Part 17 - Moonlit Memories[NSFW]

The boy02/05/2020

The next month was a long, arduous task for Able. The bandaged man had to stop hurting himself with alcohol and edible mind altering substances. Able had him agree, after a very long tiresome conversation arguing with the man. He whined and complained and fussed and still tried sneaking in drink. Able had to change tactics, and would regularly visit the bandaged man's room, going through his things whilst the man looked nervously. Able would find mostly empty bottles he'd likely forgotten to thrown away years ago, and even then he confiscated them. If he found even a half empty old bottle he threw it out. Able managed to purge the spire of any goods of the sort. He often ranted about it to Virgil on his meets. He then remembered that he was getting money through the bandaged, and apologized, though Virgil seemed more interested in the progress the bandaged man was making. Able did enjoy those small breaks in the month to get out of the spire and not have to nervously search the spire. He did worry still even when he was out, however. Able spent that time mostly cleaning, as it kept him aware of where everything was and how things were placed and if anything new was brought into the spire. Classes seemed to be absolutely canceled for that time, but he was fine as long as the bandaged man wasn't drinking. Able had once found a full bottle of surface wine hiding under Charlemagne, the hat looking incredulously as per usual, but what wasn't usual was how he stood up straight. He spent that day lecturing the bandaged man, and threw the bottle out. The bandaged man got visibly distressed, and angry, but did little more than go to sulk in his room. Able was getting tired, and his body was sore from lifting books and putting things back all month. The bandaged man's study was more clean than it'd ever been since Able arrived. His room was... more tidy but still often a mess. Able sighed, hoping he was doing the right thing.

.

they02/05/2020

Down below, metal steps clank loudly; the bandaged man is wheezing, holding a small box to their chest as they climb the stairs. Their hands are fidgety, and their face has a deathlike pallor to their complexion from withdrawal as they slowly climb the steps.

The Bandaged: -Shaky; fidgety.- Agh. . .god, these boxes are heavy. . .hhhf. . .damn that child. . .damn that child to Hell, I deserved that bottle. . .searching my stash, like I'm a criminal. . .god. . .well, I didn't agree to light, now did I? . .

The boy02/05/2020

Able is poking through the study, pulling Charlemagne along on a rolling mannequin. He was tired of doing this alone, and the hat often brought a bit of amusement to his otherwise boring routine.

Able: Now, I could leave you on the mannequin. Or! I could shove you down a waste basket. Or worse I could put you on my head.

Able grins, opening drawers and moving books.

Able: Of course, that could all change if you'd just be more open about what the bandaged man is hiding..

they02/05/2020

The hat ruffles its brim, squinting its eyes.

Charlemagne: NOW WHY SHOULD I TALK WITH A RUFFIAN LIKE YOU? WHAT DO I GET OUT OF IT?

The boy02/05/2020

Able snorts as he closes the drawer.

Able: Well it's not so much what you'll gain as what you might lose if you don't. I'm sure you're well stitched together, but every seam has a weakness..

they02/05/2020

The hat screeches at Able, raising its brim and fluttering wildly.

Charlemagne: ARE YOU INSINUATING I AM MADE OF INFERIOR STITCHWORK? I AM MADE OF QUALITY FABRIC, WORKED BY HAND AND FASTENED BY THE CLAY MEN OF POLYTHREME! I AM NOT AN URCHIN FOP-HAT!

The boy02/05/2020

Able turns to stare at Charlemagne critically, getting closer to stare at each part of him, then backs off.

Able: Really? Could have fooled me.

they02/05/2020

The hat screeches, ruffling madly and rocking on the mannequin.

Charlemagne: INSUBORDINATE RUFFIAN! HERETIC! ABSOLUTE CRIMINAL!

Meanwhile, the bandaged man is climbing upstairs, wheezing as the last stretch of stairs reverberates a metallic echo.

The Bandaged: -Wheezing; wincing.- Hhf. . .what on earth. . .what the Hell did that boy do? . .why's he screeching. . ?

The boy02/05/2020

Able: Oh dear, you sure did get to me. I'm so hurt.

Able says flatly, grinning.

they02/05/2020

The hat ruffles madly, slowly spinning around on the head of the rosewood mannequin as they do so.

Charlemagne: FELONOUS FRAUD! VORACIOUS VILLAIN! TERRIBLE THIEF! AN ABSOLUTE BUFFOON WHO OUGHT TO BE THROWN TO THE LABYRINTH!

Meanwhile, the bandaged man groans, stepping up the stairs faster; they then lean against the installed horizontal door, slamming the box repeatedly against it.

The Bandaged: -Frustrated; muffled.- Oy! Shut that hat up! And open the door!

The boy02/05/2020

Able: Aw. Well it was fun while it lasted.

Able moves to the door, flipping it open with ease.

Able: Where did you go?

they02/05/2020

The bandaged man steps back from the door, their eyebrows furrowed and their face darkening.

The Bandaged: -Mumbling.- I was. . .out picking up a delivery. . .just move aside. . .

