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[ The image is, technically, nothing Set hasn't seen before.
It's Matt in his hospital bed, bare-chested with the thin sheet pulled over his hips. Hanuman is still coiling over his right hip, the anahata still gleaming emerald on his heart, the square bandage still secured with tape to his left side.
But the vibes are a bit different. There's a pleasant languor in the way Matt stretches out, a relaxed and inviting smile on his face that no Set, in any reality, has yet received.
And the message is new: ]
they're letting me out today ... prognosis is a few weeks of no heavy activity
which I'm pretty sure means we're good to have sex if you're on top
<3
It's Matt in his hospital bed, bare-chested with the thin sheet pulled over his hips. Hanuman is still coiling over his right hip, the anahata still gleaming emerald on his heart, the square bandage still secured with tape to his left side.
But the vibes are a bit different. There's a pleasant languor in the way Matt stretches out, a relaxed and inviting smile on his face that no Set, in any reality, has yet received.
And the message is new: ]
they're letting me out today ... prognosis is a few weeks of no heavy activity
which I'm pretty sure means we're good to have sex if you're on top
<3
[ I would say "no Set, and not for lack of trying", but this is definitely the first time he might be able to get with Matt in ANY way, and that's delightful. Clobbers him.
He's not β unwilling to play along. It feels like something he can do, and some part of him thinks back, back, to Horus. To not feeling... ready, or versatile, "for" him. Not being ready to take on those determined affections. Why not give a few things a try here? Clobbers him twice, because his response is β unskilled, to say it kindly. It might not be as smooth or OVERTLY sexy, either. A bit too pragmatic, maybe. ]
You know if you do not put clothes on, I WILL throw you over my shoulders and carry you away as-is.
S sex aside, you would
You
I would break you in half, no matter how we arranged it.
He's not β unwilling to play along. It feels like something he can do, and some part of him thinks back, back, to Horus. To not feeling... ready, or versatile, "for" him. Not being ready to take on those determined affections. Why not give a few things a try here? Clobbers him twice, because his response is β unskilled, to say it kindly. It might not be as smooth or OVERTLY sexy, either. A bit too pragmatic, maybe. ]
You know if you do not put clothes on, I WILL throw you over my shoulders and carry you away as-is.
S sex aside, you would
You
I would break you in half, no matter how we arranged it.
[ This might sound totally wild, but the reason Matt doesn't immediately say oh sorry, this was for someone else is because he doesn't want Set to feel slighted again. Like the least favored god among Saltburnt's spread. Matt already feels like he might have been unfair to Lucifer (yes, that Lucifer); if this becomes a pattern, he'll have to do some serious soul-searching as to whether he deserves the powers he was gifted with.
Also, Set's reply is riddled with tidbits that are just begging for follow-up. Are these tidbits erotic? Maybe not strictly speaking. Matt's intrigued nonetheless. ]
You'd literally break me in half?
No way. You've already touched me without breaking anything.
[ Is Set really going to carry him off??? It'd be like the fourth time since he got to this manor, if so. ]
Also, Set's reply is riddled with tidbits that are just begging for follow-up. Are these tidbits erotic? Maybe not strictly speaking. Matt's intrigued nonetheless. ]
You'd literally break me in half?
No way. You've already touched me without breaking anything.
[ Is Set really going to carry him off??? It'd be like the fourth time since he got to this manor, if so. ]
[ that's very nice of matt not to do that because set WOULD feel deeply slighted because he DOES have a horrific sense of self and value bestowed upon him via soul-rending curse. he WOULD become ANGY again, and that would not be fun. he also doesn't understand that you can like,
send a text to the wrong person, or butt-dial. ]
I could. I absolutely could. I am very strong.
[ He's also curious. About a lot of things, and ( SHOCKINGLY? ) painfully shy. ]
I nearly crushed your ribs with my thighs alone, Matthew.
I am not
It's not that
I would not do it on purpose. At least not while NOT mad at you. And s
sex isn't something you do while mad
send a text to the wrong person, or butt-dial. ]
I could. I absolutely could. I am very strong.
[ He's also curious. About a lot of things, and ( SHOCKINGLY? ) painfully shy. ]
I nearly crushed your ribs with my thighs alone, Matthew.
I am not
It's not that
I would not do it on purpose. At least not while NOT mad at you. And s
sex isn't something you do while mad
Edited 2024-08-28 18:07 (UTC)
[ Matt devours the lines of Set's text messages like they're a poem that leads to buried treasure. His lips twitch in fond recollection for nearly crushed your ribs with my thighs alone; he lingers on that line a moment before following the rest of the messages down to--
Oh.
Oh. ]
I mean
maybe it's not something YOU do while mad, but ...
I can say I've had some pretty satisfying angry sex. Mortals in general seem to manage to straddle that divide in a fun way more often than you'd think
Oh.
Oh. ]
I mean
maybe it's not something YOU do while mad, but ...
I can say I've had some pretty satisfying angry sex. Mortals in general seem to manage to straddle that divide in a fun way more often than you'd think
It should not be done angry at all! By anyone!
[ damn why is HE getting so mad about the angry sex other people are having wow set ]
How is being hurt during sexual intimacy at all "satisfying"? Or fun! Or survivable, depending on how strong an angry partner might be!
[ Oh.
Maybe he's worried for Matt? ]
[ damn why is HE getting so mad about the angry sex other people are having wow set ]
How is being hurt during sexual intimacy at all "satisfying"? Or fun! Or survivable, depending on how strong an angry partner might be!
[ Oh.
Maybe he's worried for Matt? ]
I have survived 100% of the sex I've had to date
[ STRONG START ]
I mean, if it doesn't do anything for you then it doesn't, but all the same pulse-racing, adrenaline-producing lines of thought apply here.
or maybe how a little salt can make something sweet taste better
[ STRONG START ]
I mean, if it doesn't do anything for you then it doesn't, but all the same pulse-racing, adrenaline-producing lines of thought apply here.
or maybe how a little salt can make something sweet taste better
[ ... Oh.
Matt is beginning to map out a number of textures and touchpoints in the vast, diaphanous landscape of Tropical Storm Set. Some are sharp, lashing, all "nature red in tooth and claw." Some hit like a punch to the mouth. But some, he finds, are surprisingly tender. ]
Noted. That's okay.
That's good.
I only want to do things that other people want.
[ Clumsy phrasing, and a massive understatement, but it's true. ]
Matt is beginning to map out a number of textures and touchpoints in the vast, diaphanous landscape of Tropical Storm Set. Some are sharp, lashing, all "nature red in tooth and claw." Some hit like a punch to the mouth. But some, he finds, are surprisingly tender. ]
Noted. That's okay.
That's good.
I only want to do things that other people want.
[ Clumsy phrasing, and a massive understatement, but it's true. ]
[ Well, he is, one day, the god of chaos. A god of disorientation and confusion, meant to bring to light the fallacies of devotion and rattle faith to its core. He's also made of conflicting things, so yeah. Tender bastardcore. ]
Okay.
So, when you say... you are good to have sex, if someone is on top.
Is that a medical assessment or because someone wants it of you?
Okay.
So, when you say... you are good to have sex, if someone is on top.
Is that a medical assessment or because someone wants it of you?
A little of both. Not quite either.
It's my interpretation of "no heavy activity," which is a medical assessment
and it's something I want to do.
[ Really, really wants to do. Saltburnt has spoiled Matt in terms of access to charming partners for frequent and mind-melting sex, and at this point in his routine, he's not used to going this long (d a y s) without some form of sex. ]
It's my interpretation of "no heavy activity," which is a medical assessment
and it's something I want to do.
[ Really, really wants to do. Saltburnt has spoiled Matt in terms of access to charming partners for frequent and mind-melting sex, and at this point in his routine, he's not used to going this long (d a y s) without some form of sex. ]
I still do not follow.
[ not easily at all! but when set is injured, he has an animal hindbrain that thinks anyone approaching him has ill intentions, even if he's invited then into his space. ( it's the trauma :( ) ]
But, if it is what you want, who are you to be denied it! I guess it is your body to use against others, even though you are so crushable.
I definitely am on top, though. Injured or not, you will not best me for it.
[ not easily at all! but when set is injured, he has an animal hindbrain that thinks anyone approaching him has ill intentions, even if he's invited then into his space. ( it's the trauma :( ) ]
But, if it is what you want, who are you to be denied it! I guess it is your body to use against others, even though you are so crushable.
I definitely am on top, though. Injured or not, you will not best me for it.
I use my body FOR others, o Lord of the Red Land
with them too.
And although I think it'd be pretty hot to fight you and lose and then you ravish me, [ Matt decided a long time ago, if decide is the right word for it, to lean into physical vulnerability as both a way to reclaim his sense of agency and a rebuke of the notion that witches are predatory monsters (it's! the trauma!!!) ] in the name of keeping all my stitches in the right place, I promise to play nice
with them too.
And although I think it'd be pretty hot to fight you and lose and then you ravish me, [ Matt decided a long time ago, if decide is the right word for it, to lean into physical vulnerability as both a way to reclaim his sense of agency and a rebuke of the notion that witches are predatory monsters (it's! the trauma!!!) ] in the name of keeping all my stitches in the right place, I promise to play nice
[ for? with? SOUNDS FAKE...... jk ]
Well, of course you would lose and be r
ravished by me.
I am competitive. So, also in the name of keeping your injury from being re-opened, if we are to fight, when I tell you to submit β do so. Deal?
[ He can do this. It's like the time he snuck into Horus's quarters to dominate him, except there's no animosity between himself and Matt. It's a β what had the others called it? "An imaginary situation", in which masks are worn and they play pretend. He can play pretend very well! ]
Well, of course you would lose and be r
ravished by me.
I am competitive. So, also in the name of keeping your injury from being re-opened, if we are to fight, when I tell you to submit β do so. Deal?
[ He can do this. It's like the time he snuck into Horus's quarters to dominate him, except there's no animosity between himself and Matt. It's a β what had the others called it? "An imaginary situation", in which masks are worn and they play pretend. He can play pretend very well! ]
Deal. [ To be honest, just reading the words when I tell you to submit has him feeling fluttery and warm. ] Whenever you wanna stop by, I'll be in my room.
[ Matt knows Set knows how to get there because of how he didn't need any guidance before grabbing his clothes. He also knows "whenever" is a pretty vague window, so he could be waiting for twelve hours or five minutes. Which means he has to hurry. Matt gets up, stitches pulling slightly, and starts working.
By the time Set arrives, whenever that happens to be, the door is cracked slightly. Nothing seems amiss; Matt's even visible on the bed, sitting propped up among the luxurious pillows in his pajama pants. (No shirt, because: why?) There's a faint magical gleam about the doorframe, but it's not a visible thing. Its golden energy is only detectable to the discerning. ]
[ Matt knows Set knows how to get there because of how he didn't need any guidance before grabbing his clothes. He also knows "whenever" is a pretty vague window, so he could be waiting for twelve hours or five minutes. Which means he has to hurry. Matt gets up, stitches pulling slightly, and starts working.
By the time Set arrives, whenever that happens to be, the door is cracked slightly. Nothing seems amiss; Matt's even visible on the bed, sitting propped up among the luxurious pillows in his pajama pants. (No shirt, because: why?) There's a faint magical gleam about the doorframe, but it's not a visible thing. Its golden energy is only detectable to the discerning. ]
[ He can do this, he repeats to himself. Entering the circumstances knowing that Matt will cleave to him when he is told to helps; control is what he fears the loss of, and perhaps beginning to expand his horizons with this man will be easier than having to fight one of the rougher ones. ( Set will lose, he knows. If someone tests their sexual dominance against him, he will lose. And it will be just like before, just like every time before with hands and teeth and flesh tearing him apart. )
To go to another man, knowing that he is going to partake in intimacy of the flesh ( for reasons, he cannot YET simply call it "sex"!!! ), he feels anxious. A crawling thing inside of his belly that tells him that he must not. It is silly to seek the heat of another man. Yet, he can remember kissing Horus. He can remember the way he'd thrown his arms around his shoulders and dove into the urgent, strong fold of his mouth; the way Horus's broad hands and strong arms had held him, and the brilliant, adoring blue of his eyes that looked upon Set with such glorification of his person.
He goes to Matt, because he wants to be knowledgeable and worthy of that worship. He doesn't want to flounder and flinch. And he pushes the door open without paying any mind to the spellwork around it β why would he? he's endless! β and he lowers his head and bunches his shoulders when he sees Matt, waiting and topless. It's different, when someone wears a shirt, for them to be bare. The war god's hair falls over his shoulders, pupils blowing wide and black within the red of his eyes, teeth bared in a sharp smile. ]
β what manner of fight is this, Matthew Jamison? [ and he just STEPS RIGHT IN :) get fucked set ]
To go to another man, knowing that he is going to partake in intimacy of the flesh ( for reasons, he cannot YET simply call it "sex"!!! ), he feels anxious. A crawling thing inside of his belly that tells him that he must not. It is silly to seek the heat of another man. Yet, he can remember kissing Horus. He can remember the way he'd thrown his arms around his shoulders and dove into the urgent, strong fold of his mouth; the way Horus's broad hands and strong arms had held him, and the brilliant, adoring blue of his eyes that looked upon Set with such glorification of his person.
He goes to Matt, because he wants to be knowledgeable and worthy of that worship. He doesn't want to flounder and flinch. And he pushes the door open without paying any mind to the spellwork around it β why would he? he's endless! β and he lowers his head and bunches his shoulders when he sees Matt, waiting and topless. It's different, when someone wears a shirt, for them to be bare. The war god's hair falls over his shoulders, pupils blowing wide and black within the red of his eyes, teeth bared in a sharp smile. ]
β what manner of fight is this, Matthew Jamison? [ and he just STEPS RIGHT IN :) get fucked set ]
[ So listen, Matt's mental calculus goes a little like this:
Set has said he's competitive. Set seems to grok the appeal of physical confrontation in a way he doesn't immediately apply to sex. Matt is constrained by a promise to yield when told to yield. Matt still wants Set to feel fulfilled by this encounter--flush with the thrill of victory, whatever exactly that means to him in his vast and glittering mind.
Therefore.
Set crosses the threshold, his question barely out, when the sigils limning the doorframe blaze like white gold. The space around him seems to collapse inward, dense as a star, and Set finds himself encircled by a scrim of demi-transparent golden light. For such a gauzy thing, the barrier is surprisingly resistant to being crossed.
On the bed, Matt sits bolt upright, giving a peal of bright laughter. (There's a teeny hint of strain in the way he sits, but for the most part, adrenaline seems to be carrying him along.) ]
That, [ he exclaims, ] is the art of motherfucking war.
[ PRACTICE DISSIMULATION AND YOU WILL SUCCEED. ]
Set has said he's competitive. Set seems to grok the appeal of physical confrontation in a way he doesn't immediately apply to sex. Matt is constrained by a promise to yield when told to yield. Matt still wants Set to feel fulfilled by this encounter--flush with the thrill of victory, whatever exactly that means to him in his vast and glittering mind.
Therefore.
Set crosses the threshold, his question barely out, when the sigils limning the doorframe blaze like white gold. The space around him seems to collapse inward, dense as a star, and Set finds himself encircled by a scrim of demi-transparent golden light. For such a gauzy thing, the barrier is surprisingly resistant to being crossed.
On the bed, Matt sits bolt upright, giving a peal of bright laughter. (There's a teeny hint of strain in the way he sits, but for the most part, adrenaline seems to be carrying him along.) ]
That, [ he exclaims, ] is the art of motherfucking war.
[ PRACTICE DISSIMULATION AND YOU WILL SUCCEED. ]
[ Honestly, he'd asked for it. A competition, an opportunity to metastasize his desire for physical dominance into intimacy ( Quentin's words had rung a little bell in his head, after all; a notification resonating within him, that some people thought of violence as intimacy, that some people liked tooth and claw in a way that got them off β ). It's not like he wants to rip Matt apart or anything, he's just stumbling through a few millennia of β well, naivety.
The barrier snaps shut around him, thin and pretty and transparent. And magic is a thing he never had, not like his siblings. Isis and her gauzy tendrils of mist, Osiris's mint-scented ivies and roots, Nephthys's arcs of warm light β moving around them like auras, fetching physical items and interacting with individuals from a distance, stroking cheeks and kissing brows and touching the tops of heads gently. And then, there was him.
No magic. Just sands, imitating and mimickingand falling short, strange, unlike them the flow of magic. Physical manifestations of physical power, his fists and claws and weapons and sands. God of magic, god of life, god of harmony. God of the desert. Born last and different and always, always yearning. It almost hurts to feel magic against his skin for a moment, and he can only turn that hurt into fuel for determination. Into fuel for anger. Anger into power. ]
β you think a trap is war?
[ His voice crackles, a mix of complex emotion and a brief twinge of don't you dare and a desperate little oh, i don't want to lose it. His mouth curls slowly, first at the corners and then at the lips, until he's come to bare his animal-sharp teeth β incisors and canines and premolars like a carnivorous cat or dog β at Matt's laughing form. ]
Little witch, you must not challenge so boldly.
[ He's not mad. He's not. He's just suddenly very, very interested in sinking his teeth into the pretty barrier, in getting his claws deep into it like a beast might slip theirs into soft flesh, biting and curling his fingers hard and fast and pulling the barrier. Straining to tear it apart by sheer force, the way he always has had to with magic. Physical prowess against metaphysical. Somewhere, something tears audibly.
And that's when the delight comes back into his eyes, bright and red and thin dark pupils like a devil as he feels something slacken between his teeth. Through gritted jaw he sneers, joyfully: ] Five seconds.
The barrier snaps shut around him, thin and pretty and transparent. And magic is a thing he never had, not like his siblings. Isis and her gauzy tendrils of mist, Osiris's mint-scented ivies and roots, Nephthys's arcs of warm light β moving around them like auras, fetching physical items and interacting with individuals from a distance, stroking cheeks and kissing brows and touching the tops of heads gently. And then, there was him.
No magic. Just sands, imitating and mimicking
β you think a trap is war?
[ His voice crackles, a mix of complex emotion and a brief twinge of don't you dare and a desperate little oh, i don't want to lose it. His mouth curls slowly, first at the corners and then at the lips, until he's come to bare his animal-sharp teeth β incisors and canines and premolars like a carnivorous cat or dog β at Matt's laughing form. ]
Little witch, you must not challenge so boldly.
[ He's not mad. He's not. He's just suddenly very, very interested in sinking his teeth into the pretty barrier, in getting his claws deep into it like a beast might slip theirs into soft flesh, biting and curling his fingers hard and fast and pulling the barrier. Straining to tear it apart by sheer force, the way he always has had to with magic. Physical prowess against metaphysical. Somewhere, something tears audibly.
And that's when the delight comes back into his eyes, bright and red and thin dark pupils like a devil as he feels something slacken between his teeth. Through gritted jaw he sneers, joyfully: ] Five seconds.
[ Matt's laughter begins to fade as he focuses more closely on Set within the barrier. He's listening to him talk, but much more than that, he's watching his face, the way tension enters his posture and leaves it again, the places in his body that light up with potential energy. Set looks good dappled in magic. Right, somehow--as if through this holy lens, adoring as a stained-glass chapel, Matt is able to see how he'd appear lit by desert sun, haloed in a corona of golden sand.
And then, to his great surprise-that-shouldn't-be ... Set fucking bites the shield.
He bites it.
Matt's eyes widen, impressed and ruffled in equal measure. For a moment, he just watches Set's teeth tear at the delicate tapestry, his magic unraveling under the sheer force of it. A quick-and-dirty barrier of this sort, with only a bit of breath and sigil holding it together, can really only take one good hit before dissolving like a sugar cube in water. ]
Wow, [ Matt says. (Two seconds ... three ...) ] Uh, actually, "The Art of War" is a b--
And then, to his great surprise-that-shouldn't-be ... Set fucking bites the shield.
He bites it.
Matt's eyes widen, impressed and ruffled in equal measure. For a moment, he just watches Set's teeth tear at the delicate tapestry, his magic unraveling under the sheer force of it. A quick-and-dirty barrier of this sort, with only a bit of breath and sigil holding it together, can really only take one good hit before dissolving like a sugar cube in water. ]
Wow, [ Matt says. (Two seconds ... three ...) ] Uh, actually, "The Art of War" is a b--
[ He doesn't even know this guy beyond: Paul has a baby grudge, and if he were to kill someone, it'd be THOROUGH. ]
If they form a voting bloc against you, I cannot save you alone. We would need allies to tie a vote up and hinder them.
I want to win the competition, the Homelander. That means you may count on me.
If they form a voting bloc against you, I cannot save you alone. We would need allies to tie a vote up and hinder them.
I want to win the competition, the Homelander. That means you may count on me.
just "homelander." no "the."
but i think we're getting a good sense of who's voting with who, now. the kid's only got sway over two, maybe three more votes. the pirates are probably a bigger problem.
can't say i don't wanna win, either. doesn't seem like ol portia really thought things through, but that doesn't mean we have to take things the same way.
but i think we're getting a good sense of who's voting with who, now. the kid's only got sway over two, maybe three more votes. the pirates are probably a bigger problem.
can't say i don't wanna win, either. doesn't seem like ol portia really thought things through, but that doesn't mean we have to take things the same way.
I am working with Daniil to dismantle the largest group vote inherent with the pirates. Muzzling them will aid us. And then, we must even the numbers between less-decimated teams β and keep our own alive.
And if Alia is a killer, we have likely lost her from our number. The evidence is compelling and precise. The number of potential kills will be decreased... we will fall behind if we do not do something.
And if Alia is a killer, we have likely lost her from our number. The evidence is compelling and precise. The number of potential kills will be decreased... we will fall behind if we do not do something.
red, blue, and pink were untouched, right? if you don't count attempts, anyway.
and yeah, alia's a lost cause. statistically feels like we won't go through as much of a massacre the next night, though maybe that thinking's too hopeful.
did you get a role? or know who did?
and yeah, alia's a lost cause. statistically feels like we won't go through as much of a massacre the next night, though maybe that thinking's too hopeful.
did you get a role? or know who did?
All teams are threats, but those definitely.
Up to seven may die a night, it seems. Two to vote out following. We need to make the other teams look more enticing as targets, and keep werewolf numbers up to ensure the math continues. We only really need to have the greatest numbers.
I do not need a role. I am powerful enough as-is, and unkillable too! I think we should bring this conversation to our team. If they haven't the stomach for killing... we may need to keep that between us.
Up to seven may die a night, it seems. Two to vote out following. We need to make the other teams look more enticing as targets, and keep werewolf numbers up to ensure the math continues. We only really need to have the greatest numbers.
I do not need a role. I am powerful enough as-is, and unkillable too! I think we should bring this conversation to our team. If they haven't the stomach for killing... we may need to keep that between us.
