[ Oh, he could kiss this man forever. He might like to try it, if a small giggle from a passing Endless didn’t yank him suddenly back to reality. They’re here for a purpose, and Arthur has no doubt kept the others waiting long enough.
He allows himself a precious few seconds more to taste G’raha’s lips, to breathe in the scent of him, before pulling away at last. ]
We should probably get back.
[ His words come in a breathless murmur, suggesting he’d like nothing more to do anything but. Duty calls, however, and he can’t in good conscience forestall them any longer. With a steadying inhale, Arthur steps away, but his hand remains clasped in G’raha’s. Let the others see. They practically know already. ]
When this is over, I would very much like to take some time. Just the two of us.
[ Twelve, would that they could. To think of all the quiet, secret moments they could have shared up until now feels like an impossible task, but G'raha Tia has become a man determined to live in the present. What ifs and could bes pale in comparison. The now has Arthur right here, right in front of him.
He lets out a long sigh himself when they finally part. G'raha opens his eyes slowly, taking in all that Arthur is before him. His heart says more, but his head knows that the other man is right. ]
Y-Yes...yes, we should.
[ They have responsibilities here, allies to reconvene with. G'raha exhales forcibly through his nose, trying to recenter himself back down to the ground rather than Cloud 9. Which is only so successful when Arthur still holds his hand.
This...this is something he can do now. He can reach out and gently intertwine his fingers with Arthur's rather than simply watch those hands turn pages. Now, he squeezes those fingers and nods, his tail doing that happy little swish behind him any time he's particularly pleased. ]
My time--you have all of it and more, Arthur. I have yet to properly see what Tuliyollal has to offer.
[ A date that can definitely involve tacos, if G'raha wants. Arthur would be glad to give him the world and more, so a taste of Tuliyollal's fine cuisine is hardly an issue.
Before they set off to where their friends are no doubt wondering what's happened to them, he dips back down to plant a quick kiss on G'raha's cheek. One last indulgence before duty calls. ]
Come on, then.
[ He gives G'raha's hand a little tug, guiding them away from the canal. There's grim work ahead of them all, so Arthur will be extra sure to hold this joyous moment all the closer. ]
A date that unfortunately has to wait, but a date nonetheless.
What Living Memory would eventually reveal to them was no less than enlightening and horrifying in equal parts. G'raha certainly has his opinions about interrupting the flow of life, but he can sympathize with the overwhelming desire to protect those within ones care. Sphene, even a reflection of who she was, would never be able to protect each and every one. It would only ever end in disappointment.
But to finally end the war between new neighboring nations is an accomplishment and what had began as a playful adventure for Arthur can, hopefully, return to something close.
As they step away from the aetheryte, G'raha stretches real big, his tail popping up and straightening out as much as possible. As he relaxes, he breathes in the air of Tuliyollal, really savoring that mix of sea salt and spices. ]
I would say that you have earned yourself some respite, my--
[ Friend? Arthur is still a friend, but-- ]
--A-Arthur.
[ Nice save. ]
I trust the Vows of Reason and Resolve have things well in hand here.
[ As ever, it is never easy. Sphene fought tooth and nail to save her people, unable to see that she was dooming them instead. Never to remember the people they’ve loved, never to be able to sustain them all in that life beyond death. It was a losing battle.
And thus, she lost.
For the people of Alexandria, it was a terrible blow, leaving a melancholy sort of feeling hanging over the place, people trying to cope with the loss of their queen, and indeed, loss in general. He has a feeling he’s not done with that place nor its people just yet.
For now, however, it’s back to Tuliyollal. The air is lighter here, and Arthur allows himself a deep, deep breath, in and out. Time to put all that wretched stuff away for now, and simply enjoy the moment, however long it should last.
He’s gotten rather good at that. ]
“My Arthur” is it?
[ Light, teasing. He looks at G’raha with the utmost fondness, the corners of his eyes crinkling with the way he smiles. They’ll both find their footing, he knows, but he is not above some teasing.