The boy02/05/2020

Able looks unamused, closing the door carefully so it doesn't slam down. He then moves in front of the bandaged man.

Able: Right. Let's see it then, you know the drill.

they02/05/2020

The bandaged man shifts, smiling.

The Bandaged: I can tell you for a fact that it's not wine, or honey, or absinthe, or. . .er, yes. . .

The bandaged man leans forward, showing the box to Able with exaggerated motion. The box is made of wood, and the box has an insignia stamped on top of what looks to be a large floating candle-flame with a crescent moon spooning it.

The Bandaged: Unless you want to see it too?

The boy02/05/2020

Able raises his eyebrows, still looking flatly at the bandaged man.

Able: What's this? Another one of your little blinding devices?

Able looks miffed.

Able: I'm certain this falls under things that can hurt you.

they02/05/2020

The bandaged man holds it closer to their body, their eyes flitting around.

The Bandaged: N-no, I. . .it's just entertainment. . .'sides, you were fine, remember? It's fine, it's safe for everyone. . .

The boy02/05/2020

Able looks unconvinced.

Able: Prove it.

they02/05/2020

The bandaged man grins widely, before quickly moving to the jade cornered desk.

The Bandaged: Ah, yes! Yes, come here, come here. . .please, you'll like this, I promise. . .

The bandaged man sets the box down onto the desk, stepping back from it.

The Bandaged: See, y'see. . .it's a wondrous light. . .sunlight, cut with moonlight. . .it makes you remember.

The boy02/05/2020

Able follows the bandaged man carefully.

Able: Remember what? I haven't forgotten anything.

they02/05/2020

The bandaged man holds a hand against Able's face.

The Bandaged: Shshshhhh, that's. . .this is something special. . .it lets you remember a different life. . .a life, if you made the right choices. . .if you made a wise choice. . .what if something else happened? If you righted a wrong? . .this lets you see.

The boy02/05/2020

Able stands there, very bothered, wishing he was at dante's as opposed to this. He would rather do that right now, but he kept himself calm, and grabbed the bandaged man's wrist to pull it away.

Able: I suppose that's mildly curious.

they02/05/2020

The bandaged man nods vigorously.

The Bandaged: Yes, yes, come. . .just, push your face closer, I promise it'll be fun. . .

The bandaged man leans forward, holding the top of the lid.

The Bandaged: Just. . .jus'h lean your head in. . .c'mere, you'll like it. . .

The boy02/05/2020

Able doesn't argue, he's too tired. He figured the man could have one indulgence. Able wished it was time to head out already, but he still had the rest of the day to get through. Honestly he'd stomach tea and spice with Virgil over this nonsense. He'll humor the bandaged man, though. He leans in, sighing.

Able: Fine, fine. I'll allow it this one time.

they02/05/2020

Thw bandaged man slaps the top of the lid. . .

The Bandaged: Excellent!

. . .before the lid slowly opens back. A small structure of glim, shaped like a crescent moon, lifts out of the box, slowly lifting back. The bandaged man scowls, and grabs the lid, forcing it back and making the delicate mechanisms inside whir faster.

The Bandaged: -Low.- Pah. . .I don't have time for this. . .

A series of glim structures violently whir into view, the visual representation of a music box forcibly wound fast; an image of a moon, opening from a crescent to a full moon and back, whirs past, moving so fast that they create soft crunching noises as they slam into each other. Despite this, the bandaged man keeps pushing the lid further back quickly. . .

The Bandaged: Come on, I don't have time for this. . .hurry up, just give it to m- aCH!

. . .before, suddenly, the cut glim forms a full moon with a face, with the images pushing back; a click, and then a brilliant flash of light; the light is warm, and the bandaged man's exposed skin crackles like fireworks. Able's vision floods with a warm orange swirling into a pale blue, the light searing into his eyes and blinding him.

The boy02/05/2020

Able is unamused by the bandaged man's impatience, but supposes it was due to withdrawal. The flash of light was no more pleasant than the last time, he curses, rubbing his eyes.

Able: Hell on earth! Why does it always hurt! Christ!

----------.

they02/05/2020

When Able's vision recovers, he sees. . .tables. Specifically, it's the outside pavilion at Caligula's, the tables and chairs fairly full. The familiar spot where Able and Virgil met seems to be free; apparently, a reservation was made, as signaled by a small candle set on the table. . . .everything looks off. Not terribly so, but everything seems to waver and vaguely shimmer, like the light of false-stars reflecting off of the surface of the Zee, or like candlelight glowing off of the waves of the rivers of Wolfstack Docks. Apart from that, however, the scene seems familiar enough.

The boy02/05/2020

Able squints, surprised a bit that he isn't still blinded. The scene seems so surreal. The bandaged man said this was supposed to be.. an alternate life but... It seemed fairly normal. Able moves to the table, wondering if he would see his own self or otherwise his "right choices." Able figured perhaps he was already living the best he could. That was a bit depressing to think about. He then sees himself, which was a startling occurrence in itself, and then Virgil walking with him. Able moved away from the table, to watch himself and Virgil sit, having a fairly normal and idle conversation, ordering drinks. He can hear himself from this distance. Griping about the bandaged man. Able wasn't sure this was a "good" timeline, more like a "tomorrow" timeline.

