bajamutblast | Inbox/Notes

[Dion glances up as Joshua moves away. He had hardly realized so much time had passed. Now that he's by himself and fully bandaged, he finds himself shifting about, testing the range of motion he has with the newly applied bandages. It's a bit tighter than before, but that's to be expected when someone can actually reach his wounds.

He doesn't expect Joshua to apologize, of course. Not because Joshua wouldn't but that Dion had hoped his discomfort were not so obvious. He isn't sure if it's a failing on his part, or if it's simply Joshua's own emotional intuition. Either way, though, he's been caught. It leaves him with two options. Lie, or admit his discomfort and address it.]

It is not that. [He says like a liar.] The wounds were more sore than I expected. It took far more energy from me than I would have anticipated.

[He shifts, elbows bracing against his knees as he looks to the floor.]

I hope you will forgive me if I ask to rest now, rather than finish our tea.

Perhaps one day.

[Is he talking about sparring? Or giving himself credit? Too bad, he doesn't give Clive time to ask. He follows after the man, making sure he can't turn back and ask any questions. You thought it was awkward already, Clive? Now Dion is hovering behind him. Looking.]

And rest I shall. [He gives a respectful little nod.] Take care, and try not to cause too much trouble about the place in the interim.

[You know, gotta tease to lighten the mood, lest Clive actually worry about him.]

[ Ah.

Joshua breathes in softly, closing his eyes. If Dion truly is exhausted, it would be wise to let him rest. While his healing may have relieved some of the pain, he knows that it won't relieve exhaustion. Provided Dion is telling the truth, at any rate. He fully believes that he is, but a little voice in the back of his mind can't help but wonder.

But, he puts on a smile and turns around nonetheless. ]

It's quite alright. Understandably, healing takes a lot of energy out of your body, and you do need your rest. But I will leave your tea with you, in case you should want it. I'll leave the tin, as well.

[ Just in case he wants more later. It is good - that's why he brought it. As a gift. He hadn't intended to return with it anyway. ]

Do you mind if I bring mine back with me? I will return the mug to you when I see you for your change of bandages.

I should very much like it, yes. I think it shall help me settle down for the time being.

[That, and he also just doesn't want to say no to Joshua any more than he already has. The man has gone above and beyond for Dion in the last few minutes. Upset though he may be by the reminder of Kihel, he still doesn't hold it against the man. He just needs to be alone to lick his wounds.]

Please feel free. I shall manage without it.

[Especially since, at this rate, he's liable to skip tomorrow's clinic appointment. Between Joshua's insistence on healing him and his own upset, he isn't exactly feeling eager about doing it all again.]

I hope you will not mind if I do not see you out properly?

[No leading him to the door way or ensuring he makes it down the hall. Right now, it's everything in Dion's power not to outright lay down on the bed. Maybe being tired wasn't exactly an outright lie.]

[ Now that Tal is aware Dion is LOOMING and not LOOKING-

He turns to say goodbye and pauses, the looming makes him arch an eyebrow as he tilts his head up, but mostly in amusement. And a little bit of deciding it's unfair he's the eldest out of the three and still smaller.

All right, all right, he's going. And he actually laughs to the not cause too much trouble. It's a warm, slightly rough noise. ]

No promises.

[ He's not out to find trouble, but trouble finds them nonetheless. He nods back and turns to leave. ]

[He can be looking too ijs.

Anyway.]

I suppose I should not expect more.

[Said with half of a grin and everything.

As Clive makes his way out of the door, Dion lingers. He doubts there's a single threat to be found in the inn, but he makes sure that the man makes it safely down the hall before remember that he failed to do exactly this for Joshua.

He should ~~call him~~ probably do something to rectify that. Oops.]

[ Joshua nods to that, glad that Dion is at least willing to take the tea. He slips his glove back on, then picks up both mugs, carrying one to Dion so that he can take it. ]

You'll want it to steep a couple minutes more, unless you'd like it weaker.

[ And then, he's left with his own mug, and the tin of salve. The latter of which gets slid back into his pack, of course, and then he returns to cupping the mug in his hands. ]

It's all right. I will take no offense. Please, rest. I will see you tomorrow for another application of salve.

[ And, with that, he turns to move to the door. ]

[Dion's fingers fold around the mug, holding it tight. It does burn at his skin, but he's handled worse. He's used the heat of a flare between the tips of his fingers, after all. If anything, it's a pleasant reminder of something he does not have any longer.]

Right. Tomorrow.

[He is less and less sure that he will be making their appointment after all that has happened, but like hell will he say that straight to Joshua.]

Go well, Phoenix.

[He gives him one last nod before turning his attention away fully.]

