In this world, Magic is Everything. All people, all races, are granted with the power to perform mystical and magical feats via grimories, mystical tomes granted to each and every child on their 15th birthday. Those blessed by the mana can have their names written down in legend.
Shattered Grimoires is the work of the mind(s) of Ardere & Shattered Grimoire's staff. All characters and content are copyright their creators, and may not be replicated without their creators' permission. Black Clover is owned by Yuki Tabata and published by Viz Shonen Jump. All images belong to their original owners. The theme you are currently viewing was made by Eliza of ElizaCodes exclusively for Shattered Grimoires.
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
"E-er, if you put it that way..." Hans was not expecting her to be so blunt about it. Of course that is what he meant, but hearing her say it so boldly messed with Hans' confidence a little. "U-uh..." All the poor guy could do was nod with a sheepish smile on his face. He couldn't even keep eye contact with her, the poor merc. Whether she was aware of it or not, Suna had the man wrapped around her fingers like some sort of enchantress...which he didn't seem to mind at all.
"Ha Ha very funny." Hans shifted his eyes to the side in mock annoyance. There appeared to be no end to her constant teasing. Hans was never really the type to tolerate people like that, but for Suna it felt like an exception could be made, especially since he doesn't seem bothered by it, and it instead caused his own inner sarcasm to come out. The question Suna asked after was a lot more serious however. Hans looked over to Suna, and started to blush in embarrassment. "Yeah..." He was now looking away, smiling shyly. "It wasn't every night...but yeah." Hans was such a mama's boy growing up, but with what the two have been through...it made perfect sense. "And yes...They had pictures."
While Hans continued to chow down on his food, he hadn't noticed the crumbs forming on his face. "Hmh?" Feeling a light tap on his shoulders, Hans swallowed his food and turned to face Suna, eyes widened at how close Suna was to him. She had said something, but the guy was a little distracted at the moment to notice at first. Their lips...they were so close. If she had gotten any closer they'd be brushing up against each other. Was she attempting to steal a kiss? If so...Hans was ready for it. With eyes closed, the man tilted his head a bit, ready for the lip locking action. But instead of her lips...he felt the woman's thumb brushing something off of him.
"There we go!"
Slowly opening his eyes, Hans looked very lost. "Wait..." The dark mage was definitely expecting something else to happen, but ended up putting it together that it was just more of her teasing. "Er, never mind..." The guy looked back at his food, and began eating again, looking slightly annoyed this time. He was going to have to get her back for this....But for now, there were more important things to discuss.
She has a point. Witches don't exactly have a good reputation, probably having to do with their place of origin and how secluded they keep themselves. Hans didn't really care about that stuff however. If he knew about Suna being a witch when they first met, it was doubtful that it would've changed anything. He didn't fall for the woman because of her race. He likes her...for being her. "I'm glad that I've met you too, Suna." A weak smile appeared on his face, but even with those words or her gentle hand on his, Hans couldn't keep the smile up for long, and soon the dreaded memories...and feelings of helplessness took over. Such negative and evil memories. They happened so long ago, but the memories still sting. Hans was about to experience another episode, but thanks to his breathing, and mostly Suna's comforting words and gentle touch, Hans was able to calm down. He didn't look Suna in the eyes however, a part of his ashamed of looking this weak around her again. So instead, he rose the glass up to try and shift this subject.
"No, not just me." The man placed the empty shot glass down before continuing. "This was a team effort after all." He then gestured to the plates. At this point his food was finished and his stomach pleased. "Omelette?" Hans looked genuinely curious now. "Aren't those eggs that have been folded? I don't think I've had that before. But we can try it." The merc gave a nod. Hans is more of an eggs, bacon, sausages...ham...and pancakes kind of guy, but again he'll never say no to new things...sometimes. As he thought more about omelettes, Hans saw his opportunity to revenge from the corner of his eye!
Hans couldn't help but smirk amusingly at Suna's flustered behavior. "That's for earlier..." His tone remained hushed. "Maybe it was both?" Hans shrugged before looking back at Suna, and while still in his moment of boldness, he attempted to lean in to claim the kiss he was so unfairly cheated out of earlier...but was interrupted, causing him to stop once more with a hint of puzzled annoyance. "A...game?" Did he have to remind her that he isn't a kid?
The merc sat back up properly and watched Suna retrieve...a large pitcher of water?
"For every five shots of water you drink, you get to kiss me. And if you finish the entire thing...I’ll dress up in that modelling outfit you like so much."
Hans looked at the pitcher with a hint of red on his face. Was it really that obvious that he liked the outfit so much? He then looked up to Suna with an eyebrow raised. "...You're...serious?" Hans seemed a little skeptical, but looked like he was thinking this through. His eyes went back to his shot glass then to the pitcher again. "No tricks?" Guess there was only one way to truly find out....and so the merc poured his first shot in and downed the water. He then repeated the action a second time then three more times, holding the shot glass with one hand, and the pitcher with the other. "First five down." Hans claimed, placing both glasses onto the table before facing the elf. "So..." The merc leaned over and attempted to give Suna a peck that didn't seem too extreme, but he still tried to make it last as long as the elf would let him.
There was still plenty of water left however which meant more kisses to go through. With that in mind, Hans started to silently wonder...just how deep he should try to go with each kiss?
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
Perhaps she should lessen up on her teasing. If she did not, Suna was afraid Hans would have a permanent stain of red on his face otherwise. His confidence level also felt a little shaky. Perhaps it would be wise to hold off teasing the poor guy to death. She could only imagine how he would repay her back for her little antics. Somehow, that excited her. Strange.
Her guesses about his mother were confirmed. "You were so lucky to have her." Suna bit back another sigh of envy. How lovely it must be to have someone like that, a continuous support and comfort in those earlier years growing up. But on second thought, Hans was a little bit like that. He grounded her, and had her back on so many occasions. She could only hope that she could return the favor.
At least she got him back once, but he made it difficult for her to do it again. He was too good at this, and the way his voice was lowered and hushed—it sent tingles all throughout her skin. She really needed to calm down, but her body was not getting the memo. In fact, it only warmed at every word he said, every touch he gave. Now she finally understood what the books said when one became drunk in love. W-Wait... Was that L-word even allowed here?
Thankfully, the topic changed to something less dynamic. "Folded eggs?" Suna almost snorted. That was the first time she heard it described like that. "Omelettes are much more than that!" She would show him just how fancy those so-called ‘folded eggs’ could become. But that could wait until the morning. There were other issues that were claiming her attention. Like her offer.
He was hesitating. Oh no, was this a bad idea? But then he looked serious. "No tricks." Suna held her hands up in surrender, and inwardly, heaved back a sigh of relief. Thank goodness he played along. More importantly, it was good that he did not try to bargain with her. He looked fine at the moment, but there was no knowing what he was like when drunk. If he truly finished the whole pitcher of water, that would be enough to flush the alcohol in his system and would ease the headache sure to come in the morning. At the very least, too much water could not hurt anyone...right?
