Who: Waver Velvet & various When: throughout Aguril Where: around the city What: working, quests, shenanigans; if you want to plot anything for the month, PM me! :> Warnings: NSFW on the full moons thread eyyy
It was inevitable, as it is every month, but as the itchy, anxious pull of the waxing moons exerts more and more influence over Waver, he's also become more acutely aware that this will be the first time Iskandar has seen him like this.
Now that he's Bonded not only with Diarmuid but with Iskandar as well, Waver hopes it will be easier to keep his wits about him and not make a fool of himself -- or worse, lapse into that awful lack of control that had taken him over a couple months ago, when he'd found himself regaining awareness bloody and tattered and with no memory of what he'd done that night. It hasn't happened since, with the help of his Bonded, but once was enough to instill the fear of losing himself like that again every month as the time approaches.
It's an effort to ask for help. Even when it's Rider -- especially when it's Rider, maybe -- Waver hates the thought of him seeing him like that. But the alternative is worse. With Diarmuid out, helping Berserker through his own transformation, Waver could lock himself in his room and take some potions, or he could swallow his pride and ask for what he needs.
Iskandar will receive a message in the evening, an hour or two before sundown, reminding him that tonight is the full moons and that Waver would appreciate him being close by. Waver's already given him a key.
Whenever he arrives, Waver greets him at the door looking sour and sheepish already. Uncharacteristically, he isn't wearing much, just some loose trousers and no shirt or shoes. His skin already aches, and the moons haven't even risen yet.
Iskandar was planning to ask if Waver will be in need of assistance but then things got in the way and before he knew it was full moons already. Eventually, it looks like it’s for the better as it forced Waver muster enough courage to ask himself. Though in truth if they were living together there would be no need for asking.
Eh, the sooner they resolve their housing situation the better. There’s but one obstacle that prevents him from fully moving in with Waver. His horse. Iskandar is aware that public stables exist, he simply doesn’t consider them a suitable place for a noble steed like her. Technically he could leave Bucephalus in one place she’s already used to. That is the barracks’ stable. Waver’s apartment is not even that far away. He really doesn’t like leaving his horse alone for too long. She’s as fierce as any of his warriors on the battlefield but can gets frustratingly scared by everyday sounds and sights. The most absurd of things frighten her. Shadows, small rodents, weird rustling noises.
He comes answering Waver’s invitation almost immediately after receiving it making a quick detour to check on Bucephalus on his way. He’d be gone the whole night so that’s necessary.
To be greeted with a view of shirtless Waver is an unexpected but highly pleasing development. The nervous atmosphere isn’t. Iskandar locks the door as asked but than he goes to take the boy by the hand and lead them both him to sit on the couch.
“Tell me everything what’s happening.” He says as he wraps his arm around Waver’s shoulders. “Talking may take your mind off what is painful.” Anything that can provide distraction.
Though Iskandar could think of a lot of other options that could provide comparable effect. He’s not blind. Not is he immune to the charm of one half-naked and very attractive body so close to him. To his own surprise he doesn’t mind the animalistic features that Waver acquired. They actually made him even cuter. Especially the ears. They are lovely. He raises his hand to scratch Waver behind the ears. Just an excuse to touch them. So soft. How can they be so soft?
But this not the time for his wishes. That’s not why he came. So for now, talking.
Just having Iskandar in the same room is already soothing; as soon as he's pulled to the couch and gently manhandled into cuddling, the ample skin-to-skin contact feels like a cooling balm on his aching body. Waver lets out a slow breath, relaxing a little against Iskandar's side.
Iskandar may notice in turn that Waver's body feels much warmer, almost feverishly hot compared to a human's, though he doesn't even look flushed. With his shirt off, more animal traits are visible -- soft fur along the back of his neck and down his spine to the base of the curly tail poking out through the customized hole in the back of his trousers. His eyes look darker than usual, almost black, reflective when they catch the light at certain angles; his nails, usually kept neatly trimmed, refuse to stay that way tonight.
"What am I supposed to tell you? You can see it for yourself," he mumbles in response, unable to keep the sullen note out of his voice even though he knows Iskandar is just trying to help him.
The sudden touch along the base of his ear, however, makes Waver jump. His hand comes up to grab at Iskandar's wrist, a soft whine catching in his throat.
"H-hey! Gently."
Despite his protests though, both of Waver's pointed ears turn out and down, as if to give Iskandar's fingers more surface area to work. In truth, he'd gotten used to them being sore when they were first changing, and he's avoided touching them much himself because they still make him feel uncomfortable, but the sensation now isn't painful like before.
When Iskandar softens his touch, it even feels good. Enough to distract from the itchy restlessness that makes him want to squirm and go back to pacing the room like he'd been before Rider arrived.
"What I see is that you're running a fever and jumping around as if an angry wasp bit you."
He's not going to tell the boy to sit still because that's obviously not going to work. Let him jump as much as he wants. Still, a distraction is necessary. Focus him on anything other than the cursed moons' influence.
"You can tell me what's irking you so maybe I'd be able to help. Or we can turn to more mundane subjects. Like how was your day if that's better."