He reaches a hand out, hooking his pinky around G’raha’s. ]
I think we’ve more than earned a bit of rest, yes. As much as I would like to faceplant into bed, I think a bit of dinner is in order first, don’t you agree?
[ "My Arthur", Gods. G'raha immediately wonders if that is, perhaps, pushing the line a little far. He can feel heat rise to his cheeks as his ears flick and settle down against the top of his head, only to perk right back up when Arthur takes his hand.
Oh, well. Mayhaps that wasn't too big of a leap. He returns the gesture by boldly looping his ring finger with Arthur's as well. A touch so small and gentle means so very much. ]
Dinner sounds wonderful. The food in Living Memory did leave something to be desired...
[ Tasteless simulations. Still, it is an amusing memory he has now with Arthur, which is well-worth it. He looks up at Arthur fully, realizing he's about to learn something new about his dear heart. ]
[ In contrast, Arthur would be delighted were G’raha to call him his anything. They can work up to cute nicknames, and probably will, if Arthur has anything to say about it.
When G’raha loops their fingers together, so gentle and so sweet, makes his heart flutter in his ribcage. Gods, he’s perfect. ]
I’d have never guessed, with the way you went in on that ice cream.
I hear the tacos are sublime, but I’ve yet to get a chance to properly try some. Lamaty’i showed me a place down by the water, if you would be amenable.
[ The ice cream. G'raha catches himself partway through a laugh, his ears twitching out to the sides for a moment. In hindsight, maybe he was a little overzealous in his application. He had just...desperately wanted Krile to have her moment of familia reconciliation.
Clearly the best way to do that was deep throat several scoops of ice cream in front of the parents she would have to send to their deaths. Yeah. ]
Th-that was simply to break the tension!
[ It definitely did something.
Ahem. ]
Tacos sound lovely and I would trust the palette of a Tuilyollal native.
[ The shoreline is a decent stretch of the city and G'raha will gladly enjoy the walk to their destination as well. He'll let Arthur lead the way, allowing his gaze to wander a bit as he takes in the different stalls and wares for sale in the merchants quarter. ]
I am surprised you haven't gotten to try them yet, with how long your stay has been. Had you little time to sight-see during the contest?
Oh, no. We had plenty of time. We even had an order of tacos in-hand at one point, ere Bakool Ja Ja thought to make himself a nuisance and dash them all over the street. I've not had a chance to be back for a meal since.
[ That scaly lummox still owes him a meal! Though, he has plenty of his own issues to deal with at present, so Arthur won't press the issue. He's more than happy to take G'raha on a little date and pay for whatever needs paying for himself.
(He will not have to pay for anything, let's be real.) ]
[ All of the street? How horrible. He knows that Arthur would take it in stride, but he has a feeling that Wuk Lamat saw the act as a great slight. No wonder their rivalry burned so brightly. ]
Ah, yes...more pressing matters arise. Well, I am honored to be the one you can rekindle this opportunity with.
[ Arthur is definitely not paying for anything, either by virtue of being besties with the heads of state, or the fact that G'raha wants to. But probably the former. G'raha will likely just benefit from being his plus one.
He refocuses on the man beside him, smiling up at Arthur fondly. ]
I am not too proud to admit it, but when Krile reached out to Y'shtola and I, I all too readily leapt rather literally at the chance to join you. Though I do believe it was her place, not mine, to journey with you and follow the threads of her family's history, there was a small part of me that felt...well. I did want to see you on your next grand adventure.
[ The mental image of G’raha literally leaping at the chance to finally make the journey to Tural, regardless of the reason, pulls a laugh out of Arthur as he begins to make his way down the plaza steps toward the water’s edge. The city is bright and bustling and he doesn’t mind a walk with G’raha’s hand in his. ]
I admit I was… more than a little disappointed when you offered to stay behind. Not that I think you shouldn’t have done so, of course. You’re a good friend, G’raha, and I am glad you gave Krile the chance to take this journey instead.
