of his nose and wel... Delton nods, listening intently to the other man. "It is a lot of fun. I almost forgot how much I love to dance," he smiles at the waitstaff, thanking them when they bring him a wine as well. He places his arm in the crook of Mathias', both to sell their cover story and to make sure he doesn't lose the other man in the suction of the crowd. "My late husband - Theo - grew up in the wealthy circles of Waterdeep. The Naïlo family is old money, but don't really care much for titles and keeping up with social graces and whatever else..." He laughs a little, "But they do love a party. I got put through my paces when we were getting married. Waltzes, foxtrots, you name it, they made me learn it. It was fun though exhausting." Leaning up, he whispers, "If you ever need an excuse to dance away from this crowd, Nana - my mother-in-law - would surely send an invitation."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton nods, listening intently to the other man. "It is a lot of fun. I almost forgot how much I love to dance," he smiles at... “Ha, I shall keep that in mind. So you stay in touch with your late husband’s family? Did you have any children together?” They had spoken at broken and odd intervals about Theo and Delton’s relationship but not much was said about what happened after they were married or even what those in-laws had been like.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Ha, I shall keep that in mind. So you stay in touch with your late husband’s family? Did you have any children together?” *The... "Yes, I keep in touch with Mairwen and Tiberius. Nana and Papa - they treat me like their own son and I love them dearly. My own family is...well, it's complicated. I'd rather never see them again, if I can." His free hand unconsciously goes to his abdomen, to the last 'gift' his family ever gave him. "But, no children. We were looking into adopting but..." He sighs, sounding sad and looking toward the ceiling, "I suppose I shall just be satisfied with my sibling-in-laws children."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "Yes, I keep in touch with Mairwen and Tiberius. Nana and Papa - they treat me like their own son and I love them dearly. My own... He gives him a sympathetic look. "Perhaps someday, Delton. You will have a brood of your own." Of course he does not mean with him. Delton, of course, will settle down with someone proper someday. Not a dragon without a clan and a man without a past or direction for the future.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He gives him a sympathetic look. "Perhaps someday, Delton. You will have a brood of your own." *Of course he does not mean w... He shrugs, "Maybe someday," he hugs a little closer to Mathias as the crowd closes in around them, "but I'll be okay, regardless." His nieces and nephews are lovely. He misses them all dearly. He leans up again, "Is the gossip worth it to leave early? I can definitely make my excuses, seeing as the nobles are now avoiding me..." The Mother of the House will likely be upset with him, but it's not like the Church truly controls who he spends his time with. Though the current leadership acts like it.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He shrugs, "Maybe someday," he hugs a little closer to Mathias as the crowd closes in around them, "but I'll be okay, regardless... "Oh I will never turn down an early goodbye for these boring frivolities. Is there anyone you need to say goodbye to?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh I will never turn down an early goodbye for these boring frivolities. Is there anyone you need to say goodbye to?" He really should say his goodbyes to some of the nobles, despite it making his stomach turn a little. But Mathias' words echo in his head. You should be beholden to no one unless you want to be. "No, I think I can just slip out." The only person who's opinion I care about is coming with me.

And so that’s what they do. Mathias leads Delton back to the private balcony where they first decided to do this. And they depart down the hidden stair off to the side much like slipping out the back door. They laugh and muse on their way home while a certain irritated noble watches through the eyes of his own raven familiar.

Their lives proceed pretty much as before with just a few exceptions. Now, Delton greets Mathias with a kiss on the cheek, sometimes leaning over his desk to do so. When they go on walks, they link arms as if it's the most natural thing in the world. Delton is sure to bring Mathias' good qualities to the nobles - specifically the ones who can't seem to take a hint. Quothe, on the other hand, hates the entire charade.

The white raven watches his charge carefully. Mr. Elemmírë still disquiets him. He cannot figure out why his behavior is so suspicious. But, worst of all, he knows that Delton isn't faking and that this is just another thing to break his heart. He can't convince his stubborn charge to end it before it does so, however, so he's forced to watch with increasing dread.

The thing about Natan Blackfrond is, well, he doesn't know how to take 'no' for an answer. There's been flowers and gifts and public displays that serve to make Delton more uncomfortable than not. Natan says it's all in good faith. So Delton knows his options and that if he ever feels 'caged' he knows that there are 'concerned parties' willing to help him. (As if Natan's real intentions don't involve taking him to bed as soon as possible.) The other nobles still throw their hats in once in a while, mostly when Mathias disappears for a little while. And it's exhausting. So today, he almost storms into the library, a proverbial storm cloud above his head. He still takes his shoes off and hangs his cloak - he's not a heathen - but anyone can tell something is off. Mathias is no where in sight at the moment, so he bunkers down in a plush chair and wishes to just disappear for a while.

The librarian is somewhere in the stacks, humming to himself the melody that played the night that he and Delton danced together. He had escorted Delton home as any good suitor or friend might and then shut himself in the library, fled to his rooms and lie in bed all night wondering why Delton had kissed him in the first place and if...if this was a charade he could truly pretend to keep. He eventually came to the conclusion that the truth sometimes was easier to hide behind the obvious, especially when no one took you seriously.

He senses the foul mood entering the space before he can see it, so makes his way to the front and peeks around the corner of the book case...to find his favorite cleric steaming mad about something. He smirks to himself at first because an irritable Delton is quite adorable. But then he schools his features into something more appropriate—worry— and walks out from behind the shelf. "Good day, Delton. Why the sour mood, love?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He senses the foul mood entering the space before he can see it, so makes his way to the front and peeks around the corner of t... Delton raises his head and gives the wizard a weak smile, feeling just a little bit better from Mathias' presence and the nickname. "Hello, lovely." He sighs and runs a hand down his face, "I received a rather...vulgar poem this morning and then had no less than four people tell me I ought to pick a better suitor. When I finally got out of those Hellish conversations, I had to use one of the Madame's safe spaces to escape Blackfrond's attention. I'd rather wish they'd leave me alone, Mathias." In Waterdeep, it's not so hard. He's just one man in a city of millions. Here, he feels like he's always front and center. He's an Ilmateri. He doesn't weather constant attention like this well. "Sorry to bring the mood down in here, beloved. I just..." He blows hair out of his face. I know I'm safe with you.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton raises his head and gives the wizard a weak smile, feeling just a little bit better from Mathias' presence and the nickna... "Oh, I'm...curious about his vulgar poem," he admits with a chuckle. "Would you like a cup of tea? I'm glad the Madame could shelter you for a bit from the unwanted attentions."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh, I'm...curious about his vulgar poem," he admits with a chuckle. "Would you like a cup of tea? I'm glad the Madame could ... He rolls his eyes at the chuckle, smile fond. "I burned it when the paper started serenading me - but the first verse was something like:" "Over many nights I've dreamed of thee, gifting me your greatest treasures Of bruising kisses on the places where no other man has plundered For a thousand ships I would sail for you, never to be sundered *And gift thee with only the greatest greatest pleasures*" He turns a deadpan look on Mathias, "I was married for nearly two decades. I don't know why he thinks I'm some virginal maidan, love." "Tea would be great, darling. I just hate that I had to duck into an establishment to avoid him."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He rolls his eyes at the chuckle, smile fond. "I burned it when the paper started serenading me - but the first verse was some... He starts to tend to the tea for Delton and barks out a laugh at the idea of a paper serenading someone. Then he has the wherewithal to look a bit contrite. "Sorry, Delton, but that is a bit humorous. Please know I'm not laughing at you. I would never want to deprive you of *the greatest greatest pleasures*." He serves Delton a cup of tea and sits across from him.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > *He starts to tend to the tea for Delton and barks out a laugh at the idea of a paper serenading someone. Then he has the wherew... Delton pouts at him over tea, "He could have at least stolen some good smut from somewhere but no...that's what I wake up to this morning." He sighs before breaking out into his own fit of laughter, "Gods, if he thought that was good, I can't imagine his definition of bad poetry!" He's shaking his head, hair falling into his face. His cheeks are red from laughter and he's seemingly barely keeping his teacup steady.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton pouts at him over tea, "He could have at least stolen some good smut from somewhere but no...that's what I wake up to thi... "Imagine if you will — > Roses are red, > Your hair is too > *Be mine or I will be blue~*" he fake reads outloud then snorts and sips his tea.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Imagine if you will — > Roses are red, > Your hair is too > *Be mine or I will be blue~*" *he fake reads outloud then snor... Delton just laughs even louder at that, having to put his tea down to cover his face when he starts to do his snort-laugh. It's deeply unattractive, but Mathias is funny. He can't help it. "I'm sorry," he says between giggles, "That's exactly the type of rubbish he'd put on gifts and such." When he finally calms down a little, he smiles at Mathias, "And, it's an insult to you and I don't like that. It's not alright to keep pursuing all this pomp and circumstance when I'm taken." He can't help but reach out and squeeze Mathias' wrist. He realized early on that his hand makes him uncomfortable, so he compromised.

Mathias learned quickly that his longer gloves would be necessary with Delton as he was loathe to miss out on any affection from the elf so longer gloves it would have to be. So he stills and allows the elf to hold his wrist before twisting to hold his hand, gently. It was tempting to think maybe one day but no, Delton would never choose someone like him willingly. And much less likely if he knew what was under those gloves, what lurked under his skin. Ah, well. He would appreciate what affection he was given for now in whatever form it took. “Hmmm, I have not courted in many years. But I will say that you should not lower your bar of what is necessary. If we were truly courting, I would present you with far more interesting selections such as this one-“ He flips to a page in the book he had in his hand when he came to sit across from the cleric and reads aloud: >>> my thoughts about you are frightening but precise I can see the house on the hill where we make our own vegetables out back and drink warm wine out of jam jars and sing songs in the kitchen until the sun comes up when you make me feel like myself again.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Mathias learned quickly that his longer gloves would be necessary with Delton as he was loathe to miss out on any affection from... Delton squeezes his hand before interlocking their fingers, propping his head up on his hand. His smile is undeniably fond, almost dreamy where he's looking at Mathias. If only I were so lucky for you to actually court me, Mathias. If only I were so lucky. "Well, I don't want my own side of this courtship to be neglected. Hmm, I have a good one:" >>> The fountains mingle with the river And the rivers with the ocean, The winds of heaven mix forever With a sweet emotion; Nothing in the world is single; All things by a law divine In one spirit meet and mingle Why not I with thine?

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton squeezes his hand before interlocking their fingers, propping his head up on his hand. His smile is undeniably fond, al... "Oh that is a good one, isn't it? Hmmmm..." He puts the small book of poems down and ponders their hands for a moment, how nimble Delton's looks in his. He squeezes his hand and then stands, goes to a bookshelf and pulls down a book and reads. > Love has crept into her sealed heart > As a field bee, black and amber, > Breaks from the winter-cell, to clamber > Up the warm grass where the sunbeams start. > > Love has crept into her summery eyes, > And a glint of colored sunshine brings > Such as his along the folded wings > Of the bee before he flies. > > But I with my ruffling, impatient breath > Have loosened the wings of the wild young sprite; > He has opened them out in a reeling flight, > And down her words he hasteneth. > > Love flies delighted in her voice: > The hum of his glittering, drunken wings > Sets quivering with music the little things > That she says, and her simple words rejoice.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh that is a good one, isn't it? Hmmmm..." *He puts the small book of poems down and ponders their hands for a moment, how nim... Delton stares at where their hands were intertwined for a moment, his hand feeling cold. But he drags it away and tucks his arms across each other, resting his chin on his crossed arms. "I fear I can't keep up with a librarian when it comes to poetry, lovely. So you'd be sure to outshine me on that account." His smile and eyes are soft, taking in Mathias in his element. "I fear I'd be outdone in most areas. I am just a boy from a convent, after all." He's a little sad about that, despite figuring that this would be his closest chance at courting anyone - much less someone he felt so strongly for. Theo was a saint after all.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton stares at where their hands were intertwined for a moment, his hand feeling cold. But he drags it away and tucks his arms... "Oh, Delton." He places the book back on the shelf and comes back over to refill the elf's tea cup and his. "You are far more than where you come from. At least I hope so, being an orphan and all."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh, Delton." He places the book back on the shelf and comes back over to refill the elf's tea cup and his. "You are far more ... Delton gives a pained smile at that. "Not quite, love. My parents are very much alive. They just, decided I wasn't worth the space that I occupy and decided to try...well, it doesn't matter now." No need to go into your sob story Delton. It's all in the past. But parental rejection stings, regardless. "Thank you for the tea. And for making me laugh. You always know how to make me laugh, Mathias." He hums a little, looking around for some sort of distraction. He starts to study the collection of books on the cart Mathias was in the middle of reshelving.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton gives a pained smile at that. "Not quite, love. My parents are very much alive. They just, decided I wasn't worth the spa... "Oh...oh I meant myself. I'm sorry, Delton. I'm the orphan," he adds with a laugh. This isn't something to be sad about, he's never known parents truly. They...are a foreign concept to him. But something Delton says sticks with him. He decides not to press for now. "Let us get rid of the storm cloud that hovers over you. It does nothing for your warm smile. What makes you happy, Delton? What do you do for yourself?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh...oh I meant myself. I'm sorry, Delton. I'm the orphan," he adds with a laugh. This isn't something to be sad about, he's ne... His cheeks flush a bit at the compliment. He knows that Mathias is just being kind but it makes him feel warm inside that the other man notices his smile. What do I do for myself? Gods, when was the last time I did something just for myself? He seems a little lost for a few moments before saying, "Oh you know. The usual things....I do like to bake..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > His cheeks flush a bit at the compliment. He knows that Mathias is just being kind but it makes him feel warm inside that the ... "What kind of things do you like to bake? Do you have access to a kitchen?" He tries to ask it casually, but as he sips his tea he cannot be anything but interested. The librarian has an ravenous sweet tooth.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "What kind of things do you like to bake? Do you have access to a kitchen?" He tries to ask it casually, but as he sips his tea... "Oh, anything really. I love to make cupcakes because of being able to mix and match flavor profiles but I also love more complex stuff like cream puffs or tiramisu." He shrugs, "...Not really?" He kind of laughs at that, "The sisters and brothers who man the kitchen are a little...let's say territorial. So I don't really want to impede on their space."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "Oh, anything really. I love to make cupcakes because of being able to mix and match flavor profiles but I also love more comple... He stares at the elf for a moment. Then he stands very abruptly and rushes around the table, takes Delton's hand gently, and pulls him along in a hurry toward his quarters through the staff breakroom. His quarters are not lavish by any means, but they are furnished warmly with tons of furs and linens. His bed is a standard four-poster and he has a small 2-person table set in front of his fireplace that looks like he is using it currently as a desk. Opposite the fireplace is an open door to the lavatory but on the right is a door that opens to a decently sized kitchen. He always thought his quarters were actually meant for a small family potentially or a married couple. "I do not use my kitchen much," he explains as he pulls Delton through the door. "But it is clean and it is yours to use as you wish. Here is the backdoor if you'd prefer to use that to come and go." He gestures to the worn blue door, unlocking it with a key and relocking it before handing the key to Delton.

It's a rustic kitchen and the stove is old, but everything is clean and well polished. All the cabinets are stocked, but not overly so since only one person has lived here for the last few years.

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > It's a rustic kitchen and the stove is old, but everything is clean and well polished. All the cabinets are stocked, but not ove... Delton can't help but blink at the Mathias' theatrics. He sort of wants to make a joke about being dragged into Mathias' quarters, try to bring some levity for some reason. Because this feels intimate. Another little crack in Delton's foundation. Another thing that will lead to inevitable heartbreak. "Mathias, love, you don't need to give me the key to your house...I will bake for you anytime. You need only to ask." Despite his words, he clutches the key in his hands, staring down at it in something like wonder.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help but blink at the Mathias' theatrics. He sort of wants to make a joke about being dragged into Mathias' quarter... And he blushes a deep red. "O-oh, Bahamut's nutsack, I–I meant, that is to say, you—" He stops himself and clears his throat, shutting his eyes and breathing deep. "I never meant to be so forward, Delton. I apologize. I was...overtaken by excitement. You see, I have a huge predilection for sweet pastries. I was enjoyed them greatly as a child and that preference never really left me. I would be honored if you use my neglected kitchen to bake and make things to your heart's content. Even if I rarely get to eat them, I would still see a friend happy and fulfilled."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > And he blushes a deep red. "O-oh, Bahamut's nutsack, I–I meant, that is to say, you—" He stops himself and clears his throat, ... Delton's flush probably matches Mathias', even if there's a pang to his heart at that. Of course he doesn't mean it that way. He's just being a good friend, that's all. "I would love to do that. And I'll make sure to always save you at least one treat from the batch, for your generosity." I'd do it anyway. He takes in the kitchen, running a hand across the countertop and opening the cabinets. There's definitely enough here for a good batch of chocolate cupcakes, even if they won't be particularly fancy, and he tells Mathias as much.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton's flush probably matches Mathias', even if there's a pang to his heart at that. *Of course he doesn't mean it that way.... For a moment his tail almost slips into appearance with how much its wagging. "I would love a chocolate cupcake. Shall I...leave you to it? I think I hear the children coming in from their lessons."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > For a moment his tail almost slips into appearance with how much its wagging. "I would love a chocolate cupcake. Shall I...lea... Delton goes over and leans up to press a kiss on Mathias' cheek. "Go. Tend to the children. I will be here." He turns to the cabinets, pulling out ingredient after ingredient from the shelf. He's humming a little and does seem a little more at ease.

As he leaves the room, his cheek is tingling and he feels ridiculous. He's had lovers before...why is he feeling like a schoolboy? Preposterous. Say nothing of the fact that he lay in bed the night after the ball replaying that kiss in his head. The children rightfully tease him of looking bit peaky and he assures them its nothing, helping the older students find their research and the younger ones with their questions about their studies.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > As he leaves the room, his cheek is tingling and he feels ridiculous. He's had lovers before...why is he feeling like a schoolbo... Delton hums a little hymn while he's baking. Mathias has all the necessities for a basic cupcake and an accompanying frosting. And he's going to make sure it's good. He shoots a little flame at the oven to light it, adding kindling to make it grow. Then, he gets to work measuring out the ingredients and chopping up chocolate. The routine of it is soothing and makes him release tension he wasn't aware he was holding. He continues like this until the cakes go in the oven. Then, he repeats the steps for the icing.