Freeing his hand is easy. Waver might have grown in strength with the newly acquired muscles but it's not that much of a difference when compared to Iskandar.
"I am gentle."
Still, he makes an effort to be more careful. Waver protests loudly but his body language, his ears, tell a different story. They yield to the touch of Iskandar's hand, welcome it even. It is a bit unsettling how eerily canine that behavior is.
"I'm not running a fever..." Waver sighs, half annoyed but also half in response to the petting. He settles down, a little, lashes lower and head leaning into Iskandar's touch encouragingly despite his whining.
"It's just like this now." He doesn't really notice, but he's realized by now thanks to other people's comments that his body temperature is a bit higher. Like a dog's.
Ugh. Waver groans, shifting again restlessly, curling his legs beneath him.
"Oh, don't give me that I have a few things to complain about, okay?" Yep. He still complains a lot, and still grumbles and bitches for no reason too, but in this case he feels justified. Iskandar is doing his best to help though, so he tries.
"...anyway, my day was fine. I was able to get through work without too much trouble. It gets worse the closer to sundown it is, so I got a morning shift, but it was... all right. What did you do?"
Complaining or not, he's still nuzzling into Iskandar's palm, and the petting is clearly helping physically at least. The tail curling out from behind him on the side of the couch twitches.
"All right. That's good to know. I was just worried you might be getting sick in addition to, well, current situation." Iskandar nods. That's a relief. Some good news is better than none.
"Grumble all you want. I'm not going to stop you" It starts on a lighter note but his voice turns serious quickly. Iskandar is more than aware that Waver is not exaggerating. He can feel the boy's restless twitching.
"Do not think that I make light of your suffering. I do not. I can see ..." There goes a slight pause followed by a short sigh. "I can feel you're in distress."
All those canine clues make him realize that yes, he's trying to help but he's doing it from a solely human perspective. The animal part of his young Master needs soothing as much as the human one does. He has to think of the dog as much as he thinks of the boy.
"I have a proposition" he says finally, words flowing slowly, his tone steady and calm.
"Why don't we change position? I see that sitting is not comfortable for you right now. I would move aside a bit. Just a little. Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere. Just making space so you can curl on the couch." He pauses for a moment observing the reaction to his words. "How does that sound to you?"
"I know... I just..." Waver trails off in a mumble, shoulders slumping. He's definitely sulking, but it's not for no reason this time.
He does look up when Rider says he has a proposition though, and his ears perk up again, intently listening.
"Oh. Er... sure, that sounds okay."
It's not really that sitting itself is uncomfortable; everything feels kind of uncomfortable, as the sun has almost entirely disappeared beyond the window, and nightfall settles heavily in his bones. He hasn't taken the full shift yet; it hasn't gotten that bad, but he keeps anticipating it, anxiously awaiting any further changes and not sure when they'll come or how bad they'll be.
When Iskandar moves over, Waver follows suit, curling up on his side beside him. Tentatively, he settles his head in Iskandar's lap.
"This is... fine." A little awkward, and he does flush now, embarrassed rather than feverish.
"Can you keep talking to me? Tell me what you've been up to."
Iskandar returns his hand to where it was on Waver's head, resuming the caress. A fond smile appears on his face when he sees the boy blush. There seems to be no end to adorable with this one.
"Well, I was mainly going around the city." He should be at the magic classes, he knows this. Actually learning, not running around sight-seeing... but it's so boring... He fully acknowledges the need to practice the talent once he has it but the theory... The theory has always been his bane. There's a reason Aristotle took the whole of their lot walking around in Mieza while he was teaching them. The old man knew his pupils - and one especially - can't be made to sit in once place and just listen. It looks not much has changed since Iskandar was that kid.
"I took Bucephalus for a little trip from the Bright Wall to the bay. Girl needs to move so I thought it would be a good idea. I thought if they have a harbour surely they must have a navy so I could at least see what kind of ships are there." His hands move as he speaks idly wandering from Waver's hair to his neck, down the back following the line of soft fur along his spine, and up again.
"But all I saw were some merchant vessels. Heavy cargo mostly. The district itself is pretty lousy with all the smoke from the factories but it has nice little in. I didn't look inside, that's not a place where I would leave a horse unattended, but at least from the outside, it sounded pretty lively." Frankly, it's a run-down tavern with questionable clientele in a run-down district. Only Iskandar can call such a place a nice little in.
"Mmh..." Waver makes a few quiet, affirming noises at appropriate points during Rider's story to show he's listening, but doesn't interrupt. The soft touch along his spine is surprisingly relaxing, even though he's self-conscious about the fur. It automatically makes him practically melt into Iskandar's lap, eyes drifting halfway shut. Considering their difference in size, it's not as comfortable to just lay on his side with only his head in Iskandar's lap though, so after a few minutes, Waver shifts enough to get his arms up, re-adjusting and curling up so the upper half of his body is draped across his Bonded's thighs, head cradled in his own crossed arms. Even if his eyes are closed and his face is mostly hidden, though, his ears are responsive as ever, twitching and one angling out toward Iskandar with interest to listen.
