Indeed... [If one innocent word can convey sultry suggestiveness, he's managed it.]
I merely speak the truth.
[Which is ironic since he would find it difficult to believe it if Aether were to claim the same.]
I should hope not, now that I know all of you... Intimately.
[Watching Aether's expression keenly as they share a kiss, he runs a hand over the small of the traveler's back, clawed gloves carefully raking the bare skin there to tantalize both of them. He has to laugh at being called 'greedy', though.]
You don't know the half of it. [That admission gets a teasing smirk.] That is something you'll have to earn, I'm afraid.
[Meaning he's not given to blushing willy-nilly without reason. Best of luck, Aether!]
[There are times when he wonders if Vanitas could turn any and all words into something suggestive.]
And I do too. Only the truth.
[And Vanitas better believe it!
The traveler shudders ever so slightly when that hand grazes his bare skin. He presses closer longing for more contact, his wings reach to Vanitas as well, as if to envelope him.]
So you're making it a challenge? I'm good at those.
[He's absolutely vowing himself to do it, to make Vanitas blush...
But suddenly, Aether pulls away. They're getting too heated up in here.]
...But all of that has to wait until the talk with Vincent. [As much as he wishes to just go for it, to let them both be greedy with one another, he can't. Vincent's promise is more important and until they all agree on their current situation, he wants to respect it.]
[That in itself sounds like a challenge... (Vanitas, no.)]
Hmm... I trust you. I think you would rather burn than have lies leave your lips.
[His other hand comes up to rub gently over said lips, as his own pull back into a feral grin. The wings around them are nice, shielding them and providing more warmth for his ever cold veins.]
I like your fighting spirit. Show me then, mon étoile...
[As Aether pulls away though, Vanitas almost pouts, disappointment at having his fun spoiled so soon clear. But in the end he merely heaves a sigh, fingers grazing over the traveler's side as he trails his hand back to his own side.]
Very well then. You truly are too noble and honorable for your own good. But I respect that. [He feels it would be fine to ask later, but doesn't wish to get Aether in hot water, so, wait they shall, as boring as that is.]
Actually, that's not true. I can lie if I have to. I'm not as innocent as you think.
[Vanitas just didn't witness it yet. Not like Aether gets much more to say when his companion clearly wants more and more of him, pressing a finger over his lip, wanting the challenge that the traveler presents to him. Sadly, showing him will have to wait.
In a way, Aether is disappointed as well, but he doesn't want to upset Vincent or fail him.]
It's something to look forward to, don't you think? [He tries to laugh it away, but his heart is still racing.] For now, though... Ah right. Did you manage to talk to Xiao?
And yet I imagine they would be the sweetest of lies...
[Yeah, press X to doubt, sorry, Aether, you just give off Good Boy vibes. But he believes him, at least to a degree, because otherwise that would mean he's lying now, right??
Alas, they'll be good boys for now and stick to behaving themselves. Vincent deserves that much respect.]
Very true. It's difficult to argue with logic like that. [Vanitas at least can laugh, though he does steal a light kiss, brief and almost chaste for him. The subject change gets a snort, however.] I did. How much good it managed, I can't say. But trust me when I say I was on my best behavior. I still think he doesn't care for me, though.
[Somehow he sounds more amused than put out about it...]
[But he doesn't want to talk about this more than it's already said. It doesn't seem like Vanitas can be convinced now anyway.
The sweet kiss is met with a soft, warm look in Aether's eyes. He honestly can't get enough of the other's affections and all those gentle, tender ones are making his heart beat only faster.]
You did your best. I think you deserve some praise for that. [He grins and reaches up, petting Vanitas' head a little, before reaching towards his cat ears and gently scratching behind one.] I still think both of you are similar in some ways.
True. Though if anyone can make it so, it'd be you.
[That's all he'll say on the matter should Aether wish to drop it.
How could he not when faced with that benevolent gaze? It'd be as futile as him attempting to be mean deliberately to Aether; it just wouldn't do.]
Oh~? And how might you be planning on rewarding me, hmm...? [He just barely gets the question out when the traveler starts petting him and scritching at his ears, eliciting a low moan that slides into a pleased purr as he leans into the touch.] ...? How so? I find it difficult to see.
