[Zed needs some advice, and Avicebron is the first who comes to mind:]
Debating on sinking myself to the bottom of the ocean to best avoid mishaps with this moonblessing. I'm more reactive this time and at a loss over what else I can do.
[ If he knew Zed's thought process, Avicebron would have scolded him for not having someone better to look to. But, well. He doesn't, so he just assumes he's one of several people Zed's reached out to. ]
I suppose if anyone could survive being submerged for a prolonged time, it would be you. But I would still suggest that you refrain.
I assume you've contacted me because there is a way I can help you. What can I do for you?
[ The symptoms tend to differ from person to person, after all. Presumably, the treatments also differ accordingly. (At least, to some degree. Even if the bottom line is always the same.) ]
[ As if it's possible to dispense any wisdom when it comes to dealing with this city and its ridiculous effects. He's sighing a bit to himself, resenting the moons not for the last time, but quickly returns his focus to helping Zed calm down. ]
Isolate yourself if you must, but you cannot realistically expect to leave the city every month. It would be an emergency measure at best.
By 'mishaps' I assume you mean the desire for intimacy. You're young, with a good physique. I can't imagine you would have difficulty finding someone willing to help you. As embarrassing as it can be, such is the way of this city, and nobody would condemn you for it.
[If this were anyone else lecturing him about finding a sex buddy, Zed would be dying internally. But since it's Avicebron-sensei, he only feels somewhat embarrassed.]
Saving up for a sailboat doesn't seem like a bad idea now.
It's not just that. It feels like my blood is boiling. When I'm near other people, I feel like I might lash out any second. I don't think I could be intimate like this.
I see. Perhaps my advice about finding a partner was redundant if you're prepared to accumulate that much Chroma.
[ It's a joke. But after he sends it, it really sinks in that now is probably not the time for his droll sense of humor. ]
I apologize. I shouldn't be saying such things when you're suffering.
I don't believe indulging in violence is the best way to handle anger or frustration. But it is a necessary step at times. Would it be helpful to you if I created something you could fight without harming anybody? It may help you calm down.
[Zed would totally agree that violence out of anger is not the best and certainly not part of his repertoire. Maybe he'd even find the joke funny in its own way. But right at this moment, his brain zeroes in on the chance to vent.]
Yes please. I would try anything to avoid hurting anyone unjustly.
[ He wasn't looking to expend a lot of Chroma today, but it's fine. Zed sounds fairly distressed, so it'll be worth it to help him. Avicebron's already moving to make preparations. ]
Very well. Find a quiet, open space you can get to without difficulty, then send me the location. I will be there as soon as possible.
[The location Zed sends after some time is a more secluded clearing within Level 2's groves. Zed sits in a meditative posture and he looks otherwise serene until Avicebron arrives. As if flipping a switch, his whole body tenses as he looks up with a jerk of his head, like a predator spying a new target. A few tense seconds pass, and Zed forces an exhale while reigning himself in. He stands then, giving a bow to Avicebron:]
[ He arrives in spiritual form, appearing out of thin air with a shimmer of light. So he can understand Zed being startled to some degree -- but that level of aggression is certainly a surprise, given how calm Zed's seemed at other times. The moon's effects must really be getting to him. ]
Mm. Worry about that later.
[ Avicebron waves aside Zed's polite greeting, instead getting straight to work. He's brought along some pre-made golem cores, and kneels to the ground, pressing one into the dirt. Within moments, a golem made of dirt and rock emerges from the ground; Avicebron snaps his fingers, and it slowly lumbers towards Zed, eyes glowing dimly. ]
It will fight defensively, and I can create more if necessary. You've no need to hold back.
[ On a more selfish note, this is a good chance to observe Zed's abilities. A little side benefit to helping Zed out. A normal human would never stand a chance against his golems, but ... well, he'll have to see what Zed's capable of. ]
[...Makes sense why Caster calls himself such. Zed's more used to fighting trash golems than he cares to admit, but he has to wonder how strong an earthen one could turn out. He doesn't doubt that its durability is increased by magic. Otherwise, it wouldn't be a good opponent to beat on.