☽Able: He's been incredibly fussy about damned near everything lately. I try to remember I'm doing some good but it's... Well it's very difficult.

The other him smiles, looking away a bit.

☽Able: I'm just glad to get these small breaks with you, it's certainly a little oasis compared to the task I've set myself on..

they02/05/2020

The other deacon adjusts their collar as they seat themselves across from Able. They're dressed in their Sunday casuals, their sunglasses reflecting the candlelight before their robes soak it up, extinguishing the candles nearby (much to the chagrin of the guests, though they don't make any fuss about it).

☽Virgil: Ah, when you say fussy, I presume. . .moreso than usual? As far as I know, that's the only way he exists. Ah, excuse me. . .

The other deacon waves a waiter over, and, as they rush over holding menus, he waves them aside.

☽Virgil: -To the waiter; in passing.- The usual for me, and a little more; some rolls, and a glass of water. Boiled, then filtered.

The waiter bows, and heads back into the coffeehouse as the other deacon turns to Able, resting their hands on the table comfortably.

☽Virgil: Ah. . .do you make it a habit to have infernal company? Or is it just yours truly?

The boy02/05/2020

Able sees himself sigh heavily, looking briefly bothered, and then relaxing.

☽Able: Much more than usual.

He makes a bit of a smirk.

☽Able: Well if you're going to spoil me with a proper drink then I cannot see why not, Virgil.

The other Able smiles, leaning in a bit.

☽Able: I cannot think of better company, even without such frivolous items.

Able blinks. Confused. Were they on a first name basis? Must've just gotten a bit more comfortable as friends, he figured. At least he had the good sense to get water, though he wondered why the deacon would know this.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon sits back in their chair, a small smile twitching at the corners of their lips.

☽Virgil: Now, Able, you know that I have a reputation to keep. . .imagine what the devils would think if they find me emoting sincerely around a human. Outcast, I'd be.

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able snickers, looking very amused.

☽Able: Oh really? Maybe they'll be quiet if they knew how many times you had my soul in your hands. Certainly you'd be envied over all.

He laughs, sitting back. Able nearly had a heart attack. Was that happening more? He could barely handle it one time, more than once was a bit terrifying. At least it seemed that he kept having it returned? Able was still confused.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon sits back, covering their twitching mouth with a fist and falsely coughing so as to pass it off as a polite clearing of the throat.

☽Virgil: -Stifling a "cough"; with a light tone.- Ahem. . .well, I'm sure they think that your soul is the best part of you.

The other deacon leans forward, leaning in a bit closer to the other Able's face.

☽Virgil: . . .I'd suppose them to be wrong. Your company raises spirits enough. Ah, here we are.

The other deacon sits back in their chair as a waiter holding a basket walks towards the duo's table. They set down a basket of dark brown rolls, and a glass filled with the clearest water Able has ever seen (they sell this at Caligula's? For what price?). In front of the other deacon, the waiter sets down a small glass of what looks to be tea with milk added(? Since when did the deacon drink tea with milk? With anything?). The waiter moves to speak to the deacon, but is waved off as the deacon turns their head to them.

☽Virgil: -To the waiter; in passing.- Ah, yes; I'll pay for it.

The boy02/05/2020

Able furrows his brow. What sort of nonsense was this, was the deacon being serious? He watches himself(a still troubling aspect of the whole thing) take the glass of water happily.

☽Able: Honestly, if I knew you'd be so up front in public I'd have prepared a more proper gift!

The other Able sighs dramatically.

☽Able: Ah, but I will have to make up for it in a bit later, mh?

He takes a long drink of his water, looking fairly pleased with himself.

☽Able: Though you should let me pay for something at least, I'm not so low on funds to have you fuss over me.

Able wonders what later was. Typically the end of tea or dinner was the end of their interactions beyond maybe a small walk after. Though he supposed that something like that wouldn't be too out of the question, a little bit more time out of the spire wasn't a bad thing.

.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon reaches over for a roll as the waiter walks off and heads back into Caligula's.

☽Virgil: Ah, consider it my treat.

The other deacon breaks the bread in twain, before pulling out a square of fabric lining the inside of the bread basket. He hands off one half of their split roll to the other Able, setting it down onto the napkin near Able as if this was a comfortable routine.

☽Virgil: If you insist in paying, however, you can offer something of different value. Later, of course.

The boy02/05/2020

Able was even more confused, and concerned. What sort of price was he talking about? Is his best option really his soul getting pulled out? What else could he mean by this?

☽Able: Mh, if you so wish.

