escordvi | September Catch-All

Entry tags:

September Catch-All

Who: Jarlaxle and (eventually) Everyone
Status: Currently Closed
Where: Stormbringer, and Naughtilust for now.
What: An eventual open log for September! To be updated as I get ideas for more bullshit.
Warnings: Potential NSFW material inside.

Astarion
[Off to sea they'd gone, well on their way back to the corsair base. Jarlaxle, upon making sure that where ever he'd be staying was no where near the citrus boxes, had wasted no time in making himself comfortable. Sure sure, he pulled his weight, when necessary. When he couldn't find any other way of wiggling out of the more boring, more tiresome jobs. But for the most part he was content to find places to simply perch and watch... Or play around in the rigging for funsies, whatever happened to entertain him at the present time. A couple solid days in however and he'd found something far better than making bets with himself as to how far he could jump from one piece of rigging to another; Alcohol.

Specifically, bourbon. Someone's bourbon, don't ask who's because he doesn't know! Must belong to someone important though, considering the scent of it, and he wasn't about to just stow it away and wait for a better time. There was never any better time than the present.

There he was, relaxing below decks with his bottle of bourbon, perched on a box like some great smug cat with the scent of fine alcohol drifting about him. Maybe he ought to take to the deck to see if the stars were out... Or maybe he should go looking for a drinking companion. After all, this was an awful lot of liquor, and he really should make sure the whole bottle was gone before dawn. Somehow. Be a shame to huck it overboard when he was through... Who else was down here?]

Xenk
[It's a shellphone text. It definitely took him a little bit to figure this think the hell out, he's not about to send a bunch of clumsy, poorly written messages out. But he's got it now and he knows just who to bother.]

(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧ Good day, Xenk. I've a proposition for you. Or rather an invitation.

[No he's not explaining the emoji.]

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Then I shall very much look forward to it.

[ He smiles. He really does like learning about these things! Especially with friends. The "with friends" is what really makes this better. Friends like Jarlaxle, and Astarion. ]

You would not. He is a very enjoyable person. I consider him a good friend.

[ He 100% means that, of course. ]

[Oh of course he does, Jarlaxle's certainly picked up on Xenk's Extremely Earnest nature. He's starting to wonder if the paladin was even capable of lying.]

Where exactly did you meet him? I had the pleasure of running into him twice in the same night, clearly our friendship was simply meant to be.

[ He is in fact, not capable of it. It would immediately break his Oath. ]

That is quite fortunate indeed. I encountered him in the outskirts of Eltrut, then later at the Minstrel and Cask. As we are all from Faerun, it is no surprise that we should have much in common.

[ None of that is untrue! For the sake of a secret, Xenk can be pretty good at avoiding specifics. ]

I am glad that he has a friend such as you among the Corsairs.

In a place like this, we may as well have all hailed from the same village. People from worlds far flung, from places we may never see, all gathered here in one place... I should start chronicling it now lest I be called a liar when I return home.

And well glad am I to know he has someone he may depend upon with the Paladins. It certainly pays to have an ally everywhere, better yet when that ally is a man as virtuous as yourself. I assume then it was at the Minstrel and Cask that you offended his sensibilities with your drinking etiquette?

[His tone is teasing, the drow's smile broad and friendly before he took another sip from his glass.]

It is quite a coincidence, to meet here, in a place so impossible, when our paths could very well have never crossed, in Faerun. A blessing, I hope. Though stranger things have been known to happen, in our realm.

[ He says that with a smile. He says that because he's thinking about Astarion's insane story about mind flayers and Shar clerics and Waterdeep Wizards and all the rest. Is it so much stranger than this? ]

Of course. I see no reason for us to be enemies, despite the rivalry between our Armadas. [ He smiles. He doesn't think this about any of the Corsairs, actually. But especially these kind, roguish elves. ] And indeed, it was at the Minstrel and Cask that Astarion first came to criticize my poor drinking etiquette. He had much to say in the matter.

Edited 2023-09-25 02:33 (UTC)

I see no reason for anyone here to be enemies, it's all but a friendly rivalry thus far after all! Heavens forbid, imagine anyone taking any of this seriously? It's so much fun like this, it'd be a shame if something ruined it.

