Like a rebellious child, if he deserves even that much credit.
[Spoilers: Constantin does not think so! But that's quite enough of Thinking About Archimedes; he very pointedly pushes the document he's been writing on, like, away so he can lean on his elbows and look at this dusty, dusty man. Thank you for coming to see him right after returning, but whew, the grime...]
I do hope our esteemed Priestess [lol....] has better luck getting through to him than I have. He looked as though he was going to soil himself when I mentioned you had left with his many "receipts."
[That poor bitch... Anyway now Archimedes time is done, for real.]
Have you eaten? I'll join you.
[In, say, the sitting area of one of their fancy guest rooms, yes please? Anything to get out of this study and to give Felix pointed looks until he goes to change.]
[Does Felix pull a face when he thinks of the Priestess, so distressed by the news of Archimedes' Everything, having a face-to-face chat with the charming (re: slightly slimy) duke? Yes, because he has little faith that anything will come of it. Archimedes shedding a tear, perhaps. Proclaiming his undying loyalty to his fair, fair faction leader...
Ugh. Gross. This is why Felix thinks politics are wack, and so he's more than willing to let that thought fade away in favor of food? Or, more specifically, dinner with Constantin, which has an appeal all of its own. But, uh—]
Haven't you already eaten?
[Time is fake, but what time is it, really. Felix was prepared to nip down to the kitchens to hunt for some jerky or something... but a beat, and then, as he looks back at the door:]
Not that I'll stop you. You make better company than anyone from the Temple.
[A compliment? Boy. It really is good to be together once more, so please, don't @ him; just walk with him.]
[So maybe he had dinner sitting at this very desk like an hour ago! Don't @ him. He's already out of his chair and coming around the desk, gesturing for Felix to go, go. Come on!!]
I'll join you for a refreshing glass of water. Perhaps even two, if you're going to keep being so appreciative.
[This is half a burn and half actually genuine? It definitely does something to his heart to have it confirmed aloud for once that Felix enjoys his company, but also: this dingus. Let's go.]
I've spent two days with that imbecile and his dreadfully boring assistant— I crave conversation that goes on for more than a handful of words.
[And so he turns... to Felix "great at talking to people" Fraldarius... of course.]
[Connie, be kind! Felix is doing the best that he can. ...Kind of. He is a work in progress, but he still manages to shoot Constantin a mild Look—what is he, one of the orphans?—before he does, in fact, get a move on. They're going to his stupid sitting room, and if the servants haven't kept the fire going because he hasn't been here, well! That is the price they pay.]
And what makes you think I have anything to say?
[Grumble, grumble, grumble. What if he just, like, sits and listens to Constantin go on about anything and everything... yet another thing that has a certain appeal...
But his quarters aren't too far from the study, and after stopping a servant to ask for a tray of food (and tea that is neither floral nor fruity, because the duke's tastes are not his own) he's shrugging off his grimy coat as he steps into their makeshift dining room. One of the pockets is, ah, noticeably heavier than the other, and it's only then he remembers the items the Priestess gave him. Gifts for both of them.
...Hmm. A servant is sure to come bustling in soon to light the fire, if nothing else, and so Felix only pulls out the quill before draping his coat over the back of his chair.]
For you. From the Priestess. [And doesn't it look silly, when he's holding out it out like this?] Something about copying spells.
[Assume there's a neat little piece o' parchment wrapped around it with the real deets.]
[This Mood... Constantin is still perfectly chipper as he follows Felix back to the lovely sitting room, where he immediately makes himself comfortable because, come on, he's actually had to mind his manners since they got here and it's so much nicer to, hm, not.
But oh? This is... it's a quill. He gives it and Felix a raised eyebrow, skeptical, but takes it and twirls it a little between his fingertips as he skims the user's manual here. Hmm.
Yeah, is he going to need this? It's a nice quill, at least. He puts it, and the piece of parchment, down on the table where they are immediately forgotten.]
Fantastic. The duke wanted us to have some of his personal treasures, but I must say, they are, ah, generously— odd.
[So never mind those now! They'll get to those later.]
[Felix had no say in that gift, so judge away, Constantin... judge away. Please know that Felix also raised an eyebrow when the Priestess handed it over.]
Are they. [It isn't really a question—and it's immediately followed by a disdainful snort. That man! Ugh.] The duke can keep them. I'm not interested in his stolen goods.
[Can Flex come drop into the chair nearest Constantin's. Is he still grimy enough to earn a few pointed once-overs. Probably, and yet here he is anyway, scowling down at his forearms as he works to hastily roll up his sleeves.]
I'm barely interested in speaking with him, after the party. Ridiculous.
[He'll do it for the duchy, but let it be known that he doesn't like it!]
[Constantin will give him an additional look for the remaining grime, yes. Highly dusty... what a filthy man. But talking shit is more important, so!]
How fortunate that you have me to take one for the team. [you Owe Him, sir.] It's hardly my idea of a grand time to be shut up in a room with an annoying criminal who almost had me killed.
[Felix's mercenaries were here, which was nice? But the unpleasantness of it all! Ugh!]
The sooner we can put this place to rights and go home, the better.
[Felix is Tired and Felix is thinking about fifty things at once, most of which involve Constantin. He certainly doesn't need the reminder that Constantin almost died! That's still in the forefront of his mind, but something, something, Constantin did volunteer to serve as bait. Felix, as ever, has his own opinions about that sort of thing...
But that's nothing to be said right now, which is why he huffs out a quiet breath.]
It will take moons for anything to run as it should.
[Just a simple fact from Felix the Realist, as he finishes rolling up one sleeve and moves on to the other.]
No one is forcing you to stay, [he says, and this isn't a dig; this is Felix foolishly offering him what he thinks of as an out, because Constantin has his orphanage to see to and Felix has—what? Two villages his mercenaries keep an eye on? That doesn't require his day-to-day supervision, so, continuing right along:] I didn't say that I wouldn't speak with him. And it would be... better, if you left.