Zed summons forth a blood trident as the golem approaches. But rather than a smooth, instantaneous morphing, the blood comes out his hand as writhing tendrils that he forces into form. It feels good to have it out instead of suppressing the urge. And while sight and feel of his own blood does a bit to fulfill a some need in him, it doesn't ease him completely. Plus, there's a nice ring to hearing that he doesn't need to hold back.
His work with the trident is lightning quick as he lashes out at the golem's limbs, slices that would even cut steel cleanly. Then one hop away for distance, and Zed pulls his arm back to javelin his weapon at the golem's face, aiming for right between those glowing eyes. The moment the trident leaves his fingers, a burst of air explodes from it, propelling it faster and with more force to pierce.]
[ Those slices cleave through rock and dirt, leaving deep gashes that hamper the golem's movements. Even with Avicebron's direct control, it struggles to take a wide-armed swipe at Zed -- leaving it wide open for that javelin-throw. The spear impales through the golem with raucous noise, and the golem jolts before starting to crumble, its inner core damaged. ]
Impressive.
[ A low murmur under his breath as Avicebron immediately touches the ground once more, summoning another one -- this time with a longer incantation, the ground around him glowing before a golem strides forth. This one's darker in color, parts of it reinforced with twists of tree root.
He'd had a hunch that Zed's abilities would be far beyond that of a normal human, but this is even greater than what he expected. Of course, his own golems are greatly hampered by the cost of mana usage and the poor materials here, but he's still determined to rise to the challenge.
He'll just keep making better, longer-lasting ones until he finally finds one that will wear Zed out. ]
[Zed's glad for the continuous production of golems as he goes about hacking apart, skewing, and dismantling one by one. He sticks to using his trident for the most part, though he does occasionally use ropes and spikes to impede movement so he can eagerly gouge away at roots and earth. (No tornadoes today. The poor trees don't deserve it.) After the third goes down, he laughs in triumph. There's something euphoric in it that he's never found in fighting before. He should be more alarmed, yet the fishman continues to look forward to the next round.
However, pleasure from violence doesn't leave him completely mindless. When the Chroma drain from his powers begins to touch his senses, Zed recalculates and turns his attention back to Avicebron when the latest golem falls. The trident unravels into a fine threads that launch towards the man. If the violent streak were to continue, they would be meant to cleave through metal and flesh. Instead, they act more as bindings or good enough distractions for Zed to close in, reaching out with the intent to draw Avicebron closer by his waist. Logic(?) tells him that he needs more Chroma to fight, but the idea of keeping him close is an added bonus.
The only downfall is that Zed acts first before communicating his intent.]
[ Avicebron isn't one to enjoy combat, but this is thrilling in its own way. He doesn't get many excuses or opportunities to rapidly prototype like this. Each time a golem falls, he eagerly summons another, each one slightly different and stronger than the last. It's certainly using up a lot of Chroma though, and fast. Maybe that's why he's starting to feel a little dizzy? Another golem crumbles back into dirt, and Avicebron prepares to summon another, but it takes him a moment to properly form a mental image.
And in that instant, Zed ... attacks him?!
It's awfully undignified, but Avicebron lets out a startled grunt as those threads snap around his arms. And really, all he can do is steel himself for the incoming impact. He has no real combat prowess, and as a Servant, he should be able to survive an attack or two. Hopefully.
He doesn't weigh that much, and his strength is pretty negligible. Which means one good tug at the threads is all it takes to yank him forward right into Zed's grasp. Avicebron whaps right into Zed's chest, reflexively grabbing at his arms as he tries to figure out what the hell is going on.
The immediate warmth of moonlacing tingling at his palms just adds to the confusion. ]
[The energy that rolls through him once Zed has the blond in his arms is both a perfect sensation and yet a terrible provocation for his moon-afflicted mind. Those webbed hands do more than just wander; the epitome of possessiveness, Zed grasps at Avicebron as if intending to feel out every detail. Each rib, each bump of vertebrae, every little inch of his torso that he can touch. If the mask wasn't in place, he'd probably attack his lips as well. Instead, Zed bows his head and his eyes narrow into slits as he savors the Chroma from each touch. The threads of blood move too, braver than his hands. Tendril-like, they split between searching for a way to invade underneath the mask or continue downwards, caressing at his pelvis.