The kitchen smells of cake and icing, subtly blowing into the library. The cupcakes - once fully iced - aren't the most gorgeous. Mathias has no piping bags, so Delton had to make do, but they taste good, which is what matters. Delton subtly sneaks into the library and leaves a cupcake on the librarian's desk.

Quothe, after doing his typical rounds and subtly misdirecting Blackfrond as to where his wayward charge is, decides to fly up to the kitchen window of Mathias' quarters. The other man should be tending to the children, but it never hurts to check on such a suspicious man. It's definitely not snooping. He's way too refined for that. But what surprises him is seeing Delton slaving away over an oven, sleeves rolled up and hair pulled back. He lands and props the window open a little more so he can be clearly seen. "What in the Nine Hells are you doing back here?"

The thing about familiars is that they are part of you. You tend to notice their comings and goings. So he doesn't jump when Quothe makes his entrance. He just sighs. "Mathias was kind enough to offer me his kitchen to bake. I figured it would be a good way to destress, especially since I'm missing being in my own home." He wipes some sweat off of his brow with his sleeve and continues, "I'm making him dinner as a thank you."

Quothe tuts a bit. He still doesn't approve of his charge's friendship with Mathias'. The human is hiding something and, thus, untrustworthy. "How awfully domestic. When will the wedding be?" His tone is caustic. He's not fond of the whole 'fake courting' situation either. It will break Delton's heart inevitably. Because his charge gives his heart out way too freely.

Delton rolls his eyes, placing the seared meat in the oven and then chopping up the vegetables that would make up most of his meal. He doesn't mind, after all. He's used to noodles and vegetables anyway.

Meanwhile...in the library proper, the librarian is helping a student understand basic algebra.

"Master Elemmire, Master Elemmire," the child calls out while tugging on his sleeve.

> Reply to: @Tiefling Child (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Master Elemmire, Master Elemmire," the child calls out while tugging on his sleeve. "Ah, excuse me, Gregory. Yes, Elissa, what is it?"

"There's a surprise on your desk. I think Master Nailo put it there," she whispers conspiratorily.

> Reply to: @Tiefling Child (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "There's a surprise on your desk. I think Master Nailo put it there," she whispers conspiratorily. He smiles kindly at Elissa. She's always noticing all the small comings and going, the patterns and proceedings. She will make a fine ranger or hunter some day. "Now, Elissa. I appreciate you telling me this but how is your handwriting lesson?"

She flushes and wrings her hands.

"Is your writing instrument giving you issues again?"

She nods shyly, a bit embarrassed again.

Delton sneaks out of Mathais' quarters now that everything is just being kept warm in the oven. Quothe is there to alert him if anything goes wrong as well. He leans against the doorframe, just watching Mathias with the children.

"Come, I'm sure whatever treat has been left for me will keep. Surely none of your classmates would be so cruel as to steal something not meant for them...especially if that treat is a preview of many to come, hmmm?" he asks a bit louder than necessary so that everyone hears the warning and potential promise in his words. He accompanies the child back to her spot at a library table and he assesses her writing and issues holding her quill. "Ah. I see. Elissa, switch hands for me please." The child transfers the quill to her other hand and seems to find better purchase on the writing instrument. She writes a few words and then beams up at him. "Elissa, I do believe you are left-handed. I will see to getting you notebooks made for left-handed persons. Make sure to tell your instructors that you are left-handed from here on out and if they take issue with that, inform them that the library will supplement whatever resources you need." Then he turns to look and see what the treat is on his desk and spots Delton in the doorway of the library staff breakroom.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Come, I'm sure whatever treat has been left for me will keep. Surely none of your classmates would be so cruel as to steal some... Delton gives a little wave, a fond smile on his face. He's studying the children, most of whom are very diligently studying. They seem to like Mathias quite a lot. 'Ignore me,' he mouths at Mathias, happy to let the other man be in his element. He has his own classes to teach after dinner, so he doesn't want to interrupt.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton gives a little wave, a fond smile on his face. He's studying the children, most of whom are very diligently studying. T... He dismisses the his concerns with a wave of his hand as he strides over, shoes clicking along the floor. "They were just finishing up anyhow. They were very adamant I examine a treat someone left at my desk." His eyes find the cupcake and he picks it up to examine it. "Mmmm, this looks delicious, Delton." He definitely picks it up with his gloved hands.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He dismisses the his concerns with a wave of his hand as he strides over, shoes clicking along the floor. "They were just finis... Delton laughs at that, ringing out in the normally quiet space. He tries to muffle it. They're in a library after all. "I wonder who could've left such a treat?" When he sobers up slightly, a fond smile remains on his face. "It's not my prettiest work, but the flavors should be there." "But only one cupcake or you'll spoil your dinner," he mock scolds, the smile splitting his face.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton laughs at that, ringing out in the normally quiet space. He tries to muffle it. They're in a library after all. "I wonder... He tries to take as delicate a bite as he can manage with his his beard and all. He chews it thoughtfully, an appreciative rumble in his chest. He silently sweats a little that Delton might think that purr that tried to kickstart up might be something suspicious and hums instead. The chocolate and coffee flavors are wonderful and the cupcake is moist. Mathias cannot be anything but pleased. He pops the rest in his mouth and chews happily, a small smile on his face. Then he takes a sip of water and takes his handkerchief out to wipe his gloves and face. "That was delightful, Delton. Did I miss anything?"

The librarian has indeed missed a smudge of frosting on the corner of his mouth and leading into his beard.

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > The librarian has indeed missed a smudge of frosting on the corner of his mouth and leading into his beard. Delton can't help his smile at Mathias' clear enjoyment of the cupcake. "You-oh, let me," he says, laughing fondly. He reaches up to swipe at the corner of Mathias' mouth with his thumb, managing to get most of it. He cheekily pops it into his mouth. Did he have to do that? No. Is it making me happy to be this close to the man he lo-likes with no consequences? Yes. Plus, they're 'courting.' It's totally for the sake of that. (Nevermind the only witnesses are children who don't gossip.)

He watches Delton suck on his own thumb a bit too long most likely. Want churns in his stomach a bit and his mind supplies him with visions of chasing that thumb with his own tongue before biting down on it. He looks down and his cheeks turn a bit pink as he wipes at his mouth again. Wait... "What do you mean only one or I will spoil my dinner?" he asks, remembering that Delton offhandedly mentioned his next meal. He usually ate small meals by himself with a decent glass of wine or took dinner at the local tavern with the Madame and her throng. However in the last tenday or so, he had dined with Delton twice at the convent, listening to the other clerics and priests chatter on about propriety and holiness while he smirked over the table at the trainee healers. The second time he had dined with Delton, the cleric had instead asked him to sit at a private table away from the rest of the throng.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He watches Delton suck on his own thumb a bit too long most likely. Want churns in his stomach a bit and his mind supplies him w... Delton smiles at the blush painting Mathias' face. This might not be real, but he can savor it while it lasts. "Well, I made an entire batch of cupcakes. And as a thank you for your generous offer of your kitchen, I made dinner." His cheeks go a little pink at that, ducking his head. It might be far too forward. An imposition, almost. "Surprise?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton smiles at the blush painting Mathias' face. This might not be real, but he can savor it while it lasts. "Well, I made a... His heart pangs with bittersweet emotion. To be tempted with something he won't be able to keep. The dragon is positively chewing the bars of its cage inside him. But this is all make-believe. To keep Delton safe from harm and abuse. He's angry that this is necessary at all. The cleric should be cozying by the fire of someone who will appreciate him for his talents and his company, not just his name and potential. He does his best to paint on his warmest smile, hiding the hurt of what comes in the future. "You are too kind to me, friend. I appreciate the gesture more than you know."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His heart pangs with bittersweet emotion. To be tempted with something he won't be able to keep. The dragon is positively chewin... Delton can sense the hesitancy behind that smile, but he decides not to push. Besides, he's spending time masking how much the word 'friend' hurts. Because that's all they are. This is all a charade. He reaches out to grab Mathias' hand and squeezes it. "You can finish up here love, and I will go set the table."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can sense the hesitancy behind that smile, but he decides not to push. Besides, he's spending time masking how much the w... He panics. "Oh! Oh that is my private research. I— would you stand here for a moment and I will go and clear that from the table." He doesn't really give Delton a chance to answer but he squeezes his hand in return and rushes into the back to clear his papers from the table. He's cursing himself the whole while for being a damned fool and leaving his private notes and journal out in the open. Idiot. He stacks the sheafs and folios carefully, sliding the protective thin wooden bits between them. Then he marks his place in his journal and slides all of it into his chest, before locking it shut with a wave of Arcane Lock. Then he takes a deep breath and lights the fire with a snap before walking back out to the front desk.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He panics. "Oh! Oh that is my private research. I— would you stand here for a moment and I will go and clear that from the tabl... Delton blinks and watches Mathias go. He's adorable when he's flustered. He shoves that thought down before deciding to tend to the last few children who need to head out. He helps one boy pack his satchel. The child was struggling with organization it seemed, so he explained the best way to remember what goes where - well, in his opinion at least. He helps a few people check out some books for their research, meticulously detailing their names as well as the names of the books and their call numbers. Finally, he collects the books left on the tables to be reshelved. Bringing the cart over to place them on it. "Oh, love. I figured I'd help you back up!" He shoots a bright smile Mathias' way.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton blinks and watches Mathias go. He's adorable when he's flustered. He shoves that thought down before deciding to ten... "Heavens above, you are an angel. Thank you, Delton. These entries are very detailed, a wonderful job," he adds as he looks over the book ledger. "Well, I have cleared the table and started the fire. I do not keep many wines about but I am sure I have a few. Is there one you would prefer?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Heavens above, you are an angel. Thank you, Delton. These entries are very detailed, a wonderful job," he adds as he looks over... His cheeks go pink again at the compliment and he tries to shrug it off, "Oh, I just wanted to help. It was no trouble really. Just doing what you would do for me." He rubs the back of his neck in embarrassment. If Mathias were to look closely, he'd see the pink running down Delton’s neck. "I don't mind. I made beef, so it might be better with red wine." He doesn't eat meat, so it doesn't trouble him either way.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > His cheeks go pink again at the compliment and he tries to shrug it off, "Oh, I just wanted to help. It was no trouble really. J... "Ah yes, red it is then." He doesn't see anything amiss, but he's often stupefied by the light hits Delton's hair in the golden hour. It makes everything rose gold and he kind of get a little punch drunk.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Ah yes, red it is then." He doesn't see anything amiss, but he's often stupefied by the light hits Delton's hair in the golden... A bright smile is leveled Mathias' way before Delton grabs the wizard’s hand to pull him into the kitchen. He quickly places the cut of beef onto a plate for Mathias and then puts both rice and vegetables on both plates. He gives Quothe some of the scraps, as a treat for watching over the meal. Bringing both plates over, he places them down and gestures at the table. "I hope this will do. I'm not the best chef, but I can make a good meal."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > A bright smile is leveled Mathias' way before Delton grabs the wizard’s hand to pull him into the kitchen. He quickly places t... He uncorks the wine from his shelf, pouring it into his only two wine glasses as Delton sets their food out. "It looks delicious. You do yourself a disservice, Delton." He pulls the chair our for Delton. Fake dating or not, he's a gentleman.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He uncorks the wine from his shelf, pouring it into his only two wine glasses as Delton sets their food out. "It looks delicio... Delton smiles graciously at Mathias, ducking his head slightly to hide the way his heart started jumping at that. "Thank you, love. Such a gentleman." He watches the wizard sit before he says, "You're good with them. The kids, I mean."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton smiles graciously at Mathias, ducking his head slightly to hide the way his heart started jumping at that. "Thank you, lo... “Ah. Thank you, I think. I’ve never had a predilection toward children.” He cuts into his dinner and it is as flavorful as it appears. He makes an appreciative noise and dives in.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Ah. Thank you, I think. I’ve never had a predilection toward children.” *He cuts into his dinner and it is as flavorful as it ... Delton laughs a little at that. "It's a compliment, I assure you. Most people don't treat children as people and, well, you do. A lovely change of pace." He smiles at the man diving into the food, "I'm glad you like it." He's slowly spearing vegetables and eating them. He's never been the best eater, but being around people helps. "Did you manage to get any research done today?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton laughs a little at that. "It's a compliment, I assure you. Most people don't treat children as people and, well, you do. ... “I…well. Not as much as I would like but I think the plague might not be a plague at all.” He takes a long sip of wine. “I believe it might be motivated by an arcane or divine source.”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “I…well. Not as much as I would like but I think the plague might not be a plague at all.” He takes a long sip of wine. “I be... He hums consideringly, "I mean, it would make sense. A true plague wouldn't be so...precise?" He gathers his thoughts as he takes another bite, "It's not spreading like any disease I have seen before. It's like it picks off one creature at a time..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He hums consideringly, "I mean, it would make sense. A true plague wouldn't be so...precise?" He gathers his thoughts as he tak... “Yes. And it doesn’t…consume them.” Very odd. Then he looks over Delton’s shoulder and sees Quothe quarreling with something or someone. He subtly waves his hand under the table and hears a shriek and cursing outside. Good ol’ create water in these cold temps. Someone likely just busted their ass. “And are you feeling better having baked a bit?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Yes. And it doesn’t…consume them.” Very odd. Then he looks over Delton’s shoulder and sees Quothe quarreling with something o... Delton turns around when he hears the shriek outside, followed by cursing. All he can see is Quothe looking self-satisfied - well, as self-satisfied as a bird can look. He narrows his eyebrows but the raven ignores him. When it's clear that the cursing is more frustration than genuine pain, he turns back to Mathias. "Oh, yes, thank you. I feel much more relaxed than I have in a long while. I really appreciate it," he says with a smile, reaching over to squeeze Mathias' free hand.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton turns around when he hears the shriek outside, followed by cursing. All he can see is Quothe looking self-satisfied - w... Gods above, he just wants to fall to his knees and put his head in this man’s lap. He squeezes back gently instead. “How do you feel about cookies?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Gods above, he just wants to fall to his knees and put his head in this man’s lap. He squeezes back gently instead. “How do yo... The earnest way Mathias asks about cookies makes him smile. Probably a little too fondly, a little too much in his gaze. What can he do? He's only a man, after all. He doesn't release Mathias' hand. "I love cookies. My favorite are snickerdoodle but I can make pretty much anything." "If you have a favorite, I can definitely see if I can whip them up at some point."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The earnest way Mathias asks about cookies makes him smile. Probably a little too fondly, a little too much in his gaze. What c... "Hum. Chocolate chip I think I would have to say. Followed closely by something with a nut butter. I do also like sour tasting thing. I think it might be my—" He almost blurts it out, simple and straight: 'my dragon tongue seeking new sensations.' He feigns a cough and clears his throat, taking a sip of his wine. "Ah sorry, had a catch in my throat. As I was saying, I think it might be a sensory seeking endeavor. Sour things, I mean."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Hum. Chocolate chip I think I would have to say. Followed closely by something with a nut butter. I do also like sour tasting t... Delton takes note of that. He might even be thinking of making peanut butter chocolate chip cookies. He might be a little far gone on Mathias Elemmírë. Like, 'no coming back from this' gone. "I eat certain things solely because of the texture, so I understand completely. I can probably whip something up if I had limes or lemons..." He hums thoughtfully, absently rubbing his thumb along the back of Mathias' hand. It might be a little pathetic, but it helps him pretend that this isn't just a charade. "Are you cold, love? Is that why you always wear gloves? I'm sure if can find some better charmed ones for you..." He keeps idly rubbing his thumb along Mathias' hand. He eats some more vegetables in the silence. "I want to thank you, really. You put up with a lot for my sake and I'm...really glad you're in my life, Mathias."

