[After the talk that Astarion and Fenris had, he cannot help but want to move in as soon as possible. In fact, he had already picked a room close to Astarion so that he could be nearby, perhaps even wake up to that handsome face some mornings. Besides, this giant mansion needed to be filled with more than just the few of them, it was more grand than even the home he had in Kirkwall - if one could call that decrepit, skeleton ridden, hole in the roof mansion a home.
Pumpkin is going to town on her cat tree that he's just set up in his room when he hears the meows of another cat. That wasn't Shadowlily.
Stepping out of the room he looks down the hall but sees no one. Well at first, until he hears the sound of someone coming up the stairs. With that, he makes his way down the hallway to check who it is. Xenk would be his guess as the steps are too heavy with weight and clanky to be Astarion.]
Ah, I see you are moving in as well. Here, let me help you with your belongings.
[Its a joke really, but he does take the Succulent from the man as if he's taking a heavy burden from the other.]
[ Xenk beams to see a familiar face as he climbs up the steps. He cannot say he is surprised to see him, knowing how vital Fenris is to Astarion, and how treasured. It's clear that the many changes Astarion has been through since arriving have allowed him to ask for help, and perhaps even share his affections openly with those he cares about.
All assumptions, of course. Xenk has his own fondness for Fenris, without a doubt. Warmth fills his heart to think that he may get to live surrounded by people he has come to care for. It is a great blessing, whether it be from Tyr or some other god. ]
I am. Astarion was kind enough to ask me to join him here.
[ He hands the potted plant to Fenris and tilts his head in amusement. ]
I am very pleased to see you will live here as well, Fenris.
I only just moved in but maybe ten minutes prior to your arrival. It seems we both made haste after the invitation was given.
[Fenris has a great affection for both Xenk and Astarion. Something akin to love for the latter, something not unlike it for the former. Though he doesn't presume the level of affection each hold for him, only that he trusts his importance to them is the same he holds for them in return. So, instead he keeps his heart open to them both the best he can. He was quite glad with whatever was happening here between himself and these two.]
Come, you likely already know, but Astarion's room is down this hall.
[He feels he knows Xenk well enough to know the man was protective and would likely want to be close to Astarion much the same way Fenris had wanted the same.]
[ Xenk cheer is bright as Fenris leads the way. Of course, he sought a room close to Astarion. As close as possible, so he might keep the man near and help him should he need. It's not to say that he believes Astarion needs him, but Xenk has found that the loneliness of a prolonged existence is eased by the closeness of those one cares for. Having Astarion near, and Fenris besides, would be a great boon.
He shifts the weight of his trunk and continues on, the armor clanking within but clearly not causing him any issue. ]
An impressive house such as this would grow lonely before long. I am glad that Astarion asked us to join him.
As am I. Astarion could start his very own Armada here. There is plenty of room to spare, more than even the three of us could imagine to use.
[It will surely grow lonely even if they are all living together. Even if they invite everyone who may join the crew to live here with them, there will be ample space.
But he was glad to be gifted an invitation, for Astarion to want him here. That he and Xenk would be pleased to have him with them, especially considering most of those Astarion suggested for the group were friends from his world. Fenris almost feels out of place if he didn't feel so secure in the space he occupies in Astarion and Xenk's lives.
He's very careful with the potted plant.]
Here at the end is Astarion, I am to the left. [There was a room to the right of it still.]
Then I shall take the room to the right, if it remains available.
[ He says it with full sincerity. Being at Astarion's right makes sense. He'd be at arm's reach for anything he needs, and able to intervene were he taken by nightmares as he was at times. Well, maybe that nearness is wishful thinking on his part. That assumes the rooms are soundproof, and Xenk knows that Astarion frequents many partners so if the walls are truly so thin, it might prove a problem.
Oh, well. Xenk doesn't need to sleep all that much. He'd take the room regardless, so willing is he to stay close to his dear friend. Who he's in love with. But don't worry about that. The best he can figure is that he cares very deeply for Astarion and Fenris and being so close will please him greatly.
He places his trunk down for a moment to open the door to the room—it's a bit musty, but it should do nicely. All he really needs is a bathroom, which it appears to have. It might actually more spacious than his Paladin apartment, which was plenty for him. ]
Given his talk of ghosts, I expected far worse. This will do nicely.
If it is haunted as he wished for it to be, I have yet to hear anything that would give me reason to believe it so.
[Fenris leans in the doorway with something akin to a smile but it's just him completely at ease for once. Because it feels right to be here, to have Xenk here in this massive home, to be close to Astarion. It feels almost like.. having a home for the first time. He actually cares about having furniture and making his space livable for more than just himself.