It's a long minute to endure, but the fishman's brain finally kicks in and reminds him that this wasn't the original plan. The threads disappear in a blink, and Zed looks horrified at his behavior while he practically has to pry himself off of Avicebron. (There's a significant tinge of pink coloring his face too.)]
I-I'm so sorry! That-- I was thinking about Chroma levels, then...! [Then he ended up getting handsy with sensei. Not a great look.] Please forgive me!
[ He would have at least been marginally prepared for pain, but he sure wasn't ready to feel hands dragging down his back. Avicebron can't help giving a muffled yelp when he feels those tendrils winding around his throat and creeping under the hard shell of his body armor. It doesn't hurt, of course, but he's still on-edge from the fight, and the lingering tension amplifies the intense heat of moonlacing. It's a dizzying combination, and when Zed's fingers graze against the small of his back, he exhales hoarsely, audibly.
And of course, in that state, his knees buckle the instant Zed lets go of him. Avicebron stumbles back a step before simply sitting on the ground; he needs a moment to compose himself before shaking his head. ]
... no -- there's nothing to forgive. [ His words sure sound a little stilted! But also a bit breathless. ] You caught me by surprise. That is all. You can't be blamed for acting on the moon's effects.
[ A deep inhale and slow exhale. It's fine, this is fine. He just needs a moment to calm down. Avicebron averts his gaze, touching absently at his mask. ]
Desperate or not, you shouldn't resort to someone like me. If you've worked off your aggression, you should seek out someone more suitable.
[When Avicebron takes a seat, Zed doesn't take long to bring himself down on his hands and knees. It feels like the correct thing to do, yet his expectation to be berated (or clubbed over the head until loss of consciousness) isn't set in reality. So Zed simply looks lost.
This doesn't compute-- that last statement even more so. Avicebron's words light a flickering hope and a tightness in his chest. Zed's not so sure what to do with either case, but he echoes quietly, cautiously:]
"Someone more suitable"...? I don't understand. [His fingers curl into his palms until his claws cut. The feeling and smell of blood is oddly reassuring despite it being his own.]
[ Zed seems ... confused? Understandable, he supposes. The moons' effects are potent, and it must be difficult thinking straight when one's libido is being amplified so violently.
Avicebron nods, sitting up a little straighter. He deliberately keeps his tone of voice calm and level, just in case there's any lingering bloodlust that he needs to avoid setting off. ]
You're young and attractive. Earnest and good-natured. Most would be happy to have your company. Don't sell yourself short. [ He would have figured this much would be obvious, but maybe Zed just needs to hear it said out loud. Avicebron cants his head thoughtfully as he adds, ] ... mm, though if you're still feeling any aggression, it would be better to take it out on me. Despite how I seem, I'm more durable than most.
[What is he supposed to do with all that praise? Besides being flustered over it (which he does). Zed ultimately decides to mull it over later because he doesn't want to find someone else. But maybe it could be to his advantage too--]
...You speak highly of me, yet you're only willing to accept my aggression, huh? [Not that he feels the need to fight right now...Call it a moment of limited clarity? Or reprioritizing. The strings of blood that flow out from Zed's clenched hands reach for Avicebron again, the real target of his current affliction-affection. They advance like vines, curling around and embracing his body all the way up to his neck. It's unfortunate he can't feel through them too. They're only meant to embody Zed's selfish thoughts, clinging rather than constrictive of movement so far.]
[ He tenses slightly when those blood tendrils emerge once more, exhaling slowly as they begin to wind up his body. It's a strange sensation, being held by these threads, feeling them pull snug around his body without cutting in; the ones around his throat shift when he swallows hard, trying not to think about the pressure prickling against his limbs.
Not for the first time, he wonders why people here are so accepting. Perhaps his history would have been different, had he met such people in life -- ah, no, he shouldn't let his thoughts wander. Even if the coil of threads around his waist is making it hard to stay focused. ]
I can't pretend I'm not flattered by your ... attention. [ It's not like he can hide the slightly breathy quality to his voice, after all. Avicebron forces himself to meet Zed's gaze past the mask. ] But I wouldn't wish for you to do something you'll regret afterwards. The moon's effects are making you desperate. Making you willing to tolerate something you normally wouldn't.
