[ Xenk knocks on Fenris' door on a chilly winter's morning. The practice of trading gifts isn't something that's hugely popular in the Forgotten Realms, but he's had enough contact with people here to know you're supposed to give gifts to your loved ones.
And Fenris is surely that.
So Xenk actually has two items -- holding one in each hand. In his left is... a jar of oil. With a blue bow on it. Fearing this would be too simple, he has a second present, in his right hand. It's an envelope-sized box along with what is obviously a ream of paper. Also wrapped in a bow. It's festive? He hopes so, at least. ]
[Fenris had gone shopping for solstice gifts for both of his lovers, but he hesitated to give them to them. Not because he thought they were poor gifts, but because he thought perhaps they would not like them. He was used to working off a solstice list, not his own idea of what his lovers might like.
In honestly, he's realizing how little he knows them by doing this. Perhaps he should not rely so heavily on their willingness to impart information and actually ask questions.
When the knock comes to his door, he opens it with a nod, eyeing the things in the man's hands as he steps aside to let him in. Were those gifts?]
[ They make quite the pair, fretting as they were over something meant to simply be a kind gesture. Though Xenk is much better at hiding his concerns and fears by simply barreling through them. He's always an open book, but it's a little hard to read those pages when the book is right in your face, to be fair. ]
Indeed! I am told there is a practice in which one rewards their loved ones with presents as the year draws to its close.
[ He holds them out. ]
I, ah... The oil is for your armor and weapons. I thought to give you something of use, but as gifts go, I thought it plain. Which is why I obtained a second. One you may unwrap.
[Fenris huffs an amused sound at that, because he's not sure how he knows the solstice is to reward your loved ones with a gift, but regardless he will take it. Maybe it was more of a Faerun custom.
He takes the oil first, looking it over with a smile before setting it down and taking the second gift, carefully unwrapping it and looking at what it was. His eyebrows go up at it.]
A calligraphy set? Thank you, I will attempt to do right by it and use it to write more letters. Hopefully I will continue to get better under your tutelage.
[ You can actually blame Daria, Faerun has a moon festival but only Selunites really practice it.
But Xenk went as all out as he could, with a silver pen nib, flowing feather pen, and letters as well. The reams of paper were extra -- for practice. ]
I thought it might prove to be something of an investment, as I know you will continue to improve. [ He smiles, leaning into that kiss and reaching down to stroke a hand through Fenris' hair. ] And I have so enjoyed our lessons. Let us hope this new year will bring with it many more.
[His hair was getting longer, he needed to cut it honestly, but he leans into the touch, eyes closing for a moment.]
Yes, I hope it will. It's beautiful, thank you. I have something for you as well.
[He steps away, picking up the calligraphy set and taking it to his desk where he pulls out a couple items. One looks to be a coin and the other a small box.]
In Thedas we celebrate the solstice by making lists and giving gifts, but not always was it easy to give gifts as a slave... I hope these will suffice.
[Walking back over to Xenk he hands him first a coin]
This is a Coin of Exceptional Healing, it is said to hold the power to break curses, I thought maybe it might be something of use to you.
[Then he hands him the other box, when he opens it inside is a bracelet of gold, simple enough but on it is a few beads, most are gold like the ones Xenk wears in his hair but there was a couple that are silver with red or green gemstones embedded in them.]
[ It's beautiful hair, Xenk would tell him if he really asked him. But he could write plenty of letters about all the ways he admires Fenris' body. (And more!) ]
Oh?
[ Xenk stands back and waits for Fenris to return. The coin he hands him is simple, but it's so incredibly thoughtful that Xenk holds it in both hands and needs a moment, first, before returning his attention back to Fenris.
He's unsure if the coin would even work, but just the depth of thought that went into it makes his heart soar. Fenris follows this up with a bracelet, with beautiful inlaid gems and gold to match his armor. And now, to match the necklace Astarion had gifted him as well. ]
It's beautiful, Fenris. Any gifts you grant me are worth more than any dungeon's worth of treasure.
[ Xenk carefully puts the bracelet on, before leaning back down to kiss Fenris once more. ]
I fear a mere "thank you" is not enough to explain how touched I am. Truly.
