[semi-open] come, let's fly.

[babbylon]

Who: Gilgamesh and various characters
When: Following the latest dungeon.
Where: the Airy, around Polgar, possibly other places
What: Catch-all log for post-dungeon adventures.
Rating: I'll just slap this with the classic "Gilgamesh Deserves His Own Warning" warning. Mentions of rape in Adrasteius thread. Fetish and sex talk in the Kavi thread.

[Custom prompts are below. Feel free to PM me if you're interested in doing something aboard the Airy or in Polgar; I'd be happy to plot with you!]

Comments

Setsuna

[babbylon]

[They'd made it out of the dungeon, safe and sound, and with plenty of time to spare; even the other soldiers stationed nearby congratulated them on their swiftness, with the sun still high in the sky. But there was no time to celebrate. Setsuna was injured, and even with healing provided he clearly needed to rest.

They climb aboard the Airy, all three of them, and find a warm, quiet place for Setsuna to stay in. There isn't much to the room, just a bed, some chairs, and a table, but Gilgamesh knows he will be fine on his own and that he wasn't a man that required luxury to begin with. Wishing him well, he spends a couple hours with Vietnam, blowing a bit of that hard-earned cash and getting to know each other just a little bit better as they comb the fancy stores and chat. It feels warm, it feels natural. It feels right.

Of course, Setsuna isn't forgotten. Gilgamesh insists they stop to pick up a few treats on the way back, and he eagerly carries them up to the room, whistling a cheery tune. He doesn't bother to knock, just popping his head right in with one of his infamously bright grins.]

Quit dozing, then! You're in the presence of the King!

[Whether he was asleep or not, Setsuna gets scolded just the same. Several boxes tower in his arms, and they smell delicious. He's got something good.]

[quaria]

[ As a light sleeper and a guarded person, Setsuna already awoke a while ago. The poison from his body was long dispelled, so he's only left with that deep wound. But by this time, he has of course been properly treated; in gratitude for the combined efforts of his precious party members, as well as first aid that settled away the remaining pain. Right now, all he's doing is continuing to rest. His mana is still recovering overall, having to have been dangerously so close to fading... So he peacefully lies against his bed, already recognized that they were back to their assigned room. They were back at the Airy by the time he realized it not long ago.

Even after hearing the King's oddly enthusiastic voice, Setsuna doesn't move right away. His eyes remain staring out — out there, stilled at the scenic window beside his bed. The sunset sky kept him occupied all this time. He's at ease, considering that the sensation of flying high above the earth is something he regards familiar and comfortable. Though, he doesn't remain like that for too long. Eventually, he does turn his head to look at Gilgamesh. Those eyes which seem to contain eternity shift to stare at him this time, indicating that he's just fine. He's alive and well. Soon enough, he'll be on his feet again. That's the kind of light which can be found in those eyes of his... As expected, he's keeping his promise to live on. He studies the King before him, wondering how he's feeling in this moment.

They cleared their first dungeon... They're safe for now. That's why they can relax like this. He's thankful they have chances like this, to catch up and gather their thoughts. He has a lot to think about after their long day. Now that the sun is setting, they can just allow the time to slow down until the next day would come. Setsuna attempts to sit up, doing it carefully so he wouldn't accidentally stress his injury. ]

[babbylon]

[Once, those eyes would've been disconcerting. He would've shied from them; he would've yelled in the face of them. But now he understands that this is simply the way Setsuna looks at the world, and so he has learned to appreciate it. For several seconds, he stares back, his own gaze just as faraway, quietly insightful. It is a show of respect, but also a show of camaraderie. He too knows what lies behind such distant eyes.]

I brought something for you.

[Gilgamesh makes his way to Setsuna's bedside, sitting on the edge of it. He puts down the boxes, lays them across Setsuna's lap, and opens them one by one. Inside each are an entire meal's worth of delicious food—seared lamb, seasoned mutton, grilled kabobs, rice cakes and stuffed vegetables and generous selections of cheese and yogurt. All favorites inspired by the cuisine of his homeland, chosen for the purposes of nostalgia. Silverware rests in the final box, enough for both of them.

Gilgamesh holds his head high like a child awaiting approval.]

I thought we might share, and that a meal would lift your spirits. Will you dine with me?

[quaria]

[ It's understatement to describe Setsuna's initial reaction as mere surprise. He's undoubtedly caught off-guard by all of this, especially as someone who doesn't recognize the concept of pleasure. Despite how he truly feels though, he hides it all away with the same blank expression that he upholds against the world. For the first few seconds, it feels as if he's not reacting at all. But that's not true. He is bewildered from the thought presented to him. He doesn't... know how to react to all of this, how to realize it, or if he should accept it.

