escordvi | [closed] 🔥 i've been reading books of old the legends and the myths

[Joshua does enjoy the occasional sweet treat. He's quite the fan of bread and such things as well. So, when he smells the waft of baking... something... He can't help but to follow his nose.

To the common area in The Roost where he might find Jill. Baking?]

Jill? Hello. I thought I smelt something quite delicious baking. Are you making something?

[Little brother is curious now! Things like freshly baked things were very rare for him to have in the past.]

[As her confidence in her baking grows, Jill moves from the cramped kitchen of her and Clive's quarters into the Roost's proper kitchen. The oven is not only bigger here, but there's more counter space for her to rest things on. On said counter are three pans holding loaves in the midst of cooling. Two more are in the oven, scenting the area enough that Jill grins in amusement that he followed the trail.]

Ah, Joshua. [She waves a hand around to indicate her busyness.] Well, yes. I'm trialing a new recipe for the cafe.

[A few new recipes by the looks of the various loaves out. And then like the proverbial light bulb flickering to life, Jill's face brightens even more.]

Speaking of trialing, would you happen to be hungry enough to test something for me?

[Joshua scans her work and looks a bit surprised and impressed. It looks like she's conducting several experiments on these new recipes. Baking up a storm! And knowing that she's enjoying it from the look on her face? It warms his heart.

He smiles.]

It seems you have been very busy. Of course, I would love to help. Although, should I drop, you'll have to have Torgal drag me away.

[A simple trip to Elah and the paladin archives! In the past, Joshua and his choice corsair companions may or may not have snuck their way into these archives before and have stolen books for themselves to read. Seeing as the paladins seem to gatekeep their own libraries and research, it had been Joshua's only choice to get a hold of that very important information.

But now that he can ask Dion to be his escort into the archives? At least he doesn't have to steal the books now. It makes things much easier.

First, a trip to Elah. He waits for Dion at the docks, with a notebook of notes in his hand.]

[Dion has forgone his weapon, striding up in loose-fitting trousers tucked into practical boots and a simple linen tunic under a simple but finely made deep green vest. He's dressed for a trip that will culminate in his acting the pack chocobo for books, but smiles amicably when he sees Joshua is already waiting.]

Forgive my lateness, Joshua, or mayhap it is you who are early.

[And he takes in Joshua's lithe frame, the way the salt air teases at the strands of his hair, how the sun catches in his eyes, the smudge of ink on his fingertips, his smile turning warm.]

[As this is less of a journey and more of a casual adventure, Joshua is also without a weapon and in less formal clothing. His usual leathers and tunic and simply riding boots. It is nice to see Dion continuing to embrace a more casual look while still looking quite charming and humble.

He looks up and smiles when he hears Dion's approach and he carefully returns his notebook to his bag. He barely notices that there's a smudge of ink on his fingers. He's always writing.]

No need to worry, I haven't been waiting long. Our ferry should be here shortly, as well.

[He nods, though he's in no hurry for the ferry and is simply enjoying the time he spends in Joshua's presence. His voice has become something of a balm these past several weeks and that has not gone without Dion's notice.]

You look well, Joshua. Have you gleaned more insight from your conversations on the shellphone?

[He's finding himself smiling often in Dion's presence as well. It puts and ease in his chest. Although he still has to wonder.

But for now, he still smiles, looking a bit proud of himself.]

Yes. It would seem that more than a few fellow riftfarers have encountered circumstances much like those I described. With their experiences, I may yet shed more light on those matters. I believe I can glean a few more details from their accounts.

[Happy nerd is happy...]

[There's something about the passion with which Joshua pursues his academic interests that is both infectious and alluring and Dion is both honored and pleased to be a part of it.]

Good. I imagine finding answers rather than more questions shall put your mind at rest for a time.

[If Joshua's mind is ever at rest. Sometimes he wonders.]

And is this all you've done recently? Research?

[Joshua's mind is always wondering and wandering, that's the thing...]

For the last several weeks, yes. It's taken longer than that to compile it all together.

[He gives a small amused laugh. There's a playful note to Joshua's tone because don't think Joshua hasn't noticed Dion's interest in his interests.]

Although... that is what I have you for, now. You can help me gather what I need today, since you seem so very interested in my work.

It is noble work that benefits us all, Joshua.

[And while that may be true, that is only a part of why Dion has asked him on this trip today.

Alright, it's even a very small part. He has no doubt Joshua will be able to accomplish all he sets his heart to and more, but he needed an excuse to see him. Does he need an excuse, though?

He does respect Joshua's work and he does feel it's important and a boon to all of Escordvi.

But that isn't why he's here.]

Is that why you agreed? You need lackey for the heavy-lifting?

[For now, Joshua is none the wiser to why Dion might be with him today. He appreciates any time that Dion wishes to spend with him. Craves more of it all the time, yes... But he has been very patient.

Like right now, Joshua feels his cheeks warm that Dion keeps praising something that Joshua has worked so hard on.]

That, in part, yes. [He says with the same playful note in his quiet tone.] Something tells me I'll be needing more than just one or two books. I appreciate you coming along with me.

[There might be like ... fifteen of them. And they're all heavy tomes. And Dion has better arm strength than he does-]

Here comes the ferry. Shall we?

Admittedly, while research is not beyond me, my greater strength lies in my body, which I gladly provide.

[But he will listen eagerly to whatever it is Joshua is working on. He enjoys the way excitement makes Joshua's eye's glitter.