Unfortunately, that meant she would have to carry out what she said. What was she thinking, offering him that option? Suna wanted to groan at herself, but she already said it, and she would make good on her words. The young woman watched him quickly down the five shots with ease. "Hmm...I should have said seven...or ten..." But her second thoughts were cut off by his lips on her. He had apparently wasted no time claiming the promised reward. It was just a soft peck, but she had tasted the masculine presence on him, and the woman in her stirred.
Assuming that he would take another five shots of water, the blue-haired femme would tilt her head and go in for a deeper kiss. This time, she experimented with moving her lips a little bit more, molding into whatever his mouth was doing. Her fingers came up to brush the side of his face, tracing that rugged jawline with soft and slow movements. She held it for only as long as he did, letting him take control. It was his reward, after all.
As they parted, Suna’s eyes fluttered open. Her lips now a rosy shade and slightly more plump than before. "How..." She breathed, an unfinished question more to herself than anything. How was he affecting her so much? She licked her lips, and could taste the faintest trace of the sake. Her lightweight body could not handle alcohol, so that was why the elf usually did not drink. She also never understood why anyone would be attracted to the stinging and burning taste, but from Hans’ lips, it was bearable. Good, even.
She blinked, shaking herself out of her momentary daze. "I...I’ll start on the dishes while you take the third round." She gathered the bowls and utensils and brought them over to the sink. "And no cheating!" She called over her shoulder. As she started washing the dishes, she could still feel his presence in the room behind her. Who knew what his eyes were doing...
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
Hans picked up on the hint of envy in Suna's tone. How selfish of the merc. He went on and on about his mother, but didn't think once about how it'd make the elf feel since she claimed she hasn't grown up without a mother. It also made the man appreciate his mom more for being in his life. "You're not wrong." Hans then calmly made his way over to Suna, trying to get a hold of one of her hands, intertwining his fingers with her own. "But I'm lucky to have you in my life too." He claimed with a sincere smile, gently placing his forehead against hers.
On the matter of breakfast....
The merc could've swore that omelettes were just what he described, folded eggs. This made it obvious that he had very little experience with that dish, made even more apparent by how Suna reacted. "Hmm...well, I guess I'll be looking forward to it...tomorrow." Hans added, blinking a few times. He still had no idea what to expect, but part of him was thankful that he seemed to be wrong. Just plain old folded eggs wouldn't cut it for someone like him! But this will have to wait until the morning...since there were now other manners to attend to.
Hearing Suna's little comment, Hans couldn't help buy crack a smirk at it. With the amount of drinking experience he has gained, taking shots was almost child's play to Hans, and the fact that it's just water made things even easier for him. Before she could finish her little comment, Hans sneaked in to grab his first reward. The kiss was innocent, just the pressing of lips yet it still left the man wanting more. After a few seconds, he'd break from the kiss and look into Suna's captivating blue eyes, their noses brushing briefly against each other as he slowly backed away. "Five more shots..." Hans looked at her for a bit before turning to grab the pitcher and his shot glass. As he poured the water into the glass, Hans had a playful yet wanting smile on his face.
Looking back at Suna, Hans raised the glass before downing it. With a satisfied sigh, the man picked up the pitcher and did it four more times. As the last drop of water from the fifth shot left the glass and into Hans' mouth, the merc placed them back on the table, and stepped over to Suna. "Maybe you should've doubled the shots..." The guy said as he gently placed a hand against her cheek. "Then I could finish this faster...." He added in a whisper before drawing his face in, bringing the two into another kiss. Just like the first, the kiss started out innocent...but then the merc took notice of Suna's parting lips. It caused the man to open one of his eyes half way, not expecting this...but welcomed it anyway. He had done the same, following the elf's rhythm. With both of their mouths opened, the kiss deepened, and Hans was able to get a taste of what he experienced back at Silva.
The man moved in a bit closer, closing his eye again, but managed to stop himself from going further and parted this kiss. He still had some water to go through after all...unfortunately.
Being in a bit of a daze as well, Hans didn't pick up on what Suna was saying at first until she walked off to the sink with the bowls and such. "Yeah...I mean...y-yeah." Hans blinked a few times like he were coming out of a dream. "N-no promises." Hans jested, letting out a light chuckle. Returning to his seat, Hans was just about to pick up the pitcher until he heard the sink turn on. The merc's eyes wandered to the elf as she had her back turned to him. The guy was once again mesmerized by the elf's slim, and attractive figure, his eyes slowly scanning her up and down...their final destination being her rear once again.
The man just wanted to get up, and....
Drink more water!
Exhaling out of his nose, Hans focused on the water and downed another five shots. He then placed the glass back on the table...a little harder than normal but not hard enough to break the glass thankfully.
Whether Suna was finished with the dishes or not, Hans would leave the table and make his way over to her. "Hey..." The guy called out, and as he approached the elf from behind "I'll help you with those...later." Hans would whisper if there were still dishes left. He'd then lean his head over a bit, and place a hand gently on Suna's chin, trying to turn her head to face his. The man then went in for another kiss. He was addicted to those sweet lips of her...wanting to taste more. With their lips still locked, Hans would turn Suna to fully face him, his hands resting around her.
Getting deeper into their "makeout session" Hans started to move, potentially backing Suna up against one of her counters. Not letting that get in his way, the dark mage attempted to lift the elf up and sat her on the top of it.. He continued to kiss her, stopping a few seconds for air before continuing. If she hadn't stopped him already, Hans would slowly part from the kiss and begin to stare longingly at her.
Never....never has Hans been so bold...and he would've possibly went for more...if it wasn't for one thing.
"Th-that was...I...Where's your...restroom?" A combination of just now realizing what he was doing...and all the water and sake he had drank. If Suna pointed him in the right direction, Hans would just give a hesitant nod and back away. "R-right..." He was now making his way to the bathroom, speed walking a little...but not before glancing at the pitcher.
He still had at least one set of shots left...
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
He had said something in between the two kisses, but she was too much in a daze to respond. That longing look in Hans’ eyes made her breath hitch, and something stirred within her. The craving within her was a little frightening, but the fervor quickly overcame any misgivings. The second time started off sweet, like before, but slowly turned into something more. Though the young woman was inexperienced, she was quickly learning how to best adjust and adapt to her partner.
Her cheeks warmed as his hands enveloped them, even though she should be used to it by now. Would she ever stop blushing? Probably not. She could not get used to the sensation of those gentle hands caressing her face, and she was sure she was not the only one feeling the heat that rippled between them. It seemed to affect the man as well, as she heard his heavy breathing and her own ragged ones. Even as they pulled away, she could see that he enjoyed it.
She had gotten up to do the dishes, just an excuse to catch her breath and steady her heartbeat. The elf felt tingly all over, and all her senses were heightened. Even now, as she washed the dishes, she could hear the mercenary pouring water into his shot glass and downing one after the other. Her mind subconsciously listened to the number of times he filled it up, her body buzzing in anticipation as he finished the fifth one.