Once Setsuna moves his head, revealing his eyes one more time to the King, it's more evident from this proximity of how overwhelmed he really is. Despite the dark hue within those irises, the fact that they're so light indicate the emotions hiding behind them. No, he shouldn't push away such kind thoughts. Even if he doesn't deserve it, he didn't want to completely turn away. He would reject pleasure at point blank, but he understands that it isn't about that. Gilgamesh genuinely wants to share these blessings to him. For that, he wants to recognize those feelings... And thus, he nods once. It's a small one, but the fact he accepted it means much more.

This is too much for him. How should he properly convey his gratitude? He doesn't have anything to offer back... He doesn't know how to repay such kindness. He understands the theme of these meals... They all had one thing together. They all rooted from their mutual homeland. That's the reason why it's too much, apart from such honesty presented to him. ]

... You helped me live on, yet you are the one doing this.

[ He got reckless again back there. But he doesn't regret doing what he had. It's worth it to see this King hold his head high, so innocently at that. ]

[babbylon]

Is this difficult for you?

[Gilgamesh sees no reason to beat around the bush. He calls it right out, which may be a little uncomfortable, but it's something they would've had to address eventually. Gilgamesh did not count many among his inner circle, yet he would spoil those who made it there endlessly. Setsuna would have to learn to accept this sort of treatment, as much more of it would follow and Gilgamesh wouldn't tolerate any refusal, no matter how polite.

He reaches for Setsuna's wrist, much like he had within the dungeon, as a placating gesture. Smoothing fingers across his skin, taking his hand in a gentle grip for but a few seconds before letting go. Such contact would also be commonplace between them, as Gilgamesh was a tactile creature, and despite appearances, needed it more than anyone.]

I will make no apologies. Instead, I would tell you I should like to see you smiling more often. So if you are happy, then smile.

[Gilgamesh shakes his head, gaze momentarily turning stern.]

But if you are not, say so. If you dislike something, be direct. I would act to correct it.

[Be straightforward, he seems to be saying. The shyness was endearing, but after a while it became a hassle to dismiss.]

Vietnam

[babbylon]

[With Setsuna laid down and resting comfortably aboard the Airy, Gilgamesh turns immediately to Vietnam. His features brighten, previously bordering on dour, and he boldly takes her by the hand. No time for celebration before, but now he's got energy to kill, and it shows.]

Have you had the chance to explore the ship? We are well off, with our fortunes; we should see to spreading that wealth around.

[He does give a thoughtful glance back, over his shoulder, to the room they've left behind.]

Perhaps we might find him a gift or two, to compensate for his condition... what do you think? How does that saying go—shall we "shop until we drop"?

[Even if he's asking, it sounds like the sort of offer that can't be refused. Gilgamesh could be awfully pushy when he wanted something, and he wants her company.]

[hoasen]

[Phew, that wasn't too bad, with how Airy was just a step away from the dungeon after they left. Setsuna was in good, safe hands now, and not just because of Gilgamesh, but because of the comforts of Airy. Now they can only wait.

Or not, as Vietnam felt her hand taken into Gilgamesh's and he's brightly eager to explore the ship. He's optimistic! They know Setsuna is going to be fine, so taking this opportunity and rolling with it is a great idea. She'll hold on and follow him, since there really is much to see and everywhere to start.]

I have explored parts of the ship! But I haven't, ah, shopped until I dropped yet, so this will be nice. [They're loaded, they have time, and now they don't need hold back. She has a fair idea where to go on the shopping level, having browsed prior to the dungeon trip.] Do you know what Setsuna would like? And where would you like to begin?

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh has her by the hand, but for the most part, he allows her to lead. While she'd gotten the chance to explore a little, Gilgamesh had explored none; he trusts she knows where to go, and so sets a brisk pace for her to follow. For a hand that once struck others down mercilessly, his proves warm and soft. Protective, as she'd been of him in the dungeon.]

I believe we are both due for some new sets of clothes. Myself, in particular.

[He picks a little at his torn sleeve, frowning.]

I am most unfashionable in this tawdry uniform. A King should shine brightly, not be left to dim in the shadows.

[hoasen]

[Vietnam will be very willing to lead him to wherever he wants to. Since she has a fair idea, she could make it quick and easy, but this here is an outing! They say enduring the toughest situations is what strengthens bonds, because for someone who is quite private, she actually finds the hold of his hand rather warm and safe. A big contrast to his big words.]