He sits with that information for a long while. Probably an uncomfortable amount of time for Delton, but his brain needs to examine it from every angle. The glove does nothing to keep the warmth of Delton's thumb from traveling across his hand, stoking a fire that the elf isn't even aware of. Mathias is at war with himself because surely, surely Delton wouldn't be this affectionate with just any friend, fake dating or otherwise. But Delton has also made it clear that the salacious approaches of his other suitors have been unreturned, wholeheartedly so perhaps Delton just is this way. It is an odd thing for the librarian to have this attention turned onto himself. Again, he reminds the dragon, reminds himself, to enjoy it while he has the opportunity to do so. "Delton. I will admit I have been rather lonely for most of my life. The problems of others that have been shared with me are often vapid or insipid things meant to further goals or appearances I did not agree with. So when I say this, I do not mean it lightly. I do not do things without meaning them." He pauses before he continues. "You have become a dear friend to me over this several tenday and I appreciate the good nature you bring to both the village and our shared concern. It is not a burden in the slightest and I am glad to be of service. I am glad for your light, Delton, you mean so much to me as well." What he doesn't say is that he wants to keep him forever, challenge Ilmater for his loyalty in the Astral Plane some day. He doesn't say that Delton is a treasure to behold and he wants to hoard him away like the villains in novels or the idiot Blackfrond pretends not to be. He doesn't say that he, Mathias Elemmire, is no better than the suitors working to bed Delton because he isn't being honest either. No, instead he smiles gently and tries to foresee a way forward that does not end in tears or heartbreak.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He sits with that information for a long while. Probably an uncomfortable amount of time for Delton, but his brain needs to exam... Then why did you kiss me back? Why can't we do this forever? Why does this have to be a giant farce? He wants to scream these words, wants to put his whole heart on the table. But, deep down, Delton Naïlo is still just a scared kid - scared of rejection from the people he loves. He doesn't know if his heart can handle another heartbreak. So, delaying the inevitable seems the better option. Because he's happy just to have Mathias at all. In this tiny, nonsensical, farsical way. Maybe he's a coward for that. He's okay with that. He lifts up Mathias' hand and presses a soft kiss to his palm, the leather getting in the way of the action. He can't help himself. He might be a coward, but he's a lovesick one. "I hope you know I don't do things I don't mean either, Mathias," he glances up through his eyelashes, "Your hands are much too cold. I'll have to get you a charmed pair."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Then why did you kiss me back? Why can't we do this forever? Why does this have to be a giant farce? He wants to scream thes... Oh. This is...not right. Ill-advised. And then the cleric kisses his palm and he remembers why none of this will work in truth. "Oh, um, thank you. Shall I walk you home?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Oh. This is...not right. Ill-advised. And then the cleric kisses his palm and he remembers why none of this will work in truth. ... Delton is a master at hiding his own disappointment, so he doesn't deflate at that reaction. "Ever the gentleman, Mathias. Yes, I'd appreciate that." He gets up to start putting the food and dirty dishes away, "You can keep the cupcakes, lovely. I don't like to eat them as much as I like to make them, to be honest." He shoots a smile over his shoulder at the librarian.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton is a master at hiding his own disappointment, so he doesn't deflate at that reaction. "Ever the gentleman, Mathias. Yes... This teasing is going to drive him to madness. The dragon is already roaring and gnashing teeth. He can feel a rut edging in, his body running hotter as hormones ramp up. Especially with those loaded looks. Tonight would be...a hands-on night. "Thank you again for the cupcakes. I look forward...to them all," he ends with a laugh. He helps Delton tidy the kitchen and dishes and then opens the door for Delton to escort him home into the early night. There is a small patch of ice and he looks over at Quothe to give him a wink as he gently lifts Delton over the patch of ice. He sets the cleric down and offers his arm.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > This teasing is going to drive him to madness. The dragon is already roaring and gnashing teeth. He can feel a rut edging in, hi... Quothe snorts - well as much of a snort as possible in this form. He supposes the librarian isn't all bad. Though he does feel this whole charade will end in tears. But he will be here, to pick up the pieces of Delton when he shatters.

Delton can't help but laugh at being picked up. "I always forget how small I am to people, really. Until they can easily pick me up like that." He's small is a combination of malnutrition and stress as a child, but it wouldn't do to bring down the mood of this lovely night. He links his arm with Mathias, easily falling into step with him. "It used to bother me a lot more, but it comes in handy as a ranger. Easy to get into difficult to reach spots."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help but laugh at being picked up. "I always forget how small I am to people, really. Until they can easily pick ... "Oh, you are also a ranger? Interesting. Big animal lover I take it, not much a hunter?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Oh, you are also a ranger? Interesting. Big animal lover I take it, not much a hunter?" Delton laughs at that, "No, um, before the convent had to take me in, I grew up in a druid circle. Learned to be ranger there..." And a lot of other things, his brain unhelpfully adds. He watches his raven soar above them for a moment, before looking back in front of him, not wanting to slip and fall. "I love animals. They're just as much varied and loving and wonderful as people. I don't eat meat because I don't like the idea of eating things who I can talk to, to be honest." "I think no creature deserves to be culled for existing. It's one thing to hunt for meat, but sport hunting makes me sick. And so many so-called 'monsters' are really just scared. I'm not saying we let the undead roam free, but, well, the town's talk about the inherent danger of dragons is...very concerning to me." He feels he can trust Mathias enough to reveal that. "I don't know why nobles chase after me so much, when I tend to be so diametrically opposed to them."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton laughs at that, "No, um, before the convent had to take me in, I grew up in a druid circle. Learned to be ranger there...... "Hmmm, I find that the ruling class often thinks they can mold those with potential into something they would prefer. They prefer their machinations to honesty. Sounds exhausting, to be frank," he adds grumpily. The village is not large so they are at Delton's stairwell in no time. "Thank you again for a lovely meal, Delton."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Hmmm, I find that the ruling class often thinks they can mold those with potential into something they would prefer. They prefe... Delton nods in agreement. "The Naïlos are old money but never kept up with that. It's a thing I loved with them." He leans up to press another kiss on Mathias' cheek, "Thank you for sharing it with me, Mathias. Keep warm." He heads into the convent.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton nods in agreement. "The Naïlos are old money but never kept up with that. It's a thing I loved with them." He leans up t... Delton kisses his cheek again and Mathias does his best not to burst into flames. He waits until Delton is inside before turning and heading home, belly full and heart burning.

The pale man sneers at Mathias as he passes by along the street. "Traitor," he hisses, eyes flashing and sporting a limp.

He laughs and keeps walking, offering only, "Watch your step, Blackfrond."

The days go in much the same way. Delton does his research in the library and Mathias continues as the town's stalwart librarian. Both continue to dance around each other, neither ready to take the plunge. But, around a tenday later, Mathias is shocked by his back door slamming open and an inhuman screech accompanying it.

Quothe is panicking. He's far beyond worry or anxiety. He's in a full-on panic. Delton is shaking and so pale he's white. His charge has been moaning - in pain and for relief from something inhumane for close to an hour. Quothe is not a healer, not by a longshot. But his charge has dealt with enough foolish young people messing around with Underdark drugs to recognize this. Delton has been dosed by an aphrodisiac. In the very convent that is supposed to be succoring him. Frankly, the raven didn't know where else to turn. His convent is clearly not safe and the only other person he trusts in this town is the Madame. While he's sure that she would do her best, a brothel is not the place for an involuntarily sexed-up person. So he, through careful applications of Silence spells andMage Hands, managed to drag Delton here. After depositing him against the railing, he casts another Mage Hand to get the key Mathias had fortunately given him and unlocks the door. He doesn't know if Mathias can speak with animals, so he settles for screeching. -# @Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)

> Reply to: @Quothe, the Raven (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Quothe is panicking. He's far beyond worry or anxiety. He's in a full-on panic. Delton is shaking and so pale he's white. His ... He can sense it before the back kitchen door bangs open but it surprises him none the less, his hands already slipped into his gloves and electrified, ready to fry the intruder. But then it's Quothe squawking and screeching. "What the hells is going on here—" he asks rushing to the door.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He can sense it before the back kitchen door bangs open but it surprises him none the less, his hands already slipped into his g... The raven can't bring himself to speak just flying back out to the porch. His charge looks even worse than he had a minute ago. ||"It's alright Delton. Help is coming, but you need to be strong and stay awake, okay? I know the pain hurts but falling asleep will make it worse."||

Delton is pale as a sheet and slumped over the railing. He's holding his stomach protectively and everything burns. Aphrodisiacs - especially when you are dosed against your will - tend to be far more painful than pleasurable. Your body is fighting itself, creating hormones it shouldn't, just to try and burn out the drug in the system. "M-Mathais? H-Help..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton is pale as a sheet and slumped over the railing. He's holding his stomach protectively and everything burns. Aphrodisi... He stops short and stares. He can smell the want oozing from Delton's pores and all he can do is war with himself. On one hand, he wants to pin Delton to the floor and fuck him senseless, fix it and make it all better. On the other hand, he wants to lock him in the library and tear out of here to burn the village to the ground. Find whomever dosed Delton and rip them limb from limb. He struggled with indecision as he stares at a the sweaty, aroused elf that he had been fantasizing about in his bed almost nightly with a hand tight on his cock or rutting into a slick hole made by his own tail.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He stops short and stares. He can smell the want oozing from Delton's pores and all he can do is war with himself. On one ... Tears track down Delton’s face and sweat streaks his skin. "Hurts...so much...don't want...to take...but *hurts,*" his breathing is labored, almost like every breath is causing him pain. He feels like he's on fire. He feels like he's about to pass out from the pain. Why do people do this willingly? "M-Mathias?"

> Reply to: @Quothe, the Raven (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The raven can't bring himself to speak just flying back out to the porch. His charge looks even worse than he had a minute a... So he decides but first he looks at Quothe, resolve firm on his face. It would be a shame to have to lock the raven in a cupboard with a hold spell. “Can you find out who did this?” he growls.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > So he decides but first he looks at Quothe, resolve firm on his face. It would be a shame to have to lock the raven in a cupbo... Quothe nods, looking as murderous as a raven can look. ||"I will not leave a stone unturned, Master Elemmírë. I will be sure to get as many animals out as possible, to make the search even more thorough."|| ||"You will take care of him?"|| His black eyes study Mathias' seriously.

> Reply to: @Quothe, the Raven (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Quothe nods, looking as murderous as a raven can look. ||"I will not leave a stone unturned, Master Elemmírë. I will be sure t... He doesn’t speak raven or even have speak with animals but a nod is a nod. So he nods back and springs into action. He is at the door in a few long legged strides and scooping Delton up. The raven flies out into the night so he flicks his hand and the door and window snap shut, Arcane Lock flaring into place on both. “Shhhhh,” he coos, carrying Delton out of the kitchen and into his bedroom. “I’m here. Delton, how lucid are you?” He attempts to examine Delton’s pupils.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He doesn’t speak raven or even have speak with animals but a nod is a nod. So he nods back and springs into action. He is at t... Delton immediately leans into the contact, it feeling like a cool balm on his skin. It's not nearly enough, but he's only boiling alive now, not actively on fire. He moans in pain, "Enough...been a bell...I think...s-sorry...hurts so much...*please*," his voice is strained and turns into a whine by the end of his speech.

TAKETAKETAKE No. The instinct huffs and puffs and Mathias growls at Delton's whine. "Delton Nailo. You cannot consent right now. Do you understand that? I am sorry for what will transpire next." He lets instinct guy him a little, seeing those pupils blown so wide they almost swallow the iris. His gloved hands stroke the tacky hair from Delton's face and one slides into his hair and gripped the back of his head, tilting his head back. "Answer me, please."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > TAKETAKETAKE No. The instinct huffs and puffs and Mathias growls at Delton's whine. "Delton Nailo. You cannot consent ... Delton nods, fresh tears tracking down his face. "Y-Yes...I'm s-sorry..." He's whimpering and shivering, leaning into the hold in his hair. He bares his throat, unsure as to why he does but it feels appropriate. He just wants the pain to stop.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton nods, fresh tears tracking down his face. "Y-Yes...I'm s-sorry..." He's whimpering and shivering, leaning into the hol... He growls in warning. "I will make an exception this time, but do your best not to apologize for what you cannot control." He keeps a hand on Delton's hair and strokes his face with other, gloves a terrible and necessary barrier. He wants more than anything to rip them off. At least they are soft and supple. "Now Delton, I will stop you if you find a boundary you cannot cross, but be a good boy and take what you need," he purrs.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He growls in warning. "I will make an exception this time, but do your best not to apologize for what you cannot control." He k... His eyes are glassy and blown wide. He hesitantly reaches out to touch and it's like a dam breaks. He surges upwards to kiss Mathias, teeth clacking together more than anything else. He wants to touch and be touched, to hold and be held. He rapidly unbuttons his shirt, the fabric sticking to his skin with sweat before he manages to tug it off, barely managing not to get tangled. "Touch me...please..." He begs into Mathias' mouth as he tries to rip off the other man's shirt. It's hard to do that when he's so busy trying to grind up against Mathias' thigh, the movement jerky and uncontrolled.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > His eyes are glassy and blown wide. He hesitantly reaches out to touch and it's like a dam breaks. He surges upwards to kiss Mat... Seeing Delton break free from inhibition is a gift in itself. He shivers and kisses him back urgently, sharp teeth nipping at his mouth and seizes his hands in his own. But he does push his thigh forward against Delton's hard cock. "Now, now, little cleric. You unfortunately have found a boundary. I will have to remain clothed tonight in my shirt and pants and gloves. But you are still free to touch," he adds placing Delton's hands on his own chest where his heart threatens to break free. He resumes kissing and stroking his hands through Delton's hair, teasing down his back.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Seeing Delton break free from inhibition is a gift in itself. He shivers and kisses him back urgently, sharp teeth nipping at hi... Delton whines pathetically into Mathias' mouth at those words. But he can't help but gasp into the wizard’s mouth as he grinds down onto the prooffered thigh. Shaky hands start to undo his pants, feeling far too hot and constricted by the fabric. But to push them off would mean he has to stop his desperate grinding. He whimpers and moans, kissing Mathias back with everything he has. His hands fist into the other man's shirt after scrabbling on nothing for a few moments. "Mathias, *please*-" he releases a high-pitched keen.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton whines pathetically into Mathias' mouth at those words. But he can't help but gasp into the wizard’s mouth as he grinds d... "Yes, darling~" he coos. His hands snake into the back of his unbuttoned pants and push them down to grope and palm his soft ass. He licks and kisses gently—no need for even more gossip— down Delton's jaw and noses along his pointed ear. "Delton," he whispers, using the leverage of his hands to encourage the cleric to ride his thigh. "Can you spill in your pants, my good boy?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Yes, darling~" he coos. His hands snake into the back of his unbuttoned pants and push them down to grope and palm his soft ass... Delton whimpers when Mathias takes ahold of his ass, pushing into the contact. He feels like it's a million degrees, like his internal temperature has skyrocketed so high. Like Mathias is the only relief. He keeps thrusting and riding Mathias' thigh, sucking on the wizard’s lower lip and biting on it, probably harder than he should. "Want to be...good? Please..." he gasps into Mathias' mouth before releasing a sad whimper, "...empty, 'thias-"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton whimpers when Mathias takes ahold of his ass, pushing into the contact. He feels like it's a million degrees, like his ... Oh now isn't that a thought. Delton stuffed full of his cock and plugged up by that stupid new appendage—a knot, he believe it is called? The thought makes him shiver. "We must pace ourselves, sweetness. Now, you said you want to be good for me? Come." His hands tightened around his ass and he takes control, dragging Delton up and down his thigh faster.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Oh now isn't that a thought. Delton stuffed full of his cock and plugged up by that stupid new appendage—a knot, he believe it i... The added pressure combined with Mathias taking control sends him spiraling over the edge. His eyes roll back - vision whiting out - and his entire body tenses, before shuddering through his orgasm with a choked-off scream. When he comes to a few seconds later, he's still incredibly pent up. It had slaked the fire enough to give him a bit of his lucidness back, but he still feels like he's boiling alive. "Gods, 'thias - need more," he gasps out before slamming their lips together in a desperate kiss, trying to coax Mathias' tongue into his mouth to suck on the organ.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The added pressure combined with Mathias taking control sends him spiraling over the edge. His eyes roll back - vision whiting... Delton spilling into his pants has the dragon shouting, roaring in triumph. His hands cup the cleric's face and he kisses back earnestly, tracing his tongue along Delton's teeth. He lays him down gently while indulging the redhead with kiss after kiss. He works Delton's pants off and kicks his own shoes off. And now, true to his word, he's still clothed and Delton is not. His cock stands proudly, angry and his smooth alabaster skin is a revelation. He scoops Delton up, rolling them so Delton is on top. He pull away and even though Delton whines, he shushes him and guides the elf to sit on his face. He starts with cleaning Delton off, licking along his pale cock and cleaning his spend off. Then he noses down toward the cleric's scrotum and licks along his perineum. He finally pulls Delton forward enough to start working on his rear entrace.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Delton spilling into his pants has the dragon shouting, roaring in triumph. His hands cup the cleric's face and he kisses back e... As Mathias lays him down, Delton can't help but cup the other man's face and run his thumbs across his cheekbones. Sex, for him, has always been more about intimacy than release, after all. How unfortunate that the drug pumping through his body demands release. He runs his hands up and down Mathias' torso, fabric in the way of skin to skin contact. But he's not too far gone to push a boundary that has been set, so he contents himself with feeling the planes of Mathias through fabric. When Mathias rolls them, he gasps into their kiss, unable to help the whine he releases when the wizard pulls away completely. But he releases a shuddering yelp when Mathias' tongue runs along the length of his cock. He keens when that wicked tongue laves over his entrance, burying his hands in Mathias' hair and keeping his legs open by force to not hurt Mathias. "M-Mathias, *fuck,*" his voice comes out in a moan and he can't help but cant his bottom downward to meet that clever tongue, trying to meet the thrust of it as best as he can. He can't help but pull on Mathias' hair, not with it enough to fully realize he's doing it.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > As Mathias lays him down, Delton can't help but cup the other man's face and run his thumbs across his cheekbones. Sex, for him,... He can feel his tail trying to shimmer into existence, whipping about in a frenzy, so he has to double down on his concentration. Say nothing about how his cock strains against his pants. He pulls away for a moment, pressing kisses to both of Delton's inner thighs. "Delton, succumb. Grab my hair, ignore propriety, and let go. You will not hurt me." Anymore than you already have in the future when my heart is cold and lonely once more. He resumes teasing the rim of his ass before finally pushing that tongue inside, with one hand on Delton's hip to guide him and the other lightly teasing and stroking his cock.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He can feel his tail trying to shimmer into existence, whipping about in a frenzy, so he has to double down on his concentration... He shivers at the kisses to his thighs, an area that has always been particularly sensitive for him. Rocking down on the teasing pressure, Delton keens when Mathias' tongue slips inside. He grabs Mathias' hair and pulls. "Sh-Shit *'thias*...gods, love...feels so *good,*" He pants out, basically riding Mathias' face, grinding down onto that lovely pressure. "Wish you-wish you would mark me up, *fuck...*"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He shivers at the kisses to his thighs, an area that has always been particularly sensitive for him. Rocking down on the teasi... Now isn't that a thought. But no, he won't be leaving any purposeful marks on the elf tonight. He wants Delton healthy and coherent and he's certain that he would never want that if he were truly aware. He purrs and licks deeper, absorbs the scent of the cleric where he is most pungent. His hand begins to work in quick strokes above him once Delton is hard once again. He pulls back, sucking on each side of his scrotum before directing Delton back and into his mouth. Then his hand replaces where his tongue had been, the soft leather pushing in one digit at first.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Now isn't that a thought. But no, he won't be leaving any purposeful marks on the elf tonight. He wants Delton healthy and coher... Delton whines in protest when Mathias withdraws his tongue, only to be cut off by the new attention to his cock. It takes everything in him not to thrust into the wizard's mouth, gripping onto Mathias' hair tightly. He can't control the slight rocking of his hips, however. He lets out a sob when Mathias pushes the digit inside of him the leather soft but unlike anything he's ever had inside of him. "Mathias, please fuck me-" Tears are running down his cheeks, his words being reduced to barely intelligible moans. If he had any better control of himself, he'd think of the fact that Mathias hasn't gotten off himself and try to even the score. As is, he's just trying to quell the flames.

