"Alright then!" Iskandar says as he catches the boy's chin to hold him in place and make this kiss just a bit longer. He grins when they part content of his little victory.
"I'll leave in charge of setting up the board while I open the wine for us."
Or he would if he had an opener. The one that he failed to take from the kitchen because he was in too much of a hurry to greet the boy once he heard that he's back home finally.
"I'll be back in no time," he says rising from the sofa.
Of course Waver allows the kiss as long as Iskandar wants it. He couldn't look happier right now, laughing as Iskandar goes wandering off to look for, presumably, the wine opener. He could probably force it open but that risks wine all over the couch, so...
Waver takes his time setting up the chess board on the coffee table, nudging the tray to the side to make room. It really is beautifully made. He admires the pieces as he sets them up, and a few times pauses to rub the pendant hanging over his chest, smiling down at it in lingering awe.
Iskandar looks around the kitchen in case there's something else he forgot. Once they start the game, he doesn't want to stop just because he didn't check twice. But no, everything is in its place. The present, the cake, the glasses and the wine. Only the wine opener was not and that only because he got distracted by the boy coming home. He grabs and comes back to the room.
"Have you set up the board, hm? Which colour do you prefer?" he asks as he drops on the sofa next to the boy. He picks up one piece. The attention to detail, the painting, all the minuscule features carved into each one of them, everything is so perfect one might think it was really expensive.
It was not.
"I learned to play in India. My friend, Porus, had a set with pieces made of ivory and ebony. It was nice. But I like this set better."
He puts the piece down. That's why he asked that the knights are made to resemble real horsemen and the rooks warriors on elephants.
"I had it made by a guy I met. He's really talented. I should take you one day so you can see his sculptures."
"I'll take white," Waver decides immediately, too eager. Going first is always good, right?
"It really is incredibly sculpted. I'd like to see the rest of the artist's works, sure!" Especially if they go together. He's too happy to even try to be coy about it or make a show of thinking it over first. The idea of spending more time with Iskandar wandering around the city is always a good one.
"--ah, but while you pour, d'you mind if I change real quick?" He lifts a hand, showing some bright blue spatter on the sleeve of his white shirt. It'll keep distracting him.
It won't take him long. Waver returns quickly, just as bright-eyed and bushy-tailed (literally) as a few minutes ago, except wearing something more casual in the form of loose trousers and an untucked, softer shirt left unbuttoned at the top. More comfortable in general... and also suddenly with far fewer belts and buttons in the way if they bore of chess at some point. He's thinking ahead.
Waver flops down on the sofa again and reaches for a wine glass, raising it in a toast to clink against Rider's.
...and he really can't wait to see what kind of opening move Waver will make. There are so many possibilities and Waver said he played before so that makes Iskandar only more curious.
He just waves at Waver's question. Of course, he would like to change into something more comfortable when he's home and Iskandar definitely appreciates having fewer layers to deal with later. While it's impossible to bore him with chess that's not his whole plan for the evening.
He waits before Waver sits and picks up his own glass. Iskandar is not a great fan of glassware. He might have lost his inhuman strength but glasses are still way too fragile for his liking. He wouldn't mind a good solid kylix or even a goblet. If only he could find one in this city. They think pants are the height of fashion so he's not putting much faith in it.
"I'm glad you like it," he says and follows the toast with a kiss.
It is a bit of a rare sight, for him to be showing it so openly. Less of a rarity for Iskandar, though, as compared to most other people.
Waver kisses back and takes a drink.
"It's perfect."
He doesn't know much about wine, but it tastes pretty good, the flavor taking a bit of getting used to but actually enjoyable after a few sips. Far better than that beer he'd tried with Ozymandias...
For now, he sets the glass down and scoots away from Iskandar. The only bad part about this is that it works better if they're sitting more across from each other instead of next to one another. Ah, well.
Waver remains on the couch but scoots over to the other side so he can sit on the edge, sort of facing his side of the table. He leans an elbow on his knee, supporting his chin in his hand.
"I go first, right?" He already knows that, though. Even as he's saying it, Waver reaches out and moves one of his center pawns forward two spaces, watching Iskandar's face.
Iskandar grins. He had no reason to believe Waver wouldn't like anything he prepared, why would he, but he's still content with the result. Even more with the fact that he was able to keep all his preparations a secret.