I'd hate to undo the hard work he's put into you with our little experiment, you know. We've the whole night to drink, and you'd be surprised at how quickly inebriation can sneak up on you. He'll blame me, you know, if you go back to him and start draining cups like they're water.

Indeed. Though I do take my placement as a Paladin seriously, I would not wish undue harm on any of my fellow riftfarers.

[ Everything is serious when you're Xenk Yendar, you see. But you can be serious without being a jerk. But he does take another sip of his brandy, savoring the flavor. ]

Understood. I shall be sure to drink slowly. I would not wish to strain your relationship with him.

[ Is he serious or joking? That's the coin flip you must play once you become friends with Xenk. ]

You may take your position as a paladin seriously, but I'm.... No, not surprised, that's not the right term. I'm fascinated that you'd take your placement here as a paladin seriously. I'd have considered it two separate things entirely.

[There we go, much better. If he was to get the man drunk, he'd like to do so gently. Well... as gently as one might go about tormenting their liver.]

I appreciate your understanding and your empathy. He's a marvelous friend to have after all, quite a charming man and an excellent conversationalist. But here I am rambling about my own opinions, what is your take of him?

Do not misunderstand, the two are deeply separated.

[ He makes a gesture with his hand, perhaps the first sign that the alcohol has loosened him up a bit. ]

It is unfortunate that they share a name, but I believe in giving the Paladins an opportunity to prove themselves worthy of the name they claim. Their beliefs are noble, it remains to be seen if their means align with my own Oath. But as ever, I am sworn only to my Oath of Devotion.

[ He says this very seriously, as he would whenever discussing his oath. Which is funny because getting drunk is definitely a gray area. ]

He is a kind man, and a good friend. He offers me a very unique, differing perspective on the world from my own, which in turn I offer to him. I have learned much from him, and hope that we will continue to ever learn from one another as our friendship progresses.

[ His tone lightens as he speaks of Astarion. It's clear he holds him in very high esteem. It's also very funny to hear him say this because he's not even diverting attention or trying to mask the truth, he 100% believes every word he says. ]

[Oh, there we go. The hand gesture was noted, though it wasn't until the other man began to really talk that Jarlaxle settled in a little, devoting all of his attention to Xenk. Now we're getting somewhere.]

Ah, you think highly of him. Not a hard thing to do, he endears himself so well, as do you I should say.

I find the little things the most charming. For instance, have you seen him blush? It's a sweet sight, made all the better for how hard I had to work at it.

Indeed. It would be more difficult to not enjoy his company, I should think.

[ Xenk takes another sip of his brandy, smiling. Oh, he's almost done with it. Well, so much for savoring it.

But what a peculiar question to ask. Of course Xenk has seen him blush! He sees nothing strange about this question, which is perhaps another sign that the two drinks have clouded his mind (along with that natural 1.) ]

Is it so difficult? I fear I make him blush quite often. He is surprisingly easy to fluster.

[ I swear he's not trying to come off as a jerk, he just says the kindest, nicest things and Astarion hates him for it. (At least that's probably what Astarion would say.) ]

Did you? Multiple times no less?

[Okay no, he'd managed that as well, but look at how well that previous statement had loosened up Xenk's tongue. Also the brandy. The brandy helped. He lifted the bottle, gesturing towards Xenk's glass.]

Let me top you up. What ever are you doing to make his face glow so often? I might have to take a few notes, he really does look so precious when he's pink.

It is an endearing trait of his, I find.

[ Xenk holds up his glass for Jarlaxle to refill. This is easy! And the brandy is good. And talking about Astarion certainly puts him in good spirits. ]

I simply speak honestly, and share my honest estimations on his character. It is no different than I would do for any good friend of mine.

[ Ah, but he does only have the one good friend, doesn't he. Their friendship is a little weirder than the rest of Xenk's friendships... ]

That's it? Just pure honesty? What are those estimations you're making, don't tell me you're working him up all because you tell him he's a lovely person.

[Is it really that easy? That's adorable. He fills that glass right back up, then sits back again, still nursing his first glass.]

What exactly are you telling him?