I agree. [She looks down at her clothes, all dirty and scratched up, before reaching over to the tear in his sleeve--] Excuse me, [--and touches along the edge to take a look. White uniforms are still the worst idea in her opinion (camo in action, gosh). This torn sleeve could be fixed, she would be able to give it small stitches.]

I can fix this when we return, but you are right that we do need new clothes. There are some nice clothes in the shops. Some a little cultural as well. [Ma Jiang fashion! Feathers!] I think we can get some at an affordable price. [If she bargains to death. Gently squeezing his hand, she directs him toward the entrance of the shop sector. They'll need to go deeper towards the end, where quality goods come at a much cheaper price.]

But also, there are fabrics here. If you worry about wearing your uniform all the time, we can find something nice here, and I will sew it for you when we return to Caissa.

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh knew her to be a grounded individual from the start, but even he's a little surprised at her ingenuity. Of course, any good wife should be able to sew; maybe he'd just become accustomed to women who preferred the battlefield over the kitchen. He nods, enthusiastic at the idea, walking where she guides him.]

We had best haggle as much as we can. Even with coin in our pockets, it would do no good to waste it all.

[He says this now, but guess who is, in fact, going to waste it all? This guy. He couldn't help it, he surrounded himself with luxury and he misses it dearly. Even if it was just illusion of it, he craved it above everything else, as evidenced when he eyes a flashy coat in a nearby window.]

...oh, what a trial, though! This King longs for the sweet embrace of gold once more! You must save me from myself, Vietnam, my heart breaks.

[What a drama queen. At least he'll be a source of entertainment for the trip.]

Adrasteius

[babbylon]

[How does one convince a prickly elf to take a vacation? Lure him with steam, of course. After waving goodbye to the departing Airy and catching a tardy Adrasteuis on the way out, Gilgamesh ropes him into a Polgar adventure along with the rest of his ragtag crew. He's a little sore and more than a little stubborn, but after a few flattering compliments—and a gentle reminder that he'll be walking regardless, now—they bring him aboard and begin the trek to to the famed resort city.

It doesn't take them more than a day or so, and Setsuna's bike makes the trip easier than it otherwise would be. As the others disperse to go about their business, Gilgamesh catches his remaining companion by the arm once they're near one of the bathhouses and grins.]

I see I have you all to myself for the time being. Shall we go inside?

[...oh, wait. Gilgamesh abruptly lets go, then points to the same arm. Touch? he asks with a point of his finger. He tried. Belatedly, but he still tried.]

[hymnals]

[ It had taken some effort on Gil's part, to be sure. But, in the end, facts were facts: Adra had quite literally missed the boat (or ... airship), and he's not so stubborn as to think it wise to make the walking journey alone. Still more stubborn than he really had to be, though.

Once they arrive in Polgar, Adra's hackles are up again, because this place looks to be just as much a den of debauchery as the Airy itself. A resort town ... how crassly goblin. He stalks through the town with a stormy expression on his face, and he seems fit to burst when Gil grabs his arm, but then ... then Gilgamesh stops. He thinks, and he reconsiders, and he asks.

It's proof, to Adra's mind, that their conversations--fraught as they are--haven't been in vain. He calms down noticeably, although he looks a bit nervous about the idea of the bathhouse. Still, he's not alone, and he supposes he hasn't been the best traveling companion so far.

He offers Gil his arm. ]

We can have a look. A quick look.

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh doesn't mind the grousing. In fact, he finds it endearing, in a sense. The elf was always interesting when he worked himself up into a mood, and Gilgamesh can handle a bit of browbeating in the name of entertainment. He flashes a confident smile at his companion when his arm is taken up and gives it a gentle pat, trying to reassure him that he can be trusted—though this was somewhat difficult when you had the eyes of a literal snake.]

Agreed. A quick look.

[So with Adra in tow, he enters the bathhouse. Almost immediately they're greeted by adorable Alfersan twins, by a polite bow and a chipper greeting of Gladia bless you. Gilgamesh inquires after a tour of the facilities and the taller sister obliges, leading them to a backroom with an open, natural pool and plenty of benches to relax on.

Gilgamesh glances to Adra with a raise of his brow.]

You are certain you did not wish to patronize them? I would pay...

[Yes, he's clearly angling for more than a look. Who would've guessed?]