"I haven't spent much time out by the docks," he replies, a little muffled. That's probably unsurprising, considering the sort of rougher place Iskandar found it to be; it's not exactly a Waver-like area. "But it sounds like you at least had an interesting day. I'll go look around with you some more next week when I'm free." He's had some time to explore the city, of course, but there are places he feels safer with Iskandar, and also places he might have different appreciation for with someone who's actually interested, so it sounds like it could be fun.
Iskandar chuckles when Waver finally gives in and climbs up. Now he almost has the boy where he wants him. Ideally, he would just drag Waver closer and wrap him in his arms but he doesn't want to rush things. Not on a night like this. Let them unfold at their own pace. He already feels how responsive the boy is to his touch and the adjusted position gives him even more reach. So there's hope that maybe Iskandar can get him to fall asleep. At least for some time.
But then... busted. Eh, he always has to be so perceptive, does he? Even a king knows when he's caught.
"I...err... I did but when I realized that on my way back and that I would be late even if did manage the get there before the classes finished. I thought it won't be a disaster if I missed one."
Simply speaking, he really didn't want to be there. The city takes time to traverse on foot, yes, but given Iskandar was on horseback he could have easily arrived almost on time for the classes. No one would even notice. That is if only he tried.
Waver highly doubts Iskandar actually forgot, and even if he did, he probably would have just said so. This whole explanation is unnecessary, unless of course he's trying a little too hard to justify playing hooky.
In a weird way, it's almost cute. Waver snorts, tilting his head up just enough to peek up at Iskandar with one eye.
"Are you trying to avoid me scolding you?"
It's ridiculous when said out loud. Waver twists around a little, propping himself up enough to actually lift his head and look at Iskandar. If nothing else, at least it's clear the conversation has distracted him.
"I know you're more interested in this world's culture and politics than its magic, but if you don't learn to handle your own, you run the risk of becoming a danger to both of us."
So much for that. He got scolded anyway. Perhaps surprisingly though, considering what a high-strung mood Waver was in a little bit ago, he sounds more vaguely amused than upset-- except that last part, which is delivered with stern matter-of-factness.
Still, after a beat, he goes on: "I've been sitting in on the classes when I can." Even though he can't do magic in this world, and he's not a Witch. It's gotten him some looks occasionally, but no one in the Coven tries to stop him. "If there's anything you need clarification on, you just need to ask."
Making a fool of himself is not beneath him if it serves to achieve his goal. Right now the goal is to get Waver to relax. If his story is doing just that, he doesn't mind the scolding. He wouldn't mind it anyway. Waver is his vassal and his friend. Iskandar smiles. And a lot more than just that... He has the right to express his opinions.
"But I do treat the matter of your safety very seriously." His own, not so much. That's not a vice he's going to free himself of soon. "The only problem is that I can't sit on those classes and concentrate when they are saying the same things four times in a row just using different words. I wish they got straight to the point."
Iskandar knows the subject is fascinating for Waver so he refrains from using the word boring but that's what it is for him. It's not that he himself can be kept away from the Coven's library. He loves it. It's that Waver is right, books that he reads have nothing to do with magic and magic is something he should concentrate on right now.
It's an impossible situation. Exactly the type he excels at overcoming. Iskandar laughs. Of course!
"I see only one solution to this. I need to start taking you with me."
There are some spells he would like to learn. All the wards and shields he considers combat worthy. Offensive like fireballs or lightning. Ice. They remind him a bit that dream with a burning forest he had before he came here. He would really like to learn lightning spells. If he's unable to call his chariot here then let him at least have the ability to unleash the fury of the storm on his enemies.
"You'd understand more from all they're saying than I do and you can help me practice later."
Waver rolls his eyes at Iskandar's complaining, but the twitch of his lips says he's hiding a smile. He sits up a bit more, propping himself up with both hands on Iskandar's thigh, and shifts closer.
The laugh is contagious. He actually smiles back.
"They're not saying the same thing. You just need to know how to understand the difference."
At that suggestion though -- and the implicit praise, Iskandar acknowledging that he knows better on this subject and actually looking to him for help -- Waver visibly perks up even more, ears up. His tail, traitorous as ever, wags a few times.
"Hmm... I mean, if you insist, I suppose I could make time in my schedule..."
In other words, his answer is clearly a resounding yes, of course, I'd love that!
"Then it must be a subtle difference. Good then I have you to pick it up."
The praise is fully earned, for it is true that on a subject of magic Iskandar always trust Waver's judgement more than his own. A king doesn't need to know everything. It would be a folly and a waste of time to try. He has advisors for a reason. No one has life long enough to truly know all but everyone should heed the advice to those who are dedicated practitioners of their craft. No matter their age.
Iskandar is getting used to the ears expressions very quickly. They're almost a whole additional language of their own. The tail wagging surprises him even if it shouldn't. All those tiny expressions. It almost feels like listening to a friend speaking a foreign tongue one never suspected them to know. Somehow it just adds to the charm.