[ He leans in, bumping their shoulders together lightly as they walk. ]
I had rather selfishly been hoping for a bit of time with you, without some calamity in the way.
[ They both got what they wanted, in the end, so it all worked out. Krile got to come into her own as an adventurer, in a way, and unravel the mysteries of her past. G’raha got to make the trek eventually, and spend no small amount of time at Arthur’s side. And now here they are. ]
I’ve a feeling there will be much and more to do here in Tural, if you have the luxury of extending your stay.
[ It was embarrassing, truly, and G'raha was only too glad that he had been the only one in the room when he received the message. Though he as a sinking suspicion that Ojika may have heard the thud of the books in his lap falling to the floor. Ah, well...
Still, he feels heartened and a tad less guilty to know he wasn't entirely alone in that sentiment. Selfish, yes, and the right choice was ultimately made for all parties involved. He smiles privately, returning that bump with a gentle one of his own. ]
And I you, though I had hoped that this adventure alone would have given you some reprieve.
[ How freeing it is to act so! To relish Arthur's presence without inhibition. G'raha isn't sure if it's something he will ever feel used to, such a gift that it is, but he looks forward to trying.
The cooling breeze of the coming evening is welcome as stone gives way to the sand of the beach. The setting sun is the first thing to really tear his gaze away from Arthur for the whole walk, even if he was eyeing all the stalls and architecture on the way over. This place is truly something to behold.
He squeezes Arthur's hand. ]
I feel an argument can be made that the city should be explored in its entirety!
[ Then looks up at the man with a bit of a sly grin. ]
For...academic purposes, of course.
[ The aroma of the restaurant does catch his attention--something being grilled that smells absolutely delicious. He peeks around Arthur's shoulder, his tail starting to sway with interest. ]
[ Arthur echoes it back, his attempt at dryness utterly undone by the way he smiles when he looks at the man next to him, catching that grin. He doesn't think G'raha fully realizes just how he holds Arthur's heart in his palm, the joy he feels at his mere presence and how close they are.
Gods, he loves this man. ]
It is.
[ As they approach, Arthur catches sight of Br'uk Evu behind the counter and waves. The man waves back, motioning for he and G'raha to find a table. ]
[ G'raha gives his best attempt at a conspiratorial grin. Doubtlessly Krile would give him leave to spend more time Tuliyollal simply to experience it, but especially if it were to spend time with Arthur. (Even not knowing the current nature of their relationship...though doubtlessly having always been aware of G'raha's feelings.)
As such, he is excited to get to share a meal with Arthur. It isn't the first time, no, but this time it's...it is a date, isn't it? It is definitely a date.
G'raha enjoys trying new food but he is feeling giddy for very different reasons.
Looking at the array of tables, he spots an unoccupied one that is close to the water. He enjoys people watching, but the thought of getting to sit with Arthur and watch the sunset over the ocean is really too perfect to pass up. ]
Will this be acceptable?
[ He asks as he leads Arthur over to the table, looking up hopefully. Does the other man know his plan? Potentially. Probably. ]
[ As ever, G’raha is terribly unsubtle, but Arthur will let him have this one. Sampling the city’s fine cuisine is one thing, but a sunset view, just the two of them, is not something Arthur wants to pass up, either.
He has earned the right, he thinks, to be a little selfish after everything. He’s going to keep moments like this close, and enjoy them for as long as he can. ]
‘Tis perfect.
[ He leans over to press a kiss to G’raha’s cheek before moving to sit down. They can be gross and be one of those couples that sits on the same side of the table. ]
[ They absolutely can be, much to G'raha's delight. It is not as if he believes Arthur is beyond such affections, more so that the reality that G'raha can be on the receiving end of these gestures is yet new and amazing. His tail happily swishes behind him at both the kiss and as he sits down, mayhaps "incidentally" scooting his chair a little closer as he settles.