[Fenris is glad both gifts are accepted. He was unsure about the coin, it's why he got the bracelet too, but he had risked his life when he heard about the coin and his ability to break curses, he knew he needed to get one for Xenk.
Of course he came back with a handful of them, but he would later figure out what to do with the rest.
Gladly, he kisses the man back.]
A mere thank you is more than enough.
[He strokes the man's cheek softly.]
The gifts you have given me are useful beyond measure and mean the world to me, I am glad what I had to offer in return was sufficient.
[ Xenk pockets the coin. It feels like too big a risk to try it now -- the disappointment if it doesn't work would surely sour the moment, and Xenk would rather avoid that after receiving something so kind. ]
Then I must thank you, dear one. I will wear this bracelet and think of you every moment that I do.
[ He smiles, leaning into that touch. Xenk, of course, only thinks of useful gifts. But he's happy to have received such beautiful gifts from his two lovers. ]
The coin, I will treasure and attempt another day. Unless you wished to test it with me?
[ That's right... it would be easier than doing it alone, wouldn't it? Xenk has people he can rely on now. Those who love him, with whom he can share those fears. ]
[Fenris is more of a useful gift person, someone who doesn't wear jewelry or carry around things that aren't useful to him, so really, Xenk's gifts are perfect for him. He was glad to have them. Jewelry is something that would be lost on him unfortunately.
He pauses when the offer to test it now is upon them. But he finds himself also unsure. What if it doesn't work? What if it only works once?]
Ah.. it is your gift to use as you please. I admit to not knowing if it will work at all or how long lasting if it does, but should it, I have a number more that are welcome to be yours.
[ They share that in common, so Xenk will be happy to hear it. Though in truth any gift from someone he holds dear will find itself to his person one way or another.
Xenk takes Fenris' hand in his own, twining their fingers. This is a big thing Fenris is offering him, if it truly turns out to work. ]
Even a temporary reprieve from my curse would be a great boon to me. Though unless the mark on my face lightens, there is no pleasant way to test the progress of my curse...
[ And because he trusts Fenris, and because he is trying to be more open with his feelings, Xenk finally admits: ]
It would comfort me greatly if you were to aid me in this. But know that I understand this is no light thing that I ask you. You are of course, free to refuse.
[Fenris hadn't been sure he was over stepping with the curse thing, he didn't want to imply something was wrong with Xenk when there is not. He merely wished to help, so the fact the gift of the coin was so well received was heartening. That Xenk wanted a reprieve from his curse... Fenris would go back to that island again if needed.
Squeezing Xenk's hand in reassurance, he gives a nod.]
Then it would be my honor to be here with you while you try this. To aid you how I am able.
[ Xenk's opinion of his curse waxes and wanes -- he is where he is thanks to it, but it brands him as something inhuman, and something that can possibly be controlled by those with nercomantic magics. While his Oath to Tyr keeps him guarded from the worst of it, the Ghoul Moon had not been kind to him, and had only reminded him of how dangerous his curse can truly be.
He had not lost control, but what if he had? Would he have sacrificed his friends, in support of a monster who is not even here? It's an uncertainty that troubles him, and certainly moreso now that he has those he loves. ]
Thank you. [ Xenk squeezes back. ] I know you do not judge me for my curse, and for that I am quite grateful. Yet I do not know who I would be, had I not been cursed so. It is a great conflict within me. I often find myself concerned over the danger I might pose, were another Ghoul Moon to take place.
[ All that nonsense with the tablet really messed him up, in other words. But he pulls out the coin and examines it, turning it over in his palm. ]
[Fenris listens before reaching up to gently caress the mark on Xenk's forhead. He can understand that, in a way he doesn't remember a life before his own markings, doesn't know whether to be grateful to them for the way it led him in his life or hate them and wish he was just like any other Tevinter Slave...
They were his now though.]
I would say you have us both to stop you if a ghoul moon was upon us again, but unfortunately, I believe I will be alone in trying to stop you both..
[The hazards of being boyfriends with two undead guys.]