[Sometimes, saying things exactly as you think them isn't the, ah, best policy.]
[Loving this vote of confidence!! Thanks for that. Or: Constantin scoffs, sitting back in his chair and considering this free out. Like, alright— in all honesty he'd have preferred to go home the minute Archimedes announced it would be Constantin's life on the line, but he's here now...]
For my sake? [Because he could be snapped in half by a strong wind? Maybe so.] While the possibility is always lurking, I don't imagine any of the local lords and ladies will be sending their next assassins to me.
[While he's here for the common folk, he's on everyone's side but Archimedes'— so that should earn him some clout with the local nobility! Probably!]
And I am not a weak-willed, empty-headed little lout who gives up so easily, [and there are definitely some Daddy Issues in this weirdly specific description, but he waves a hand to dismiss all of those as quickly as they come. Never mind! He's fine. He's justifying this to himself and he is fine.] In a short while, perhaps.
[Can he build a functioning infrastructure from the ground up on the shaky foundation here in like, a week? Two? Time to find out. The very thought makes him slump in his chair, tired, head hanging back. Uggghh.]
Well, soon enough. Even the wallpaper in this horrid house is wearing on my last nerve.
[All it would take, Felix thinks, is a noble or two believing they're being slighted by the person reshaping the duchy as a whole, and bam! The fuse is lit once more. And maybe he isn't giving these nobles enough credit—or maybe he's giving them too much credit, honestly, but as they've already proven they're not above hiring an assassin...
...Well! Yes, the out is for Constantin's sake. Yes, Felix is, mmm, concerned with Constantin's general well-being, but it's more than that? It's also about Constantin telling him that he grew up in a court where so many people were out to kill him, and Felix thinking it unfair for Constantin to be forced to remain in this pit of vipers when he has somewhere he enjoys being, something he enjoys doing.
The problem, however, is that Felix fuckin' sucks with expressing such a thing, so he bites it back, settling for a huff of breath as he watches Constantin slump on back. On his last nerve, hmm!]
Obviously.
[One day! Felix will learn not to say whatever is on his mind at a given time. ...Well, probably not, but one can dream. Anyway:]
If I thought you were any of those things, I wouldn't— [Ugggggh, how to phrase it! Let him swipe a hand across his face.] I wouldn't have left you here.
[Leaving Connie in charge of this terrible place required Trust in many things, but this is not a topic to linger on, is it? They're both tired, and frustrated with the general state of things, so Felix straightens back up.]
...Come with me tomorrow. I plan to ride out. See the villages for myself.
[Like, some of them. This isn't the same as peacin' out entirely, but fresh air should be an agreeable compromise—and god damn, but would you look at Felix trying to be agreeable. Another sign that he's in so, so deep, and he knows it.]
[Oh, hmm. Well first—] Ah- yes, I know. Yours is not an opinion I suspect will change at a moment's notice.
[Because the nobles' probably will, eventually? That's just what nobles do, here and everywhere else, isn't it! But also because Constantin trusts Felix in turn, for all the actual serious things they've been through together, and... okay, well, he knows how he gets and he knows Felix would have stopped spending time with him months ago if he wanted to.
So! Felix surely need not defend his opinion of Constantin to Constantin! Still, Constantin also knows that he is already getting... unpleasant the longer he has to stay in this house alternating between schooling an idiot and rubbing elbows with the idiot's court. Court sucks! Living in the middle of nowhere and taking care of children has spoiled him for life outside court, whew.]
A ride would be nice. Are you going to drag me out of bed before dawn, or am I allowed the privilege of breakfast with the sun?
[Aha. That's a normal-enough response—for them, anyway—and thus Felix relaxes the slightest bit. Throws out the normal-enough response that is:]
The earlier we leave, the better.
[So, ideally? They would leave before dawn, but as Felix has just Hi-Yo-Silvered his to and from the Moon Temple, and as Constantin is clearly, hmm, having a wonderful enough time as it is...
...Well, never let it be said that Felix is unreasonable. He puts effort forth, when people are worth it—and Constantin is worth it more often than not, so.]
But I suppose I should check in with the others first. Have your breakfast. [Mmh—] Quickly.
[The longer he waits, the antsier he gets! He is a doer, Constantin. Have mercy.]
[Oooohh Felix, letting him eat breakfast? Now that's consideration! Of his, like, whiny temperament if he can't have some plain toast and tea in the morning.]
Quickly, he says! I will do my best, only for you.
[Sacrifices, etc. It will be good to get out for a few hours... very good indeed. He's looking forward to it, something he shows by like, sitting up properly again. That's the most pep he can manage at this hour, after this day. Give him credit.]
You could have breakfast with me. I wouldn't turn you away.
[Only for him! He is touched, as evidenced by his quiet huff of amusement. Thank goodness they're back to this? This easy sort of back-and-forth that prompts a swell of fondness, because Felix spent every second in the Moon Temple scowling at someone or something; he was tense, tense, tense, for various reasons, but it's only here with Constantin that he's finally relaxed enough to manage a small smirk. This man...]
How generous of you, [he says, that earlier wryness creeping back into his voice.] I didn't know breakfast was so exclusive. Is there a list of approved guests?
Oh, you could say it without making me sound like some annoying socialite.
[One who has breakfasts with lots of people?! Constantin has never been to brunch in his life and he never will. And yet his tone is still fond, while Felix ribs him about breakfast... the punk. This is the only good conversation he's had in two days!]
If I did draw up a list, I would put you at the top. Now will you join me for some eggs and toast, or not?
[He will have a list tomorrow morning that says "NEVER" at the top and it will have only Archimedes' name on it, look forward to it.]
[Felix saw an opening and Felix decided to go for it! Anything to bring about this pleasantly warm mood, which is also why he seriously considers this breakfast proposal. Breakfast is meant to be eaten on the go, it is known, but... ugh...]
Eggs, perhaps. You take the toast.