[ Dion's courting gift had been something incredibly special. Not only made of a piece of his armor, but designed specifically to aid Joshua in case of an emergency. An impossibly kind gesture, considering that his own magic is difficult for him to use without incurring further damage to his body. And it's a kindness that Joshua intends to repay.

He'd given Dion one of his feathers, of course. Not the magic sort, like Clive keeps on his person, but the physical sort. A feather from his wings, tucked behind Dion's ear, a temporary token until he was able to get something more permanent. Feathers are fragile things, after all. And, not long after their evening spent resting peacefully beneath Pure Vanilla's protection, he gets notice that this more permanent token is ready to be picked up.

Now that he has it, the soft little bundle sits folded in his hands behind his back, its weight both a comfort and a source of nervous energy, though he knows he has no need to be nervous. It isn't as if Dion's mind will change when he receives it, after all, but all the same...

No. Perhaps it is a good sort of nervousness. Anticipation to see the gift so warmly received.

Before he can turn himself away from the door with his own jitters, Joshua lifts a hand, knocking lightly on the wood and then quickly returning it to fold behind his back. ]

[Thanks to his recent spar with Razlo, Dion has been significantly more motivated to put in the work with his rehabilitation. Today's attempt is a number of push-ups and sit-ups. He's honestly lost count of the number, but it's enough for him to have worked up a sweat. At some point, his shirt had been discarded onto his bed, while the feather he's made a point of wearing is currently set upon the bedside table.

Unfortunately for him, and likely for Joshua, he forgets at least one of these facts as he makes for the door. He opens it, spots Joshua and offers a wide smile.]

I was not aware my healer was making house calls now. To what do I owe the pleasure, my dear?

[ --oh. Oh, Founder, he hadn't expected Dion to be shirtless, let alone shirtless and sweating. He's seen plenty of people without shirts on, of course, but it's hardly the same when the object of your affections is standing before you in such a state.

His ears flush, the warmth bleeding into his cheeks as he lifts a hand to his lips. Flames take him-- ]

O-oh. My apologies, Dion-- I did not mean to interrupt you.

[ He isn't acting feverish, so that rules out any immediate concerns, leaving the path wide open for... everything else. ]

If you are busy, I don't mind coming back later.

[ Or staying until Dion is finished. He would not mind that, either, and Founder, but that feels inappropriate. ]

[Joshua's reaction is so sudden and so vivid that Dion finds himself immediately concerned. He starts to reach out, only to catch sight of his bare arm and realize what exactly seems to be the issue.]

Great Greagor I - just a moment, my apologies.

[He has the decency not to slam the door in Joshua's face, but he does quickly leap back and make for the shirt on his bed. He stumbles once along the way, tripping over his feet like a clumsy schoolboy. The shirt, still unbuttoned, is thrown on. His fingers fuss with the clasps as he turns back.]

Please, come in. I can be finished. [He shakes his head.] I hope you will forgive me for such a brazen display. My head was clouded and -

Oh, no. No, no, it's all right.

[ It's a quick forgiveness, Joshua mentally kicking himself for reacting so sharply. If only he'd been able to keep himself from flushing... But it's too late to do anything about it now. So, he steps in, shifting the small bundle in his hands as he closes the door behind him.

Ah... Dion is closing his shirt. Well, it's for the best, probably. He takes a deep breath, exhaling it through his nose. ]

It isn't as though we are all that different. Truly, there is no need to apologize.

[ He will! Move to take a seat! On the couch, of course, because despite sitting on the bed before, it still feels like a privilege he should not assume he has. ]

Were you exercising?

[Dion takes a few deep breaths, before returning to his efforts. He manages to get it mostly buttoned but... ugh, he's getting too distracted. Hopefully Joshua will forgive him for being partially unbuttoned. It's a very Clive sort of look so... maybe?]

Be that as it may, we agreed we would take things slow, and I would not wish to disrupt that with my own clumsiness.

[He fully blames himself for this. He will have to say a few prayers in repentance.

Anyway, he follows Joshua with his eyes, almost discouraged when he alights upon the couch. It's probably for the best. Things almost got dangerous the last time he was there.]

I was. After my spar with the Tiger, I pinpointed a few weaknesses that I wished to focus on. [He holds a hand out to silence any potential protests.] I assure you, however, that I am being very careful. If there is any strain, I will come to you right away.

[He sits on the edge of his bed now and leans forward.]

Now, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company, my darling?

[ Joshua certainly does not mind! In fact, it's a good look on Dion, actually. It does bring Clive to mind, but... well, his own chest is visible in a similar manner when his cloak has been removed. It is not so odd. ]

Believe me, Dion, it is perfectly all right. I am not at risk of stumbling on our agreement because I have seen your bare chest.