He nods at Joshua's question and they board. Now, in this quiet moment, they have a chance to speak, and Dion has a chance to explain. He leans against the ferry's railing as others board and they await the ferry's departure.]

I admit I may have secondary motives to my invitation.

[It's a quiet, peaceful day. The waters look smooth as well so the ferry across should be just the same. Joshua inhales softly, letting the fresh ocean air fill his lungs. Strange, to think that only a year ago he would have struggled to breathe so well.

He's expecting a quiet ride with an easy conversation with Dion. Perhaps more about Joshua's work, the young wyvern that has imprinted on Dion or maybe more about how Joshua's going to respectfully use Dion as a pack mule-

But Dion's comment has Joshua turning to him, looking curious instead.]

Oh? And is that secondary motive a secret?

[He moves closer to Joshua, so that their conversation might be more private. They do have many things to discuss, but he'll start with the readiest topic, and the most closely on his mind. ]

Three moons hence, you made a confession, of which I am grateful. I gave my word I would think on it, and I have.

[He turns to look at Joshua.]

That is, if you are still interested.

[Dion's comment comes to Joshua as a bit of a surprise. Not entirely, since he knew that Dion was thinking on all that was said. But it still surprises Joshua because he wasn't expecting it to happen here on this boat. Joshua immediately feels a short flutter of uncertainty in his chest.

Joshua had told Dion everything a few months ago. That there was once a quiet spark between them that they fell into so gently and swiftly. Dion had left Joshua with a small ember always there. He had told Dion that his feelings haven't changed. But he also told Dion that he would not force those feelings on Dion should he not want them again. He would be happy to be friends or anything else in between that Dion might want. Because... Dion was never his to claim in the first place.

But he does have to admit to himself that the passing months have been... Both delightful and difficult. The exchanged comments, the laughs, the smiles, the subtle touches... A moment where they might have even kissed had Dion not been drunk...

All of those things are on Joshua's heart.]

I... Yes. Yes, of course. I would hear anything you might wish to say to me, Dion...

[Still, he is a bit uneasy about what might come next.]

[Dion has spent much time thinking on everything Joshua confessed, everything he'd told him of their time spent together before. Ultimately, it'd been impossible not to think on the only other relationship he's ever known. Even before coming here, it had been seven moons since he'd seen Terence, having released him from his service in all ways before joining Clive's forces in route to Ash.

It had been the singularly most difficult decision Dion had ever made for himself, but the time apart had done much to lessen the feelings of betrayal that might come from thinking of letting another into his heart.

And that relationship had taught him much about how to proceed.

With a nod, he responds. ]

I have found of late, there is one who is never far from my thoughts, to be near you, to see you. I needed to be certain it was you I yearned for, rather that the cessation of loneliness, but seeing you on the network today, that passion...I knew.

[He looks over to him then, eyes searching for some response from Joshua.]

[They are speaking closely, and Dion's quieter voice is a comforting sound this close. It has Joshua's expression soften to something a bit shy but he doesn't look away from the other man. His lips twitch in the slightest of a soft smile.

He can't deny that it had felt very good to have Dion so interested in his work. It is an important thing, after all. But to know that interest was also part of Dion's questions for himself... About Joshua...]

Truthfully... I think that our time spent together is more than just soothing loneliness... At least, I hope.

[There is that hopeful note in his tone he barely tries to hide.]

Then you knew...? Did you find the answers to the questions you had been asking yourself?

You are far more than an assuage of loneliness.

[And at that, Dion reaches out to take Joshua's hand, threading his fingers through those delicate digits.]

I do not want to waste any more time.

[A gentle touch that is warm. Joshua glances down at their hands and he feels slightly breathless.]

Dion... I ... I find myself a bit lost for words.

[He's trying very hard not to feel shy and like a yearning maiden right now... This is happening. Joshua's fingers gently lace back and he gives Dion's hand an encouraging squeeze.]

[It's quite alright he's at a loss for words. It isn't a time for them regardless. Dion moves forward, his other hand brushing aside Joshua's hair and then cradling the side of his face before leaning forward, pressing their lips together.

He finds he's wanted to do this for some time.]

[His heart skips a beat the very moment that Dion's hand brushes his hair and cheek. Their lips come together naturally, with Joshua's eyes fluttering closed. Every bit of it is as charming and sweet as he pictured.

Then that is the answer. Dion knew that his feelings had settled, truly and genuinely, on Joshua. The rush of fluttering joy and relief he feels is almost enough to make him feel dizzy.

The moment is quiet, peaceful. With the music of the ocean waves as their background. Joshua squeezes the hand gently again, his other coming to rest on Dion's upper arm.]

Edited 2025-09-28 02:05 (UTC)

[What would this relationship be like, he wonders, this wonderful equality they could share in the sunlight, without having to worry about curtains or closed doors.

After it passes naturally, Dion pulls back, but only enough to meet Joshua's eyes.]

Were you aware how beautifully your eyes shine when you speak at length about some passion of yours?

Edited 2025-09-28 02:08 (UTC)

[Joshua opens his eyes and his smile is still soft. He watches Dion's face and a quiet laugh escapes his lips.

This bright admiration. He can finally feel it without worry or guilt.]

I wasn't aware. Was it truly the shine of my eyes talking about life-threatening ailments and curses that finally won you over?

[He's joking, of course. He knows it's more than that.]

[He leans forward, resting his head against Joshua's forehead. ]

It was your passion for such pursuits, among many others.

closed to jill warrick ❄️

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closed to dion lesage 🐉

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