Just. To get more comfortable.
(Internally, he is this icon.)
Though his gaze lingers on the view for a moment, it isn't a long one before he glances over to the server making rounds, and his attention is fully back on Arthur. ]
Do you have any druthers? Or shall we rely entirely on our hosts recommendation? I recall hearing that you did participate in making some local cuisine while you were performing the Rite.
[ Is he ever going to get over how utterly adorable G’raha is? How adorable his boyfriend is? He might not, if he keeps carrying on with those happy little tail swishes and not-so-subtle attempts to be close to him.
Truly, G’raha could get away with just about anything now and all Arthur would think is “awwww.” ]
The Xibruq Pibil you mean?
[ (Thing I definitely had to look up how to spell.) ]
I don’t know if that’s something they serve here, though we can certainly ask. Elsewise, we will simply have to trek back to Yak T’el so you can have a taste.
[ He probably will before G'raha stops pinching himself everyday when he wakes up and realizes that the Warrior of Light, his pillar of inspiration, the object of his dearest desires, Arthur Inkwell had the audacity to return even a fraction of his own affections. That is a dream he never thought he would realize.
And it continues to feel like one as a local dish flows off Arthur's tongue effortlessly. (G'raha does not think he would be able to spell that HIS first time around.) ]
If that is an offer to travel and dine with you again so soon, I would be a fool to refuse.
[ Second...date??
But before he can ask further about said dish, their server--a rather handsome Xbr’aali woman--stands by their table. And she seems pleased to see Arthur in particular. ]
Arthur! It's good to see you back. And finally for a proper meal.
[ Oh, gods, please. They’ll have gone on at least two or three more dates before they get out of the city. There’s so much to see (and eat) here that it can make up at least a few outings.
Arthur gives G’raha a little nudge with his shoulder. ]
I’d rather selfishly like to keep you to myself for a while yet, if you have no objections.
[ He says, knowing there’s no way G’raha would ever object.
It’s at this point that they’re interrupted, but Arthur doesn’t mind. He gives Rral Majun a smile and a small wave. He’s been keeping up with his role quests!! He knows what’s up. ]
‘Tis good to be back, and in a somewhat more permanent capacity this time.
[ They chat for a bit, exchange a couple of remarks about the Unbound and their related shenanigans, and Arthur introduces her to G’raha – his boyfriend. While the miqo’te is busy no doubt rocketing toward the stratosphere at being called as much out loud, Arthur simply orders whatever Rral recommends, the best meal in the place, with something fruity and refreshing (and alcoholic??) to drink. They’ve earned it. Even in some alternate universe where Arthur would have to pay for his food, it’s not like he can’t afford it.
She takes her leave after that, and Arthur glances over to see if gravity has reasserted itself on his partner. ]
[ It's as if everything that comes out of Arthur's mouth is a dream come true--nay, that and so much more.
He can feel his soul ascending to the Sea of Clouds, to the former realm of the Twelve and beyond even as his conversation with their charming server continues. Whatever he is saying to her after 'boyfriend' gets lost in translation as G'raha simply stares at Arthur with wide adoration. Arthur might as well have a glow all his own with how shining his profile appears in G'raha's eyes.
It takes a moment to work through the high, registering not only a shift in Arthur's gaze but that Rral Majun has left them. G'raha's ears pull down a little sheepishly, though he cannot help the grin as his tail flicks wildly back and forth between the pikes of the back of his chair. ]
[ Yes, he gets about what he expected when his eyes land on the other man, but gods help him if it doesn’t make his heart skip a beat anyway. The look on G’raha’s face, the way his tail won’t stop its excited wagging… it’s too cute, and he feels especially privileged to be on the receiving end of it.
Arthur does worry for a second that he may have broken him, with the way he tries and fails several times to get a thought into words. It puts a lid on his urge to tease, for now. ]
Of course I did. If I misspoke, please feel free to correct me.