He pulls off to breathe and reply. “Oh, darling, I can only you give you my fingers and mouth tonight. So let me wring you out as best I can.” He goes back to sucking and lapping at Delton’s cock, taking him to the hilt and swallowing around him as his second finger finds its way in. He is careful, overly cautious most likely. His free hand clutches Delton’s hip and slides over the bone of it to palm and roll a globe of his ass in sync with their movement.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He pulls off to breathe and reply. “Oh, darling, I can only you give you my fingers and mouth tonight. So let me wring you out... Delton can't help his frustrated sob at that. Mentally, he wants closeness and intimacy, he wants Mathias to kiss him as he holds him down. But this isn't about what Delton wants. Not really. This is about burning off a drug as quickly and effectively as possible. He's barely lucid, the fire still curling around his spine. His hips rock gently with Mathias' thrusts, pleasure building at his core and spreading outward. "If you-If you won't fuck me...please get up here and kiss me...*please...*" his last word is a keen, triggered by Mathias finding his prostate. He's pulling up on Mathias' hair, trying to get him to come up and kiss him.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help his frustrated sob at that. Mentally, he wants closeness and intimacy, he wants Mathias to kiss him as he hold... He groans and rumbles around Delton in his mouth as the tugs to his hair send electric shocks down to his own throbbing length. He pulls of reluctantly. "Delton," his voice is wrecked, a raspy gravelly mess. "You deprive me of your taste. You are a cruel elf." He wraps his free arm around Delton's waist and with two fingers still buried in him, he rolls them so he is on top once again and he surges forward to claim those soft lips and his hand starts to pump in and out of Delton's hole, rubbing at his prostate on every withdraw and push back in.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He groans and rumbles around Delton in his mouth as the tugs to his hair send electric shocks down to his own throbbing length. ... Delton can't help the slightly hysterical, completely delighted giggle that he releases when Mathias rolls them over. But he quickly gets what he wanted, Mathias' lips meeting his in a brutal kiss. He licks into Mathias' mouth, tracing the back of the wizard's teeth before nibbling and sucking on his lower lip. The pressure keeps growing as Mathias keeps hammering his prostate, flames licking up his spine and warmth steadily boiling over. Until, that pleasure crests over, Delton’s limbs going tingly and eyes rolling back. The force of his orgasm makes him break the kiss, gasping for air against Mathias' cheek, trying to fill his heaving chest but never seeming to get quite enough. He's much more lucid now. Enough to realize that he's much more soothed, but the drug hasn't burned his way out of his system, not completely. And that Mathias' hasn't gotten off, despite his clear arousal. He reaches down to try and rub Mathias' through his clothes " 'thias, let me, *please,*" he mumbles, sounding absolutely fucked out.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help the slightly hysterical, completely delighted giggle that he releases when Mathias rolls them over. But he q... "So good, such a good boy~ so responsive. You lovely, lovely creature," he murmurs his praise in between kisses to his jaw, his larynx, up behind his ear. He doesn't let up, he continues to push and milk Delton's prostate. Nosing up to the top of Delton's ear, he sucks and nips at it. "Again. Come again." he growls.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "So good, such a good boy~ so responsive. You lovely, lovely creature," he murmurs his praise in between kisses to his jaw, his ... Delton at least tries to get his leg between Mathias' to give him at least a little pleasure. But the mix of overstimulation and Mathias' words - somehow even more effective now that he is lucid enough to understand them - is pushing him to the edge faster than ever before. *"Fu-Fuck, love!" A new wave of tears streaks down his face as the fire keeps building and building, as Mathias' hand keeps thrusting harder and harder. The nips to his ear and the growl almost pushes him over, but it's just slightly out of reach. He turns to Mathias and seeks out his mouth, a clashing of lips and teeth as he tries to push past the overstimulation to give Mathias what he wants.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton at least tries to get his leg between Mathias' to give him at least a little pleasure. But the mix of overstimulation ... He turns his head and gives Delton what he is looking for, sucking on his tongue just to show him what he is missing out on. Then he adds a third finger and pushes against his perineum with his thumb as he massages his prostate. It takes a bit of core strength but he takes the elf's straining cock in his hand once more. "You deserve this, Delton. Good boys deserve fantastic orgasms. Just let go and come one more time."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He turns his head and gives Delton what he is looking for, sucking on his tongue just to show him what he is missing out on. The... > Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He turns his head and gives Delton what he is looking for, sucking on his tongue just to show him what he is missing out on. The... Delton's eyes go wide, barely able to handle all the stimulation together. But what drives him over is Mathias' words, punctuated by hard thrusts of his fingers. His eyes roll back into his head and his entire body tenses. His cock weakly pulses, pushed to its limit after three orgasms in such quick succession. It takes a few moments for him to come back to his body, but he pulls Mathias down for a sweet but sloppy kiss, trying to slot his leg between Mathias' so the wizard can rut against him. He's exhausted, his eyes almost drooping shut. But he wants to make Mathias feel good. For some reason, it feels like he might never get the chance to again.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > > Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (<@!5888943667271434... The dragon instinct almost breaks free in that moment. His hard cock pulsing against Delton's hand. It begs for them to flip Delton, hold him down and shove that cock into him, to wreck him. He snarls without realizing it and ruts against him for a moment, fingers ripped free to hold Delton down by his hips, leaving bruises most likely. STOP. NO. We are better than this! HE is better than THIS! CLAIM. Someone has DRUGGED him, CLAIMED HIM already. WE HAVE TO STOP. He gasps and flies off Delton, across the room in moments. His hands shake as he rips the gloves off, the ones that smell most like the cleric and puts on a new pair over shaking hands. He rushes to the lavatory and pours the pitcher of daily water over his head. All at once, the world stops burning and zeroes into his breathing and Delton's noises of confusion in the other room. If he had a lake nearby, he'd jump in it right now, ice and all.

1

Bee (Tav: Delton)

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> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > The dragon instinct almost breaks free in that moment. His hard cock pulsing against Delton's hand. It begs for them to flip Del... For a moment, something seemed to switch in Mathias. Hr pushed Delton into the mattress, hands holding him hard enough that he knows bruises will show up tomorrow. It wakes him up from his fugue. But, the wizard pulls off of him almost as if he's burned which reminds him of a few important facts. (1) Someone drugged him in his own home. With enough of an aphrodisiac that he couldn't get full lucidity until he had three orgasms. That's powerful stuff. Not available to every shitty person who decides to dose someone's drink. (2) This is entirely fake. Mathias was helping out a friend in need and now seems almost disgusted at it happening. Hopefully, he doesn't lose him completely over this. His heart couldn't take another heartbreak like that. (3) He feels heartbreakingly cold now that Mathias is gone. Like something was torn away from him. He curls into himself and tries not to cry. The drugs may have been slaked, but the excess hormone production is still there. So, when he can't control the tears, he shoves his head into the pillow and tries to sob as quietly as possible.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > For a moment, something seemed to switch in Mathias. Hr pushed Delton into the mattress, hands holding him hard enough that he... After her takes a moment to collect his wits, he changes into some pajamas he rarely wears, takes his gloves off and warms the waffleknit robe he keeps in the lavatory while drawing Delton a bath, and then re-dons his gloves once more. He can hear the crying before he even re-emerges and he walks slowly over to the cleric. "Delton, darling," he asks quietly, hand reaching out to gently touch his shoulder. "Would you like a bath?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > After her takes a moment to collect his wits, he changes into some pajamas he rarely wears, takes his gloves off and warms the w... He tries to subtly wipe his face after he reemerges from the pillow. "Th-Thank you, 'thais. I'd like that," he sniffles slightly. "I'm-I'm sorry you had to do that for me. Y-you couldn't really consent either and you-you probably are a little disgusted by me, which is fair," another sniffle, "I'll try to get out of your hair as soon as possible, so I don't bother you anymore." He just sounds resigned and sad. He rubs his face, but it only serves to irritate inflamed skin, rather than soothe it.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He tries to subtly wipe his face after he reemerges from the pillow. "Th-Thank you, 'thais. I'd like that," he sniffles slight... He is quiet because he is still at war with himself. But Delton’s dismay breaks his heart a bit. He gingerly lifts Delton into his arms and carries him into the bathroom to set him on the side of the tub.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He is quiet because he is still at war with himself. But Delton’s dismay breaks his heart a bit. He gingerly lifts Delton into h... Now that their interactions aren't clouded by the urgency of the drugs, Mathias notices the scars crisscrossing scars that line Delton’s back, likely made from a belt or whip. Plus, the deep scar that goes from his belly button to his bottom rib. There are precision to these marks. Clearly not received in combat.

Delton lets himself be carried and slides into the tub, regardless of the heat coming off of it. "I'm sorry, Mathias. And thank you. You didn't...you didn't have to do that to help me. But, I can understand if you might not want to see me after this. You-you didn't really have a choice either..." He just sits there, in the water, letting the warmth of the water set in. He'll wash himself as some point, but now he's blankly staring at the wall. Gods, I feel like a monster.

He just sighs and sits down on the floor next to the tub. “Delton. It was out of your hands, out of your control. You needed help. I am not cross or upset. I…I apologize for the end. I lost control of myself and needed to take a moment to gather my wits.” He stares at the scars on Delton’s back and has to force himself to look away. There is so much rage boiling inside him again. He directs it as best he can at the sky outside and for once, the magic yields. A storm gathers, wind howling and rain pouring down in sheets. But it matters not. They are inside, warm and safe.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He just sighs and sits down on the floor next to the tub. “Delton. It was out of your hands, out of your control. You needed he... Delton reaches out from the bath and starts stroking Mathias' hair, guiding him to lay his head down against the side of the tub. "You are...you're allowed to be upset. Even if not at me, you...you were forced to do something you didn't want to do. That's traumatic, 'thias." Their encounter starts off in just hazy blips, eventually getting clearer and clearer. Mathias had seemed to be at least...not miserable, but that doesn't mean much. "Th-thank you, beloved. I'm glad it was you who looked after me. I can count on you to keep me safe." He's sitting in warm water and still shivering. The worst of the drugs' effects are over, but he has a feeling that he'd be going through it the next few days.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton reaches out from the bath and starts stroking Mathias' hair, guiding him to lay his head down against the side of the tub... He lets the elf stroke his hair, knowing it will comfort them both. “I am honored you came to me, do not fret about that. I am angry someone drugged you. I am angry that you are hunted like prey. I am not angry at you.” Silence fills the room for a bit. Then he speaks again and it comes out in a rush as if he needs to say it before he talks himself out of it. “You should sleep here from now on. I can setup a second sleeping area. You should take my quarters. You already have the key to the back door so you can come and go as you need.”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He lets the elf stroke his hair, knowing it will comfort them both. “I am honored you came to me, do not fret about that. I am... The steady stroking seems to calm Mathias, a great comfort to Delton as well. "Mathias...I can't take your bed. I'm not going to do that to you. It's very kind of you to offer, but I'm not going to let you suffer for my sake." He rubs the little hollow at the base of Mathias' skull. "I thought...I thought, when you left, that I had lost you forever, Mathias," his voice is raw and vulnerable, "I don't know...I don't know if I could survive that." I already lost Theo. I can't lose you too.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The steady stroking seems to calm Mathias, a great comfort to Delton as well. "Mathias...I can't take your bed. I'm not going ... It is probably because he's so tense and on edge right now, but his purr does not kickstart thankfully. A bittersweet blessing. Delton's nails scratch delightfully against his skull and everything starts to slowly eek away. "It would take far more than that to lose me, Delton. Or something as simple as a banishment. But only if it were from you. I am...your friend. You do not owe me anything." He doesn't mention how close that is to the truth. A simple banishment spell from a Chosen of Ilmater would probably send him away. Well, that and the fact that his instincts have betrayed him and decided it wants to keep the elf.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > It is probably because he's so tense and on edge right now, but his purr does not kickstart thankfully. A bittersweet blessing. ... Delton keeps scratching at Mathias' scalp, especially when the other man starts to lean into the touch. The hesitation on 'friend' makes his heart race. Amazing, really, considering the wizard has just wrung three orgasms from him. He's a romantic at his core. "I adore you, you know? You're...one of the best things to have happened to me, Mathias." He sighs, leaning his head back into the water to wet his hair. "But I'm not going to kick you out of your bed, beloved. That's...not fair."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton keeps scratching at Mathias' scalp, especially when the other man starts to lean into the touch. The hesitation on 'fri... He is ready to nod off when Delton says he adores him. Maybe this "fake dating" thing that writers sometimes speak of really is just a stupid farce. Maybe...there is a chance. No, you stupid fucking moron. You are a dragon. THE dragon everyone is hunting. What the hell are you thinking?! But it is a nice fantasy. A companion to warm his bed, someone to talk to about the ridiculous things mortals write, someone to lavish his love and affection onto. He read once, when he first started this embarassingly late bloomer stage, that dragons often keep a clan of sorts and only greatwyrms lived alone. Mathias was still technically going through mastering his dragon instincts so chances were he was not a greatwyrm yet. "I know, but life is seldom fair, Delton. You should...have somewhere decent to sleep. I have not had many friends in my life so far, but friends sometimes share beds platonically do they not? We could try that if you would like."

DN:His hand stops scratching Mathias' scalp at that. He has platonically shared beds in the past, especially after a massacre. Healers waking each other up in case of emergency or a nightmare. He has not, however, tried to platonically share a bed with someone he's hopelessly in love with before. Ilmater, save me from myself. And save Mathias from me. "I think...I think that should work," he manages, withdrawing his hand to start scrubbing at his hair. It's soaked with sweat, just like the rest of him. I'll smell like Mathias, his traitorous mind supplies. But thinking through their conversation makes him pause. "What do you mean you 'lost control of yourself,' sweetheart?"

> Reply to: @Bee (Tav: Delton) > His hand stops scratching Mathias' scalp at that. He has platonically shared beds in the past, especially after a massacre. He... Sweetheart. Delton's natural habits and kindnesses are a test of his willpower, is what he wants to say. "I meant that...it was improper of me to think of my own release in the midst of your illness. For a moment, I succumbed to the possibility but it would have been...not right. You were under the influence of something mind-altering and I already was manipulating your body without consent to flush it out."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Sweetheart. Delton's natural habits and kindnesses are a test of his willpower, is what he wants to say. "I meant that...it ... He ducks under the water after those words, holding his breath and trying to come up with a response. I was begging you to fuck me. I wanted it so bad. I wanted you to enjoy it so bad. Gods, by the end, I was lucid enough that it wouldve been fine, I think. He's not going to say any of that, however. When the demand for air starts burning his chest, he comes up. "Thank you...for your kindness. I don't know what I did to deserve you." You tricked him, just like Theo. He starts to scrub his skin, getting off the dried come and sweat that paints his skin. "I think...while I don't know for sure, I think all the negative things happening in this town is divine in nature. Not the typical Celestial Pantheon, however. It's tinged with chaos and madness - fey, maybe?" His skin is tinged pink from the heat of the water and his scrubbing, "Right before...I felt it, clear as day. And whoever it is has friends in high places - that wasn't some run of the mill aphrodisiac. It wasn't able to be sated...alone." He had tried. "But there's another type of magic interfering, keeping it bay..." He turns to Mathias, eyes serious, "I think the dragon is trying to help us, Mathias."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He ducks under the water after those words, holding his breath and trying to come up with a response. *I was begging you to fu... He looks at Delton for a long while. "Yes. I think the dragon is trying to help, as well. And everyone deserves kindness

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He looks at Delton for a long while. "Yes. I think the dragon is trying to help, as well. And everyone deserves kindness Delton looks at him, studying. "Mathias, I have a secret and you have to promise me that you won't tell soul until this is all over, okay?" The water is starting to cool, but it feels like the moment to reveal big things.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton looks at him, studying. "Mathias, I have a secret and you have to promise me that you won't tell soul until this is all... His eyes widen and he nods, solemnly. He could offer his own secret in this moment but he is uncertain. "Delton, you have been incredibly kind and understanding. And it has been a harrowing ordeal. Are you sure you want to divulge anymore than you have? Are you certain?"