[ He smiles, watching as Dion settles himself, unaware of the internal admonishments. If that was a real risk, he would have had the potential to stumble weeks ago when he'd first treated Dion's wounds.

The mention of weaknesses after the spar does make Joshua's lips part to question, so it is good that Dion knows to immediately silence any protests. Instead, Joshua listens, considering the words, and then nodding. ]

You are healing well. It should be fine, all things considered, so long as you do not push yourself too much. I would rather you here and whole than laying injured in bed again.

[ There's a soft fondness in his eyes at that, mingling with the concern. Which is immediately dismissed by Dion's questioning of his visit, which in turn makes him recall the package in his hand. ]

Ah! Yes. My apologies, I was-- [ Distracted. He clears his throat, standing and crossing the short distance between the bed and the couch. ] I have a gift for you.

[ He holds out his hand. Within it is a small bundle made of a handkerchief, and tied with a thin string. ]

[He puffs out his chest the faintest bit. It's a very nice chest, he thinks. It could easily tempt a man. It had before, even.

Wait. What were they talking about. Right. Healing.]

I assure you, I push myself only as necessary to improve, and not a hint more. I would hate to have you cross with me, after all.

[His words are playful, but he does pause to offer Joshua a serious, somber sort of look. Yes, he can be a touch silly about it, but he doesn't want it to come off as him being careless overall.

That look quickly softens as Joshua approaches. The bundle is offered, but Dion doesn't accept it just yet. Instead, he folds Joshua's hand closed once more, then uses his own to maneuver Joshua in a way that allows Dion to press a kiss against his middle knuckle.]

Your presence is gift enough alone, I hope you know that.

[But he won't decline. He waits for Joshua to open his hand once more, then takes the bundle. He is careful with the string and handkerchief, treating them both delicate as glass, before unfolding the bundle for himself.] </small.

[ It is indeed a very nice chest. Joshua is inclined to agree. Joshua is also very much inclined to look at said chest, but he will be good. For now. ]

So long as you are careful. However, as your healer, it may not be a terrible idea for me to be present at times. Just to be certain you are safe.

[ If Dion can sound a little playful, so can he. Joshua knows he won't be careless about it, but still... It wouldn't be a terrible idea for Dion to have someone keeping an eye on him. Just in case.

It isn't an excuse. He truly believes it. Though, it isn't without its own benefits, he supposes.

He had expected Dion to take the small package, so when he instead finds his fingers being folded back around it, Joshua is briefly taken by surprise. And then a bit of a fluster - just a light one this time, barely making the tips of his ears burn - as Dion's lips press gently to his hand. Oh... ]

... you flatter me, Your Highness.

[ As soon as he is able, he does loosen his fingers, opening his hand again so that Dion can take the package. And once he does, once he begins to open it, Joshua will begin to explain.

Because, wrapped within the handkerchief, sits a pair of earrings - one a stud, the other a bit more dangly like Dion's current earrings - made of a very familiar-looking stone. And, if Dion were to look, he might notice that the chain of baubles that drapes from Joshua's belt is missing two stones. ]

You were kind enough to gift me a part of you, so I wanted to gift a part of myself in return. These earrings will protect you from even the most deadly of blows, healing you back from the brink should the worst befall you - but only once, I'm afraid.

I believe that can be arranged. Though I hope you will be able to control yourself, should I choose to partially disrobe.

[He can tease right back, even if it makes the very tips of his own ears warm. They match now, at least.

In more ways than one, it would seem. Dion recognizes the stones immediately, without even having to look to see Joshua's own missing. He cradles them like something far more precious and fragile than they are. To him, that is the case. They are more than stones, but a piece of Joshua, whom he holds so dear.

He hardly knows what to say. Alone, the earrings are precious. Knowing that they've been granted an enchantment of their own, one close to Joshua's heart, only makes it all the more important. Rather than leaping to put them in. Dion finds himself gently closing his fist around both the handkerchief and the earrings. He presses his hand to his heart, eyes sliding shut.

Finding the words is difficult. His heart is pounding so heavily within his chest, emotions welling within his throat enough to make it tighten anew. Joshua had expressed his love verbally before, but here was physical proof of it.]

You - do so much for me, Joshua Rosfield. [He knows his words are stiff, the near emotionless prattle of a diplomat, but it's the only way he can control himself enough to speak, to reassure Joshua that he is more than happy with what he's received.] To wear a part of you would be an inexplicable honor.

[ The stiffness of Dion's words don't bother Joshua in the least. He is well aware from past experience that Dion is not used to such displays of affection, but... well, he did say that he would remind him of how much he was loved, did he not? What are the earrings if not a reminder? He certainly thinks of his own ear cuff with fondness on a daily basis.