The other Able takes fairly small bites out of his roll before setting it down. It looked like he was purposefully trying to stay longer. He seemed to get just a bit flush, but Able didn't really notice it. Able seemed more jealous of the fact that he did seem to have more nice things regardless. He wanted something nice to drink too. It was such an uncommon thing to get something as simple as clean water down in the neath, though it tended to be a bit more pricey. Able sighed, distracted whilst the other two chatted with each other.

they02/05/2020

-------

Whatever this meeting was, it took much longer than the usual tea meetings Able had. When the other Able finished talking about the worries of getting the bandaged man clean, the other deacon talked of the shifty patron of their church who kept nicking the candles and the chat he had with him. When the other Able split a roll, the other deacon had received a piece with a particularly large mushroom chunk on the inside; to Able's mortification, the other Able laughed at the other deacon choking on it, before the horror turned to confusion at the other deacon merely spitting it out into a napkin and quietly smiling. When the other Able looked off towards the street, the other deacon lightly palmed his hand, and he didn't withdraw. Only when the basket was empty, and the glasses drained, did the other deacon move to look at the watch latched to their chest.

☽Virgil: -Looking down at their watch.- Ah. . .is it already that late? . .hm.

The other deacon stands from their seat, smoothing out their collar.

☽Virgil: I suppose I ought to walk you home? Unless, you'd rather head elsewhere?.

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able stands as well, sighing.

☽Able: Well, I should...

They step towards the deacon.

☽Able: But I think today I would like to join you. Besides, I think I still owe you for the meal.

He smiles. Able's head was churning. The events were starting to piece together in his mind, but he was trying very hard to ignore it.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon stands, stepping towards the other Able and offering a hand to them.

☽Virgil: Ah; my church then?

The boy02/05/2020

☽Able: Yes, please.

The other Able takes the deacon's hand, looking at him with an expression Able can't quite pinpoint, though it gave him an odd sensation. He felt his face get a bit warm, and was thoroughly confused.

they02/05/2020

The pair of them, other Able and other Virgil, walk off from the pavilion, their hands clasped together. In the next moment, the scene swirls violently, like the surface of water being disturbed from a gust of wind from the Sea of Voices. It's like standing just above a whirlpool of water, where one is in peril of falling in yet far above the swirling water. . . . .and, like that, the water settles, the light reflecting onto it smoothly. Able is standing on a street near Ladybones Road, a street that was along the church he grew up on but further along. In front, there is what looks to be a peculiar church (certainly, his headmistress would be shocked by it). While it looks like a typical church, there are small changes made to it that makes it look a bit strange: the door is heralded with a cross, but the cross is flipped upside down and slightly charred; the building isn't made of brick but of a strange, glossy material not unlike insect chitin; and the building seems exceptionally narrow and tall yet still hospitable, fitting into the space between two neighboring buildings with ease. The other deacon is standing by the door, their back resting against it; they're checking their watch repeatedly, their face inscrutable.

☽Virgil: . . .mmh. . .

The boy02/05/2020

Able can see himself come up from an alley, looking a bit sore. He rubs his arm, stretching and moving it as if he'd pulled it a bit too much. The other Able quickly, but not too quickly, made his way to the entrance, a bit nonchalantly. He makes a quick glance at the deacon before heading in. Able follows himself, curious what he was doing.

☽Able: They locked it. I had to find a more strenuous route. Did you wait long?

they02/05/2020

The other deacon closes their watch, clasping it back onto their robe while walking behind the other Able, moving to shut the door behind them.

☽Virgil: Not much longer. . .though, I admit I was getting worried.

The inside of the church. . .well, it's surprising. First off, the inside of the church seems bigger than the outside. Much bigger; a whole council could fit easily at the end of the building, and a congregation of four churches could fit in the pews (both below and. . .above? There's room above?). Second, compared to the church Able grew up in, the inside of the church is immensely detailed, with carved reliefs of many saints carved into the walls and painted in bright colors. Overhead, there is a small chandelier of candles arranged in splendorous gold, wrought into detailed holders. Ahead, there is a wooden stand covered with a detailed swatch of fabric, with a Holy Bible and a large book that Able doesn't recognize. The other deacon has finished closing the door, and starts walking hurriedly towards the other Able, lightly holding their shoulder as they guide them to one of the empty seats.

☽Virgil: Come, sit. . .was it a hard impact?

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able looks miffed, but only slightly.

☽Able: Please, I am just fine, it was just a small accident.

That was odd, though Able looked around the room a bit, a little impressed. He wondered how long it took to make this place so well decorated. He turns to look at himself, who is looking a little embarrassed to be fussed over. At least that's how it seemed.

☽Able: I have had worse, let me assure you. It's not even bruised.

The other Able demonstrates his very clear ability to move his arm, apparently not noticing that he did indeed have a very minor scratch on his forehead.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon reaches up to their face, unhooking their sunglasses and tucking it to it hangs from their collar.

☽Virgil: Let me see. . .

The other deacon lightly grips the neck of the other Able's shirt, pulling it along gently to expose the top of the other Able's shoulder.

