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

Entry tags:

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

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!]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[Gilgamesh had a feeling Polgar may have been a tough sell to the ever pragmatic Setsuna. But he's also well-aware that Setsuna prioritized the welfare of his comrades above his own, and so would likely tag along wherever they went. Perhaps it was a bit manipulative of him to assume Setsuna would go just because he insisted upon it, but whatever the reason, he looks glad to have Setsuna's tacit approval of the trip.]

Of course. Sound thinking of you, stocking up on the essentials.

[And he'll leave the bulk of the responsibility to him on that front. Gilgamesh didn't need to dabble in such mundane errands. He devours the food almost as fast as he picks it up, yet somehow there's not a single crumb or speck out of place on his face. For eating so vigorously, he's still quite elegant, and all but oblivious to Setsuna's pondering.

Gilgamesh pauses when he's hailed, tilting his head at Setsuna.]

Yes?

[Setsuna never spoke up for no reason. There must be something weighing on his mind, and he can only wonder at what it might be.]

[ Gilgamesh didn't need to worry if it's Setsuna stocking their supplies. He doesn't look like it, but he's thorough and organized. As an independent person and one well-acquainted in survival, he knows what to look for and what they would require on such a long journey. Since he has approval to go after their meal, he'll get started on that whenever they finish here.

But that brings Setsuna right back to a certain thought again: how did he survive if he's this low in mana? His long sleep not long ago, the food they're having right now, and the earlier innocent affections from the King all do wonders for his on-going mana recovery. Once he catches the King's attention again, the Meister hesitates for a moment, if only to wonder how to ask.

He decides with simply asking straightforwardly. ]

What happened back then?

[ Someone healed him from the poison. Was it either Vietnam or Gilgamesh? It didn't feel like their mana, though... And what exactly happened afterwards? ]

[Just as Gilgamesh said, straightforward requests were best. When Setsuna asks him directly, Setsuna receives a direct answer after a moment of careful thought. He'd taken notice of Setsuna's declaration during battle, that there was no God in this world, but that didn't preclude the existence of multiple gods.

In fact, Setsuna would be quite foolish to claim he knew of none, as one had been beside him from the beginning here.]

You were suffering from poison. As it disappeared suddenly, without intervention from any of us, it quite likely occurred as a result of the goddess' intervention. She must've heard some form of plea and acted accordingly—perhaps a prayer you never intended, yet saw fruition anyway.

[Gilgamesh scoops some more rice and veggies into his mouth, and goes on:]

I carried your body out of the temple. You regained consciousness aboard the Airy, where you now rest.

[Gilgamesh takes the opportunity to puff out his chest with pride. As ever, he seems to make light shine even where is none to note, so proudly he speaks of himself and what transpired. Vietnam may have been humble about her role in the rescue, but Gilgamesh very much was not and is very clearly seeking praise.]

It was my arms that led you to safety! Rejoice, Setsuna. The great Gilgamesh looks after you.

[ For a moment, Setsuna lowers his head. Had he heard of such a statement a few years earlier, he would've been filled with anger. To think that a god would answer his prayer now... Now, and not back then. But as the person he is now, he decides not to think much about it anymore. It's in the past, a past he moved on from; there was no need for him to linger in what he's already chosen to let go. It also aids him to consider that this isn't his world. Maybe in his world, God truly didn't exist. But here and among others, it may not be the case. He didn't want to disregard the possibility just because of his personal feelings. If he is going to survive in an unknown world, he needs to consider everything that anything is possible.

Though, as this is a topic he'd rather not dwell on... He doesn't comment about the goddess. He chose to accept it for what it is. Instead, he joins the King in continuing their shared meal; he feeds himself in silence, though he thinks about it one last time. If the goddess healed him, did that mean that she's acknowledging his thoughts back then? The King didn't tell him what happened to Moura... But this is a solace that he can at least have. He decides to believe that the goddess saved that maddened priestess. And that's... enough for him to move on from this.

Setsuna thinks to himself as he listens to the rest of the answer. He really owes Vietnam and Gilgamesh... Although he doesn't know how to repay them, he trusts that these two already know that he'll always continue to fight alongside them; the King especially, as he did declare those very words before him. He has no intention of going back on them. As long as he lives on, he'll keep that promise... He'll keep protecting them, too. Watching Gilgamesh proudly admit his good deeds, the young Meister looks on attentively. He knows what he wants. ]

I see.