[If Zed were his logical self, he would quickly disengage after Avicebron's reasoning and polite decline. Right now, however, Zed only grows annoyed and decides to reduce what little distance is between them. His legs bracket Avicebron's as he leans in, casting an overbearing shadow while he cups his face between webbed hands.]
I can't accept such a vague rejection. [His voice is low and firm. No more caution now.
The strings continue to move until they find more pliant material hiding underneath the body armor that they can weave themselves through. While it requires some concentration to manipulate his blood, the rest of Zed's senses are trained on the Servant's reaction as he gains access to skin that's been so carefully hidden. He maps out the man's body once more, even going further to slide between his legs and along his cock. Again, it's unfortunate that there's only limited tactile feedback.]
[ Maybe he'd underestimated Zed's moonblessing symptoms. Avicebron exhales slowly when Zed closes the distance between them, about to offer some calm rebuke, but what instead leaves his throat is a startled grunt, his entire body stiffening -- he certainly didn't expect to feel those threads needling through his clothes.
His reactions are immediate and pretty unsubtle. Even if his face is hidden behind the mask, the way he squirms and shifts his legs says plenty. Being touched liked this under his body armor is somehow far more intense than simply being unclothed, and it takes him a long moment just to find any words. ]
... very well. [ His words come out hoarse despite his best efforts, and Avicebron takes a shuddering breath before continuing. His hand touches gently against Zed's forearm. ] If you're sure this is what you want, I'll indulge you. I don't mind. But ... I'd ask that you cover your eyes. Is that acceptable?
[ That way, Zed will have a little less to regret once he's sober. Hopefully.
A thread coils around the metallic socket to his leg, tight against his hip and the inside of his thigh, and Avicebron flinches. His next breath escapes with a low groan as he tries to duck his head in Zed's grasp, fighting to ignore the heat rising at the pit of his stomach. ]
[It's captivating to watch Avicebron to react the way he wants, to feel control over the loss of composure in someone he respects. The powerful realization that feeds back into his moonblessing, and a smile forms briefly before being snuffed out by the condition laid out. He's not worried about the man disappearing-- it just seems unfair at first. Almost like a joke because it's literally impossible to close his eyes completely. Covering with his hands would be completely inadequate, let alone the fact that he doesn't want to give up touching the Servant.
So Zed remains quiet before nodding once he's found his solution after some thought: his retreat from Avicebron's face and moves to his own. He digs his claws into the sides of his head to form a rudimentary blindfold from the blood he draws. It's an absurd and slightly painful idea, but Zed's very obviously willing to fulfill the request...And that's setting aside the fact that he's unsure of why it's needed in the first place.]
Is this alright? [The strings' movement halt briefly as Zed's concentration reorganizes for his loss of sight. (Maybe something of a reprieve for Avicebron, if he's really set on recollecting himself.) On the other hand, Zed's antennae begin to twitch more actively to compensate.]
Ah -- [ He'd planned on tearing a strip of fabric off his cloak. But, well. This works, too. ] ... I didn't mean for you to hurt yourself. But it will do. Thank you.
[ It was a somewhat selfish request, after all, even if his main priority is preserving Zed's dignity. At least it puts him at ease to know that Zed is willing to acquiesce, even in his desperate state, and Avicebron loosens just a touch of the tension in his body. And without that tension, the taut pull of those threads feels all the more vivid.
Zed might feel the ground tremble slightly beneath him, accompanied by a faint rumbling noise all around him; Avicebron touches gently at his chest to keep him calm. ]
I'm erecting a wall around us. I doubt anyone will stumble upon this place, but just in case.
[ It's said calmly enough, but Avicebron clears his throat afterward, hand tracing carefully down Zed's chest. He really does have a good body, youthful and well-trained. The type of physique that comes with much training, well worth admiring. All the more reason Zed deserves someone his equal. But it's only him for now, so he asks quietly, ]
[Despite experiencing the earth being manipulated for the golems he had destroyed, Zed tenses momentarily before Avicebron's words clarify the situation. His touch initially pacifies the instinct to become battle-ready, but the drag of fingertips downwards sends an expectant thrill through him. It's disproportionate reaction to a small stimulus, yet Zed can't deny the way he arches slightly into the touch. Just because he's been so eager to embrace Avicebron, doesn't mean he doesn't enjoy it himself.
