[That's the problem with these fancy places: they're decorated to be symmetrical, save perhaps the paintings on the walls or the vases of flowers lining the halls. And even Vanitas wouldn't blame Noé for getting that mixed up. So he backs out and turns to head down the hallway, passing by the next two large rooms until they come to the third, which he opens with a hopeful stare. It looks similar to the other rooms, though decorated differently, with more books and globes, and even a astronomical models here and there.]
[He recognizes the art on the walls, the globes. He steps inside, glancing around and wondering how obvious this book of Vanitas's might be among all of the others. But then, Vanitas would probably recognize it, he figures. He checks at the desk, finding some papers that are probably important that he pays no mind to, some writing utensils, and a book that seems to be a novel. Then he flits over to check the bookshelves. Maybe it was there among the others.]
[Excitement has him charging ahead rather recklessly, peering over the desk in a hurry before moving on to the numerous packed bookshelves. His eyes skim the rows and rows upon rows of novels and diaries and ledgers, searching for his one precious tome. Silently he prays that it's here among everything, even if it's on a far up shelf.]
Blue leather with silver bindings and black pages. An astermite gem on the cover and a silver chain attached on its spine...
[That makes it easier to narrow things down at least. He glances at the spines of the books, ruling out any that aren't blue. He tries not to get too distracted, even if otherwise he might have been curious and wanted to read some of these. It takes him a moment to find a book on the shelf with a blue spine, and he holds it up to show Vanitas. He tilts his head as he glances to the other, his hair shifting as he points to it. At least with how tall he is, it's easy for him to reach the higher shelves.]
[Thankfully the chain is a dead giveaway, meaning that once Noé locates a book with that feature and it also happens to be blue, they're in luck. Vanitas absolutely beams at the sight of his precious tome, gloved hands working overtime in a 'gimme gimme' motion as he runs up to snatch the book and confirm for himself that it is indeed what they seek.]
That's it! You found it! You beautiful man--!! I could kiss you!
[Again. Hell, he might do it anyway to get some of the euphoria out of his system.]
[He blinks at that last, but does shrug and give a small smile as he passes the book to Vanitas. At least the other has it back, since it had seemed important to him. Chances were, if the book were more specific to Vanitas, he doubted if his Teacher could use it anyway. So it's probably fine. He is relieved they have found it, that it wasn't on his Teacher's person. Merely kept safe among his other books for the time being. There was something endearing about seeing Vanitas so happy, though. He'd like to get to do that again, he thinks.]
[He reiterates, only half paying attention as he opens the book to seemingly blank pages to double check that all is well with it. With him concentrating, glowing formulae starts appearing on its pages before he suddenly slams the book shut, satisfied everything is well. Then he whirls to face Noé, grabbing him by the collar and dragging him down to do as he promised: kissing him on the lips. It's a lingering kiss, one that lasts several long moments before he parts and lets go of the vampire to allow him to stand again.]
[He blinks, violet eyes widening briefly before he returns the kiss, a hand at Vanitas's shoulder as the other pulls him down. Maybe because it is still so new, but it is easy to surprise the vampire with. That, or he is just that oblivious to quite how attracted and attached Vanitas is to him already. Likely some combination, really. Still, he tilts his head and parts his lips obediently, hand brushing through Vanitas's hair before straightening.
He nods vigorously, enthusiastically, and all but beaming and bouncing on the balls of his feet in answer.]
[By this point it's difficult to tell whether he's doing these things out of a desire to manipulate Noé or genuine affection... Likely a combination, but probably leaning more towards the latter after everything they've already done together. He feels a sense of responsibility for the vampire, and certainly some protectiveness towards him. He's not keen on the idea of him being used, either. So he snags Noé by the hand, hurrying them from the room before they're caught in there.]
Alright! Let's go! You know where the exit is, right?
[He calls out after recovering from the initial surprise at the other's haste. Though he supposes Vanitas has good reason to. It isn't like he was apparently supposed to be out of his room. Still, he is pulled onward as Vanitas grabs his hand and hurries off back to the hall. If he had any thoughts initially of at least saying goodbye to Domi or his Teacher, they're gone as he just focuses on keeping his feet moving and trying to remember the directions. Calling out when they need to turn. Leading Vanitas to one of the exits he recalls.]