[hymnals]

[ Gilgamesh's eyes are discomfiting; they suggest a darkness, something unkind, something that goes beyond mere arrogance, beyond flashy dramatics. Adra sees not merely violence, but contempt, the look of someone who plays at joviality because he feels assured that he walks among insects. It's what makes him most unsure of Gil, of his intentions, of whether this kindness is merely a ruse--a prelude to brutality, or something worse.

But for the moment, Adra just lets himself feel the sweet warmth of the steamroom, rising up around him, seeping into his blood and bones. Quel'thalas is the kingdom of the sun, and while he might be a reactionary in many ways, he is still sin'dorei in his heart. He loves brightness and fire; loves the light in all its forms.

He shuts his eyes, breathing slowly. In a room like this, with the heat so present and overwhelming, it was easy to let go of other anxieties--at least temporarily. ]

Only if we can stay in here.

[babbylon]

[They are the eyes of a god. Some would say the eyes of a demon, as they were powerfully hypnotic, had in fact lured many to their doom. However, it would be a mistake to classify Gilgamesh as good or evil, as he simply just was; he hated himself for many reasons, but never for appearances. If Adra is frightened or otherwise unnerved by it, he'd never noticed, as he was assured absolutely in his own fine looks.

Grinning a little in triumph, Gilgamesh pays up front—for some obvious reason that Gilgamesh has yet to discern, they were less trustful of men here—then waves to Adra, calling over his shoulder:]

I will see you in a few minutes, then. Let's look forward to it.

[The younger sister emerges to lead Adra away to a changing area, where he will be handed a towel and sent on his merry way to undress.

Gilgamesh does not take long at all to lose clothes, unsurprisingly, and comes back out with his lone towel wrapped around his waist. He lounges by the pool with his feet dangling in the water and allows the steam to soothe him. It's been some time since he's bathed in a hot spring, but this experience came awfully close.]

Asuna

[babbylon]

[It is quiet here.

It is quiet here, in the temple of ivory, where the Alfersa come to pray. Gilgamesh did not revere the gods, in fact had little respect for them at all, but curiosity beckons. What kind of deities did the people of this world worship, and for what reason? Did they love them? Did they fear them? Were their actions guided by the voices of a powerful few, or did they live relatively independently, only occasionally honoring them at a feast or festival?

Gilgamesh comes to the temple for answers, but also because he enjoys the scenery. Houses of worship were, if nothing else, very beautiful, and Gilgamesh appreciates beauty in all its forms. Perhaps this is why a girl catches his eye; even from behind, she is pretty, maidenly, even, and he calls out to her out of curiosity:]

What brings you here, child?

[Always to the point, this Gilgamesh. He hasn't gotten a good look her yet, so he doesn't recognize her as the spirited young lady from the network.]

good GOOD

[avantguard]

[ It's quiet here and that's probably why Asuna finds herself gravitating towards this temple besides the initial curiosity towards the culture of Polgar and Enprise. Asuna comes to this place for her thirst for knowledge, because if you had knowledge you could prepare for most things. Especially in a place like this.

She wants to be prepared for the next dungeon.

Asuna's chestnut hair gleams in whatever light hits it, lustrous and looking like silk. It's no wonder that Gil thinks this girl is more maiden than warrior even with a sword at her hip.

The voice is familiar and it causes her to twitch in her spot. That and being called "child" has a small frown on her face as she turns on her heel to face who's decided to join her. Only a child would be upset about being called as such. She definitely is one.

Once she spots those red eyes and blond hair she tenses up and her light brown eyes widen. ]

Y-You... king of─! [ Heroes, his ID. But king? He's no king of hers. She backtracks and takes a deep breath, calming down but definitely still on her guard. ]

Gilgamesh-san. I could ask the same of you.

[babbylon]

[...ah. There she is, "Asuna" of the sharp tongue. His brow furrows in recognition, but still he keeps his tone cordial. He didn't come to start an argument, and although he could be quite surly on even his best days, he intends to respect the sanctity of the temple. For now, at least.

Gilgamesh nods in acknowledgment. He recognizes the polite form of address, unique to her people; he reflects it in kind, in his own way.]

Good day.

[Gilgamesh glances to the nearby monument, a statue of a goddess with arms outstretched. He approaches it with a faint smile.]

I came to learn of this world's legends. My own may be mighty, but there's much to discern in the stories of others.

[avantguard]

[ He is being polite enough and she's made the decision to let him do as he pleases without kicking up a fuss, as long as he allows her to do the same. With the way they both agreed on the philosophy that one should live as they please, there should be no problems.