[ Misspoke? G'raha's eyes widen even more at the very notion and he quickly shakes his head, trying to vanish said thoughts away as quickly as possible. ]
Nay! I only--
[ How can he have existed for centuries and yet feel so young and unprepared at the same time? ]
--well...I had intended to, um--I had thought I may ask you tonight...officially. [ Properly? Look, he has a lot of scenarios he's gone through about this. ] That is to say, to court you properly.
[ He starts to rub his hands together in that nervous habit of his. ]
...I'm just repeating myself. This all sounded much more poetic in my head.
[ Somehow, he didn't figure G'raha would object to the title, though he feels a bit bad about robbing him of his moment.
Arthur reaches over, finding G'raha's hand wherever it might rest -- in his lap, on the table, whichever -- and slides his own over it, fingers curling to give a little squeeze. ]
I'm sorry to have robbed you of your chance to ask, but I hope I have made it obvious what my answer is. I am yours, G'raha Tia, for as long as you will have me.
[ The touch is enough to stop his fidgeting--how could he resist holding hands with Arthur? G'raha immediately returns the gesture, clasping Arthur's hand in both of his his. ]
Nay. [ He shakes his head. ] For all the possibilities I had fantasized about, I can say whole-hardheartedly that this is better simply because it's real.
[ He smiles, feeling his stomach do a flip with just that particular way Arthur looks at him. The subtle smile, the softness in his gaze all directed at him. His heart has never felt so full. How can he possibly be worthy of this wonderful man? ]
You never cease to amaze and surprise me and I...would not have it any other way, Arthur Inkwell. You have my heart as well and I vow to hold yours with all the care and devotion that it deserves.
[ Well, after such a sweet declaration, how can he not kiss him? Arthur leans in to capture G'raha's lips, all warmth and overflowing affection. He'd be sorry for the PDA, but surely if the Warrior of Light has earned anything in his service to the star, it's the right to be gross with his boyfriend in public for a bit. ]
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He allows himself a precious few seconds more to taste G’raha’s lips, to breathe in the scent of him, before pulling away at last. ]
We should probably get back.
[ His words come in a breathless murmur, suggesting he’d like nothing more to do anything but. Duty calls, however, and he can’t in good conscience forestall them any longer. With a steadying inhale, Arthur steps away, but his hand remains clasped in G’raha’s. Let the others see. They practically know already. ]
When this is over, I would very much like to take some time. Just the two of us.
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He lets out a long sigh himself when they finally part. G'raha opens his eyes slowly, taking in all that Arthur is before him. His heart says more, but his head knows that the other man is right. ]
Y-Yes...yes, we should.
[ They have responsibilities here, allies to reconvene with. G'raha exhales forcibly through his nose, trying to recenter himself back down to the ground rather than Cloud 9. Which is only so successful when Arthur still holds his hand.
This...this is something he can do now. He can reach out and gently intertwine his fingers with Arthur's rather than simply watch those hands turn pages. Now, he squeezes those fingers and nods, his tail doing that happy little swish behind him any time he's particularly pleased. ]
My time--you have all of it and more, Arthur. I have yet to properly see what Tuliyollal has to offer.
[ Could that be...a date? An actual date?
A taco date? ]
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[ A date that can definitely involve tacos, if G'raha wants. Arthur would be glad to give him the world and more, so a taste of Tuliyollal's fine cuisine is hardly an issue.
Before they set off to where their friends are no doubt wondering what's happened to them, he dips back down to plant a quick kiss on G'raha's cheek. One last indulgence before duty calls. ]
Come on, then.
[ He gives G'raha's hand a little tug, guiding them away from the canal. There's grim work ahead of them all, so Arthur will be extra sure to hold this joyous moment all the closer. ]
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A date that unfortunately has to wait, but a date nonetheless.