To be honest, I do not know. When the curse of the island was upon me, trying to drive me to madness, just being near and holding the coins in hand was enough to free me of it.
[ Xenk leans into that touch, comforted but grimacing at the thought. Fenris could perhaps take one of them (in a fight) but both would be difficult. Perhaps Xenk owed it to the man to have an alternative, if worse came to worst... ]
I would hear more of your tale in obtaining these coins... I was unaware that you took on such a quest. [ Corsair stuff? Must be. ] But first... I will pray this works, least of all in part. I would not abandon you in a time of need, however dire.
[ He closes his fingers over the coin, squeezing it lightly and closing his eyes. If it bears some kind of enchantment, or fix, it isn't immediately apparent. But Xenk's curse is such that it's a bit hard to tell sometimes. So even if the coin begins to take effect, it won't be immediately clear. ]
Has ought changed?
[ He opens them, looking down at Fenris again. His mark might be a little lighter, but it's changing to slow for it to be noticeable, really. ]
If so, I do not see it. Your curse is one that is subtle to tell.
[He squints at the mark on Xenk's forehead. Maybe... but he does not want to say so and be wrong, it would be difficult to hurt the man with hope if there was none to actually be found.]
Come, let us find a mirror. You would likely better tell than me.
[Still holding Xenk's hand, he leads him out of his room since he has no mirrors, but there should be one in the nearby bathroom.]
[ Xenk nods. He does not have particular hopes for the longevity of the coin, but he is open-minded about it. He wants to try -- if only in times of danger. (And perhaps to help Astarion, if it clears up his blood.)
Xenk follows Fenris to the bathroom -- he takes note of the fact that Fenris has no mirrors, but doesn't mention it. Astarion doesn't either, though his reasons are practical in nature.
Something for later, perhaps. For right now, Xenk stands up to the mirror and examines his mark. It does appear somewhat faded, though not by much. Would it grow fainter, the longer the coin was held? Still, Xenk allows himself some relief. Fenris said there were more coins. If more than one was needed, then that was just as well. ]
It appears somewhat lighter.
[ He smiles, squeezing Fenris' hand. It's lightening too slowly to see, but it is noticeable. He turns back to Fenris, still smiling wide. Fuck it, he closes the distance in and kisses him. ]
I know not if it will fully fade, but this is promising indeed. Thank you, Fenris.
[ And less painful than what Xenk was going to suggest -- which involved drawing blood until it was pure red, as opposed to thick and dark. ]
[So it was lighter, he thought it might be but it had been hard to tell. He does not usually look at the man's curse mark so he did not think he was a fair judge of it.
The kiss takes him by surprise but he smiles into it, kissing Xenk back. He was glad it was something, something more than nothing at least. He had a handful of coins, Xenk could have all of them as far as he was concerned. He didn't particularly need them for anything other than to be prepared.]
It may not cure the curse, but perhaps it will stay it some should worse come to worse.
[A pause, before he raises an eyebrow at him.]
Perhaps even allow you the pleasure of Astarion's bite.
[ Even limited in scope, Xenk would take any time he could manage. In the comfort of his home, surrounded by his lovers -- he could think of no safer place, and no better situation than to cure his curse to better enjoy himself with them. Even should he need to keep gripping the coin, even should his mark not entirely fade, it would be the best of all outcomes if it granted him even a moment's reprieve. ]
This is my hope as well.
[ Xenk smirks, meeting Fenris' suggestion with a knowing glint of affection. ]
That I should be so lucky. I'm afraid all of our prior attempts have eneded poorly, on account of my cursed blood.
I can imagine cursed blood is not particularly palatable, though Astarion seems to enjoy the lyrium in my own.
[He was glad to be a regular source of nourishment for his lover. While he didn't particularly seek it out, he took pleasure from the act and the bite of his lover. He was glad to be available in such a way for his vhenan.]
Do you wish to see if your blood runs clean? It would be painful, but I would not wish for you to do so alone and risk yourself while your curse is lessened.