But for now he just watches the other man while he explores the musty room. Opening his own windows had started to help with the stale air, so he stands up from where he leans and moves to the windows to do that for Xenk, placing the plant in a nice spot.]
[ Xenk smiles, touched to have such personal care from his good friend. Fenris seems happy here, and that joy warms his heart. There's something right about the comfort, and Fenris' familiar presence in his home. For this would be his new home while here.
He could not ask for better company. The accommodation matters little in comparison. ]
This is all I own. The chest holds my armor and valuables, as well as spare clothes. I have learned to live simply, accustomed to travel as I am.
[ But Xenk looks around, the wide open space does look sparse like this. He could maybe spare some more attention here. He knows well how keen Astarion is to decorate, so it wouldn't be resmiss. ]
Though perhaps I might obtain more while I am here, as I doubt I will have need to move again.
I admit to being similar in such case and only owning what I can carry or leave behind.
[He looks out the window and can see the ocean from here. It was beautiful as he kept his gaze towards the waters.
In his room was only spare clothes, weapon, cat tree, and the items he's accumulated since his time here. The room, like Xenk's own, looked empty and misused, which fit him well enough, but he wanted something that his... friends could visit him and feel at home within his space.]
Perhaps I shall accompany you in that endeavor as I need to do the same. I would have you both feel.. welcome in my space.
[ Xenk joins Fenris by the windows, observing the view with a calm smile. ]
It's enough to make one wish for some luxury, is it not?
[ Xenk turns to Fenris with honest affection, feeling a sense of calm and peace so unlike what he's used to. The breeze on his face, the friends by his side... ]
I would enjoy that very much. Perhaps Astarion could show us where he acquires much of his things—I fear my tastes are far from exacting.
[ A decrepit mansion? There's a story there, Xenk is sure. But maybe it's one for another time. Xenk is enjoying the present far too much to seek answers in the past. ]
Then we shall both have much to learn.
[ Xenk's smile does not falter under Fenris' gaze. He only smiles brighter, leaning down to bridge the gap in their heights. He's tempted to take the kiss himself before Fenris can, but Xenk Yendar would never rob him of the opportunity. Not when Fenris asked to warmly. ]
[Once permission is granted and Xenk leans down to him, Fenris doesn't hesitate to close the distance and take the man's lips in a kiss with his own. He cares about Xenk, more than as a friend, something more akin to how he cares for Astarion yet vastly different at the same time. It was more then friendship he's realizing. His talk with Astarion has got him thinking more about the feelings he shares with others, got him considering in what way he might feel for someone.
The kiss is a little hungry, a little wanting, but not demanding.]
[ Xenk quickly takes to the kiss, an arm reaching around to hold Fenris around his waist. It's easy to fall for such a man. One so kind and honest, and beautiful besides. Xenk knows he has Fenris' trust, and the oath he swore laid his feelings plain as he could speak them -- not clearly, but certain of his intent.
Fenris holds his heart. He is someone Xenk would protect to the ends of the world. Even if he himself will not live forever, the memories they make will stay with Xenk long after his inevitable passing, or indeed their inevitable exit from this world. And yet, fleeting though it may be, Xenk would not trade this moment for anything, nor indeed for anyone. It is different from how he feels about Astarion, but there is beauty in that difference. And love to be found as well.
The comfort of his kiss finds Xenk leaning further, parting his lips and meeting Fenris' hunger with his own. Of course there are benefits to living in the same home. Xenk is not one to indulge in excess, but there's no reason they can't both treat themselves to a warm and inviting welcome. ]
[A warm inviting welcome indeed, as Fenris' own lips part to accept the hunger of the other man, to meet it with his own desire. He knows he holds a part of Xenk's heart, that the man just as surely holds a part of Fenris' own in return. That he would protect this man, care for him, and treat him with the utmost consideration.
Even if these memories are temporary, he know that his soul and heart will carry the memory of this man for his entire life, perhaps longer as the pieces he gives to this man will be carried with him.
He brings his arms up around Xenk's shoulder's pulling him closer as he kisses him soundly, tasting and touching, indulging in the hopes communicating his feelings more clearly than he believe he's done with words as of yet. He thinks Xenk knows, but it doesn't hurt to try and communicate it another way once more.]
[ There's really no room for doubt in Xenk's mind—Fenris communicates his feelings clearly. Xenk will carry him in his heart for however long he shall live, and in so doing will ensure that Fenris' memory lives on forever. As an arbiter for the hearts of his friends, Xenk has always found this burden somewhat heavy, but for Fenris... the weight is light. It is without question.