"Ho? What kind of worldly affairs do you have in your busy schedule that could be more important than a request from your king? Do tell!"
"I mean, I do have work," Waver points out with a short laugh. And of course they both know that's not more important than a genuine request from Iskandar, but the banter is amusing even if it's mostly for show.
"And... er... actually, it's just work."
Waver, you need friends.
"I like to sit in on classes anyway. It'll be more interesting to go together. I can help you with your homework," he teases, crawling up into Iskandar's lap.
"I don't have to drag you everywhere." Now, that's finally how things should be. He sets on a content smile wrapping Waver in his arms. "Especially, if you don't want to."
He knows you want, you can really stop pretending.
"And I understand work is important. Maybe I should get one."
Yes, Iskandar, that could actually help. Stop leeching off your boy as you always do.
It really is amazing how much it helps to have his Bonded close; the more skin on skin contact the more the tension drains away, leaving a vague discomfort for now that can be ignored. His shifts haven't been too intense so far, not after the first time before he'd Bonded at all, but it's a marked improvement. Maybe it's also just because it's Iskandar. The effect is emotional as much as magical and physical. Like this, Waver feels truly safe.
He lets Iskandar wrap him up close and shifts in any way needed to curl up comfortably in his arms, cheek resting on Iskandar's shoulder. His scent is strong, warm and familiar. Waver can't help but nuzzle closer, pressing his face into the side of his Bonded's neck.
"Hmm?"
Ah, yes. He's listening.
"Yes. You should. Maybe it would be easier to find a place with a stable you find agreeable if we both have an income and can look beyond the charity housing provided. Not to mention you really need to stop eating the food in the kitchen here whenever you feel like it. Not all of that's even mine, you know."
All this grumbling with his face still firmly planted against Iskandar's throat, the movement of his lips brushing skin.
"What if I am hungry and I need sustenance?" So, does everybody else.
Waver, you're talking to a man who hasn't worked a day in his life, never cared for material wealth and does not really understand the concept of work per se. What people didn't want to give him freely, he took by force, with a few notable exceptions, but never kept much for himself always giving away almost everything of what he acquired. He'd need time to parse all this new information. He can't exactly do this with one half-naked wonder in his arms setting his blood on fire.
So there's a considerable delay before he's able to calm down enough to respond. Before he can think about anything else than throwing the boy on the couch and making mad love to him. But he's not here for that. Unless Waver would want it himself. Love is one thing Iskandar would never take by force.
"You're right. This is not a Grail War and I am your king. I should provide for you and not the other way round."
Unluckily (or maybe luckily?) for Iskandar, Waver's senses are far too sharp already, and only enhanced by the full moons. He can feel the way his Bonded's pulse speeds up under his lips, the faint impression of arousal he's starting to give off. Even if he can keep further physical reactions in check, Waver can scent it on his skin, the warmth in the air around them, the way it flutters through their Bond.
And it tugs almost instantly at his animal instincts, just as much as his general desire and affection for his King. Right now, it's just much harder to resist or control.
Waver breathes in deeply, nosing along the underside of Iskandar's jaw. His tongue slides over skin, just the briefest flick of wet warmth, gone again in a moment.
"Mmm... 's okay," he mumbles, heart beating fast.
"We can provide for... each other..."
Increasing excitement means he has a harder time controlling his changes too, and they're not all physical. The need hits him with a suddenness that leaves Waver aching, the moon-madness surging through his veins the moment he starts to give into it, unraveling his convictions and urging him to indulge. Obey his instincts. Lay claim to what's his.
His breath is hot along Iskandar's skin as Waver opens his mouth, tongue sliding briefly along the curve between his neck and shoulder until he hits the collar of Iskandar's shirt. And there, he bites down, sharp canine teeth easily piercing through whatever cloth is in the way-- and if Iskandar doesn't stop him, through to the flesh beneath. Not hard, of course. Well, not too hard. But if he draws blood, it probably isn't on accident.
"Is that so?" Iskandar chuckles. "Then why are you complaining about it?"
He can feel it too. The warmth, the need. It's like an underground river coursing underneath, seeking a way out. Invisible and yet present. He hums with contentment feeling Waver's tongue on his neck.
When did you get so bold?
It's not a question that needs answering so he doesn't even bother asking it. The answer won't change a thing and Iskandar is already more than delighted with the result.
The pain is nothing. Or rather it's all the permission Iskandar needs to lift Waver's chin and lean down for a kiss. So delicious. He can still taste his own blood, sharp and metallic, on the boy's lips.
"Careful there. I've heard that witch's blood can be addictive."
He doesn't have to work too hard to get Waver to lift his head, no need to pry him off or anything. The Turnskin obeys with a touch, raising his gaze to Iskandar, mouth open. His eyes are... off, glinting reflectively, glassy with distraction and want.
He lifts himself up into the kiss with ferocious enthusiasm. Waver squirms around in Iskandar's lap until he's straddling it, facing him with both hands on those broad shoulders as if to hold him in place. As if Iskandar might change his mind and stop kissing him as fervently as Waver kisses back.