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His eyes widen and he nods, solemnly. He could offer his own secret in this moment but he is uncertain. "Delton, you have been... Delton reaches out to run through Mathias' hair again. "If I don't tell you now, I might never tell you, love." He sighs, his shoulders drooping even if the movement doesn't stop. "I've been actively sabotaging the church's attempts to find the dragon. They want...they just want to destroy them, with no attempt to find an easier solution. Gods, Mathias, I can't even kill animals and then they want me to harm an actual sentient being. For just existing?" One wet hand drags over his face, "Sweetheart, I've been trying to find them to-to warn them since I've been here. I've found some clues, nothing concrete but...I've been leading the nobles in circles. I almost convinced them that there isn't any evidence of a dragon here, but that fucker Blackfrond keeps fanning the flames." At the last town meeting, Mathias wasn't there to see the bastard imply that Delton is better off a tool and a weapon than a strategist. He's glad. He thinks Mathias might have ripped his head off. "There's something...off about him. He feels like he's...I don't know. He's not like the other nobles who want to wed and bed me. He's too dismissive of me - almost like he thinks he's entitled to me no matter what. It's...more unsettling than anything else."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton reaches out to run through Mathias' hair again. "If I don't tell you now, I might never tell you, love." He sighs, hi... He barks out a laugh, hand clapping over his mouth. There are many emotions warring within him. First, the indignity that Blackfrond would think Delton belonged to him. A lowlife nobody when he last left. Second, that Delton is so so adept. Far too smart for his own good. He has certainly earned his status and title as Chosen. But what breaks him is the random expletive. Delton so rarely curses.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton reaches out to run through Mathias' hair again. "If I don't tell you now, I might never tell you, love." He sighs, hi... "I apologize, it is just...you so rarely curse. It took me by surprise." He offers Delton a lopsided smile. "You belong to no one, only yourself. Blackfrond is a menace and not to be underestimated. We should continue to keep an eye on him. And you...should get dried off and dressed. I have very little that would fit you, but my bathrobe might be a comfort for the evening. It is enchanted to stay warm for now. I will take my leave..." *he says with a groan as he stands, pointedly looking away. "So you can have privacy and I will..make sure the bed is in order."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "I apologize, it is just...you so rarely curse. It took me by surprise." He offers Delton a lopsided smile. "You belong to no ... The smile Delton shoots Mathias is the brightest it's been this evening. He's worried, a bit, at the non-reaction. But he's also not. Because this is Mathias. A man who just offered to give up his bed to make sure Delton is safe. "If anyone deserves to be called a 'fucker,' it's Natan Blackfrond," he says, solemnly. Once Mathias leaves, he gets up from the tub, pulls the drain, and uses a towel to dry himself. He squeezes his hair out as best he can, but accepts that there's little he can do for that. He hopes Mathais doesn't mind too much. For a few moments, he simply runs his hands over the fabric of the robe. It's warm to the touch and unspeakably soft. He shrugs it on, heading into the bedroom.

With the limited time he has, he casts prestidigitation so whatever remaining seed ended up on the bedding is whisked away. He has gathered Delton's clothing and folded it along with the gloves that make him want so much more than he is allowed. When Delton emerges, he is already making space in the wardrobe for the elf and clearing out some of his drawers. He drops the extra items in his chest at the end of the bed. "There. Tomorrow, I will accompany you to the convent and you can gather your things. If you want to, that is.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > With the limited time he has, he casts prestidigitation so whatever remaining seed ended up on the bedding is whisked away. He h... Delton is absolutely swimming in the robe, but it is comfortable. And smells like Mathias. Looking at the bed makes him blush, so he avoids it. He feels rather pathetic, to be honest. If this night doesn't scream 'I don't want you, Delton,' I don't know what does... "I...would. Very much. As long as I'm not putting you out." He chews on his cheek. "Are you...not surprised at all about what I just said in there, love? I...expected at least some reaction, to be honest..." There's a stray string on the sleeve that he can't help playing with. "I didn't tell you only because I was worried...worried that you would try to dissuade me. From trying to find them. And warn them."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton is absolutely swimming in the robe, but it is comfortable. And smells like Mathias. Looking at the bed makes him blush,... He doesn't say anything but he does sigh and come over to lift Delton up in his arms in a bridal carry and physically put him into bed. Then he pours Delton a tumbler of water for himself and Delton from the same pitcher so Delton can see it is not spiked. He downs his and puts it off to the side out of the way and walks around to the other side of the bed. He slides in and lies there for a moment on his side staring at the elf. Then he opens his arms.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He doesn't say anything but he does sigh and come over to lift Delton up in his arms in a bridal carry and physically put him in... The squeak Delton releases when Mathias just picks him up is a little undignified for the Chosen of Ilmater. He clutches onto Mathias for balance before he's tucked in. But, he takes the water gratefully, downing it. It'll probably help flush his system, after all. He blinks at Mathias opening his arms for them to...cuddle, he supposes. He really shouldn't. It's disingenuous to let Mathias hold him platonically when he's not aware of Delton’s feelings for him. However, he's not a strong enough man to decline the offer. He easily slides over to Mathias and wraps his arm around the wizard’s torso, resting his head over Mathias' heart. Gods, this will hurt when it ends.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The squeak Delton releases when Mathias just picks him up is a little undignified for the Chosen of Ilmater. He clutches onto Ma... He pulls Delton in close, wrapping both arms around the elf. Finally, *finally*, the dragon calms down. Settles. He presses his nose to Delton's hair. "I am not...unfazed by your admission. It is not unusual for the followers of Ilmater to wish no harm upon beasts. To know you have been sabotaging their efforts is quite interesting. I would like to know more about that if you would tell me, but I have known many in my life who have harbored far more surprising secrets. And to know that Blackfrond is fanning the flames comes as no surprise to me either. I do not attend the town meetings, I do not need to. The madame and her brood fill me in on both the happenings and the backstage dealings that occur to influence those events." "Delton, I am sorry you were sent here and are in the crosshairs now. I hope you know I will do everything I can to protect you."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He pulls Delton in close, wrapping both arms around the elf. Finally, *finally*, the dragon calms down. Settles. He presses his ... Delton just hugs Mathias tighter, unable to keep himself from tangling their legs together. He's a weak man, after all. At least for Mathias. "Oh you know, disputing reports - being a ranger is useful, after all, finding reasonable explanations that don't involve dragons, pointing to the fact that legends are often made up by the superstitious when the tales are more anecdotal than anything. I know they're here. But I don't know where." He sighs and buries his face in Mathias' neck for a second, breathing him in. "I don't want you to put yourself in the line of fire for me, Mathias. I...care deeply for you. I dread seeing you hurt in any way."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton just hugs Mathias tighter, unable to keep himself from tangling their legs together. He's a weak man, after all. At lea... He chuckles. "I may be a librarian but I can be quite crafty if I need to, little cleric. Protect yourself as much as you can. Blackfrond is my number one suspect for drugging you. I do not have any evidence of course, but my gut instinct is certain he is the culprit."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He chuckles. "I may be a librarian but I can be quite crafty if I need to, little cleric. Protect yourself as much as you can. ... Little cleric. Mathias is going to kill him. He shudders at the term before responding, "I have a gut feeling he's behind it. But I don't know who he's working with at the convent. It was certainly there where I was drugged and he...wasn't." He can feel Mathias' heartbeat like this, steady and strong. He wants to keep it that way. "I'm not saying you can't take care of yourself. But I'd rather you hale and whole, love. I...don't want to lose you."

He cannot help but look like the cat who got the cream when Delton shudders. Is he teasing? Maybe a little. Thankfully he is too worried, on guard to have an erection so everything is tucked away safely. "I...cannot promise you that. I am sorry, Delton, but time stops for no one. Not even me. What I can promise you is that your efforts are not in vain and I will do what I can to make sure they stay that way."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He cannot help but look like the cat who got the cream when Delton shudders. Is he teasing? Maybe a little. Thankfully he is too... "Just...no unnecessary risks, okay? I know it probably seems like I can't take care of myself, after tonight, but I don't want you to throw yourself on the pyre for me." He wishes he could freeze this moment, stay here where his face is buried in Mathias' throat and lulled by his heartbeat. I love you. I love you. I love you. He doesn't say that, doesn't have the strength to. "We'll figure it out. Together."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "Just...no unnecessary risks, okay? I know it probably seems like I can't take care of myself, after tonight, but I don't want y... He hums and strokes Delton's back. Mathias has read many books and had very few friends in his life. He's certain this is not what friends typically do.

The next day, the librarian and cleric orbit each other like two moons with a centered planar body—careful and cautious. Mathias opens the library like usual, to no surprises thankfully. He refreshes Delton's clothes so he doesn't return to the convent looking...debauched. The gloves have disappeared but he's still quite tired so its possible that he misplaced them.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "Just...no unnecessary risks, okay? I know it probably seems like I can't take care of myself, after tonight, but I don't want y... “Delton? Have you heard from Quothe?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Delton? Have you heard from Quothe?” The redhead hums in confusion, "No, not yet. Why?" He's used to Quothe coming and going. And he'd know if his familiar was hurt. He'd be able to feel it.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The redhead hums in confusion, "No, not yet. Why?" He's used to Quothe coming and going. And he'd know if his familiar was hu... “Hmmm. I thought he would come and check in on you. Let us know what he might have found?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Hmmm. I thought he would come and check in on you. Let us know what he might have found?” Delton stands and murmurs a spell, the feeling of forest wind on his face. A disheveled Quothe appears and immediately flies into his arms.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Hmmm. I thought he would come and check in on you. Let us know what he might have found?” Quothe's feathers are all askew and his normally pristine feathers have been stained by dirt, but he looks healthy. If he had hands, he would be cradling his charge's face. Instead, he flits around after a quick hug, using his wings to brush Delton off. ||"Delton, my chick, you are alright! I was so worried. But I needed to try and get any information possible. And, unfortunately, it is not much. But Blackfrond's bird remains suspicious. I tried to follow, but lost him in the woods near the mountains. Near that cave I told you about?"|| He turns to Mathias, eyes searching, ||"Thank you, Master Elemmirë, for taking care of him."||

“I…I do not understand him. I know you are talking to me but I do not understand, Quothe.”

Delton raises his eyebrows, "He says thank you...and that he lost Blackfrond's bird near a warded cave in the forest we found not too long ago..." Quothe firmly believes that the cave is related to Mathias, though Delton is not so sure. He believes Quothe is a little...prejudiced toward the librarian.

It takes every fiber of his being to not twitch a muscle or make a noise. “Hmmm. Did you see anything that would make that cave…suspicious? Other than the warning of course?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > It takes every fiber of his being to not twitch a muscle or make a noise. “Hmmm. Did you see anything that would make that cav... Quothe tilts his head to the side, ||"It's powerful magic. Chaotic and wild, but not like the plague. It fits in with other creatures of this world."|| When Delton relays that to his satisfaction, he says, ||"It's not malicious. Just...protected."|| He returns to Delton’s shoulder as the elf relays that part as well.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > It takes every fiber of his being to not twitch a muscle or make a noise. “Hmmm. Did you see anything that would make that cav... Delton dutifully relays Quothe's message, turning to look at Mathias. He seems...too still. "Are you alright, sweetheart?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton dutifully relays Quothe's message, turning to look at Mathias. He seems...too still. "Are you alright, sweetheart?" “Oh? Yes, just thinking.” Thinking about how my cover is nearly blown. Thinking about how I’m about to go into rut. Fucking hells. Thinking about how I will either have to leave you your steal you away.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Oh? Yes, just thinking.” Thinking about how my cover is nearly blown. Thinking about how I’m about to go into rut. Fucking hel... Nodding slowly, he chews on his cheek. He's not sure why, but he doesn't quite believe him. "You know you can tell me anything love, right?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Nodding slowly, he chews on his cheek. He's not sure why, but he doesn't quite believe him. "You know you can tell me anythi... He looks up at Delton when he hears the hesitation in his voice. “Yes! Of course.” He smiles warmly.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He looks up at Delton when he hears the hesitation in his voice. “Yes! Of course.” He smiles warmly. Delton can't help but reach out and wipe an invisible smudge off of Mathias' face, just to get the skin-to-skin contact he so desperately craves. But he frowns at the heat radiating off of Mathias. He immediately leans up to put his cool hand on Mathias' forehead. "Love, you feel awfully warm. Are you sure you're alright?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help but reach out and wipe an invisible smudge off of Mathias' face, just to get the skin-to-skin contact he so de... He stops and thinks again. He’s having to do that more often and maybe it’s just because everything is becoming far more strategic. Maybe it’s because of the godsdamned rut. “I feel fine. Maybe I should take a walk, clear my head. Actually, is it not time for your classes?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He stops and thinks again. He’s having to do that more often and maybe it’s just because everything is becoming far more strateg... He chews on his cheek even harder. "If you're sure, darling..." He looks at the timepiece and sighs. He doesn't necessarily trust Mathias when he says he's fine. He trusts Mathias with his life. Not necessarily Mathias' own. "Yes, I suppose it is. Back to the convent with me, I guess."

1

Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)

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> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He chews on his cheek even harder. "If you're sure, darling..." He looks at the timepiece and sighs. He doesn't necessarily tru... He stops and goes to Delton, petting his bicep. “I could stay if you like? You could move your classes here if you would prefer?”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He stops and goes to Delton, petting his bicep. “I could stay if you like? You could move your classes here if you would prefer?... Not going back is so tempting... He sighs and shakes his head, "As much as that sounds appealing, moving both the healing supplies and the healers doesn't seem to be the smartest decision." Exhaustion tinges his features as he rubs his face, "I also need to be able to face these people and act like nothing is wrong. I worry-I worry they just wanted me to cause a scene to discredit me...I don't want to have to abandon work unfinished." He reaches up and squeezes the hand petting his bicep, "I don't want to have to leave this town or you, frankly. So it's best to keep classes there."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Not going back is so tempting... He sighs and shakes his head, "As much as that sounds appealing, moving both the healing sup... "Very wise of you, Delton. I would expect nothing less. Given that you...want things to appear normal, are there any events coming up that would help solidify your health and good spirits. Anything a 'fake dating' scenario would help?" He manages to keep from sounding like he's excited to pretend some more by focusing on just wanting to be helpful.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Very wise of you, Delton. I would expect nothing less. Given that you...want things to appear normal, are there any events comi... Delton smiles, humming slightly. "A couple of the higher-ranked clerics want to meet at the tavern for drinks and to discuss the Temple's progress. Spouses and partners are invited, so it's probably more of an excuse to get drunk together than anything else." He runs his free hand through his hair. It's just not cooperating today, "You can come as my date, if it wouldn't be a bother, love."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton smiles, humming slightly. "A couple of the higher-ranked clerics want to meet at the tavern for drinks and to discuss t... He smiles fondly, taking Delton's hands in his own. "Your hair is lovely as always, Delton. Stop fretting. And, yes, we can go after you are finished teaching. It is close to Wintershield now so the students are home and out of the snow so the library need not stay open late." Thank Bahamut's nostrils for that. He already has to navigate this rut, having to do so with the children lingering would not be ideal.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He smiles fondly, taking Delton's hands in his own. "Your hair is lovely as always, Delton. Stop fretting. And, yes, we can go ... His heart clenches at that. How am I ever supposed to let you go? He squeezes their hands together, "It's a date, sweetheart. But I really must head out, before I'm late to my own class." He liked teaching thr novices. They cared a lot, even if their enthusiasm sometimes replaced common sense. "I'm just a Sending spell away, after all."

"Yes, Mr. Nailo. I am at your service." Once they are all bundled up, he opens the door for Delton and locks it behind him. He offers his arm, escorting the cleric and his familiar down the street to the convent, nodding at passersby who don't sneer or look away from him. "Alright, I will be back here in a few hours for our walk to the tavern. Send Quothe or a Sending or whatever means you need if I must hasten back here sooner." The back of his shirt is soaked and he can feel his horns itching to burst forth, a snarl trying to crawl up his throat.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Yes, Mr. Nailo. I am at your service." Once they are all bundled up, he opens the door for Delton and locks it behind him. He... On the way to the convent, Delton can't help but keep sending concerned glances Mathias' way. He seems...off. When they reach the convent doors, he turns and squeezes Mathias' arm, "Thank you, Mr. Elemmirë. I'll see you soon." He leans up and presses a kiss to the wizard’s cheek, still finding it far too warm. "Please send for me if you start feeling worse, love. You don't have to put on a brave face for me."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > On the way to the convent, Delton can't help but keep sending concerned glances Mathias' way. He seems...off. When they reach t... He smiles, his cheek immediately buzzing and scales threatening to emerge. He says nothing but watches until Delton is safe inside. And then he all but speed walks back home with a half-hard cock, going through the back kitchen door and slamming it shut behind him, locking it. He makes sure the kitchen window is shut and locked as well and then locks himself in his—well, their—bedroom.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He smiles, his cheek immediately buzzing and scales threatening to emerge. He says nothing but watches until Delton is safe ins... For the record, Delton Naïlo loves his job and he's fairly good at it. However, he's still only mortal. And, sometimes, he loses control of his class. Somehow, their normal conversation on contraceptives and reproductive health got a little...derailed. One second, they were talking about the potential drawbacks of magical contraceptives - specifically, the lack of long-term studies on them - and then all of a sudden Delton was talking about sex toys. He doesn't know who asked the, to be fair, relevant question about them - specifically regarding what to tell patients who ask what to avoid - but that doesn't really matter. It doesn't matter that Delton is explaining to a bunch of baby-faced healers the importance of flared bases, which is undoubtedly unsexy. Unfortunately, his mind is firmly embedded in the gutter. He was dosed with an aphrodisiac the night before and had the man he's in love with take care of it and cuddle him all night. Yet, somehow, they're still not really together. So, once could say that Delton is...frustrated. before he can let the class get into a spirited discussion, he decides to let them out early with the excuse that he's still recovering from a bout of illness. When the last student exits, their well wishes for his well-being ringing in the classroom, he quickly packa up and heads up to his now barren room.

The moment he is in his room, he is damn near shredding his clothing to get it off. His gloves are on the floor, everything in piles and he is pulling at his hair as his horns appear and his tail thwacks aggressively at the floor. His eyes narrow, looking for the bed robe that Delton wore to sleep in last night. He finds it hanging in the bathroom of course and wraps it around a pillow in the center of the floor, burying his nose in it at first. His cock has fully emerged from its slit and bobs, leaking on the floor already.

Delton immediately starts stripping, haphazardly throwing his things on the floor. However, he stops and ruffles through his pockets to grab a pair of pilfered gloves. The ones from last night. He feels like a fucking pervert, but he also can't help but tug them on. At least now he can pretend its Mathias' hands that are tending to him. He didn't take everything to Mathias' - both for space and the fact that he's sharing a bed with the man now. He's not going to bring some of his more...intimate collection. He takes out the lube from his nightstand, pausing and also grabbing the seldom-used dildo. Gods, he wants Mathias to fuck him. He's leaking just thinking about it.