Xenk allows himself to be touched and touches in kind, his hand rising up Fenris' back to keep a steady hold on him. Xenk recognizes that hunger and affection, for it's a feeling he knows well. When one finds oneself in the arms of someone who will love and care for them, it's easy to melt and open up for them. Words bear little meaning in comparison.
Even for Xenk, who has such trouble letting others see his vulnerabilities, there's no need to fear the safety of Fenris' affection. They are in their home. They are with each other. In this world where great risks and danger seem far off, Xenk could think of no greater indulgence. Save, perhaps, if Astarion were to join them. ]
[It is the thought of Astarion that makes Fenris pull back from the kiss enough to speak. Not for fear of his other heart, but for joy of it. They should greet him before long, indulgence was something they could have anytime now that they lived in close company together.
There was no time limit to this, they could have it in spades and Fenris would be sure to kiss Xenk all the more often for it.]
Come, let us not get too carried away before greeting the master of the house. I am sure he's aware of us yet.
[And likely waiting on them. Might as well not make him wait too long because they got carried away in the indulgence of each other.]
[ They'd be poor guests if they didn't greet their host. And while they're moving here and won't truly be guests for much longer, they still owe Astarion their gratitude for the invitation. Xenk smiles at the mention of their mutual friend, the thought of being surrounded by his two dear friends enough to bring a soft, warm smile to his face.
Living in the same home, with their rooms adjacent to one another means they will have near endless time to be with each other, in every way. Xenk may not be one for urgency, but he sees little reason to delay. His hold on Fenris' waist loosens, his smile filling with mirth at Fenris' words. ]
Indeed. He would be most contrite if we failed to greet him properly. And I do believe we owe him our thanks.
[ As for what counts as a "proper" greeting, that's going to be up to Astarion. ]
["Proper" greetings indeed. He can imagine a number of ways this could go and a number of ways it will likely go, all of which he's deeply interested in. Either way, he would hate to leave Astarion out while they have fun. Perhaps the man will even join them.
With a wisp of lyrium, he steps from Xenk's hold and towards the open doorway.]
Then let us not make him wait any longer and go to pay our respects.
[ Xenk blinks, this being his first time seeing Fenris' innate ability. Wow, he's really only seen Fenris being calm and sweet, huh? He'll have to challenge Fenris to a true spar to get to see his full strength.
Now there's an idea. Though one for another day, perhaps. They have more important matters to attend to right now. ]
The master of the house, is he? Let us not keep him waiting.
[ Xenk follows Fenris out of his room and to the room between both of theirs. Should he knock? He'll knock if someone doesn't just open the door. Was Astarion waiting, or was he perhaps preparing tea as he so often does, when he expects company? ]
[ Yeah, no, Astarion is just standing in his doorway with his arms crossed. What did his elf ears hear? His boys making out without him. Which, I mean, he's 100% for. But you see, the drama of standing here with his arms crossed! The opportunity to complain! ]
[Fenris was too wrapped up in Xenk to notice Astarion until he's turning towards the doorway and coming face to face with the elf in question. He could try to assure his vhenan that they were just about to come for him, that he wouldn't have to wait much longer, but then being dramatic was an attractive look on Astarion.
So instead he looks to Xenk.]
It would seem the master of the house grew tired of waiting for us to finish and came to greet us personally.
[ Xenk's eye twinkle with mirth at the sight of Astarion, so clearly put out yet not at all. Xenk knows Astarion well enough to tell he's joking, which makes it far easier to joke in response. ]
How fortunate for us, to be graced by his presence.
[ Xenk bows slightly, smiling. Master of the house, they said. Astarion would certainly have heard it. It's a title deserving respect! ]
[ Astarion was totally prepared to keep the act going but then Xenk........makes a joke??? His expression softens and then turns curious, looking between the two of them as he tries to figure out whatever this dynamic is.
Still, he's clearly amused by it. ]
This is cute.
[ He holds out his hand so Xenk can kiss it, if they're going to be all dramatic and bowing and shit. He knows how to play this game. ]
[He's pleased to see Xenk play along, it gives him a lot of joy to be in the same room as two people that hold his heart the way they do. He would gladly do anything for both of them and would not hesitate.]
Our humble apologies for making you wait.
[He can't stop the amused smile as he also gives a small bow and holds his hand out for Astarion's hand next, waiting his turn. ]
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Pumpkin is going to town on her cat tree that he's just set up in his room when he hears the meows of another cat. That wasn't Shadowlily.