The boy02/05/2020

Able nearly jumps back, shocked at the deacon's nonchalant nature of this, and even more surprised that his only reaction was to gripe. The other Able sighs, a little annoyed.

☽Able: See? I am just fine.

It was sore, but there was no visible bruising. He grabs at the deacon's wrist gently.

☽Able: You shouldn't worry so much.. Though..

The other Able snickers.

☽Able: If you just wanted to expose me you should have asked.

He laughs, amused by his own teasing. Able is outright flush now though. This was a bit hard to ignore.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon rubs at the other Able's shoulder, sighing quietly.

☽Virgil: Come now. . .injuries are nothing to gloss over.

The other deacon looks closer at the other Able's shoulder, a hand gently cupping the underside of the other Able's chin and lifting his head up and out of the way as they lean in closer.

☽Virgil: . . .mmm. Nothing. . .though, do make sure you keep an eye on it if something happens.

The other deacon pulls away, their hand pulling away from the other Able's chin.

☽Virgil: Now, you. . .hm.

The other deacon lifts a hand, brushing the other Able's forehead.

☽Virgil: You've gotten a small nick on your forehead.

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able touches his head.

☽Able: Huh. Odd. It doesn't hurt that bad.

He huffs a bit, a little flush, seemingly getting more and more embarrassed the more the deacon worries over him

☽Able: Please, I'm quite fine. I can handle a little roughing up. It was my own fault anyhow, I wasn't really paying enough attention... ah... Suppose I was distracted.

The other Able touches the deacons arm, smiling a bit as he looks up at him.

☽Able: Actually maybe very distracted

Able is watching tepidly, occasionally looking away.

.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon rubs the other Able's head, slowly leaning in. . .

☽Virgil: Yes, well. . .

. . .and planting a small kiss on their cut, pulling away for a moment after brushing aside the small amount of blood on the other Able's forehead. They're smiling curtly, their hand moving to lightly touch the other Able's side of their neck.

☽Virgil: . . .mmm. . .you ought to be more attentive. If you don't take care of yourself, there won't be enough left over to enjoy.

The other deacon lightly brushes the other Able's neck, leaning in and crouching a little so they're level with the other Able.

☽Virgil: I will say, though, that it's a peculiar kind of flattering. . .knowing I preoccupy your thoughts so easily that you'd run into a gate. . .come here. . .

The other deacon leans in a bit further, planting a small kiss on the side of Able's neck.

.

The boy02/05/2020

Able curses, feeling his heart stop, before it's replaced by it banging loudly in his head. He watches himself with a mix of confusion and curiosity. Was this good? Did he like this? Did he fear this? How did this even happen? The other Able makes a little whimper, gripping the deacon's shoulders.

☽Able: ggf.. Ah well.. They are always lovely thoughts.

The other Able moves his hand to the side of the deacon's face.

☽Able: Wouldn't a more private setting be... better though?

He looked near red, but not upset, just a bit embarrassed to be doing these things in the proper church area of the building. Able covers his face, trying to process his thoughts. He didn't need to see this.. why would he need to see this?

***

they02/05/2020

The other deacon is lightly kissing the other Able's neck, pushing a little harder.

☽Virgil: Mmh. . .perhaps. Let me enjoy you a little longer though. . .you've been so busy, keeping an eye on your acquaintance. . .I haven't had time to savour you. . .

The other deacon quietly pushes a little harder into the other Able's neck, quietly kissing; the only reason Able can tell is because of the increasingly red flushing of his other self's face. Eventually, the other deacon withdraws, pulling away from the other Able's neck, their eyebrows a bit furrowed.

☽Virgil: Mmh. . .alright, that's enough.

The other deacon looks at the other Able's face, grabbing the other Able's chin for a moment. They speak a bit gravely, moving his head around a bit.

☽Virgil: -A hint of worry.- . . .do you feel healthy? Everything feels in focus, correct?

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able shudders, trying to keep his voice steady, but it is difficult when he's squirming under the deacon's grasp.

☽Able: -Quietly- Lords yes, a bit too focused. Mh, don't worry, you haven't taken me just yet.

He takes a deep breath, and then sighs shakily.

☽Able: Somewhere private, though? Your room is much more comfortable, and I'll see about returning the favor.

Able was screeching in his head, feeling faint, his heart threatening to explode from all this new information he still hadn't quite processed.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon shifts their grip, their hands moving to hold onto the other Able's sides. . .

☽Virgil: Mmh, that works. Alright, come here. . .

. . .before moving to pick up the other Able easily, as if moving them lifting him was as simple as Able picking up the bandaged man. They hold the other Able, supporting them over their shoulder so their head is against his neck.

☽Virgil: Come; we have a lot to talk about. Make yourself as comfortable as you can.

The other deacon clutches the other able close, looking towards a ladder placed at the back of the church as they do so.