[Dinners at the inn feel like ancient history, nowadays, and yet Felix still finds himself sliding bread across the table whenever the opportunity presents itself. It's as much a Gesture as it is a friendly sort of joke? The world's stupidest reminder of how they work.
And maybe that's what Felix is thinking about, as he holds Constantin's gaze for a second longer than he necessarily should—but of course this is when the door opens and a swarm of servants descends upon them, dropping off plates of food and a tray of tea. Lovely. Tomorrow's hot kitchen gossip will certainly not be the way the perpetually frowning stranger was all but smiling at his companion.
Not that Felix is terribly concerned about such things. He eats whatever meat they brought him and does, in fact, make a point of shoving whatever sweet treat they brought him closer to Constantin's side of the table. It's no bread, but the Gesture! The Gesture. Something that fits the still-warm mood as Felix relays Temple affairs and Constanstin, like, vents about Archimedes. It's healthy.
Soon, however, the meal is done, and Felix takes advantage of a momentary lull to pour them both a second cup of tea. This is probably the point where these two exhausted individuals... should head to bed? Prepare for what is sure to be a busy morning, but as Felix sets the teapot back on the table, he decides there's no better time than the present.]
I have something for you, [he (awkwardly) begins, and damn if he doesn't wind up clearing his throat. It's short, but still.] It's not what I... intended to give you, but it's. Useful.
[Smooth operator! And he knows it, judging by his expression. Hmm, yes, let him take a sip of tea.]
[Oh, and he has so many complaints!! about Archimedes to share as he picks at whatever dessert Felix has foisted off on him, indeed. The attitude! The stupidity! The continued attempted bribery, with those stupid trinkets of his-!! He could go for a while, but he doesn't, he doesn't— if only because it's tiring, and he'd rather sit in comfortable almost-silence with Felix, once the worst of his complaints are out there in the world. Plus, he's tortured this poor dessert by the time Felix is pouring the next cup of tea... woops.
He is still poking it with a fork instead of finishing it, of course, when he glances up with obvious interest. Oh?? More things for him? Do tell!]
Another mysterious gift? [Which, uh, reminds him to casually lift the edge of the tray to find where he left that quill, oops... He'll put it further away on the table. The word "mysterious" here refers to the existential "why" of the thing, not like, an actual mystery.
[Another mysterious gift indeed, which is almost enough to send Felix scowling—but no, no. Constantin asking about the other gift saves Felix from this fate? He simply shakes his head as he places his teacup back atop the table, because wow, sir, so greedy...]
Visit Hesperia and see for yourself. Until then, you'll have to settle for this.
[Don't ask questions about it! Because here is the truth: before this... mission of theirs pulled them down near Luxuriae, Felix had considered asking Constantin to come on another hunting trip? Another night under the stars, during which Felix would present both the stupid gloves he'd commissioned and the reasoning for them...
But, you know. This happened, and as this threatens to eat up their free time for the foreseeable future, Felix decides not to think about the night-that-could-have-been as he stands and heads over to rummage through the pocket of his coat. It only takes a second; soon he's walking right back, his pendant clasped in one hand as he comes to a stop before Constantin and dangles his right in front of him. A small, carefully crafted sphere on a long, silver chain—and hey! It's pretty. Colors are swirling about its surface as it catches the light, so it's certainly much more impressive than Felix's enlightening:]
...Here.
[Can he get away with just watching Constantin's face for a moment? Trying to gauge his reaction? He's never presented anyone with a necklace before, and while an explanation is needed—well! His awkward self doesn't know what to expect.]
[Wow! Hyping him up like that without even a spoiler! Constantin makes a noise of protest, an actual, genuine sound of disappointment that he has to wait to see this other gift— truly, Felix is cruel. It's something to look forward to beyond going home, and he will! But he wants to know, and he will be asking at least once a day from now on.
So, look forward to that too.
At least he has tonight's gift to tide him over, because a gift from Felix is... hmm, great? Something precious, regardless of whatever it is he gives him? Something small judging by the coat pocket, but Constantin thinks Felix could give him, like, a set of furniture and he'd still treasure it just for the sentiment behind it. The man makes the gift, in this case...
He is not, however, expecting a necklace. Sure, his cottage is full of little interesting-looking baubles already, but he isn't much of a jewelry person. That said... a number of things: it is pretty, and it's from Felix, who is suspiciously holding something else in his other hand, too... hmm!]
Oh! [He reaches up to touch the sphere but not take it from Felix, watching it sway before glancing up at him.] What does it do?
[Because it's useful, yes? And he isn't a jewelry person but everyone is allowed one exception, right, so this will be his; it's pretty and it makes him smile, a small one as he pointedly ducks his head for, well. It.]
You'll have to help me put it on! I've been writing all day, you see. My fingers are simply a shambles.
[Constantin, you little minx. Felix is, as expected, distracted by that smile, believing its size to be an indication that it's genuine even as he wonders if it would be, mmm, bigger? Were it something Constantin actually wanted? Felix didn't choose this item, sure, but maybe he's still missed the mark...
Or: This doesn't involve weaponry, which means that Felix is flying blind—and is therefore caught completely off guard by Constantin dipping his head. The reason for such a mvoe is obvious, of course, but so wholly unexpected that, while Felix is certain that Constantin can manage to put a necklace about his own neck, the only thing he has to offer in response to that is:]
Ah.
[A very intelligent noise from a very intelligent Felix, but after a second's pause—well? The longer Felix stands here and blinks at the back of Constantin's head, the more ridiculous he'll feel, and thus he knows that it's better to move? To unhook the necklace's clasp, even if the pendant he's still holding onto makes this a bit, um, trickier than it necessarily should be. It's fine. What matters is that he manages to unclasp it before sort of holding it above Constantin for a moment, working out the logistics of this simple thing made all the more complicated by the fact that he's never, ever done this for anyone. All he needs to do is lower his hands, bring both ends of the necklace around to meet at the nape of Constantin's neck, so let him just... slowly do that while he reaches for his words...]