[ dani goes to set as soon as he can get away without being obviously followed. that rage is still in him, simmering just barely beneath the surface. he hates them, he hates them, and he's going to hate them more if lexi ends up behind bars for this.
before he knocks, he checks again that he's not followed. that woman implied she'd be sticking close. ]
Set, it's me.
before he knocks, he checks again that he's not followed. that woman implied she'd be sticking close. ]
Set, it's me.
[ While he doesn't REALLY care who dies, who gets blamed and whodunnit, the fact that there is a group working together that could threaten his victory? That could overtake the whole game, and lock down opposition?
They bring out the rebel in him, vying to thwart any authority they have. And Dani is both a useful pawn and someone he... feels for. Slightly. Sorry, Dani.
He greets the other man when he can get away, opening the door to his room to the first individual he has ever allowed into it. ]
Daniil. I am sure you are feeling wrathful, perhaps even betrayed.
[ Good. ]
I do not know if I can help your partner. But, I can help you avenge him.
They bring out the rebel in him, vying to thwart any authority they have. And Dani is both a useful pawn and someone he... feels for. Slightly. Sorry, Dani.
He greets the other man when he can get away, opening the door to his room to the first individual he has ever allowed into it. ]
Daniil. I am sure you are feeling wrathful, perhaps even betrayed.
[ Good. ]
I do not know if I can help your partner. But, I can help you avenge him.
[ dani comes in. he doesn't really look around; he would under better circumstances. but he's full of energy, full of anger.
nothing is okay. and honestly, he's having a hard time just keeping his light chained inside. ]
I was betrayed. I trusted that Koby. I told him about our world, I told him how vampires treat humans there. Now he's told those others and they're throwing it against Lexi as if it's any sort of proof for this.
I hate them. But I think they're watching me, too. The woman said they would. What do you think we should do?
nothing is okay. and honestly, he's having a hard time just keeping his light chained inside. ]
I was betrayed. I trusted that Koby. I told him about our world, I told him how vampires treat humans there. Now he's told those others and they're throwing it against Lexi as if it's any sort of proof for this.
I hate them. But I think they're watching me, too. The woman said they would. What do you think we should do?
And now you have learned that their "trust" is a lie unless you are one of their own. Which you are not.
[ Set breezes past the angry man, swinging his door shut behind him before he flops indulgently upon the bed. ]
I think we should break them up. I doubt we can then them against one another, but removing some of their votes by having them thrown in cells ought to satisfy for now. It is what they conspired to do unto your Alexei.
[ A pause, and. ]
There is also physical harm. If you have the stomach.
[ Set breezes past the angry man, swinging his door shut behind him before he flops indulgently upon the bed. ]
I think we should break them up. I doubt we can then them against one another, but removing some of their votes by having them thrown in cells ought to satisfy for now. It is what they conspired to do unto your Alexei.
[ A pause, and. ]
There is also physical harm. If you have the stomach.
[ it is what they conspired to do.
what they're conspiring to do.
though, he stops short at that last. ]
No.
[ a beat. ]
They'd only use that against us. Accuse us along with Lexi. He wouldn't want us to do that, he'd want us to be clever.
[ actually, he'd want dani to stay far out of it, and dani knows it. but cooler heads are not prevailing, currently. ]
But breaking their vote? We must do that. So far he has the most votes of anyone, solely because they've banded together.
what they're conspiring to do.
though, he stops short at that last. ]
No.
[ a beat. ]
They'd only use that against us. Accuse us along with Lexi. He wouldn't want us to do that, he'd want us to be clever.
[ actually, he'd want dani to stay far out of it, and dani knows it. but cooler heads are not prevailing, currently. ]
But breaking their vote? We must do that. So far he has the most votes of anyone, solely because they've banded together.
Oh, you want to be clever!
[ Angry and smart. Set's appreciation for Daniil has risen quite a bit now; as he sits forwards a little on the bed, eyes bright and studious. ]
There are several clever ways we could do it, provided our legwork is clear, concise and we are patient.
[ He lifts his hair, long and scarlet-red. Rips a few out and sheers them in half with a flash of raw power. They're shorter now, and have a gentle wave β ]
Frame and remove Shanks from play.
[ Option one. ]
If you think you can swallow your anger and pretend long enough, Koby's misery and guilt could be preyed upon. Make him think he owes you a vote of confidence, and target someone else β have him do the legwork to draw the crew into it. Use their vote while it lasts.
[ Option two. ]
Lastly, we need more votes. Anyone sympathetic to you who you know well, ask them to join your coalition. That Furiosa woman might help counter the pirates' number.
[ Angry and smart. Set's appreciation for Daniil has risen quite a bit now; as he sits forwards a little on the bed, eyes bright and studious. ]
There are several clever ways we could do it, provided our legwork is clear, concise and we are patient.
[ He lifts his hair, long and scarlet-red. Rips a few out and sheers them in half with a flash of raw power. They're shorter now, and have a gentle wave β ]
Frame and remove Shanks from play.
[ Option one. ]
If you think you can swallow your anger and pretend long enough, Koby's misery and guilt could be preyed upon. Make him think he owes you a vote of confidence, and target someone else β have him do the legwork to draw the crew into it. Use their vote while it lasts.
[ Option two. ]
Lastly, we need more votes. Anyone sympathetic to you who you know well, ask them to join your coalition. That Furiosa woman might help counter the pirates' number.
[ righteous anger flares briefly back up again: ]
Koby can go and fuck himself.
[ a beat. ]
But the others I can work on, maybe.
[ he turns, pacing, and talking with his hands. ]
We need a better candidate. There has to be actual proof somewhere of who really did all of this. There's more people who haven't voted at all. Before this happened, I didn't want to get involved, I wanted to keep our heads down until they came for Lexi. Maybe others feel the same.
Koby can go and fuck himself.
[ a beat. ]
But the others I can work on, maybe.
[ he turns, pacing, and talking with his hands. ]
We need a better candidate. There has to be actual proof somewhere of who really did all of this. There's more people who haven't voted at all. Before this happened, I didn't want to get involved, I wanted to keep our heads down until they came for Lexi. Maybe others feel the same.
[ Wao!! Dani has FIRE, Set likes. :)
While the other man begins to pace, frantic as anything, he stays on the bed and watches him. Back and forth, back and forth, eyes raking over the animated slice of his hand and ears listening to the pitch and roll of his voice. ]
There is still a chance that your Alexei will not be voted out. Someone may be presentable as a better choice than he, and that means ensuring in the subsequent rounds that your "better candidate" is found. Still, others who fear persecution or being mobbed by greater numbers can be located based on this. The pirates opened an opportunity to rally together quite soundly, by showing what we can do.
[ Slowly, he rolls off the bed and onto his feet, crossing to press his hands to the motions of Dani's own. ]
I must admit, I'm a little less interested in finding out "who did it" than most. I am aiming to have the greatest number of my team left at the end, is all. I would not mind that and you and you Alexei remaining as well. That could satisfy us all, hm? His safety for you, your safety for him. My victory.
While the other man begins to pace, frantic as anything, he stays on the bed and watches him. Back and forth, back and forth, eyes raking over the animated slice of his hand and ears listening to the pitch and roll of his voice. ]
There is still a chance that your Alexei will not be voted out. Someone may be presentable as a better choice than he, and that means ensuring in the subsequent rounds that your "better candidate" is found. Still, others who fear persecution or being mobbed by greater numbers can be located based on this. The pirates opened an opportunity to rally together quite soundly, by showing what we can do.
[ Slowly, he rolls off the bed and onto his feet, crossing to press his hands to the motions of Dani's own. ]
I must admit, I'm a little less interested in finding out "who did it" than most. I am aiming to have the greatest number of my team left at the end, is all. I would not mind that and you and you Alexei remaining as well. That could satisfy us all, hm? His safety for you, your safety for him. My victory.
[ he has a whole sun waiting to burst out.
thankfully not today. ]
Your team...
[ dani pauses in his pacing, turns to look at set. ]
You mean the masks? I...
Yes, that would satisfy. I don't care about the teams or the game. But why do you? People have died, more might still die. This is serious, we can't just play the game.
[ can they? ]
thankfully not today. ]
Your team...
[ dani pauses in his pacing, turns to look at set. ]
You mean the masks? I...
Yes, that would satisfy. I don't care about the teams or the game. But why do you? People have died, more might still die. This is serious, we can't just play the game.
[ can they? ]
Well, mortals were made to die. That they are is... not exactly alarming to me.
[ Someone else might be ashamed to admit to it, but he's got an alien, unknowable brain. He can definitely play a game that people die in. ]
This is akin to a war, in my eyes. Someone will lose and someone will win, so why not my team?
[ Someone else might be ashamed to admit to it, but he's got an alien, unknowable brain. He can definitely play a game that people die in. ]
This is akin to a war, in my eyes. Someone will lose and someone will win, so why not my team?
I like them. They belong to me, after all!
[ He has a Possessiveness Thing. An inhuman sense of Ownership over things he should be a cohesive part of. ]
And we are the underdogs. We started out with the most number of deaths attributed to us, after all. Erik, Parisa and Grace.
[ His eyes do flash, pupils thinning into cat-like slits, as Dani speaks a few words that SOUND TO HIM LIKE CHALLENGE. ]
β like, you and Alexei? I wish you could convert to another team! We'd take you both!
[ He has a Possessiveness Thing. An inhuman sense of Ownership over things he should be a cohesive part of. ]
And we are the underdogs. We started out with the most number of deaths attributed to us, after all. Erik, Parisa and Grace.
[ His eyes do flash, pupils thinning into cat-like slits, as Dani speaks a few words that SOUND TO HIM LIKE CHALLENGE. ]
β like, you and Alexei? I wish you could convert to another team! We'd take you both!
Edited 2024-10-10 00:47 (UTC)
[ he sees that flash, but it draws him closer, gets him to come sit next to set and train interested eyes over his face. ]
They changed.
[ his eyes, behind his mask. a little smile ticks at dani's mouth, despite this situation, despite the heat that still bubbles in his chest. ]
I'd like that. If we could change. I'd rather pick my own alliances, this is--
I don't know how I'm to trust anyone.
[ that doesn't just apply to the game. he had trusted people here, he'd found them friendly. kind. helpful. it was nice to be in a place where he didn't feel like everyone he looked at might be his enemy.
he regrets letting go of that mentality, now. ]
They changed.
[ his eyes, behind his mask. a little smile ticks at dani's mouth, despite this situation, despite the heat that still bubbles in his chest. ]
I'd like that. If we could change. I'd rather pick my own alliances, this is--
I don't know how I'm to trust anyone.
[ that doesn't just apply to the game. he had trusted people here, he'd found them friendly. kind. helpful. it was nice to be in a place where he didn't feel like everyone he looked at might be his enemy.
he regrets letting go of that mentality, now. ]
Of course they do.
[ Those eyes blink, and Set touches his hands to the sides of his face β as if the state of his eyes being pointed out is a surprise ( it is, if only because the things his body does are natural to him ). The stupid green mask still sits over his face, annoying him as he cannot draw his divine emblem over it for the time being. He's used to wearing a mask, but the green one is decidedly unpleasant. ]
I... would not say I am someone who even could tell you to learn to trust again. It is not something I know to do anymore, for sure.
[ Those hands tuck into his lap, and Set draws his shoulders back. Formal, and stiff. ]
Remember, I am known for being a traitor.
[ Those eyes blink, and Set touches his hands to the sides of his face β as if the state of his eyes being pointed out is a surprise ( it is, if only because the things his body does are natural to him ). The stupid green mask still sits over his face, annoying him as he cannot draw his divine emblem over it for the time being. He's used to wearing a mask, but the green one is decidedly unpleasant. ]
I... would not say I am someone who even could tell you to learn to trust again. It is not something I know to do anymore, for sure.
[ Those hands tuck into his lap, and Set draws his shoulders back. Formal, and stiff. ]
Remember, I am known for being a traitor.
[ dani looks sharply up. ]
Yes, in human stories. That doesn't mean they're true, humans get things wrong. They don't know everything.
[ this set is a different creature from the god of evil dani's stories have talked about. detail is missing. or context. something. ]
You wanted to help people. The women you talked about.
Yes, in human stories. That doesn't mean they're true, humans get things wrong. They don't know everything.
[ this set is a different creature from the god of evil dani's stories have talked about. detail is missing. or context. something. ]
You wanted to help people. The women you talked about.
I am the origin the sickness that caused those women agony.
[ Even as he says it, there's no real pride in his words. No gleam in his eye or flash of sneer to reveal him as someone reveling in the cruelties he'd introduced and empowered in his tenure as God Supreme. His hands twist together, because unbeknownst to him β it is right. What Dani thinks is entirely right. There is a "why" that nobody asked him; an ease in which they had thought the worst of their strange, solitary god of war. ]
My sister, Isis. We were best friends. She and I confided everything in one another: secrets, struggles, doubts, fears, desires. She was my greatest ally, and I hers β together, we could have outlasted any troubles set before us.
[ His mouth twists. ]
Understandably, we fell apart after the night I killed Osiris. And we used all those private moments between ourselves as tools to hurt one another, afterward. So. I comprehend Koby, and I comprehend you. That's why I was not about to let his companions... "protect you". Like you were an afterthought.
[ Even as he says it, there's no real pride in his words. No gleam in his eye or flash of sneer to reveal him as someone reveling in the cruelties he'd introduced and empowered in his tenure as God Supreme. His hands twist together, because unbeknownst to him β it is right. What Dani thinks is entirely right. There is a "why" that nobody asked him; an ease in which they had thought the worst of their strange, solitary god of war. ]
My sister, Isis. We were best friends. She and I confided everything in one another: secrets, struggles, doubts, fears, desires. She was my greatest ally, and I hers β together, we could have outlasted any troubles set before us.
[ His mouth twists. ]
Understandably, we fell apart after the night I killed Osiris. And we used all those private moments between ourselves as tools to hurt one another, afterward. So. I comprehend Koby, and I comprehend you. That's why I was not about to let his companions... "protect you". Like you were an afterthought.
Edited (wording) 2024-10-11 11:00 (UTC)
[ his pain is plain to see. how long ago had all this happened? and yet there it is, so striking, impacting set even now.
dani scoffs, at the thought of koby's friends protecting him. ]
I don't need their protection, I'm not defenceless. I can throw my own punches, as well as any of that crew.
[ and more beside. very many things feel possible to him when he lets his anger burn through him.
though the more it does, the more he also feels tired. ]
But I'm glad you said something, I'm glad you were there. [ he reaches to gently touch set's twisting hands. ] Some day I would still like to know your story. Thank you for being my friend today.
dani scoffs, at the thought of koby's friends protecting him. ]
I don't need their protection, I'm not defenceless. I can throw my own punches, as well as any of that crew.
[ and more beside. very many things feel possible to him when he lets his anger burn through him.
though the more it does, the more he also feels tired. ]
But I'm glad you said something, I'm glad you were there. [ he reaches to gently touch set's twisting hands. ] Some day I would still like to know your story. Thank you for being my friend today.
They will not heed your wishes. They have it in their heads that it is their way, or none.
[ He'd hated their attitudes, too. The dry, exasperated way they'd spoken of protecting Daniil β like it was a chore, or something to use speed along their atonement. ]
But, a friend, hm? I warn you that I am not good at being "a friend". I already told you I want to use your vote, perhaps even your Alexei's... I want to vote everyone out, killer or not. Wipe the entire board, and win.
[ If that has the added bonus of ending the game? He won't claim it as part of his scheming. He wonders if the Balfours, the manor, whatever power might be here β if it's ever dealt with someone like him. ]
[ He'd hated their attitudes, too. The dry, exasperated way they'd spoken of protecting Daniil β like it was a chore, or something to use speed along their atonement. ]
But, a friend, hm? I warn you that I am not good at being "a friend". I already told you I want to use your vote, perhaps even your Alexei's... I want to vote everyone out, killer or not. Wipe the entire board, and win.
[ If that has the added bonus of ending the game? He won't claim it as part of his scheming. He wonders if the Balfours, the manor, whatever power might be here β if it's ever dealt with someone like him. ]
Maybe I wished to woo you β then, have you convince Alexei to help me and my team.
[ Set's mouth curls a little, crooked and enigmatic. He's not exactly lying β his motives are often indiscernible to others. A mind like his does not exactly think in the way a human's might. ]
β I told you why, though. Having someone betray one's trust so precisely is... unforgivable.
[ Set's mouth curls a little, crooked and enigmatic. He's not exactly lying β his motives are often indiscernible to others. A mind like his does not exactly think in the way a human's might. ]
β I told you why, though. Having someone betray one's trust so precisely is... unforgivable.
Edited 2024-10-12 16:32 (UTC)
( he assumes set has his hands full playing his side of this game, which is why he doesn't simply go back to their suite looking for him. set could be anywhere, really. so, when shanks has a moment β when he feels, at last, that he has a moment to spare after a truly awful morning β )
I'm not interrupting your busy schedule, am I?
( a wee jest, because he can't help it. and, maybe, because this strange dynamic of theirs is familiar in a way he needs right now. he does also have something important to ask, but he's getting there. )
I'm not interrupting your busy schedule, am I?
( a wee jest, because he can't help it. and, maybe, because this strange dynamic of theirs is familiar in a way he needs right now. he does also have something important to ask, but he's getting there. )
[ Shanks is correct! Set lost Two individuals from green last round, and only one was confirmed a werewolf! Naturally, he's furiously working right now β and if his plans have tipped sideways a little, that's
well,
SHANKS'S FAULT. Which is why he doesn't even answer that silly question, he slips right into the things he has to consider. The core facts at the forefront of his mind. ]
They'll kill you next. Then have free shots at your crew, because you exposed yourself on round two.
well,
SHANKS'S FAULT. Which is why he doesn't even answer that silly question, he slips right into the things he has to consider. The core facts at the forefront of his mind. ]
They'll kill you next. Then have free shots at your crew, because you exposed yourself on round two.
Edited 2024-10-13 10:17 (UTC)
I am very mad at you.
[ He seethes between his teeth; can't even explain why is is that he's so mad, other than he is. Other than he has high expectations people rarely live up to. That he heavily dislikes individuals who cannot look beyond an immediate moment, and must act as if the future never comes to bear.
The rustle of paper heralds his movement. A whistle of wind warns of a high altitude. Set grumbles. ]
The highest peak of the rooftop. It is my spot.
[ He seethes between his teeth; can't even explain why is is that he's so mad, other than he is. Other than he has high expectations people rarely live up to. That he heavily dislikes individuals who cannot look beyond an immediate moment, and must act as if the future never comes to bear.
The rustle of paper heralds his movement. A whistle of wind warns of a high altitude. Set grumbles. ]
The highest peak of the rooftop. It is my spot.
( if only set knew the long game shanks is playing with the new age... it's harder, here, of course, to put all the pieces on the board when he has little to do with any of them β and right now his only interest in playing this game is keeping his people safe, by whatever means necessary. )
I'll make it up to you later. ( a promise, perhaps, or an invitation. ) Be there soon.
( and, true to his word, he arrives as quick as his feet will carry him, the scent of the lake still clinging to his skin from this morning. he offers a smile, weary from lack of sleep but no less genuine. )
Nice view. ( whether he means the landscape below or set himself, well ... who can say, really. )
I'll make it up to you later. ( a promise, perhaps, or an invitation. ) Be there soon.
( and, true to his word, he arrives as quick as his feet will carry him, the scent of the lake still clinging to his skin from this morning. he offers a smile, weary from lack of sleep but no less genuine. )
Nice view. ( whether he means the landscape below or set himself, well ... who can say, really. )
[ I'll make it up to you later, he mimics under his breath, sneering the words in the most petulant way. Some depraved, bitter part of him hopes that all of the pirates die. That they die horrifically, and their corpses are laid out one, after another, and that Shanks has to pick and choose who he wants to save. Because Set's not a good person; he's angry and spiteful and sore when things spiral out of his control. And unfortunately, he is also known for his inability to hold that tongue.
Right now, he's able to. And by the time Shanks arrives on the rooftop, under the cool autumn air, the exceptional bitterness has faded to solemn studiousness as he flips through a book. He bares his teeth, briefly and then harrumphs. ]
β really? Your life is imperiled and this is how you greet me? [ SHANKS ]
Right now, he's able to. And by the time Shanks arrives on the rooftop, under the cool autumn air, the exceptional bitterness has faded to solemn studiousness as he flips through a book. He bares his teeth, briefly and then harrumphs. ]
β really? Your life is imperiled and this is how you greet me? [ SHANKS ]
( there's still a scab from where set bit him last week, rough under his teeth as he worries over the corner of his lip for a moment, remembering how pretty it had sounded to hear set say please, and the kiss that had followed, as bitter as iron, as sweet as wine.
he shrugs off the admonishment, as unflappable as always, and lifts an eyebrow in challenge. )
Would you prefer if I kneeled?
he shrugs off the admonishment, as unflappable as always, and lifts an eyebrow in challenge. )
Would you prefer if I kneeled?
No... But, you may crawl over here, and tell me what you want.
[ A SIGH, as he curls his legs towards himself and pats a section of rooftop where Shanks can settle down. Part of him thinks he ought to make the man "make it up to him" now, rather than later; he might be dead later, or the game might be over and then, what would there be to make up for. He'd rather get to work, eyes sharp and bright and fixated upon the other redhead.
The kiss, his please, the desire that had flipped in his belly β he wrinkles his nose. ]
I may have to use your vote this time, since you'll be dead soon. At least Nami will know she was the most important to you.
[ A SIGH, as he curls his legs towards himself and pats a section of rooftop where Shanks can settle down. Part of him thinks he ought to make the man "make it up to him" now, rather than later; he might be dead later, or the game might be over and then, what would there be to make up for. He'd rather get to work, eyes sharp and bright and fixated upon the other redhead.
The kiss, his please, the desire that had flipped in his belly β he wrinkles his nose. ]
I may have to use your vote this time, since you'll be dead soon. At least Nami will know she was the most important to you.
( he isn't going to literally crawl β not right now, anyway β but he does settle himself across from set, legs folded in front of him, leaning forward on his one elbow. he's going to politely ignore that comment about nami, because he'd rather not get caught in the weeds of where anyone falls in the hierarchy of importance to him. )
What if I wasn't? If the Wolves think I'm already dead before the next attack... You can save my vote, and I can save my friends.
( it might only buy them another round, but that's better than nothing. )
What if I wasn't? If the Wolves think I'm already dead before the next attack... You can save my vote, and I can save my friends.
( it might only buy them another round, but that's better than nothing. )
You saving your friends every round they're under threat doesn't directly benefit my team.
[ Set feels he's been pretty transparent about what he wants: to win. With his team now five people behind, there's a lot of ground to make up for in the next few rounds, and no way to guarantee anything.
Having Shanks's vote is important to him, though. It definitely helps certain movements he might make; and in his vast acumen of tactical information, he has a sick feeling he needs to ensure Shanks and Pierce survive at least this round. ]
β I'm not against it, though.