[ Xenk smirks saying it though. It obviously doesn't hurt his feelings for it to be so -- it's nothing he can control. Xenk too would happily offer his blood, especially since he heals so quickly, but when you're cursed you're cursed. Still, he has daydreamed about it. Anyone with a vampire lover would. ]
I am willing to try. And you need not worry -- even should my good health be reduced by the temporary dissipation of the curse, I am still capable of healing myself. Tyr's blessing has yet to elude me.
[Fenris can't help the small chuckle that leaves him because he can hear Astarion say it. Honestly, he would be more surprised if Astarion said something differently from that. It suits the elf.]
Good, then you will be able to treat yourself should anything happen.. I do not know any magics, though I am good at first aid should it become necessary.
[Pulling out a dagger, he pauses at the sink to wash the blade, not wanting to take any risks with his lover's health, before he offers the pummel first.]
[ Astarion wouldn't be Astarion if he wasn't painfully honest at times. Though Xenk nods at his admission. ]
Thank you, Fenris. First aid is a vital skill, especially where magic is limited.
[ For all that Xenk seems to have a near-limitless supply of Lay on Hands charges, it is limited per day. If one of them should get injured, it shouldn't a problem. But both would be... problematic, to be sure. ]
Given that one of my hands is presently occupied with the coin, this may be the best option. Though I would not wish to give you an undue burden. You need not do this, if you do not wish to.
[He leans forward to kiss the man's forearm, before flipping the dagger and catching it by the pummel. Carefully guiding the arm over the sink, Fenris pauses before counting.]
On three... One. Two. [And before he says three, he slices clean into the man's arm, not going slow as to not draw out the pain but to make it one sharp strike.]
[ Xenk smiles at the kiss, eyes bright with affection even as Xenk slides the blade over his arm. The cut is quick and clean, the sting of pain sharper than Xenk is accustomed to.
He flinches, more surprised by how vivid the pain felt than the depth of it. The blood that flows from it is a healthy-looking bright red, and though it is slow to coagulate, it's far lighter than Xenk's usual wounds. ]
Fenris! Look!
[ He is way more excited about the fact that he's bleeding than any normal person would be, needless to say. ]
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later december; action
And Fenris is surely that.
So Xenk actually has two items -- holding one in each hand. In his left is... a jar of oil. With a blue bow on it. Fearing this would be too simple, he has a second present, in his right hand. It's an envelope-sized box along with what is obviously a ream of paper. Also wrapped in a bow. It's festive? He hopes so, at least. ]
Fenris! Are you in, dear one?
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In honestly, he's realizing how little he knows them by doing this. Perhaps he should not rely so heavily on their willingness to impart information and actually ask questions.
When the knock comes to his door, he opens it with a nod, eyeing the things in the man's hands as he steps aside to let him in. Were those gifts?]
Are.. those for me?
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Indeed! I am told there is a practice in which one rewards their loved ones with presents as the year draws to its close.
[ He holds them out. ]
I, ah... The oil is for your armor and weapons. I thought to give you something of use, but as gifts go, I thought it plain. Which is why I obtained a second. One you may unwrap.
[ It's a calligraphy set!! ]
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He takes the oil first, looking it over with a smile before setting it down and taking the second gift, carefully unwrapping it and looking at what it was. His eyebrows go up at it.]
A calligraphy set? Thank you, I will attempt to do right by it and use it to write more letters. Hopefully I will continue to get better under your tutelage.
[Setting it down, he kisses Xenk in thanks.]
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But Xenk went as all out as he could, with a silver pen nib, flowing feather pen, and letters as well. The reams of paper were extra -- for practice. ]
I thought it might prove to be something of an investment, as I know you will continue to improve. [ He smiles, leaning into that kiss and reaching down to stroke a hand through Fenris' hair. ] And I have so enjoyed our lessons. Let us hope this new year will bring with it many more.
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Yes, I hope it will. It's beautiful, thank you. I have something for you as well.
[He steps away, picking up the calligraphy set and taking it to his desk where he pulls out a couple items. One looks to be a coin and the other a small box.]
In Thedas we celebrate the solstice by making lists and giving gifts, but not always was it easy to give gifts as a slave... I hope these will suffice.
[Walking back over to Xenk he hands him first a coin]
This is a Coin of Exceptional Healing, it is said to hold the power to break curses, I thought maybe it might be something of use to you.