The question catches him off-guard as well. His possessive mindset didn't actually assume for receiving attention beyond doling it out. He has to think on it. He mulls it over silently as his hands travel blindly, gliding up Avicebron's arms and neck until one has fingers curled into his hair while the other runs over the edges of the mask.]
Kiss me. Beyond that...anything you want.
[The strings, meanwhile, move less pointedly and switch to vague oscillating patterns of caressing. It's Zed's limit for now until he collects more data to establish a new spacial understanding-- sounds, vibrations, any sort of reaction from Avicebron that may clue him in on important points.]
backdated to Sanguis moon
Debating on sinking myself to the bottom of the ocean to best avoid mishaps with this moonblessing. I'm more reactive this time and at a loss over what else I can do.
[help me, sensei]
no subject
I suppose if anyone could survive being submerged for a prolonged time, it would be you. But I would still suggest that you refrain.
I assume you've contacted me because there is a way I can help you. What can I do for you?
[ The symptoms tend to differ from person to person, after all. Presumably, the treatments also differ accordingly. (At least, to some degree. Even if the bottom line is always the same.) ]
no subject
I don't have anything specific. I need advice, any wisdom will do. I feel like I'm fighting myself, and I can't think straight.
If the ocean doesn't work, maybe I should leave Lunatia by land. Have you been beyond the city?
no subject
Isolate yourself if you must, but you cannot realistically expect to leave the city every month. It would be an emergency measure at best.
By 'mishaps' I assume you mean the desire for intimacy. You're young, with a good physique. I can't imagine you would have difficulty finding someone willing to help you. As embarrassing as it can be, such is the way of this city, and nobody would condemn you for it.
no subject
-sensei, he only feels somewhat embarrassed.]Saving up for a sailboat doesn't seem like a bad idea now.
It's not just that. It feels like my blood is boiling. When I'm near other people, I feel like I might lash out any second. I don't think I could be intimate like this.
no subject
[ It's a joke. But after he sends it, it really sinks in that now is probably not the time for his droll sense of humor. ]
I apologize. I shouldn't be saying such things when you're suffering.
I don't believe indulging in violence is the best way to handle anger or frustration. But it is a necessary step at times. Would it be helpful to you if I created something you could fight without harming anybody? It may help you calm down.
no subject
Yes please. I would try anything to avoid hurting anyone unjustly.
no subject
Very well. Find a quiet, open space you can get to without difficulty, then send me the location. I will be there as soon as possible.
no subject
[The location Zed sends after some time is a more secluded clearing within Level 2's groves. Zed sits in a meditative posture and he looks otherwise serene until Avicebron arrives. As if flipping a switch, his whole body tenses as he looks up with a jerk of his head, like a predator spying a new target. A few tense seconds pass, and Zed forces an exhale while reigning himself in. He stands then, giving a bow to Avicebron:]
I owe you a debt, Caster.
no subject
Mm. Worry about that later.
[ Avicebron waves aside Zed's polite greeting, instead getting straight to work. He's brought along some pre-made golem cores, and kneels to the ground, pressing one into the dirt. Within moments, a golem made of dirt and rock emerges from the ground; Avicebron snaps his fingers, and it slowly lumbers towards Zed, eyes glowing dimly. ]
It will fight defensively, and I can create more if necessary. You've no need to hold back.
[ On a more selfish note, this is a good chance to observe Zed's abilities. A little side benefit to helping Zed out. A normal human would never stand a chance against his golems, but ... well, he'll have to see what Zed's capable of. ]
no subject
[...Makes sense why Caster calls himself such. Zed's more used to fighting trash golems than he cares to admit, but he has to wonder how strong an earthen one could turn out. He doesn't doubt that its durability is increased by magic. Otherwise, it wouldn't be a good opponent to beat on.
Zed summons forth a blood trident as the golem approaches. But rather than a smooth, instantaneous morphing, the blood comes out his hand as writhing tendrils that he forces into form. It feels good to have it out instead of suppressing the urge. And while sight and feel of his own blood does a bit to fulfill a some need in him, it doesn't ease him completely. Plus, there's a nice ring to hearing that he doesn't need to hold back.