Then she heard him walking over to her, no doubt to claim the third kiss. "I'm not done yet..." she started to protest, until she felt his presence envelop her. Suna gasped a little when she felt his body press in behind her, and felt the toned frame against her back. "Oh!" She inhaled sharply. She had not expected to affect the man so strongly.
His hand was now guiding her lips to meet his own, and the dish Suna had been holding slid back to the sink, but thankfully it did not break. She allowed herself to be turned around, so she could kiss him properly. Oh, he tasted so strong and powerful, just like how a man should be. Good heavens, she could get addicted to him. Her hands were still wet from the washing, but now her fingers traced their way from his cheeks down to his neck, leaving a wet and cool trail behind.
His hands had slipped lower, like how he did back on the outskirts of town. Only this time, there was no chance of discovery from unwelcome eyes. Wherever he touched, her skin burned and shivered at turns. All she could think about was the man in front of her, stealing her breath away like there was no tomorrow. It seemed like he wanted to dominate, and gladly, she let him do so. Slender fingers were now entwined in his hair, gently massaging his scalp and tangling themselves in those dark locks of his.
As Suna let him explore her, she took the liberty to do the same. Her hands caressed those broad shoulders, feeling the warmth and muscles underneath her searching fingers. The female ran her hands up and down his back, feeling the sturdy physique and pulling him closer. She had to tiptoe a little to reach his mouth, until he lifted her up and one of the counters. Her legs instinctively wrapped themselves around his waist, welcoming him closer.
As they pulled away, she could only breathed out his name. "H-Hans..." Her tone was more breathy and lower than usual, though tinged with wonder at what they had just shared. She untangled her fingers from his hair, and bashfully wiped her now ruby-red lips with the back of her hand. Her breaths came in heavy now, and her chest heaved up and down as she caught her breath. They were so close, and his eyes glowed with an intensity that both captivated and drew her in.
"Restroom...is over there...in the back..." The elf waved at a general motion of where it was. Then he nodded and left, and Suna’s eyes followed him. At the sudden absence, she could feel the lack of warmth, and she rubbed her arms. She was not cold, just...extremely flustered...and in awe. As the mercenary did his business in the restroom, the blue-haired fae slipped down from the counter, and had to hold on to it to steady herself. Her body felt weak all over, but her spirit had been strengthened, if anything.
Then she finally heard the sound of running water, and quickly turned to the sink tap off. He had captured her attention and senses so thoroughly that she had not even thought to turn the faucet off before he caught her. She glanced over at the pitcher of water. It would be time for her to change soon.
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
Hans made his way to where Suna gestured to, and didn't dare to look back. He looked almost stiff as a board when he walked, nearly tripping on his own feet, feeling so awkward now...and hot.
Making it to the restroom, Hans closed the door behind him, and once he did, the man leaned his back against the door and too a deep breathe with eyes closed. "Man..." is all Hans could say, finding it hard to put how he was currently feeling into words. With another exhale out of his nose, Hans opened his eyes and stepped over to the toilet to relive himself of all the fluids he had ingested.
Once that was done, Hans let out a refreshed sigh before closing the lid and flushing the toilet. With how caught up he was...with Suna, Hans didn't realize how badly he needed to go until he was finished. Any possible influence the sake had on him was nothing he needed to worry about now thanks to the water. As he thought of that, the man chuckled lightly. That definitely had to be part of Suna's plan. He now stepped over to the sink and turned the water on. As he got the soap and started to lather his hands, Hans slowly looked up at the mirror, focusing on his lips. He then noticed a bit of saliva running down the side of his mouth. He looked almost surprised to see it, but knew full well how it got there, but was it his own...or hers?
Finished with his hand washing, Hans dried his hands on his clothes before looking at his reflection again. He licked his somewhat reddened lips before wiping the saliva off with his sleeve. He stared at the mirror as it stared back. There was nothing else on his mind now besides what had just happened between him and her out there. He thought about every little detail from how his lips felt against hers. It felt so dirty...yet so enticing. He could still feel the elf's soft curves in his hands. He wasn't the only one who was doing some exploring neither. The way Suna was feeling up his body, it wanted Hans to press on more. These thoughts made Hans' heart pound, leading him to place his hand against his chest. His hand was almost vibrating to the beat, and even though he's apart from her, the warmth was still there. But, the man was so caught up in these feelings...that he didn't feel flustered at all...nor hesitant.
"Just five more shots..." Hans mumbled to himself before stepping out.
Making his way back to the main area, Hans just stood there and looked at Suna if she were still there. The man was silent, but it wasn't an awkward one, at least not on his end. He then looked to the near empty pitcher, and walked over to it. The dark mage picked up the shot glass first with one hand, then the pitcher with the other. He looked at one after the other before looking back at Suna. With a smirk on his face, Hans lowered the shot glass, and...started to chug what was left from the pitcher. He needed to quench his thirst...and we're not talking the water.
With the pitcher completely empty, Hans released his lips from the pitcher with a bit of water running down the side of his mouth.. Placing the pitcher on the table, Hans gave the elf a triumphant and borderline seductive looking smile. "Water's finish." the man claimed while gesturing at the empty pitcher. If she wasn't close enough already, Hans would make his way over to Suna once again, and tilted his head a bit to steal another kiss. It was deep, but not as deep as the last one nor did it last as long. Once he parted from her again, the man's lips lingered around one of her elven ears. "Now...to keep up your end of the deal." Hans whispered before planting a slow, and gentle kiss against her cheek.
The sake may not be an issue for him anymore...but something was certainly still influencing the dark mage.
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
Suna quickly finished up the dishes in the sink, needing to do something, anything, to momentarily ground her back to reality. Those kisses had left her head reeling and her heart thumping. The way his hands moved and explored her—she shivered. There was no way she could look at him the same way again, not without remembering how he touched her.
As she finished washing the last bowl and utensil, she heard Hans walk back into the room. Immediately, her body hummed in expectation. She would be lying if she said she was not a little frightened at how strongly and intensely her body was responding to the dark mage’s presence. She quickly wiped her hands dry, and turned around to see him smirk at her and...chug down the rest of the water in the pitcher. Her eyes widened, but watched in fascination at how his throat moved as he finished it off.
Then he shot her a smile that made her weak at the knees. How did he do that to her? His smile had grown bolder. It was more confident, more...attractive? He had always looked handsome and attractive, but he had somehow become more enticing now. She did not resist when he came over and dominated her lips once again, though she had to wrap her arms around him to keep herself from melting to the floor. She made a little noise at the back of her throat in protest when he drew back.
"Now...to keep up your end of the deal."
His whisper in her ear made her flush. It was true that elven ears were more sensitive, both to sound and to touch. In addition, for a sound mage like her, her hearing was also naturally more attuned to her surroundings...meaning that his voice affected her more so. She put on a mock pout and attempted to grumble. "Fine, fine. I hear you."