Just seeing Dion clutching the earrings to his chest makes his own heart skip a beat, though. He takes it as a touched response, at least, though there's still a nagging feeling in the back of his mind. ]

I do hope that I am not offering these as a replacement for something sentimental.

[ He had thought about it when considering his options. It wouldn't be as easy to make an ear cuff from the stones, and a pendant would not be feasible for combat. A bracelet, perhaps, but somehow his mind had been sold on the earrings, even if Dion's current ones held some value in his heart. ]

I cannot use my healing on you without harming myself... But with these, if the worst comes to pass, I will not have to. Clive has already paid the price for a death here. I do not wish you to suffer the same fate.

Not at all.

[He's quick to answer that question, at least. His hand remains firmly clenched around the earrings, keeping them secure to himself. His own were simply flashy adornments, worn to exemplify the extravagance of Sanbreque and little more. What Joshua offers is a welcome replacement.]

They are... perfect. Would be, even without your enchantment. [Even if he is touched by the offer. It's both an acknowledgement of Dion's own request and an admission of his care — a two-fold gesture that nearly forces tears to the dragoon's eyes.] It is obvious how deeply you care, and moreso knowing that you would keep me safe with this.

[He offers a watery smile to Joshua, before standing.]

Would you be opposed to me putting them in now?

[ Oh. That acknowledgement makes Joshua breathe a sigh of relief, his smile returning from where it had briefly fled. That the earrings Dion wears now are of no sentimental value means that his gift was a wise choice. ]

I am glad, then. And I am happy that you like them.

[ Dion sees the meaning in it, too. He doesn't have to explain any further than he already has. And clearly, his gift is touching, if Dion's expression is anything to judge by. An all around success.

Dion moves to stand, and Joshua takes a step back, giving him the space he needs. ]

By all means. I would love to see how they look on you.

More than like them, truly.

[He makes his way to the bathroom. The piercings he currently wears are carefully taken out and set aside, next to the sink. He examines his ears quickly, making sure there are no issues, before plucking out the first earring. The dangling one is secured in the right, while the stud is secured in the left.

Now settled, he tilts his head, cupping his ear behind the left side in order to angle it forward. He studies it in silence for a long moment, before dropping his arm. He turns back to Joshua as a bright grin forms. He saunters back across the room, stopping in front of his beloved.]

Well, what do you think?

[ More than. Joshua's heart soars at the thought. Dion loves them. His decisions were good ones all around. It reflects on his face in the way that his eyes light up and his smile broadens.

But, while Dion retreats to put them on, Joshua takes a seat. On... the edge of Dion's bed, because that's where he's closest to. He watches the doorway to the bathroom for a moment, but then turns his eyes elsewhere, taking in Dion's room. He's been in it before, but always otherwise occupied by the company. But his eyes land on the feather that sits safely aside, and his smile softens and warms. Dion really has been holding on to it all this time. That such a simple and quickly thought of token could mean so much to him...

But before long, Dion returns, earrings freshly placed. Joshua stands to greet him, beaming, and when prompted for his opinion he lifts one hand, gently touching the dangling earring with gloved fingertips. ]

Incredibly handsome. I was right - the asymmetrical look suits you well.

[Joshua's arm extends, and Dion finds his head tilting to meet it. His sigh is low and pleased, and while his eyes do briefly flutter closed, they're quick to open and find Joshua's once more. The gratitude there is nigh immeasurable, albeit a touch lost in the adoration that almost permanently seems to exist there.]

You know me well. [And since he can't resist, he angles his head just so, kissing Joshua's palm once, then twice for good measure.]

They are nearly as dear to me as you are, Joshua. [He shifts forward, arms moving to wrap gingerly around the other man's waist. He wastes no time in pressing their foreheads together.] I am glad to carry a piece of you wherever I may go.

[ The gentle kisses to his palm make Joshua's heart flutter in his chest. The adoration could easily be overwhelming, but not to him, not now. It feels like a warm blanket on a cold day, keeping him safe and comfortable from the chill. He could drown in it, if he so chooses.

Instead, he floats along the current, letting Dion wrap himself around him, letting their foreheads press together. The tips of their noses brush, and he can feel the dragoon's breath ghosting on his lips, but he doesn't dare ask for permission to kiss him again. Not yet. He doesn't want to fall head-first into those depths. He wants the magic of this closeness to continue for as long as possible, so he can soak in it.

He wraps his arms around Dion's waist in return, blue eyes flicking up to golden brown even at such a close proximity. ]

You truly do flatter me, Dion.

[ He laughs softly, barely a sound and more of an exhale. Only then do his eyes close, but he stays relishing in the warmth of Dion's presence. ]

And I, you. With your armor gracing my ear, you are always with me, always protecting me.

Inbox/Notes

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sometime after pv's sleepover

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