Generally, Waver tries to keep his claws trimmed so they don't scratch anyone or catch on things or get in the way at work. Around the time of the full moons and especially tonight, there's absolutely no trying to keep them in check. If he pricks Iskandar's shoulders through his shirt, it's only because it's inevitable.
The warning is met only with a vague growl, muffled against Iskandar's tongue. Waver's teeth are still very sharp, but there's nothing he can do about that, and he's certainly not trying to be careful with his hungry, desperate kisses.
[It's hard, being pretty much 'blind' and having to navigate such a large space. To Emil's credit he's been doing a pretty good job of it, but even then he's bound to make mistakes. Coming back from the mess hall in the Coven, he's careful to listen for the sounds of other students and their comings and goings, but it's hard to listen for someone who isn't moving...
Which is why he walks straight into Waver. Whoops.]
A-Ah! I'm sorry, I didn't see you there-!
[No shit Emil, your eyes are covered by bandages.]
[ It's a good thing Emil is small... even smaller than Waver actually?? Otherwise he'd definitely have sent the other boy sprawling, since Waver also wasn't watching where he was going, nose in a book like an idiot.
Thankfully, it doesn't hurt that much-- but he does drop the book with a muffled curse, scrambling to catch it and failing. There's an audible flop. ]
Dammit!
[ As if it's not halfway Waver's fault...
He bends down to grab the book, fussing over bent pages, and finally looks up. ]
[At least Waver feels bad. He could always just be a brat and walk away, but the fact he feels a little guilty means he's a decent person...right? Not that Emil's going to think he's anything but a decent person but, y'know.]
I really didn't mean to bump into you, I promise!
[Which, considering the bandages around his eyes, it's clear he's telling the truth.]
[ A little bent, but uh. hopefully the Coven library won't notice? or mind too much? Maybe there's a Witch around who can help him discreetly restore it.
Anyway. Waver dusts off the book and tucks it under his arm, looking back over at the stranger sheepishly. He's the one who should have been watching where he was going. Barreling into a blind kid is not a good look.]
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for Iskandar, full moons.
Now that he's Bonded not only with Diarmuid but with Iskandar as well, Waver hopes it will be easier to keep his wits about him and not make a fool of himself -- or worse, lapse into that awful lack of control that had taken him over a couple months ago, when he'd found himself regaining awareness bloody and tattered and with no memory of what he'd done that night. It hasn't happened since, with the help of his Bonded, but once was enough to instill the fear of losing himself like that again every month as the time approaches.
It's an effort to ask for help. Even when it's Rider -- especially when it's Rider, maybe -- Waver hates the thought of him seeing him like that. But the alternative is worse. With Diarmuid out, helping Berserker through his own transformation, Waver could lock himself in his room and take some potions, or he could swallow his pride and ask for what he needs.
Iskandar will receive a message in the evening, an hour or two before sundown, reminding him that tonight is the full moons and that Waver would appreciate him being close by. Waver's already given him a key.
Whenever he arrives, Waver greets him at the door looking sour and sheepish already. Uncharacteristically, he isn't wearing much, just some loose trousers and no shirt or shoes. His skin already aches, and the moons haven't even risen yet.
"Hey... Come in. Lock the door."
full moons finally
Eh, the sooner they resolve their housing situation the better. There’s but one obstacle that prevents him from fully moving in with Waver. His horse.
Iskandar is aware that public stables exist, he simply doesn’t consider them a suitable place for a noble steed like her. Technically he could leave Bucephalus in one place she’s already used to. That is the barracks’ stable. Waver’s apartment is not even that far away. He really doesn’t like leaving his horse alone for too long. She’s as fierce as any of his warriors on the battlefield but can gets frustratingly scared by everyday sounds and sights. The most absurd of things frighten her. Shadows, small rodents, weird rustling noises.
He comes answering Waver’s invitation almost immediately after receiving it making a quick detour to check on Bucephalus on his way.
He’d be gone the whole night so that’s necessary.
To be greeted with a view of shirtless Waver is an unexpected but highly pleasing development. The nervous atmosphere isn’t.
Iskandar locks the door as asked but than he goes to take the boy by the hand and lead them both him to sit on the couch.
“Tell me everything what’s happening.” He says as he wraps his arm around Waver’s shoulders. “Talking may take your mind off what is painful.” Anything that can provide distraction.
Though Iskandar could think of a lot of other options that could provide comparable effect. He’s not blind. Not is he immune to the charm of one half-naked and very attractive body so close to him. To his own surprise he doesn’t mind the animalistic features that Waver acquired. They actually made him even cuter. Especially the ears. They are lovely. He raises his hand to scratch Waver behind the ears. Just an excuse to touch them. So soft. How can they be so soft?
But this not the time for his wishes. That’s not why he came. So for now, talking.
no subject
Iskandar may notice in turn that Waver's body feels much warmer, almost feverishly hot compared to a human's, though he doesn't even look flushed. With his shirt off, more animal traits are visible -- soft fur along the back of his neck and down his spine to the base of the curly tail poking out through the customized hole in the back of his trousers. His eyes look darker than usual, almost black, reflective when they catch the light at certain angles; his nails, usually kept neatly trimmed, refuse to stay that way tonight.