As soon as he released her, she would distangle her arms from his neck. "Be right back." She murmured, planting a soft peck on the side of his neck. After leaving the front room, she would turn the lamps on in the back room, illuminating the area in a soft glow. She climbed up the stairs to the loft above her library, where her bedroom was. Opening her closet, she took out the outfit. Despite thinking she would never wear it again, she had kept it, and now, she was glad she did.
She changed quickly, wanting to get back to Hans as soon as possible. But before she left, she looked at herself in the mirror, double checking her appearance and readjusting the crop top and short skirt. There. Just like back in the modelling studio. The blue-haired female in the reflection smiled back at her. Her hair was tied up in the back, but now she loosened it and let fall freely. She quickly ran a brush through her long tresses, noting how its length was at her waist now. A trim would be due soon.
Then she noticed how red her lips were. Regardless of what the man claimed, he knew how to use his mouth. Everywhere he touched made her skin burn...in a good way. She exhaled softly. She rather enjoyed dressing up for her man, though this seemed more exciting when it was just the two of them.
Assuming he was still waiting in the front room, Suna would call out softly to him. "Come to the back room. Oh, and close your eyes." She would wait until he entered the back room, then quickly make her way downstairs. Assuming he kept his eyes closed, she would walk up in front of him, but stopped a few steps away. "You...you can open your eyes now..."
A bout of shyness suddenly overcame her, and her head turned to the side. With one hand, she rubbed her bare arm, not daring to meet the mercenary’s eyes. Where was the glowing confidence from before? It took all her willpower to not shrink back and try to cover up all that bare skin. Her mouth suddenly felt dry, and she licked her lips. Perhaps she should have drank some of that water...
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
For Hans, it was both cute and a little triumphant to hear Suna's little grumble, along with seeing that pout of hers. For the most part, it felt like that the elf has been getting the upper hand over Hans when it comes to her teasing and mischievous behavior. But the guy was able to best her now, make the poor elf witch feel all flustered.
After feeling that quick peck against his cheek, Hans lifted his hand up and pressed it against the same area. With his bold smile shrinking a little, Hans gave Suna a nod before watching her walk off. The dark mage was half tempted to follow Suna back there, but even with these urges, he still knew that it wouldn't be right to intrude. But now his mind was filled with Suna not only in that revealing outfit...but her without it. No...no he mustn't sink further into the temptation. The outfit was his reward...nothing more. But those kisses...He needed more....more than just that.
"Get it together, Hans..." The merc mumbled to himself, shaking his head. He then took a seat at the table to wait, picking up his grimoire, and started to read it as a distraction, but it wasn't a really good one. With his mind still wandering, Hans closed his spell book and placed it on the table. He then placed his arms over the grimoire and lowered his face into it, trying to fight his impatience, but the light tapping of his foot against the ground proved that this was a hard challenge for him. The guy lifted his head up a few seconds later and lifted up his sheathed sword, swinging it around a little in the air with one hand.
"Come to the back room. Oh, and close your eyes."
After hearing that, Hans paused and nearly dropped his sword, fumbling it around in his hands like he did with that flower, except it ended up hitting the ground...
The man looked at his sword with a sort of apologetic look on his face. "Y-yeah. On my way." Hans called out before placing his sword neatly against the chair. If his blade had a mind of its own, it would certainly be scolding the dark mage right about now...
Hans was now making his way to the illuminated backroom until he made it to some stairs. The man then took notice of Suna's little library. She really wasn't kidding when she said she likes reading. No doubt there will be some books there that will catch Hans' attention, but for now, he had to prepare himself for something else entirely. With the sound of footsteps approaching, Hans immediately looked up, but before the elf was in view, the merc remembered something that he nearly forgot. "C-crap." He muttered before quickly closing his eyes. He looked up in the general direction of where he heard the footsteps, and could now hear them climbing down the stairs. With each step, it felt like Hans' heart started to beat faster. She's almost here... The footsteps were getting closer and closer, until...
"You...you can open your eyes now..."
Hans has the all clear now. He could've shot his eyes right open, but it was like his body was making him open them slowly a combination of his nerves getting to him...and wanting to savor this. Slowly, bits of Suna were growing visible to the man until his dark eyes were fully open, giving him a clear view of the shy elf...in that familiar crop top and dangerously short skirt. There it is, the prize that Hans "fought" hard for. Despite having seen her in it already, this still felt brand new to Hans, seeing his woman like this...in private this time. There were no camera flashes, nor flamboyant photographers. Just him...and her...
"S-Suna..." Hans stepped closer, his eyes lingering on the elf's body. "You're...you're very beautiful..." Another step taken. "...and...so sexy." He then looked up into her wonderful blue eyes. She truly is the perfect blend in Hans' eyes, the best of both worlds. Once he was close enough, the merc reached out but with a bit of hesitance at first. He rested both hands on her cheeks. He planted another kiss on the elf before slowly lowering his hands down, exploring her body once more, except this time he could feel more skin, more of the elf's warmth. "N-never...let anyone tell you otherwise..." He added, looking back at Suna before his eyes traveled downwards.
If she was allowing the man to do all of this, it started to make Hans feel a little bad. She trusted him so much with...her. He needed to do the same.
"U-uh...here..." Hans would let go and back away a bit so that he could lift his shirt off of his body. As it went over his head, the merc's bare chest was once again visible for all of Suna to see. His abs, his muscles...his scars that told a story that was anything but pleasant. He may not have his modeling outfit with him, but he hoped that this would suffice. He then stepped forward if Suna hasn't done so already, and let her explore his body. If she ended up doing that, Hans would start to grow hot from the woman's touches. The urges have resurfaced...stronger than ever.
"You're so..." Before he could finish this thought, Hans just leaned over and attempted to bring the two into another kiss, wasting no time with making this one deep. His body was pressed against hers, their exposed flesh and warmth. Shifting himself and her around, Hans backed up and sat down on the stairs, placing the woman on his lap without breaking the kiss. Hans wasn't exactly sure what he was doing...but it felt so right.
This heat continued to rise...running the risk of boiling over.
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
While walking down, she had heard something clatter to the ground, and it made her raise her eyebrows. What was going on down there? Did something happen? She was about to ask if he was all right, but then he called out, saying that he was on his way. So he was fine. Good. Relax, Suna. She took a few deep breaths and let them out slowly. Easier said than done. Her heart was still beating fast and hard from their session from before.
As she stepped out to look over the banister, she saw that the mercenary was down there, with his eyes closed as requested. Just seeing him waiting for her made her quicken her movements, though she kept her footsteps light. It helped that she had taken off her shoes as well, so she was barefoot. Unfortunately, the outfit had not come with those long thigh-high socks, so she just went without. It definitely felt a little chilly with her bare arms, midsection, and legs...but she knew Hans could warm her up soon.