[Thankfully it seems that the place is surprisingly devoid of guards and staff, though Vanitas doesn't let this suspicious fact slow him down, instead following Noé's directions to get them towards the outer level of the mansion. Things start looking up once he can see a garden through the windows again, though he hopes it's on the outside rather than an inner courtyard... Eventually they reach what looks like a side entrance, used by the staff and tradesmen. Hefting the huge latch on the door, Vanitas peers out and--
--no one still! Just sweet freedom...! So he swings the door open wide, taking in a breath of fresh air, though he still seems to hesitate at the threshold. Turning slightly to Noé, he squeezes his hand.]
[Get him all those delicious pastries! See all the sights! Though honestly, the sight of.....a guy making balloon animals or shapes would probably impress him. It wouldn't take much, really. Still, he nods, all but beaming in his excitement about going to Paris. The vampire isn't thinking too much about how suspicious it might seem that there's no staff around. Nor is he immediately considering Domi and her likely panic and fury once she finds out he's escaped. And the potential assumptions that might result, given that Vanitas would also be gone. He's too excited about all the delicious food and all the sights he will get to experience, all but pulling Vanitas as he steps outside into the sunshine. No, he isn't considering that the other should probably take the lead, given that he has zero idea where he is going. Yet.]
[Honestly, he's going to reward Noé with all the treats and entertainment he can fit into a single day, and then every day afterwards. It hasn't yet occurred to him either that they probably shouldn't hang around Paris for long, given there will be people after them, both on the vampire and human sides. But he's counting on it taking them a while to realize where they might make for. So he allows himself to be tugged along, beaming as well as they step out into the light and hurry down the path leading away from the mansion. There's a gate there, but... he has faith Noé can take care of it. Knock it off its hinges if need be.]
[More like when isn't he? But. Well. Maybe that isn't so surprising given all that had occurred between them earlier. He's not really considering that the others might be worried and looking for the two of them eventually. Just that Vanitas wants to go to Paris and he's always wanted to, so. It just makes sense. To go together? Right?
He initially tries the gate to check if it is unlocked or easily unlocked first. If it isn't, then he'll just pick up Vanitas and leap over it if necessary. As if he is going to let a gate stop him from trying the delicious treats in Paris!]
[That doesn't surprise him, and quite frankly he's hungry too, so that will be their first order of business once they return to the human world. Though he's hardly expecting what happens when Noé finds the gate locked. Getting scooped up in order for them to leap straight over the barrier leaves him yelping, although he has enough presence of mind to clamp a hand over his mouth to stifle the noise so they don't attract any unwanted attention.
Once on the other side, he gestures toward where he remembers the portal back to Paris being, hoping Noé will simply continue carrying him; if his speed is as good as his agility, then that would be the fastest way to escape this place.]
[At least he isn't being too loud. But he isn't making an active effort to keep quiet either. He pauses to offer to put Vanitas down once over the gate if he'd like, belatedly realizing he....probably should have asked before just. Picking him up like that. Oh well. Still, he glances in the direction Vanitas gestures to, nodding and starting off that way, the prospect of trying the delicious pastries in Paris motivating him to quicken his pace in the process. If nothing else, it is easy enough to motivate him to do something, Vanitas is learning.]
[Well, he's certainly learning a lot about Noé in short order! Both in his physical capabilities and his personality, for what does and doesn't work as a means of encouragement. Certainly a case of a carrot on a stick with this one - or perhaps dessert on a plate is more accurate. Still, it's handy to know that the vampire is easily pleased with the thought of food he enjoys. That much Vanitas can easily provide, multiple times over.
As they practically glide across the path, he can't help marveling at Noé's abilities, both his strength and speed, to say nothing of the grace with which he accomplishes both. Here and there he gives directions as needed, until they've reached the barrier between worlds. Thankfully, with Noé carrying him, there's no need to worry about him getting trapped.]
Almost there. It's just through here, then we'll be in Paris.
[It hadn't exactly come up. Besides that, he probably just assumes that if Vanitas is aware of vampires and all, he likely knows of their comparatively enhanced strength and speed. He's at least good about following directions when he has them. He's just otherwise useless at finding his way around. So he's quick enough to get them to the portal, pausing as they approach it. He glances down at Vanitas in his arm, hair shifting with the movement as Murr trails behind.]
[That's his only complaint about being hauled around like this, as it's proving to be quite convenient to have someone so fast cart him around like a sack of flour. Undignified, perhaps, but effective. So with a nod of his head, he points toward the portal, directing them ever onward.]
Once through, head to the right for about half a mile. There should be a cafe we can rest at.