It's a... model, of this world, [he haltingly explains, more focused on the hand accidentally brushing against Constantin's jaw than whatever words are coming out of his mouth. Goddess above, he is trying.] One of two. If we wear them, we can find one another. I'll see when you're in danger, but that— it's not—
[—why this matters, he means to say, because it isn't as though Constantin asked for him to watch over him? And it isn't as though he makes a show of watching over others, anyway. Whew. Something, something, chivalry is dangerous, but far be it for him to open that can of worms; instead, as he fumbles with closing the clasp, he clicks his tongue before quietly (gruffly) adding:]
...You're not alone. Not here. [Hmm.] That's all.
[And "here" means this manor, of course, but also Fellden as a whole—and as the necklace settles about Constantin's neck and Felix moves to pull his hands away, surely he doesn't need to say what should be obvious. He's done enough as it is.]
[At least one of them is very, very fortunate that Constantin is looking at the floor for most of this, ah, speech. Credit where credit is due for the both of them being distracted by something else, because Constantin is stuck on Felix doing this thing for him that he really, honestly doesn't have to do. It's the same as offering his arm when they walked around town with those (frankly incredible) bouquets; indulgent without pretense. Bumbling, a little, maybe, but Constantin appreciates Felix's halting words more than he would a proper speech, in the end.
There are just so many Gestures here, and his hand goes to the pendant again to look at it up close. So it will tell Felix if he's in danger... that's nice, that's a fun bit of enchantment, but Constantin didn't take it the wrong way when Felix told him he'd be better off leaving and he doesn't take it the wrong way now, so please— chill.
He is just looking at it thoughtfully, though. There's meaning behind something like this, he would be a fool not to understand that, the gesture to end all gestures. Felix has long since been the person he's closest to here, the person he can trust and rely on, and to have this... sparkly little globe that will always connect the two of them? That Felix gave him of his own accord, to show him that he isn't alone?
Well!
Constantin closes his hand around the pendant and takes a deep breath because he is definitely not going to tear up over this necklace, he is not doing that. He comes close, and maybe there's the faintest edge of that in the way he smiles up at Felix this time, but leave him alone. Feelings are so much.]
Thank you. It's... well, would it be too much to say your presence means the world to me, right this very second?
[He will conscientiously just reference this bad world pun instead of leaning all the way into it. You're welcome! Part of him wants to fuss over Felix putting on his pretty planet necklace, but the part of him that is an adult feels bolder, reaching up while he's still standing close to put a hand on his cheek. Don't be weird.]
No matter what happens here, know that I wouldn't trade meeting you for anything.
[That smile, watery though it may be, is enough. It was honestly all that Felix was hoping for, but before he can, like, relax enough to properly enjoy this moment (and scoff at that stupid pun)—ah? Ah. There is a hand suddenly settling against his cheek, and he instinctively freezes, neither noticing nor caring that he's still bent at the waist as his gaze meet Constantin's. The urge to look away is suddenly there, of course. He dislikes direct eye contact, let alone holding it for any length of time, but this is—well. They haven't been, say, drinking wine from a bottle beneath the stars; Constantin is decidedly sober, which makes this touch deliberate, and thus Felix finds himself searching those familiar eyes for... something. A reason why, perhaps, even though it's all so perfectly obvious.
...Hmm. There is the stupid fear of ruining whatever this is? Whatever they've stumbled into, and yet, as some of the tension slowly eeks out of his shoulders, Felix brings his free hand back up, the tips of his fingers coming to rest, feather-light, along the bit of Constantin's jawline he'd accidentally brushed a short minute or so ago. Constantin's hand against his cheek; his hand just barely against Constantin's. A mirror image.
And that is, mmm, so emblematic of them that Felix feels the corners of his lips curling into a small, irrepressibly fond smile that's sure to disappear when reality sets in. There's the general sense that things are... awkward, but it seems somewhat removed, at the moment. He isn't thinking; he's simply doing, so:]
Don't be dramatic.
[Not that Felix is a particularly positive person, especially given their faction's failings, but listen: that's wack. That goes against the purpose of these necklaces, and so, while Felix would be perfectly content to say nothing more—ah, well. There's warmth creeping into his cheeks; his heart is all but hammering in his chest; he's never been more out of his element, but Constantin is looking up at him, warm and undeniably real beneath his fingertips, and his only option is to fumble forward? To lean the slightest bit closer, knowing what he wants before he's, ah, properly processed it. Know that he will be an idiot when that occurs, but for now...]
Meeting you was— [Hmm, how to say this Thing. This stupid Admission. What if he nixes that and, after taking a steadying breath, starts back over.] ...You have become... important, to me. I appreciate our time together.
[Perplexing puns and all. Damn. Anyway, the beauty of simply doing is that he doesn't think twice about slipping his thumb beneath Constantin's chin, gently urging him to tilt his head further back. Testing those awkward, awkward waters before he takes the plunge.]
[There is a very brief moment where Constantin thinks he ought to pull away sooner rather than later; this undefined thing between them can stay as long as it remains undefined, he shouldn't push, it would be wise to sit back and see to putting away these dishes, or something— but ah, there's Felix's touch against his jaw, and never mind any of that. That's some kind of a yes, isn't it, some kind of tacit approval for what Constantin is doing and therefore the go ahead to keep doing it.
So, he will! He will sit right here and feel Felix's skin heat up under his fingers, scoffing first because listen, he's never been dramatic in his life—]
I am very serious. [—He is, really! But he still couches it in the light tone of friendly sarcasm and sort of half-rolls his eyes. Felix's little smile up close is surely going to kill him, see, so before the warmth threatening to burst straight out of his chest puts him in the ground he must roll his eyes.
The perfect crime. Felix says more things Constantin already suspected, and it's lovely as always to hear them spoken aloud, and he would have to actually be dead to not clue in to what Felix is going for as he tips his head back. Of course he does, good god, but the miracle is truly how Constantin can keep a stalwart grip on his self control at a time like this.