[ He's already personally thanked him by words. So this time, he'll thank him by action. He takes the King's unoccupied hand, gently holding on before pulling it up to press against his own chest — where his heart is. He closes his eyes calmly, allowing the additional flow of mana transfer between them. He's again reminded of how low his mana in this moment, but he doesn't want to complain. For now, he doesn't want to think about his condition. Instead, he's doing this to at least reward the King for saving his life. He holds that palm closely, allowing the other to know... This part of him is very much alive because of his actions. ]

If possible, please keep it between the three of us. I... do not wish to worry anyone else.

[I really need to break him of this reticence, Gilgamesh thinks, watching him hang his head and interpreting it as some sign of shame. He's such a beautiful, handsome man, talented in many ways, yet always he draws back in on himself. Gilgamesh simply isn't accustomed to dealing with such individuals, and it makes him feel a bit awkward because of it. Not on account of his own ego, which would never dwindle, but on account of Setsuna's.

Still, if he wants some peace and quiet with his meal, Gilgamesh will provide. He says and does nothing to break the silence, indulging the tranquility of the moment instead. At least Setsuna hadn't refused the food outright, which had been his fear. Then everything would've seemed like one big waste. On occasion he nudges certain bits of food towards Setsuna, clearly offering, but otherwise keeps to himself.

However, he can't help it; when Setsuna chimes in with I see and a brighter look, he perks up at once.]

Yes, yes! No need to thank me, I...

[Oh. Setsuna acts with unexpected boldness, and he glances at him a bit wide-eyed when his hand's grabbed. Not out of dislike, but of surprise. He watches transfixed as his fingers are guided over the space of his heart, and he's once again reminded of why he likes him so much: he's so peaceful with his eyes shut, breathing gently. To look upon him has him calmer by proxy. The mana transfer feels warm, brings a slight flush to his cheeks.

Taking this as a sign that contact will be welcomed, Gilgamesh draws close, until their sides and shoulders touch.]

I would not tell anyone. I want—

[He wants many things he dares not mention aloud. One slips out anyway.]

I want to hold you. If it is permitted.

[ Soon enough Setsuna reopens his eyes, in time to witness those unexpected gestures in front of him. For the first few seconds, he stays still as he observes Gilgamesh; each awkward movement, the endearing perk, and that unforeseen surprise. Right away, he thinks, what's with this? The King is displaying more unusual sides again. Setsuna recalls upon his own words, that he didn't ask anything more about this person as they will be fighting together. This day, this moment, he's glad that he received confirmation that he wasn't wrong. He's still getting to know this King, and so what he's seeing before his eyes in this instance... He'll be sure to remember from now on, too.

It truly is peculiar, though. Who knew the proud King of Uruk is capable of reacting like this? Setsuna couldn't help letting out a whisper of amusement, an almost soundless hum that is undoubtedly laughter. This person's straightforwardness reminds him of a fallen comrade... An equally proud person that disappeared from this world not long ago. But he didn't want to compare the two of them; that is unfair. They're separate people, they lead contrasting lives. And of course, they both gave him different memories. One of them is right here with him, continuing to give him more and more. The food across his lap is only among the many.

Setsuna knew it too well. If Gilgamesh didn't help him back there, he wouldn't be having this meal today or would he feel that warmth so close to him now. He has no reason to decline, especially considering such an innocent request. Rather than respond vocally, Setsuna reaches for the King's other hand. With their hands together, he allows a reassuring compression between their palms. Once again, he lowers his head to rest against the shoulder before his. He thinks about everything in silence. There's always so many people who constantly supports him... It isn't the first time that someone saved his life, yet he can never get used to it. Although he strives to improve himself so it wouldn't happen again, it can't be helped. As long as he's fighting, he knows that this will keep happening.

Still, it didn't have to be one way. Setsuna doesn't say it, but he hopes his actions up to this very day have proven it. He will do the same for the people that care for him. He will keep protecting and believing in this King. ]

[He laughed...?

He laughed. He's sure of it, sure he heard it just now. It was only the faintest sound, nothing boisterous like his own tended to be, but it was certain, and it was for him. It makes his heart swell with pride in his chest, makes him want to announce to the world yes, this is my subject and parade him around in full colors as one would a favorite pet. Setsuna disliking such honors may be the only thing preventing him from doing so; he supposes he'll have to revel privately, in this space just for them.

Gilgamesh allows his other hand to be taken. There's contrast here, too, pale skin against dark. Setsuna couldn't be called anything like soft, as Gilgamesh understood he was a killer once, but it's hard not to be endeared by his touch. It's so earnest, always coming from a place of honesty. It may be why Gilgamesh favors him so much, because unlike many others in his life, he knows Setsuna would never deceive him, would never so much as breathe an untruthful word. He can be trusted with almost anything, even the welfare of a single flower in the snow.