His hips are already moving, instinctively thrusting as he snarls and salivates and sniffs the robe that smells like them both like a *fucking dog*. On some higher level, Mathias hates this part of himself. Reduced to baser instincts, out of control. No better than any animal looking to breed and claim. But for now he needs to take the edge off before he literally bursts into flames. He leans up and takes himself in hand, snarling on the end of a groan as he brings himself to completion quickly and efficiently once. And then his knot start to inflate. He whines and falls forward, shoving the pillow down against his groin to rut against, his hand loose around his member. He starts to imagine what it would be like to succumb completely.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His hips are already moving, instinctively thrusting as he snarls and salivates and sniffs the robe that smells like them both l... Delton shoves his face into the pillow to not make any noise. He slowly starts stroking himself, the leather dragging pleasantly against his cock. He covers his fingers with lube and slowly inserts a finger inside himself to the knuckle. Pausing for a few moments, he pulls his finger out and thrusts it back in, harshly. Still slightly stretched from the night prior, he quickly adds a second, relishing the pleasant sting. He quickly gets into the rhythm of thrusting in and out, scissoring his fingers to stretch himself even more. The gloves make him feel like Mathias is the one stretching him, whispering about him being good and how he'd take care of his little cleric. It makes him start stroking himself faster. The fabric between his teeth is the only reason he's not being ridiculously loud, imagining Mathias preparing him, holding him down and getting him ready to take the wizard's cock. His cock is leaking profusely, his thumb rubbing along the sensitive head.

He imagines how Delton's smooth skin felt under his hands. He remembers the way scars criss-crossed his back and for a moment he starts to snarl, but he shakes his head. A question for another time. Lithe and small, he remembers how his fingers felt in his hole but the noises he made—fuck, the noises that Delton made make him want to burrow into the elf's arms and keep him stuck on his knot for the rest of forever. His whimpers echo in his mind as he thinks about prepping the elf once more and then pushing in with his own cock, ridge by ridge. He uses his slick and wet claw to provide the friction of sinking into the cleric. The groans, rumbling as he bends his head to the floor and his horns rub against the surface. Delton crying to be fucked will haunt his memory for the rest of his life. And suddenly the lifespan of a dragon seems like an even weightier burden than before. He fucks into the pillow, growing slicker and slicker from his own spend as it leaks against the silk pillowcase. He clutches the pillow in both claws, a farce for what he imagines wrapping them around Delton's waist would feel like.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He imagines how Delton's smooth skin felt under his hands. He remembers the way scars criss-crossed his back and for a moment he... His hand flies to his pendant on the nightstand - the only thing he had carefully stripped off in his haste - casting Silence through it so he doesn't have to worry about concentration. He feels a little guilty for using his God's symbol - one attached to his wedding ring at that - for this purpose. But, if Theo were here, he'd want Delton to be happy. And it's not like Ilmater demands abstinence from him. Now, that no one can hear him - his vocal cords moving but making no sound - he starts aggressively thrusting his fingers into himself. If he could be heard, the moans he releases would make a cortesan blush. He slips in another finger, stretching perfunctorily before withdrawing and reaching for the dildo. A thorough dousing of lube followed by a teasing pressure at his entrance. Mathias feels like a tease, after all. Slowly, he presses in, imaging Mathias lying over him, praising him between nips to his neck, holding him in place so he has to just take it.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > His hand flies to his pendant on the nightstand - the only thing he had carefully stripped off in his haste - casting Silence ... The pillow and his legs provide an almost pseudo-channel for him to fuck into and he builds up to a pace that would be punishing. His knees are angry but he ignores it in favor of fucking this illusion of his cleric. His knot starts to inflate and he snarls, remembering how Delton had screamed in pleasure the night before. He pushes down on the part of the pillow still wrapped in the bedrobe that smells of them both, as if holding Delton down by the back of his neck, and wraps his claw around the base of himself where his knot is. "Fuck, fuck, yes, Gods, fucking hells," the librarian chants and he shouts as his knot pops fully between his fist, an almost strangled hold around himself as spurt after spurt pools against the pillowcase. He squeezes and massages it, a moan each time he squeezes his first down like Delton did in the throws of an orgasm wrenched from him. He works furiously to milk his knot, desperate to take the edge of this fantasy off, squeezing and pulling in time to the remembered mewls. Then he slumps over next to the pillow, turning over on his back, panting. Fuck. This rut is going to be such a problem.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > The pillow and his legs provide an almost pseudo-channel for him to fuck into and he builds up to a pace that would be punishing... Slowly, he eases the dildo into himself, only stopping when the stretch gets a little uncomfortable before starting again. Soon, the toy is completely inside of him, at which point he stops and runs a hand through his disheveled hair. Then, he starts to pull the toy out and thrust back in, slowly increasing the amount of the toy he pulls out at once. His strikes are hard, punishing even, but he stops stroking his cock instead to play with a nipple. In his head, he can hear Mathias' voice growling out, 'You'll come on my cock, little cleric, like a good boy?' The other man would probably never say that to him, didn't seem particularly interested in actually sleeping with him, but that thought makes heat start to coil in his belly. His mouth opens in a silent cry when he grazes his prostate and he immediately changes his angle to hammer into that spot every time. He's free to moan his head off, so he's intent on wringing out a satisfying orgasm. Twisting his nipple between his fingers, he imagines Mathias biting and sucking on them, bringing him ever closer to the edge. He grinds the toy against his prostate, not letting up when Mathias' words from last night come back to him. Good boys deserve fantastic orgasms. Just let go and come... So he does, his climax causing him to silently scream and bury his head in the pillows. He fucks himself through it, stopping when he realizes he's not in the mood to overstimulate himself into another orgasm. He only wants Mathias to do that to him, now. Cursing himself for letting himself get this in deep, he sighs and thinks how he's supposed to survive sleeping next to Mathias every night.

Soon enough, after both parties have sufficiently made themselves presentable once more, the wizard is once again waiting at the foot of the stairs for the Chosen of Ilmater. He looks like he could do with a long nap and his hair a bit disheveled. But otherwise, his outward appearance is as to be expected. Inside however...the dragon paces restlessly.

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Soon enough, after both parties have sufficiently made themselves presentable once more, the wizard is once again waiting at the... Delton had bathed before heading to see Mathias, hair magically dried. When he exits the convent, he creases his eyebrows in concern. " 'thias, you look tired. Are you sure you want to come out with me? I can go alone, if that would be better?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton had bathed before heading to see Mathias, hair magically dried. When he exits the convent, he creases his eyebrows in c... "No." he says rather quickly. He clears his throat. "I, uh, meant to say no, I would rather accompany you. If you would still enjoy my company."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "No." he says rather quickly. He clears his throat. "I, uh, meant to say no, I would rather accompany you. If you would sti... His eyebrows remain creased but Delton slowly nods. "I always want you around, Mathias. I'm just worried that you're pushing yourself too much..." He reaches out with his hand so Mathias can hold it.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > His eyebrows remain creased but Delton slowly nods. "I always want you around, Mathias. I'm just worried that you're pushing y... He immediately takes it and feels immense relief flood his body. It's dulled and he knows it would be a be far more powerful if he didn't have the gloves on. He smiles, "Do not fret, Delton. I am starved; let us go and see your brethren. I am looking forward to our meal."

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He immediately takes it and feels immense relief flood his body. It's dulled and he knows it would be a be far more powerful if ... Delton leads them to the tavern, idly and gently swinging their arms between them as they walk. He hums quietly as they walk the short distance to the tavern, before sliding into seats at the end of the long table the clerics will use. Honestly, he wants to get this over with as soon as possible.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton leads them to the tavern, idly and gently swinging their arms between them as they walk. He hums quietly as they walk th... He pays for their orders, a mead and bowl of stew for himself which he wolfs down immediately and orders a second to bring back with him to the table. He sits next to Delton, the picture of someone who once dined with royalty with how he holds himself.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He pays for their orders, a mead and bowl of stew for himself which he wolfs down immediately and orders a second to bring back ... Delton tries to pay for himself, but Mathias insists on paying for him. He rolls his eyes fondly and decides to slip money into the other man's belongings later. His own mead and stew are not so quickly devoured and he tilts his head, a little bemused. "You weren't kidding when you said you were starving," he notes. He chews on his cheek. Mathias is acting odd. He's worried. "How did you spend your time alone? Did you enjoy the peace and quiet?" His voice is a little joking, but he knows he can be a lot. So he is a little concerned. Okay, a lot.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton tries to pay for himself, but Mathias insists on paying for him. He rolls his eyes fondly and decides to slip money into ... Oh. He stops with the spoon halfway to his mouth and settles it back into the bowl, wiping his mouth. "I...suppose so? I—" he almost says he missed Delton, but decides against it, "shelved some books, tidied up, worried about you." A half-truth. He did worry about Delton, so not totally dishonest. And he did have to tidy up after he fucked that pillow.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Oh. He stops with the spoon halfway to his mouth and settles it back into the bowl, wiping his mouth. "I...suppose so? I—" he ... "Oh, love, you don't need to worry about me. I don't want you to stress..." He never wants to burden anyone. Reaching out to smooth the crease between Mathias' brows, he's shocked to feel that Mathias feels even hotter. "Sweetheart, you're burning up! You said you were fine..." He can't help but sound disappointed and sad. He hoped that Mathias could trust him.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "Oh, love, you don't need to worry about me. I don't want you to stress..." He never wants to burden anyone. Reaching out to sm... He blinks, the room swimming a bit. “Am I?” he replies, stupidly. Of course he is. He knows he is. But he’s trying to keep it under wraps. He looks around as the other clerics assemble, their partners tottering and tittering about. He looks back to Delton and says, “We are sitting and this is important to you, so I will rest here quietly while you do what you need to, Delton. We can leave when you feel you are finished. Do not fret, even if I am ill, I would still need to eat so at least my appetite is healthy.”

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He blinks, the room swimming a bit. “Am I?” he replies, stupidly. Of course he is. He knows he is. But he’s trying to keep it... Delton shakes his head firmly. "We'll go when you finish eating. My first job is always being a healer and it won't do to let you get sicker out here. Much less get others sick." He waves the barmaid over and asks for a towel and some water. That should help keep Mathias' fever down before he does a thorough exam. It's not his habit to make patients the center of attention. Instead, he quietly casts Create Water on the towel and cools it with a *Frostbite*. "Put this around your neck and make sure you drink the water. I'll let the Mother of the House know." She'll be pissed, but his mind is set. No love lost. He's inclined to believe she's in Blackfrond's pocket - she's too keen for them to get together. He wouldn't be surprised if she's the one who dosed him.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton shakes his head firmly. "We'll go when you finish eating. My first job is always being a healer and it won't do to let ... He sighs, knowing it won't do much for him to put up a further fuss. His mind is already trying to find a way to get to the cave. Unfortunately, they've already discovered the cave so the best he can do is rest there for a day or so and then fly off for a week or so to his last spot, hidden inside of a volcano not terribly far...but far enough that his presence would worry Delton. He accepts the frozen, wet towel and applies it to his neck. It raises goosebumps along his skin and he can feel the scales start to emerge along his spine.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He sighs, knowing it won't do much for him to put up a further fuss. His mind is already trying to find a way to get to the cave... He goes to the House Mother and, like he expected, she's unhappy. But she's decidedly not his superior and it was just a courtesy, anyway. As soon as Mathias finishes eating, he ushers the other man out, his own food unfinished due to his worry. "I really wish you wouldn't try to hide being I'll from me. It just makes me worry more, 'thias."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He goes to the House Mother and, like he expected, she's unhappy. But she's decidedly not his superior and it was just a courtes... "Delton, I—" His skin prickles and his vision swims as he steps through the kitchen door. And then he his dragonsight flares and he can see how someone tried to break in recently. "Someone tried to—" And then he's heaving into the sink as his breath pouch inflates and his stomach cramps. He clutches the sink desperately because he hates when this happens. Cracks form where he clutches the sink but he cannot be bothered to notice that.

> Reply to: @Mathias Elemmírë (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > "Delton, I—" His skin prickles and his vision swims as he steps through the kitchen door. And then he his dragonsight flares a... Immediately, he starts rubbing Mathias' back as he heaves, not noticing the cracks. He's too blinded by worry for that. He reaches down to grab stuff from his bag, but his hand travels uselessly through air. "*Fuck!*" He must've forgotten his healer's kit in his haste to leave. "Stay here, love. I'll be back to take care of you - I forgot my pack." He literally runs out, door slamming behind him. It's a ten minute walk and he can make it in seven if he runs. After a few minutes, he realizes Quothe can be of use, so he summons him. "I need you to look after Mathias until I'm back - he's sick!" He doesn't pause his run and his familiar, hearing his tone, immediately flies back toward the library.

He has exactly 1 minute before that infernal bird is looking for him so he rips off his gloves and stumbles into the bedroom. He belches fire into the chest, burning most of what is in there of his research and then is transforming and cannot stop it any longer. He pulls his clothing off and just snaps his finger, the clothing disappearing off him and into the wardrobe just in time for his wings to break free and flap about. He cries out in pain as feathery spines rip free from his back along where the scales run and then he's reduced to crystalline obsidian, his body shifting. His neck, tail, and body lengthens. The transformation takes less than ten seconds and he ends up smashing through the back wall behind his bed. Next the roof is collapsing and he roars as he reaches full size.

One moment, its a normal evening. But everything changes when the wind starts to whip about and fires nearby all blaze up when a thunderous roar shakes the buildings, the ground, and the very air. All nearby glass becomes dark, tinted. A huge black dragon, clearly an adult with scales almost mirror-like, flies over head and villagers walking through the cobblestone and dirt streets scream in terror, fleeing into alleyways and homes. It flies off in the direction of the setting sun, leaving behind broken walls of the librarian's quarters. The library remains curiously sturdy and whole.

Delton is just coming out of the tavern when the dragon flies overhead, and he's torn for a moment, before readying himself to run back to the library. But the frantic arrival of his familiar stops him.

The raven is panicked, his flapping a frantic almost-blur. ||"Delton, Mathias is gone! Is quarters are absolutely destroyed and there's no sight of him.|| He's shrieking, almost. He hates to admit it, but he's gotten quite fond of the librarian. He saw the love and rage in his eyes' last night at Delton's plight.

He wants to scream. in rage, in horror, in more emotions than he can name. For a second, the very air shimmers around him, the power of a god at his fingertips. He doesn't know who's behind it, but he knows he needs help to get Mathias back. Time to track a dragon.

At first he tracks west, just to keep people off his tail. Night has fallen so it makes a bit easier to camouflage since his form is black...mostly. He is somewhat reflective and that makes being purely invisible difficult. He thinks himself clever for waiting until far beyond the forest to cast invisibility on himself, thanks to his psionics. Then he makes his way to his cave. He doesn't wait until he touches down to enter the cave, instead opting to Psychic Step into the cave to leave no prints, as little trace at possible.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > At first he tracks west, just to keep people off his tail. Night has fallen so it makes a bit easier to camouflage since his for... Delton doesn't have a lot of clues, but he does have the cave Quothe saw that other raven loitering by. He doesn't have time to run back and thoroughly prepare for the trek. Instead, he straps the two knives he uses for herb collection to his thighs and casts Sanctuary through his pendant. A small prayer to Ilmater and he's off. He spent his most formative years as a ranger. Stealth and tracking come easy. It only takes him a few hours to make it to the cave, Quothe flying above to watch for any obstacles - living or otherwise. But, at the mouth of the cave, he hesitates, not wanting to disturb a dragon's lair. That isn't really friendly, after all.

He slams inside, crashing and sliding into the wall immediately with a yelp. He lies there for a moment before finally standing and padding over around the corner and deeper into the cave. He winds his way down into the structure until he is near the middle of the cave, a small hoard of books, cooking supplies, and shiny rocks sit on a bookshelf-esque structure carved from the wall. There is also a small chest and a rather large firepit. But the majority of hollowed out space is filled with feathers and furs atop a hollowed out mound of hay and vines. He spits fire into the firepit to keep the chill at bay and sinks into the nest with a grumbling sigh. He forces himself to sleep instead of thinking of Delton and the danger he might be in. He cannot do much now at this moment anyways. He is stuck in this shape.

A few hours have passed and the cleric picks his way toward the cave. The rocks here sparkle a little bit differently than usual as if their chemical makeup is changing into quartz. From the outside, the cave appears small and empty. But inside, past the ward, there is a cluster of darkened quartz that grow out of a crack in the wall. There are tales of some dragons using features of the local environment for their dragonsight.

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > A few hours have passed and the cleric picks his way toward the cave. The rocks here sparkle a little bit differently than usual... He's not going to risk offending the dragon. He needs their help. His heart clenches at the thought that Mathias is in danger and he's standing here, indecisive. I can't lose another love. Not like this. His eyes widen and he remembers that he has to be familiar with the creature, not the other way around. So a Sending spell it is. 'My name is Delton. I'm outside your cave. I need your help. My friend is missing and in danger. Have already been attacked before.' He prays to Ilmater that this works.

His eyes snap open and he starts purring as Delton's message pings around in his head. He's so tired but the fact that Delton is outside is a nonstarter. He cannot be out there alone. And dragonsight proves, sure enough, Delton Nailo squatting in the bushes, camouflaged despite his blazing red hair. Clever little cleric. He sighs and ambles out of his nest, moving through the winding passage ways. He lies down at the wall end of the cave—the end of it before one must take a sharp right and definitely not the false one in the illusion— and whispers. > Beguiling Whisper. > The dragon telepathically whispers to one creature within range of the dragon's telepathy. A creature charmed in this way obeys to the best of its ability any command the dragon issues that isn't directly harmful to the creature. But it not a whisper meant for Delton. It is meant for Quothe. Stand guard, please. Tell your charge they may enter. You must remain outside.