[Maybe he should stop to really consider this. The potential consequences. But. He doesn't. He picks up Murr with his other arm and heads straight at the portal before turning right as Vanitas directs. Thankfully, it doesn't take him too long to make it to the cafe, and he puts them both down once it's in view. For all that he had been rushing, he barely seemed to have broken a sweat in the process. Murr seems used to his running around like this at least, if still annoyed about it. His owner seems not to notice, his attention on the cafe and wondering what he might try first, what they might have.]
Here! We can see what they have, at least sit down with a drink or something.
[He really should, but... Vanitas is very pleased that Noé isn't the sort to pause and consider his options and the consequences thereof. Because it means sweet freedom is mere moments away, until it's not only attainable, but there and they're amid the bustling streets of Paris once more. Vanitas almost goes limp with relief, leaning against Noé for support until they reach the cafe and he's left to stand on his own again. He wobbles ever so slightly before regaining his footing, then carefully sinks down into the nearest outdoor seat with a sigh. They probably should be more discreet and hidden, but, well... Needs must. And he needs food.]
Both, I think. You wanted tarte tatin, yes?
[Because they have that as well; it's a main reason he opted they go this way.]
[If nothing else, this impulsiveness is just one other thing to add to the list for Vanitas to be aware of with the vampire. Still, he all but lights up at the other's mention of his favourite beloved dessert. He glances inside, but can't quite see the menu options from where they are outside. Both of them do kind of stand out, but he isn't necessarily considering that. Murr licks at his paws, giving the vampire a look as his owner sits down with Vanitas, but seems to be all but ready to bounce over to the counter. He's glancing around at everything, so many people passing by, how busy it is. How many buildings there are. It's so different to back home with his Teacher.]
They do indeed. We'll go ahead and order some for you, then.
[Even he might feel like celebrating with something sweet for a rare change. Maybe. Either way, he signals for a waiter once one happens by, placing the order along with tea for two and a light sandwich for himself. He hasn't eaten in a day or so and thus could use something of substance. And thankfully he still has his hidden money pouch on him, which should be enough for them to afford a few meals until he can hook them up with more funds.
Luckily for them, it doesn't take long for their order to arrive, with Vanitas carefully pouring them both drinks before sitting back to watch Noé as his precious tarte tatin is placed before him. Even he has to admit it smells nice if nothing else.]
[He all but beams, excited as Vanitas confirms they do have his particular favourite. At least it is rather quick to arrive, and he sips his drink after thanking Vanitas and the staff before he lights up at the sight of his dessert. He claps his hands together and savors the sight for a second before reaching for his fork and trying some. There's an appreciative hum he gives and a delighted expression as he tries it, enjoying the treat immensely.]
[Despite himself and their risky situation still, Vanitas can't help appreciating Noé's sheer happiness at something so simple. It warms his heart to see someone so delighted, and all because he spent a little money treating him. Well worth the price of admission, as it were. So he digs into his own food carefully, mindful of his gloves and making a mess while still watching his companion savor his treat.]
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Looks promising...
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[He recognizes the art on the walls, the globes. He steps inside, glancing around and wondering how obvious this book of Vanitas's might be among all of the others. But then, Vanitas would probably recognize it, he figures. He checks at the desk, finding some papers that are probably important that he pays no mind to, some writing utensils, and a book that seems to be a novel. Then he flits over to check the bookshelves. Maybe it was there among the others.]
What colour is the book?
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[Excitement has him charging ahead rather recklessly, peering over the desk in a hurry before moving on to the numerous packed bookshelves. His eyes skim the rows and rows upon rows of novels and diaries and ledgers, searching for his one precious tome. Silently he prays that it's here among everything, even if it's on a far up shelf.]
Blue leather with silver bindings and black pages. An astermite gem on the cover and a silver chain attached on its spine...
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[That makes it easier to narrow things down at least. He glances at the spines of the books, ruling out any that aren't blue. He tries not to get too distracted, even if otherwise he might have been curious and wanted to read some of these. It takes him a moment to find a book on the shelf with a blue spine, and he holds it up to show Vanitas. He tilts his head as he glances to the other, his hair shifting as he points to it. At least with how tall he is, it's easy for him to reach the higher shelves.]
Like this? This one here?
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That's it! You found it! You beautiful man--!! I could kiss you!
[Again. Hell, he might do it anyway to get some of the euphoria out of his system.]