[ A hm and he arches a brow. Shanks doesn't need to know he was already discussing killing and obscuring additional murders......... what's switching one up into a fake kill going to cost? ]
The main tactic I am working with needs a Witch more than a Doctor. What's in it for me? You know I could ask for your vote this round and then let the night play out.
[ Set feels he's been pretty transparent about what he wants: to win. With his team now five people behind, there's a lot of ground to make up for in the next few rounds, and no way to guarantee anything.
Having Shanks's vote is important to him, though. It definitely helps certain movements he might make; and in his vast acumen of tactical information, he has a sick feeling he needs to ensure Shanks and Pierce survive at least this round. ]
β I'm not against it, though.
[ A hm and he arches a brow. Shanks doesn't need to know he was already discussing killing and obscuring additional murders......... what's switching one up into a fake kill going to cost? ]
The main tactic I am working with needs a Witch more than a Doctor. What's in it for me? You know I could ask for your vote this round and then let the night play out.
Edited 2024-10-14 01:45 (UTC)
( his jaw sets and he's about to say i'm not going to let them die β something he has also been very transparent about from the beginning β and reconsider whether this is actually worth his time, but it seems set quickly realizes how much of a nonstarter that is β or at least that shanks' wild plan might be more beneficial to him in the long run, regardless of shanks using his role for selfish reasons rather than strategical ones. )
You could. ( but shanks has a feeling he won't. ) Or I could owe you a favor. Anything you want.
( he doesn't use anything lightly, either. at this point, there are very few lines he wouldn't cross. )
You could. ( but shanks has a feeling he won't. ) Or I could owe you a favor. Anything you want.
( he doesn't use anything lightly, either. at this point, there are very few lines he wouldn't cross. )
[ Red, red eyes watch the bunch of muscle in Shanks's jaw; Set knows it for defiant tension, the way he's seen countless men grit their teeth and brace themselves to fight that which would offend them. That the man came to him, with a ploy in mind is pleasing enough to the god, that fighting him on it isn't constructive.
He doesn't always like constructive things ( sometimes, destruction is a better method ), but this isn't a half-bad idea. It could be effective, it could not be. Having to treat every round as a means of uncovering the rules and parameters is aggravating. ]
I do not want for much.
[ He really doesn't, and the things he does want are out of anyone's reach right now.
He uncurls from his spot against the peak of the roof, reaching across the meager space between them to curl his fingers around the other man's jaw. Thumb pressed to the place where muscle bunches and tension has settled. ]
I will direct your vote this round, then. And then, we will attempt to fake your demise and get you through one more round. As for the favor you owe me... may I collect it at a later date? Within reason.
He doesn't always like constructive things ( sometimes, destruction is a better method ), but this isn't a half-bad idea. It could be effective, it could not be. Having to treat every round as a means of uncovering the rules and parameters is aggravating. ]
I do not want for much.
[ He really doesn't, and the things he does want are out of anyone's reach right now.
He uncurls from his spot against the peak of the roof, reaching across the meager space between them to curl his fingers around the other man's jaw. Thumb pressed to the place where muscle bunches and tension has settled. ]
I will direct your vote this round, then. And then, we will attempt to fake your demise and get you through one more round. As for the favor you owe me... may I collect it at a later date? Within reason.
( there's a quiet intensity to the way shanks watches set, waiting for a decision he can't predict from set's expression alone. maybe if shanks knew better the small intricacies, were better at reading the minute shift of sand β but the desert is unfamiliar to him, a man who has spent nearly his whole life at sea, accustomed more to the ripple of waves than the stillness of dunes.
set's hand is warm where it meets his jaw, the tension melting under the pressure of set's thumb. shanks reaches for set's wrist, not to pull it away, but to return the point of contact, half-considering simply taking set's hand in his, threading together sand and sea. )
Within reason. ( this, they can both agree on. ) Are you sure you want to use my vote this round?
( then again, maybe it's too much of a risk not to, if the ruse of his death isn't successful, and he doesn't take set for someone who enjoys wasting opportunities. )
set's hand is warm where it meets his jaw, the tension melting under the pressure of set's thumb. shanks reaches for set's wrist, not to pull it away, but to return the point of contact, half-considering simply taking set's hand in his, threading together sand and sea. )
Within reason. ( this, they can both agree on. ) Are you sure you want to use my vote this round?
( then again, maybe it's too much of a risk not to, if the ruse of his death isn't successful, and he doesn't take set for someone who enjoys wasting opportunities. )
[ What a terribly bold man, to take hold of him in return. Set is taken back to just the other night, and the pressure of Shanks's hand on his waist β the forceful way he was dragged up and into the press of their mouths. He's not a small man by any means, a thing of broad-shoulders and trim waist, and yet there are men who diminish him when he stands beside them.
To stand between Horus and the foreigner was to feel small. A light and fleeting thing, built for evasiveness and guile rather than the brute force he pretended was his leading strength. Shanks is like that, even-tempered and broad. Set slinks closer, a predator crawling in for a kill. ]
Why not? If you live, all I have to do is ask you nicely for another.
[ His wrist twists slowly in Shanks's hold, fingers fanning across the man's mouth. ]
To stand between Horus and the foreigner was to feel small. A light and fleeting thing, built for evasiveness and guile rather than the brute force he pretended was his leading strength. Shanks is like that, even-tempered and broad. Set slinks closer, a predator crawling in for a kill. ]
Why not? If you live, all I have to do is ask you nicely for another.
[ His wrist twists slowly in Shanks's hold, fingers fanning across the man's mouth. ]
( he hums in consideration, lips quirking slightly, his palm sliding up the back of set's hand as he presses a kiss to the lithe fingers splayed against his mouth. )
Hmm. ( gently, he guides set's hand down the bare column of his neck, down to the exposed plane of his chest, his gaze never straying from set's eyes, red as the blaze of his own haki. there's an amusing irony in it, somewhere, to be known for the power of divine departure, when here he sits drawing in the presence of the divine. ) Surely you wouldn't waste a favor on another vote. Unless your plan is to simply exploit my generosity.
( see, he knows exactly what this is, and he is allowing it to happen regardless. for the time being, anyway. he could just as easily decide to stop playing nice β but as things stand now, there's no harm in it, really. the tide will only turn if anything happens to his friends, or if he suspects anything might happen to them as a result of his conspiring with a god. )
Hmm. ( gently, he guides set's hand down the bare column of his neck, down to the exposed plane of his chest, his gaze never straying from set's eyes, red as the blaze of his own haki. there's an amusing irony in it, somewhere, to be known for the power of divine departure, when here he sits drawing in the presence of the divine. ) Surely you wouldn't waste a favor on another vote. Unless your plan is to simply exploit my generosity.
( see, he knows exactly what this is, and he is allowing it to happen regardless. for the time being, anyway. he could just as easily decide to stop playing nice β but as things stand now, there's no harm in it, really. the tide will only turn if anything happens to his friends, or if he suspects anything might happen to them as a result of his conspiring with a god. )
[ SIGH. ]
No, no. I am saying that I would not spend your favor on a vote, I would ask nicely.
[ In a way, Set is both predictable and unpredictable. The minute details of his schemes are effervescent, lightning-quick and fluid β trapping him in a corner is difficult, for he will dart to the next ploy, to the next. He retreats when he must, and feels no shame over what tactics he utilizes. However, to know whom he is as a god ( his divine parameters, the requirements upon his existence β ) is to know what guides him, ultimately.
His fingers twitch, when Shanks kisses them. When he slides them to his chest, by way of his throat. Those red eyes of his follow in their wake, to the sharp jut of the man's collarbone, the strong swell of his chest. ( Somewhere on the network is record of Set asking for intimacy lessons, for the expansion of his knowledge. ) He knows the importance of transaction, and of using his own body to any and all ends. Set is slow to warm to seduction, even if he toys with others as if he is seducing them. Is that something Shanks knows as well? Is he doing just that, right now? ]
I will "kill" you, Shanks. I've an idea how already. Go to the lake after the voting ends, and at that point tell your friends you are meeting with "Danny Johnson" about his potential identity as a Werewolf. If he is not voted upon. If he is... I will text you another name for the same purpose.
[ He flattens his hand, slowly. Pushing it across the muscle of the man's chest, curling the pads of his fingers in hard, until he divots the flesh below. ]
No, no. I am saying that I would not spend your favor on a vote, I would ask nicely.
[ In a way, Set is both predictable and unpredictable. The minute details of his schemes are effervescent, lightning-quick and fluid β trapping him in a corner is difficult, for he will dart to the next ploy, to the next. He retreats when he must, and feels no shame over what tactics he utilizes. However, to know whom he is as a god ( his divine parameters, the requirements upon his existence β ) is to know what guides him, ultimately.
His fingers twitch, when Shanks kisses them. When he slides them to his chest, by way of his throat. Those red eyes of his follow in their wake, to the sharp jut of the man's collarbone, the strong swell of his chest. ( Somewhere on the network is record of Set asking for intimacy lessons, for the expansion of his knowledge. ) He knows the importance of transaction, and of using his own body to any and all ends. Set is slow to warm to seduction, even if he toys with others as if he is seducing them. Is that something Shanks knows as well? Is he doing just that, right now? ]
I will "kill" you, Shanks. I've an idea how already. Go to the lake after the voting ends, and at that point tell your friends you are meeting with "Danny Johnson" about his potential identity as a Werewolf. If he is not voted upon. If he is... I will text you another name for the same purpose.
[ He flattens his hand, slowly. Pushing it across the muscle of the man's chest, curling the pads of his fingers in hard, until he divots the flesh below. ]
Edited 2024-10-14 22:58 (UTC)
( shanks grins, lazy as a rising tide, a soundless laugh reaching his eyes. )
I'll look forward to it, then. ( set asking nicely, he means. maybe he might even say yes again, if it's nice enough. if he lives long enough. the bar could always be higher than please.
but there's no obfuscation in his touch when his hand slips over set's waist, light as a feather, warm as the sun, asking a question that remains voiceless between them: is this okay? it's a distraction, perhaps, from the swelling panic he's been swallowing since this morning, that he still finds himself choking on when he thinks of what could have happened β what could still happen. that doesn't make the kindling desire in his chest any less real, though. one way or another, he's certain they would have found themselves here, like this, regardless of the game they happen to be playing. regardless of the fact that shanks has never been particularly good at seducing anybody, even as evasive and cheeky as he can be. most of the time, he's just kind enough to know what people want and generous enough to offer it freely.
his eyes seem to brighten at set's declaration, his hand on set's waist becoming more solid, an anchor hoisted from the depths of the sea, beckoning set forward. )
And after that? ( softly, conspiratorially, leaning into set's touch, the weight of his hand, heat coiling low in shanks' belly. he tilts his head, mouth parted. parched, as only a man who yearns for the sea can be in the face of endless, magnificent desert. wondering, if perhaps they're having a second conversation, one that has less to do with subterfuge and more to do with something else: this nameless, unspoken desire swirling between them, not yet a sandstorm, not yet a typhoon, not yet destructive but no less hungry. )
I'll look forward to it, then. ( set asking nicely, he means. maybe he might even say yes again, if it's nice enough. if he lives long enough. the bar could always be higher than please.
but there's no obfuscation in his touch when his hand slips over set's waist, light as a feather, warm as the sun, asking a question that remains voiceless between them: is this okay? it's a distraction, perhaps, from the swelling panic he's been swallowing since this morning, that he still finds himself choking on when he thinks of what could have happened β what could still happen. that doesn't make the kindling desire in his chest any less real, though. one way or another, he's certain they would have found themselves here, like this, regardless of the game they happen to be playing. regardless of the fact that shanks has never been particularly good at seducing anybody, even as evasive and cheeky as he can be. most of the time, he's just kind enough to know what people want and generous enough to offer it freely.
his eyes seem to brighten at set's declaration, his hand on set's waist becoming more solid, an anchor hoisted from the depths of the sea, beckoning set forward. )
And after that? ( softly, conspiratorially, leaning into set's touch, the weight of his hand, heat coiling low in shanks' belly. he tilts his head, mouth parted. parched, as only a man who yearns for the sea can be in the face of endless, magnificent desert. wondering, if perhaps they're having a second conversation, one that has less to do with subterfuge and more to do with something else: this nameless, unspoken desire swirling between them, not yet a sandstorm, not yet a typhoon, not yet destructive but no less hungry. )
Where do you think that hand is wandering, hm?
[ Not one to hold his tongue, his lip curls a little at the warm press of Shanks's hand to his body; Set never wears much, to be sure. His typical attire consists of golden jewelry and the black shendyt currently stretching tight over his thighs, knees parting as he walks them forward β slowly, deliberately bracketing Shanks's hips in a straddle. Nearing a point where he cannot turn back without casting a sour pall upon the thread of tension between them.
He'd never say he was drawn to anyone. Lust, seduction, sex β all are tools that he uses, rather than delves into with the fullness of his head and heart. Nephthys was the only soul he'd ever truly given himself over to, and the others who had him were those who had only sought dominance over an undefeated god, control of an elusive creature, or to take out their sick desires on someone who could not be killed. He wouldn't say he feels the stirring of want easily, nor evocatively β but, he does feel a strange heat simmering in his belly, one that has grown since meeting Shanks in the bar. Since hearing him speak of the blue-haired pirate he'd clearly give the world as a gift to.
Adoration ( devotion ) like that, is something he's drawn to. He is a god, after all. ]
What an audacious man. You will get what I deign to give you.
[ There's no anger in the words, only a buzzing sort of amusement. Set cranes himself up and over the tilt of Shanks's face, free hand sweeping aside hair as red as his own before he descends upon him. Mouth pressing warm and full to Shanks's own, his eyes closing as he pursues that little tug of wantneed he hasn't a clue how to follow. Thighs tight, strong even as he dips his weight into the cradle of the other man's lap. ]
[ Not one to hold his tongue, his lip curls a little at the warm press of Shanks's hand to his body; Set never wears much, to be sure. His typical attire consists of golden jewelry and the black shendyt currently stretching tight over his thighs, knees parting as he walks them forward β slowly, deliberately bracketing Shanks's hips in a straddle. Nearing a point where he cannot turn back without casting a sour pall upon the thread of tension between them.
He'd never say he was drawn to anyone. Lust, seduction, sex β all are tools that he uses, rather than delves into with the fullness of his head and heart. Nephthys was the only soul he'd ever truly given himself over to, and the others who had him were those who had only sought dominance over an undefeated god, control of an elusive creature, or to take out their sick desires on someone who could not be killed. He wouldn't say he feels the stirring of want easily, nor evocatively β but, he does feel a strange heat simmering in his belly, one that has grown since meeting Shanks in the bar. Since hearing him speak of the blue-haired pirate he'd clearly give the world as a gift to.
Adoration ( devotion ) like that, is something he's drawn to. He is a god, after all. ]
What an audacious man. You will get what I deign to give you.
[ There's no anger in the words, only a buzzing sort of amusement. Set cranes himself up and over the tilt of Shanks's face, free hand sweeping aside hair as red as his own before he descends upon him. Mouth pressing warm and full to Shanks's own, his eyes closing as he pursues that little tug of wantneed he hasn't a clue how to follow. Thighs tight, strong even as he dips his weight into the cradle of the other man's lap. ]
Edited 2024-10-15 18:48 (UTC)
There is a bar in the hunting lodge. I have been wanting to see the locale anyways. We shall meet there.
[ he can kill two birds with one stone, this way; examining what passes for hunting in this place, and meeting with the delightful aemond targaryen ]
[ he can kill two birds with one stone, this way; examining what passes for hunting in this place, and meeting with the delightful aemond targaryen ]
I know of the place. I will be there within the hour.
[ and he is punctual to a fault, arriving at the hunting lodge with a handful of minutes to spare. he's dressed down, which for him means none of his usual leathers, though he takes care to slide an offered knife into his waist holster, and another into his boot.
it never hurts to be careful.
he casts around to sight the red-haired man, or perhaps to hear his overloud voice booming across the quiet space. surely he's not late? ]
[ and he is punctual to a fault, arriving at the hunting lodge with a handful of minutes to spare. he's dressed down, which for him means none of his usual leathers, though he takes care to slide an offered knife into his waist holster, and another into his boot.
it never hurts to be careful.
he casts around to sight the red-haired man, or perhaps to hear his overloud voice booming across the quiet space. surely he's not late? ]
[ Compared to many, Set is always "dressed down"; shining gold jewelry and exposed skin, a black shendyt wrapped around his hips. A creature made for the desert β extreme heat, bitter cold.
He's puttering in one of the adjoining rooms, when Aemond arrives. The sound of clattering woods and the brief racking of a shotgun heralds his arrival, as he walks out with the weapon held in his hands. Is it loaded? God fucking knows. ]
Aemond! What might I provide to you?
He's puttering in one of the adjoining rooms, when Aemond arrives. The sound of clattering woods and the brief racking of a shotgun heralds his arrival, as he walks out with the weapon held in his hands. Is it loaded? God fucking knows. ]
Aemond! What might I provide to you?
Edited 2024-10-21 16:46 (UTC)
[ he supposes the thing in his hand is a weapon, but aemond does not feel threatened. he does show some distaste for the excess of skin on display. it's rather egregious, given the warm decor of the lodge. ]
Some of your wisdom would be welcome, Set. And a bit of your weapons expertise.
You are an expert, yes?
Some of your wisdom would be welcome, Set. And a bit of your weapons expertise.
You are an expert, yes?
[ heartbreaking that they'll get along so well and then the Truth Comes Out Does Set Is Threaten Aemond's Mommy/Family? later on ]
I am. All weapons are made in the image of war, and I am war itself.
[ It's not just a boast, when he says it between himself and one other person. There's a divine gravity to his words, a depth β echoing and resolute, that would mark such a proclamation as providence, as truth-beyond-reproach. It's not like the claims he makes when he's cavorting gleefully around others, embellishing aspects of himself. Set does not lie. But, he is a trickster at his core.
He slings the shotgun across his shoulders, strolling towards Aemond with a broadening smile. ]
Would you like lessons, is that it? I am a difficult taskmaster, but the prowess of my warriors is undeniable. Never once have my lands fallen to invaders.
I am. All weapons are made in the image of war, and I am war itself.
[ It's not just a boast, when he says it between himself and one other person. There's a divine gravity to his words, a depth β echoing and resolute, that would mark such a proclamation as providence, as truth-beyond-reproach. It's not like the claims he makes when he's cavorting gleefully around others, embellishing aspects of himself. Set does not lie. But, he is a trickster at his core.
He slings the shotgun across his shoulders, strolling towards Aemond with a broadening smile. ]
Would you like lessons, is that it? I am a difficult taskmaster, but the prowess of my warriors is undeniable. Never once have my lands fallen to invaders.
I am a diligent student and always, but you should not mistake me for one of your own. I mean to build myself a weapon. I'm like to hear what your thoughts would be for the best kind.
[ protection. that's one of his biggest motivators, especially with this cursed game in progress. he can appreciate set's arrogance, if not the intelligence lacking in his actions as of recent. the man is... eccentric, detrimentally so. ]
Shall we sit?
[ protection. that's one of his biggest motivators, especially with this cursed game in progress. he can appreciate set's arrogance, if not the intelligence lacking in his actions as of recent. the man is... eccentric, detrimentally so. ]
Shall we sit?
Those who partake in war are always mine. That is as inevitable as the sun rising at dawn, to set in the eve. Balk and bare teeth as you will, it will never be within your power to escape my domain.
[ He doesn't sound harsh as he speaks it; there is an unmistakable power in his words. The suffocating, fearsome weight of an ancient, endless being that speaks not in whim or potential, but in concrete fact. Ah. If only he could actively access the memories of the time he built a railgun and nuked half a city for Aemond to know of, sighs. ]
Unless you become a pacifist.
[ Set sits. The shotgun resting over his lap as he begins to dismantle it, eyes fixated upon the man before him; his hands work independent, field stripping the tool slowly, surely. Sand billows in thin ribbons from his wrists to unscrew portions, pry free coil and lever. A shell sits on his thigh, for later. ]
Not a bad idea. Close to mine own. Very well. To begin: tell me what your purpose for it is. A weapon must always have a use.
[ He doesn't sound harsh as he speaks it; there is an unmistakable power in his words. The suffocating, fearsome weight of an ancient, endless being that speaks not in whim or potential, but in concrete fact. Ah. If only he could actively access the memories of the time he built a railgun and nuked half a city for Aemond to know of, sighs. ]
Unless you become a pacifist.
[ Set sits. The shotgun resting over his lap as he begins to dismantle it, eyes fixated upon the man before him; his hands work independent, field stripping the tool slowly, surely. Sand billows in thin ribbons from his wrists to unscrew portions, pry free coil and lever. A shell sits on his thigh, for later. ]
Not a bad idea. Close to mine own. Very well. To begin: tell me what your purpose for it is. A weapon must always have a use.
[ Set describes his quarters from the windows inward, because he rarely utilizes the hall door to access them. He's half a mind to force Armand to seek him out via the window, a challenge always eager to be spoken by his tongue, yet awaits with both window and door open to grant him wordless permission. Flattery gets you everywhere. With his hip balanced against the elegant vanity tucked across from his sleek, humbly-sized bed, he shuffles through some last minute readings β looking up only when he thinks the vampire with the pretty eyes is finally approaching. ( He'd smell him in the air, if the game had not stuffed cotton in his senses and swaddled him in a neutralizing power. ) ]
[ Considering the ways the house twists and warps itself, finding the windows is the easiest way for Armand to find the rooms, so he does in fact opt for that entrance. And it doesn't take him long, with his vampire senses -- he slides down out of the sky like a wraith, barefoot and dressed in loose black clothes, low cut at the throat and high above his ankles.
He alights on the sill and climbs in, his attention fixed on Set from the first moment. There's an old world familiarity about the room; his blood throbs with the song of the sand, the call of the muezzin as it rings through a city's streets, thrilling with the presence of ancient power. It would be blasphemy to prostrate himself before the desert god, but that crime is far from his worst at the moment, so as soon as he's close enough he sinks to his knees before him. Desperate, hungry for something he can't name. ]
My Lord.
He alights on the sill and climbs in, his attention fixed on Set from the first moment. There's an old world familiarity about the room; his blood throbs with the song of the sand, the call of the muezzin as it rings through a city's streets, thrilling with the presence of ancient power. It would be blasphemy to prostrate himself before the desert god, but that crime is far from his worst at the moment, so as soon as he's close enough he sinks to his knees before him. Desperate, hungry for something he can't name. ]
My Lord.
[ The power of a vampire remains known only to him by the word of others alone; the description of predator and parasite, neither alive nor dead piques his interest. Sparks a flurry of embers behind his ribs, like he ought to learn-know-remember more that he cannot actively draw to the surface of the dark, vast sea of his existence. Armand says they are not natural beings, and certainly, they usurp the natural order of things ( life, to death, to rebirth ) β but, as someone who once broke that same cycle over his knee, how he is to spurn such creatures?
Especially when they come to him, sweet-mouthed and devoted, upon knees and speaking words that he both craves to hear, and to tear from mouths of others.