-# @Bee (Tav: Delton)

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His eyes snap open and he starts purring as Delton's message pings around in his head. He's so tired but the fact that Delton is... Quothe's beady eyes dilate, swooping to be next to his charge. ||"The dragon says you can come, but I must stay outside."|| He doesn't have the capacity to question the order. To even really think of the implications of it. He just obeys.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His eyes snap open and he starts purring as Delton's message pings around in his head. He's so tired but the fact that Delton is... Delton's eyes widen at Quothe's words, seeing his familiar's eyes blown. He's being charmed, his mind supplies. But he doesn't have time to question it. It makes him uneasy - how did the dragon know Quothe was with him? It doesn't matter. Mathias needs us. He braces himself and heads inside.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton's eyes widen at Quothe's words, seeing his familiar's eyes blown. He's being charmed, his mind supplies. But he does... He watches from the back of the cave as Quothe flies back to the top of the nearby birch and Delton walks inside the cave tentatively. Once he reaches the back of the illusory wall, he makes to run his hand over it and the dragon can't help but smile, watching as Delton figures it out.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He watches from the back of the cave as Quothe flies back to the top of the nearby birch and Delton walks inside the cave tentat... Now that he doesn't feel like he's intruding on the dragon's space, he focuses and his Truesight comes into play. The cave appears to be a dead end, even feels like one. But it's not. The wall is an illusion. A powerful, almost-corporeal one. But an illusion nonetheless. With a deep breath, he steps through the wall and sees the dragon studying him. His breath catches in his throat at the sheer power, enormity, and beauty of the creature.

His twin-tails wag of their own accord and his purr vibrates the room. He is always pleased with how clever his little cleric is. His amber eyes glow and he feels nothing but pride. Misplaced, but pride nonetheless. Delton doesn't know its him right now. He also doesn't belong to him in any formal capacity. But the dragon in him won't be convinced otherwise.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His twin-tails wag of their own accord and his purr vibrates the room. He is always pleased with how clever his little cleric is... After a few deep breaths and some agonizing moments, Delton steps forward and bows his head in respect. "Hello, saer dragon. My name is Delton Naïlo, the Holy Ranger of Ilmater. I come seeking your aid." He dares to raise his eyes to meet the dragon's. "My friend has disappeared and is likely in danger. There are things afoot in the village, chaotic, fey magic sapping the life from local creatures. I was already poisoned, though I was able to recover." "I recognize that your magic is keeping the fey magic mitigated as much as possible. I humbly ask for your help to save my friend and this village." He pauses, "I will not deny the danger. The local nobles have a vendetta against you. But I will use the full force of my power as Chosen to protect you, should you decide to aid me." Bowing his head again, he waits for a response.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > After a few deep breaths and some agonizing moments, Delton steps forward and bows his head in respect. "Hello, saer dragon. M... He is exhausted. The physical will he exerted to just stay human was draining. He reaches a claw out and tilts Delton's head up. His purring has settled down a little so he can at least hear the cleric heartbeat and its comforting sound. He really just wants to curl up around the cleric in his nest and sleep. He takes a claw and scratches on the soft surface a stick person with a checkmark. Then a few houses with a sun next to them. He connects them both with a circle and draws a question mark. His unspoken question: how can I help you?

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He is exhausted. The physical will he exerted to just stay human was draining. He reaches a claw out and tilts Delton's head up.... He's done a lot of research on dragons. He knows they can communicate verbally and psionically. So he's a little confused as to why this dragon won't speak to him. They clearly can, considering they already talked to Quothe. It makes him tilt his head in confusion, but he focuses on the task at hand. Honestly, Delton doesn't know exactly what the dragon can do to help. He just needs allies, people to help him track down Mathias and whoever took him. As much as it pains him to admit it, he's completely clueless as to where they took Mathias. "I need help tracking the people who took my friend. My familiar said his quarters were completely destroyed - nothing left to give me clues. I need to find him, saer." Wrapping his arms around himself, he says, "I can't lose him. I...I love him. I can't lose another person I love."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He's done a lot of research on dragons. He knows they can communicate verbally and psionically. So he's a little confused as to ... His eyes watch Delton carefully, but he is quite surprised at this earnest confession. He knows he shouldn't be. Delton's actually be quite clear it seems. But they were just pretending, playing house, 'fake dating'. He loves him. But love is a fickle thing. Delton could just be fond of him. And he still doesn't know about his secret. What's one more secret? Maybe he could send Delton a message that he is fine. Well not fine, but managing. Better than he was, at least. He contemplates, albeit a bit sluggishly with his tired brain, how to manage a little dramatic reassurance so Delton will stay put and stay safe.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His eyes watch Delton carefully, but he is quite surprised at this earnest confession. He knows he shouldn't be. Delton's actual... The silence makes him wrap his arms around himself even tighter, rubbing his arms for reassurance. "I know it's a lot to ask, saer, but I really need help. And I don't have anyone else to turn to." He sighs, "I'm pretty sure someone in my own convent drugged me with the intention of giving me off to one of the local nobles. He would play hero and get to bed me. And the Madame is the one authority figure in this town left without me and Mathias. I can't take her away..." His hands come up to pull at his hair, the sting uncomfortable but grounding, "The town needs Mathias to destroy this plague. But I just also...need him. Hale and whole and happy."

Outside, there's shuffling. Quothe, still charmed, doesn't have a way to communicate beyond an alarmed caw after he hides himself in the leaves of his birch. A rather pale elf is pacing the area, having lost the trail of the little redhead he so desperately wants. He will get him, one way or another. There's no tracks in the area - Delton far too light on his feet to leave them. It makes the man curse in frustration.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His eyes watch Delton carefully, but he is quite surprised at this earnest confession. He knows he shouldn't be. Delton's actual... Natan kneels and begins to scry, deciding to start with the dragon and then move on from there, if it doesn't work. Whererver that damned librarian went would likely lead him to Delton. And his cleric wouldn't be able to resist him soon. Soon, his power over him would be irrefutable, once he delivered the Raven Queen Mathias and the dragon. Even the Chosen of Ilmater wouldn't stand a chance.

His purring stops abruptly and is replaced by growling, as he gently pushes Delton behind him and around the corner of the turn in the cave. His front fronds and feathers turn reflective and sharp, like an obsidian arrowhead. One her of her followers is near and it is most likely that scheming jackass, Blackfrond. He releases his the charm on Quothe with parting words of *"Lead the fool away, please. I will keep your charge safe.*" And then he feels the impending pressure of the Weave, something akin to when his ears would pop as a human. His eyes turn opalescent and the glyphs in red light up below him as that asinine fool casts Scry to find him—focusing on both his human form and his dragon form. Counterspell flares to life beneath him, masked by the heavy wards he put up a few years ago.

A red light bursts from the scrying caster's hands instead of his own spell and blasts him backward with force into a tree with a curse.

Once the charm is released, it takes a moment for him to gain his bearings. But the dragon's voice remains in his head, promising to care for Delton. The voice is oddly familiar... But, Quothe needs to make sure Delton is okay. ||'Delton, are you quite alright? Blackfrond is outside.'||

Delton can't help his gasp as the dragon bodily moves him, away from the mouth of the cave and behind them, relatively close. When the claw came, he couldn't help but flinch. But that's a...personal issue, not the dragon's fault. Quothe's voice in his head is a little panicked and, for a moment, he's able to see through the raven's eyes. Natan Blackfrond is flat on his ass, a spell clearly having gone awry. ||'I'm fine. The dragon is taking care of me. Get Blackfrond away from the dragon.'||

The words from his charge are a relief. He can feel Delton, of course, but that is diluted by the powerful magic wards. He cocks his head, thinking. Before deciding that swooping down and back up would likely lead Blackfrond away. There's only two white ravens around, after all. So Quothe does, swooping as if he's going for prey and notices Blackfrond, before soaring back up. Ilmater, let this work! -# @Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)

> Reply to: @Quothe, the Raven (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The words from his charge are a relief. He can feel Delton, of course, but that is diluted by the powerful magic wards. He c... “Fucking hells,” he hisses. His raven swoops down, chittering while its eyes glow and eerie black. “Yes, yes, I know. No, it seems the librarian is well enough to counterspell the scry, my queen.” He blanches a little as the bird’s chittering seems curt. “No…the dragon seems to have prevented it as well but,” he spots Quothe, “the cleric might lead me to him.”

> Reply to: @Natan Blackfrond (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Fucking hells,” he hisses. His raven swoops down, chittering while its eyes glow and eerie black. “Yes, yes, I know. No, ... Hook, line, and sinker. He slowly swoops down a bit, waiting for the elf to follow. It's not the first time he's been the bait to protect Delton. And he'd gladly do it over and over.

> Reply to: @Natan Blackfrond (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > “Fucking hells,” he hisses. His raven swoops down, chittering while its eyes glow and eerie black. “Yes, yes, I know. No, ... Delton can't help but hold his breath as Quothe leads Blackfrond away. But what struck him was the weirdness of his interactions with the raven. That wasn't the interaction of equals, of charge and protector. No, Blackfrond was showing...deference? "I promise, saer dragon, I didn't know he was following. I wouldn't have led him here if I knew," the dragon doesn't seem quite upset but Delton couldn't tell you why. The dragon would have been well in their rights to be angry with him. Instead, they just seemed...protective? This just keeps getting stranger and stranger. "But he wasn't talking to that raven as if it was his familiar...that's so strange..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help but hold his breath as Quothe leads Blackfrond away. But what struck him was the weirdness of his interactions... His low growl is still present, muscles tense and ready for attack.

> Reply to: @Quothe, the Raven (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Hook, line, and sinker. He slowly swoops down a bit, waiting for the elf to follow. It's not the first time he's been the b... The raven nips at his ear and he hisses before its eyes turn back to a standard beady appearance and it gives a soft coo. "Welcome back, Innok. The librarian is still missing but well. We have prey to hunt." He turns to shadow and darts after Quothe, past the cave and deeper into the forest.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help but hold his breath as Quothe leads Blackfrond away. But what struck him was the weirdness of his interactions... Eventually his growl slows to a stop. Then he huffs, settling down and yawning. He turns and uses a claw to scratch another stick figure against the wall with a checkmark next to it.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > Eventually his growl slows to a stop. Then he huffs, settling down and yawning. He turns and uses a claw to scratch another stic... Delton tilts his head, a look of confusion on his face. "I-I'm not sure what you mean, saer? The ba-Blackfrond left as a shadow...." He starts to mumble to himself, "I didn't think he was a sorcerer..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton tilts his head, a look of confusion on his face. "I-I'm not sure what you mean, saer? The ba-Blackfrond left as a shado... He smiles, but he's sure that a dragon smiling looks about as friendly as a displacer beast smiling. He sighs and reaches over to put an M on the face of the stick figure and re-emphasizes the checkmark next to the stick figure man. Then he draws a second stick figure man with a bird on his shoulder. He starts to growl a little and draws above that second one a robed figure with a crown on its head and birds all around it, almost looming over the other one.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He smiles, but he's sure that a dragon smiling looks about as friendly as a displacer beast smiling. He sighs and reaches over t... The dragon bares their teeth, likely in an attempt to soothe him. Unfortunately, it does have the same impact of a human smiling and showing all their teeth - demonstrating they're an apex predator. Delton tries to remain unfazed. He watches the drawing intently, trying to piece together what the dragon is saying. "Mathias is...good? Like morally or physically or both?" The second figure seems to be Blackfrond with his raven. But the robed figure confuses him. Taking a few deep breaths, trying to piece together everything else. Shadow magic...fey and chaos magic...birds - specifically, ravens.... The Raven Queen. Ilmater help them, it would make sense. Feeding off the animals and manipulating the nobles. But why this town? Why not Waterdeep or the Gate or even a bigger village? "The-the Raven Queen? What would she want with a town like this?" He takes another steadying breath and asks, "Are you hurt? Is that why you can't talk? I'm a skilled healer - I should be able to help..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The dragon bares their teeth, likely in an attempt to soothe him. Unfortunately, it does have the same impact of a human smiling... He points at the stick figure and nods yes. Then he points at the grumpy stupid elf drawing and then taps the symbol for the Raven Queen. Then he taps his own chest. He looks away to yawn again, not trying to scare Delton with his teeth. He has manners still. Then he taps his own chest and closes his eyes, tilts his head to the side and pretends to sleep. Usually, he would be keen on letting Delton decide. But he is exhausted. Truly. And having his ma—friend nearby would give him the ease of mind to at least rest well enough despite the fool running around the woods on a goose chase. He gently snuffles at Delton's neck, nudging him to turn around and then he delicately picks Delton up by back of his overcoat and trudges deeper into the cave.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He points at the stick figure and nods yes. Then he points at the grumpy stupid elf drawing and then taps the symbol for the Rav... The dragon seems intent on the fact that Mathias is good. Does Mathias know them? Why wouldn't the wizard have told him? Oh they're going to have words. "The Raven Queen...wants you? Why?" But the dragon indicates that they are tired and he's not going to get between a dragon and their needs. The idea of a sleep deprived, cranky dragon is more frightening than funny, after all. The gentle snuggling makes Delton turn, preparing to set himself up just inside the illusion until Quothe gives him the all clear. But then the dragon picks him up. He releases a frightened yelp at that, but the dragon doesn't seem to be angry - just...moving him? What could the dragon possibly get out of this?

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > The dragon seems intent on the fact that Mathias is good. Does Mathias know them? Why wouldn't the wizard have told him? Oh the... He ambles down into the cave passageways until he comes upon his small hoard and nest. The platform is made of buffed down crystal, no sharp spikes or anything. But its covered in petrified vines, hay, furs, and a ton of his molted feathers. He climbs into his nest and sets Delton down carefully before curling up in the corner. He settles his maw down on his front paws and blinks his amber eyes lazily at his cleric.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He ambles down into the cave passageways until he comes upon his small hoard and nest. The platform is made of buffed down cryst... Delton blinks back, confusion evident on his face. "Um, I'm not sure what you want me to do here. I...don't want to intrude..." He's trying to not be too curious. He knows dragons can be possessive of their hoards. He's worried too much interest in it may be threatening. "...It's a very nice nest, saer..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton blinks back, confusion evident on his face. "Um, I'm not sure what you want me to do here. I...don't want to intrude...... A laugh rumbles out of him. He uses psionics and the word "WELCOME" assembles in some of the rough and crude way. He blows at it and it reassembles into the word *"WANTED"*. More lazy blinks.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > A laugh rumbles out of him. He uses psionics and the word "WELCOME" assembles in some of the rough and crude way. He blows at ... "You want me...to sleep?" He feels like he's in a weird alternate reality. This doesn't seem normal for any dragon meeting a mortal for the first time. He had hoped for curiosity, at best. This is downright hospitality. Not that dragons can't be hospitable. They're just...wary of mortals. For good reason. They're seen as monsters by many.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "You want me...to sleep?" He feels like he's in a weird alternate reality. This doesn't seem normal for any dragon meeting a mo... His tail circles around behind Delton making the circle clearer. He really wants to just pick him up and set him into the circle of his arms, tail curled around the elf. But he settles for letting his tail fluff Delton's hair playfully.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His tail circles around behind Delton making the circle clearer. He really wants to just pick him up and set him into the circle... This is potentially the weirdest experience of Delton's life. And that's saying a lot, seeing as he's lived a lot in his short sixty-two years. But there's a dragon playing with his hair. Why? He's unsure. But they're very much playing with his hair. "You...want me to...stay here?' He asks, a little unsure. He feels like being invited into a dragon's nest means something. But, frankly, none of the books he read covered this situation. He's always been prone to improbablities.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > This is potentially the weirdest experience of Delton's life. And that's saying a lot, seeing as he's lived a lot in his short... He stops fluffing his hair, remembering that Delton doesn’t know this form. This dragon. He sighs and removes his tail, curling in more on himself to give Delton space. He’s not happy about it but at least Delton is nearby. Then he gives Delton a small nod, blinking lazily.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He stops fluffing his hair, remembering that Delton doesn’t know this form. This dragon. He sighs and removes his tail, curlin... Delton frowns and tilts his head as he watches the dragons mood clearly change. "Did I-Did I say something to upset you? I don't want to make you uncomfortable in your own nest..." The dragon seems resigned, for some reason. "I don't need a lot of room...you don't have to curl up like that if you don't want..."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton frowns and tilts his head as he watches the dragons mood clearly change. "Did I-Did I say something to upset you? I don... It’s getting harder for his eyes to stay open so he turns over and shows his belly. It’s really the only other thing he can think of that shows he’s fine and comfortable and Delton should make himself at home. Without blowing his cover that is. His eyes drift shut and his wings relax.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > It’s getting harder for his eyes to stay open so he turns over and shows his belly. It’s really the only other thing he can thin... Delton got the feeling that the dragon doesn't want him to wonder very far. Since he doesn't want to upset them, he'll just try and find something to do. There's shelves full of books that he decides to look through, many of them on ancient magic. Some are on the followers of the Raven Queen - the shadar-kai - some on the Raven Queen herself, and even some on psionic dragons. He figures he can do some light research when he senses...Mathias? He breathes in and out, able to detect Mathias' unique magical signature. Wild and bright, but also steady and warm. Sometimes even blazing hot. His journals. There's a few of them, neatly shelved together. He senses the magic of an Arcane Lock on them and... Well, he'd normally never invade Mathias' privacy like this. But he's missing and his journals are in a dragon's lair. He casts Dispel Magic, putting a lot of power into it.

@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias) :game_die: Result: 1d20 (9) Total: 9

The dragon pops an eye open and then rolls it and goes back to sleep. Seems he doesn't care if Delton goes through his journals. The three that are shelved and present unlock, the sigil of the Arcane Lock bursting like a popped bubble. Each one is tattered, bearing no other out decoration other than being a leather-bound journal in different leather types.

-# @Bee (Tav: Delton) (forgot to tag sorry!)

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > The dragon pops an eye open and then rolls it and goes back to sleep. Seems he doesn't care if Delton goes through his journals.... Delton starts with the oldest journal first, hoping to find something that can reveal what in the Hells is going on. Why is Mathias' stuff here? Was he working with the dragon, without him? Oh, he and that man were going to have words (once he made sure Mathias was okay).