She's not expecting him to answer, in all honesty. She's not expecting to be intrigued by it either. This time she fights any exasperation that could show on her face and instead studies the smile on his lips, peeking at him from the corner of her eyes. ]

You're interested in the Alfersa?

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh glances over his shoulder, and it's almost like nothing suspect had transpired between them at all. Standing there, exuding a calm aura and wearing a neutral expression, he's just as his Epic claimed: a handsome man who appeared out of place among ordinary people, with golden hair and crimson eyes and the sort of gaze that suggested he was always looking through someone rather than at them.

Of course, the Epic also claimed he was a terrible tyrant, who tore down as much as he built and harassed his own people to amuse himself, so there really were two sides to the story. At any rate, he nods.]

You arrived before me, so it would seem. Catch wind of anything interesting?

[She is just a child, doe-eyed and innocent. But even children could have much to say, if prompted.]

Kavi

[babbylon]

[What a whirlwind of a week! It felt like just yesterday he was up to his poor eyeballs in snakes, and now he's back safe and sound in Caissa after a brief rest in Polgar. He hasn't been so active in centuries, millennia, it feels like, and it's a welcome change from lounging on a certain priest's couch all day and drowning himself in wine. His adventurer's roots are slowly but surely returning, and that may very well be for the best with the dangerous new world he's stumbled into.

His latest adventure has led him to the likes of Gobang Alley, which he'd heard much of but had yet to explore. He has only an invitation to go off of; he's not sure of the face he's looking for, nor of a name, but he should stand out enough on his own by the entrance. There he awaits his self-appointed tour guide with more than a bit of excitement, because what better way for a King to enjoy himself than romping through streets paved with sex and debauchery?

He just hopes this won't wind up being a disappointment. The way this stranger talked it up, it seemed as though it would be quite an experience.]

[umberly]

[ Said self-appointed tour guide arrives after a while, hands tucked into his pockets in a casual gesture of relaxation. He's walking into territory he knows well, enjoys spending time in and he now gets to show around someone who was clearly delighted after being told that a place such as Gobang Alley exists.

And while Kavi did wonder how he should find Gilgamesh in the steady flow of people mingling together, it ultimately doesn't prove to be difficult. There is something about Gilgamesh which seems to command attention and the way he's more or less lounging at the street's entrance is a dead giveaway.

So Kavi crosses the distance between them, an easy grin on his face. ]

Hey. You ready to see what Gobang Alley has to offer??

[ Here's to hoping he didn't actually approach a complete stranger who wanted to feed orphaned kittens. ]

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh lights up when he sees that grin. Somehow, he just knows he's found the right person, and greets Kavi accordingly with a friendly grip to his shoulder. Perhaps overly friendly. Overly friendly might just describe how he'd inevitably behave towards Kavi on this little adventure.]

Certainly so! Allow me to afford you a proper introduction.

[Gilgamesh gestures magnificently to himself with a great sweep of his arm, holding his head high.]

I am Gilgamesh, King of Heroes! Now, please. Endear yourself in kind, for I would not travel with a stranger. It is unseemly for one of my status.

[umberly]

[ Oh. Oh. Well, colour Kavi impressed and amused. If he had ever even considered the person he'd talked to suffering from doubt and low self-esteem, Gilgamesh's introduction (With the hand on his shoulder, overly familiar-- Kavi knows how it works. He does it sometimes, too.) rids Kavi of such thoughts.

It seems he will be in the company of a king, if he isn't lying, and for now, Kavi is willing to believe him.

So he bows his head, just a little, to acknowledge Gilgamesh's status and his words. Doing so doesn't hurt his pride in the slightest. ]

I'm Kavi Misra. It's a pleasure to meet you, Gilgamesh, King of Heroes. Is there anything I should keep in mind while I show you around? Places you'd like to avoid?

[ Thought judging by Kavi's first impression, well... Gilgamesh is going to enjoy places where they appreciate him. ]

[babbylon]

Kavi Misra...?

[Hm... that name, coupled with his appearance... Indian origins, perhaps? It's only a fleeting thought, but it does settle into the back of his head somewhere. Perhaps they were truly destined for a good time, since Gilgamesh always accepts pleasantries well and often will return them in kind, even for someone of supposed tyrant status. He laughs a little, and shakes his head, giving every appearance of a casual youth rather than a grizzled ancient.]

Likewise. And by all means, I'd encourage you to be daring, to show me something truly unexpected. I do not offend easily.

[Or at all, at least as far as more sensual pleasures went. He looks to Kavi hopefully, bright-eyed and ready to go.]

Let us be off. Impress me, and I may even treat you to a meal.