His work with the trident is lightning quick as he lashes out at the golem's limbs, slices that would even cut steel cleanly. Then one hop away for distance, and Zed pulls his arm back to javelin his weapon at the golem's face, aiming for right between those glowing eyes. The moment the trident leaves his fingers, a burst of air explodes from it, propelling it faster and with more force to pierce.]
no subject
Impressive.
[ A low murmur under his breath as Avicebron immediately touches the ground once more, summoning another one -- this time with a longer incantation, the ground around him glowing before a golem strides forth. This one's darker in color, parts of it reinforced with twists of tree root.
He'd had a hunch that Zed's abilities would be far beyond that of a normal human, but this is even greater than what he expected. Of course, his own golems are greatly hampered by the cost of mana usage and the poor materials here, but he's still determined to rise to the challenge.
He'll just keep making better, longer-lasting ones until he finally finds one that will wear Zed out. ]
100 years later, also feel free to drop
However, pleasure from violence doesn't leave him completely mindless. When the Chroma drain from his powers begins to touch his senses, Zed recalculates and turns his attention back to Avicebron when the latest golem falls. The trident unravels into a fine threads that launch towards the man. If the violent streak were to continue, they would be meant to cleave through metal and flesh. Instead, they act more as bindings or good enough distractions for Zed to close in, reaching out with the intent to draw Avicebron closer by his waist. Logic(?) tells him that he needs more Chroma to fight, but the idea of keeping him close is an added bonus.
The only downfall is that Zed acts first before communicating his intent.]
no worries, you're good!
And in that instant, Zed ... attacks him?!
It's awfully undignified, but Avicebron lets out a startled grunt as those threads snap around his arms. And really, all he can do is steel himself for the incoming impact. He has no real combat prowess, and as a Servant, he should be able to survive an attack or two. Hopefully.
He doesn't weigh that much, and his strength is pretty negligible. Which means one good tug at the threads is all it takes to yank him forward right into Zed's grasp. Avicebron whaps right into Zed's chest, reflexively grabbing at his arms as he tries to figure out what the hell is going on.
The immediate warmth of moonlacing tingling at his palms just adds to the confusion. ]
no subject
It's a long minute to endure, but the fishman's brain finally kicks in and reminds him that this wasn't the original plan. The threads disappear in a blink, and Zed looks horrified at his behavior while he practically has to pry himself off of Avicebron. (There's a significant tinge of pink coloring his face too.)]
I-I'm so sorry! That-- I was thinking about Chroma levels, then...! [Then he ended up getting handsy with sensei. Not a great look.] Please forgive me!
no subject
And of course, in that state, his knees buckle the instant Zed lets go of him. Avicebron stumbles back a step before simply sitting on the ground; he needs a moment to compose himself before shaking his head. ]
... no -- there's nothing to forgive. [ His words sure sound a little stilted! But also a bit breathless. ] You caught me by surprise. That is all. You can't be blamed for acting on the moon's effects.
[ A deep inhale and slow exhale. It's fine, this is fine. He just needs a moment to calm down. Avicebron averts his gaze, touching absently at his mask. ]
Desperate or not, you shouldn't resort to someone like me. If you've worked off your aggression, you should seek out someone more suitable.
no subject
This doesn't compute-- that last statement even more so. Avicebron's words light a flickering hope and a tightness in his chest. Zed's not so sure what to do with either case, but he echoes quietly, cautiously:]
"Someone more suitable"...? I don't understand. [His fingers curl into his palms until his claws cut. The feeling and smell of blood is oddly reassuring despite it being his own.]
no subject
Avicebron nods, sitting up a little straighter. He deliberately keeps his tone of voice calm and level, just in case there's any lingering bloodlust that he needs to avoid setting off. ]
You're young and attractive. Earnest and good-natured. Most would be happy to have your company. Don't sell yourself short. [ He would have figured this much would be obvious, but maybe Zed just needs to hear it said out loud. Avicebron cants his head thoughtfully as he adds, ] ... mm, though if you're still feeling any aggression, it would be better to take it out on me. Despite how I seem, I'm more durable than most.