As Setsuna's head sinks to his shoulder, Gilgamesh's chin finds the top of it, the upper half of his body nestling around. Like a lion protecting its mate. Setsuna almost reminds him of a tiger, with those eyes that could turn fierce gold at a moment's notice. A lion and a tiger... yes, he quite fancied that pairing. It would do.]

Yours was a life worth saving. For how many I've taken, for how many I may take still...

[Gilgamesh squeezes his hands back, falls into the hypnotic flow of mana that's overwhelming his senses.]

I will never regret this life I've come to know.

[ This is a moment that Setsuna knows won't come around often, if it ever would again. None of them have an idea when they would be separated. No different from a flower that wilts easily, the time that a single person can be together with another is also temporal. For that reason, he stays still. He wants to remember this King, just as he remembers all the faces that he meets. He's always thankful for every fleeting repose in his life, especially as someone on the journey for lasting peace. He doesn't want to take any of them for granted.

Falling into further lull, Setsuna allows their shared comfort to recover his depleted mana. All this time, he keeps his eyes shut. He leans forward just a little more. He doesn't need to look at Gilgamesh to know how he's feeling, so instead he allows himself to be flooded with thoughts. It's been two months... Although he has almost never said anything about himself, this King is always willing to understand him. Maybe... maybe that was one of the reasons why he wanted to return the same sentiments. No, it certainly is. Gilgamesh didn't need to understand him. He never cared about being understood. Though, whenever someone does... he can't ever deny it; he's blissful. These actions never seem to be enough to express his appreciation.

Even more when he hears words like that. He could feel his heart tighten all over again. ]

I will never regret it, either. I have always just lived on to fulfill in what I believe in, and I will never acknowledge any more regrets.

[ So Gilgamesh shouldn't, either. Setsuna is relieved to hear him say those words. He hopes that the King won't forget them, though he has faith this is the case. ]

I am glad, that we have met.

[Gilgamesh tries hard not to smile. Really, he's been too vulnerable with this man already. What would the others think to see the great and tyrannical Gilgamesh gently embracing another? But he also realizes it's too late to pull back now. He he become endeared with this beautiful subject of his. Whether it is out of loneliness or simply because he longs for a hint of home, he will remain with this person for some time to come.

And maybe he's even warming up to it, the idea of a knight. Someone fighting for him, defending his person and his honor. He daydreams a little without realizing it, using the food as an excuse not to speak. Yet it is obvious: the King is pleased, and all because of Setsuna.

The rest of the food gets finished in short order. Gilgamesh cracks a wide yawn, and without really thinking about it, snuggles up to Setsuna.]

Ah, I've become so sleepy... perhaps I ate a bit too much.

[Still, even if he's feeling lazy, it's his responsibility to clean up, so he starts packing up the boxes.]

You said you were going out? I may nap. My food and my company alike were too good to handle.

[ Even if Gilgamesh should smile, Setsuna wouldn't be able to see it; he's rather content with staying still. He remains so even as the King moves closer, though he eventually shifts to face elsewhere while continuing their shared meal. His eyes would tend to always look out there, reflected by the distant skies before them. Crimson and gold... The colors of the sunset, much like that day, much like this person beside him. Why is it always during the sunset?

But those golden colors before them will not last long. Soon enough, the darkness will blanket the area. Setsuna nods to acknowledge Gilgamesh's words, intending to head out before the sunset is completely over. He was hoping the mana exchange would finish before then... But it's not quite enough, still feeling his waist area pulling him down. He moves a hand to hold over his covered wound, part of him wishing that cell-regeneration equipment were available. Though he doesn't complain as usual, choosing to bury the useless thought at the back of his mind. In place, there's something else that he could ask for. ]

King... May I trouble you one more time?

[Even though Gilgamesh isn't privy to the finer details of his life—that Setsuna was the pilot of a powerful machine, part of an organization called Celestial Being that oversaw the world, went beyond the stars in a very literal sense—he nonetheless knows that he belonged in the sky. Watching from high above, beyond humanity, beyond a homeland. It's evident in how thoughtful he is with every sunset, no matter how many times he's seen one. It never seems to matter; he always seems so awe-inspired by everything. In a sense, Gilgamesh envies him for it. For that innocence, even if he'd claim to the contrary.

When he's hailed this time, Gilgamesh tells him, quite sternly:]

Now, and from this point forward, you have my permission. None of this "may I trouble you" business; just ask.

[It is an uphill battle with Setsuna, coaxing such directness from him, but one he's willing to fight. He prefers that those close to him speak freely, as it is a sign of mutual respect. He may be a King, but Setsuna's opinions matter, too—though, given his stubbornness, only to a certain degree. He's still rather set in his ways.]

That aside... what might I do for you?