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able sighs, seemingly very happy to be held regardless, wrapping his arms around the deacon. Able tries to turn around and leave, but it felt like he was only going back, towards where the other two were, like he was on a track. He is forced to follow the two, trying not to look, but hearing the other Able sigh little snide remarks about sweeping him away or things of that nature. It all seemed too nice, and he could feel his face burning. He couldn't leave, he was stuck, even if he tried to move away, he was pulled back. If he stayed still it pulled him even harder towards them. He didn't need to see these things.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon holds the other Able closer, and starts to grab the ladder, climbing upwards. As they do so, the floor underneath Able shimmers, warping out of view as he feels himself being pulled up higher, as if his body was levitating as the scene shimmers again. . . It snaps back into place; Able finds himself standing in what looks to be a cozy bedroom; there's a single bed, tucked into the corner and covered in silk blankets. In the opposite corner, there's a small mirror hanging over. . .a strange, metallic coffin? Perhaps not a coffin exactly, but it evokes the image of someone laying inside of it. It's difficult to tell what's inside, but there's the sound of trickling water and soft, waxy burbling coming from it. The floor is carpeted with a rectangular rug embroidered with incredibly intricate needlework; the artwork doesn't seem to be fixed, instead shifting slowly between various pictures of fire. . .soldiers at war. . .and other displeasing images. Above, there's a single lantern, a candle covered in Correspondence sigils resting inside and glowing much brighter than a single candle should. The other deacon moves to the bed, and slowly places them down to sit on the edge of the bed, the bed compressing and sinking as the other Able's weight compresses it. They then quickly move over to the coffin-shaped vessel, closing it and quieting the room.

☽Virgil: . . .pardon the noise..

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able relaxes, seeming to be a lot more comfortable to be here. He tilts his head a bit.

☽Able: Has it been a difficult week?

Able looks up, looking around the room, this seemed much too private. He feels like he was snooping on Virgil in some way, but its not as if he could run away. The other Able looks a little worried.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon sighs, moving closer to the other Able.

☽Virgil: It's been a little tense. Perhaps not for anyone else, but. . .

The other deacon clears their throat, moving to sit besides the other Able, unbuttoning their starched collar.

☽Virgil: The council I've had today was particularly sinful. Do you have any idea how hard it is to ignore that?

The other deacon sighs as their collar pops open, relieving their stiff neck and permitting them to slouch; they don't, however.

☽Virgil: It makes it look so delectable. . .like a marinade is to meat.

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able, instead of fleeing from that comment like he'd hope, leans into the deacon, rubbing his back.

☽Able: I do not, but it does seem rather difficult.

He sighs pressing into the deacon's side, looking a little worried.

☽Able: I am sorry it has been a strenuous day for you.

The other Able, despite his worried look, is still rather flush, especially after the deacon's words. Able wants to flee, feeling that same heat in his face.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon sighs, pushing their head into the other Able.

☽Virgil: Ah, I'm sure it was nothing compared to what you had to do. . .I'm sure you've spent all day searching the entire spire thoroughly. . .

The other deacon kisses the other Able's neck, wrapping an arm around them as they do so.

☽Virgil: Mh. . .your diligence makes you so much more enjoyable. . .

The other deacon is slowly wrapping both arms around the other Able, hugging them gently as they rest their head on his shoulder.

☽Virgil: . . .it does frighten me how appetizing you look to me, but. . .seeing you grow like this is worth more.

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able doesn't seem too bothered about what the deacon said, though he certainly looked more flustered. He places a hand on the deacon's face, humming a bit, still shuddering a bit with all the affection.

☽Able: Well... I won't let you take me just yet, you'll have to wait a hundred years at least.

The other Able presses a small kiss on the deacons forehead, amused by his own joke. (Was it a joke? Able wasn't really sure what was real at this point.)

☽Able: Until then.. You'll have to sate yourself some other way, mh?

He grins, pulling the deacon closer, holding him before falling onto the bed with him.

☽Able: Don't worry, I'll make sure to let you know if you're ever too much..

they02/05/2020

The other deacon leans in instinctively, before pausing and slowly propping themselves above the other Able.

☽Virgil: Mmh. . .gladly, then.

The other deacon moves to grab at the other Able's chin, forcing him to lift his head a bit.

☽Virgil: -Quietly.- . . .tell me if you feel like you're losing yourself, alright?

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able looks at the deacon, and then seems to hum, looking away, possibly to avoid getting too flush.

☽Able: Mh, of course. Gently, though.

they02/05/2020

☽Virgil: Mh. . .come here, then. . .

The other deacon nods, and slowly lowers their head to plant a silent kiss onto the other Able's neck, a sliver of amber peeking through as they lower their eyelids.

☽Virgil: -Quietly.- . . .mh. . .your soul flares so beautifully, you know. . .

The other deacon lowers themselves onto the other Able, moving their grip to gently hold the other Able's shoulders and part squeezing, part lifting them up as their lips part and kiss onto the other Able's neck.

☽Virgil: -Quietly.- . . .mmh. . .and yet, you leave it. . .mm. . .within the grip of a devil. . .bold. . .

The other deacon pulls away a bit, sighing.

☽Virgil: . . .not wise, but. . .