What Living Memory would eventually reveal to them was no less than enlightening and horrifying in equal parts. G'raha certainly has his opinions about interrupting the flow of life, but he can sympathize with the overwhelming desire to protect those within ones care. Sphene, even a reflection of who she was, would never be able to protect each and every one. It would only ever end in disappointment.
But to finally end the war between new neighboring nations is an accomplishment and what had began as a playful adventure for Arthur can, hopefully, return to something close.
As they step away from the aetheryte, G'raha stretches
real big, his tail popping up and straightening out as much as possible. As he relaxes, he breathes in the air of Tuliyollal, really savoring that mix of sea salt and spices. ]I would say that you have earned yourself some respite, my--
[ Friend? Arthur is still a friend, but-- ]
--A-Arthur.
[ Nice save. ]
I trust the Vows of Reason and Resolve have things well in hand here.
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And thus, she lost.
For the people of Alexandria, it was a terrible blow, leaving a melancholy sort of feeling hanging over the place, people trying to cope with the loss of their queen, and indeed, loss in general. He has a feeling he’s not done with that place nor its people just yet.
For now, however, it’s back to Tuliyollal. The air is lighter here, and Arthur allows himself a deep, deep breath, in and out. Time to put all that wretched stuff away for now, and simply enjoy the moment, however long it should last.
He’s gotten rather good at that. ]
“My Arthur” is it?
[ Light, teasing. He looks at G’raha with the utmost fondness, the corners of his eyes crinkling with the way he smiles. They’ll both find their footing, he knows, but he is not above some teasing.
He reaches a hand out, hooking his pinky around G’raha’s. ]
I think we’ve more than earned a bit of rest, yes. As much as I would like to faceplant into bed, I think a bit of dinner is in order first, don’t you agree?
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Oh, well. Mayhaps that wasn't too big of a leap. He returns the gesture by boldly looping his ring finger with Arthur's as well. A touch so small and gentle means so very much. ]
Dinner sounds wonderful. The food in Living Memory did leave something to be desired...
[ Tasteless simulations. Still, it is an amusing memory he has now with Arthur, which is well-worth it. He looks up at Arthur fully, realizing he's about to learn something new about his dear heart. ]
I don't suppose you have any recommendations?
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When G’raha loops their fingers together, so gentle and so sweet, makes his heart flutter in his ribcage. Gods, he’s perfect. ]
I’d have never guessed, with the way you went in on that ice cream.
[ Ahem, anyway– ]
I hear the tacos are sublime, but I’ve yet to get a chance to properly try some. Lamaty’i showed me a place down by the water, if you would be amenable.
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Clearly the best way to do that was deep throat several scoops of ice cream in front of the parents she would have to send to their deaths. Yeah. ]
Th-that was simply to break the tension!
[ It definitely did something.
Ahem. ]
Tacos sound lovely and I would trust the palette of a Tuilyollal native.
[ The shoreline is a decent stretch of the city and G'raha will gladly enjoy the walk to their destination as well. He'll let Arthur lead the way, allowing his gaze to wander a bit as he takes in the different stalls and wares for sale in the merchants quarter. ]
I am surprised you haven't gotten to try them yet, with how long your stay has been. Had you little time to sight-see during the contest?
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Oh, no. We had plenty of time. We even had an order of tacos in-hand at one point, ere Bakool Ja Ja thought to make himself a nuisance and dash them all over the street. I've not had a chance to be back for a meal since.
[ That scaly lummox still owes him a meal! Though, he has plenty of his own issues to deal with at present, so Arthur won't press the issue. He's more than happy to take G'raha on a little date and pay for whatever needs paying for himself.
(He will not have to pay for anything, let's be real.) ]
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Ah, yes...more pressing matters arise. Well, I am honored to be the one you can rekindle this opportunity with.
[ Arthur is definitely not paying for anything, either by virtue of being besties with the heads of state, or the fact that G'raha wants to. But probably the former. G'raha will likely just benefit from being his plus one.