It's like this, in short: he'll wait for Felix as long as it takes, he's decided that just now, but god if he wouldn't rather minimize that wait time to as little as possible. It's a credit to the depth of his feelings that he hasn't let those same feelings run wild and make a clumsy mess of this already clumsy moment— please appreciate him and the sacrifices he's making here.
But he doesn't know what to say that wouldn't embarrass them both, so inevitably all he can come up with while Felix takes his sweet time is,] I appreciate a lot of things about you.
[For example, how smooth he is. Constantin inches his hand a bit further back toward Felix's hair, which is as many little signs of encouragement he can give short of saying "go for it" out loud.]
[It isn't as though Constantin has to wait very long? Not once he allows Felix to tip his head back, anyway, because the ease with which it all happens is clearly tacit approval. That's all that Felix needs, but feeling that hand slide back, fingers just barely slipping into his messy hair, doesn't hurt. No one touches him like this, he can't help but to think, the quiet thrill of it sending his eyes drifting down to Constantin's lips. No one is permitted to.
...Except for this person who does, in fact, appreciate him for him—and while that reminder is unnecessary, it is what finally what spurs Felix forward. There's no need to think about where they are, or how they're positioned, or what they're even doing; there's simply Felix's hand slipping down to the side of Constantin's neck, thumb resting ever so lightly atop the line of his jaw as Felix closes that last bit of distance between them. It's nothing complicated. Felix has kissed others before, albeit very rarely and very, very long ago, but where those were quick, hurried things, this is...
Well. It's little more than a clumsy brush of lips, at first. Felix barely avoiding bumping their noses together as he remembers how this works, but it isn't as though it's a terribly complicated thing; soon he's doubling down on his efforts, pressing his lips to Constantin's a touch more firmly as his confidence swells, as he fully accepts that, yes, this is indeed what he wants. Maybe it's foolish! Maybe it's reckless! Maybe it's many things, but he's determined—and thus he narrows his focus to Constantin, savoring this simple, chaste kiss for as long as he's allowed.]
[Hmm, 6/10 for clumsiness... No, no; there's an earnestness to that first uncertain contact that both makes Constantin smile against his lips and calms the frenetic thumping of his heart. Because this thing is new and different, this pushes them well past nebulous and at the same time, it's Felix. Felix who wakes before dawn for ridiculous reasons and who barely bothered to get the dust of the road off himself before sitting down in a fine arm chair to eat. And to kiss him, good god, is this the distinct feeling of dust in his hair as Constantin curls his fingers into the strands? Is it?
Well, it is what it is— simple and warm, without pretense or posturing. Constantin has always known exactly where he stands when it comes to Felix, and so it only makes sense that it's this person he's grown so close to in such a relatively short time. He straightens up some, to really lean in and kiss him back properly, like perhaps he is seconds away from dissolving through the chair from sheer delight—
He'll try not to! But when this surprisingly sweet kiss comes to an end, it is definitely because he finally couldn't stop himself from chuckling. To think he could care for someone this much and have his affections returned! Remarkable! Enough that he more or less giggles like a teenager for a second, hold on, hold on...]
Hmm— I will get better at that.
[At not laughing!! He promises, punctuated with a very bold second smooch, much quicker than the first. The deal is sealed.]
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[Spoilers: Constantin does not think so! But that's quite enough of Thinking About Archimedes; he very pointedly pushes the document he's been writing on, like, away so he can lean on his elbows and look at this dusty, dusty man. Thank you for coming to see him right after returning, but whew, the grime...]
I do hope our esteemed Priestess [lol....] has better luck getting through to him than I have. He looked as though he was going to soil himself when I mentioned you had left with his many "receipts."
[That poor bitch... Anyway now Archimedes time is done, for real.]
Have you eaten? I'll join you.
[In, say, the sitting area of one of their fancy guest rooms, yes please? Anything to get out of this study and to give Felix pointed looks until he goes to change.]
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Ugh. Gross. This is why Felix thinks politics are wack, and so he's more than willing to let that thought fade away in favor of food? Or, more specifically, dinner with Constantin, which has an appeal all of its own. But, uh—]
Haven't you already eaten?
[Time is fake, but what time is it, really. Felix was prepared to nip down to the kitchens to hunt for some jerky or something... but a beat, and then, as he looks back at the door:]
Not that I'll stop you. You make better company than anyone from the Temple.
[A compliment? Boy. It really is good to be together once more, so please, don't @ him; just walk with him.]
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I'll join you for a refreshing glass of water. Perhaps even two, if you're going to keep being so appreciative.
[This is half a burn and half actually genuine? It definitely does something to his heart to have it confirmed aloud for once that Felix enjoys his company, but also: this dingus. Let's go.]
I've spent two days with that imbecile and his dreadfully boring assistant— I crave conversation that goes on for more than a handful of words.
[And so he turns... to Felix "great at talking to people" Fraldarius... of course.]
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And what makes you think I have anything to say?
[Grumble, grumble, grumble. What if he just, like, sits and listens to Constantin go on about anything and everything... yet another thing that has a certain appeal...
But his quarters aren't too far from the study, and after stopping a servant to ask for a tray of food (and tea that is neither floral nor fruity, because the duke's tastes are not his own) he's shrugging off his grimy coat as he steps into their makeshift dining room. One of the pockets is, ah, noticeably heavier than the other, and it's only then he remembers the items the Priestess gave him. Gifts for both of them.
...Hmm. A servant is sure to come bustling in soon to light the fire, if nothing else, and so Felix only pulls out the quill before draping his coat over the back of his chair.]
For you. From the Priestess. [And doesn't it look silly, when he's holding out it out like this?] Something about copying spells.
[Assume there's a neat little piece o' parchment wrapped around it with the real deets.]
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But oh? This is... it's a quill. He gives it and Felix a raised eyebrow, skeptical, but takes it and twirls it a little between his fingertips as he skims the user's manual here. Hmm.