[Then he hands him the other box, when he opens it inside is a bracelet of gold, simple enough but on it is a few beads, most are gold like the ones Xenk wears in his hair but there was a couple that are silver with red or green gemstones embedded in them.]
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Oh?
[ Xenk stands back and waits for Fenris to return. The coin he hands him is simple, but it's so incredibly thoughtful that Xenk holds it in both hands and needs a moment, first, before returning his attention back to Fenris.
He's unsure if the coin would even work, but just the depth of thought that went into it makes his heart soar. Fenris follows this up with a bracelet, with beautiful inlaid gems and gold to match his armor. And now, to match the necklace Astarion had gifted him as well. ]
It's beautiful, Fenris. Any gifts you grant me are worth more than any dungeon's worth of treasure.
[ Xenk carefully puts the bracelet on, before leaning back down to kiss Fenris once more. ]
I fear a mere "thank you" is not enough to explain how touched I am. Truly.
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Of course he came back with a handful of them, but he would later figure out what to do with the rest.
Gladly, he kisses the man back.]
A mere thank you is more than enough.
[He strokes the man's cheek softly.]
The gifts you have given me are useful beyond measure and mean the world to me, I am glad what I had to offer in return was sufficient.
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Then I must thank you, dear one. I will wear this bracelet and think of you every moment that I do.
[ He smiles, leaning into that touch. Xenk, of course, only thinks of useful gifts. But he's happy to have received such beautiful gifts from his two lovers. ]
The coin, I will treasure and attempt another day. Unless you wished to test it with me?
[ That's right... it would be easier than doing it alone, wouldn't it? Xenk has people he can rely on now. Those who love him, with whom he can share those fears. ]
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He pauses when the offer to test it now is upon them. But he finds himself also unsure. What if it doesn't work? What if it only works once?]
Ah.. it is your gift to use as you please. I admit to not knowing if it will work at all or how long lasting if it does, but should it, I have a number more that are welcome to be yours.
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Xenk takes Fenris' hand in his own, twining their fingers. This is a big thing Fenris is offering him, if it truly turns out to work. ]
Even a temporary reprieve from my curse would be a great boon to me. Though unless the mark on my face lightens, there is no pleasant way to test the progress of my curse...
[ And because he trusts Fenris, and because he is trying to be more open with his feelings, Xenk finally admits: ]
It would comfort me greatly if you were to aid me in this. But know that I understand this is no light thing that I ask you. You are of course, free to refuse.
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Squeezing Xenk's hand in reassurance, he gives a nod.]
Then it would be my honor to be here with you while you try this. To aid you how I am able.
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He had not lost control, but what if he had? Would he have sacrificed his friends, in support of a monster who is not even here? It's an uncertainty that troubles him, and certainly moreso now that he has those he loves. ]
Thank you. [ Xenk squeezes back. ] I know you do not judge me for my curse, and for that I am quite grateful. Yet I do not know who I would be, had I not been cursed so. It is a great conflict within me. I often find myself concerned over the danger I might pose, were another Ghoul Moon to take place.
[ All that nonsense with the tablet really messed him up, in other words. But he pulls out the coin and examines it, turning it over in his palm. ]
Do you know how it works?
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They were his now though.]
I would say you have us both to stop you if a ghoul moon was upon us again, but unfortunately, I believe I will be alone in trying to stop you both..
[The hazards of being boyfriends with two undead guys.]
To be honest, I do not know. When the curse of the island was upon me, trying to drive me to madness, just being near and holding the coins in hand was enough to free me of it.
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I would hear more of your tale in obtaining these coins... I was unaware that you took on such a quest. [ Corsair stuff? Must be. ] But first... I will pray this works, least of all in part. I would not abandon you in a time of need, however dire.
[ He closes his fingers over the coin, squeezing it lightly and closing his eyes. If it bears some kind of enchantment, or fix, it isn't immediately apparent. But Xenk's curse is such that it's a bit hard to tell sometimes. So even if the coin begins to take effect, it won't be immediately clear. ]
Has ought changed?