Now the elf stood there in front of him, all shy and flustered and unable to meet him in the eye. That is, until he said her name in that dangerous low voice of his. Blue eyes finally met their dark counterparts, and her curiosity of seeing his reactions overtook her bashfulness. She saw him eying her all over, and her breath stuttered. Her blush deepened when he stepped closer and uttered words any female would love to hear. "I...I..." There was nothing she could say to that. She was used to being called cute, but beautiful and sexy? That was on another level.
Suna shivered when he approached, feeling the masculine presence overwhelm her. His hands started off innocently enough, on her face. Even as he stole her breath away with a kiss, she was very aware of his hands roaming down, but unlike before, there was no barrier between her bare skin and his warmth. Her body leaned towards him, her breathing ragged before they have even started yet. Her chest was already heaving up and down in anticipation. For one who had never experienced a man’s touch before, she found it intoxicating...and incredibly alluring.
"But you’re the sexy one..." But then he was bringing her in. She sucked in a breath. Just like before, she tensed a little, then relaxed as she got used to the feeling. This was a different urge that she could not contain. Nor did she want to. It seemed like he shared that feeling, judging by the way his mouth and hands moved. Fiercely, almost hungrily. And she thought they had a pretty filling dinner.
But then she noticed how much he was wearing. It did not seem very balanced, considering that so much of her was bare to him. "Not fair," she whispered, tugging at his shirt. If he could touch her, so should she. Thankfully, he seemed to have the same idea, and her eyes roamed downwards when his upper body came into view. The soft light in the room did well to enhance his physical assets, showing off that toned frame that any Greek god would kill to have.
"Oh..." She breathed. For a moment, she was content to just look and admire the work of art before her. Then, slender fingers reached out to explore him, starting from his throat and lightly tracing and swirling lines down to his abs. Her hands splayed out against the bare chest, feeling the contours of those muscles. She leaned in and softly kissed the hollow of his throat. He tasted wild and unrestrained, a hint of sweat and all man. Emboldened, her lips went towards those scars, softly pressing and caressing them as if she could kiss them away. Whatever hurts he had before, she wished she could erase them all away.
Then his lips found hers, and it went deep. Now she was flush against his body. It made her stomach flutter with invisible butterflies, and somewhere, a part of her ached. Ached for more of him. The young woman let herself be moved, and soon found herself sitting sideways on his lap. Somehow, they had made it to the bottom of the stairs, though she did not know how...nor did she care.
His lips attacked her again, and this time, she was more prepared. Her arms wrapped themselves around his neck, her fingers tangling in his hair again. She shifted her weight on his lap. For a split second, when he broke the kiss, she wondered if she had done something wrong. However, he came back in again, but rougher and fiercer, and she forgot everything else. It was like she had awakened something else in him, like a beast, and she reveled in it. To think that she, a short and small elf, was capable of making a man look like this... Then it finally clicked. A darker smile grew on her face. So this was the power of seduction.
"H-Hans..." Her voice was low, breathy and husky almost. "W-We...we should...s-stop..." She was feeling light-headed. "I need...some air..." Actually, more than just some. Her blood pressure must be skyrocketing now, and it was making her dizzy. At least, that was what she thought.
Lest he think she was stopping because he did anything wrong, she wrapped her arms around him tightly and buried her face in the crook of his neck and shoulder. She sighed deeply in contentment. "Mmm, you’re so hot." She murmured. It was true both figuratively and literally, but she left it open for his own interpretation. For now, she just wanted to snuggle against him.
After a few moments of comfortable silence, Suna lifted her head and planted one more kiss on his forehead. "Thank you." She whispered. Not only had he just given her the experience of a lifetime, he had also awakened the woman in her. She got up to adjust her top and smooth down her skirt. If he was still looking on, she would smack his arm playfully.
"Greedy, aren’t you?" There was a blanket on the couch near them, and Suna used that to cover herself. Then she went back over to the mercenary and tugged his hand, wanting him to get up. "Come on. I’ll even let you pick what book to read."
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
"Not fair,"
Hans couldn't help but smirk a little at Suna's little comment. She tugged on the man's clothes, showing that she wanted him to take it off just as badly, wanting a better look of what was underneath. Already thinking the same thing, the sly merc took his shirt off, leaving the elf speechless. He quietly let her hands explore every bit of the man's muscular build. A curious look replaced the man's smirk the moment Suna leaned in to...kiss a part of his neck. Chills ran down the man's spine as a slight gasp escaped his lips. He was not expecting her to explore his body...with her lips, but it was all the more welcoming...and alluring.
Then came the gentle kisses...against his scars as if she were trying to heal him. All of these touches...the stimulation. Hans couldn't fight his urges any longer and just went in for that kiss...leading the two to the bottom of the stairs, with the elf now on the man's lap...
With her fingers tangled in his hair, it caused Hans to tighten his grip on Suna's waist. Her actions were less submissive, as if she were trying to overpower the dark mage...and he loved it...the tug of war over dominance...It was like the little playful challenges they've done before, but more personal...and very intimate.
The guy then saw a much darker...more seductive look on Suna's features. She looked almost like an entirely different person. What was he doing to her...and what was she doing to him?
"H-Hans...W-We...we should...s-stop..."
Hans blinked slowly as they started to die down, looking like he had just woken up, and had no idea what was happening. "O-Oh..." Hans was currently trying to calm down, and figure out what happened. "Y-yeah...Me too..." The man appeared a little disappointed, but he was also worried that he might've did something wrong, overstepped any boundaries. "Suna...I-I'm..." He was just about to go in for an apology until he was embraced, feeling the elf's head against him. That alone was enough to make him feel relieved. Slowly he brought one hand over her body and the other around her head. "So are you." He whispered, kissing the top of the elf's head. Hans could honestly sit like this with her for hours, but the sound mage had other plans.
She then thanked the man for what they have just shared, giving him a light peck. Words were escaping the poor guy again, not knowing what to say. A simple you're welcome wouldn't suffice, but still was at a loss for words. "This was...wow..." He could've done so much better than that...but unfortunately, the man wasn't great with words. "Whatever we just did...I'm glad it was with you..."
Watching Suna get up, Hans' eyes started to wander again, but he was less subtle, and only stopped after he felt that playful slap. "Can't help it..." Hans claimed as he gestured at the elf. "You look so...hot in that. Kinda hard to ignore." Hans claimed, crossing his arms and nodding his head in a jokingly sage like manner. Then Suna covered up all her revealing parts with a blanket. "Hey, was that really necessary?" The man gave a mock frown before getting up. After what happened, he felt a little more comfortable...and playful.
Now it looks like they were going to get their eyes off of each other, and into some books. "Sure...Just no picture books." The man jested, most likely following Suna to her little library. It was probably for the best for the two to calm down and do something that was a lot less...hands on....for now.