Yeah, is he going to need this? It's a nice quill, at least. He puts it, and the piece of parchment, down on the table where they are immediately forgotten.]
Fantastic. The duke wanted us to have some of his personal treasures, but I must say, they are, ah, generously— odd.
[So never mind those now! They'll get to those later.]
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Are they. [It isn't really a question—and it's immediately followed by a disdainful snort. That man! Ugh.] The duke can keep them. I'm not interested in his stolen goods.
[Can Flex come drop into the chair nearest Constantin's. Is he still grimy enough to earn a few pointed once-overs. Probably, and yet here he is anyway, scowling down at his forearms as he works to hastily roll up his sleeves.]
I'm barely interested in speaking with him, after the party. Ridiculous.
[He'll do it for the duchy, but let it be known that he doesn't like it!]
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How fortunate that you have me to take one for the team. [you Owe Him, sir.] It's hardly my idea of a grand time to be shut up in a room with an annoying criminal who almost had me killed.
[Felix's mercenaries were here, which was nice? But the unpleasantness of it all! Ugh!]
The sooner we can put this place to rights and go home, the better.
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But that's nothing to be said right now, which is why he huffs out a quiet breath.]
It will take moons for anything to run as it should.
[Just a simple fact from Felix the Realist, as he finishes rolling up one sleeve and moves on to the other.]
No one is forcing you to stay, [he says, and this isn't a dig; this is Felix foolishly offering him what he thinks of as an out, because Constantin has his orphanage to see to and Felix has—what? Two villages his mercenaries keep an eye on? That doesn't require his day-to-day supervision, so, continuing right along:] I didn't say that I wouldn't speak with him. And it would be... better, if you left.
[Sometimes, saying things exactly as you think them isn't the, ah, best policy.]
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For my sake? [Because he could be snapped in half by a strong wind? Maybe so.] While the possibility is always lurking, I don't imagine any of the local lords and ladies will be sending their next assassins to me.
[While he's here for the common folk, he's on everyone's side but Archimedes'— so that should earn him some clout with the local nobility! Probably!]
And I am not a weak-willed, empty-headed little lout who gives up so easily, [and there are definitely some Daddy Issues in this weirdly specific description, but he waves a hand to dismiss all of those as quickly as they come. Never mind! He's fine. He's justifying this to himself and he is fine.] In a short while, perhaps.
[Can he build a functioning infrastructure from the ground up on the shaky foundation here in like, a week? Two? Time to find out. The very thought makes him slump in his chair, tired, head hanging back. Uggghh.]
Well, soon enough. Even the wallpaper in this horrid house is wearing on my last nerve.
dw let me post this
...Well! Yes, the out is for Constantin's sake. Yes, Felix is, mmm, concerned with Constantin's general well-being, but it's more than that? It's also about Constantin telling him that he grew up in a court where so many people were out to kill him, and Felix thinking it unfair for Constantin to be forced to remain in this pit of vipers when he has somewhere he enjoys being, something he enjoys doing.
The problem, however, is that Felix fuckin' sucks with expressing such a thing, so he bites it back, settling for a huff of breath as he watches Constantin slump on back. On his last nerve, hmm!]
Obviously.
[One day! Felix will learn not to say whatever is on his mind at a given time. ...Well, probably not, but one can dream. Anyway:]
If I thought you were any of those things, I wouldn't— [Ugggggh, how to phrase it! Let him swipe a hand across his face.] I wouldn't have left you here.
[Leaving Connie in charge of this terrible place required Trust in many things, but this is not a topic to linger on, is it? They're both tired, and frustrated with the general state of things, so Felix straightens back up.]
...Come with me tomorrow. I plan to ride out. See the villages for myself.
[Like, some of them. This isn't the same as peacin' out entirely, but fresh air should be an agreeable compromise—and god damn, but would you look at Felix trying to be agreeable. Another sign that he's in so, so deep, and he knows it.]
prayer circle for dw
[Because the nobles' probably will, eventually? That's just what nobles do, here and everywhere else, isn't it! But also because Constantin trusts Felix in turn, for all the actual serious things they've been through together, and... okay, well, he knows how he gets and he knows Felix would have stopped spending time with him months ago if he wanted to.
So! Felix surely need not defend his opinion of Constantin to Constantin! Still, Constantin also knows that he is already getting... unpleasant the longer he has to stay in this house alternating between schooling an idiot and rubbing elbows with the idiot's court. Court sucks! Living in the middle of nowhere and taking care of children has spoiled him for life outside court, whew.]
A ride would be nice. Are you going to drag me out of bed before dawn, or am I allowed the privilege of breakfast with the sun?
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The earlier we leave, the better.
[So, ideally? They would leave before dawn, but as Felix has just Hi-Yo-Silvered his to and from the Moon Temple, and as Constantin is clearly, hmm, having a wonderful enough time as it is...
...Well, never let it be said that Felix is unreasonable. He puts effort forth, when people are worth it—and Constantin is worth it more often than not, so.]
But I suppose I should check in with the others first. Have your breakfast. [Mmh—] Quickly.
[The longer he waits, the antsier he gets! He is a doer, Constantin. Have mercy.]
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Quickly, he says! I will do my best, only for you.
[Sacrifices, etc. It will be good to get out for a few hours... very good indeed. He's looking forward to it, something he shows by like, sitting up properly again. That's the most pep he can manage at this hour, after this day. Give him credit.]
You could have breakfast with me. I wouldn't turn you away.
[Eat some goddamn toast with him, Flex.]
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How generous of you, [he says, that earlier wryness creeping back into his voice.] I didn't know breakfast was so exclusive. Is there a list of approved guests?
[Archimedes is banned, he's sure.]
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[One who has breakfasts with lots of people?! Constantin has never been to brunch in his life and he never will. And yet his tone is still fond, while Felix ribs him about breakfast... the punk. This is the only good conversation he's had in two days!]