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton starts with the oldest journal first, hoping to find something that can reveal what in the Hells is going on. Why is Ma... The wizard's journals are filled with both short and long entries. Some have arcane diagrams or sketches of crystals, flowers. One entry, dated almost 150 years ago, details an meeting of minds. > 1҉3҉ ҉ M҉o҉n҉t҉h҉ ҉ 9҉2҉4҉ > > Pryzmat and I have come to an agreement. The dragon will allow me to stay whole, as I would like. It has...been an uncomfortable alliance, realization. But to know that he has been with me my entire life brings me a small comfort. > > The Raven Queen likely thinks herself clever for this outcome and that I am a prize to be bagged. She plagues us still.

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > The wizard's journals are filled with both short and long entries. Some have arcane diagrams or sketches of crystals, flowers. ... What in Ilmater's name... Mathias, for all appearances, looks not even middle-aged. Yet, he's been alive for over one hundred fifty years? And accompanied, watched by a *dragon*? That doesn't make any sense, but the proof of it is right here, in his hands. Pryzmat. That must be the dragon's name. With the limited communication, he hadn't thought to ask. He starts to scan the books for something, anything that would give him some clarity.

The next entry the elf reads is dated 50 years later. -# Not necessarily in order, we're skipping around a bit. > 1҉3҉ ҉ M҉o҉n҉t҉h҉ ҉ 9҉2҉4҉ > > Something strange started today. Pryzmat insists this is normal, standard even. I am less than thrilled. I am glad we have made a lair to camp in more permanently. This...illness may prove to be difficult to manage. The next few pages are ripped out.

The entries continue on every year or so with a normal occurance of the mysterious illness for about a decade before any further mention of an illness declines in frequency, with the last entry being almost a decade ago. It seems this entire journal is dedicated to tracking frequency of Mathias's unknown illness. The next journal the elf picks up, starts much further back once more. In fact, almost 200 years ago. > 1҉3҉ ҉ M҉o҉n҉t҉h҉ ҉ 82҉4҉ > > My mistress has said that I cannot take the rite and become one of hers because of something within me. Something that makes me...special. I sincerely doubt how special something would be that it prevents me from becoming one of her chosen. > > Nevertheless, I shall carry on and be diligent in my errands. The next few entries detail things seen traveling about Toril, more mentions of a dark mistress. Then a month of passing time and an entry that is heartfelt and bitter. > ҉23҉ ҉ M҉o҉n҉t҉h҉ ҉ 87 ҉6 ҉ > > This was a mistake. I should have let them kill me. This was pointless. What is it worth?! My life is forfeit. I will be running for the rest of my life. Adrift and alone once more. Is there truly no where I can belong like this?

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > The entries continue on every year or so with a normal occurance of the mysterious illness for about a decade before any further... Mathias is sick? What? He's been suffering and he didn't tell me? Delton's frustration is borne out of sadness. How could he not notice? Why didn't Mathias trust him? He just wants to protect the man. A dark mistress? Perhaps the Raven Queen herself? He knows Mathias is no longer following the Raven Queen, seeing as the dragon trusts him and clearly hates the Raven Queen. Dragons can read. Pryzmat would know and probably have killed him long ago. That last entry breaks Delton's heart. To imagine Mathias feeling so alone that death seemed the better option... He's been there. He has the scars decorating his forearms to prove it.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Mathias is sick? What? He's been suffering and he didn't tell me? Delton's frustration is borne out of sadness. How could he ... He turns over and rustles his feathers, letting out an aborted snore, and his tail moves around lazily as if looking for something before settling once more.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Mathias is sick? What? He's been suffering and he didn't tell me? Delton's frustration is borne out of sadness. How could he ... The remainder of the journal spans 100 years of travel, small villages here and there. Heavier entries when there is plague or pestilence. Ranting entries about the Raven Queen not letting him be gone are sprinkled through the years. When there is an entry about a new village, there is a line drawn to the edge of the paper and a star added. The last entry is dated a few years ago and speaks of the village past the cave and forest, of the library they just left. > ҉06 ҉ M҉o҉n҉t҉h҉ ҉ 117 ҉6 ҉ > > I have made it to a new village. Unsurprisingly, it is not to far from a neighboring kingdom that has ties to my previous employment more than a century ago. So far the local madame is quite nice and her flock are quite lovely. I am not sure I can whet my appetite with them however and risk my illness returning unwanted. I have started a small library in hopes I might interest the village council to sponsor the effort. The people really should be better read than I have encountered in the last tenday. The entries end with plenty more blank pages, so the redheaded elf picks up the last one. A star is on the first page at the top margin with the name of the village.

Entries detail plenty of comings and going, seasonal precipitation readings in neat little charts, and pages of budgetary ledger notes as well as descriptions of crate deliveries with books. Actual journal entries seem to work their way forward from the end of the book, a system it seems. There is a ribbon marking the last entries completed. > ҉11 ҉ M҉o҉n҉t҉h҉ ҉ 118 ҉1 ҉ > > There is a new cleric in town. His familiar is a raven but...white. Given the brightness of his nature and the unnatural glow of his spirit, it is clear he is a Chosen of Ilmater and not a shadarkai so the familiar must simply prefer a raven form. > > I do not understand...why they chose to summon a cleric. You cannot banish a dragon with divine magic...unless they send a paladin next. More sanctimonious dogma, how lovely. > > Ah but I am unfair to the cleric. He is...charming, not dogmatic at all. Pryzmat has certainly taken a liking to him.

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > > ҉22 ҉ M҉o҉n҉t҉h҉ ҉ 118 ҉1 ҉ > > *I do believe I have done something quite...out of character. Pryzmat thinks it quite funny. ... Each entry just serves to make Delton feel more and more guilty about violating Mathias' privacy. He doesn't want to snoop, not really. He just wants to bring Mathias home. Mathias might not think he has a home, but it's with him. They can make one. The Ilmateri is unsure of why Mathias has lived so long - a godling, perhaps? - but that doesn't matter. There's nothing that could chase him away from the wizard. He'd follow him anywhere. Delton falls fast and hard. He just blpes that Mathias will accept that. The entries give him hope. It's been hours since Delton started, pouring over the entries. He can't help but asleep sitting up, clutching the journal to his chest. As if it's a treasure he can't bear to let go.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Each entry just serves to make Delton feel more and more guilty about violating Mathias' privacy. He doesn't want to snoop, not ... He wakes every few hours to check his on surroundings, on his cleric. He decides to grow a few more crystals inside the cave, down near where the metal deposits start to show up in the rock. Then he notices Delton slumped over next to the nest, holding one of the journals to his chest. His tail slips out of the nest and gently wraps around Delton's form, supporting his head lifts him into the nest. It lays him in the softest feathers he pushed toward the middle of the nest where he can curl himself around and while he does so, Delton stirring just enough to fidget and turn, mumbling in his sleep, his tail gently lays a fur over the elf to keep him warm. And then he goes back to sleep himself, curled protectively around his cleric.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He wakes every few hours to check his on surroundings, on his cleric. He decides to grow a few more crystals inside the cave, do... The stress of the last two days means he doesn't wake when the dragon lifts him. He cuddles into the feathers and releases an audible sigh when the fur is placed over him. It's not that cold, but Delton didn't prepare for tracking. He manages to catch hold of one of the tail fronds in his sleep, trying to hug himself around it.

The two sleep like the dead for a good while, far past the break of dawn.

-# @Bee (Tav: Delton)

> Reply to: @The Narrator (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > The two sleep like the dead for a good while, far past the break of dawn. When he wakes, Delton isn't sure of where he is and what he's holding on to. It takes him a moment, but he realizes that he's currently in the middle of a curled up dragon, and he's holding their tail. He doesn't panic, exactly, but he does quickly drop the tail. He has no clue how he ended up here, covered in furs and surrounded by dragon. He gets up on unsteady feet to try and get his bearings.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > When he wakes, Delton isn't sure of where he is and what he's holding on to. It takes him a moment, but he realizes that he's ... He peeks open one eye, watching as Delton is a bit unsteady. His tail slips under his hand to give him something to lean on.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He peeks open one eye, watching as Delton is a bit unsteady. His tail slips under his hand to give him something to lean on. Mathias must be right. The dragon - Pryzmat - must be fond of me for some reason... He leans on the tail gratefully. Fortunately, the downy bedding was enough to make him feel rested and not sore after waking. But then, Mathias' journals come to mind. He turns to look the dragon in the eye, "Do you know why Mathias hid you from me? I-I thought he trusted me..." And that's the rub. What hurts is the lack of trust. The sign that Mathias doesn't feel the same as him.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Mathias must be right. The dragon - Pryzmat - must be fond of me for some reason... He leans on the tail gratefully. Fortunat... He picks his head up, both eyes open now, and looks at the cleric for a long while. Then he looks down the length of his own body as if to convey: well, I’m a dragon. He decides on an illusion spell this time, safely tucked away in the cave. He waves a hand and a scene plays out of people on horseback firing flaming arrows at him. It changes and it’s another memory of lying in a volcano’s inner mouth, inside a cave, his second pair of larger wings oozing ichor from a few arrows.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He picks his head up, both eyes open now, and looks at the cleric for a long while. Then he looks down the length of his own bod... "But I would have helped! I have contacts all over the Sword Coast - all over Faerûn. I would've found you someplace you don't have to hide..." Between the Ilmateri and the Naïlos, he could've tracked down a proper clan of dragons. He's not fond of Neverwinter, but the climate is more suitable and more tolerant of magical beasts. Fire elementals heat the mountain after all. "I-I still can, after we find him. I'll need some time but I should be able to find you somewhere you don't have to be alone and afraid..." He's not above abusing his status of Chosen for it either.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "But I would have helped! I have contacts all over the Sword Coast - all over Faerûn. I would've found you someplace you don't... His gaze softens and he pushes his snout against Delton’s abdomen, nuzzling against him as a purr starts up. The cleric has always been a kindhearted man. He is grateful for his coming into his life. Now he just needs to make sure they don’t die.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His gaze softens and he pushes his snout against Delton’s abdomen, nuzzling against him as a purr starts up. The cleric has al... He blinks down at the dragon, reaching up to pet them. "Neither of you deserve to be alone. No one does. I'm sorry that you've had to hide for so long." He knows what it means to spend his life hiding. Sometimes he feels like the Circle of Snow will pop up and hurt him, even decades later. "But we need to find Mathias. Then we can set you up somewhere safe."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He blinks down at the dragon, reaching up to pet them. "Neither of you deserve to be alone. No one does. I'm sorry that you've... He considers not asking but his curiosity gets the best of him. He taps Delton’s head then heart with his tail. Then he taps the journal. You care for him.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He considers not asking but his curiosity gets the best of him. He taps Delton’s head then heart with his tail. Then he taps t... It takes a few moments for him to piece together Pryzmat's meaning. But, he does. "I love him," he says, as if it's that simple. Because it is. "I was married for twenty years and happily so. I know what love is." "I don't love him like my husband because there's no comparing. But I know I love him. And I'd spend the rest of my life at his side, without his love, as long as I could have him in my life. But it would take only his desire to send me away." He would happily watch Mathias fall in love with someone else, as long as he is healthy and whole and safe. He'd be content to love him from up close and from a distance. But, he'd always love him.

His eyes widen and the tail ends starts to wag. He tries to transform back…but he’s stuck. He is stuck in this form thanks to that fucking curse and his constant struggle to just find a happy medium. This is unfair to Delton though. His feelings being reciprocated has him over the moon, but being with a dragon means constant danger. Besides, he loves Mathias…not Pryzmat. And that realization dulls the excitement considerably. He sighs and his tail droops. He needs to find a way to be gone. To leave. It will break Delton’s heart but he would be heartbroken to know he is the dragon anyway.

1

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

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> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His eyes widen and the tail ends starts to wag. He tries to transform back…but he’s stuck. He is stuck in this form thanks to ... Delton clocks the drooping of Pryzmat's tail immediately, whiplash quick from previous joy. He doesn't know why, but he has a feeling that his words have somehow made the dragon sad. "It's alright, love. I imagine Mathias and you are very close. I wouldn't get between you..." It crosses his mind for a second that a dragon is much better suited to a fey or demigod, something Mathias is bound to be considering the journal entries. "You don't have to worry. If you two want to go off without me, I'd be content to that. But I wish you'd let the both of you in my life...even if I know I'll die and break both of your hearts one day. Call me selfish, I'm sorry." He keeps petting the dragon, suddenly feeling the dread that he's doomed to another lost love. At least he can still have him, in some capacity. Hopefully.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton clocks the drooping of Pryzmat's tail immediately, whiplash quick from previous joy. He doesn't know why, but he has a fe... He shakes his head, his laugh a rumble. He stands and lifts Delton onto his back, over his second set of feathered wings before padding down out of the nest and toward the fire, stoking it with his tail. The twin tips pick up and move the stones around so that the magical fire continues to emit radiant heat. Then he lifts a tea kettle with his tail and puts it on the fire. He bends down to Delton can climb down.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He shakes his head, his laugh a rumble. He stands and lifts Delton onto his back, over his second set of feathered wings before ... Delton can't help but gently stroke the feathered wings, enjoying the feel of them. He climbs down when Pryzmat bends, happy to go where the dragon indicates. He's not a hostage by any means, but he gets the feeling that Pryzmat will be disappointed if he tries to leave. "So, do we have a plan?"

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton can't help but gently stroke the feathered wings, enjoying the feel of them. He climbs down when Pryzmat bends, happy to... He pauses and sighs. He shakes his head, a reluctant no. He looks towards the entrance and his meager food supplies. They cannot remain in here forever. He looks back over to Delton as his tail removes the tea kettle and pours them both some tea in little crystal tumblers clearly meant for wide use. He waves his hand and a bare-bones illusion flickers like a television with bad reception displaying a white raven drifitng on air currents. He makes a questioning sound.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He pauses and sighs. He shakes his head, a reluctant no. He looks towards the entrance and his meager food supplies. They cannot... Delton's eyes widen. In the stress he forgot about Quothe entirely. He takes a deep breath and looks through Quothe's eyes. And immediately sees Natan Blackfrond's face. He comes back to himself immediately. "Fuck! He has him!" His eyes are wet with tears of frustration but he wills them back. He immediately tries to summon Quothe and it doesn't work. He wishes he could scream, but that doesn't help. "I-I can't leave him, but Blackfrond definitely just figured out that I'm around. You need to leave."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton's eyes widen. In the stress he forgot about Quothe entirely. He takes a deep breath and looks through Quothe's eyes. ... He cannot control his magic well in this form and his **m— *friend** wants to go into the fray of the trap laid before them. Needless to say, he's not thrilled. His tail now thwips about, frustrated. He looks at Delton with an expression that clearly says, What do you propose?

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He cannot control his magic well in this form and his **m— *friend** wants to go into the fray of the trap laid before them. Ne... "I have to save him. I-I can't leave him. It should at least be able to buy you some time, Pryzmat. You'll have to go far, but I'm sure if you head toward Neverwinter, you'll find some more sympathetic people." Any hunger he felt from not eating the night before until now is gone. It's replaced with worry. "Does Mathias keep any weapons here? I only have my herbalism knives." He's starting to scan the room to try to find anything he can use.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > "I have to save him. I-I can't leave him. It should at least be able to buy you some time, Pryzmat. You'll have to go far, but I... He looks around and then down toward the hot spring. His tail curls down the steep step to where he keeps his more valuable hoard tucked under the steppe floor. He comes back with two daggers made of obsidian. Their hilt is mithril, light and weighted intentionally. Both are inset with a smoky quartz. He presents them to Delton, laying them on the stone table.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He looks around and then down toward the hot spring. His tail curls down the steep step to where he keeps his more valuable hoa... Delton didn't expect such valuable daggers. He hoped for something that could help him protect himself, but not this. He knows how important a dragon's hoard is. "If I see you again, I will do my best to return these, alright? Thank you." He considers whether he should cast Holy Weapon on them. It would make it impossible to use stealth, but Quothe could be seriously hurt if he doesn't bring out the stops. He enchants the daggers, looking for some sort of cloth to dim the holy light emanating from them.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton didn't expect such valuable daggers. He hoped for something that could help him protect himself, but not this. He knows... You notice the light on them does actually fade on its own as if obscured in the shadow of the quartz. Your chosen truesight shows that they are indeed still enchanted, a glow harbored within that is now prismatic. To the naked eye, one would think it a natural trick of the light reflecting on the obsidian.

He shakes his head and snorts. They are Delton's now, of course. But he knows the elf will ignore any pushback on the matter. He bristles and shows Delton his only nonmagical defensive mechanism— his scales go from soft glittery things to flat and reflective. He basically looks like a large oddly shaped, darkened mirror.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > He shakes his head and snorts. They are Delton's now, of course. But he knows the elf will ignore any pushback on the matter. H... Delton shakes his head. "You can't come with me. They're looking for you and want to hurt you." He doesn't like the idea of leaving Pryzmat, but if he goes after Quothe, he must. "They'll get bored of me eventually if I'm caught. I won't know where you are so I won't be useful." He pets the dragon's side, hoping to appease them.

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > Delton shakes his head. "You can't come with me. They're looking for you and want to hurt you." He doesn't like the idea of lea... His scales and feathers shift back to their glittering shadowy color and while a purr does kick up in his chest, he squares Delton with an unimpressed look.

> Reply to: @Obsidian Dragon (@Toffee (Rhiannon/Mathias)) > His scales and feathers shift back to their glittering shadowy color and while a purr does kick up in his chest, he squares Delt... He shakes his head defiantly. "I will not deliver you into the hands of those fiends. You must leave me to it and start heading to Neverwinter, Pryzmat. If Mathias was here, he'd want you to be safe."

> Reply to: @Delton Naïlo (@Bee (Tav: Delton)) > He shakes his head defiantly. "I will not deliver you into the hands of those fiends. You must leave me to it and start headin... It takes every ounce of his now very large being not to laugh so hard the ceiling collapses. He sits back on his haunches and crosses his arms. He’s intrigued to see how the Chosen of Ilmater plans on keeping him from following.