"What am I supposed to tell you? You can see it for yourself," he mumbles in response, unable to keep the sullen note out of his voice even though he knows Iskandar is just trying to help him.
The sudden touch along the base of his ear, however, makes Waver jump. His hand comes up to grab at Iskandar's wrist, a soft whine catching in his throat.
"H-hey! Gently."
Despite his protests though, both of Waver's pointed ears turn out and down, as if to give Iskandar's fingers more surface area to work. In truth, he'd gotten used to them being sore when they were first changing, and he's avoided touching them much himself because they still make him feel uncomfortable, but the sensation now isn't painful like before.
When Iskandar softens his touch, it even feels good. Enough to distract from the itchy restlessness that makes him want to squirm and go back to pacing the room like he'd been before Rider arrived.
no subject
"What I see is that you're running a fever and jumping around as if an angry wasp bit you."
He's not going to tell the boy to sit still because that's obviously not going to work. Let him jump as much as he wants. Still, a distraction is necessary. Focus him on anything other than the cursed moons' influence.
"You can tell me what's irking you so maybe I'd be able to help. Or we can turn to more mundane subjects. Like how was your day if that's better."
Freeing his hand is easy. Waver might have grown in strength with the newly acquired muscles but it's not that much of a difference when compared to Iskandar.
"I am gentle."
Still, he makes an effort to be more careful. Waver protests loudly but his body language, his ears, tell a different story. They yield to the touch of Iskandar's hand, welcome it even. It is a bit unsettling how eerily canine that behavior is.
"You still complain a lot, boy"
no subject
"It's just like this now." He doesn't really notice, but he's realized by now thanks to other people's comments that his body temperature is a bit higher. Like a dog's.
Ugh. Waver groans, shifting again restlessly, curling his legs beneath him.
"Oh, don't give me that I have a few things to complain about, okay?" Yep. He still complains a lot, and still grumbles and bitches for no reason too, but in this case he feels justified. Iskandar is doing his best to help though, so he tries.
"...anyway, my day was fine. I was able to get through work without too much trouble. It gets worse the closer to sundown it is, so I got a morning shift, but it was... all right. What did you do?"
Complaining or not, he's still nuzzling into Iskandar's palm, and the petting is clearly helping physically at least. The tail curling out from behind him on the side of the couch twitches.
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"Grumble all you want. I'm not going to stop you" It starts on a lighter note but his voice turns serious quickly. Iskandar is more than aware that Waver is not exaggerating. He can feel the boy's restless twitching.
"Do not think that I make light of your suffering. I do not. I can see ..." There goes a slight pause followed by a short sigh. "I can feel you're in distress."
All those canine clues make him realize that yes, he's trying to help but he's doing it from a solely human perspective. The animal part of his young Master needs soothing as much as the human one does. He has to think of the dog as much as he thinks of the boy.
"I have a proposition" he says finally, words flowing slowly, his tone steady and calm.
"Why don't we change position? I see that sitting is not comfortable for you right now. I would move aside a bit. Just a little. Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere. Just making space so you can curl on the couch." He pauses for a moment observing the reaction to his words. "How does that sound to you?"
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He does look up when Rider says he has a proposition though, and his ears perk up again, intently listening.
"Oh. Er... sure, that sounds okay."
It's not really that sitting itself is uncomfortable; everything feels kind of uncomfortable, as the sun has almost entirely disappeared beyond the window, and nightfall settles heavily in his bones. He hasn't taken the full shift yet; it hasn't gotten that bad, but he keeps anticipating it, anxiously awaiting any further changes and not sure when they'll come or how bad they'll be.
When Iskandar moves over, Waver follows suit, curling up on his side beside him. Tentatively, he settles his head in Iskandar's lap.
"This is... fine." A little awkward, and he does flush now, embarrassed rather than feverish.
"Can you keep talking to me? Tell me what you've been up to."
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Iskandar returns his hand to where it was on Waver's head, resuming the caress. A fond smile appears on his face when he sees the boy blush. There seems to be no end to adorable with this one.
"Well, I was mainly going around the city." He should be at the magic classes, he knows this. Actually learning, not running around sight-seeing... but it's so boring... He fully acknowledges the need to practice the talent once he has it but the theory... The theory has always been his bane. There's a reason Aristotle took the whole of their lot walking around in Mieza while he was teaching them. The old man knew his pupils - and one especially - can't be made to sit in once place and just listen. It looks not much has changed since Iskandar was that kid.
"I took Bucephalus for a little trip from the Bright Wall to the bay. Girl needs to move so I thought it would be a good idea. I thought if they have a harbour surely they must have a navy so I could at least see what kind of ships are there." His hands move as he speaks idly wandering from Waver's hair to his neck, down the back following the line of soft fur along his spine, and up again.
"But all I saw were some merchant vessels. Heavy cargo mostly. The district itself is pretty lousy with all the smoke from the factories but it has nice little in. I didn't look inside, that's not a place where I would leave a horse unattended, but at least from the outside, it sounded pretty lively." Frankly, it's a run-down tavern with questionable clientele in a run-down district. Only Iskandar can call such a place a nice little in.