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
Suna would have drooled all over him if he had given her the time. But then again, she did not protest when he dragged her over and completely dominated her. She liked all the sounds he made, and it made her want to discover what other ways she could get him to make that noise. But it was difficult when his hands were distracting her so expertly, and touching all the right spots that made her arch her back and curl her toes. The more he explored her, the more she trembled, overcome with these unfamiliar but welcomed sensations.
The femme did not know how she was caught up in this tangle of tongues, but she enjoyed it. It was a different kind of fighting, not with swords or words, but a tug of war with tongues. As they pulled apart every so often to catch a lungful of air, Suna would change up the rhythm. Sometimes she pulled away and peppered him with butterfly touches, sometimes with more intensity and passion. On those more intense moments, she pushed him back, aiming to angle his head back a little so she could kiss him more thoroughly.
Now, she kissed the edge of his mouth, then his chin, then slowly down to his neck. She ran her hands all over him, feeling the delicious heat of his bare skin felt under her sensitive fingers. She could feel all his longing and yearning, and she responded in kind. It was nothing but the two of them, sharing a part of themselves with the other. He had been gentle at first, but she wanted more.
Thankfully, he obliged, and the combination of his actions and kisses were too much. "Mmm..." If she was not so intoxicated in the moment, she would have blushed in embarrassment at her messy state. But she could not help it. She was like putty in his hands, and did not want it any other way.
He had pulled away to lock eyes with her. It was such a sizzling sensation, with him watching her body respond and react to his touches. Her blue eyes were clouded with euphoria, and her lips were parted slightly as she panted at all the burning passion she was drowning in. She bit down on her lip, eyes fluttering half-shut. He was taking her apart, layer by layer, literally and figuratively. If only this could go on forever.
It could, if she was not running out of air. And stamina.
She would have to build up some endurance on that, but for now, she needed a few moments to regain her bearings. Or a few minutes. Or a few hours. She had thrown her arms around him, and he was kissing her head oh so sweetly. As she got up, she had to fan herself, a silly little smile on her face. She would be lying if she did not feel hot and a little sweaty after their little...exercise.
"Are you sure you haven’t done this before?" The elf jutted a hip at him and threw him an almost sultry look. She ran her tongue over her lower lip and tasting a faint trace of the mercenary. That was something she would not forget. All she could see and smell and taste was him.
Then, when he mockingly disapproved of the blanket, she batted her eyelashes playfully. "Yes, it’s necessary...until you learn how to control your eyes." There were other things she could have added, but decided not to push him anymore. At least the beast seemed sated...for now.
The atmosphere had lightened up after that heavy session, and Suna was relieved that he seemed more relaxed around her. "Hey, what’s wrong with pictures?" Though she agreed with him. "So, what did you think of the tree?" She waved a hand back to where they were just at. It was probable that he did not even notice before, but the stairs they had been sitting on were wrapped in a swirling pattern around the tree trunk. It also served as a support column to her bedroom upstairs. Right below it, her precious collection of books.
"Hmmm, so what do you want to read?" She was making her way through the shelves, her head slightly cocked to the side as she thumbed through the titles. Assuming he would answer and give her a genre, the elf would nod and kneel down to the floor. She grabbed one from the lowest shelf. Then she would grab his hand and pull him over to the couch. "You can sleep here later, but sit here first." She patted the spot next to her.
Realizing that he was still shirtless, Suna pursed her lips. It was a little...distracting. "Here," she shifted the blanket over so half of it could drape over his back. "Can’t let you catch a cold." She flashed him a bright smile before drawing her knees up and snuggling against him. Then she opened the book and started to read...
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
Suna wasn't the only one feeling hot and sweaty by the end of their little...session. Hans' body was glistening with sweat, heat still radiating a bit from his body. What the two had just shared was...intense, and hard to put into words. After hearing the elf's question, Hans immediately threw his hands up in defense like he did back in the forest. "I-I haven't..." The man claimed, that confidence he had going for him starting to die down some. "This is all new to me." He started to lower his hands back to his lap. During all of that, the merc was letting his urges take control. He gave in to his temptations and instincts for that moment. He felt like a different person then...but it was all him.
The dark mage blushed lightly at the sultry look Suna was giving him, making him just realize something. "I could ask you the same thing, you know?" the man gave a smirk. The way she worked her body against his, how her hands...and mouth explored the man's body, she was like some kind of seductress, and the merc was her latest victim. He then brushed his hand into his hair, watching the way the elf licked her lips. "Hmm, guess that means I know what I'm doing...for the most part." Hans added. Although he was quick to defend himself, the man couldn't help but feel some pride over it. It means he's on the right track.
Hans let out a mock sigh at Suna's comment, looking disappointingly at the towel covering her now. "Guess I'll have to settle with looking into those beautiful blue eyes..." Hans claimed as he looked up at her face. "Unless you're going to start wearing glasses too?" Hans jested, giving the woman a mock frown. With the urges nearly gone, there was a comforting feeling left behind. Hans felt even more connected to Suna now, finding it easier to talk to her, and even joke around. But now it was time to do some reading.
"If you're into picture books, I won't judge." Hans replied with a shrug. "Just don't expect me to get you any little juice boxes or animal crackers while I'm out." Another playful smirk was on the man's face. It felt so weird for him to be this open, but around Suna it felt so right. He then blinked a few time at her question. "What tre-" Before he finished, Hans followed the woman's gesturing hand to the stairs they were just making out on. It took him a few seconds to process it but once he did, the man's eyes lit up. There really was a tree there...and it looked magnificent. The stairs were apart of it, and it was obvious that the huge plant was supporting part of the house. "You weren't kidding..." The tree really looked like it belonged.
Suna's collection of books was another interesting view. Although he wasn't much of a book person, Hans could respect how each book is neatly shelved and the overalls neatness of this room. As for what he wanted to read...
"Uhh..." Hans walked around, looking at the spine of each book. None of the titles he really recognized. The man really did need to experience the wonderful world of books more. The last time he had read something, it was something about ruins, and it was related to a job he needed to do.
Hans was just about to pick up a random book and hope for the best until he noticed a title that was actually familiar. "Oh, this is..." Hans crouched down to take the book from its area. Turning to look at the front cover, Hans' suspicions were proven correct. "Lost Souls..." the man repeated the title. It had a silhouette of a boy, and his dog looking at the sunrise over a mountain. Turning to face Suna, Hans was still looking down at the book with a nostalgic smile.
"This is a book my mother used to read to me. It doesn't have any pictures...but the story is interesting." He said, now looking at the back of the book. "It's about a boy and his dog who find themselves lost, and end up going on a journey to find their way home. They even meet a lot of interesting characters along the way." Hans was once again looking at the front cover, a light chuckle escaping him. "There's this one part where they come across this man who loses his left shoe to a group of nymphs, and he has to-" Looking up at Suna, Hans noticed how much he was blabbering once again and found his cheeks lit up in embarrassment. "U-uh...It's a good...book..."