no subject
...You speak highly of me, yet you're only willing to accept my aggression, huh? [Not that he feels the need to fight right now...Call it a moment of limited clarity? Or reprioritizing. The strings of blood that flow out from Zed's clenched hands reach for Avicebron again, the real target of his current affliction-affection. They advance like vines, curling around and embracing his body all the way up to his neck. It's unfortunate he can't feel through them too. They're only meant to embody Zed's selfish thoughts, clinging rather than constrictive of movement
so far.]I find you suitable, Caster.
no subject
Not for the first time, he wonders why people here are so accepting. Perhaps his history would have been different, had he met such people in life -- ah, no, he shouldn't let his thoughts wander. Even if the coil of threads around his waist is making it hard to stay focused. ]
I can't pretend I'm not flattered by your ... attention. [ It's not like he can hide the slightly breathy quality to his voice, after all. Avicebron forces himself to meet Zed's gaze past the mask. ] But I wouldn't wish for you to do something you'll regret afterwards. The moon's effects are making you desperate. Making you willing to tolerate something you normally wouldn't.
no subject
I can't accept such a vague rejection. [His voice is low and firm. No more caution now.
The strings continue to move until they find more pliant material hiding underneath the body armor that they can weave themselves through. While it requires some concentration to manipulate his blood, the rest of Zed's senses are trained on the Servant's reaction as he gains access to skin that's been so carefully hidden. He maps out the man's body once more, even going further to slide between his legs and along his cock. Again, it's unfortunate that there's only limited tactile feedback.]
I can't let you go now that I have you.
no subject
His reactions are immediate and pretty unsubtle. Even if his face is hidden behind the mask, the way he squirms and shifts his legs says plenty. Being touched liked this under his body armor is somehow far more intense than simply being unclothed, and it takes him a long moment just to find any words. ]
... very well. [ His words come out hoarse despite his best efforts, and Avicebron takes a shuddering breath before continuing. His hand touches gently against Zed's forearm. ] If you're sure this is what you want, I'll indulge you. I don't mind. But ... I'd ask that you cover your eyes. Is that acceptable?
[ That way, Zed will have a little less to regret once he's sober. Hopefully.
A thread coils around the metallic socket to his leg, tight against his hip and the inside of his thigh, and Avicebron flinches. His next breath escapes with a low groan as he tries to duck his head in Zed's grasp, fighting to ignore the heat rising at the pit of his stomach. ]
no subject
So Zed remains quiet before nodding once he's found his solution after some thought: his retreat from Avicebron's face and moves to his own. He digs his claws into the sides of his head to form a rudimentary blindfold from the blood he draws. It's an absurd and slightly painful idea, but Zed's very obviously willing to fulfill the request...And that's setting aside the fact that he's unsure of why it's needed in the first place.]
Is this alright? [The strings' movement halt briefly as Zed's concentration reorganizes for his loss of sight. (Maybe something of a reprieve for Avicebron, if he's really set on recollecting himself.) On the other hand, Zed's antennae begin to twitch more actively to compensate.]
no subject
[ It was a somewhat selfish request, after all, even if his main priority is preserving Zed's dignity. At least it puts him at ease to know that Zed is willing to acquiesce, even in his desperate state, and Avicebron loosens just a touch of the tension in his body. And without that tension, the taut pull of those threads feels all the more vivid.
Zed might feel the ground tremble slightly beneath him, accompanied by a faint rumbling noise all around him; Avicebron touches gently at his chest to keep him calm. ]
I'm erecting a wall around us. I doubt anyone will stumble upon this place, but just in case.
[ It's said calmly enough, but Avicebron clears his throat afterward, hand tracing carefully down Zed's chest. He really does have a good body, youthful and well-trained. The type of physique that comes with much training, well worth admiring. All the more reason Zed deserves someone his equal. But it's only him for now, so he asks quietly, ]
Zed. What would you like me to do for you?
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The question catches him off-guard as well. His possessive mindset didn't actually assume for receiving attention beyond doling it out. He has to think on it. He mulls it over silently as his hands travel blindly, gliding up Avicebron's arms and neck until one has fingers curled into his hair while the other runs over the edges of the mask.]
Kiss me. Beyond that...anything you want.
[The strings, meanwhile, move less pointedly and switch to vague oscillating patterns of caressing. It's Zed's limit for now until he collects more data to establish a new spacial understanding-- sounds, vibrations, any sort of reaction from Avicebron that may clue him in on important points.]
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