If I did draw up a list, I would put you at the top. Now will you join me for some eggs and toast, or not?
[He will have a list tomorrow morning that says "NEVER" at the top and it will have only Archimedes' name on it, look forward to it.]
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Eggs, perhaps. You take the toast.
[Dinners at the inn feel like ancient history, nowadays, and yet Felix still finds himself sliding bread across the table whenever the opportunity presents itself. It's as much a Gesture as it is a friendly sort of joke? The world's stupidest reminder of how they work.
And maybe that's what Felix is thinking about, as he holds Constantin's gaze for a second longer than he necessarily should—but of course this is when the door opens and a swarm of servants descends upon them, dropping off plates of food and a tray of tea. Lovely. Tomorrow's hot kitchen gossip will certainly not be the way the perpetually frowning stranger was all but smiling at his companion.
Not that Felix is terribly concerned about such things. He eats whatever meat they brought him and does, in fact, make a point of shoving whatever sweet treat they brought him closer to Constantin's side of the table. It's no bread, but the Gesture! The Gesture. Something that fits the still-warm mood as Felix relays Temple affairs and Constanstin, like, vents about Archimedes. It's healthy.
Soon, however, the meal is done, and Felix takes advantage of a momentary lull to pour them both a second cup of tea. This is probably the point where these two exhausted individuals... should head to bed? Prepare for what is sure to be a busy morning, but as Felix sets the teapot back on the table, he decides there's no better time than the present.]
I have something for you, [he (awkwardly) begins, and damn if he doesn't wind up clearing his throat. It's short, but still.] It's not what I... intended to give you, but it's. Useful.
[Smooth operator! And he knows it, judging by his expression. Hmm, yes, let him take a sip of tea.]
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He is still poking it with a fork instead of finishing it, of course, when he glances up with obvious interest. Oh?? More things for him? Do tell!]
Another mysterious gift? [Which, uh, reminds him to casually lift the edge of the tray to find where he left that quill, oops... He'll put it further away on the table. The word "mysterious" here refers to the existential "why" of the thing, not like, an actual mystery.
...And also,] What did you intend to give me?
[Was there a third gift? He has to know.]
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Visit Hesperia and see for yourself. Until then, you'll have to settle for this.
[Don't ask questions about it! Because here is the truth: before this... mission of theirs pulled them down near Luxuriae, Felix had considered asking Constantin to come on another hunting trip? Another night under the stars, during which Felix would present both the stupid gloves he'd commissioned and the reasoning for them...
But, you know. This happened, and as this threatens to eat up their free time for the foreseeable future, Felix decides not to think about the night-that-could-have-been as he stands and heads over to rummage through the pocket of his coat. It only takes a second; soon he's walking right back, his pendant clasped in one hand as he comes to a stop before Constantin and dangles his right in front of him. A small, carefully crafted sphere on a long, silver chain—and hey! It's pretty. Colors are swirling about its surface as it catches the light, so it's certainly much more impressive than Felix's enlightening:]
...Here.
[Can he get away with just watching Constantin's face for a moment? Trying to gauge his reaction? He's never presented anyone with a necklace before, and while an explanation is needed—well! His awkward self doesn't know what to expect.]
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So, look forward to that too.
At least he has tonight's gift to tide him over, because a gift from Felix is... hmm, great? Something precious, regardless of whatever it is he gives him? Something small judging by the coat pocket, but Constantin thinks Felix could give him, like, a set of furniture and he'd still treasure it just for the sentiment behind it. The man makes the gift, in this case...
He is not, however, expecting a necklace. Sure, his cottage is full of little interesting-looking baubles already, but he isn't much of a jewelry person. That said... a number of things: it is pretty, and it's from Felix, who is suspiciously holding something else in his other hand, too... hmm!]
Oh! [He reaches up to touch the sphere but not take it from Felix, watching it sway before glancing up at him.] What does it do?
[Because it's useful, yes? And he isn't a jewelry person but everyone is allowed one exception, right, so this will be his; it's pretty and it makes him smile, a small one as he pointedly ducks his head for, well. It.]
You'll have to help me put it on! I've been writing all day, you see. My fingers are simply a shambles.
[shut up and let him have this, thank you.]
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Or: This doesn't involve weaponry, which means that Felix is flying blind—and is therefore caught completely off guard by Constantin dipping his head. The reason for such a mvoe is obvious, of course, but so wholly unexpected that, while Felix is certain that Constantin can manage to put a necklace about his own neck, the only thing he has to offer in response to that is:]
Ah.
[A very intelligent noise from a very intelligent Felix, but after a second's pause—well? The longer Felix stands here and blinks at the back of Constantin's head, the more ridiculous he'll feel, and thus he knows that it's better to move? To unhook the necklace's clasp, even if the pendant he's still holding onto makes this a bit, um, trickier than it necessarily should be. It's fine. What matters is that he manages to unclasp it before sort of holding it above Constantin for a moment, working out the logistics of this simple thing made all the more complicated by the fact that he's never, ever done this for anyone. All he needs to do is lower his hands, bring both ends of the necklace around to meet at the nape of Constantin's neck, so let him just... slowly do that while he reaches for his words...]
It's a... model, of this world, [he haltingly explains, more focused on the hand accidentally brushing against Constantin's jaw than whatever words are coming out of his mouth. Goddess above, he is trying.] One of two. If we wear them, we can find one another. I'll see when you're in danger, but that— it's not—
[—why this matters, he means to say, because it isn't as though Constantin asked for him to watch over him? And it isn't as though he makes a show of watching over others, anyway. Whew. Something, something, chivalry is dangerous, but far be it for him to open that can of worms; instead, as he fumbles with closing the clasp, he clicks his tongue before quietly (gruffly) adding:]
...You're not alone. Not here. [Hmm.] That's all.
[And "here" means this manor, of course, but also Fellden as a whole—and as the necklace settles about Constantin's neck and Felix moves to pull his hands away, surely he doesn't need to say what should be obvious. He's done enough as it is.]