The two ended up finding themselves on the couch Suna was going to give the man to sleep on, but before they could open the book, the elf wrapped the blanket she had around Hans as well. "Hm?" It was then he noticed he was still without his shirt. "A-Ah...thanks..." With a warm smile, Hans snuggled up with Suna, resting his head against the top of hers and opened the book up to the first page.
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
Her mind was still a little hazy. She had not known that she was so sensitive in certain areas, but thanks to Hans, now she did. After things have settled down a little, she felt a bit embarrassed at her bold actions and...vocal affirmations. Definitely not something the shy, introverted elf would have done. But he seemed to like it, so it must be okay.
Suna shrugged lightly when he threw her question back at her. "I only know what I’ve read in books." She batted her eyelashes innocently. Being a bookworm had its perks. She knew many things that she would probably never use or ever experience in her life. But then again, it had given her some insight on what to do just now. Being observant had also been a plus. At least it seems like all her head knowledge worked.
"I’m just teasing you." She laughed. "Hmm, should I get glasses?" The elf had a somewhat serious look on her face as she thought about his suggestion. "Dress up as a librarian? I don’t know if I can pull it off, though...I’ll need to get an outfit for that." She had turned to find a book, so she did not see whatever expression the mercenary might have had on his face.
"I should get those juice boxes and animal crackers for next time then." Her blue eyes sparkled in mirth. "You don’t have to eat or drink any, don’t worry." She was pleased, however, when he admired the tree. It was like her own little connection to her old forest home. Even though she technically did not live on top of a tree, at least her bedroom was on top of one. A living one, to boot.
Then Hans was looking through the titles, and seemed to find one he was familiar with. "Lost Souls...good choice." She found it adorable when he started talking about the story. His eyes had lit up and he seemed so into it. She was a little sorry when he suddenly stopped himself. "Yes, it’s a good one. I haven’t read that one in a long time, so I’ve forgotten most of it." As they snuggled on the couch together, the blanket around both of them, the smile he gave her warmed her heart. It was a different type of warmth from earlier, but no less impactful.
"Lost Souls...by D.O. Gordyn..." And with that, she launched into the story...
The time when Buddy and I got lost was the greatest time of my life.
We were out traipsing through the forest, doing what we usually did: hide and seek. On one such time, it was his turn to find me. Although he did not know how to count, at least he knew enough to sit there patiently for a few minutes. I knew I was no match for a dog’s keen nose, so in order to throw off my scent, I waded across a small stream. But as soon as I stepped on the other side, I felt something...different."
Suna’s voice rose and fell at turns, tinged with excitement. She had forgotten how engrossing this story was.
It was like I’ve stepped into another land. At that time, I didn’t know it, but I had crossed the boundaries into Everland. It was a magical world that I had somehow stumbled into, and it was the start of an adventure.
Buddy had started looking for me, and I even heard his bark when he caught sight of me, just standing in plain sight there on the other side of the creek. But I stood there, frozen, because I had just caught sight of something strange. Something right out of a fairy tale.
I don’t think Buddy saw it, not until he swam through the stream and joined me on the other side. But as soon as he did, he saw it, too, and every muscle in his body went taunt and rigid. He growled, and would have attacked it if I had bent down and caught him by the collar. I couldn’t believe it, there was no way this creature was real...
Suna took a peek over at Hans. "Want to read this next part?"
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
"Interesting." Hans squinted his eyes in mock skepticism at Suna. He didn't doubt that the elf was telling the truth, but he was a little surprise that she had books on these sorts of subjects. Then again, she probably had a book on every subject if her love for books are true. "Maybe you should let me borrow that book sometime...For research." Hans added with a little shrug of his own. His tone made it sound like he was jesting, but a part of him was definitely curious...
Hans tilted his head at the woman's question. Did she take his little joke seriously, the man could not tell. Then she mentioned dressing up....as a sexy librarian. "A...librarian?" Correction, a SEXY librarian. Hans does not remember the last time he set foot in a library, so it's been a while since he's seen a librarian...let alone a sexy one. He could picture it now though, Suna wearing seductive little reading glasses, her hair tied up, and wearing one of those librarian...office(?) like uniforms....all while seductively biting down on the end of a pencil, with a book in her other hand....Or was he thinking about a sexy teacher? Maybe a secretary? At this point Hans didn't care. The very thought of this intrigued the man. "Well...You do have your own little library." The man gestured towards the books. "Also...I'm sure you'll pull it off. You make a good cheerleader after all." The man added with a little smirk.
The man looked genuinely surprised to see Suna's excitement over what was suppose to be the man's teasing jab. "Yeah, yeah." Hans playfully rolled his eyes while crossing his arms. "You can keep those to yourself....But if you try sneaking them into my mouth...I won't stop you." The man claimed, mumbling the last part, but with how quiet it was, and of course thanks to that sensitive hearing of hers, Suna would most likely still hear it anyway. But enough talk about animal crackers and juice. It's reading time!
At least Suna was familiar with the book Hans chose. It helped ease the embarrassment he was feeling from blabbering about it. First the food, and now this. The merc was glad that not only he was able to share these bits of his past with someone like Suna, but that she also experienced these as well, making the two a feel a lot more close, at least in Hans' eyes. The two were now snuggled up against each other under a blanket with the book in hand. Just like the library, Hans cannot recall the last time he ever just relaxed under a cozy little blanket like this. It didn't seem like his style...but there were no arguments to be made...especially when he gets to cuddle up with a cute elf.
Suna started to read the book, and the merc was about to protest, saying that he didn't need to be read to, but as she started going, the merc found it hard to resist. Hearing the beginning of this familiar story come out of the mouth of someone he cared for, it was nostalgic but very different at the same time. The way Suna voiced the story made it clear that she was no stranger to reading if it wasn't obvious already. The man found himself getting immersed in the story, glancing over at Suna from time to time before looking down at the book, smiling lightly. Hans was so engulfed in the story, that he didn't notice Suna's question until a few seconds afterwards. "I...me?" The man pointed at himself, looking a little unsure, but then he lowered his hand and gave the woman a nod. He did say they should read together after all. So with a deep breathe, Hans looked at the book, and continued.
"The creature was intimidating, towering over the both of us. Buddy's growling caught its attention and it turned around. It really was one...a giant, just like in one of those fairy tales! The giant took one step towards us, and my heart started to race.
Buddy was still barking at it with no problem. He really is the bravest between the both of us...but bravery wasn't going to help us here. Another step was taken. I instinctively took a step back, but it did little to further the distance between us. That is when I looked back to the forest across the stream.
We stepped into the strange place by passing this...so we should be able to return the same way. "Buddy let's go!" I yelled out, pulling him by his collar a bit to get him to turn around. The giant took another step. I didn't see it this time, but felt it through the ominous vibrations of the ground we stood upon. Refusing to turn around, I jumped over the stream with Buddy following close behind. "Made it! We're back home buddy!"
But we weren't..."