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"I haven't spent much time out by the docks," he replies, a little muffled. That's probably unsurprising, considering the sort of rougher place Iskandar found it to be; it's not exactly a Waver-like area. "But it sounds like you at least had an interesting day. I'll go look around with you some more next week when I'm free." He's had some time to explore the city, of course, but there are places he feels safer with Iskandar, and also places he might have different appreciation for with someone who's actually interested, so it sounds like it could be fun.
Other than that, though...
"Didn't you have classes in the afternoon?"
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But then... busted. Eh, he always has to be so perceptive, does he? Even a king knows when he's caught.
"I...err... I did but when I realized that on my way back and that I would be late even if did manage the get there before the classes finished. I thought it won't be a disaster if I missed one."
Simply speaking, he really didn't want to be there. The city takes time to traverse on foot, yes, but given Iskandar was on horseback he could have easily arrived almost on time for the classes. No one would even notice. That is if only he tried.
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Waver highly doubts Iskandar actually forgot, and even if he did, he probably would have just said so. This whole explanation is unnecessary, unless of course he's trying a little too hard to justify playing hooky.
In a weird way, it's almost cute. Waver snorts, tilting his head up just enough to peek up at Iskandar with one eye.
"Are you trying to avoid me scolding you?"
It's ridiculous when said out loud. Waver twists around a little, propping himself up enough to actually lift his head and look at Iskandar. If nothing else, at least it's clear the conversation has distracted him.
"I know you're more interested in this world's culture and politics than its magic, but if you don't learn to handle your own, you run the risk of becoming a danger to both of us."
So much for that. He got scolded anyway. Perhaps surprisingly though, considering what a high-strung mood Waver was in a little bit ago, he sounds more vaguely amused than upset-- except that last part, which is delivered with stern matter-of-factness.
Still, after a beat, he goes on: "I've been sitting in on the classes when I can." Even though he can't do magic in this world, and he's not a Witch. It's gotten him some looks occasionally, but no one in the Coven tries to stop him. "If there's anything you need clarification on, you just need to ask."
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Making a fool of himself is not beneath him if it serves to achieve his goal. Right now the goal is to get Waver to relax. If his story is doing just that, he doesn't mind the scolding. He wouldn't mind it anyway. Waver is his vassal and his friend. Iskandar smiles. And a lot more than just that... He has the right to express his opinions.
"But I do treat the matter of your safety very seriously." His own, not so much. That's not a vice he's going to free himself of soon. "The only problem is that I can't sit on those classes and concentrate when they are saying the same things four times in a row just using different words. I wish they got straight to the point."
Iskandar knows the subject is fascinating for Waver so he refrains from using the word boring but that's what it is for him. It's not that he himself can be kept away from the Coven's library. He loves it. It's that Waver is right, books that he reads have nothing to do with magic and magic is something he should concentrate on right now.
It's an impossible situation. Exactly the type he excels at overcoming. Iskandar laughs. Of course!
"I see only one solution to this. I need to start taking you with me."
There are some spells he would like to learn. All the wards and shields he considers combat worthy. Offensive like fireballs or lightning. Ice. They remind him a bit that dream with a burning forest he had before he came here. He would really like to learn lightning spells. If he's unable to call his chariot here then let him at least have the ability to unleash the fury of the storm on his enemies.
"You'd understand more from all they're saying than I do and you can help me practice later."
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The laugh is contagious. He actually smiles back.
"They're not saying the same thing. You just need to know how to understand the difference."
At that suggestion though -- and the implicit praise, Iskandar acknowledging that he knows better on this subject and actually looking to him for help -- Waver visibly perks up even more, ears up. His tail, traitorous as ever, wags a few times.
"Hmm... I mean, if you insist, I suppose I could make time in my schedule..."
In other words, his answer is clearly a resounding yes, of course, I'd love that!
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The praise is fully earned, for it is true that on a subject of magic Iskandar always trust Waver's judgement more than his own. A king doesn't need to know everything. It would be a folly and a waste of time to try. He has advisors for a reason. No one has life long enough to truly know all but everyone should heed the advice to those who are dedicated practitioners of their craft. No matter their age.
Iskandar is getting used to the ears expressions very quickly. They're almost a whole additional language of their own. The tail wagging surprises him even if it shouldn't. All those tiny expressions. It almost feels like listening to a friend speaking a foreign tongue one never suspected them to know. Somehow it just adds to the charm.
"Ho? What kind of worldly affairs do you have in your busy schedule that could be more important than a request from your king? Do tell!"
That means you're going. He knows you want to.
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"And... er... actually, it's just work."
Waver, you need friends.
"I like to sit in on classes anyway. It'll be more interesting to go together. I can help you with your homework," he teases, crawling up into Iskandar's lap.
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"I don't have to drag you everywhere." Now, that's finally how things should be. He sets on a content smile wrapping Waver in his arms. "Especially, if you don't want to."