The other deacon pauses for a moment, before returning to the other Able's neck, kissing a bit more forcefully.

☽Virgil: -Muttering to themselves.- Mmh. . .but I'll enjoy you in other ways. . .mm. . .yes. . .

The other deacon is lowering onto the other Able; between them, a bulge is slithering its way up along the other deacon's shirt, squishing between them and the other Able's chest as the other deacon starts kissing harder, the sounds of kisses finally making itself known as he slowly stops making an effort to quiet himself.

.

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able is shuddering under the deacon, wrapping his arms around them as soon as he can. He seems to be wanting this closeness, stifling his whimpers even when he's alone with the deacon.

☽Able: A-Ah... you're not just any devil...mmf... though are you? mm... no... you're...

The other Able gets cut off with a whimper escaping his throat, the deacon apparently being very aggressive. Able is covering his mouth, feeling his body grow more and more on fire. This was... Why was it nice? Did he want this?

☽Able: You're wonderful..

The other Able squirms a bit, but only holds onto the deacon a little tighter.

they02/05/2020

The other deacon pauses for a moment.

☽Virgil: -Quietly.- . . .you really shouldn't have said that.

The other deacon pushes down onto the other Able, the bed compressing a little lower as they push their head closer to their neck.

☽Virgil: -Quietly.- . . .I hope you'll. . .forgive me if this is too much. . .

The other deacon lowers their head a bit more. . .a small flash of infernal fangs. . .and then, a bite; the other deacon has clamped down onto the other Able's neck, their teeth burying itself into the other Able as the other deacon lets out a long, audible groan and pushing their hip upward a bit. They pull off a bit, leaving two distinct depressions among a jaw of teeth. . .

☽Virgil: -Muffled.- Mmph. . .I haven't had a proper taste of you yet. . .

. . .before returning to the other Able's neck and clamping down in a different spot, gripping the other Able's shoulder before wrapping around their waist, their hands cradling his back.

☽Virgil: -Muffled; pulling off and biting repeatedly.- Mmh. . .forgive me. . .you're too succulent to not bite. . .mmph. . .if I can't have your soul. . .mmh. . .I'll have your body. . .mmh. . .in the only way I can. . .forgive me. . .mmh. . ..

The boy02/05/2020

The other Able whimpers loudly, their hands gripping their back tightly. He presses his body up into the deacon, trying to form words but they keep just being cut off with loud, unfiltered moans and whines.

☽Able: G-God! You...mmhf! V-Virgil..! ghf f!

He seems to be wincing with each new bite, but is still as red as ever. Able cannot watch this any more, covering his face, wanting to screech but his throat felt like it was stuck.

.

February 6, 2020

they02/06/2020

The other deacon bites the other Able repeatedly, the entirety of Able's neck slowly being covered in depressions. The other deacon doesn't progress further; they merely keep their weight on top of the other Able to keep them still while biting. A moment passes. Then, the other deacon pulls away from the other Able, their breath raggedy.

☽Virgil: . . .ah. . .you're enjoying this far too much. . . ☽Virgil: . . .I'm enjoying this more than I. . .should. . .

The other deacon stares at the other Able, before lowering their head and planting a solid kiss onto the other Able's mouth, staying there and evidently probing deep.

☽Virgil: . . .mmh. . .c'mere. . .

In the next moment, Able feels the ground underneath give way as the scene before them breaks apart like a gale breaking the surface of the Zee into waves. . .he feels himself falling, water swirling around. . . Able finds himself on his back, lying on the ground of the main room of the spire. Nearby, but out of view, he can hear the bandaged man groaning, a familiar slur in their voice.

The Bandaged: -Lisping.- . . .gghhf. . ..

The boy02/06/2020

Able lays on the floor for a bit, but then sits up suddenly, a wave of anger washing over him. Was he drinking? Already? He moves over to the bandaged man, grabbing his shoulders roughly.

Able: Just because I'm incapacitated doesn't mean you can just... Where did you get that anyway!

they02/06/2020

The bandaged man is holding a bottle of laudanum, waggling a finger at Able while smiling crookedly.

The Bandaged: -Arrogant; cocky.- M-mmh. . .see. . .I said I wouldn't drink. . .wine or honey. . .never. . .never said anything about medicinal laudanum, diiiid I. . ? No I didn't. . .

The boy02/06/2020

Able takes the bottle from the man forcefully.

Able: At this point you will be getting nothing consumable beyond bread and water if you keep this up.

Able is just distracted enough to ignore his "adventure" too mad to pay attention.

Able: What could have been so bad to make you start on this again?

they02/06/2020

The bandaged man's complexion darkens as Able takes the bottle away from him.

The Bandaged: -Darkly.- Fine. . .not like it helps. . .apparently, the future I have open for me is that I become MORE lonely. . .

The bandaged man gestures at Able.

The Bandaged: -Muttering.- . . .yeah, and what about you? Was yer future all daisys and roses, eh?

The boy02/06/2020

Able is holding the bottle away from the man. He suddenly remembers, his face getting very flush very quickly.