He's already said that both Vanitas and Xiao try to push people away due to their painful pasts, they just do it in completely opposite ways. They expect people to hate them, they see no worth in themselves, yet they try as best as they can to save someone else.
Isn't it all similar?
But pointing it out all now seems like it would destroy the carefree mood, so instead Aether smiles only more and says:]
You're both cute stray cats.
[He never stops petting Vanitas' ears, as if to make a point.]
[Honestly, Vanitas expects an answer along the lines of those thoughts, even though he's trying to brush off their similarities for his own pride and out of a desire to not be seen as someone in need of pity.
He's in control of his life now, he doesn't need such sympathies, well-intentioned as they are.
Though he's hardly expecting to be called out as a cat. It makes him blush and huff, glancing away.
Score one to Aether!]
Tch... I thought he was something else...
[Either literally or metaphorically. Still, he can't help leaning into the touch, tail swishing lazily at the attention.]
[There's a content smile on Aether's face as he watches the other. His hand travels lower, rubbing gently under Vanitas' chin.]
Ah, so making you blush isn't that difficult.
[He can't really help himself, enjoying his small victory.]
But you're right. I think his true form is something of a bird and the Soul that he was given is not that of a cat either... But he still acts like one. [There's warm fondness as he says that.]
[Despite his best efforts, Vanitas can't help tipping his head up to relish the contact, eyes half closing as a faint rumble grows in the back of his throat. The first hints of a purr.]
You...
[Despite being growled out, his clawed hands rest upon Aether's hips, squeezing gently.]
Little chickadee better be careful that I don't end up eating him. I might want you to myself. [As though he would stand even the smallest of chances against Xiao...]
[Shamelessly, Aether does not hide even a bit of his amusement at Vanitas' reactions. He only pets him more, much like he would any other cat, curious what touches would make him break into purrs.
There's a big grin on his face.]
Hmm? I'm pretty sure you should be careful not to get stabbed by some claws. [He's only saying it as it is! He doesn't want any of them to get hurt anyway.] Can I have you for myself as well?
[He leans in brushing his lips against Vanitas'.]
Oh, you would do that? Why don't we get ourselves comfortable then?
[He laughs, reaching for Vanitas' hand and leading him towards the bed.]
[It wouldn't be half as embarrassing if Aether weren't quite so smug about being able to reduce him to a feline state. But since he is, it should come as no great shock that Vanitas' cheeks heat up as his brows furrow and lip juts out in a pout.]
It would hardly be anything new. [Since Aether's seen his numerous scars already, including the set of claw marks upon his side.] I don't see why not.
[Finally, he stops being huffy in order to return the kiss, though having his hand grasped leaves him surprised and floundering.]
I'm not saying no, but-- [Even being smaller than he used to be, there's still a lot of him and not enough lap! ...doesn't mean he can't try, though.]
[Hm, no. He doesn't want any more scars to be added on Vanitas' skin. Aether smile becomes softer for a moment there, but grows as his kiss is returned and then he sees the surprise on his partner's face.]
But? [He asks, then laughs.] Don't worry, I have a different idea.
[They enter the bedroom, that now hosts a big bed that takes up majority of the space. Aether lies down on his back among the pillows and opens his arms.]
[Bad enough he got a new one through the week-long torture session, yeah. That delicate smile does wonderful things to Vanitas' heart, leaving him feeling warm inside.]
...nothing. [Somehow the sound of Aether's laughter flusters him more, leading to the briefest of scowls to grace his face.] Oh? Do tell, in that case.
[Upon spotting the bed, Vanitas can't help whistling appreciatively, then eyeing the open invitation only momentarily before following suit in order to take up position in the traveler's arms.]
Aether wraps his arms around the other's neck, bringing him close to his chest so he can freely pet his ears and hair. There's a soft smile on his face.]
Am I? I just do what I want.
[There's nothing good or bad in his actions. He's just enjoying his time as much as he can.]
[Indeed. That's why Vanitas doesn't mind the contact, warm and sweet as it is. He props his chin up upon Aether's chest, ears pricked forward curiously as his tail sways in contentment. Though at that answer he can't help marveling at him with wider eyes, as though seeing him in a new light.]