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There are just so many Gestures here, and his hand goes to the pendant again to look at it up close. So it will tell Felix if he's in danger... that's nice, that's a fun bit of enchantment, but Constantin didn't take it the wrong way when Felix told him he'd be better off leaving and he doesn't take it the wrong way now, so please— chill.
He is just looking at it thoughtfully, though. There's meaning behind something like this, he would be a fool not to understand that, the gesture to end all gestures. Felix has long since been the person he's closest to here, the person he can trust and rely on, and to have this... sparkly little globe that will always connect the two of them? That Felix gave him of his own accord, to show him that he isn't alone?
Well!
Constantin closes his hand around the pendant and takes a deep breath because he is definitely not going to tear up over this necklace, he is not doing that. He comes close, and maybe there's the faintest edge of that in the way he smiles up at Felix this time, but leave him alone. Feelings are so much.]
Thank you. It's... well, would it be too much to say your presence means the world to me, right this very second?
[He will conscientiously just reference this bad world pun instead of leaning all the way into it. You're welcome! Part of him wants to fuss over Felix putting on his pretty planet necklace, but the part of him that is an adult feels bolder, reaching up while he's still standing close to put a hand on his cheek. Don't be weird.]
No matter what happens here, know that I wouldn't trade meeting you for anything.
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...Hmm. There is the stupid fear of ruining whatever this is? Whatever they've stumbled into, and yet, as some of the tension slowly eeks out of his shoulders, Felix brings his free hand back up, the tips of his fingers coming to rest, feather-light, along the bit of Constantin's jawline he'd accidentally brushed a short minute or so ago. Constantin's hand against his cheek; his hand just barely against Constantin's. A mirror image.
And that is, mmm, so emblematic of them that Felix feels the corners of his lips curling into a small, irrepressibly fond smile that's sure to disappear when reality sets in. There's the general sense that things are... awkward, but it seems somewhat removed, at the moment. He isn't thinking; he's simply doing, so:]
Don't be dramatic.
[Not that Felix is a particularly positive person, especially given their faction's failings, but listen: that's wack. That goes against the purpose of these necklaces, and so, while Felix would be perfectly content to say nothing more—ah, well. There's warmth creeping into his cheeks; his heart is all but hammering in his chest; he's never been more out of his element, but Constantin is looking up at him, warm and undeniably real beneath his fingertips, and his only option is to fumble forward? To lean the slightest bit closer, knowing what he wants before he's, ah, properly processed it. Know that he will be an idiot when that occurs, but for now...]
Meeting you was— [Hmm, how to say this Thing. This stupid Admission. What if he nixes that and, after taking a steadying breath, starts back over.] ...You have become... important, to me. I appreciate our time together.
[Perplexing puns and all. Damn. Anyway, the beauty of simply doing is that he doesn't think twice about slipping his thumb beneath Constantin's chin, gently urging him to tilt his head further back. Testing those awkward, awkward waters before he takes the plunge.]
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So, he will! He will sit right here and feel Felix's skin heat up under his fingers, scoffing first because listen, he's never been dramatic in his life—]
I am very serious. [—He is, really! But he still couches it in the light tone of friendly sarcasm and sort of half-rolls his eyes. Felix's little smile up close is surely going to kill him, see, so before the warmth threatening to burst straight out of his chest puts him in the ground he must roll his eyes.
The perfect crime. Felix says more things Constantin already suspected, and it's lovely as always to hear them spoken aloud, and he would have to actually be dead to not clue in to what Felix is going for as he tips his head back. Of course he does, good god, but the miracle is truly how Constantin can keep a stalwart grip on his self control at a time like this.
It's like this, in short: he'll wait for Felix as long as it takes, he's decided that just now, but god if he wouldn't rather minimize that wait time to as little as possible. It's a credit to the depth of his feelings that he hasn't let those same feelings run wild and make a clumsy mess of this already clumsy moment— please appreciate him and the sacrifices he's making here.
But he doesn't know what to say that wouldn't embarrass them both, so inevitably all he can come up with while Felix takes his sweet time is,] I appreciate a lot of things about you.
[For example, how smooth he is. Constantin inches his hand a bit further back toward Felix's hair, which is as many little signs of encouragement he can give short of saying "go for it" out loud.]
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...Except for this person who does, in fact, appreciate him for him—and while that reminder is unnecessary, it is what finally what spurs Felix forward. There's no need to think about where they are, or how they're positioned, or what they're even doing; there's simply Felix's hand slipping down to the side of Constantin's neck, thumb resting ever so lightly atop the line of his jaw as Felix closes that last bit of distance between them. It's nothing complicated. Felix has kissed others before, albeit very rarely and very, very long ago, but where those were quick, hurried things, this is...
Well. It's little more than a clumsy brush of lips, at first. Felix barely avoiding bumping their noses together as he remembers how this works, but it isn't as though it's a terribly complicated thing; soon he's doubling down on his efforts, pressing his lips to Constantin's a touch more firmly as his confidence swells, as he fully accepts that, yes, this is indeed what he wants. Maybe it's foolish! Maybe it's reckless! Maybe it's many things, but he's determined—and thus he narrows his focus to Constantin, savoring this simple, chaste kiss for as long as he's allowed.]
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Well, it is what it is— simple and warm, without pretense or posturing. Constantin has always known exactly where he stands when it comes to Felix, and so it only makes sense that it's this person he's grown so close to in such a relatively short time. He straightens up some, to really lean in and kiss him back properly, like perhaps he is seconds away from dissolving through the chair from sheer delight—
He'll try not to! But when this surprisingly sweet kiss comes to an end, it is definitely because he finally couldn't stop himself from chuckling. To think he could care for someone this much and have his affections returned! Remarkable! Enough that he more or less giggles like a teenager for a second, hold on, hold on...]
Hmm— I will get better at that.
[At not laughing!! He promises, punctuated with a very bold second smooch, much quicker than the first. The deal is sealed.]