He'd be most happy if they could play video games together. The locals have neither the technology nor even the knowledge of the concept of a video game altogether. That is sad, he misses video games, but chess is good too. He watches as Waver makes his opening move.
"Classic," he says.
His own move is a bit more unusual. Riskier for sure. If he ever had a chance to study famous chess plays, if he knew it was even a thing and how well documented it was, he'd know he didn't invent this tactic.
"I must admit I'm curious where did you learn to play chess," he asks.
Someone should tell him that that's a game that requires concentration. Or maybe he's using the distraction as part of his strategy? Who knows.
Does he also not realize that chess is a fairly common game even in Waver's time? Maybe. Though in fairness, it's been a while since Waver played. He knows what he's doing, technically, but he's not exactly a chess master. He'll be satisfied if he can hold his own for a while, even if he doesn't win.
He does not. The Grail had imparted him enough of the knowledge of the modern world to be able to communicate with his Master move around without hindrance but not more. There were so many things he was regularly astonished by. Waver could probably name quite a few himself.
Iskandar claps his hands.
"A book about chess?!" he exclaims and his eyes light up "That must have been a fascinating read! I remember when Porus explained the rules to me and I thought this game would be easy. The rules can't be simpler. Alas, I was so wrong!" he laughs. "He completely destroyed me on that first try."
"The rules are simple enough, so it's all about the strategy!" Obviously. Waver grins, excited to see Iskandar so pleased-- not that it's that much of a rarity, but still. He's happy. The good mood is infectious.
"And psyching out your opponent, like poker... I bet you think you're gonna win."
In fairness, it's very likely, but Waver's determined to try his best. It would be fun to overthrow those expectations.
The game progresses at a steady clip, Waver watching Iskandar's face as carefully as he watches the board. By the time he finishes his glass of wine, his smile has turned sly.
"Hey, what if we bet on it? What'll you give me if you lose?"
Iskandar had more than one glass of wine and if he had to be completely honest with himself he has trouble concentrating on the game. Waver made a couple of mistakes that should have ended in a total defeat if only Iskandar had noticed them in time. He didn't. He was too distracted by the way Waver's hair now falls almost to his shoulders or how his ears twitch when he is thinking. It wouldn't be the first time he lost a game because the opponent was more interesting than the game itself. It's almost unfair that the boy is so adorable.
"A bet, hm?"
That sly smile doesn't help his concentration.
"It depends. What would you like to get?"
He knows what he would like to get if he wins. He'd probably get it anyway but winning always feels nice.
Waver's not above bribery in this case, especially considering it's really a win-win situation for him no matter what. But if he can tease Rider into letting his guard down and win, he'll be able to rub it in his face for ages.
Waver's lips turn down in a pout. One of his legs stretches out, toes poking at Iskandar's calf across the couch.
"That's rude, turning the question back around on me when I asked it first."
There's no doubt they're thinking the same thing, though.
"But... hmm..."
Waver makes a show of thinking it over, turning back to the board for a minute and finally moving his piece. By the time he looks up, it seems his glass has been refilled, so Waver takes another swig.
"If I win, you'll have to..."
He flushes, still considering what to say. It's not that he doesn't know what he wants, but he's not sure how to phrase it as a 'losing' condition for Iskandar. And even if he's a bit tipsy and the wine has loosened his inhibitions enough to think of wanting to entice Iskandar outright, actually doing it is a more troublesome matter.
...so instead he just blurts the first thing that comes to mind, which in retrospect isn't helpful at all for his embarrassment.
"You'll do as I say for the rest of the night! A-and if I lose, then we'll do the opposite."
Wait, is this supposed to encourage Rider to lose or to work harder at beating him?
Iskandar catches Waver's ankle the moment it's in his reach. He is not above taking hostages in this case.
"Rude maybe," he says but waits patiently for Waver to make up his mind.
If the boy wants to be dramatic about it his choice. It's his birthday after all and Iskandar has already planned to spoil him terribly. He uses the time that Waver is thinking to refill their glasses.
When Waver finally states his conditions, Iskandar chuckles. He still hasn't let go of Waver's ankle and he absolutely revels in the sight of that blush. It just takes the adorable to impossible levels. He almost can't stand it.