Paper falls from his fingers, discarded across the surface of the vanity without second thought. Let it fall to the floor if he misses the table, for all he cares. Let the subtle chaos and destruction within his room be added to, as he uncrosses his ankles and presses up to full height, from where he's been leaning. ( He would not say, at this point in time, that he like-likes men, not the way others within the manor do, but it would be a lie to say he does not enjoy the sight of men on their knees. ) ]
Let's not waste either of our time, hm?
[ He steps forward, fingers light upon the plane of the other's cheek. Stroking the side of a nail down to Armand's jaw, to curl fingers, one, two, four, along the underside of his chin. To bend at the waist sends his hair, a curtain of red silk, to fall across Armand's face as he tips it up as if to turn a flower toward the sun. He needs. Set can provide. ]
You may sate yourself upon me, however you need. I will get what I want from you, as well.
Especially when they come to him, sweet-mouthed and devoted, upon knees and speaking words that he both craves to hear, and to tear from mouths of others.
Paper falls from his fingers, discarded across the surface of the vanity without second thought. Let it fall to the floor if he misses the table, for all he cares. Let the subtle chaos and destruction within his room be added to, as he uncrosses his ankles and presses up to full height, from where he's been leaning. ( He would not say, at this point in time, that he like-likes men, not the way others within the manor do, but it would be a lie to say he does not enjoy the sight of men on their knees. ) ]
Let's not waste either of our time, hm?
[ He steps forward, fingers light upon the plane of the other's cheek. Stroking the side of a nail down to Armand's jaw, to curl fingers, one, two, four, along the underside of his chin. To bend at the waist sends his hair, a curtain of red silk, to fall across Armand's face as he tips it up as if to turn a flower toward the sun. He needs. Set can provide. ]
You may sate yourself upon me, however you need. I will get what I want from you, as well.
[ Vampires were desert creatures before they were anything else, born from Akasha's curse, the call of the dry sands passed down through the blood they all share. Armand doesn't know as much about it as he should, but as he looks up into Set's eyes he's aware of a rightness in his body and soul, a feeling almost like coming home to a place he has never been.
Without protest, he allows himself to be handled, lips parting slightly as his pupils dilate like a cat's. Maker and unmaker, he would surrender himself to anything Set wished to do with him. Oblivion beckons, the silent mind of the perfect slave. ]
Yes. [ He sighs the word, a grateful supplicant. Carefully, without lowering his gaze, he reaches out a hand to skate his own fingertips up Set's thigh to his crotch, lightly stroking what he finds there. ]
Without protest, he allows himself to be handled, lips parting slightly as his pupils dilate like a cat's. Maker and unmaker, he would surrender himself to anything Set wished to do with him. Oblivion beckons, the silent mind of the perfect slave. ]
Yes. [ He sighs the word, a grateful supplicant. Carefully, without lowering his gaze, he reaches out a hand to skate his own fingertips up Set's thigh to his crotch, lightly stroking what he finds there. ]
[ There is a soft hum of pleasure-trepidation within him, while observing Armand: his willingness to submit, the perfect way in which he takes to a place Set has little desire to inhabit. He feels that hand brush high, and reaches with his own free fingers to the bottom edge of the black shendyt he wears most commonly. Lifting the cloth higher across his strong thighs, as the hand that cradles Armand's jaw firmly, purposely leads him forward toward the line of his cock.
One day he will learn of the root origins of this creature's kind, and some natural part of him will treasure them for their strangeness.
The soft whsk of sands flowing across one another fills the air with sound, the pressure of fine, loosely packed grains moving independent of wind and gravity slipping into the cradle of Armand's knees. Winding like serpents around his hips, pale living ribbon that twists toward those wrists. Holding them, unrestrictive. A reminder. ]
Just mouth.
One day he will learn of the root origins of this creature's kind, and some natural part of him will treasure them for their strangeness.
The soft whsk of sands flowing across one another fills the air with sound, the pressure of fine, loosely packed grains moving independent of wind and gravity slipping into the cradle of Armand's knees. Winding like serpents around his hips, pale living ribbon that twists toward those wrists. Holding them, unrestrictive. A reminder. ]
Just mouth.
[ The display of easy power is no surprise to Armand. He accepts it as he's accepted everything else since setting foot through the window, even going so far as to put his arms behind his back, taking hold of his own wrists to allow the sand-ropes to wind more effectively around him. It's a pose he's held many times before, though most of the memories are lost -- but the body keeps the score, as Daniel reminds him, and he knows how to do it without thinking.
He leans in carefully to put his mouth reverently to the heavy line of the desert god's soft cock, small licks and kisses, his fangs kept back. Amadeo's skill, this, not Armand's. He angles his head down to take the fat head briefly into his mouth, giving it a gentle suck as he glances upwards through his lashes, checking that his work is well received. ]
He leans in carefully to put his mouth reverently to the heavy line of the desert god's soft cock, small licks and kisses, his fangs kept back. Amadeo's skill, this, not Armand's. He angles his head down to take the fat head briefly into his mouth, giving it a gentle suck as he glances upwards through his lashes, checking that his work is well received. ]
[ The beauty in Set's power is in the versatility, the way in which he has more limbs than not. Armand tucks his arms behind his spine with ease, and the sands coil loose around his supplicant's body, without need to push or pull because he is so willing. It leaves his hands free, to do otherwise with. For now, he traces his fingers across Armand's brow β pushing aside dark strands of hair to better look at his brilliant eyes. Luminous and warm.
Perhaps he is slow to warm, even while those eyes look upon him with reverence. The heat of Armand's mouth wrapped around him elicits a faint animal-thrum in his chest; the rolling gurgle of a leonine purr, the bone-quaking low of a distant crocodile. A sweet ache stirs in his thighs, as he steps forward and out to straddle the kneeling figure of the vampire below, nudging the head of his cock past those lips. ]
β would you enjoy having your face mounted, Armand?
[ The arched, elegant sound of his voice makes the base way he questions the act that much more filthy. ]
Perhaps he is slow to warm, even while those eyes look upon him with reverence. The heat of Armand's mouth wrapped around him elicits a faint animal-thrum in his chest; the rolling gurgle of a leonine purr, the bone-quaking low of a distant crocodile. A sweet ache stirs in his thighs, as he steps forward and out to straddle the kneeling figure of the vampire below, nudging the head of his cock past those lips. ]
β would you enjoy having your face mounted, Armand?
[ The arched, elegant sound of his voice makes the base way he questions the act that much more filthy. ]
[ The cock that slides into his mouth tastes like the mineral salts of a brackish oasis pool, the sweetness of the date fattening on the palm, blood drying in the sun. Armand sinks into the sensations, Set's warm hands moving over his face, his muscled thighs warming the air either side of him and bracketing his vision. Shrinking his awareness into the familiar and unfamiliar.
He hollows his cheeks, relaxes his throat. An advantage Set is soon to discover about face-fucking a vampire: he doesn't need to breathe. Though soft puffs of breath escape him anyway, instinctive reactions of his body he doesn't bother to shut down, assuming Set might enjoy witnessing a struggle. The same for the blood-tinged tears that gather in the corners of his eyes as his jaw stretches to accommodate Set sliding down into his throat, making soft choked noises of effort.
Like this, he can't really nod, but his acceptance is in the way his eyelids flutter, the yearning heiroglyph of his body as he leans into it, bobs his head to take him deeper, aching tongue working as he swallows around him. ]
He hollows his cheeks, relaxes his throat. An advantage Set is soon to discover about face-fucking a vampire: he doesn't need to breathe. Though soft puffs of breath escape him anyway, instinctive reactions of his body he doesn't bother to shut down, assuming Set might enjoy witnessing a struggle. The same for the blood-tinged tears that gather in the corners of his eyes as his jaw stretches to accommodate Set sliding down into his throat, making soft choked noises of effort.
Like this, he can't really nod, but his acceptance is in the way his eyelids flutter, the yearning heiroglyph of his body as he leans into it, bobs his head to take him deeper, aching tongue working as he swallows around him. ]
[ He rolls the hem of his shendyt high enough to tuck it into the snug waistline, so that the material does not fall back upon Armand's face. He wants to see it, study it.
The pleasure in his taking of Set's cock is β well, it is entirely foreign to him. The enjoyment, even as tears of red build in his eyes, lingers there upon him. It is in the suckle of his mouth, the submission of his figure. Yet, how does one come to personally enjoy such an act, though? Does one have to be born for it? Is it a matter of experience, or training, or perhaps β is it a casual lie to assure the other? Is Armand truly looking back at him, aware and alert, or has his mind drifted elsewhere? ( Because Set cannot envision himself in the same position. On his knees, with someone's cock in his mouth. Not again. Not while feeling pleasure of his own. )
He studies Armand like one might look upon an insect, like he wants to peel apart his skin and find the fine filigree of his wings below the shell. Pull open his mouth and look down his throat into the dark hollow of his body.
Instead, he cradles Armand's jaw and feeds him his cock β purring faintly at the physical pleasure of the moment. It feels good for him, even as his mind races at a distance. Holding him steady as he draws his hips back, feeling the slide of his flesh within the wet of Armand's mouth. Then, straddling his face a little closer, he slips a hand into the dark coils of his hair and fucks into him again. A small gasp of pleasure huffed from his own throat, jaw softened. Again. Quicker now. Again, a little harder. ]
The pleasure in his taking of Set's cock is β well, it is entirely foreign to him. The enjoyment, even as tears of red build in his eyes, lingers there upon him. It is in the suckle of his mouth, the submission of his figure. Yet, how does one come to personally enjoy such an act, though? Does one have to be born for it? Is it a matter of experience, or training, or perhaps β is it a casual lie to assure the other? Is Armand truly looking back at him, aware and alert, or has his mind drifted elsewhere? ( Because Set cannot envision himself in the same position. On his knees, with someone's cock in his mouth. Not again. Not while feeling pleasure of his own. )
He studies Armand like one might look upon an insect, like he wants to peel apart his skin and find the fine filigree of his wings below the shell. Pull open his mouth and look down his throat into the dark hollow of his body.
Instead, he cradles Armand's jaw and feeds him his cock β purring faintly at the physical pleasure of the moment. It feels good for him, even as his mind races at a distance. Holding him steady as he draws his hips back, feeling the slide of his flesh within the wet of Armand's mouth. Then, straddling his face a little closer, he slips a hand into the dark coils of his hair and fucks into him again. A small gasp of pleasure huffed from his own throat, jaw softened. Again. Quicker now. Again, a little harder. ]
[ There's a bright blankness in Armand's eyes, like water pooled in beaten copper bowls, reflecting back the merciless heat of Set's regard. His throat vibrates with a moan that has nowhere to go, choked around the god's cock, pleasure and pain intermingled and running in cold and bloody lines down the sides of his cheeks. He takes each thrust, hands tightening on his wrists behind his back but otherwise passive, his own body responding in kind, making him lift his hips a little, longing, leaning into each slide of Set's cock into his throat.
A deep, black silence rises up in his mind, a brackish tide that tugs at him as his body takes over, aware only of Set. Each thin breath he manages to pull in is thick with the god's musky scent, sweat and sun-baked stone. Fat thick cock jamming his jaw open, hand fisted in his hair, the ancient power that thrums through the desert god's veins. The pounding of Set's heart, like the clashing of swords, the great drum that blocks out the rest of the world. His own body is a vessel, empty, waiting to be filled, and that's okay. He knows the emptiness. Has long since forgotten how to fight it. Now it brings him comfort, to be gone for a while. To remember what it was like, the fractured times. Younger, softer, more pliable. Before he died and became Armand.
Armand closes his eyes as Set fucks him, lashes fluttering, the renaissance curves of his cheeks wet with joyous tears. ]
A deep, black silence rises up in his mind, a brackish tide that tugs at him as his body takes over, aware only of Set. Each thin breath he manages to pull in is thick with the god's musky scent, sweat and sun-baked stone. Fat thick cock jamming his jaw open, hand fisted in his hair, the ancient power that thrums through the desert god's veins. The pounding of Set's heart, like the clashing of swords, the great drum that blocks out the rest of the world. His own body is a vessel, empty, waiting to be filled, and that's okay. He knows the emptiness. Has long since forgotten how to fight it. Now it brings him comfort, to be gone for a while. To remember what it was like, the fractured times. Younger, softer, more pliable. Before he died and became Armand.
Armand closes his eyes as Set fucks him, lashes fluttering, the renaissance curves of his cheeks wet with joyous tears. ]
[ It comes to him, slow waves of recognition, that Armand does not need to breathe. His throat remains soft, his body slack with that distant pleasure. While Set has not had a wide variety of sex, especially with anyone other than his ( former ) wife, he knows enough that he'd expect anyone who isn't divine ought to need to breath. The lack of struggle is β some darker, richer part of him cannot latch onto it, to drive upon Armand like a predator seeking the writhing of prey. What he can do is hold those dark curls, wound firm around his fingers; his free hand spreads before Armand's eyes, using the tips of his forefinger and ring to blot out those copper depths.
He's like something that Hathor would decorate her temple with. Beautiful, ornate. Something that the goddess of beauty would keep for herself, until the next pretty thing came along to adorn her. Ruining him on his cock is β it feels good. All pretty eyes and clutching mouth, while Set's hips stay slow, steady, deep. As he strokes his fingers down his face, smearing trails of red tears with attentive purpose.
From sharp-eyed predator, to beatific worshipper. What multitudes this one carries. ]
Ease back.
[ As if it's not Set using his face, but Armand driving onto him.
He draws his hips back, wet and aching and regretful already. Ribbons of sand flow continuously, lacing back and forth around Armand's hips. They tighten, little by little, to draw him weightless and powerful across the floor; elevated, levitating the way he had arrived to the door, as Set flicks his tear-stained fingers and casts him on the bed. ]
Not that we need to be comfortable, but I really do not use the bed otherwise.
He's like something that Hathor would decorate her temple with. Beautiful, ornate. Something that the goddess of beauty would keep for herself, until the next pretty thing came along to adorn her. Ruining him on his cock is β it feels good. All pretty eyes and clutching mouth, while Set's hips stay slow, steady, deep. As he strokes his fingers down his face, smearing trails of red tears with attentive purpose.
From sharp-eyed predator, to beatific worshipper. What multitudes this one carries. ]
Ease back.
[ As if it's not Set using his face, but Armand driving onto him.
He draws his hips back, wet and aching and regretful already. Ribbons of sand flow continuously, lacing back and forth around Armand's hips. They tighten, little by little, to draw him weightless and powerful across the floor; elevated, levitating the way he had arrived to the door, as Set flicks his tear-stained fingers and casts him on the bed. ]
Not that we need to be comfortable, but I really do not use the bed otherwise.
Edited 2024-10-27 23:44 (UTC)
I don't believe that. And anyway, you should know I don't care a lot about how people were "made". I care about what people DO.
And it's not a game to me. It's not. It's one of the worst things I've ever had to do, over and over and over and it's ruined so much and I hate it.
And if anything else happens to someone I love, I'm going to lose my mind.
So I'm asking you nicely, please.
And it's not a game to me. It's not. It's one of the worst things I've ever had to do, over and over and over and it's ruined so much and I hate it.
And if anything else happens to someone I love, I'm going to lose my mind.
So I'm asking you nicely, please.
Your belief does not matter, only mortals have the ability to change and "do", free of will.
[ this is an explanation as much as an apology as much as a warning ]
"Nice" is not worth much to me.
I understand your strain, but β I really do need to win. There is a way for me to do so without bringing harm to your crew, naturally.
[ this is an explanation as much as an apology as much as a warning ]
"Nice" is not worth much to me.
I understand your strain, but β I really do need to win. There is a way for me to do so without bringing harm to your crew, naturally.
Says who?
[It's a childish response and Koby knows it, and that just makes him more cranky.
Still. "Naturally" isn't a promise or a guarantee, but it's a note of consideration. That's something, for Set.]
Do you? Understand, I mean.
And thank you. I don't care if your goal is to win. I'll forfeit or whatever right now, if you want it so badly. I don't care about winning. I just don't want to lose anyone else.
[It's a childish response and Koby knows it, and that just makes him more cranky.
Still. "Naturally" isn't a promise or a guarantee, but it's a note of consideration. That's something, for Set.]
Do you? Understand, I mean.
And thank you. I don't care if your goal is to win. I'll forfeit or whatever right now, if you want it so badly. I don't care about winning. I just don't want to lose anyone else.
The world.
[ Text alone cannot convey the severity with which he would have audibly said it. ]
I am not unfamiliar with similar situations. Needing to keep my warriors alive against a difficult foe, having to study and formulate tactics in rapid succession to counter and surpass. This game is not unlike war, to me.
If only forfeit would work, I would accept the public submission of you and yours in exchange for leaving them be! For now, I could use your voting bloc. Or, if any of yours are willing to thin the rest of the herd...
[ Text alone cannot convey the severity with which he would have audibly said it. ]
I am not unfamiliar with similar situations. Needing to keep my warriors alive against a difficult foe, having to study and formulate tactics in rapid succession to counter and surpass. This game is not unlike war, to me.
If only forfeit would work, I would accept the public submission of you and yours in exchange for leaving them be! For now, I could use your voting bloc. Or, if any of yours are willing to thin the rest of the herd...
Well.
That's stupid. And unfair.
[Therefore!!! Rejected.]
That's not really what the problem is. It'd be simpler if it were, if this were all about strategy and making the best tactical choices. I could do that forever.
It's when you make those choices and people you care about get angry or hurt or say you're disloyal or betraying them or being stupid. Or they just don't say anything, which is worse.
I don't think the Straw Hats would surrender. That's not really Luffy's thing. And if you're planning on killing people, you'd have to ask directly.
Besides. I think you have other things planned. You don't need me.
That's stupid. And unfair.
[Therefore!!! Rejected.]
That's not really what the problem is. It'd be simpler if it were, if this were all about strategy and making the best tactical choices. I could do that forever.
It's when you make those choices and people you care about get angry or hurt or say you're disloyal or betraying them or being stupid. Or they just don't say anything, which is worse.
I don't think the Straw Hats would surrender. That's not really Luffy's thing. And if you're planning on killing people, you'd have to ask directly.
Besides. I think you have other things planned. You don't need me.
[ We'll skip the conversation about whether or not allowing the entity with nigh-infinite power to have free will is unfair or NECESSARY for now. And also pause about the Straw Hats and whether or not they can be seen as enemies to remove or allies to partner with. ]
Mm, I believe I see your issue: you do not know how to form an effective strategy.
For starters, no strategy should be endless. It has an end goal in mind. For example, mine is "to win the game". The given conditions of victory are "to have the most number of individuals on a team", and nothing else. No matter what tactics I utilize during the course of the game, my overarching strategy maintains this as my direct goal.
Secondly, you must learn to accept that you are going to be seen as disloyal and traitorous to others if your tactics include "ensuring everyone walks away happy with me". People have their own goals that are often mutually exclusive. You must be prepared to stand above your connections with others, and not use their favorable perception of you as a weight upon the scale of effectiveness.
Either they will forgive you, or they will not, but that is not a choice you make for them.
Mm, I believe I see your issue: you do not know how to form an effective strategy.
For starters, no strategy should be endless. It has an end goal in mind. For example, mine is "to win the game". The given conditions of victory are "to have the most number of individuals on a team", and nothing else. No matter what tactics I utilize during the course of the game, my overarching strategy maintains this as my direct goal.
Secondly, you must learn to accept that you are going to be seen as disloyal and traitorous to others if your tactics include "ensuring everyone walks away happy with me". People have their own goals that are often mutually exclusive. You must be prepared to stand above your connections with others, and not use their favorable perception of you as a weight upon the scale of effectiveness.
Either they will forgive you, or they will not, but that is not a choice you make for them.
[Koby's about to argue, indignantly, but -- well. Isn't that the same problem Garp had pointed out? He thinks too much, he thinks and he worries and he makes himself sick over the possibilities, aims his mind to the potential of people being angry at him, hating him, leaving him. When does that go away? When does he stop lurching awake and reaching out to make sure he isn't still tucked alone into the corner of that dark, dank, damp hold?]
My goal is to keep as many people alive and safe as possible. I have to follow the rules of the game to do that. I have to assume that the visions are all real, or none of them are. So everyone named in a seer's vision needs to be voted a wolf. My crew's already at a disadvantage after last round, they need my vote.
It makes sense. It makes tactical sense to spread out the votes. Like we did.
[A pause, turning the rest of Set's words over and over in his head.]
It's about what I can live with. Not what I want, what I can endure.
You remind me of my commanding officer, you know. He thinks the same way.
My goal is to keep as many people alive and safe as possible. I have to follow the rules of the game to do that. I have to assume that the visions are all real, or none of them are. So everyone named in a seer's vision needs to be voted a wolf. My crew's already at a disadvantage after last round, they need my vote.
It makes sense. It makes tactical sense to spread out the votes. Like we did.
[A pause, turning the rest of Set's words over and over in his head.]
It's about what I can live with. Not what I want, what I can endure.
You remind me of my commanding officer, you know. He thinks the same way.
The roles are real. Doctors have saved people, witches have revived the dead. If, after that, people are still hemming and hawing over a Seer's vision, they are only being willfully stupid.
It may make tactical sense to spread out the vote, but there is a also quantifiable limit to however many individuals can be voted out. Even if you have multiple people with an equal number of votes between them, there must be a tie-breaking element.
In the end, if your goal is to ensure your crew survives β that is impossible without making sacrifices of your own. You have to value the lives of your crew over the lives of others.
[ It's a brutalist view of things, but pretty accurate. Wringing one's hands over making someone else upset does nothing toward the goal. ]
Hah! Do I really? You do know that I am a military leader in my own right: Egypt's greatest general. I spent millennia defending my lands from would-be invaders and enemies, you pick up a thing or two when you do that!
It may make tactical sense to spread out the vote, but there is a also quantifiable limit to however many individuals can be voted out. Even if you have multiple people with an equal number of votes between them, there must be a tie-breaking element.
In the end, if your goal is to ensure your crew survives β that is impossible without making sacrifices of your own. You have to value the lives of your crew over the lives of others.
[ It's a brutalist view of things, but pretty accurate. Wringing one's hands over making someone else upset does nothing toward the goal. ]
Hah! Do I really? You do know that I am a military leader in my own right: Egypt's greatest general. I spent millennia defending my lands from would-be invaders and enemies, you pick up a thing or two when you do that!
Exactly. We only have the rules to go off of, and we know the Balfours love rules. And the house loves chaos -- it's like they're constantly fighting against each other. Or balancing each other? It's like a parasitic relationship, I think. The house keeps them safe and they feed it on us.
Or something.
We've been lucky to not have a tie yet, you're right. I wonder if the Balfours will make the deciding vote? Or if there's another role not related -- the rules I found didn't mention a Witch. Only Seer, Doctor, Wolf and Villager. Perhaps there are more, outside the rules?
[There's a beat, because Koby sort of -- recognizes these points. Because he'd made them at the vote.]