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[He blinks at that last, but does shrug and give a small smile as he passes the book to Vanitas. At least the other has it back, since it had seemed important to him. Chances were, if the book were more specific to Vanitas, he doubted if his Teacher could use it anyway. So it's probably fine. He is relieved they have found it, that it wasn't on his Teacher's person. Merely kept safe among his other books for the time being. There was something endearing about seeing Vanitas so happy, though. He'd like to get to do that again, he thinks.]
S-so, now what?
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[He reiterates, only half paying attention as he opens the book to seemingly blank pages to double check that all is well with it. With him concentrating, glowing formulae starts appearing on its pages before he suddenly slams the book shut, satisfied everything is well. Then he whirls to face Noé, grabbing him by the collar and dragging him down to do as he promised: kissing him on the lips. It's a lingering kiss, one that lasts several long moments before he parts and lets go of the vampire to allow him to stand again.]
Now... Paris! You want to go, right?
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[He blinks, violet eyes widening briefly before he returns the kiss, a hand at Vanitas's shoulder as the other pulls him down. Maybe because it is still so new, but it is easy to surprise the vampire with. That, or he is just that oblivious to quite how attracted and attached Vanitas is to him already. Likely some combination, really. Still, he tilts his head and parts his lips obediently, hand brushing through Vanitas's hair before straightening.
He nods vigorously, enthusiastically, and all but beaming and bouncing on the balls of his feet in answer.]
Yes!
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Alright! Let's go! You know where the exit is, right?
[Right??]
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[He calls out after recovering from the initial surprise at the other's haste. Though he supposes Vanitas has good reason to. It isn't like he was apparently supposed to be out of his room. Still, he is pulled onward as Vanitas grabs his hand and hurries off back to the hall. If he had any thoughts initially of at least saying goodbye to Domi or his Teacher, they're gone as he just focuses on keeping his feet moving and trying to remember the directions. Calling out when they need to turn. Leading Vanitas to one of the exits he recalls.]
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[Thankfully it seems that the place is surprisingly devoid of guards and staff, though Vanitas doesn't let this suspicious fact slow him down, instead following Noé's directions to get them towards the outer level of the mansion. Things start looking up once he can see a garden through the windows again, though he hopes it's on the outside rather than an inner courtyard... Eventually they reach what looks like a side entrance, used by the staff and tradesmen. Hefting the huge latch on the door, Vanitas peers out and--
--no one still! Just sweet freedom...! So he swings the door open wide, taking in a breath of fresh air, though he still seems to hesitate at the threshold. Turning slightly to Noé, he squeezes his hand.]
You ready?
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[Get him all those delicious pastries! See all the sights! Though honestly, the sight of.....a guy making balloon animals or shapes would probably impress him. It wouldn't take much, really. Still, he nods, all but beaming in his excitement about going to Paris. The vampire isn't thinking too much about how suspicious it might seem that there's no staff around. Nor is he immediately considering Domi and her likely panic and fury once she finds out he's escaped. And the potential assumptions that might result, given that Vanitas would also be gone. He's too excited about all the delicious food and all the sights he will get to experience, all but pulling Vanitas as he steps outside into the sunshine. No, he isn't considering that the other should probably take the lead, given that he has zero idea where he is going. Yet.]
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[Honestly, he's going to reward Noé with all the treats and entertainment he can fit into a single day, and then every day afterwards. It hasn't yet occurred to him either that they probably shouldn't hang around Paris for long, given there will be people after them, both on the vampire and human sides. But he's counting on it taking them a while to realize where they might make for. So he allows himself to be tugged along, beaming as well as they step out into the light and hurry down the path leading away from the mansion. There's a gate there, but... he has faith Noé can take care of it. Knock it off its hinges if need be.]
Food first or sights, hmm?
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[More like when isn't he? But. Well. Maybe that isn't so surprising given all that had occurred between them earlier. He's not really considering that the others might be worried and looking for the two of them eventually. Just that Vanitas wants to go to Paris and he's always wanted to, so. It just makes sense. To go together? Right?
He initially tries the gate to check if it is unlocked or easily unlocked first. If it isn't, then he'll just pick up Vanitas and leap over it if necessary. As if he is going to let a gate stop him from trying the delicious treats in Paris!]
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[That doesn't surprise him, and quite frankly he's hungry too, so that will be their first order of business once they return to the human world. Though he's hardly expecting what happens when Noé finds the gate locked. Getting scooped up in order for them to leap straight over the barrier leaves him yelping, although he has enough presence of mind to clamp a hand over his mouth to stifle the noise so they don't attract any unwanted attention.