[ Of course that's all he's doing! But does it work because Astarion is easy, or does it work because it's coming from Xenk, and Astarion knows Xenk only speaks things when he 100% believes them? Therein lies the distinction that Xenk doesn't even consider. ]

I have merely shared that I believe he deserves kindness. And that his own attempts at kindness are worthwhile and visible to me.

[ He takes another sip of his brandy. A larger sip than before. ]

He is a kind person, beneath his pain. I would see that person treated well. [ He smiles. ] That is the essence of it.

[ Can't say "that is all" because that is so not all. But Xenk doesn't kiss and tell. Jarlaxle will have to survive this night to get into close friend status with Xenk. ]

[The part about pain... Well, he knew that all too well. So Xenk had heard what he could only assume to be the same story as well. He'd not be prying there, some things were simply better left unsaid, especially in a place like this.]

From what I know of the man... I can see now how that might fluster him so.

[He could see how that would work, and with very little effort too. Though he himself would have waved away and laughed at such an assertion years ago, it was the same sort of thought that drove such a reaction. Hells even now the idea was a hard one to actually swallow.]

How do you find your drink so far? Still enjoyable? I've heard some complain room temperature brandy upsets their stomach, I'd hate to have to cut this experiment of ours short because your lunch decided to come back up for an encore.

[ Beautiful Xenk remains a smiling fool. Drinking, talking about Astarion, spending time with a friend... He is feeling the buzz of 3 drinks and quite happy. ]

Indeed. It seems he has not heard enough honest compliments in his long life, and so I am honored to provide them in ample amounts.

[ Xenk, sweetie, you're so blunt. Anyone would fluster hearing words like that from a guy like Xenk. ]

It settles for now. I am immune to most poisons, so I much doubt it will be a problem.

[ Famous last words... Yet Xenk takes another sip, unafraid of the consequences. He's offered those up to Jarlaxle tonight. ]

Careful, if you drop too many on him at once he may overheat.

[It'd be cute to watch though! He's almost done with his first glass of brandy, so he goes to top himself up next, eying how much he has left of the bottle.]

As long as you're certain! Let me know if anything changes, I feel as if alcohol might be a somewhat different poison than what you're entirely used to. Though that being said, I'd truly hope you're not accustomed to sampling poison often, Xenk.

[Are you? Are you a poison connoisseur?]

[ Xenk takes another sip. That natural 1 is about to start showing. ]

Perhaps. But he is so adorable when he blushes.

[ Yeah, fuck taking it slow, Xenk finishes off his glass of brandy just like that. ]

I have been an enemy to many, who have tried many different methods to kill me. None have worked, as is obvious.

[ He motions towards himself. He does a lot more gestures when he's relaxed. ]

But I have tasted drow poison, if that is your poison of choice. I have not myself stepped foot inside Menzoberranzan, but I am familiar enough with the Underdark that I have come into contact with many of it's denizens.

You're speeding up again, Xenk~.

[He's teasing, but it's true. Not that he's not gonna top him up, that bottle is close to empty now, probably only one drink left in it.]

He is isn't he? It's always such a sight.

[The usual stoic stiffness was wearing off, he could see that clearly. So, three drinks was the limit of his sobriety, but what about drunk? How many drinks until he got to see a drunk paladin? Lets find out.]

That's a shame to hear. On both accounts, your dreadful unpopularity which I personally find is poorly earned, I find you absolutely delightful. And the fact that you had to make a trip into the Underdark and met some of the people that live in it. Considering you sampled sleeping poison in its depths, I imagine that was a less than enjoyable jaunt for you. You have my utmost condolences. I'm to take it then that you ran afoul of some drow?

I apologize.

[ He's still smiling though. Should've ordered food before he started drinking. Too late now! ]

It is. He is a wonderful sight.

[ He sighs through his nose, quiet but wistful. Don't get him started. By the twinkle in his eye, Astarion is a subject he's well-versed in. ]

It is easy to be unpopular when one is principled and unyielding in one's Oath. I was much more rigid in my early days, a fact that did me no favors. But I have indeed run afoul of drow caravans in the Underdark, most recently with a group of Selûnite clerics. This was some years ago, of course, but they wished to reclaim some ruins that were on the fringes of drow territory.

[ His cup newly refreshed, Xenk takes another long sip. His smile fades back to its usual blankness. ]

The encounter ended poorly for all involved. Save for me.

[That much is obvious, and he really couldn't help himself,]

You seem to be exceptionally fond of him, with words like that on your lips. Why, it almost sounds as if you feel some measure of infatuation with the man.

[Not judging of course, how could he? It was easy to see why after all.]

It's difficult to imagine you being even more unyielding than you are already, you know. Though regardless of how principled and unyielding you are, to a drow, colnbluth are colnbluth, no more no less. I doubt their dislike of you had anything to do with your character, and everything to do with the fact that you're not a drow.

[Ah, a poor subject though, he should have guessed as much at the very mention of a drow caravan.]

A lesson that I'm sorry you ended up having to learn. I'm glad, if nothing else, that you at least are here to share their story with me.

[ Oh, no, those words make Xenk blush deep, the blood nearly ringing in his ears. He can't deny things that are true, though! ]

It is easy to become infatuated with someone so kind. Though...

[ He clears his throat even as he immediately follows it up with another long sip of his brandy. No, he can't keep discussing this or he'll out Astarion. He can't exactly say "he's undead and I'm undead so I really connect with him on a deep level."

Jarlaxle's comment about him being more unyielding makes him snort. ]

Trust me, my friend. I was young and foolish, once. I saw many lose their life thanks to that same foolishness... the only reason I still stand is because of my curse, nothing more.

[ A somber topic to be sure, but it is what it is. Xenk discusses it like he would the weather, though with the drink in him, he can't hide the sadness in his eyes as he does. ]

As you say, I must carry their stories with me. And in truth, I believe there is beauty to be found in the Underdark. I spent some time with the svirfneblin, [ His pronunciation? Flawless. His Undercommon? Perfect. ] And helped free a group of them from an Elder Brain. I have met Myconoids who wished only for peace, and even seen the beauty of your cities from afar... it is a dangerous land, but one not without its charms.

With words like that and a blush so bright! You're like a love struck youth when he's mentioned now! Or is that but the alcohol?

[Though? Though nothing, it seemed, Xenk silenced himself with a mouthful of brandy. He'd press, but the conversation was turning to more serious matters. It was left untouched, for now.]

Many would not have the chance to say the same, were they in your circumstances and far more mortal. Bitter though the curse is, it has at least allowed you this small boon: the gift of second chances.

[A very fluent pronunciation of Undercommon, consider him impressed! Not to mention the story that followed it, even if it came with a side of praise for the Underdark.]

Your Undercommon is flawless, you must have spent quite a bit of time around the svirfneblin. I won't claim that the Underdark is without its beauty, of course. But I can say that regardless of what good might be dug out of it, it'll never be enough to make me long to return. I remember the sights and sounds of those caverns so well I could paint you a picture here and now of them without a single mistake, I have no need to refresh my memory.

[ Xenk clears his throat. At least talking about depressing stuff is keeping his blush from getting any worse. ]

Tis hardly a matter of youth, I've simply grown to care for him as a dear friend. [ And they fuck, but like, you know. Not gonna kiss and tell. ] When one is long-lived it is... easier to find common ground, than it is with humans, at times. I'm sure you've experienced the same.

[ There we go, make it about how they're long-lived! Because he's an elf! This is reasonable and not at all breaking his vow to Astarion. But back to easier matters. (Death? The Underdark? That's easier? You're the one who didn't let the subject drop, Xenk! ~~It's the alcohol.~~) ]

Thank you, I had much practice. [ He smiles. He worked hard on it! ] I also speak Thayan, but such a language hardly fit for polite company.

[ Probably a lot of hissing and murmuring, if we're being honest. And no one likes to hear the language every necromancer knows. He takes a long sip of his brandy, nearly done now on his 4th cup. ]

Forgive me if I spoke out of turn, I had not realized you held such opinions on your place of origin. I can well understand wanting to distance oneself from one's birthplace... Perhaps it is fortunate that we find ourselves so far from home. There are very few here who would approach us with preconceived notions.

[ What with Jarlaxle being a drow and Xenk being a Thayan, they do make quite the pair. ]

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