...I see. Then we're not so different.
[Because that's exactly how Vanitas himself behaves, doing as he pleases from moment to moment, without regard for others. Or so he says, anyway. Tipping his head down, he presses a kiss to the traveler's heart.]
[His eyes soften as he admires the other. The small gesture moves him to the core and his gaze is full of endless adoration for his companion.
He loves him. He truly does. He loves every moments they spend together. It gives him so much peace and happiness, just to be here with Vanitas comfortable by his side.]
We're not.
[He says with a soft laugh, then presses a soft kiss to the top of his partner's head.]
[There's so much emotion in Aether's gaze that it makes Vanitas shiver a bit; had it been anyone else, he probably would've been running for the hills out of fear of being so loved. Yet because he knows the traveler is just that - someone who can never remain - it's less frightening than it'd otherwise be.
Or perhaps that's just a lie he's telling himself so he won't get emotionally attached. It's difficult to say. What he does know is that it's not so bad, being here with him.]
Would you say that makes us selfish...?
[Ears twitch, but otherwise all he does is blush heavily, tucking his face against Aether's chest to obscure his face.]
[Aether doesn't comment on the blush, simply smiling and relaxing against the pillows. He doesn't want to overwhelm Vanitas, so he gently brushes the other's hair as he thinks about the question asked.]
Maybe a little? But as long as we're not hurting anyone... it's fine.
[Everyone could use a tiny bit of selfish moments in their life. People can't live never thinking of themselves even for a brief time. It would be tiring.]
[It's definitely a good thing that Aether is considerate enough to keep from overdoing it, as Vanitas would have likely struggled with too much teasing. Instead, he meets the traveler's answer with a smile of his own.]
Good. That's what I was thinking. There's no need for us to hold back...
[At least regarding each other. They can ensure the other is properly cared for and isn't spending too much time dwelling on things.]
[Even though Vanitas is doubtful they'll be able to remain together for an indefinite period of time, he shares in Aether's sentiments, humming softly in response.]
That's right. There's no point in bemoaning that which we can't change, or the inevitable.
[While the subject is a sad one, it doesn't lessen the warmth he feels from the traveler.]
It's good to treasure that which is fleeting, as you never know when you may lose it.
[Especially connections with other people. That's a pain he knows all too well.]
[It's sad that they both know all too well what loss feels like and how fleeting the moments can be, even though they view it in completely different ways considering Aether's long lifespan.
The traveler sighs a little, then wraps the other in a tight hug, before letting go and smiling again. There's still some dose of sadness in that expression, but he's trying to keep the mood light.]
And this is why you can't get rid of me. I'll persist by your side for as long as I can.
[It is rather odd; one would think the longer lived of the pair of them would be more bitter and jaded, yet that's Vanitas, who thinks it's better to not get close to anyone. Even with his stupid feline soul trying to have him imprint with people, he still tries to push them away.
The hug, however brief, earns a surprised noise and a bewildered expression as Aether pulls away. Sometimes he's just not sure what to make of the traveler...]
I suppose that means there's no point in me trying to get rid of you, huh?
[Despite his words, there's a faint smile playing at his lips. This guy is just so damn bright that it's hard to hide from his light.]
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I merely speak the truth.
[Which is ironic since he would find it difficult to believe it if Aether were to claim the same.]
I should hope not, now that I know all of you... Intimately.
[Watching Aether's expression keenly as they share a kiss, he runs a hand over the small of the traveler's back, clawed gloves carefully raking the bare skin there to tantalize both of them. He has to laugh at being called 'greedy', though.]
You don't know the half of it. [That admission gets a teasing smirk.] That is something you'll have to earn, I'm afraid.
[Meaning he's not given to blushing willy-nilly without reason. Best of luck, Aether!]
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And I do too. Only the truth.
[And Vanitas better believe it!
The traveler shudders ever so slightly when that hand grazes his bare skin. He presses closer longing for more contact, his wings reach to Vanitas as well, as if to envelope him.]
So you're making it a challenge? I'm good at those.