He refocuses on the man beside him, smiling up at Arthur fondly. ]
I am not too proud to admit it, but when Krile reached out to Y'shtola and I, I all too readily leapt rather literally at the chance to join you. Though I do believe it was her place, not mine, to journey with you and follow the threads of her family's history, there was a small part of me that felt...well. I did want to see you on your next grand adventure.
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I admit I was… more than a little disappointed when you offered to stay behind. Not that I think you shouldn’t have done so, of course. You’re a good friend, G’raha, and I am glad you gave Krile the chance to take this journey instead.
[ He leans in, bumping their shoulders together lightly as they walk. ]
I had rather selfishly been hoping for a bit of time with you, without some calamity in the way.
[ They both got what they wanted, in the end, so it all worked out. Krile got to come into her own as an adventurer, in a way, and unravel the mysteries of her past. G’raha got to make the trek eventually, and spend no small amount of time at Arthur’s side. And now here they are. ]
I’ve a feeling there will be much and more to do here in Tural, if you have the luxury of extending your stay.
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Still, he feels heartened and a tad less guilty to know he wasn't entirely alone in that sentiment. Selfish, yes, and the right choice was ultimately made for all parties involved. He smiles privately, returning that bump with a gentle one of his own. ]
And I you, though I had hoped that this adventure alone would have given you some reprieve.
[ How freeing it is to act so! To relish Arthur's presence without inhibition. G'raha isn't sure if it's something he will ever feel used to, such a gift that it is, but he looks forward to trying.
The cooling breeze of the coming evening is welcome as stone gives way to the sand of the beach. The setting sun is the first thing to really tear his gaze away from Arthur for the whole walk, even if he was eyeing all the stalls and architecture on the way over. This place is truly something to behold.
He squeezes Arthur's hand. ]
I feel an argument can be made that the city should be explored in its entirety!
[ Then looks up at the man with a bit of a sly grin. ]
For...academic purposes, of course.
[ The aroma of the restaurant does catch his attention--something being grilled that smells absolutely delicious. He peeks around Arthur's shoulder, his tail starting to sway with interest. ]
Is this the place you spoke of?
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[ Arthur echoes it back, his attempt at dryness utterly undone by the way he smiles when he looks at the man next to him, catching that grin. He doesn't think G'raha fully realizes just how he holds Arthur's heart in his palm, the joy he feels at his mere presence and how close they are.
Gods, he loves this man. ]
It is.
[ As they approach, Arthur catches sight of Br'uk Evu behind the counter and waves. The man waves back, motioning for he and G'raha to find a table. ]
Your pick. Where would you like to sit?
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As such, he is excited to get to share a meal with Arthur. It isn't the first time, no, but this time it's...it is a date, isn't it? It is definitely a date.
G'raha enjoys trying new food but he is feeling giddy for very different reasons.
Looking at the array of tables, he spots an unoccupied one that is close to the water. He enjoys people watching, but the thought of getting to sit with Arthur and watch the sunset over the ocean is really too perfect to pass up. ]
Will this be acceptable?
[ He asks as he leads Arthur over to the table, looking up hopefully. Does the other man know his plan? Potentially. Probably. ]
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He has earned the right, he thinks, to be a little selfish after everything. He’s going to keep moments like this close, and enjoy them for as long as he can. ]
‘Tis perfect.
[ He leans over to press a kiss to G’raha’s cheek before moving to sit down. They can be gross and be one of those couples that sits on the same side of the table. ]
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Just. To get more comfortable.
(Internally, he is this icon.)
Though his gaze lingers on the view for a moment, it isn't a long one before he glances over to the server making rounds, and his attention is fully back on Arthur. ]
Do you have any druthers? Or shall we rely entirely on our hosts recommendation? I recall hearing that you did participate in making some local cuisine while you were performing the Rite.
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Truly, G’raha could get away with just about anything now and all Arthur would think is “awwww.” ]
The Xibruq Pibil you mean?