The way Hans told the story wasn't as exciting as Suna, not being use to reading aloud, but it was clear that he was drawn into the story like he were a kid again.
"The forest that we were playing in...it was gone, replaced by a weirder looking forest filled with odd looking twisted trees with different colored leaves and other various mythical creatures that all appeared less threatening. It was all bizarre, and wonderful...but Buddy's continued barking tore me away from this.
A huge shadow has darkened the area. I was very much aware of what was casting it, but I was too afraid to turn. That is until Buddy had shook himself from my grasp, and ran angrily at the giant. "Buddy, no!" I quickly turned around on instinct, and the first thing I saw...was that giant staring down at me, not paying Buddy any mind. My heart sank at that moment. Every part of me was on edge, screaming to move but my legs were frozen.
The giant slowly rose one of its hands up before lowering it down towards me! This is it...It was going to squish me right! As the hand got closer, I slammed my eyes shut, waiting for the worse to happen...But then I heard a voice.
"Howdy Doo, friend!" The voice, sounding rather feminine rang through the area. I peeked an eye open to see one of the giant's huge fingers...pointing straight at me. "What might your name be?" The giant asked, and I opened my other eye in disbelief."
"Not really the best with...this." With that, Hans turned the page and looked back at Suna. "Want to read this one?"
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
Suna had nodded when Hans claimed he wanted the book for research. Although, she was sure he would be in for a surprise if he did read it. It was a far cry from a children’s book. Much more...mature in its theme and contents. She would have to remember to lend it to him later. As for her dressing up, she could see the mercenary’s mind working, though she had no idea what went on. She only knew that he was thinking quite seriously about it. His voice had been low, but she had caught his last words about feeding him. A small smile curled around her lips, but she did not answer that comment. Another thing to remember for the future.
When he started to read, the elf snuggled closer and relaxed against his side. His voice was so masculine, so warm. Even when the story got more intense, all she heard was the intonation—he made it sound so homely. Plus, it was so comfortable sitting next to him and with a cozy blanket. She could get used to this, having him serenade her with his voice every night.
"Not really the best with...this. Want to read this one?"
"Eh?" Somewhere along the way, he had stopped. "No, you’re doing great." She smiled up at him. She would have loved to hear his voice all the way, but it would not be fair for him to read to her the whole time. "Oh, okay!" The warmth and comfort of it all was making her sleepy, but she blinked a few times, willing herself to stay awake.
"J-Jaxon..." I replied, completely dumbfounded. Was this giant a friend or foe? "And who are you?"
"Who, me?" The giant’s laugh made the entire area rumble. "A giant who just wants to play!"
Buddy’s barking had stopped, but he was still on his haunches, growling lowly at the creature. "Buddy." I whispered, waving a hand at him. "Down, boy! I think this giant is okay." Then louder. "What games do you want to play?"
The giant took a step closer, and I almost fell over from the ground vibrations. "Let’s play tag!"
I grinned. I was fast, and so was Buddy. We should be able to get away easily...right? "You’re it!" And started running. Buddy was right by my side. He seemed just as eager to get away from the giant as soon as possible. I could hear the rumble of the giant’s footsteps as it closed in on us. I ran even faster. I was the fastest running in my school, there was no way I was about to lose now!
But it was a strange place. I was running away towards the woods, but as we got closer, the scenery changed again. Now a huge lake suddenly materialized before us, and I had to skid to a stop to avoid running right into the lake.
"W-Whoa!" Unfortunately, Buddy couldn’t stop in time, and he flew into the water. "Buddy!" I yelled. He bobbled back up to the surface and gave a bark. I knew he could swim, so I waited for him to swim back. Only, his splashing was not the only one I heard.
Bubbles came from the middle of the lake, and I could see dark figures underneath the surface. I had a bad feeling about it. "Faster, faster! Swim faster!" I urged. I squatted down and reached out for him. He was almost there, almost close enough for me to grab his collar and hoist him back onto land. But then, something came up from the water..."
“When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back.”
Suna was once again reading her part of the book while Hans quietly listened. The man found himself snuggling closer to the elf, getting a bit more cozy under the blanket as she continued. Every word that came out of the sound mage's mouth were like pieces of his memory bleeding out into the world. Even though this books is meant mostly for children, Hans was really enjoying it. It brought back memories of how his mother would read this to him as he started to fall asleep in her arms. Now she had another beautiful woman reading it to him while growing sleepy beside her. This moment felt nostalgic for the man, yet very different.
"Your turn!"
"H-hm?" Hans had nearly dozed off during the reading, laying his head gently against Suna's. "Oh right. Sorry." The man claimed as he slowly rose his head up, shifting his body lightly. A thumb gently rubbed against the side of Suna's shoulder as the merc looked down at the book, and started to read his part.
"The figure was not as big as the giant, but still bigger than me. I quickly pulled Buddy back and he started to shake all of the water off of him. A lot of it got on me, yuck! But I was so focused on the creature stepping closer to us. It drew closer, and closer until it revealed itself to be...a nymph! Another being thought only to be a myth, but she looked very real to me with her long, pretty hair, and a dress that looked like it was made from the trees around! She didn't seem as scary as that giant from before, so I took one step to her, and she looked at me curiously. "H-hello?" I waved at her. The nymph tilted her head, and waved back, but it looked like she was only copying me.
I snickered a little and started to wave my other hand, and the nymph did the same. "Oh yeah? Then how about, this!?" I stuck my tongue out and made a silly face, but instead of copying me, the nymph tilted her head again and looked at Buddy who was mostly paying attention to me. He had his tongue stick out and was panting while wagging his tail. He then let out a bark which startled the curious nymph at first, but then she started to shake her butt, and tried to bark too. I couldn't help but snicker some more at that while Buddy was now looking at her all confused! "You're funny!" I said.
Then four more similar looking creatures emerged from the lake, and I stopped laughing. I was spooked at first by all of those nymphs, but the seemed just as friendly...and oddly, one of them was wearing a shoe on their head."
After Hans had finished reading that part, a light chuckled escaped his lips, vaguely remembering what was going to happen next.
"Buh woah, h-hey, wait!" Another voice had called out! I turned my head to see some funny looking guy running up to us. He was mostly bald, and looked a little old. He wore one of those business suits that my dad usually wears, but it was all messy...and he only had one shoe on...which interestingly looked like the one the nymph had on her head...."
Another chuckle was let out by Hans, but he immediately stopped and cleared his throat embarrassingly as he looked over to Suna.. This part and what was going to come next were some of his favorite parts of the story when he was younger. He was really enjoying taking this trip down memory lane.
"Alright. All you." Hans claimed, gesturing his head towards the book a little.
POW
30
DUR
60
SEN
10
STA
22
CON
30
HEALTH senior
SKIN senior
MANA POOL 80/80
MANA REGEN 25 IC / 20 OOC
ITEMS Magic Broom and Dark Edge
NOTES Blah blah blah BATTLE *pew pew pew* SPELLS Show us your stuff