[ He opens them, looking down at Fenris again. His mark might be a little lighter, but it's changing to slow for it to be noticeable, really. ]
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[He squints at the mark on Xenk's forehead. Maybe... but he does not want to say so and be wrong, it would be difficult to hurt the man with hope if there was none to actually be found.]
Come, let us find a mirror. You would likely better tell than me.
[Still holding Xenk's hand, he leads him out of his room since he has no mirrors, but there should be one in the nearby bathroom.]
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Xenk follows Fenris to the bathroom -- he takes note of the fact that Fenris has no mirrors, but doesn't mention it. Astarion doesn't either, though his reasons are practical in nature.
Something for later, perhaps. For right now, Xenk stands up to the mirror and examines his mark. It does appear somewhat faded, though not by much. Would it grow fainter, the longer the coin was held? Still, Xenk allows himself some relief. Fenris said there were more coins. If more than one was needed, then that was just as well. ]
It appears somewhat lighter.
[ He smiles, squeezing Fenris' hand. It's lightening too slowly to see, but it is noticeable. He turns back to Fenris, still smiling wide. Fuck it, he closes the distance in and kisses him. ]
I know not if it will fully fade, but this is promising indeed. Thank you, Fenris.
[ And less painful than what Xenk was going to suggest -- which involved drawing blood until it was pure red, as opposed to thick and dark. ]
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The kiss takes him by surprise but he smiles into it, kissing Xenk back. He was glad it was something, something more than nothing at least. He had a handful of coins, Xenk could have all of them as far as he was concerned. He didn't particularly need them for anything other than to be prepared.]
It may not cure the curse, but perhaps it will stay it some should worse come to worse.
[A pause, before he raises an eyebrow at him.]
Perhaps even allow you the pleasure of Astarion's bite.
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This is my hope as well.
[ Xenk smirks, meeting Fenris' suggestion with a knowing glint of affection. ]
That I should be so lucky. I'm afraid all of our prior attempts have eneded poorly, on account of my cursed blood.
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[He was glad to be a regular source of nourishment for his lover. While he didn't particularly seek it out, he took pleasure from the act and the bite of his lover. He was glad to be available in such a way for his vhenan.]
Do you wish to see if your blood runs clean? It would be painful, but I would not wish for you to do so alone and risk yourself while your curse is lessened.
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[ Xenk smirks saying it though. It obviously doesn't hurt his feelings for it to be so -- it's nothing he can control. Xenk too would happily offer his blood, especially since he heals so quickly, but when you're cursed you're cursed. Still, he has daydreamed about it. Anyone with a vampire lover would. ]
I am willing to try. And you need not worry -- even should my good health be reduced by the temporary dissipation of the curse, I am still capable of healing myself. Tyr's blessing has yet to elude me.
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Good, then you will be able to treat yourself should anything happen.. I do not know any magics, though I am good at first aid should it become necessary.
[Pulling out a dagger, he pauses at the sink to wash the blade, not wanting to take any risks with his lover's health, before he offers the pummel first.]
Unless you wish me to do it.
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Thank you, Fenris. First aid is a vital skill, especially where magic is limited.
[ For all that Xenk seems to have a near-limitless supply of Lay on Hands charges, it is limited per day. If one of them should get injured, it shouldn't a problem. But both would be... problematic, to be sure. ]
Given that one of my hands is presently occupied with the coin, this may be the best option. Though I would not wish to give you an undue burden. You need not do this, if you do not wish to.
[ Xenk holds out his arm, his forearms bear. ]
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[He leans forward to kiss the man's forearm, before flipping the dagger and catching it by the pummel. Carefully guiding the arm over the sink, Fenris pauses before counting.]
On three... One. Two. [And before he says three, he slices clean into the man's arm, not going slow as to not draw out the pain but to make it one sharp strike.]
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He flinches, more surprised by how vivid the pain felt than the depth of it. The blood that flows from it is a healthy-looking bright red, and though it is slow to coagulate, it's far lighter than Xenk's usual wounds. ]
Fenris! Look!
[ He is way more excited about the fact that he's bleeding than any normal person would be, needless to say. ]
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