Stepping out of the room he looks down the hall but sees no one. Well at first, until he hears the sound of someone coming up the stairs. With that, he makes his way down the hallway to check who it is. Xenk would be his guess as the steps are too heavy with weight and clanky to be Astarion.]
Ah, I see you are moving in as well. Here, let me help you with your belongings.
[Its a joke really, but he does take the Succulent from the man as if he's taking a heavy burden from the other.]
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All assumptions, of course. Xenk has his own fondness for Fenris, without a doubt. Warmth fills his heart to think that he may get to live surrounded by people he has come to care for. It is a great blessing, whether it be from Tyr or some other god. ]
I am. Astarion was kind enough to ask me to join him here.
[ He hands the potted plant to Fenris and tilts his head in amusement. ]
I am very pleased to see you will live here as well, Fenris.
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[Fenris has a great affection for both Xenk and Astarion. Something akin to love for the latter, something not unlike it for the former. Though he doesn't presume the level of affection each hold for him, only that he trusts his importance to them is the same he holds for them in return. So, instead he keeps his heart open to them both the best he can. He was quite glad with whatever was happening here between himself and these two.]
Come, you likely already know, but Astarion's room is down this hall.
[He feels he knows Xenk well enough to know the man was protective and would likely want to be close to Astarion much the same way Fenris had wanted the same.]
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[ Xenk cheer is bright as Fenris leads the way. Of course, he sought a room close to Astarion. As close as possible, so he might keep the man near and help him should he need. It's not to say that he believes Astarion needs him, but Xenk has found that the loneliness of a prolonged existence is eased by the closeness of those one cares for. Having Astarion near, and Fenris besides, would be a great boon.
He shifts the weight of his trunk and continues on, the armor clanking within but clearly not causing him any issue. ]
An impressive house such as this would grow lonely before long. I am glad that Astarion asked us to join him.
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[It will surely grow lonely even if they are all living together. Even if they invite everyone who may join the crew to live here with them, there will be ample space.
But he was glad to be gifted an invitation, for Astarion to want him here. That he and Xenk would be pleased to have him with them, especially considering most of those Astarion suggested for the group were friends from his world. Fenris almost feels out of place if he didn't feel so secure in the space he occupies in Astarion and Xenk's lives.
He's very careful with the potted plant.]
Here at the end is Astarion, I am to the left. [There was a room to the right of it still.]
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[ He says it with full sincerity. Being at Astarion's right makes sense. He'd be at arm's reach for anything he needs, and able to intervene were he taken by nightmares as he was at times. Well, maybe that nearness is wishful thinking on his part. That assumes the rooms are soundproof, and Xenk knows that Astarion frequents many partners so if the walls are truly so thin, it might prove a problem.
Oh, well. Xenk doesn't need to sleep all that much. He'd take the room regardless, so willing is he to stay close to his dear friend. Who he's in love with. But don't worry about that. The best he can figure is that he cares very deeply for Astarion and Fenris and being so close will please him greatly.
He places his trunk down for a moment to open the door to the room—it's a bit musty, but it should do nicely. All he really needs is a bathroom, which it appears to have. It might actually more spacious than his Paladin apartment, which was plenty for him. ]
Given his talk of ghosts, I expected far worse. This will do nicely.
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[Fenris leans in the doorway with something akin to a smile but it's just him completely at ease for once. Because it feels right to be here, to have Xenk here in this massive home, to be close to Astarion. It feels almost like.. having a home for the first time. He actually cares about having furniture and making his space livable for more than just himself.
But for now he just watches the other man while he explores the musty room. Opening his own windows had started to help with the stale air, so he stands up from where he leans and moves to the windows to do that for Xenk, placing the plant in a nice spot.]
Do you have anything else you need to bring?
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He could not ask for better company. The accommodation matters little in comparison. ]
This is all I own. The chest holds my armor and valuables, as well as spare clothes. I have learned to live simply, accustomed to travel as I am.
[ But Xenk looks around, the wide open space does look sparse like this. He could maybe spare some more attention here. He knows well how keen Astarion is to decorate, so it wouldn't be resmiss. ]
Though perhaps I might obtain more while I am here, as I doubt I will have need to move again.
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[He looks out the window and can see the ocean from here. It was beautiful as he kept his gaze towards the waters.
In his room was only spare clothes, weapon, cat tree, and the items he's accumulated since his time here. The room, like Xenk's own, looked empty and misused, which fit him well enough, but he wanted something that his... friends could visit him and feel at home within his space.]
Perhaps I shall accompany you in that endeavor as I need to do the same. I would have you both feel.. welcome in my space.