He knows you want, you can really stop pretending.
"And I understand work is important. Maybe I should get one."
Yes, Iskandar, that could actually help. Stop leeching off your boy as you always do.
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He lets Iskandar wrap him up close and shifts in any way needed to curl up comfortably in his arms, cheek resting on Iskandar's shoulder. His scent is strong, warm and familiar. Waver can't help but nuzzle closer, pressing his face into the side of his Bonded's neck.
"Hmm?"
Ah, yes. He's listening.
"Yes. You should. Maybe it would be easier to find a place with a stable you find agreeable if we both have an income and can look beyond the charity housing provided. Not to mention you really need to stop eating the food in the kitchen here whenever you feel like it. Not all of that's even mine, you know."
All this grumbling with his face still firmly planted against Iskandar's throat, the movement of his lips brushing skin.
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Waver, you're talking to a man who hasn't worked a day in his life, never cared for material wealth and does not really understand the concept of work per se. What people didn't want to give him freely, he took by force, with a few notable exceptions, but never kept much for himself always giving away almost everything of what he acquired. He'd need time to parse all this new information. He can't exactly do this with one half-naked wonder in his arms setting his blood on fire.
So there's a considerable delay before he's able to calm down enough to respond. Before he can think about anything else than throwing the boy on the couch and making mad love to him. But he's not here for that. Unless Waver would want it himself. Love is one thing Iskandar would never take by force.
"You're right. This is not a Grail War and I am your king. I should provide for you and not the other way round."
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And it tugs almost instantly at his animal instincts, just as much as his general desire and affection for his King. Right now, it's just much harder to resist or control.
Waver breathes in deeply, nosing along the underside of Iskandar's jaw. His tongue slides over skin, just the briefest flick of wet warmth, gone again in a moment.
"Mmm... 's okay," he mumbles, heart beating fast.
"We can provide for... each other..."
Increasing excitement means he has a harder time controlling his changes too, and they're not all physical. The need hits him with a suddenness that leaves Waver aching, the moon-madness surging through his veins the moment he starts to give into it, unraveling his convictions and urging him to indulge. Obey his instincts. Lay claim to what's his.
His breath is hot along Iskandar's skin as Waver opens his mouth, tongue sliding briefly along the curve between his neck and shoulder until he hits the collar of Iskandar's shirt. And there, he bites down, sharp canine teeth easily piercing through whatever cloth is in the way-- and if Iskandar doesn't stop him, through to the flesh beneath. Not hard, of course. Well, not too hard. But if he draws blood, it probably isn't on accident.
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He can feel it too. The warmth, the need. It's like an underground river coursing underneath, seeking a way out. Invisible and yet present. He hums with contentment feeling Waver's tongue on his neck.
When did you get so bold?
It's not a question that needs answering so he doesn't even bother asking it. The answer won't change a thing and Iskandar is already more than delighted with the result.
The pain is nothing. Or rather it's all the permission Iskandar needs to lift Waver's chin and lean down for a kiss. So delicious. He can still taste his own blood, sharp and metallic, on the boy's lips.
"Careful there. I've heard that witch's blood can be addictive."
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He lifts himself up into the kiss with ferocious enthusiasm. Waver squirms around in Iskandar's lap until he's straddling it, facing him with both hands on those broad shoulders as if to hold him in place. As if Iskandar might change his mind and stop kissing him as fervently as Waver kisses back.
Generally, Waver tries to keep his claws trimmed so they don't scratch anyone or catch on things or get in the way at work. Around the time of the full moons and especially tonight, there's absolutely no trying to keep them in check. If he pricks Iskandar's shoulders through his shirt, it's only because it's inevitable.
The warning is met only with a vague growl, muffled against Iskandar's tongue. Waver's teeth are still very sharp, but there's nothing he can do about that, and he's certainly not trying to be careful with his hungry, desperate kisses.
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Which is why he walks straight into Waver. Whoops.]
A-Ah! I'm sorry, I didn't see you there-!
[No shit Emil, your eyes are covered by bandages.]
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[ It's a good thing Emil is small... even smaller than Waver actually?? Otherwise he'd definitely have sent the other boy sprawling, since Waver also wasn't watching where he was going, nose in a book like an idiot.
Thankfully, it doesn't hurt that much-- but he does drop the book with a muffled curse, scrambling to catch it and failing. There's an audible flop. ]
Dammit!
[ As if it's not halfway Waver's fault...
He bends down to grab the book, fussing over bent pages, and finally looks up. ]
Why don't you watch where you're--
...going?
[ UH. WHOOPS. Okay, now he feels bad. ]
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I really didn't mean to bump into you, I promise!
[Which, considering the bandages around his eyes, it's clear he's telling the truth.]
Ah...are your things okay?
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[ A little bent, but uh. hopefully the Coven library won't notice? or mind too much? Maybe there's a Witch around who can help him discreetly restore it.
Anyway. Waver dusts off the book and tucks it under his arm, looking back over at the stranger sheepishly. He's the one who should have been watching where he was going. Barreling into a blind kid is not a good look.]
Sorry. You all right?