Are you genuinely agreeing with me or are you trying to manipulate me towards something? I've already voted, I'm not much use to you.
Millennia? How old ARE you?
Right, Egypt. I've read a little about it. The books here are pretty limited, you were right. I still made a list for you, if
You know.
You still want it.
Or something.
We've been lucky to not have a tie yet, you're right. I wonder if the Balfours will make the deciding vote? Or if there's another role not related -- the rules I found didn't mention a Witch. Only Seer, Doctor, Wolf and Villager. Perhaps there are more, outside the rules?
[There's a beat, because Koby sort of -- recognizes these points. Because he'd made them at the vote.]
Are you genuinely agreeing with me or are you trying to manipulate me towards something? I've already voted, I'm not much use to you.
Millennia? How old ARE you?
Right, Egypt. I've read a little about it. The books here are pretty limited, you were right. I still made a list for you, if
You know.
You still want it.
Not really parasitic, in my eyes. Maat and isfet exist for one another, you cannot have order without chaos providing meaning to it. They are opposing, but also essential; to have one, and not the other, would unmake the world.
[ curious though ]
Very old. I precede humanity, for starters.
And I do. Still want the list. I enjoy recommendations, and learning new things is... a personal pleasure.
[ curious though ]
Very old. I precede humanity, for starters.
And I do. Still want the list. I enjoy recommendations, and learning new things is... a personal pleasure.
Parasitic is too harsh, I guess. Complimentary? Mutually beneficial? I'm not sure. Whatever it is, I don't believe the Balfours are innocent victims here.
What do those words mean?
Really? Then why are you
Like you are? [Deeply offensive, Kobert.]
I'll bring you them. Guns, Germs and Steel is good, a good overview, but The Wretched of the Earth was pretty eye-opening too. About this world, at least.
What do those words mean?
Really? Then why are you
Like you are? [Deeply offensive, Kobert.]
I'll bring you them. Guns, Germs and Steel is good, a good overview, but The Wretched of the Earth was pretty eye-opening too. About this world, at least.
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[ Tit for tat. ]
[ Having had a Bad Time using his x-ray vision earlier during the game, Homelander doesn't immediately resort to it, instead beginning to make his way through all of the (public) spaces in the mansion.
He does not, blessedly, think of the roof. ]
FINE
i'll see you for the vote, anyway!
He does not, blessedly, think of the roof. ]
FINE
i'll see you for the vote, anyway!
( the only problem with this little plan of theirs is that the interim, the biding of time, the waiting for the right moment to reveal everything ... is incredibly, extremely boring. there's very little to keep his mind distracted from what he knows the straw hats must be feeling β and for the first time since the game started, he's strangely relieved to have his senses dampened. could he simply reach out and feel that grief, that horror, the brewing anger, he imagines his resolve would quickly crumble under the weight of needing to look luffy and the others in the eye and tell them it's all okay, it was just a ruse.
instead, he has set and the too-familiar tug of something in his gut, something vaguely reminiscent of conspiring with buggy to prank captain roger, the thrill of a successfully executed scheme. leaning against a mound of pillows in a bedouin tent somewhere in a desert he isn't sure exists anywhere in this realm: )
How are things looking out there?
instead, he has set and the too-familiar tug of something in his gut, something vaguely reminiscent of conspiring with buggy to prank captain roger, the thrill of a successfully executed scheme. leaning against a mound of pillows in a bedouin tent somewhere in a desert he isn't sure exists anywhere in this realm: )
How are things looking out there?
( of course, when he doesn't hear back for a while, he assumes set is busy putting those contingencies in motion β but it's hot and the heat is making his headache worse and he can't even drink to stave off the boredom or until he blacks out or he'll wake up with a migraine twice as bad.
so. he strips down to nothing, throws on one of the robes conveniently lying around the tent, and sends a photo with the caption: )
How things are looking in here. ;-)
so. he strips down to nothing, throws on one of the robes conveniently lying around the tent, and sends a photo with the caption: )
How things are looking in here. ;-)
Daniil said he would give Usopp his vote against Lauralae. Daniil owes ME his vote.
Nami mocked me for being left behind, like she was. We called one another stupid.
This nose I must wear keeps SQUEAKING, and I think our ruse is over. The people who rip bodies apart to study them published their findings. They know the person I disguised as you is not you.
Nami mocked me for being left behind, like she was. We called one another stupid.
This nose I must wear keeps SQUEAKING, and I think our ruse is over. The people who rip bodies apart to study them published their findings. They know the person I disguised as you is not you.
( that β sure is a lot of things. shanks is still trying to parse it all (while deliberately ignoring the mention of a nose for now), but most importantly, because he really thought they'd have more time to not discuss murders and apparently-failed deceptions: )
I don't suppose we could continue that particular thread of conversation instead?
I imagine more than just my chest wasn't big enough.
( he's saying he has a fat dick, set. )
I don't suppose we could continue that particular thread of conversation instead?
I imagine more than just my chest wasn't big enough.
( he's saying he has a fat dick, set. )
( attached: definitely not a reused dick pic because finding a new one is too much effort!!! but also it is tastefully framed by the robe, which he is still wearing. it is Art.
then, as if reading set's mind β )
For next time.
( β by which he does not mean faking his death, actually. )
then, as if reading set's mind β )
For next time.
( β by which he does not mean faking his death, actually. )
[ Maybe it's good that Shanks can't read his mind yet. For all that Set steamrolls his way through intimacy, charging it with an emptied mind and a determination not to allow it to reach beyond the surface of his consciousness β he's uncertain of many things.
Men, definitely, are at the too of that list. Men who take to their knees have a place he can rationally slot them into, but the men who retain their dominance challenge him ( in more ways than one ). And then there is Shanks, who simply exudes confidence, prowess and little desire to wrest control from Set's hands.
To receive a... dick pic.... is completely new. He has to do a lot of studying the texts, the composition of the photo, and what he knows of Shanks's temperament before responding. ]
You know, I did not really pay mind to that part of him while I was in the midst of it. I might have bitten it off if I had.
Not that I would be so cruel to you.
Men, definitely, are at the too of that list. Men who take to their knees have a place he can rationally slot them into, but the men who retain their dominance challenge him ( in more ways than one ). And then there is Shanks, who simply exudes confidence, prowess and little desire to wrest control from Set's hands.
To receive a... dick pic.... is completely new. He has to do a lot of studying the texts, the composition of the photo, and what he knows of Shanks's temperament before responding. ]
You know, I did not really pay mind to that part of him while I was in the midst of it. I might have bitten it off if I had.
Not that I would be so cruel to you.
( there's a necessary sort of detachment from the shanks lounging in the nude, playfully discussing certain endowments β and the shanks who sought set's aid in concocting this little scheme, who largely left the details in set's capable hands. shanks knew, of course, the broad strokes. knew what it would cost (that you cannot fake a death without a body). but it isn't something he's thinking about now with any real seriousness, that part of him neatly compartmentalized with all the rest of the difficult decisions he's had to make to protect people. perhaps that makes him callous, or perhaps he's simply used to making sacrifices most people aren't willing to make. )
Well, I should hope not.
I am rather fond of it.
( keeping it light, no real hint of suggestion yet, though it could be read that way between the lines. )
Well, I should hope not.
I am rather fond of it.
( keeping it light, no real hint of suggestion yet, though it could be read that way between the lines. )
[ For a while, Shanks is left On Read. After all, Set doesn't really have a lot of manners to begin with, even less so when it comes to Unspoken Digital Manners, like not just leaving someone On Read. He's busy, scheming and biding his time and hiding the horrible nose ( sorry carnival jesus: buggy the clown ) he's been forced to don for his part in "cheating".
It's not CHEATING. It's being resourceful, he will declare it from the heavens.
Eventually, the sound of footfalls on sand might reach Shanks. The heat of the faux-desert beyond the veils of the tent might gleam brighter, the dunes shifting like the angles of a body waking slowly from the depths of slumber; an animal's flank rippling as it rises. Alive, even in pantomime. Set steps through the veils, dressed down from his "wintery" attired he'd worn to the first round of voting. Back in his desert finery, looking so very comfortable in the heat. A mote of longing in his eyes as he looks out beyond the tent's gauzy veils, as if he wants to run off into the land beyond.
Into himself, actually.
Eventually, he returns his bright gaze to the mostly-naked man before him, and quietly approaches. Sleek, quiet, as he slips to his knees and leans over Shanks with a studious, implacable expression. The kind he wears just before he does something without warning. The "something" being unpredictable. ]
Do you know what it is like, to know yourself for every grain of sand? To feel feet upon you, crossing you from end to end? To count every fallen body as it is bleached and swallowed, lost forever within you? To kill all life that enters you, because it simply cannot survive?
[ He leans, slow and predatory, over the other man. A hand slipping below the robe he's donned, fanning across the strong muscles there, across his ribs. How unfortunate that these intense questions are just,
he's got the clown nose on his face. :o( ]
It's not CHEATING. It's being resourceful, he will declare it from the heavens.
Eventually, the sound of footfalls on sand might reach Shanks. The heat of the faux-desert beyond the veils of the tent might gleam brighter, the dunes shifting like the angles of a body waking slowly from the depths of slumber; an animal's flank rippling as it rises. Alive, even in pantomime. Set steps through the veils, dressed down from his "wintery" attired he'd worn to the first round of voting. Back in his desert finery, looking so very comfortable in the heat. A mote of longing in his eyes as he looks out beyond the tent's gauzy veils, as if he wants to run off into the land beyond.
Into himself, actually.
Eventually, he returns his bright gaze to the mostly-naked man before him, and quietly approaches. Sleek, quiet, as he slips to his knees and leans over Shanks with a studious, implacable expression. The kind he wears just before he does something without warning. The "something" being unpredictable. ]
Do you know what it is like, to know yourself for every grain of sand? To feel feet upon you, crossing you from end to end? To count every fallen body as it is bleached and swallowed, lost forever within you? To kill all life that enters you, because it simply cannot survive?
[ He leans, slow and predatory, over the other man. A hand slipping below the robe he's donned, fanning across the strong muscles there, across his ribs. How unfortunate that these intense questions are just,
he's got the clown nose on his face. :o( ]
( it isn't the first time set has left him on read, and shanks suspects it probably won't be the last: the next time shanks implies something of that nature, he won't be surprised if set is quick to retreat. not that it particularly bothers him, not that he ever expects anything of it, even if right now it leaves him with nothing more than his thoughts and his hand and his warm, sweat-damp skin that conjures the memory of set's mouth, the heat of his tongue.
shanks rarely indulges in fantasies, too disinterested in his own pleasure to bother most of the time, the shape of his desire molded by what others would want from him, a sandcastle on the beach easily dashed by an oncoming wave β but by the time he recognizes set's approach, the evidence of shanks' indulgence is clear: his hair more unkempt than usual, the stains on the robe he'd used to clean himself with, the distinct scent of arousal still clinging to his skin.
he drinks set in, from the slops of his bare shoulders to the subtle dip of his waist and then back up, drawn in by the fullness of set's mouth, the intensity of his gaze. shanks tilts his head as if to consider the questions set poses, or perhaps to invite him closer, mouth quirking lazily at the weight of set's hand upon him and the heat that touch coils in his belly. is this what it is to be a grain of sand under the heat of the desert sun? )
I am only a man. ( as if to prove his point, shanks slides set's hand lower until it brushes the flushed head of his cock, all the while holding set's gaze with the unwavering confidence of someone saying i dare you, the unspoken challenge etched in the corners of his mouth like ancient texts carved into stone. ) How could that compare to the divine?
( the nose, of course, barely even registers. why would it when the face that so often occupies shanks' mind has one just like it? he hasn't spoken to buggy in decades, has only heard of buggy's antics secondhand β but shanks knows buggy better than he knows anyone, is intimately familiar with his particular brand of intensity, even if neither of them knew what they were doing then or what it meant to stare at each other and want to be consumed. he doesn't have to imagine what it might be like now, both of them grown, both of them starving β all he really has to do is look at set. )
shanks rarely indulges in fantasies, too disinterested in his own pleasure to bother most of the time, the shape of his desire molded by what others would want from him, a sandcastle on the beach easily dashed by an oncoming wave β but by the time he recognizes set's approach, the evidence of shanks' indulgence is clear: his hair more unkempt than usual, the stains on the robe he'd used to clean himself with, the distinct scent of arousal still clinging to his skin.
he drinks set in, from the slops of his bare shoulders to the subtle dip of his waist and then back up, drawn in by the fullness of set's mouth, the intensity of his gaze. shanks tilts his head as if to consider the questions set poses, or perhaps to invite him closer, mouth quirking lazily at the weight of set's hand upon him and the heat that touch coils in his belly. is this what it is to be a grain of sand under the heat of the desert sun? )
I am only a man. ( as if to prove his point, shanks slides set's hand lower until it brushes the flushed head of his cock, all the while holding set's gaze with the unwavering confidence of someone saying i dare you, the unspoken challenge etched in the corners of his mouth like ancient texts carved into stone. ) How could that compare to the divine?
( the nose, of course, barely even registers. why would it when the face that so often occupies shanks' mind has one just like it? he hasn't spoken to buggy in decades, has only heard of buggy's antics secondhand β but shanks knows buggy better than he knows anyone, is intimately familiar with his particular brand of intensity, even if neither of them knew what they were doing then or what it meant to stare at each other and want to be consumed. he doesn't have to imagine what it might be like now, both of them grown, both of them starving β all he really has to do is look at set. )
[ Their ruse had lasted only the night, in the end. And that was all that was needed: for "Shanks" to be swept off the board, lost among the tangle of kills and hidden by death. If he were dead before the wolfing hour, there would be no draw to target him. That Set could be so generous to suggest the ruse ( and carry it out, personally ) is both self-serving and selfless; he is, after all, a god of distant vision and clarity. Something that sees a grander picture and spoils it with his petulance.
Leaving Shanks tucked away in the garden of sand, silent and playing along so faithfully β it's like having a handsome bauble ( a treat; a gift; a secret ) to return to and look over from time to time. He's not so shallow as to not understand that β he's stolen the redhaired man from his friends, both his "life" and his presence. That Shanks had allowed himself to be stolen away.
That's a strange trait, for a man to have, Set thinks. It does things to him that he doesn't know how to describe. Only that the intensity feels like when Horus looks upon him, single-minded and devoted and yearning. An intent so hungry he wants to cry, pained and eager, for it. ]
You are. [ A man.
Set slides one hand around the back of Shanks's neck, urging him up into an easy kiss. The warm heat of his mouth passing in slow pulls, teeth rolling his bottom lip soft between them. ]
I thought that men did not do well alone, with only themselves for company. You seem fine enough.
[ Entertained, even. Wet with eagerness he'd needed to display to Set's eye, like dick was a lure and he was a fish. Honestly, he doesn't understand men sometimes β doesn't think of himself as attracted to their sex, the way he strays toward the natural draw of women. And yet, he doesn't falter in wrapping his pale fingers around the pink, stiff head of Shanks's cock β thumb stroking across the ridge of flesh connecting it to the length of him. ]
I thought you were more patient than this, Shanks. Did you think of me? Like this? Or did you look outside and think of me like that? Which "me" put you in this state, you desperate thing?
Leaving Shanks tucked away in the garden of sand, silent and playing along so faithfully β it's like having a handsome bauble ( a treat; a gift; a secret ) to return to and look over from time to time. He's not so shallow as to not understand that β he's stolen the redhaired man from his friends, both his "life" and his presence. That Shanks had allowed himself to be stolen away.
That's a strange trait, for a man to have, Set thinks. It does things to him that he doesn't know how to describe. Only that the intensity feels like when Horus looks upon him, single-minded and devoted and yearning. An intent so hungry he wants to cry, pained and eager, for it. ]
You are. [ A man.
Set slides one hand around the back of Shanks's neck, urging him up into an easy kiss. The warm heat of his mouth passing in slow pulls, teeth rolling his bottom lip soft between them. ]
I thought that men did not do well alone, with only themselves for company. You seem fine enough.
[ Entertained, even. Wet with eagerness he'd needed to display to Set's eye, like dick was a lure and he was a fish. Honestly, he doesn't understand men sometimes β doesn't think of himself as attracted to their sex, the way he strays toward the natural draw of women. And yet, he doesn't falter in wrapping his pale fingers around the pink, stiff head of Shanks's cock β thumb stroking across the ridge of flesh connecting it to the length of him. ]
I thought you were more patient than this, Shanks. Did you think of me? Like this? Or did you look outside and think of me like that? Which "me" put you in this state, you desperate thing?
Edited 2024-11-16 15:32 (UTC)
( this isn't the first time they've kissed, nor even the second β and yet it still feels new, electric, a storm brewing at sea just at the edge of the horizon. dangerous to pursue, perhaps, but worth the risk of trying. he might be an emperor now, laden with the weight of a legacy not meant for him, burdened with responsibility he never asked for, but he hasn't quite lost his sense of adventure, his taste for recklessness and chaos. he hums softly against the warmth of set's mouth, content even with the tug of teeth at his lip β though he can't help but huff a laugh at set's assessment that he seems fine enough, when in fact he hasn't felt this kind of coiling need spur him on alone in a long, long time. )
Most drive themselves mad with desire for the touch of a woman. ( he's seen it in his own crew, the way too long at sea affects them like a sickness, the way they all list toward the railing as if they want to throw themselves overboard and swim to the nearest brothel at the sight of land. shanks has never had any interest in that sort of thing β least of all because he has no interest in women, most of all because he'd only ever allowed two people to touch him like that before he arrived here, before the halls of saltburnt gave him reasons enough to want.
he throws his head back into the pillows, rocking into set's grip encouragingly, the soft groan rising from his throat seeming to say yes, like that and you're insufferable in equal measure. it's a fond exasperation, of course; he wouldn't have it any other way. the crooked slant of his mouth is proof enough of that, the gentle weight of his hand dragging set back to his mouth leaving little room to interpret shanks' desire as anything other than genuine. )
I do rather prefer not swallowing sand when we kiss. ( and yet, despite his flippancy, there is something distinctly arousing about the sheer vastness of set's domain, the thought that coarse grains slipping through his fingers is no different from the smooth strands brushing against his chest. ) And this β ( lifting a lock of hair to his lips, only briefly ) β and this β ( before his fingers sweep across set's ribs to trail feather-light over bare skin and up the curve of set's spine. ) How else am I meant to make the desert shiver?
( of course he'd thought about it, after their rendezvous on the rooftop, after he'd left with the lingering taste of set on his tongue. of course he'd thought about what the rest of set might taste like, what he might sound like coming apart under shanks' touch. but there hasn't been time to consider it as anything more than a fleeting fancy, no room to seriously entertain such an encounter β until now, it seems. )
Most drive themselves mad with desire for the touch of a woman. ( he's seen it in his own crew, the way too long at sea affects them like a sickness, the way they all list toward the railing as if they want to throw themselves overboard and swim to the nearest brothel at the sight of land. shanks has never had any interest in that sort of thing β least of all because he has no interest in women, most of all because he'd only ever allowed two people to touch him like that before he arrived here, before the halls of saltburnt gave him reasons enough to want.
he throws his head back into the pillows, rocking into set's grip encouragingly, the soft groan rising from his throat seeming to say yes, like that and you're insufferable in equal measure. it's a fond exasperation, of course; he wouldn't have it any other way. the crooked slant of his mouth is proof enough of that, the gentle weight of his hand dragging set back to his mouth leaving little room to interpret shanks' desire as anything other than genuine. )
I do rather prefer not swallowing sand when we kiss. ( and yet, despite his flippancy, there is something distinctly arousing about the sheer vastness of set's domain, the thought that coarse grains slipping through his fingers is no different from the smooth strands brushing against his chest. ) And this β ( lifting a lock of hair to his lips, only briefly ) β and this β ( before his fingers sweep across set's ribs to trail feather-light over bare skin and up the curve of set's spine. ) How else am I meant to make the desert shiver?
( of course he'd thought about it, after their rendezvous on the rooftop, after he'd left with the lingering taste of set on his tongue. of course he'd thought about what the rest of set might taste like, what he might sound like coming apart under shanks' touch. but there hasn't been time to consider it as anything more than a fleeting fancy, no room to seriously entertain such an encounter β until now, it seems. )
[ There's something frustratingly attractive about Shanks, even to the eye of a god who continues to proclaim himself not interested in men. He cannot place it.
Is it the red of his hair, so impossibly vibrant that he looks as though he could belong to Set? An adherent in vision that would be reviled and pursued to a bloody, painful end in the lands of Egypt β for some alluded-to relationship simply due to him being born a redhead. Might it be the strength of his body, maimed as he is and alive despite the crippling injury that robbed him of a dominant arm but not his strength? Something as simply as the physical shape of him, lean and strong and rounded in the pecs in a way that makes Set's mouth water and his fingers ache to sink into soft muscle and rake nails down the line of his belly to those sharp hipbones, perhaps?
Or his strange personality, indulgent and witty. Willing to give and give, so very hungry to starve himself for some distant image that Set knows exists, but does not know the complexity of. They're a little similar, the two of them, in that regard. Distant-visioned individuals willing to use externally-devised reputations to accomplish a difficult task. He sees a bit of himself in Shanks's acceptance of people's opinions of him, the way he allows them to shape his myth, and unveils himself only to those he deems trustworthy enough to share in the strained reality. ]
I have seen it, too.
[ Men at war, hungry for female contact. For their wives and intended ones, aching to their core with yearning both platonic and sexual. He's seen men turn to one another for something, and has never thought ill of them; it wasn't for him, loyal as he was to Nephthys and his family, but it wasn't wrong. Even if he saw himself in the conquering half, and not the submitting half of the pairings. ( Even if he'd never allow himself to enjoy submission, because it was not a man's role to be underneath another man. ) ( Not until the raw hedonism of that foreigner, careless with his cock and hungry for sex that held no room for thoughts. Only spine-melting pleasure, given and taken alike. )
Maybe Shanks is a little like that, and it eases Set's mind. That he isn't dreaming of using intimacy to force the god of war into a position of weakness, but seeking only the closeness of bodies. Set comes alive with heat, radiating from his belly to his hips and seizing the long line of his throat; his mouth dry, tongue wet as he licks into Shanks's mouth and traces the edge of his teeth. A little desperate, his fingers wrapped around the length of the man's cock, pressing it to his thigh as he pets and strokes its hardness. ]
β I have experience with a woman whom I was devoted to in marriage for centuries. [ He answers Shanks's question about making him shiver with innocent honesty, perceiving it as an equally-honest inquiry. Seems he responds well to earnest individuals, honesty and a little bit of lazy sweetness. ] Men do not usually want me to shiver under their hands.
[ They want him to break. ]
What you did when I was gone... do it again. Show me.
Is it the red of his hair, so impossibly vibrant that he looks as though he could belong to Set? An adherent in vision that would be reviled and pursued to a bloody, painful end in the lands of Egypt β for some alluded-to relationship simply due to him being born a redhead. Might it be the strength of his body, maimed as he is and alive despite the crippling injury that robbed him of a dominant arm but not his strength? Something as simply as the physical shape of him, lean and strong and rounded in the pecs in a way that makes Set's mouth water and his fingers ache to sink into soft muscle and rake nails down the line of his belly to those sharp hipbones, perhaps?
Or his strange personality, indulgent and witty. Willing to give and give, so very hungry to starve himself for some distant image that Set knows exists, but does not know the complexity of. They're a little similar, the two of them, in that regard. Distant-visioned individuals willing to use externally-devised reputations to accomplish a difficult task. He sees a bit of himself in Shanks's acceptance of people's opinions of him, the way he allows them to shape his myth, and unveils himself only to those he deems trustworthy enough to share in the strained reality. ]
I have seen it, too.
[ Men at war, hungry for female contact. For their wives and intended ones, aching to their core with yearning both platonic and sexual. He's seen men turn to one another for something, and has never thought ill of them; it wasn't for him, loyal as he was to Nephthys and his family, but it wasn't wrong. Even if he saw himself in the conquering half, and not the submitting half of the pairings. ( Even if he'd never allow himself to enjoy submission, because it was not a man's role to be underneath another man. ) ( Not until the raw hedonism of that foreigner, careless with his cock and hungry for sex that held no room for thoughts. Only spine-melting pleasure, given and taken alike. )
Maybe Shanks is a little like that, and it eases Set's mind. That he isn't dreaming of using intimacy to force the god of war into a position of weakness, but seeking only the closeness of bodies. Set comes alive with heat, radiating from his belly to his hips and seizing the long line of his throat; his mouth dry, tongue wet as he licks into Shanks's mouth and traces the edge of his teeth. A little desperate, his fingers wrapped around the length of the man's cock, pressing it to his thigh as he pets and strokes its hardness. ]
β I have experience with a woman whom I was devoted to in marriage for centuries. [ He answers Shanks's question about making him shiver with innocent honesty, perceiving it as an equally-honest inquiry. Seems he responds well to earnest individuals, honesty and a little bit of lazy sweetness. ] Men do not usually want me to shiver under their hands.
[ They want him to break. ]
What you did when I was gone... do it again. Show me.
[ he gives this maybe an hour or two since set stalked off, because he seemed like he needed cooling off time.
but then: ]
Hey, it's me.
Look, I'm sorry. I really didn't think it would be a problem, or I wouldn't have...
But you're right. I should've talked to you first, I'm sorry. I won't vote yet.
but then: ]
Hey, it's me.
Look, I'm sorry. I really didn't think it would be a problem, or I wouldn't have...
But you're right. I should've talked to you first, I'm sorry. I won't vote yet.
[ the faintest squeak, followed by a foreign-tongued curse escapes set on the other end of the line. ]
I know. It was not... in the eyes of the others, there is more value on ending the slaughter. Using votes towards that is wise. Placing weight where it must be counted is correct.
Is it wrong, that I put more value in keeping my word? And having it kept in return? Even though β
I know. It was not... in the eyes of the others, there is more value on ending the slaughter. Using votes towards that is wise. Placing weight where it must be counted is correct.
Is it wrong, that I put more value in keeping my word? And having it kept in return? Even though β
It is not as though I would force you away from Lauralae. I only wished to wait β there are three votes to be had again.
[ Jumping on the first person, sound argument or not, is wasteful to him. ]
If one of mine were to go on the block, I would move to defend them. Using all I have bartered and worked for.
[ Jumping on the first person, sound argument or not, is wasteful to him. ]
If one of mine were to go on the block, I would move to defend them. Using all I have bartered and worked for.
Edited 2024-10-20 01:25 (UTC)
Just because I was a little nice does not mean you have to call me "friend".
[ Genuinely, he means that. A petulant sound in the back of his throat. Like he's trying to warn Daniil off, to be kind in a horribly rough way. ]
You will definitely regret putting that much effort into it.
[ Genuinely, he means that. A petulant sound in the back of his throat. Like he's trying to warn Daniil off, to be kind in a horribly rough way. ]
You will definitely regret putting that much effort into it.
Why choose me to revive?
[ Ignoring the other part. ]
[ Ignoring the other part. ]
[ Itβs probably bad for Erik that there are a few people who couldβve done that to him, huh. ]
And thatβs why you chose me? The game and my body?
And thatβs why you chose me? The game and my body?
I'm not your responsibility.
[ He doesn't even know you, dude. This grates, just a little. ]
[ He doesn't even know you, dude. This grates, just a little. ]
I'm not little, either. Next time, think about the consequences of your actions.
Then I recommend you shut your mouth and don't talk about him any more.
[ charles is his pookie and did nothing wrong actually ]
If you touch him, I will kill you.
If you touch him, I will kill you.
I am only responding to your words. You're the one threatening him with damage. Just keep that in mind.
[ Literally just the shrug emoji rn. ]
Like I said, keep it in mind. I'm done with this now.
Like I said, keep it in mind. I'm done with this now.
Would it please you, Lord Set, if I named one of my team for the dungeons?
Jem Walker.
Queen Alina of the Fold already directed suspicion towards her, and she has defended one of the wolves most fiercely. Her small stature makes her a potential match for the footprint as well as the murders done by less physical means, like the poisonings.
So, if each team has a wolf, she is our likeliest contender.
[ she asked set and armand: how does that serve my interests? this could be their chance at alignment, lessening her team's numbers and pursuing a wolf. ]
Queen Alina of the Fold already directed suspicion towards her, and she has defended one of the wolves most fiercely. Her small stature makes her a potential match for the footprint as well as the murders done by less physical means, like the poisonings.
So, if each team has a wolf, she is our likeliest contender.
[ she asked set and armand: how does that serve my interests? this could be their chance at alignment, lessening her team's numbers and pursuing a wolf. ]
Thus far, each team has had a wolf. It is a safe assumption, as it would ensure a winning team includes one whom has escaped recognition.
Jem Walker does satisfy the conditions of our conversation. A claim against her could be very entertaining, per the house's demands. Make her cry.
[ in the most baseline of ways, he can acknowledge that. there is still another matter: ]
Are any members of your family part of your team? I know of Aemond from Red. He's delightful.
Jem Walker does satisfy the conditions of our conversation. A claim against her could be very entertaining, per the house's demands. Make her cry.
[ in the most baseline of ways, he can acknowledge that. there is still another matter: ]
Are any members of your family part of your team? I know of Aemond from Red. He's delightful.
Given how quickly she was moved to tears by her name before, you are like to be satisfied.
[ she will take no pleasure in it, mind, but it seems a guarantee.
delightful is not a word she would apply to her son, so it takes her a minute to respond. ]
None on my team, no. Aemond is indeed my second and fiercest son. Among your greens, we have Queen Daenerys Targaryen, a distant relation. And the blues, my step-daughter Rhaenyra Targaryen.
[ she will take no pleasure in it, mind, but it seems a guarantee.
delightful is not a word she would apply to her son, so it takes her a minute to respond. ]
None on my team, no. Aemond is indeed my second and fiercest son. Among your greens, we have Queen Daenerys Targaryen, a distant relation. And the blues, my step-daughter Rhaenyra Targaryen.
[ Daenerys's name is enough. She's to be preserved above all else, because more than she is family to Alicent and her kin, she's part of his team. In essence, she's protected. Untouchable by any schemes he'd take part in for his people's betterment. ]
Just two names, then. I thought your relations were not so decimated. Aemond. Rhaenyra.
Hey. Who would you sacrifice from your team to keep them safe?
Just two names, then. I thought your relations were not so decimated. Aemond. Rhaenyra.
Hey. Who would you sacrifice from your team to keep them safe?
I have many allies outside my House, but my blood has indeed fallen to the wolves, as I worried. They must think a Seer among us.
[ lmao. ]
I have offered you Jem. You would have another? You have not protected my House. Will you bring votes to my cause?
[ lmao. ]
I have offered you Jem. You would have another? You have not protected my House. Will you bring votes to my cause?
[ damn, it's not like he can name a member of the pink team and sock his votes on them instead of cha hyunsu now
except maybe?? ]
I had hoped to name Alina Starkov, to save her from one more round of potential attacks. Poor thing has suffered much. Would you feel comfortable voting to ensure her survival?
except maybe?? ]
I had hoped to name Alina Starkov, to save her from one more round of potential attacks. Poor thing has suffered much. Would you feel comfortable voting to ensure her survival?
Edited 2024-10-22 15:56 (UTC)
alright.
[ to the first part, which relieves him greatly. but to the second: ]
you can't think anyone would vote to put alina in a dungeon alongside the wolf that was after her. nobody's that stupid.
[ sometimes dani has too high an opinion of the rest of humanity. ]
set, what are you really doing? it can't be about winning, green team isn't close to it now. you're smarter than me, you must know that's true. so what prize is it you're chasing?
[ to the first part, which relieves him greatly. but to the second: ]
you can't think anyone would vote to put alina in a dungeon alongside the wolf that was after her. nobody's that stupid.
[ sometimes dani has too high an opinion of the rest of humanity. ]
set, what are you really doing? it can't be about winning, green team isn't close to it now. you're smarter than me, you must know that's true. so what prize is it you're chasing?
[ He'd told Pierce. Pierce, whom he likes because the man simply does not have the capacity to care for anything. Apathetic Pierce, whom refuses to participate unless directly impacted.
Daniil has reason to pursue matters, to become true competition to Set, as he tries for his goal. Tries something. Still, he types slowly. ]
I want β the house, the Balfours, whatever greater power is here β I want to be noticed by it.
I seek notoriety to entreat with it, and I do so by portraying myself as an entertaining antagonist.
Daniil has reason to pursue matters, to become true competition to Set, as he tries for his goal. Tries something. Still, he types slowly. ]
I want β the house, the Balfours, whatever greater power is here β I want to be noticed by it.
I seek notoriety to entreat with it, and I do so by portraying myself as an entertaining antagonist.
[ well...
the house is in charge here, it thinks this whole game is entertaining. it explains why set is so eager to play, when a god should be above such things. ]
i see
but to what end? the power you speak of plays with our lives without care, you surely can't trust anything it might do.
the house is in charge here, it thinks this whole game is entertaining. it explains why set is so eager to play, when a god should be above such things. ]
i see
but to what end? the power you speak of plays with our lives without care, you surely can't trust anything it might do.
And? I could no more trust Ra, the greatest of the Ennead, for her whims.
If I can entreat with it, I can learn of it. From it. About it. I would do anything to find my footing in understanding it β even if it is not "understandable" in the traditional sense.
I want to return home. I have something there I have to finish, and someone is waiting for me.
If I can entreat with it, I can learn of it. From it. About it. I would do anything to find my footing in understanding it β even if it is not "understandable" in the traditional sense.
I want to return home. I have something there I have to finish, and someone is waiting for me.
[ Daniil won't know it, but the briefest of shivers runs down the length of his spine. A lingering horror in the face of an old memory: someone who wouldn't let him go. ]
It is not with blind hope or foolishness that I approach this task. I will study, learn, acquire resources. Take my time, to fully know what I am getting into before I hunt.
It is an idea, for now. Something to strive toward, lest I while away my time here emptily.
It is not with blind hope or foolishness that I approach this task. I will study, learn, acquire resources. Take my time, to fully know what I am getting into before I hunt.
It is an idea, for now. Something to strive toward, lest I while away my time here emptily.
[ he doesn't respond for a moment.
this worries him. they have no idea what force holds them here. it's strong enough to hold gods, it's nothing to be trifled with. ]
be careful please.
i understand why you want to do this, but i don't want you to get hurt. if you turn its eye to you, you may not enjoy its gaze.
this worries him. they have no idea what force holds them here. it's strong enough to hold gods, it's nothing to be trifled with. ]
be careful please.
i understand why you want to do this, but i don't want you to get hurt. if you turn its eye to you, you may not enjoy its gaze.
I named Alina out of the generosity of my heart!
Since she was repeatedly targeted, I thought to save us all the boring drama of it. AND! She and Paul wasted the safety and livelihood of every other individual playing this game who died to wolves. "Oh Paul! Oh! Alina! I will never let you fall to the wolves, damn the others! Damn the others and let them perish, and it is Set who brings attention to the matter who will suffer for our love."
Like a soap opera reusing story lines. How is that entertaining?
Anyways, it is fine. I want the prize, and that has always been my goal. Winning as a team was one way of obtaining it, perhaps! Being voted out will not restrict my attempts. β‘
Since she was repeatedly targeted, I thought to save us all the boring drama of it. AND! She and Paul wasted the safety and livelihood of every other individual playing this game who died to wolves. "Oh Paul! Oh! Alina! I will never let you fall to the wolves, damn the others! Damn the others and let them perish, and it is Set who brings attention to the matter who will suffer for our love."
Like a soap opera reusing story lines. How is that entertaining?
Anyways, it is fine. I want the prize, and that has always been my goal. Winning as a team was one way of obtaining it, perhaps! Being voted out will not restrict my attempts. β‘
well i shall not be the one standing in your way.
there is always the chance that you're right and this will lead to a way home.
i don't overly want to go home, but lexi does. so if it's his prize that leads to a way, i think he would be happy with that.
there is always the chance that you're right and this will lead to a way home.
i don't overly want to go home, but lexi does. so if it's his prize that leads to a way, i think he would be happy with that.
oh, yes. you didn't know that? he is the rightful king of the country i'm from. we met there, by chance. well i say by chance, it was more likely by design of the witch we were both involved with. he is trying to reclaim his throne, that's why he can't stay here.
No, I did not. I mean, most everyone has someone from their world. But, I never really assume what I have not observed or overheard.
[ There are a couple of stragglers, he has found. Lone individuals from solitary realms, who must forge relations among others busy with their kin and familiar own. Bit challenging, when there's all that pre-existing baggage to catch up on. ]
As long as he does not go around pretending his claim there means anything here, I wish him luck.
[ LIKE SOME PEOPLE ]
Even if I cannot imagine such a thing. Mortals have no authority to rule, where I am from. It is a patently foolish notion, to allow short-lived creatures such oversight.
[ There are a couple of stragglers, he has found. Lone individuals from solitary realms, who must forge relations among others busy with their kin and familiar own. Bit challenging, when there's all that pre-existing baggage to catch up on. ]
As long as he does not go around pretending his claim there means anything here, I wish him luck.
[ LIKE SOME PEOPLE ]
Even if I cannot imagine such a thing. Mortals have no authority to rule, where I am from. It is a patently foolish notion, to allow short-lived creatures such oversight.
vampires are not short-lived compared to humans. but if it is gods you mean, then we have none of those anymore. they died long ago. that's why our world is dying, too.
there's little left of them. stories passed down, that's all. no shrines or temples, no songs. it's why it fascinates me, the way gods are worshipped in other places. our culture lost all of that.
[ it upsets him more than he can say, and always has. no one else he knew was ever so preoccupied with it. he can't say why. ]
there's little left of them. stories passed down, that's all. no shrines or temples, no songs. it's why it fascinates me, the way gods are worshipped in other places. our culture lost all of that.
[ it upsets him more than he can say, and always has. no one else he knew was ever so preoccupied with it. he can't say why. ]
[ Compared to him, everyone here classifies as "mortal". It means they're capable of dying. Human, vampire, onward. They have an end, he does not. ]
Gods do not die. Are you certain they were not called back to the cosmic sea? That happens. If they died... the world would be entirely unmade.
At least, that is how it is known to me. And I am a god forgotten and erased from knowledge.
Gods do not die. Are you certain they were not called back to the cosmic sea? That happens. If they died... the world would be entirely unmade.
At least, that is how it is known to me. And I am a god forgotten and erased from knowledge.
[ set is more correct than dani could know. ]
i'm not certain of anything, i only know the stories. and they are many, and vague.
but they never seemed right to me. i don't know. they say the sun god luminor loved the moon goddess nocturna, but she rejected him because they could not be together. he lashed out, and in his rage he killed her. then when he saw what he had done he was overcome with grief, and buried her far beneath the earth. then he killed himself, because he couldn't live with it.
later a group of humans found the corpse of nocturna and defiled it, and that was how the first vampires were made. and it was the end of humanity, because after that the vampires took control.
i'm not certain of anything, i only know the stories. and they are many, and vague.
but they never seemed right to me. i don't know. they say the sun god luminor loved the moon goddess nocturna, but she rejected him because they could not be together. he lashed out, and in his rage he killed her. then when he saw what he had done he was overcome with grief, and buried her far beneath the earth. then he killed himself, because he couldn't live with it.
later a group of humans found the corpse of nocturna and defiled it, and that was how the first vampires were made. and it was the end of humanity, because after that the vampires took control.
[ daniil your world is SO WORRISOME, like beyond the breeding program you already mentioned ( which is DEEPLY disturbing to set in a way that he cannot currently articulate ) ]
I can only speak for the experience I have, but β I managed to kill my brother. Even then, my sister resurrected him. However, he is trapped in Duat, unable to leave the underworld due to what I did. For gods to... truly kill one another, and kill themselves, is strange to me. Nigh-impossible. Even at my trial, they hesitated to put an end to my existence. Without us, certain aspects of the world have no foundation upon which to hold meaning. That is our purpose.
So, I would not say your hesitation to believe in the stories is wrong. I may not know your world or its make... but, I would not tell you to disavow yourself that uncertainty. Men like you often shake the understanding of the world among your kind.
[ he also will not speak on the topic of humans defiling a god's body, especially a corpse... it's too close to a difficult memory. ]
I can only speak for the experience I have, but β I managed to kill my brother. Even then, my sister resurrected him. However, he is trapped in Duat, unable to leave the underworld due to what I did. For gods to... truly kill one another, and kill themselves, is strange to me. Nigh-impossible. Even at my trial, they hesitated to put an end to my existence. Without us, certain aspects of the world have no foundation upon which to hold meaning. That is our purpose.
So, I would not say your hesitation to believe in the stories is wrong. I may not know your world or its make... but, I would not tell you to disavow yourself that uncertainty. Men like you often shake the understanding of the world among your kind.
[ he also will not speak on the topic of humans defiling a god's body, especially a corpse... it's too close to a difficult memory. ]
yes, but that's right! the world has no foundation.
that's what's wrong with our world. without luminor and nocturna, it's just dying. but slowly, because we keep trying to hold on and survive.
i hope the stories are wrong.
we're looking for something, lexi and i, and the others we're with. if we find it, it's supposed to make things better. i didn't used to believe that, but lexi believes it keenly. he thinks it can save our world. or make him strong enough to save it, maybe.
that's what's wrong with our world. without luminor and nocturna, it's just dying. but slowly, because we keep trying to hold on and survive.
i hope the stories are wrong.
we're looking for something, lexi and i, and the others we're with. if we find it, it's supposed to make things better. i didn't used to believe that, but lexi believes it keenly. he thinks it can save our world. or make him strong enough to save it, maybe.
That would make sense, then. Without your gods, your world must be returning to its most primordial state. Sometimes that is natural, though. All things end.
Just as it is perfectly natural for mortals to defy that, to their last breath. That is your right, as creatures given such boundless freedoms.
So, what is it that you and Alexei are looking for?
Just as it is perfectly natural for mortals to defy that, to their last breath. That is your right, as creatures given such boundless freedoms.
So, what is it that you and Alexei are looking for?
the blood chalice.
it's a relic, supposedly containing what remains of the blood of nocturna.
i say that. i'd never heard of it until a few months ago, when i asked a witch for help and her price was aiding the search. i didn't really believe in it, honestly, it sounded ridiculous.
but lexi believes, and his faith is. well not exactly catching, but it's something. he thinks it'll give him the power to take back his stolen throne.
it's a relic, supposedly containing what remains of the blood of nocturna.
i say that. i'd never heard of it until a few months ago, when i asked a witch for help and her price was aiding the search. i didn't really believe in it, honestly, it sounded ridiculous.
but lexi believes, and his faith is. well not exactly catching, but it's something. he thinks it'll give him the power to take back his stolen throne.
Well, yeah.
There have been gatherings made to elicit shock and awe and theatrics from us. Think of the feast from before. And then in this last vote, Jonty said: "The house loves parties." It seems to have preferences, thus I feel it wants to be entertained.
I made myself into a spectacle!
There have been gatherings made to elicit shock and awe and theatrics from us. Think of the feast from before. And then in this last vote, Jonty said: "The house loves parties." It seems to have preferences, thus I feel it wants to be entertained.
I made myself into a spectacle!
[ That framing β the idea of mastering their circumstances β is at least one that Homelander better understands. Of course, he thinks. He shouldn't have been worried. They understand each other, don't they? ]
i get it. can't kill something unless you know how to.
i get it. can't kill something unless you know how to.
[ Set is willing to do anything, become anything, scrape, claw, connive, deal-make, cheat and beg if he has to. Not necessarily in that order ( though begging is at the bottom of the list ), but he has no pride, no dignity to get in his way.
The others were lucky that he just wanted to win at Werewolf, because he would happily have burnt and slaughtered if his goal called upon such extremism. ]
Exactly! You understand.
If it can keep gods here, it must be a power worth investigating.
The others were lucky that he just wanted to win at Werewolf, because he would happily have burnt and slaughtered if his goal called upon such extremism. ]
Exactly! You understand.
If it can keep gods here, it must be a power worth investigating.
[ That's the difference between the two of them, even if they don't know it yet β dignity is one thing, but pride is the poison in Homelander's ear. ]
have you ever had anything like this happen before?
i've never
[ He hits send before he means to, just stares at the words for a moment before managing to regroup. He can share this, he thinks, with Set. ]
i hate that it makes me weak.
have you ever had anything like this happen before?
i've never
[ He hits send before he means to, just stares at the words for a moment before managing to regroup. He can share this, he thinks, with Set. ]
i hate that it makes me weak.
The simple answer would be "no, I have never been trapped in another world". The more complex one would be... "yes, I feel as though I must have".
Is that what you mean?
[ Ironically, Set might be one of the best people to share that with. Simply because he acknowledges it, understands it, and simmers with a loathing that might resonate in the same frequency as Homelander's. ]
I hate it, too. For all the power I hold, I am still a thing encaged. It makes a mockery of gods, to be trapped alongside powerless others.
Is that what you mean?
[ Ironically, Set might be one of the best people to share that with. Simply because he acknowledges it, understands it, and simmers with a loathing that might resonate in the same frequency as Homelander's. ]
I hate it, too. For all the power I hold, I am still a thing encaged. It makes a mockery of gods, to be trapped alongside powerless others.
[ Something like relief floods through him β relief at being understood (at not being alone). He's spent this entire time trying to pretend that it hasn't bothered him as much as it has, that it's his choice not to use his powers as much as he'd like. How can he profess to be strong when the house can string him up as easily as anyone else?
(How is he, once ever exempt, supposed to conform to the rules?) ]
exactly. the fact that it treats us like them.
we're not like them.
and they'll fucking see it.
(How is he, once ever exempt, supposed to conform to the rules?) ]
exactly. the fact that it treats us like them.
we're not like them.
and they'll fucking see it.
][ What happens, when the monsters can sympathize with one another? When the sympathy is not fixated upon a mutual trauma, a chink in the venerable armor, a nice and pleasing parallel that means a gentleness will find their environment.
When it is based on power, the loss of it, and identities that have been shaped by the possession of it. ]
No, we are not like them at all. It is insulting to be kept among them, as they look upon us with pity and laughter and mockery while imagining themselves secure in one another's arms.
[ He'll hold no grudge for those who voted him out, of course. They're foolish for it, drunk on their own perception of power and the execution of it.
What happens when they cannot vote someone like him ( or Homelander ) into a cell, though? What happens when it is no longer a silly little game? He is happy to see who digs their own grave. ]
You see it, right?
When it is based on power, the loss of it, and identities that have been shaped by the possession of it. ]
No, we are not like them at all. It is insulting to be kept among them, as they look upon us with pity and laughter and mockery while imagining themselves secure in one another's arms.
[ He'll hold no grudge for those who voted him out, of course. They're foolish for it, drunk on their own perception of power and the execution of it.
What happens when they cannot vote someone like him ( or Homelander ) into a cell, though? What happens when it is no longer a silly little game? He is happy to see who digs their own grave. ]
You see it, right?
[ (Something he hasn't really talked about with anyone is the great disappointment β betrayal, even β that he felt when Maeve first began to pull away. She was the closest thing he'd ever had to an equal; she'd been supposed to understand their lot, to understand him. But she hates him, now. He knows that, even if he isn't fully willing to accept it.
But Set is like him, too.) ]
of course i see it. i can smell it. the fear. it's why they take the game so seriously.
i don't know what they're going to do when it's over.
But Set is like him, too.) ]
of course i see it. i can smell it. the fear. it's why they take the game so seriously.
i don't know what they're going to do when it's over.
Yes, you do. [ He knows that you do, Homelander! ] They are going to forget.
Mortals have short memories, after all. They are going to forget that what they could do now is not forever. Watch, Homelander. When I finally leave this cell, not one of them will take me seriously. They will remember themselves as those who held enough power to β what? to vote me into a cell?
It's not as if they could do it with their own hands.
But, they'll forget. And they'll continue to think they accomplished something, the way they would think the same of you you the moment they forget that your power continues on after the game.
Mortals have short memories, after all. They are going to forget that what they could do now is not forever. Watch, Homelander. When I finally leave this cell, not one of them will take me seriously. They will remember themselves as those who held enough power to β what? to vote me into a cell?
It's not as if they could do it with their own hands.
But, they'll forget. And they'll continue to think they accomplished something, the way they would think the same of you you the moment they forget that your power continues on after the game.
[ As he reads, the anger and resentment coiled in his chest splits in two, the serpent growing another head as he seethes both at this place for robbing him of what ought to be his birthright and at its occupants for perceiving him like this, for thinking themselves powerful.
After a long pause (spent pacing the confines of his room, wondering just how much of this place he could destroy before blacking out): ]
after the game. we'll talk then.
After a long pause (spent pacing the confines of his room, wondering just how much of this place he could destroy before blacking out): ]
after the game. we'll talk then.
Well, they fairly quickly recognized that the wolves has no control. There is no satisfaction in punishing someone who was not conscious of the pain they caused.
[ boring!!! boring to forgive the wolves, boring that the wolves might never have killed otherwise. ( danny johnson mvp wolf!!! ) ]
Why, I am a man of many talents and pleasures, Daniil! If I told you everything, I could not surprise you later.
Have you ever been sailing?
[ boring!!! boring to forgive the wolves, boring that the wolves might never have killed otherwise. ( danny johnson mvp wolf!!! ) ]
Why, I am a man of many talents and pleasures, Daniil! If I told you everything, I could not surprise you later.
Have you ever been sailing?
[ set loves to talk, that much is obvious. what he loves more, is telling stories. for daniil, he switches over to a video call β the dim sounds of distant conversation ( for at this time, he's still in the cell with the Wolves and lucifer ) filling the atmosphere behind him. tucked in a corner of his bed, he places the phone in a spot to prop it up, leaving his hands free. ]
Apart from the lands surrounding the Nile, Egypt is desert. The lands that I am, and also rule are the deshret, while the black, fertile lands are the kemet. The Nile is our blood, and flows from the northern sea to the depths of lands beyond ours. That is where we sail.
Our boats, [ the fingers of his hands blur into soft, glimmering motes of pale sand, a formless dust cloud that soon retakes shape into a short boat, with a single sail and the heads of antelopes on either perched point of fore and aft. ] Are either rowed by servants, or sailed by a single individual. We decorate them with our sacred animals, we paint them brilliant colors, we promise their use and length of life to Ra, whom faithfully sails her barque across the sky and through Duat.
We depend on the winds of my father, when we sail. Without him, one must work under their own strength to propel the boat. Both are satisfying. If you want, when I am free of here... I can always show you. Hearing of it is one thing, experiencing it is another. The presence of the water and the wind β it is a liberating thing.
Apart from the lands surrounding the Nile, Egypt is desert. The lands that I am, and also rule are the deshret, while the black, fertile lands are the kemet. The Nile is our blood, and flows from the northern sea to the depths of lands beyond ours. That is where we sail.
Our boats, [ the fingers of his hands blur into soft, glimmering motes of pale sand, a formless dust cloud that soon retakes shape into a short boat, with a single sail and the heads of antelopes on either perched point of fore and aft. ] Are either rowed by servants, or sailed by a single individual. We decorate them with our sacred animals, we paint them brilliant colors, we promise their use and length of life to Ra, whom faithfully sails her barque across the sky and through Duat.
We depend on the winds of my father, when we sail. Without him, one must work under their own strength to propel the boat. Both are satisfying. If you want, when I am free of here... I can always show you. Hearing of it is one thing, experiencing it is another. The presence of the water and the wind β it is a liberating thing.
[ he listens with rapt attention, envisioning a land far away with different rules and many gods, and a sea and sand. a living world, a good world. ]
I would love that. Yes, please!
What are those animals on your boat, you said they were sacred. What do they mean to you?
I would love that. Yes, please!
What are those animals on your boat, you said they were sacred. What do they mean to you?
Then, before it is too cold and the lake freezes over, I will take you sailing.
[ And inevitably, he'll crash-course Daniil in HOW to sail. Because if there's one thing Set loves more than his degree in yapology, it's MENTORING PEOPLE. ]
To make a long explanation shorter: gods such as I are multiple things all at once. I am a man, as you can see. I am also an animal, and the endless, arid desert that form part of the Egyptian lands. I mean that quite literally. The animals you saw are called "antelope". I am one of them.
Have you never seen an antelope in your world?
[ And inevitably, he'll crash-course Daniil in HOW to sail. Because if there's one thing Set loves more than his degree in yapology, it's MENTORING PEOPLE. ]
To make a long explanation shorter: gods such as I are multiple things all at once. I am a man, as you can see. I am also an animal, and the endless, arid desert that form part of the Egyptian lands. I mean that quite literally. The animals you saw are called "antelope". I am one of them.
Have you never seen an antelope in your world?
There aren't many animals, generally.
[ a beat. ]
I don't think you'd like my world. I don't like my world, it's--
Dark, and dying, and hopeless. I've seen the odd deer, out in the woods where the werewolves were hunting. Is that anything like an antelope?
[ a beat. ]
I don't think you'd like my world. I don't like my world, it's--
Dark, and dying, and hopeless. I've seen the odd deer, out in the woods where the werewolves were hunting. Is that anything like an antelope?
want anything from the land of the free?
you kinda got yourself in there, you know
and i donβt think giles will give those up even if i offer him anything
and i donβt think giles will give those up even if i offer him anything
Oh, forbid I speak the name of one of the queens of dead weight.
I should have named her first round, and saved us all the eye-rolling boredom of watching her and Paul guaranteedly rescue one another across multiple rounds, damn the others.
Are you incapable of theft? Go big, Eddie Munson!
I should have named her first round, and saved us all the eye-rolling boredom of watching her and Paul guaranteedly rescue one another across multiple rounds, damn the others.
Are you incapable of theft? Go big, Eddie Munson!
Edited 2024-10-25 17:34 (UTC)
the queen of dead weight? ouch, dude
thatβs love, set. and even if people
came back β humans donβt like dying
donβt tempt me, frodo
i will try it
thatβs love, set. and even if people
came back β humans donβt like dying
donβt tempt me, frodo
i will try it
[ pausing the jailbreak convo ]
Am I wrong?
It is not as if either of them, extended their Role to others. I intended to free them up from that cycle by securing one's safety. Her unhappiness maybe, but safety. Maybe the others could have been secured, too.
Because people died, but not their people. You cannot be accepting that, can you? The obvious proof that who you love would never be worth more than theirs.
Am I wrong?
It is not as if either of them, extended their Role to others. I intended to free them up from that cycle by securing one's safety. Her unhappiness maybe, but safety. Maybe the others could have been secured, too.
Because people died, but not their people. You cannot be accepting that, can you? The obvious proof that who you love would never be worth more than theirs.
isn't that all of us? we care most about who we like, love, need and the people against us? fuck those people
they're just... obvious about it
they're just... obvious about it
Hmm. I do agree with your view, to a point. The way I see it, they did not just say "fxck those people".
They said "fuck your people" at the same time they claimed life was sacred. That, to me, is unforgivable. At least I did not pretend the lives of some were not worth more.
They said "fuck your people" at the same time they claimed life was sacred. That, to me, is unforgivable. At least I did not pretend the lives of some were not worth more.
Edited 2024-10-28 01:23 (UTC)
i don't see a difference, i guess. unless the whole point is about the pretending that all lives mattered in the first place
Honestly? I was going to ask for the Narmer Palette.
Congratulations, by the way. You and your teammates fought a fine battle.
Congratulations, by the way. You and your teammates fought a fine battle.
You will???? I admit, I had planned to make a gift of it to Jonty Balfour in the hopes of ingratiating myself with him.
[ despite asking for it, he's a bit shocked alexei actually plans to allow him this ]
Daniil was ferocious in your defense. I admired him for it, and I could not bear to leave him to be defended by those who sought to divide the two of you. Their hypocrisy was gross.
You are a lucky man, to have someone so impassioned toward you.
[ despite asking for it, he's a bit shocked alexei actually plans to allow him this ]
Daniil was ferocious in your defense. I admired him for it, and I could not bear to leave him to be defended by those who sought to divide the two of you. Their hypocrisy was gross.
You are a lucky man, to have someone so impassioned toward you.
[ It's very nice and convenient that Set's username is simply his name. It makes it nice and easy to look up! Because perhaps a day or so after fun times (?) at the Ren Faire, he's getting a text from someone who did not do that. ]
You. Are you the one who announced himself as the god of war at that pointless festival?
[ It seems a bit silly to ask, but... Considering some of the usernames he's seen, he might as well confirm. ]
You. Are you the one who announced himself as the god of war at that pointless festival?
[ It seems a bit silly to ask, but... Considering some of the usernames he's seen, he might as well confirm. ]
[ The temptation to be mouthy is strong, but if there's anything that gives Marazhai pause, it's anything calling themselves a god. Considering the withering gaze of She Who Thirsts that's followed him until setting foot here, he'd rather not draw ire of more.
...Not that he'll be respectful, though, exactly. It's better than his baseline and that's all you can ask. ]
Hardly. It is easy to call yourself a god. The mon-keigh seem overly fond of it, after all.
But I am curious to speak to a supposed god, even so. Especially one who claims such interesting desires. What creatures worship you now?
...Not that he'll be respectful, though, exactly. It's better than his baseline and that's all you can ask. ]
Hardly. It is easy to call yourself a god. The mon-keigh seem overly fond of it, after all.
But I am curious to speak to a supposed god, even so. Especially one who claims such interesting desires. What creatures worship you now?
I am not "calling" myself a god, any more than you "call" yourself what you are.
[ honestly, he's heard it enough. "prove it", "you call yourself that", "gods don't exist" β the casual stupidity of other beings is laughable. for each one who dismisses his existence, he both grows closer to MURDERING THEM ALL and dismissing theirs in return. ]
As for who worships me, I have discerning tastes and high standards. No matter what came before, I find myself happy to pick and choose. I only want the best!
[ honestly, he's heard it enough. "prove it", "you call yourself that", "gods don't exist" β the casual stupidity of other beings is laughable. for each one who dismisses his existence, he both grows closer to MURDERING THEM ALL and dismissing theirs in return. ]
As for who worships me, I have discerning tastes and high standards. No matter what came before, I find myself happy to pick and choose. I only want the best!
[ you know you've got him there set ]
You misunderstand. I mean it literally, as in what species. I have only known the mon-keigh to worship one god (that I would not call such), and all of the gods of my kin have been eaten by Sai'lanthresh.
That is why I am curious. I would have thought that She Who Thirsts would have devoured you all.
You misunderstand. I mean it literally, as in what species. I have only known the mon-keigh to worship one god (that I would not call such), and all of the gods of my kin have been eaten by Sai'lanthresh.
That is why I am curious. I would have thought that She Who Thirsts would have devoured you all.
Oh! Humans, mostly. I am from a human world. There is also a very lovely vampire who pays me in devotion, here.I accept all kinds, though! Not everyone is strong enough to handle my attentions.
Who is She Who Thirsts? Sounds like Hathor after she spots a new man-of-the-week. [ CURIOUS ]
Who is She Who Thirsts? Sounds like Hathor after she spots a new man-of-the-week. [ CURIOUS ]
Surprising. Do some of the mon-keigh call your worship heresy?
[ He'll return to the strength required for his attention later... Explaining SHe Who Thirsts seems like a better place to start before that. ]
Sai'lanthresh, She Who Thirsts, Slaanesh. All the same name for the Prince of Pleasure and Lord of Excess. So, perhaps like this Hathor. To look upon him or hear his voice is to become his pleasure. Eaten, eventually. But I assume he would fuck your soul first, yes.
[ how does that work he does not know and he does not WANT to thanks ♥ ]
He truly is not familiar to you?
[ He'll return to the strength required for his attention later... Explaining SHe Who Thirsts seems like a better place to start before that. ]
Sai'lanthresh, She Who Thirsts, Slaanesh. All the same name for the Prince of Pleasure and Lord of Excess. So, perhaps like this Hathor. To look upon him or hear his voice is to become his pleasure. Eaten, eventually. But I assume he would fuck your soul first, yes.
[ how does that work he does not know and he does not WANT to thanks ♥ ]
He truly is not familiar to you?
They do think of my worship as heretical, if not the activities of the most deranged of souls. But, not because of competition or the desire to elevate one god over the other. It is solely because I am an evil god.
[ set doesn't even mind when his own questions are skipped, because learning of other lands and domains and gods and peoples happens to be one of his favorite things. certainly, he is argumentative when it comes to challenges to his perspective, but it doesn't mean he spurns the act of interrogating new things. ]
Hm. They're similar, but only in name.
The only god that devours souls is the goddess Ammit, and she only eats up those who do not live by maat. I could not say that any gods of my lands are even remotely like She Who Thirsts. They are far more about the protection and preservation of the soul. So, no. He is not a familiar god to me.
Nor am I particularly frightened by the idea that he might devour any of us. I have killed another divinity, after all.
[ set doesn't even mind when his own questions are skipped, because learning of other lands and domains and gods and peoples happens to be one of his favorite things. certainly, he is argumentative when it comes to challenges to his perspective, but it doesn't mean he spurns the act of interrogating new things. ]
Hm. They're similar, but only in name.
The only god that devours souls is the goddess Ammit, and she only eats up those who do not live by maat. I could not say that any gods of my lands are even remotely like She Who Thirsts. They are far more about the protection and preservation of the soul. So, no. He is not a familiar god to me.
Nor am I particularly frightened by the idea that he might devour any of us. I have killed another divinity, after all.
Odd. You sound like the gods that existed before Sai'lanthresh. I do not know what to make of this. I know little of them.
[ Itβs such incredibly ancient history and also largely considered irrelevant to the Drukhari. The only reason he knows anything at all is because of their long lifespans helping the knowledge live a little longer.
He also has half a thought of if he could somehow turn this Set on Sai'lanthresh, if he can truly kill gods as he claims. Itβs not for his people, though. Itβs purely self-serving, and it happens to help them all.
β¦But heβs also enjoying the quiet here. Itβs something heβll put more thought to in time, perhaps. ]
I would like to test my skills against yours, god of war. If Iβm impressed, perhaps Iβll consider offering you worship.
And βmon-keighβ is both. It is what we call humanity.
[ Itβs such incredibly ancient history and also largely considered irrelevant to the Drukhari. The only reason he knows anything at all is because of their long lifespans helping the knowledge live a little longer.
He also has half a thought of if he could somehow turn this Set on Sai'lanthresh, if he can truly kill gods as he claims. Itβs not for his people, though. Itβs purely self-serving, and it happens to help them all.
β¦But heβs also enjoying the quiet here. Itβs something heβll put more thought to in time, perhaps. ]
I would like to test my skills against yours, god of war. If Iβm impressed, perhaps Iβll consider offering you worship.
And βmon-keighβ is both. It is what we call humanity.
HAH! I love it! Humans are "mon-keigh"! I have referred to as κ₯ffw at times! Annoying little things.
Perhaps I am a god from before his time. In accordance with a linear path, I believe that I am at least the oldest individual in the house.
[ and in accordance to non-linear time, he's also still INCREDIBLY young for a god. an absolute baby. ]
Of course, that is no matter to me, though. I am far more interested in your offer! I shall annihilate you whenever you are prepared to make your stand against me, Reaving Tempest. Would you prefer to die, or shall I only take you to the edge?
Perhaps I am a god from before his time. In accordance with a linear path, I believe that I am at least the oldest individual in the house.
[ and in accordance to non-linear time, he's also still INCREDIBLY young for a god. an absolute baby. ]
Of course, that is no matter to me, though. I am far more interested in your offer! I shall annihilate you whenever you are prepared to make your stand against me, Reaving Tempest. Would you prefer to die, or shall I only take you to the edge?
[ wow... another human hater... senpai... π₯Ί ]
You are full of surprises, war god. Considering they belong to you, I assumed you'd have fondness for them. Good, though. Being around so many makes my skin crawl.
I would like to flay a god, so it's fair that I allow the same in return.
But I'm also not eager to die when away from the flesh-crafters. To the edge.
You are full of surprises, war god. Considering they belong to you, I assumed you'd have fondness for them. Good, though. Being around so many makes my skin crawl.
I would like to flay a god, so it's fair that I allow the same in return.
But I'm also not eager to die when away from the flesh-crafters. To the edge.
Like hell. I hate humanity; their modern shape is quite loathsome and bestial, a far cry from their origin.
[ there are singular humans who have risen above the collective, but as a default, he holds a lot of contempt for mortal life. they're short-sighted and arrogant, and not being able to crush them is IRRITATING!!! ]
To the edge, then.
Are you a morning or evening creature? I've no preference, it only matters in the selection of locale.
[ there are singular humans who have risen above the collective, but as a default, he holds a lot of contempt for mortal life. they're short-sighted and arrogant, and not being able to crush them is IRRITATING!!! ]
To the edge, then.
Are you a morning or evening creature? I've no preference, it only matters in the selection of locale.
[ wherever he's texting, he lets out a single, but empathetic, eugh that is unfortunately not conveyed in text ]
Evening, if only because there is no sun.
[ who's a widdle baby that will get sunburned if he's outside too long
yeah la creatura from the no sun torture dimension ]
I also have no weapons or armor to speak of. My attempts to procure any have been unfruitful. [ and for SOME reason he didn't come with any? rude of the balfours honestly ] But I will still fight with hand and teeth, if it makes no difference to you.
Evening, if only because there is no sun.
[ who's a widdle baby that will get sunburned if he's outside too long
yeah la creatura from the no sun torture dimension ]
I also have no weapons or armor to speak of. My attempts to procure any have been unfruitful. [ and for SOME reason he didn't come with any? rude of the balfours honestly ] But I will still fight with hand and teeth, if it makes no difference to you.
Edited 2024-11-20 03:28 (UTC)
[ he highlights marazhai's choice of "evening" and gives it a β
emoji. evening it is! ]
I am perfectly adept at hand to hand combat.
If you would not mind, I can form weaponry for us. Though I do know there is a gym with blades, and the hunting lodge is equipped with rifles and shotguns β but, we would have to fight there. Some of these freaks that I do not respect have stolen nearly every loose weapon in the house.
Oh! Speaking of them. You are not human, thus you must have an entire culture and understanding of the world as your own. Have they tried explaining your own knowledge to you in that condescending way of theirs yet?
I am perfectly adept at hand to hand combat.
If you would not mind, I can form weaponry for us. Though I do know there is a gym with blades, and the hunting lodge is equipped with rifles and shotguns β but, we would have to fight there. Some of these freaks that I do not respect have stolen nearly every loose weapon in the house.
Oh! Speaking of them. You are not human, thus you must have an entire culture and understanding of the world as your own. Have they tried explaining your own knowledge to you in that condescending way of theirs yet?
I understand your point, but I also can't fault them. I would take any weaponry I'd find as well.
[ Now, granted, he thinks he should have it because he's the superior being, but. ]
Your weaponry or the gym with blades. Firearms have their use, but they're too quick for my taste. The intimate pain of being close to your fight is better.
[ Now, granted, he thinks he should have it because he's the superior being, but. ]
Your weaponry or the gym with blades. Firearms have their use, but they're too quick for my taste. The intimate pain of being close to your fight is better.
Edited 2024-11-23 17:28 (UTC)
[ But, ugh, again. He'd much rather talk about fighting, weaponry, and the decadence of pain... It's easy to sense the special haughty disdain in the answer to Set's question, even through text that seems to be haughty and disdainful by default. ]
Only when it comes to their use of the Warp. Magic, most of them seem to call it here. It is typical of the mon-keigh to toy with the forces that they think they can control, but these witches are especially arrogant. When reality unfurls and releases the horrors of Sha'iel, they will be reminded of their fragility, and I will tear a bloody concourse through every demon and witch in my way.
[ normal! ]
Otherwise, though. Our knowledge does not overlap.
Mon-keigh are prey and livestock to the Drukhari, god of war. It is only recently that I have deigned to listen to their prattling.
Only when it comes to their use of the Warp. Magic, most of them seem to call it here. It is typical of the mon-keigh to toy with the forces that they think they can control, but these witches are especially arrogant. When reality unfurls and releases the horrors of Sha'iel, they will be reminded of their fragility, and I will tear a bloody concourse through every demon and witch in my way.
[ normal! ]
Otherwise, though. Our knowledge does not overlap.
Mon-keigh are prey and livestock to the Drukhari, god of war. It is only recently that I have deigned to listen to their prattling.
"The intimate pain"? Who cares about that? Weapons are for killing. Who cares if it's fast or slow? A firearm is just as lovely as a knife, to me.
[ normal!
but, when every part of you is a lethal weapon, you don't really end up with a preference. whatever gets the task done in the best way is all he thinks of. not weird shit like causing the most pain ( not anymore, at least ) ( pain, to him, is better applied to the mind and emotions ). ]
My my! That is close to the crux of my own annoyance with them.
Mortals harness power, and forget that even if they spend their lifetime learning how to utilize it, their life still ends. Even what they pass on diminishes with time. Other mortals, in their arrogance, destroy important knowledge of how to work with that power. Or disagree and change things. Nothing remains pure in the hands of life that knows an end. That is why gods exist! So, you need not worry about Sha'iel's horrors emanating from me.
Just mine own!
Come seek me on the open grounds, Reaving Tempest. I am impossible to miss!
[ normal!
but, when every part of you is a lethal weapon, you don't really end up with a preference. whatever gets the task done in the best way is all he thinks of. not weird shit like causing the most pain ( not anymore, at least ) ( pain, to him, is better applied to the mind and emotions ). ]
My my! That is close to the crux of my own annoyance with them.
Mortals harness power, and forget that even if they spend their lifetime learning how to utilize it, their life still ends. Even what they pass on diminishes with time. Other mortals, in their arrogance, destroy important knowledge of how to work with that power. Or disagree and change things. Nothing remains pure in the hands of life that knows an end. That is why gods exist! So, you need not worry about Sha'iel's horrors emanating from me.
Just mine own!
Come seek me on the open grounds, Reaving Tempest. I am impossible to miss!
[ The majority of this message is more than Marazhai really expects, but it does help convince him that maybe this really was a god. Either that, or someone with the same stuffy arrogance of his Aeldari cousins. Itβs intriguing either way, and if itβs more the latter case? Itβll be an extra delight to tear into him. ]
I care, as do all Drukhari. But it is something better experienced than explained in the first place.
So, I will find you. I believe you will find that I am just as difficult to miss.
[ And, impatient thing that he is, he immediately sets out. ]
I care, as do all Drukhari. But it is something better experienced than explained in the first place.
So, I will find you. I believe you will find that I am just as difficult to miss.
[ And, impatient thing that he is, he immediately sets out. ]
[ Set's response comes just in time to stave off Homelander's typically violent instincts in the wake of being made to feel stupid or otherwise lesser. As for his response's contentβ ]
as you should be. you're his dad.
it all just
made me think about my son, too.
how old is he? anubis?
as you should be. you're his dad.
it all just
made me think about my son, too.
how old is he? anubis?
[ He'd rather deal with Homelander's wrath, than share anything about Anubis that could draw ill attention upon him. Set guards his child with the ferocity of a brooding hen, a hostile lioness. ]
Several centuries. He is comparable to... I believe it is a "teenager", by mortal measure. Still small enough to hold, and to yearn to be held by his father. I think of him always.
What of your own son?
Several centuries. He is comparable to... I believe it is a "teenager", by mortal measure. Still small enough to hold, and to yearn to be held by his father. I think of him always.
What of your own son?
still a year and change away from being a teenager, and that's by regular calculation.
i've only known him for the past few years. when he was born, they told me he'd died, hid him away so i wouldn't find out otherwise.
i keep thinking about how things would be different, if i'd known.
do you wish he was here?
i've only known him for the past few years. when he was born, they told me he'd died, hid him away so i wouldn't find out otherwise.
i keep thinking about how things would be different, if i'd known.
do you wish he was here?
They did WHAT?!
[ yet again, set is going to take homelander's side on this one... nevermind that he has no idea that the guy's a psychopath in any capacity. he just strikes set as a particularly sensitive demi-god. ]
Took him away and LIED to you about him?! Let you think that for so long? That is unforgivable. Beyond unforgivable. You will never recover the lost time, no matter what you have going forward. That is theft and torment of the highest caliber to you both, and I hope you killed them all! Hmmph.
[ he's thinking of being parted from HIS OWN child right now... and fuming on homelander's behalf. there is REAL ANGER HERE. all the same, his answer to the other question is uh ]
Absolutely not. I do not want any of these cretins so much as considering him. They're vile.
Besides, it is my responsibility as a father to go to his side, not have him travel to me. I promised him I would return.
[ yet again, set is going to take homelander's side on this one... nevermind that he has no idea that the guy's a psychopath in any capacity. he just strikes set as a particularly sensitive demi-god. ]
Took him away and LIED to you about him?! Let you think that for so long? That is unforgivable. Beyond unforgivable. You will never recover the lost time, no matter what you have going forward. That is theft and torment of the highest caliber to you both, and I hope you killed them all! Hmmph.
[ he's thinking of being parted from HIS OWN child right now... and fuming on homelander's behalf. there is REAL ANGER HERE. all the same, his answer to the other question is uh ]
Absolutely not. I do not want any of these cretins so much as considering him. They're vile.
Besides, it is my responsibility as a father to go to his side, not have him travel to me. I promised him I would return.
[ Already, Homelander is pacing about his room, nodding emphatically as he reads Set's response. Of course, of course Set would get it. ]
of course i killed them. they knew they fucked up, they knew what they were doing. and i wanted my son back.
[ Well, killed one, paralyzed another, but still. ]
you're right.
[ He thinks of Aemond, briefly β of his dissatisfaction with Ryan in some ways, if that makes him a bad fatherβ but no, someone has to teach the boy to be strong. ]
it's not like he's going to figure out how to use his powers without me, anyway.
of course i killed them. they knew they fucked up, they knew what they were doing. and i wanted my son back.
[ Well, killed one, paralyzed another, but still. ]
you're right.
[ He thinks of Aemond, briefly β of his dissatisfaction with Ryan in some ways, if that makes him a bad fatherβ but no, someone has to teach the boy to be strong. ]
it's not like he's going to figure out how to use his powers without me, anyway.
Good. As fathers, it is our privilege to cherish our offspring. Protecting and guiding them is one of our innumerable responsibilities.
[ rog im so worried about the day they disagree, help ]
He is empowered as you are? How blessed.
Do you love him, Homelander?
[ rog im so worried about the day they disagree, help ]
He is empowered as you are? How blessed.
Do you love him, Homelander?
[ me too ............ ]
of course i love him.
[ Of course, twice in the span of just a few messages, for very different emphases. He stares at the words for a moment β of course I love him β the text staring back at him, solid and irrefutable and strange. ]
what kind of father would i be if i didn't?
of course i love him.
[ Of course, twice in the span of just a few messages, for very different emphases. He stares at the words for a moment β of course I love him β the text staring back at him, solid and irrefutable and strange. ]
what kind of father would i be if i didn't?
You would not be a father at all. Just a man claiming an honor that does not belong to him.
[ it's as much what set said to aemond; that any man who does not love his child has no right to call himself "father". even if that child is difficult, a father will still love them wholly. ]
Tell me about him? Your child.
[ it's as much what set said to aemond; that any man who does not love his child has no right to call himself "father". even if that child is difficult, a father will still love them wholly. ]
Tell me about him? Your child.
he's a good kid. just
i guess he's going through growing pains. he didn't know he had powers until we met.
he can't use any of them that well, yet. i think he's scared to.
but i know it's only a matter of time before he gets the hang of it. he'll get stronger.
but he's smart, even beyond that. gives himself homework, if you can believe it.
he likes normal kid stuff. legos, movies, stuff like that.
what about yours?
i guess he's going through growing pains. he didn't know he had powers until we met.
he can't use any of them that well, yet. i think he's scared to.
but i know it's only a matter of time before he gets the hang of it. he'll get stronger.
but he's smart, even beyond that. gives himself homework, if you can believe it.
he likes normal kid stuff. legos, movies, stuff like that.
what about yours?
Be patient with him, Homelander.
Strength can always be built up over time, but a good relationship with one's child can be destroyed in seconds.
[ no matter how harsh and firm set had been with anubis, he had never belittled or mocked his earnest efforts to make him proud. ]
Anubis is a gentle boy. His mother and I were able to raise him from the day he first entered the world.
I used to take him on chariot rides, to show him the lands we lived in and teach him of the weather. Sometimes, just to lull him to sleep when he was fussy or irritable. I am the god of war, so I taught him how to fight from a young age. He was strong enough to run the length of Egypt, and sweet upon helpless animals he could not bear to abandon in their time of need.
I only ever wanted him to become a gentle god, like his mother. Not like me.
Strength can always be built up over time, but a good relationship with one's child can be destroyed in seconds.
[ no matter how harsh and firm set had been with anubis, he had never belittled or mocked his earnest efforts to make him proud. ]
Anubis is a gentle boy. His mother and I were able to raise him from the day he first entered the world.
I used to take him on chariot rides, to show him the lands we lived in and teach him of the weather. Sometimes, just to lull him to sleep when he was fussy or irritable. I am the god of war, so I taught him how to fight from a young age. He was strong enough to run the length of Egypt, and sweet upon helpless animals he could not bear to abandon in their time of need.
I only ever wanted him to become a gentle god, like his mother. Not like me.
[ A part of him bristles at being told what to do, but the conversation moves on quickly enough β and the base of goodwill Set is operating on is enough for him to forget it.
And besides, there's one thing he really sticks on, in Set's message. From the moment he'd known he had a son, he'd wantedβ not to mold him in his image, but he'd operated under the assumption that Ryan would want everything he wants, everything he'd wanted as a child. ]
why wouldn't you want him to be like you?
you're powerful, you're smart, you're a good guy.
any father would be lucky to have a son like you.
And besides, there's one thing he really sticks on, in Set's message. From the moment he'd known he had a son, he'd wantedβ not to mold him in his image, but he'd operated under the assumption that Ryan would want everything he wants, everything he'd wanted as a child. ]
why wouldn't you want him to be like you?
you're powerful, you're smart, you're a good guy.
any father would be lucky to have a son like you.
[ The memory that comes to him, is an easy one. Anubis's weight in his arms, his dark-eyed face turned up like a flower seeking the sun, asking him "why shouldn't i want to be a god like you"? As if the god of war were not a position for the youngest son, the most unloved and isolated of the golden era siblings. ]
Because he has no need to bear the same burdens as I.
His life is his own. Living vicariously through him would be the greatest abuse I could heap upon him.
Because he has no need to bear the same burdens as I.
His life is his own. Living vicariously through him would be the greatest abuse I could heap upon him.
[ Homelander's thoughts fracture. On one side, projection β the impulse to say that isn't what he's doing to Ryan, that he's different. On the other, firm denial β Set is only talking about himself, there's no need for him to think of his own parenting.
So, what it comes down to (almost a more dangerous question in itself): ]
you think of your godhood as a burden?
So, what it comes down to (almost a more dangerous question in itself): ]
you think of your godhood as a burden?
Absolutely not. I have no strong feelings for or against what I was made as.
[ he has no reason to be aggrieved or pleased over what he was made for ( if it were honestly what he was made for, and not the design of a madman obsessed with him ) ]
The consequences and expectations are inescapable, though. That is the trade off β a god has infinite power and grandeur, and in exchange we have no freedom of will or wish.
I am an evil, wicked god. Hated and feared for my power and murderous nature. Why would I want that for my child, who should only know love?
[ he has no reason to be aggrieved or pleased over what he was made for ( if it were honestly what he was made for, and not the design of a madman obsessed with him ) ]
The consequences and expectations are inescapable, though. That is the trade off β a god has infinite power and grandeur, and in exchange we have no freedom of will or wish.
I am an evil, wicked god. Hated and feared for my power and murderous nature. Why would I want that for my child, who should only know love?
what's the point of all this power if we're not free?
[ Because that's the essence of Homelander's inability to understand Set's lot or logic β he gets, on a basic level, that gods are assigned roles, butβ by whom? What higher power could possibly bind them to such narrow paths?
(Has his lot similarly been decided for him?) ]
you're not. evil or wicked. not to me.
[ Because that's the essence of Homelander's inability to understand Set's lot or logic β he gets, on a basic level, that gods are assigned roles, butβ by whom? What higher power could possibly bind them to such narrow paths?
(Has his lot similarly been decided for him?) ]
you're not. evil or wicked. not to me.
The point is
I am proud to be a god. I have never wanted freedom, because it meant being a powerless wretch.
[ Set might not be able to put it into the most articulate words, because it simply is how it is. His understanding is ironclad and innate, less a dream and more a statement within his soul. A god has power and is not free. Mortals are free and have no power. Power and freedom cannot coexist, by the nature of their world and the structure of existence. He's questioned it, resented it, struggled against it β but he was made for such things, as well as to be proud of his superiority and infinitely deeper relationship with the order of all things. ]
That is gentle of you to say. Do not let your faith blind you, though.
I am wicked. I could be luring you in, even now.
I am proud to be a god. I have never wanted freedom, because it meant being a powerless wretch.
[ Set might not be able to put it into the most articulate words, because it simply is how it is. His understanding is ironclad and innate, less a dream and more a statement within his soul. A god has power and is not free. Mortals are free and have no power. Power and freedom cannot coexist, by the nature of their world and the structure of existence. He's questioned it, resented it, struggled against it β but he was made for such things, as well as to be proud of his superiority and infinitely deeper relationship with the order of all things. ]
That is gentle of you to say. Do not let your faith blind you, though.
I am wicked. I could be luring you in, even now.
[ Each new word sparks a new storm in Homelander's head β a fundamental difference in philosophy, the sense that he's somehow stupid for not being able to understand what Set is saying.
He's always wanted to be free, to be understood. He'd thought Set to be the same, and yet here is the incontrovertible proof that, maybe, his faith has been misplaced. But it couldn't be, they'reβ
βfriends.
Or has he been duped again? As he had with everyone else he's ever trusted?
A long pause follows, and then, finally, a clear question from the center of it all, in answer to Set's last text: ]
are you?
He's always wanted to be free, to be understood. He'd thought Set to be the same, and yet here is the incontrovertible proof that, maybe, his faith has been misplaced. But it couldn't be, they'reβ
βfriends.
Or has he been duped again? As he had with everyone else he's ever trusted?
A long pause follows, and then, finally, a clear question from the center of it all, in answer to Set's last text: ]
are you?
[ Is he trying to dupe Homelander? To lure him in for some ulterior scheme, ploy or plot? To jeopardize the fragile, tenuous shape of friendship between them?
Set is many horrible things, but a liar is not one of them. Not to others. ( Yet, a great liar to himself. ) ]
Not with purpose. Not you.
I am only saying, so as not to break your heart.
[ If Homelander feels lured, that... is the affect of a god who truly believes he drives men to madness. ]
Set is many horrible things, but a liar is not one of them. Not to others. ( Yet, a great liar to himself. ) ]
Not with purpose. Not you.
I am only saying, so as not to break your heart.
[ If Homelander feels lured, that... is the affect of a god who truly believes he drives men to madness. ]
[ That, at least, is a relief. Even that further intimation of softness, that his heart could be broken at all (though of course it could, has been, over and over), is surprisingly welcome, for the fact that he knows Set's strength to be great, that he would care at all about doing him any harm.
He was a fool to doubt it. ]
it's okay.
[ Because he's not really sure how else to put the way he feels into words. That he doesn't think Set would warn him like this if he actually meant to hurt him, that it's a risk everyone takes in caring about anything at all. That he was born to be indestructible. ]
and thanks.
for telling me about anubis.
He was a fool to doubt it. ]
it's okay.
[ Because he's not really sure how else to put the way he feels into words. That he doesn't think Set would warn him like this if he actually meant to hurt him, that it's a risk everyone takes in caring about anything at all. That he was born to be indestructible. ]
and thanks.
for telling me about anubis.
[ Of all people, Set would understand Homelander most intimately β the pride and pleasure and violence and burden of power, and the fragility of the heart. An indestructible body, to some, is a challenge and not a deterrent. ]
I am glad to know of your boy, too.
We will get home to them.
I am glad to know of your boy, too.
We will get home to them.
[ are you having a peaceful evening? are you enjoying the sights and sounds of saltburnt? well, congratulations on finding a new companion tonight: this dog, with glowing hell eyes and fire collar and a stinky sulfuric perfume wafting along with her. if you step away from her, she will follow. if you move towards her, she will step back. just a little dance-y dance for about a few minutes before she decides she's had enough and leaves.
she knows you now. time to report back to her human. ]
she knows you now. time to report back to her human. ]
[ hey uh
who the fuck do you think you are doggie?? how dare you just dance around and a) not allow him to pet you and b) think you can just spy on him and leave without paying your/your master's dues
so yeah set's going to try to chase her down, relying on his speed and bloodhound-sharp nose to pursue
]
who the fuck do you think you are doggie?? how dare you just dance around and a) not allow him to pet you and b) think you can just spy on him and leave without paying your/your master's dues
so yeah set's going to try to chase her down, relying on his speed and bloodhound-sharp nose to pursue
]Come back here! I will have you know I like dogs!
[ says the absolutely DEMONIC redhead, attempting to speak the Language of Beasts as if dita might understand his heavily accented voice.
by the time she dives into the fireplace, he collides with it hard enough to dent the stone, crack the wall it is embedded in with his own eager rush. bright eyes and petulant, pouting mouth
aw bye dita.... he will probably post on the internet about you in a moment or two ]
[ says the absolutely DEMONIC redhead, attempting to speak the Language of Beasts as if dita might understand his heavily accented voice.
by the time she dives into the fireplace, he collides with it hard enough to dent the stone, crack the wall it is embedded in with his own eager rush. bright eyes and petulant, pouting mouth
aw bye dita.... he will probably post on the internet about you in a moment or two ]
[ ah? ]
There was a variety of ways, dependent on what aspect of mine or which domain they wished to appeal to.
Worship helps strengthen any god, yes. In exchange for one's faith, we empower our proxies and adherents.
It is akin to any business transaction, but worship is an expectation. A god is made to be adored.
There was a variety of ways, dependent on what aspect of mine or which domain they wished to appeal to.
Worship helps strengthen any god, yes. In exchange for one's faith, we empower our proxies and adherents.
It is akin to any business transaction, but worship is an expectation. A god is made to be adored.
they've been gone for a long time
no one remembers how to worship them
or at least, none among my people do. that is something i would love to know
so i suppose i was thinking of them.
but i was also thinking about you
i talked to a woman who said her god doesn't want them to tell outsiders about their worship. that struck me as strange, i thought a god would want to reach as many people as possible.
no one remembers how to worship them
or at least, none among my people do. that is something i would love to know
so i suppose i was thinking of them.
but i was also thinking about you
i talked to a woman who said her god doesn't want them to tell outsiders about their worship. that struck me as strange, i thought a god would want to reach as many people as possible.
Some gods are not interested in reaching a vast number of adherents, only specific ones.
Worship is also β like a key, for a lock. You cannot replace one form with another, and expect it to resurrect a forgotten or dead god. At least, that is how it works in my world.
Worship is also β like a key, for a lock. You cannot replace one form with another, and expect it to resurrect a forgotten or dead god. At least, that is how it works in my world.
[ A knock at Setβs door alerts him to the presence of one Jonty Balfour, who offers him a very proper head nod in greeting once he answers.]
Set, my boy! Jolly good show in November, such an β¦ an exciting time! For all those involved. You certainly kept the old birds on their toes! This is for you.
[ He hands off a small box, with an expensive watch inside. Surprise β itβs actually a plot coin! Enjoy! ]
Set, my boy! Jolly good show in November, such an β¦ an exciting time! For all those involved. You certainly kept the old birds on their toes! This is for you.
[ He hands off a small box, with an expensive watch inside. Surprise β itβs actually a plot coin! Enjoy! ]
[ sometime after christmas, wrapped in red and gold paper, tidily and well done as grace enlisted some of the staff to help her, a gift is delivered to set's door. inside the box is a leather case that unfolds into a backgammon set. ]
Set,
My late husband's terrible family owned a board game empire so I got you a board game from another company. Enjoy!
Thanks.
Happy Honda Days,
Grace
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/red-gold-28150d34eba347c6853a657551fa890e.jpeg){kind=link}
Set,
My late husband's terrible family owned a board game empire so I got you a board game from another company. Enjoy!
Thanks.
Happy Honda Days,
Grace
( it's difficult to hide gifts from someone you share a suite with, especially when both of them frequently come and go from each others' rooms as they please β so shanks doesn't try, instead simply leaves the items he'd procured unwrapped on one of set's dressers or tables along with a letter in his wobbly cursive that only seems to get worse rather than better as set reads down the page. the vase, at least, shanks attached a bow to, and the earrings are cushioned in a red jewelry box, but the carnelian hippo figurine stands on its own without any decoration at all. most of his effort, it seems, went into writing the letter. )
[an attempted rendering of π©]
As I understand it, offerings of gifts are a customary way of honoring the gods of your land, though I admit I've little knowledge or interest in venerating any of them but you. Of course, I can't help but wonder: is this an act of worship or simply an expression of goodwill during this season they call Christmastime?
The vase, remarkably, resembles the construction of my ship, the Red Force. The water it holds, I'm told, is blessed from the Nile itself β I thought you might be missing home, as I am. I only wish I could give you more of it. (And if I've been hoodwinked by a sly merchant, I expect I'll never hear the end of it.)
Additionally, several of the books I've read mentioned the hippopotamus being sacred to you β it's only a small token, but one I hope you'll appreciate nonetheless. The earrings, likewise, reminded me of you β your hair, your eyes, the color of you in my mind's eye, even as I write this letter. Of us, truthfully: you, the vast Red Lands; and I, the product of a life at sea. Some might think it strange, this union of ours β and yet does the desert not eventually meet the waves? Does the kiss of seafoam not trail the furthest reach of your sands?
You told me before you don't want for much β still, I found myself in the market scarcely thinking of anyone but you. Perhaps it's silly to be writing this down, when I could just as easily tell you, but I imagine you'll be finding me soon enough.
Happy Christmas, as they say.
With love,
[a poor rendering of Shanks' jolly roger]
Edited (now with the correct letter) 2024-12-10 05:51 (UTC)
[ Two boxes are delivered β by Homelander himself β to Set's door on Christmas Eve. Both are wrapped in shiny red paper and tied with blue ribbon, though one box is noticeably larger β and heavier β than the other. It seems both silly and natural to get gifts for a god β on the one hand, what would a god possibly need, but on the other, worship is the way of things, isn't it?
When Set tears away the wrapping paper, he'll find:
When Set tears away the wrapping paper, he'll find:
β In the larger box, a sand table, made of white stone.There's also a card, in which has been written: ]
β In the smaller box, a vintage-style baseball and glove.
Set,
I know the table's a bit clunky, but I thought it might remind you of home. The ball and glove, they're for you and your son, whenever we end up making it back home. It's a bit of a tradition, where I'm from, for dads to play catch with their boys.
There are a lot of things I hate about this place, but meeting you isn't one of them. Friends are a rare thing. I think we both know that.
You know, maybe you do still exist in my world. Maybe we just haven't met yet. Wouldn't that be nice?
Happy holidays,
Homelander
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