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It's enough to make one wish for some luxury, is it not?
[ Xenk turns to Fenris with honest affection, feeling a sense of calm and peace so unlike what he's used to. The breeze on his face, the friends by his side... ]
I would enjoy that very much. Perhaps Astarion could show us where he acquires much of his things—I fear my tastes are far from exacting.
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It does. And I agree, I will need help to develop some kind of cohesion of style. I lived in a decrepit mansion before this.
[It wasn't a home, it was a place to hide away, to wait for his former master to return to. To ignore how it was falling apart around him literally.
After a moment of gazing at Xenk he asks:]
May I kiss you?
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Then we shall both have much to learn.
[ Xenk's smile does not falter under Fenris' gaze. He only smiles brighter, leaning down to bridge the gap in their heights. He's tempted to take the kiss himself before Fenris can, but Xenk Yendar would never rob him of the opportunity. Not when Fenris asked to warmly. ]
Please. I welcome it.
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The kiss is a little hungry, a little wanting, but not demanding.]
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Fenris holds his heart. He is someone Xenk would protect to the ends of the world. Even if he himself will not live forever, the memories they make will stay with Xenk long after his inevitable passing, or indeed their inevitable exit from this world. And yet, fleeting though it may be, Xenk would not trade this moment for anything, nor indeed for anyone. It is different from how he feels about Astarion, but there is beauty in that difference. And love to be found as well.
The comfort of his kiss finds Xenk leaning further, parting his lips and meeting Fenris' hunger with his own. Of course there are benefits to living in the same home. Xenk is not one to indulge in excess, but there's no reason they can't both treat themselves to a warm and inviting welcome. ]
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Even if these memories are temporary, he know that his soul and heart will carry the memory of this man for his entire life, perhaps longer as the pieces he gives to this man will be carried with him.
He brings his arms up around Xenk's shoulder's pulling him closer as he kisses him soundly, tasting and touching, indulging in the hopes communicating his feelings more clearly than he believe he's done with words as of yet. He thinks Xenk knows, but it doesn't hurt to try and communicate it another way once more.]
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Xenk allows himself to be touched and touches in kind, his hand rising up Fenris' back to keep a steady hold on him. Xenk recognizes that hunger and affection, for it's a feeling he knows well. When one finds oneself in the arms of someone who will love and care for them, it's easy to melt and open up for them. Words bear little meaning in comparison.
Even for Xenk, who has such trouble letting others see his vulnerabilities, there's no need to fear the safety of Fenris' affection. They are in their home. They are with each other. In this world where great risks and danger seem far off, Xenk could think of no greater indulgence. Save, perhaps, if Astarion were to join them. ]
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There was no time limit to this, they could have it in spades and Fenris would be sure to kiss Xenk all the more often for it.]
Come, let us not get too carried away before greeting the master of the house. I am sure he's aware of us yet.
[And likely waiting on them. Might as well not make him wait too long because they got carried away in the indulgence of each other.]
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Living in the same home, with their rooms adjacent to one another means they will have near endless time to be with each other, in every way. Xenk may not be one for urgency, but he sees little reason to delay. His hold on Fenris' waist loosens, his smile filling with mirth at Fenris' words. ]
Indeed. He would be most contrite if we failed to greet him properly. And I do believe we owe him our thanks.
[ As for what counts as a "proper" greeting, that's going to be up to Astarion. ]
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With a wisp of lyrium, he steps from Xenk's hold and towards the open doorway.]
Then let us not make him wait any longer and go to pay our respects.
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Now there's an idea. Though one for another day, perhaps. They have more important matters to attend to right now. ]
The master of the house, is he? Let us not keep him waiting.
[ Xenk follows Fenris out of his room and to the room between both of theirs. Should he knock? He'll knock if someone doesn't just open the door. Was Astarion waiting, or was he perhaps preparing tea as he so often does, when he expects company? ]
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Yes, let's not keep Astarion waiting.
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So instead he looks to Xenk.]
It would seem the master of the house grew tired of waiting for us to finish and came to greet us personally.
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How fortunate for us, to be graced by his presence.
[ Xenk bows slightly, smiling. Master of the house, they said. Astarion would certainly have heard it. It's a title deserving respect! ]
It is an honor, as ever, Astarion.
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Still, he's clearly amused by it. ]
This is cute.
[ He holds out his hand so Xenk can kiss it, if they're going to be all dramatic and bowing and shit. He knows how to play this game. ]
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Our humble apologies for making you wait.
[He can't stop the amused smile as he also gives a small bow and holds his hand out for Astarion's hand next, waiting his turn. ]
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