[He's absolutely vowing himself to do it, to make Vanitas blush...
But suddenly, Aether pulls away. They're getting too heated up in here.]
...But all of that has to wait until the talk with Vincent. [As much as he wishes to just go for it, to let them both be greedy with one another, he can't. Vincent's promise is more important and until they all agree on their current situation, he wants to respect it.]
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Hmm... I trust you. I think you would rather burn than have lies leave your lips.
[His other hand comes up to rub gently over said lips, as his own pull back into a feral grin. The wings around them are nice, shielding them and providing more warmth for his ever cold veins.]
I like your fighting spirit. Show me then, mon étoile...
[As Aether pulls away though, Vanitas almost pouts, disappointment at having his fun spoiled so soon clear. But in the end he merely heaves a sigh, fingers grazing over the traveler's side as he trails his hand back to his own side.]
Very well then. You truly are too noble and honorable for your own good. But I respect that. [He feels it would be fine to ask later, but doesn't wish to get Aether in hot water, so, wait they shall, as boring as that is.]
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Actually, that's not true. I can lie if I have to. I'm not as innocent as you think.
[Vanitas just didn't witness it yet. Not like Aether gets much more to say when his companion clearly wants more and more of him, pressing a finger over his lip, wanting the challenge that the traveler presents to him. Sadly, showing him will have to wait.
In a way, Aether is disappointed as well, but he doesn't want to upset Vincent or fail him.]
It's something to look forward to, don't you think? [He tries to laugh it away, but his heart is still racing.] For now, though... Ah right. Did you manage to talk to Xiao?
[Changing the subject.]
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[Yeah, press X to doubt, sorry, Aether, you just give off Good Boy vibes. But he believes him, at least to a degree, because otherwise that would mean he's lying now, right??
Alas, they'll be good boys for now and stick to behaving themselves. Vincent deserves that much respect.]
Very true. It's difficult to argue with logic like that. [Vanitas at least can laugh, though he does steal a light kiss, brief and almost chaste for him. The subject change gets a snort, however.] I did. How much good it managed, I can't say. But trust me when I say I was on my best behavior. I still think he doesn't care for me, though.
[Somehow he sounds more amused than put out about it...]
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[But he doesn't want to talk about this more than it's already said. It doesn't seem like Vanitas can be convinced now anyway.
The sweet kiss is met with a soft, warm look in Aether's eyes. He honestly can't get enough of the other's affections and all those gentle, tender ones are making his heart beat only faster.]
You did your best. I think you deserve some praise for that. [He grins and reaches up, petting Vanitas' head a little, before reaching towards his cat ears and gently scratching behind one.] I still think both of you are similar in some ways.
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[That's all he'll say on the matter should Aether wish to drop it.
How could he not when faced with that benevolent gaze? It'd be as futile as him attempting to be mean deliberately to Aether; it just wouldn't do.]
Oh~? And how might you be planning on rewarding me, hmm...? [He just barely gets the question out when the traveler starts petting him and scritching at his ears, eliciting a low moan that slides into a pleased purr as he leans into the touch.] ...? How so? I find it difficult to see.
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He's already said that both Vanitas and Xiao try to push people away due to their painful pasts, they just do it in completely opposite ways. They expect people to hate them, they see no worth in themselves, yet they try as best as they can to save someone else.
Isn't it all similar?
But pointing it out all now seems like it would destroy the carefree mood, so instead Aether smiles only more and says:]
You're both cute stray cats.
[He never stops petting Vanitas' ears, as if to make a point.]
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He's in control of his life now, he doesn't need such sympathies, well-intentioned as they are.
Though he's hardly expecting to be called out as a cat. It makes him blush and huff, glancing away.
Score one to Aether!]
Tch... I thought he was something else...
[Either literally or metaphorically. Still, he can't help leaning into the touch, tail swishing lazily at the attention.]
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Ah, so making you blush isn't that difficult.
[He can't really help himself, enjoying his small victory.]
But you're right. I think his true form is something of a bird and the Soul that he was given is not that of a cat either... But he still acts like one. [There's warm fondness as he says that.]
I like cats.
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You...
[Despite being growled out, his clawed hands rest upon Aether's hips, squeezing gently.]