[He has a feeling he can guess what's troubling him. His eyes wander to the wound, as well, the slightest bit concerned.]

[ Hm... Setsuna still has to get used to that, too. Getting scolded for being too formal, when living in distance is his way of life. It doesn't matter much lately, considering the public's recent acceptance for their organization after the events from two years ago. But facing unfamiliar experiences and concepts requires time to adjust to. He's a little speechless when told to drop the formality, though it was fleeting.

If there's anyone who can adjust to change, it's undoubtedly Setsuna. He will try. Surely it can't be hard for someone like him, who has a reputation for being too reckless at times. Still... as someone who only knows how to fight, it's harder to apply his directness in the everyday life than in matters related to war; but he will do what he can. For his King, he would not mind. ]

Yes...

[ A light confirmation that he will. And once Gilgamesh asks him, he follows through with it. He pauses only for a second, then says it. Rather, he gestures it. He lifts his hand back up, indicating for the King to lean down closer. ]

[It was a learning process. Just as Gilgamesh had learned to be gentler by planting that flower, Setsuna would learn to be braver in this way, by looking his King in the eye, by always saying what he means and meaning what he says. It will not happen overnight, but eventually, Setsuna will hold his head high. Not as high as Gilgamesh, but high enough that everyone could see he was proud of himself and what he'd achieved.

This, however... this situation's becoming a bit prickly. Not by any fault of Setsuna's, but there's only so close Gilgamesh could come before he took it as a sign of initiating intimacy. Once, he dreamed of taking Setsuna to his bed in a very provocative manner, but he had since decided he would work for the privilege rather than force it. If it was something Setsuna wanted, it was something Gilgamesh would earn, as there was greater pleasure in the chase than in the prize.

Baby steps. Maybe just a little won't hurt.]

Yes?

[His voice is slightly breathless. He does as requested, leans down and draws their foreheads together. Now, they stare eye-to-eye.]

Speak to me. What pleases you?

[ "Speak to me." Most likely not. Although trained to adjust to the most extreme situations, matters that concern his actual being—his real self, is still a distant figure. Through elapsed time, he's undoubtedly gotten better even prior to arriving in this world. But in the end, he's still limited — of known comfort, of uncertainty beyond familiar habits. Regardless, he is willing to learn. That is part of the reason why he's always seeking for answers... He is aware that he might require himself to be closer to others to find what he is looking for. To understand those around him, even if he wasn't an Innovator... He's always wanted that from the very beginning.

After their foreheads touch, Setsuna courageously continues to trust. Without his body flinching, without his head turning away, without his brows furrowing in hostility, he remains with a fluid pair of darkened eyes. He stares back, maybe by chance overpowering the gaze before his own. Underneath all of his silence, his intensity is here within him. His eyes focus, in a split second those rare golden irises flash against the crimson pair in front of him. He's asserting the King in front of him, wondering what would happen if he returns a gesture forward. So slowly, he shifts on... Just a little onward. Maybe through an unsaid whisper, he apologizes.

And right after, his hand moves to hold the King's uniform. Tugging him down further, Setsuna meanwhile kneels up to plant his own lips against that unguarded, pale brow. He stays for a while, allowing the final rush of mana to fill the two of them. It's then that he moves away, sliding off the bed to stand on his own feet. His hand moves against his own uniform, straightening it as he looks away like the usual. ]

I will... see you later, then.

[ My King. And that's all that he says before walking ahead, leaving the room. ]

[Those eyes... Gilgamesh would never be frightened by them, but they still bring him to shudder when they ring with gold. When they stare back at him, so powerfully, in a way men simply weren't meant to understand. Even as a god, if only for a moment he feels outclassed. He does not bow to them, would not bow before anyone, yet he's subdued to the point of stillness. Fascinated, though also unnerved.

Setsuna could apologize for it, but he wouldn't accept it. It feels like the beginning of familiar steps; he's held, Gilgamesh holds him in turn. His pupils dilate with interest. He's kissed. Is he reading the air wrong? What does he want, why did he not say? Was it only for mana? His body shifts, ready to take the lead in the dance he knows best, but it's too late. Setsuna pulls away from him. He mutters some faint farewell, and then he's off, and that Gilgamesh leaves alone in bed when not moments before there had been a very handsome man beside him, and he had been so close—]

...damn.

[No good. Setsuna's gone, he won't hear it. It tastes like a loss. But that kiss—Gilgamesh reaches up to the spot where those lips had been, and wonders aloud:]

I wonder if I should tell him.

[Tell him that it was all well and good, to think of him his King... but someday, inevitably, Gilgamesh would be looking to cash that check.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

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

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject