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bakerstreet2024-06-21 07:07 am
hemlocksock) wrote in bakerstreet2024-06-21 07:07 am
Dark romance
THE DARK ROMANCE MEME
Rules:
1. Post your character.
2. Tag to others using RNG
3. Profit!
01. [Foe yay] Whether you've been mortal enemies for a lifetime or just recently became arch-nemesis, the point is that, for all intents and purposes, you hate each other. Or at least that's how it's supposed to go, though just might be something else there.
02. [Kiss with a fist] What it says on the label. You're in an abusive relationship, mutual or not, and somehow you just can't seem to get away from it. Nothing says "I love you" like a good slap across the cheek... right?
03. [Drugs are bad] Maybe you're in a co-dependent relationship, maybe you're trying to get your partner to quit-- or maybe you're trying to drag them further down the addiction pit! As long as you need each other, all is well.
04. [Stalker with a crush] You are completely obsessed with someone, and all you want is to protect them and have a little bit of attention. Best course of action? Follow them until they love you-- you are their biggest fan, after all!
05. [All your love is revenge] You have the biggest grudge on your ex, and the best way to get back at them is to hook up with a very close friend of theirs! Healthy relationships and happy endings all around-- except not really.
06. [Stockholm Syndrome] You're held captive against your will, but instead of hating your captor, you may find yourself attracted to them. Did you take a Pet the Dog moment too seriously, or are they really not all that bad after all?
07. [Mind Rape] You are inflicting the worst possible kind of non-physical pain on your beloved, with memories and visions or whatever else. You want them to be rendered completely powerless and numb, just like a broken puppet. And then they'll be all yours.
08. [Love makes you evil] You could be unleashing a psychotic criminal back into society or breaking the laws of the universe to bring back a deceased one-- nothing really matters. Being with your One True Love comes first, so screw the world!
09. [Love you to death] Yes, you're willing to kill anyone that gets in the way of your relationship, including the very object of your affections. Because if your beloved's heart can't be yours, then you will take it by force-- even if it means literally.
10. [Death by love] the other side of the spectrum; you actually want to die, but only by the hands of your One True Love-- who may or may not be willing to do it. What better way to forge an eternal bond between the two of you, right?
11. [Mad love] Unrequited love sucks, but you're still willing to do absolutely anything for your love interest, no matter how often (and sometimes violently) turn you down! But will they use these powers for the good of all or...?
12. [Made a slave] Put on display and bought in a market, you now have a master to serve and cater to every need. But who knows, they might treat you with some semblance of respect, or show some-- what was it called again-- compassion! If you're lucky.
NOT SAFE FOR WORK:
13. [Bathe her and bring her to me] You are trapped and about to face off with the perpetrator-- but first, a bath would do you good! This might as well further serve their sordid purposes, perhaps by watching you clean up or helping you out themselves...
14. [Sadistic choice] Here's the deal: either relinquish your virtues or watch a fate worse than death befall the person who is dearest to you. Basically, screw or get screwed-- it sounds like a perfectly reasonable offer, doesn't it?
15. [Out with a bang] Maybe you do it for the fun of it, or maybe you just want to lower their defenses-- point is, the minute you're finished, so is the life of your sex buddy. But you're not going to tell them that, of course-- they wouldn't really enjoy the ride.
morticia addams | the addams family (90s)
MJ | MCU | OTA
Claire Bennet ∞ Heroes ∞ OTA
Hey there, welcome back! :)
Heyyy thanks!
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It was bound to happen sooner or later with how overconfident Adam had gotten with his antics. Though the plan was perfectly executed, all it took were a few chess pieces out of place to checkmate the king. Vampires slacking off where they weren't supposed to be had caught sight of the immortal strutting victoriously with his cohorts instead of scurrying back to safety. One moment celebrating, the next a blur.
It seemed they had learned bullets were useless against him long-range and had switched to tranquilizers. His regeneration easily took care of the new tactic, of course, but not before it was too late. With their speed, they were on him in an instant. Knowing that struggling was useless, Adam played along as if the tranq was still affecting him, all the while listening to their plan... The queen would decide his fate. Interesting.
Long story short, because of his cunning nature and good looks, the queen decided it would be a waste to simply kill him. Instead, he would serve her daughter as a protector, blood bag, and whatever else she wished to use him as. All in all, it wasn't the worst fate. Not that Adam would give up so easily, no. Perhaps it would give him an advantage, seeing what went on behind enemy lines, inside the palace, no less. It was quite the opportunity the more he thought about it.
And so, he was freshened up—hosed down like an animal, to be precise—and dressed up in fancy silk pajamas. Another dose of tranquilizer was given to ensure he was nice and compliant for his new owner. Again, he played the part, pretending to be groggy as he waited for his mistress. Light chains ensured he wouldn't wander in the meantime, but he couldn't help noticing the nearby collar. It wasn't an ordinary one, though. Adam was more than certain it was the kind he'd heard about through rumors. It would keep him from being able to harm the princess. Not that he planned on it, but it was for their peace of mind. When the door opened, he would glance over, his blue gaze curious and deceptively soft.
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As she rose within the conclave, she was eager to take on more responsibility, determined to earn her place. She had made upgrades to their defenses, and helped to keep their order shrouded in secrecy. Funny how before she was turned, she'd only wanted to live openly as herself.
The cheerleader wanted to live in sunshine and peace, but the vampire princess was content in the shadows, navigating by night and striking when least expected. It was that element of surprise that led to Monroe's capture. The immortal. She had been like him, once. Now, she was more.
She wasn't going to celebrate her birthday until next month, but she wouldn't say no to the early gift. The approval was plain on her face as she stepped into her quarters, eyeing the man. He'd been chained and dressed for her; she smiled as she noticed.
"Lucky me," Claire purred, sauntering closer. Her green eyes sparkled in the soft lights, drinking in the sight of him. "You're even more handsome in person than the picture I saw."
She stood close and inhaled deeply. The scent was nearly intoxicating, and she swayed giddily. "We've been looking for you a long time."
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Could she sense his blood was different or was she simply hungry? Adam's eyes narrowed at her words and he couldn't help wondering just how much she already knew about him. ❝ Is that so? Well, I certainly can't sign any autographs like this, love. ❞ The chains rattled a little for emphasis. All things considered, it was his only real complaint at the moment.
Slow and deliberate, his gaze drifted over her face, pausing a moment on her lips. ❝ Tell you what — you unchain me, and you can drink from me peacefully. I won't struggle. You have my word. ❞ The immortal knew when to behave. The fact she could rip him to shreds might have had something to do with that decision.
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His request was bold, as was his suggestion. Claire hadn't expected it to be that easy. She thought she might get to play with her food a little more, rather than him offering himself up on a silver platter. He almost took the fun out of it, but as she stepped closer and felt the heat radiating off him, mingled with his scent, she was tempted.
A hand lifted, cold fingertips tracing over Adam's cheek before she gently cupped his face. She could feel the warm blood pulsing through him as her hand slid down to curl around his neck, surprisingly tender.
"Smart man. You know I could catch you if you tried to run, don't you?" Her voice was thick with hunger and desire, but there was still a teasing lilt to her words. "Might've been fun to see you try and resist me, though. I don't like to use my powers of compulsion. That's cheating."
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At her touch, Adam held his breath, unsure exactly what to expect next. The coolness of her hand served to remind him just how much danger he was actually in right now despite how sweet and innocent she appeared. When that coolness moved down around his neck, a rush of exhilaration ran through his body, touching his core. She could end his life with one simple movement of her hand if she desired. Normally, one might pause to ponder why this fact was exciting instead of terrifying, but the immortal had already crossed that kinky bridge a long time ago.
Slowly, he nodded at her question. A vampire's speed was unmatched. Not to mention, there were probably guards stationed right outside the doorway. And he was certainly glad to hear she wasn't going to use compulsion on him. That would have been no fun whatsoever. ❝ So, you enjoy playing with your food, hm? I suppose I could try to resist you, if that's what you wish. I'm yours to command, after all. Speaking of, may I ask what my duties will entail? ❞ Adam could guess, but he'd rather hear it from her, as how she told him was just as important as what she told.
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So long as they stayed fed, that is. Though Claire could go longer without feeding than most.
She could feel his blood run faster, his pulse quicken, and it was all she could do to keep her control. He was enjoying this on some level, she thought. Her tongue slid over her teeth before she licked her lips, her gaze looking hungrier than ever.
"I haven't planned that far ahead, to be honest," Claire admitted. The bloodlust was making her feel a little hazy. "Oh, I had some thoughts, but that's all gone out the window now that you're right here, tied up for me all pretty."
Quite abruptly, she drew back, hand running smooth down his chest. She could still smell him, of course, but even a small distance was enough to clear her head some.
"I can tell you this much. I don't want to kill you, even if I could. If you let me drink from you and keep my bed warm, you'll be treated well." When she meets his eyes again, there's the faintest hint of vulnerability despite her attempts to put on an air of haughtiness. "Can you trust me?"
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The fact she hadn't planned ahead was a good sign. A curious brow raised at the thoughts that had been discarded, but he wasn't going to ask, seeing as it sounded as though it worked out in his favor after all. When the coolness left his throat, a faux sigh of relief left him as his shoulders relaxed.
...even if I could.
Aha, there it was. She knew. The queen probably did as well. And, hmm... of course they wouldn't tell their foot soldiers or anyone else; imagine how valuable a regenerator was to vampires. He would have been the most sought after evolved human in existence right now. Interesting.
All things considered, the deal was more than fair — a warm bed, a beautiful woman in said bed, lavish living quarters, and probably decent food and drink, all while gathering precious intel. Adam's gaze held hers for a long moment for dramatic effect. ❝ Yes, I think I can... ❞ True, there was no other choice, but from what little he'd seen of her, she didn't seem so bad. ❝ But, you must promise I will not be hosed down again. Only proper baths and showers from now on. ❞
A glance was given to the nearby collar that held the power to keep him from hurting her. It would get in the way of feeding, so perhaps that was why she hadn't put it on him. ❝ Now, I suppose it's my turn to ask, can you trust me? ❞
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"Agreed, no more hosing you off. I'd like to know who took it upon themselves to do that, as well. They'll be dealt with."
She kept the small distance between them, noting the way he looked aside. No doubt he was considering the collar that had been left for him. It was a rare and valuable thing, with the power to leave humans - evolved or otherwise - unable to do much in the way of defending themselves.
Much like her powers of compulsion, Claire didn't enjoy using it. Sure, she didn't mind if her prey wasn't fully willing, but rendering them completely helpless wasn't as fun. Or perhaps, though she wasn't about to admit it, there was still a small bit of her humanity left. Some sense of the morality she'd been brought up with. Maybe.
The wasn't much of a surprise, not when he'd been eyeing up that collar. Perhaps he wanted to know if she planned to use it on him. There were other places to drink from, of course, but the neck was certainly her favorite. She enjoyed the intimacy, the proximity to her prey's heart and the warmth of their body only served to add to the experience of feeding.
"I want to trust you," she conceded, more earnest than she'd intended. Her position left her lonely despite the constant companions attempting to attach themselves to her.
"A proposal, then. You let me sample you now, and if you behave, I will remove those cuffs from your wrists. If the rest of the evening goes to my liking, I'll have the collar taken away in the morning."
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Adam's expression softened in approval as more sincerity followed, and she wasn't reaching for the collar yet. Technically, she was only his enemy by what she was, not who she was, so his ire wasn't aimed toward her specifically; so yes, she could trust him, at least for now.
His head tilted curiously at her proposal before he slowly nodded in agreement. ❝ Alright. You have yourself a deal, love. ❞ Gently, Adam pulled on the chains, testing their give, seeing how far he could move his hands. It was farther than he'd first thought, allowing him to unbutton his silk pajama shirt.
As it fell to the floor, his attention returned to Claire, a playful grin dancing on his lips. ❝ Just in case you're a messy eater, of course. ❞ No sense in bloodying good silk. After swallowing his nerves, he reached out as far as the chains would allow and beckoned her to him. Adam had survived so many different types of deaths in his time that this should be nothing. Even if she accidentally drank too much, he would bounce back without trouble. But still, it was a new experience.
Once she got close, Adam would tilt his head, offering his neck to her, and his hands would rest on her hips. ❝ According to the rumors, your saliva has the power to bring pleasure to your victims. If true, I'm curious to see which drug it's comparable to. ❞ For science, of course. ❝ I also wonder if I taste better than a normal human... ❞ That certainly was a new sentence for him.
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She watched attentively as he unbuttoned his shirt, and nodded her approval once his chest was bared to her. Oh, yes. He would do nicely. As much as she tried not to make a mess when feeding, sometimes it was out of her control.
"You smell better than a normal human, I can confirm," she said as she was pressed in closer, a cold hand gripping Adam's upper arm. There was no force behind it, it was more out of the desire to touch him than anything else. The chains would suffice to keep him from struggling too much; even as he promised not to resist her as she fed, sometimes the body reacted involuntarily.
"As for how I might affect you, I've been told by some that it's a sense of delirium, by others that it's orgasmic. I suppose everyone reacts to it differently."
That was enough talking for now, though. It was far past time for them to answer those questions. For science, of course. And so Claire leaned up and brushed her lips against his neck, then opened her mouth, fangs extending with a soft click. The warmth of his skin against her lips was nearly as intoxicating as his scent. She picked her mark and bit down, drinking deeply.
A deep sound of pleasure and satisfaction rumbled in her chest, eyes closing. But only briefly, before she forced them open. No, she had to be vigilant. He could survive if she went too far, she knew, but she didn't want to do that to him. Not this first time.
Instead, she willed herself to exercise caution, silently counting backward in her head. Ten, nine, eight, seven, six...
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rudbeckia de borgia • htwmho ( ota )
in summary: the sweet, cheerful, slightly dim-witted princess of the Borgia family – actually a manipulative liar who is always putting on a performance to please others, terrified that they'll harm her. Ruby has spent her whole life being controlled, abused, sold off to men, and shunned as an outsider; as a result she's a bitter but helpless victim, deeply distrustful of people and resigned to her endless cycle of suffering. always happy to AU into other canons and generic scenarios.
open to 4, 6, 8, 12, and 13! 13 is a particular favourite. )
Ash Lynx | Banana Fish | OTA
OTA for gen, 16+ for shipping to be mutual.
Not the antagonist party but open to pretty much all options.)
Gu Sui | The Best Actor is a Fox Spirit | OTA
OTA for gen, M/M 21+ for mutual shipping. Available in human or fox form.
Not the antagonist party but open to pretty much all options.)
Mehemis/Mimi | The King and Me | OTA
Not the antagonist party but open to pretty much all options.)
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Absolutely! I know Mithrin would be coming as a formal ambassador, right? )
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re: 8 - mithrun could have started abusing his position as ambassador maybe? his country's pretty wealthy/strong and he knows mimi cares for his people so mithrun would bet mimi wouldn't cause a political upset by kicking him out. subtly starts placing political strain wrt his country's demands and what they (and by virtue, mithrun) are expected/owed, until it gradually becomes a financial/capital strain. he'll keep escalating into scorched earth until confronted, since festering is how he goes, )
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So, Mithrun's attitude + Mimi's reservations work so well. I'd say we could make Ebis (Mimi's city) be in actual trouble with Mithrun's group being able to offer significant help to keep Mimi from calling him out right away, but I think it works like *chefs kiss* )
this is so long oop pls feel free to write a tiny tag in turn, my future tags will be small i swear,
This task is one such instance. To Mithrun, it is a banishment: his parents, surely sick of him and the masquerade required to hide his impure blood, volunteered him to the Court as ambassador some dirt-poor country of some short-lived species, worth nothing more than a servile existence. Did they hope to humiliate him? Did they hope he would rot to death? He was not allowed audience to ask. But such was his reality. And so he grit his teeth, put on his sweetest smile, and thanked the Queen, kindly, for the privilege.
He was not happy upon arriving to Ebis. (He made certain he looked honored to be there, though.) He felt as if he were mediating a colony of ants. Sturdy; strong - short-lived and fragile. Pathetic things. His professional opinion? He does not see reason to relay with these people, nor to aid them. He understands the tentative motive of the Court is to repair it, now that it is in crisis, and then take the country on as a satellite state, but - why bother? It would be more work than it's worth to maintain this place. Let them have their mud and their misery. Let him return home, and have another chance.
Nevertheless.
He did not expect to think much of the country's ruler, but fate would have it that they would meet before it was time to present the small crew of elven ambassadors to the royal court. Mithrun had not expected Mehemis would not be difficult to talk to. Perhaps because Mithrun had no reason to impress him, and perhaps because Mehemis was, at rest, fairly personable, fairly patient - no one Mithrun had to fear. It was easy to come to talk to him again. They both kept to their respective stations, but, when there was space and opportunity in private, a habit formed to speak.
And he came to like that, though he would not admit it to himself. He had come to like Mehemis, and he told himself it did not matter that Mehemis did not seem to - care so much, in the ways Mithrun's heart had hoped. So even though Mehemis had been kind to him, and even though Mithrun began to see himself as an existence that must be unique to Mehemis (he's a lovely elf, intelligent and kind, and all sorts of - things, surely lots of great qualities, manufactured to be likeable) - Mithrun reminded himself not to expect much from a short-lived race. And in this way, Mithrun was able to keep his feelings in check.
It all seems like very little, but to Mithrun it was a lot. Mithrun has always been alone - guard up, seeking to hurt first before he was hurt. It's hard to say whether he trusts Mehemis, mind; there was some part of him that said that Mehemis does not know how ugly he is, and he would not like it when he knows - or that Mehemis is simply tolerant of him, because Mithrun is one of the few who know him as someone other than a tyrant.
And some third part of him said that - he should remain guarded, precisely because Mehemis postures to invite hate. Everything of Mithrun is shaped as it is to beg for love. He can't understand how Mehemis can tolerate living detested. Yes, there are reasons for it - yes, Mehemis is in a particular political situation that requires it - but Mithrun doesn't understand. And how can he entrust his heart with someone whose heart he does not understand?
If he does not understand them, they can hurt him - and so it should not be a surprise when Mehemis does.
The final tipping point had nothing to do with Mehemis at all. Mithrun received an unwanted letter from overseas from his brother - that he and a woman were now engaged. His brother did not know it, but this woman was someone Mithrun had loved. Loved, even now. And then, with the open wound that was his heart, his thoughts had turned - to Mehemis, and his apparent indifference.
Mithrun did not leave his room for a full day, following the letter. He cited mild illness. In the week after, subtle, wet red lingered in his eyes. But he acted all the same.
It had only taken one small gesture after all that: Mithrun, strangely forward - inviting Mehemis to some private outing, somewhere else. Nothing intimate; nothing romantic. Nothing even special. And Mithrun provided no context.
But Mehemis had not accepted his invitation. And that was it. He may as well have announced himself married off - might as well have denounced Mithrun, forever. Mithrun still had not accepted in his heart he felt a love for Mehemis, too, and yet - for this perceived rejection, Mithrun wished him miserable. He understood Mehemis loved his country, and wished it a smouldering lot.
The ambassadors, led by Mithrun, had been good on ferrying aid to the country. Regardless of secret intentions, first came relief in times of crisis - as the infrastructure was rebuilt, they made that stability dependent on the elven homeland. Mithrun, despite his reluctance, was quite good at his job - intelligent and metered in his assessments, and decisive in action. He seemed terribly passionate and empathetic, but did not let emotion mar his reason.
The shift after the alleged rejection was subtle. Fewer, cooler talks with Mehemis. Smaller affordances of aid. Shifts in political direction. Reiteration of decrees by the eleven Court - phrased ever so slightly differently and less generously now than they were before, and the elves insisted this is how things had always been.
Little by little, the well began to dry. Little by little, it fell upon Mehemis's court to support them and their patronage - repayments expected early, restitution needed now; more affordances for the elves; greater luxuries; free access to its few resources - promises of aid coming soon, surely - later, but soon! But, until then, if the royal court would not allow the elves to leech them dry, a greater many people would surely die - more than would have before the elves came at all.
And like a brood parasite, it became terribly clear that the elves meant to let the country starve.
Mithrun, throughout, appeared the same. Saccharine, and smiling. Not a ripple on the surface.
He had wondered if Mehemis would confront him, but he also tells himself he does not care. Let him and his country die, for all he cares (and - in particular - let Mehemis die alone, unpartnered and faulted for the country's present state of desperation). Let Mehemis ignore him, as he always did (reality warped in Mithrun's bitter mind); let them both be cursed to misery.
He is in part surprised, in part bitter, in part pleased, to hear the heft of a familiar footstep in the gardens not far behind him on this evening. The golden hues of day gently dying, and the deep violet of the night descends - dying Mithrun's silver hair and eyes a brilliant gradient of color as he turns back to look at his guest. )
Ah— Your majesty. ( Not "Mimi," these days. He smiles warmly, his hands gently clasping before him in feigned humility. ) It's wonderful to see you, as always. I hope this evening finds you terribly well?
( Phrased as a question, as if to invite the good news of Mehemis's day. He hopes it's been awful. )
it's beautiful
The king didn't even realize there was anything to reject.
One slight became two became three. Mimi's advisors weren't idiots, and late-night talks decided they had to handle the situation with delicacy. Ebis needed help. Without their support, they'd surely fall and so, Mimi tried to navigate the situation, but every decision strained the city even further.
What happened? It seemed they'd gotten along and yet, Mimi was left feeling fooled. The elf played nice, and he responded because of their initial interaction.
Tonight, he'd decided there was nothing left to preserve. ]
If your plan was to watch the city fall, why bother with pretending?
[ There's no reason to hide his real feelings now and yet, there's no anger. The king is tired, and the feeling of betrayal leaves the anger a little further away than his other emotions. ]
❤︎
At this late stage, there is less reason to hide. He is the cleaver - why not let Mehemis see the blood on his blade? )
I don't know what you mean.
( Falsely. But he pairs it with truth - at least, in his perspective: )
After all, you are this place's ruler. What comes of it has only come because of the choices you made... yes?
( And this was all avoidable - if only Mimi had—
No; he doesn't want to continue this thought. How could be understand the humiliation - feeling rejected by someone he's supposed to view as lesser, when rejection is the privilege of betters? What else is he supposed to think if not that there is some cosmic force trying to murmur to him - that for as low as his brother his, as nothing as these tallmen are, Mithrun is even lower than that?
It twists his heart, and knots his stomach. It is all he can do to maintain an even expression, waiting - hoping, maybe, Mehemis will snap before he does, and allow Mithrun some little dignity, that he believes he can't take for himself. )
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[ Mimi won't run away from his own responsibility. It doesn't decrease the elf's betrayal, but it's ultimately the king's responsibility to make decisions that will lead the city to prosperity. He failed. ]
I trusted the wrong person. I thought because you were kind even when we had nothing to gain that you could be trusted when your envoy came to Ebis.
[ And now, Mimi may die in his efforts to fix his mistakes. He won't lay out such plans to the very person who fooled him, but surely they know he isn't one to simply roll over and accept the downfall of his people.
Was any of it real? The easy conversations? The smiles? The nights when they were able to find time to talk about things outside of their responsibilities?
No. Likely not. Mithrun is simply a master at manipulation.
That hurts, too. ]
But I don't understand why. What does Ebis' downfall gain you? You made it clear that we're far below the elves.
[ A conversation Mimi took no insult in having. It seems to be true. ]
Why go through the trouble of gaining my trust to destroy a city that's not a threat to you?
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Because he has never been kind. He has postured at it. And he recognizes that perhaps, even if - Mehemis had come to regard him closely, wouldn't he only be fond of Mithrun's false reflection? This Mithrun - the Mithrun that scatters kindling across his city like flowers - is what he is, and there is no affection in Mehemis's regard now. )
... Do you really think this all political?
( About power, about prejudice. Mehemis is correct: Mithrun has nothing to gain from Mehemis's people in a coffin, nor do the elves. Ebis would likely not exist in a hundred years, nor would its kind; even if they did, history runs short in the memories of these brief-lived creatures. Why destroy what time can erode for you?
So Mehemis is close. He's so, so close. Close enough to comprehend there is a gap in his understanding, but not - able to bridge that gap. Should Mithrun be generous? Should he take him by the hand, kindly, and guide him? That is how he was raised to view tallmen - as incapable of handling such faculties of thought on their own. But Mehemis...
Well, if he thought he was a fool, Mithrun wouldn't have spoken to him so often, and come to feel at ease with him. If Mehemis were a fool, he would not resign himself to his responsibility in this disaster, the way he does now - would not be trying to pry meaning from Mithrun so calmly. )
... Certainly, if all this lays on your shoulders, and you accuse me of being its primary instigator... this must be between you and me. The logic only follows.
( His hands swing behind his back, clasping gently there. )
My position on policy has always been affected by you, your majesty. I have simply been given cause to reconsider, is all.
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His eyes widen at the implication, but as they fade back into their familiar shape, he finally frowns. Does Mimi have his faults? Certainly. He isn't someone overly gentle, but...
He really can't recall slighting Mithrun. Their conversations were always genuinely pleasant and even their disagreements were never serious. Mimi would've said they'd formed the kind of space that allowed for safe disagreements. Yet, even if he did make a mistake, isn't it too childish to destroy a city instead of simply talking it out? ]
You're an adult.
[ That's hardly a palacating start. ]
You're a representative of your country. If I made a mistake, talk to me. Or should I think all elves ruin thousands of lives the moment they don't get their way?
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But he knows that is not what Mehemis means. )
... If I may...
( He begins, politely. )
Have you never opened a closet, or perhaps entered a less-used corner of a room, and seen a spiderweb there?
( Without judgment, he continues: )
Have your people never seen weevils in your grains, or rodents in the streets? Have you not seen something that displeases you, and then— done away with all of that? Never mind the time the spider spent on its web, or the few days insects have to find food to survive, or that the rodents made their home there first.
( Is it not the habit of those who live longer to do as they like without consideration for those who live lesser? That worth is intrinsically assigned to length of life - that simply irritation or an eyesore is reason enough to kill the creature that bit you, to hunt it down for sport. )
How could I have talked to you, besides, when you made your position clear?
( He turns partway on his heel - not turning away from him entirely, but allowing him space to look ahead, somewhere else. Despite his even tone, his stomach churns with upset. )
I'm not in the habit of begging.
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My people are not insects! We didn't come into your home and become pests!
[ That would be easier to understand than this accusation. How can Mimi's position be clear to Mithrun and yet so unclear to Mimi himself? His position on what? It feels as if the elf is speaking in riddles that the king is unable to understand. ]
What have I failed to provide you?! Who's asking you to beg when you haven't even asked?!
[ Mithrun expects Mimi to remember a time he was unable to break away from work to allow the two an evening and yet, how could he remember something that had no meaning to him? Ruling a land was no easy feat. Surely Mithrun is aware of the time costs associated with the role. ]
What's the point of such long lives you can't even learn to speak clearly?
[ It's harshed, but his fury is only growing. ]
hobbles back from covid (am ok now!!)
But the satisfaction does not root the way it often does, and this sensation frustrates. The faint growing smile on his lips seems to waver, for a moment the cultivated expression of a tragic heroine flickering - revealing a look of hesitation of the split-heart villain beneath.
His stomach a heavy knot, he manages some form of composure. Despite the ache, he is glad to know he's hurt Mehemis so badly - that he chose rightly in his vengeful course. Because of the ache, it stings to see Mimi hurt - when all Mithrun wanted was something much simpler. Something he couldn't say.
The longer you live, the longer you have to carry that rejection with you. Of course he fears asking, anxious of what he might hear. )
... Before you came into your resentment, ( it's okay! he understands you must hate him! it's fine! he'll say it first so he doesn't have to hear it!!! ) what was I to you?
( Mehemis deserves better than this; better than his people (those insects, yes) who could not love him; better than Mithrun, who does. (Even now. He's never been good at letting go.)
He deserves better than to be asked this - so late into it all - when he surely wants a worthwhile answer, something that explains this destruction to this thing he loves. But Mithrun knows he always disappoints when it really counts. )
Glad you're okay! Sorry, I just finished a high stress project at work
He thought the little elf was different. Mimi was played for the fool, but he enjoyed the stolen moments that allowed the two more carefree discussions. Daylight hours see Mimi toiling but the occasional night ...
Those nights, he was being manipulated. It's infuriating because he'd worked so hard to break free of the church's manipulation.
Despite the anger that radiates throughout his body, there's also a fatigue in those broad shoulders. All of the extra work was for naught. ]
How can I answer that when you've been lying the whole time?
[ He can't trust interactions that were so different than the actions that came after. ]
You don't need me to say your manipulation work. You already know it did.
[ Mimi trusted him.]
Ebiz isn't so big that you couldn't have crushed us if you wanted, but you wanted to play with my people first! Is that what you learn to do with your long lives?!
[ So often he's kept his anger in check and tried to play the role of diplomat, but he won't die begging. ]
My people might die sooner, but if all of your people are the same, they have more meaning in those years than all of yours.
[ He's striking out, looking to insult. Mimi's sure that Mithrin can't be persuaded. ]
But why did your games start from the beginning? Did you hate me on sight? If that's the reason, stop being a coward and fight me already.
hope work's been going well!!
But still, it frustrates him.
He hears Mimi's anger, but doesn't give it weight. He considers this, too, is something that has irritated him about Mimi - about Mehemis. He has always spoken in favor of, and devoted his time to, his stupid, ungrateful people. Greedily, Mithrun wanted this devotion turned toward himself. Foolishly, Mithrun knows he would not have half the respect he has for Mehemis if he actually had.
It was a hopeless situation that the king could not win, tangled up in Mithrun's ugly heart. )
... Now you want to know how I feel?
( He says this, but he knows he was the one too fearful to say it when things between them were still good. He turns toward Mehemis fully, finally. He has worn a small spectrum of faces this evening, identical smiles differently hued only by their mirth, but, without realizing it, Mithrun takes on an attitude that is remarkably genuine.
Unpleasant and unhappy. That's the sort of person he is. And in the time he's known Mehemis, Mithrun's pervasive dissatisfaction with life has perhaps shown, very slightly - and then quickly hidden away, like that click of his tongue.
He doesn't look at Mehemis. His gaze casts to the side. )
You would be happier not knowing. ( Mithrun would be happier not having these feelings, surely. ) But let's say I said I've never hated you. Would you scoff, or would you simply disbelieve me? Or perhaps you would even say the feelings of your people are more authentic to anything I could feel.
it has, thank you! i hope you've also been well
[ Just as he wondered what his goal was before. Mimi tries to analyze the situation, but none of them can understand why such a powerful group of people would care about their small country. They didn't even have precious resources unique to their region. It all seemed to be done for some sadistic pleasure. ]
Your feelings might be authentic, but the side you showed to me has been fake from the start! Have you ever said an honest word to me?!
[ He can hear his advisors saying to get things under control, that anger isn't the answer, but isn't he as human as the others? Despite his reputation, Mimi's people depended on him for protection, and now, they're being bled dry.
Breathe. His eyes closed, but when they reopen, Mimi's focus is locked onto Mithrun. ]
But if you could manage to get an honest word past your lips, it doesn't have to end this way. What has been your goal?
sick and then burnt out, but back...! no worries if this is too old to pick up!
Honestly, a kinder response than he deserves or expected. If it were Mithrun, if their feelings were reversed, if Mehemis had gone "Ah, but if I had ruined your life because I felt something for you...?" - oh, the hell Mithrun would have unleashed with his words alone.
And yet, even here, Mehemis is too level - too understanding. Maybe not out of kindness. Mehemis isn't stupid, he knows. But whatever his angle is, Mithrun would not have responded this way. And maybe he wishes Mehemis would have reproached the "hypothetical" with more cruelty - let Mithrun feel himself cleanly cut off entirely, instead of halfway torn.
He is silent, for a time. For once, his silver tongue fails him. )
... Even someone like me wants to be happy, Mehemis.
( But he doesn't know how. No motive to manipulate him now - maybe a desire to hurt him, but, in this briefest of moments, he doesn't speak with malignant motivation toward Mehemis. Maybe he's just trying to hurt himself. )
I only began to lie when I grew distant with you. Everything before that was...
( He trails off. All this feels strange to admit to himself. Yes, he was fake at the very start, but... it gave way quicker than he'd like.
A beat, and then he exhales - and there are the beginnings of Mithrun trying to recompose himself; trying to distance himself from his own heart, again. )
... If I were a kinder person, I would have come up with a decent lie for why I did this - a better reason for all your loss. But this is the sort of person who grew taken with you.
( ... )
You and your people were simply unlucky I came to know you. That's all.
i hope you're feeling better!
A confession. Is Mithrun claiming affection for the very king he's ruined? Golden eyes blink, momentary shock tempering his anger.
Slightly. ]
Taken with me? When we grew distant?
[ His large form steps forward. Should the small man not hold so much political power, it could seem like a terrifying situation as Mimi easily towered over the slender figure. ]
This selfish thing you're feeling... it's not affection.
[ He could almost laugh. ]
If you cared for me at all, you wouldn't leave me with no choice but to beg with words that probably won't even work! I have to watch my people die before I join them, and you're pretending it's because we grew distant?!
We grew distant the moment you betrayed me! I considered you a friend until I felt the knife in my back! If we have things to talk over, we can do that without involving my entire city!
[ His chest constricts. Once, would he have considered Mithrun's feelings? The king is certainly stunted in certain ways, but his words of friendship ring true. Odd as they are, the two had somehow found enough common ground for a positive, enjoyable relationship. If Mimi hadn't been so stupid as to believe the lies, if he hadn't believed in the friendship they'd forged, he wouldn't have been so shocked by the treason. ]
Call this off, and let's talk. What's between the two of us should stay between the two of us.
Sherry | The Priest's Chart | OTA
OTA for gen, 18+ for shipping to be mutual.
Please note that Sherry is a dragon and has some features that might stick out. His ears are pointed like an elf, and his eyes are like that of a cat.
Not the antagonist party but open to pretty much all options.)
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