Once on the other side, he gestures toward where he remembers the portal back to Paris being, hoping Noé will simply continue carrying him; if his speed is as good as his agility, then that would be the fastest way to escape this place.]
T-That way, if you please...
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[At least he isn't being too loud. But he isn't making an active effort to keep quiet either. He pauses to offer to put Vanitas down once over the gate if he'd like, belatedly realizing he....probably should have asked before just. Picking him up like that. Oh well. Still, he glances in the direction Vanitas gestures to, nodding and starting off that way, the prospect of trying the delicious pastries in Paris motivating him to quicken his pace in the process. If nothing else, it is easy enough to motivate him to do something, Vanitas is learning.]
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[Well, he's certainly learning a lot about Noé in short order! Both in his physical capabilities and his personality, for what does and doesn't work as a means of encouragement. Certainly a case of a carrot on a stick with this one - or perhaps dessert on a plate is more accurate. Still, it's handy to know that the vampire is easily pleased with the thought of food he enjoys. That much Vanitas can easily provide, multiple times over.
As they practically glide across the path, he can't help marveling at Noé's abilities, both his strength and speed, to say nothing of the grace with which he accomplishes both. Here and there he gives directions as needed, until they've reached the barrier between worlds. Thankfully, with Noé carrying him, there's no need to worry about him getting trapped.]
Almost there. It's just through here, then we'll be in Paris.
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[It hadn't exactly come up. Besides that, he probably just assumes that if Vanitas is aware of vampires and all, he likely knows of their comparatively enhanced strength and speed. He's at least good about following directions when he has them. He's just otherwise useless at finding his way around. So he's quick enough to get them to the portal, pausing as they approach it. He glances down at Vanitas in his arm, hair shifting with the movement as Murr trails behind.]
So we just....walk through? Jump?
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[That's his only complaint about being hauled around like this, as it's proving to be quite convenient to have someone so fast cart him around like a sack of flour. Undignified, perhaps, but effective. So with a nod of his head, he points toward the portal, directing them ever onward.]
Once through, head to the right for about half a mile. There should be a cafe we can rest at.
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[Maybe he should stop to really consider this. The potential consequences. But. He doesn't. He picks up Murr with his other arm and heads straight at the portal before turning right as Vanitas directs. Thankfully, it doesn't take him too long to make it to the cafe, and he puts them both down once it's in view. For all that he had been rushing, he barely seemed to have broken a sweat in the process. Murr seems used to his running around like this at least, if still annoyed about it. His owner seems not to notice, his attention on the cafe and wondering what he might try first, what they might have.]
Here! We can see what they have, at least sit down with a drink or something.
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Both, I think. You wanted tarte tatin, yes?
[Because they have that as well; it's a main reason he opted they go this way.]
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[If nothing else, this impulsiveness is just one other thing to add to the list for Vanitas to be aware of with the vampire. Still, he all but lights up at the other's mention of his favourite beloved dessert. He glances inside, but can't quite see the menu options from where they are outside. Both of them do kind of stand out, but he isn't necessarily considering that. Murr licks at his paws, giving the vampire a look as his owner sits down with Vanitas, but seems to be all but ready to bounce over to the counter. He's glancing around at everything, so many people passing by, how busy it is. How many buildings there are. It's so different to back home with his Teacher.]
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[Even he might feel like celebrating with something sweet for a rare change. Maybe. Either way, he signals for a waiter once one happens by, placing the order along with tea for two and a light sandwich for himself. He hasn't eaten in a day or so and thus could use something of substance. And thankfully he still has his hidden money pouch on him, which should be enough for them to afford a few meals until he can hook them up with more funds.
Luckily for them, it doesn't take long for their order to arrive, with Vanitas carefully pouring them both drinks before sitting back to watch Noé as his precious tarte tatin is placed before him. Even he has to admit it smells nice if nothing else.]
There you go. Dig in.
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[He all but beams, excited as Vanitas confirms they do have his particular favourite. At least it is rather quick to arrive, and he sips his drink after thanking Vanitas and the staff before he lights up at the sight of his dessert. He claps his hands together and savors the sight for a second before reaching for his fork and trying some. There's an appreciative hum he gives and a delighted expression as he tries it, enjoying the treat immensely.]
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You truly do enjoy it, don't you.
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