[ (Thing I definitely had to look up how to spell.) ]
I don’t know if that’s something they serve here, though we can certainly ask. Elsewise, we will simply have to trek back to Yak T’el so you can have a taste.
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And it continues to feel like one as a local dish flows off Arthur's tongue effortlessly. (G'raha does not think he would be able to spell that HIS first time around.) ]
If that is an offer to travel and dine with you again so soon, I would be a fool to refuse.
[ Second...date??
But before he can ask further about said dish, their server--a rather handsome Xbr’aali woman--stands by their table. And she seems pleased to see Arthur in particular. ]
Arthur! It's good to see you back. And finally for a proper meal.
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Arthur gives G’raha a little nudge with his shoulder. ]
I’d rather selfishly like to keep you to myself for a while yet, if you have no objections.
[ He says, knowing there’s no way G’raha would ever object.
It’s at this point that they’re interrupted, but Arthur doesn’t mind. He gives Rral Majun a smile and a small wave. He’s been keeping up with his role quests!! He knows what’s up. ]
‘Tis good to be back, and in a somewhat more permanent capacity this time.
[ They chat for a bit, exchange a couple of remarks about the Unbound and their related shenanigans, and Arthur introduces her to G’raha – his boyfriend. While the miqo’te is busy no doubt rocketing toward the stratosphere at being called as much out loud, Arthur simply orders whatever Rral recommends, the best meal in the place, with something fruity and refreshing (and alcoholic??) to drink. They’ve earned it. Even in some alternate universe where Arthur would have to pay for his food, it’s not like he can’t afford it.
She takes her leave after that, and Arthur glances over to see if gravity has reasserted itself on his partner. ]
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He can feel his soul ascending to the Sea of Clouds, to the former realm of the Twelve and beyond even as his conversation with their charming server continues. Whatever he is saying to her after 'boyfriend' gets lost in translation as G'raha simply stares at Arthur with wide adoration. Arthur might as well have a glow all his own with how shining his profile appears in G'raha's eyes.
It takes a moment to work through the high, registering not only a shift in Arthur's gaze but that Rral Majun has left them. G'raha's ears pull down a little sheepishly, though he cannot help the grin as his tail flicks wildly back and forth between the pikes of the back of his chair. ]
She seems--
[ Make polite conversation. ]
--I mean, everything sounds--
[ Oh hells with it. ]
--...did you mean that?
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Arthur does worry for a second that he may have broken him, with the way he tries and fails several times to get a thought into words. It puts a lid on his urge to tease, for now. ]
Of course I did. If I misspoke, please feel free to correct me.
[ What else would they be if not boyfriends? ]
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Nay! I only--
[ How can he have existed for centuries and yet feel so young and unprepared at the same time? ]
--well...I had intended to, um--I had thought I may ask you tonight...officially. [ Properly? Look, he has a lot of scenarios he's gone through about this. ] That is to say, to court you properly.
[ He starts to rub his hands together in that nervous habit of his. ]
...I'm just repeating myself. This all sounded much more poetic in my head.
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[ Somehow, he didn't figure G'raha would object to the title, though he feels a bit bad about robbing him of his moment.
Arthur reaches over, finding G'raha's hand wherever it might rest -- in his lap, on the table, whichever -- and slides his own over it, fingers curling to give a little squeeze. ]
I'm sorry to have robbed you of your chance to ask, but I hope I have made it obvious what my answer is. I am yours, G'raha Tia, for as long as you will have me.
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Nay. [ He shakes his head. ] For all the possibilities I had fantasized about, I can say whole-hardheartedly that this is better simply because it's real.
[ He smiles, feeling his stomach do a flip with just that particular way Arthur looks at him. The subtle smile, the softness in his gaze all directed at him. His heart has never felt so full. How can he possibly be worthy of this wonderful man? ]
You never cease to amaze and surprise me and I...would not have it any other way, Arthur Inkwell. You have my heart as well and I vow to hold yours with all the care and devotion that it deserves.
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