Able: ...Ah.. m-mm... Well....

He seems to fidget.

Able: It was certainly something.... Never mind. You're not getting this back. Go to bed.

Able suddenly storms off, taking the bottle with him.

[

12:30 AM

]

----

The boy02/06/2020

Able sat awake in bed. He didn't want to do anything, his weasels chittered at him and he merely tossed them their toy and went to bed. The problem was, he couldn't sleep. He turned in bed, pressing his face into his pillow, trying to just rest at least. He still had tomorrow to worry about, but he was sure he'd be too dead tired by the time he met up with the deacon to really focus on these thoughts at least. He closes his eyes, sighing heavily. What was he supposed to do with this? Would he really be happier with the deacon? Or was that just one of many possibilities? He didn't want to admit that he was starting to enjoy that thought, but he also couldn't really ignore it. Should he tell the deacon? Should he never mention it? Perhaps he should collect his thoughts before then at the very least. He remembers all the nice little moments he's already had with the deacon. He did still want to have tea with him regularly, but was it even possible like this? Able relaxes in his bed a bit, wondering if he would ever be treated like that. It seemed really lovely, but like an impossible thing. Able cursed himself, already riled up again, after he'd already dealt with that. He decided to just ignore it laying in bed quietly.

they02/06/2020

The bandaged man is peering down the hatch, watching to see if Able was asleep. Seeing his bed occupied, the bandaged man slowly heads down the stairs, walking quietly. . . .for him. Turns out, he's still not used to stairs; he fell on the last stair, stumbling and hitting the floor with a loud thwack.

The Bandaged: -Screaming.- Agh! Blasted furnaces of Hell!

The boy02/06/2020

Able groans, turning in bed, looking at the bandaged man. This was bothersome.

Able: Oy. Come over here.

they02/06/2020

The bandaged man lies still on the ground, looking up at Able. He doesnt make a sound, staring at Able quietly and perfectly frozen in an uncomfortable propped up position.

The boy02/06/2020

Able: Now. I don't have the energy to have you ignore me today.

Able growls, extremely annoyed.

they02/06/2020

The bandaged man scowls, standing up and stumbling a bit as they walk towards Able.

The Bandaged: Now, see. .you were. . .you're being irresponsible, staying up late; you're going to ruin your sleeping habits. . .

The boy02/06/2020

Able watches the bandaged man get closer before he sits up. Able stands, grabbing the man by the shoulder to force him down to his level.

Able: What did I tell you about when you can't sleep? Resting.

Able groans, trying to ignore his own thoughts.

Able: There are other tricks, less savory tricks, indecent tricks.

they02/06/2020

The bandaged man sneers, putting a hand to Able's face.

The Bandaged: Ha! You think I fear death?

The bandaged man tries standing up, pushing out of Able's grip easily as they point at him.

The Bandaged: There is nothing that you could do to me, ya bastard! I'm on first name basis with the Boatman! I have married insanity! I've been exiled more times than I can remember!

The bandaged man lightly paps Able's face with the palm of their hand.

The Bandaged: I fear nothing.

The boy02/06/2020

Able is unamused, and grabs the man's wrist, pulling his hand away.

Able: Aye you twat I'm tryin to get you in bed can ye take a hint.

Able was tired, and he wasn't going to get sleep anyway.

they02/06/2020

The bandaged man squints his eyes at Able, raising a finger.

The Bandaged: Only if I get to drink while doing it.

The boy02/06/2020

Able sits on the bed, letting the bandaged man go. He doesn't answer for a bit. Instead he starts to unbuckle his pants, sighing as he grabs his own half hard member.

Able: Girls are in the kitchen sleeping. Don't worry.

Was the only thing he said before he lays back, starting to heartily pump his hand along his member, sighing and panting to himself. Fine, if he didn't want to help, he'd do it himself.

February 7, 2020

they02/07/2020

The bandaged man stares at Able, their eyebrows furrowing as a slightly drunk pout builds on their face. They suddenly push a hand onto Able's face, scowling.

The Bandaged: -Slurring.- Oy, yer not gonna touch yerself on my watch! That's just indecent!

The boy02/07/2020

----

That night was filled with arguing about masturbation and alcohol. It delved into such aggressive arguing that they both ended up yelling and screaming so loudly that they seemed to not notice that Able was on top of the bandaged man with his dick in his hand. Bandaged argued so loudly that by the time Able was inside him they both stopped for just a brief second. This then escalated into Able holding the bandaged man down, arguing about the effects of mind altering consumables whilst railing into the man's rear. The bandaged man was very upset but argued more about how it wasn't fair that he had to go through this just because of Able's hang ups as opposed to the aggressive thrusting into him. They argued until their throats were sore and very tired, and ended up waking up in a heap together on Able's bed. Able, annoyed, and surprised, ended up fleeing and bathing. He then headed out of the spire, dressed, cleaned, and having fed the weasels before the bandaged man could wake up. Able still had to get through the day.

-----