Little chickadee better be careful that I don't end up eating him. I might want you to myself. [As though he would stand even the smallest of chances against Xiao...]
Don't tempt me to curl up in your lap.
[He's kidding. Probably.]
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There's a big grin on his face.]
Hmm? I'm pretty sure you should be careful not to get stabbed by some claws. [He's only saying it as it is! He doesn't want any of them to get hurt anyway.] Can I have you for myself as well?
[He leans in brushing his lips against Vanitas'.]
Oh, you would do that? Why don't we get ourselves comfortable then?
[He laughs, reaching for Vanitas' hand and leading him towards the bed.]
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It would hardly be anything new. [Since Aether's seen his numerous scars already, including the set of claw marks upon his side.] I don't see why not.
[Finally, he stops being huffy in order to return the kiss, though having his hand grasped leaves him surprised and floundering.]
I'm not saying no, but-- [Even being smaller than he used to be, there's still a lot of him and not enough lap! ...doesn't mean he can't try, though.]
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But? [He asks, then laughs.] Don't worry, I have a different idea.
[They enter the bedroom, that now hosts a big bed that takes up majority of the space. Aether lies down on his back among the pillows and opens his arms.]
Join me?
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...nothing. [Somehow the sound of Aether's laughter flusters him more, leading to the briefest of scowls to grace his face.] Oh? Do tell, in that case.
[Upon spotting the bed, Vanitas can't help whistling appreciatively, then eyeing the open invitation only momentarily before following suit in order to take up position in the traveler's arms.]
You really are too good, you know...
[Both to him and in general.]
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Aether wraps his arms around the other's neck, bringing him close to his chest so he can freely pet his ears and hair. There's a soft smile on his face.]
Am I? I just do what I want.
[There's nothing good or bad in his actions. He's just enjoying his time as much as he can.]
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...I see. Then we're not so different.
[Because that's exactly how Vanitas himself behaves, doing as he pleases from moment to moment, without regard for others. Or so he says, anyway. Tipping his head down, he presses a kiss to the traveler's heart.]
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He loves him. He truly does. He loves every moments they spend together. It gives him so much peace and happiness, just to be here with Vanitas comfortable by his side.]
We're not.
[He says with a soft laugh, then presses a soft kiss to the top of his partner's head.]
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Or perhaps that's just a lie he's telling himself so he won't get emotionally attached. It's difficult to say. What he does know is that it's not so bad, being here with him.]
Would you say that makes us selfish...?
[Ears twitch, but otherwise all he does is blush heavily, tucking his face against Aether's chest to obscure his face.]
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Maybe a little? But as long as we're not hurting anyone... it's fine.
[Everyone could use a tiny bit of selfish moments in their life. People can't live never thinking of themselves even for a brief time. It would be tiring.]
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Good. That's what I was thinking. There's no need for us to hold back...
[At least regarding each other. They can ensure the other is properly cared for and isn't spending too much time dwelling on things.]
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That's true.
[He closes his eyes, letting the warmth of the other sink deep into his tired, lonely heart.]
Especially here, when we don't know how long we will remain in this place.
[He doesn't like stepping into that sadder topic, but...]
...I'm thankful for every moment we can be together.
[His words are spoken quietly.]
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That's right. There's no point in bemoaning that which we can't change, or the inevitable.
[While the subject is a sad one, it doesn't lessen the warmth he feels from the traveler.]
It's good to treasure that which is fleeting, as you never know when you may lose it.
[Especially connections with other people. That's a pain he knows all too well.]
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The traveler sighs a little, then wraps the other in a tight hug, before letting go and smiling again. There's still some dose of sadness in that expression, but he's trying to keep the mood light.]
And this is why you can't get rid of me. I'll persist by your side for as long as I can.
[He laughs.
He wants to stay there for as long as he can.]
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The hug, however brief, earns a surprised noise and a bewildered expression as Aether pulls away. Sometimes he's just not sure what to make of the traveler...]
I suppose that means there's no point in me trying to get rid of you, huh?
[Despite his words, there's a faint smile playing at his lips. This guy is just so damn bright that it's hard to hide from his light.]
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