"You know," he says as he leans down to plant a kiss on the top Waver's foot. "I can be quite creative myself" and another one of Waver's ankle "but I was curious" another one just above "do you have any special" another one a little higher "requests." and the last one on his knee.
He grins looking straight at Waver.
"I see that you do and it almost makes me wonder if I really want to win. Just to see what you'll come up with."
Almost. Iskandar sits up releasing Waver's ankle with the smuggest smile in the history of mankind. Of course, he wants to win. He always wants to win. He doesn't always win but he always wants to.
"But I propose an additional condition to that bet. Just to make things more interesting."
He takes a sip of wine. Can he ever grin wider? A challenge worthy of King of Conquerors.
"For every major piece you lose you will take off one article of clothing. Same goes for me. Just the major pieces, pawns don't count."
Waver's not the only one who's dramatic. Iskandar's the one who wanted to get a jet and fight Bill Clinton. Waver is the more whiny one, though.
He makes such a noise now, wriggling ticklishly when Iskandar grabs his foot to bring it up to his lips. It necessitates Waver scooting a bit closer, too. His legs are short.
Even through his lounge pants, Iskandar's kisses make Waver's blush deepen; he can too easily imagine him going further, and with no clothes in the way. The intensity of Iskandar's gaze and his grin make Waver's heart jump. He stammers, quickly pulling his leg back as soon as it's released, with a (very) light kick to the side of Iskandar's thigh for good measure before he scoots out of easy reach again.
Flustered, he reaches for his glass again, the opposite of Iskandar's calm, pleased demeanor. The way he's lounging and smirking reminds Waver distinctly of a large, predatory cat. He doesn't... dislike it.
"Okay... fine," he huffs. Despite the grumbling, Waver is plenty incentivized. He's never played Strip Chess before, but it doesn't sound half bad if he can be rewarded with Iskandar losing his clothes.
"And the person who takes the piece gets to choose the clothing."
No being boring and starting with socks. Listen, Waver might be embarrassed while he's doing it, but he's getting pretty into the idea of this kind of game -- with Iskandar, specifically. Maybe the wine is catching up to him faster than he realizes.
Well, that he did. Nobody can say that a a particular American president would be a shoddy opponent. Or at least Iskandar hopes he wouldn't. It would be sad for a leader of such an empire if he were. And fighter jets are simply awesome. He still thinks that.
Politics aside, they both have a sense of theatrics. That's just part of the fun. Though on Waver's side it's more flailing limbs and complaining a lot. But it has its charm. It definitely works on Iskandar. He just laughs off that kick. Flailing limbs. Impossibly cute.
"Fair enough," he says "I accept that condition."
They would both lose their clothes somewhere during that evening eventually. Not a single doubt about it. Still, simply undressing is just boring and today is the day for indulgence so Iskandar really wants to go full extravagant.
It's also his turn so he makes his move. Did he just put Waver's rook in danger? Because it really looks like his plan is not only to win now but to take as many of Waver's pieces as he can. For now, he's just grinning at Waver over his wine glass and waiting for his reaction.
This is going to come back and bite Waver in the butt, isn't it...
Waver huffs, leaning forward to get closer to the board. His brow furrows in concentration, ears swiveling forward as he focuses. At least he does notice that his rook is in danger. Defensive and offensive strategy at once is needed; Waver moves one of his knights to defend.
And takes another drink as he sits back, satisfied, turning his attention from the board to Iskandar once more.
Iskandar laughs. This going a lot better than he expected. It was totally a spur of the moment decision but it pays off beautifully.
"Such thought never crossed my mind. I am expecting a challenge."
He studies the board contemplating different moves. The one he chooses is surprising at best. It does mean Waver is going to lose exactly that knight he used to defend his rook before. It also means that Iskandar is risking his own knight by doing so. He could have done at least three other things without compromising himself. He didn't. So that's odd. Odd or rather he has another agenda here.
"Your knight is mine," he says striking the piece from the board. "Now, what I would like you to take off, hm..." His voice closer to a satisfied purr than ever before. He's watching Waver for a long while, his gaze wandering along the lines of Waver's body as if he really hasn't decided yet. Of course, he has. He's just prolonging it for his own selfish pleasure.
Waver had seen that the knight could be taken but judged it unlikely since doing so opens up an opportunity for Waver to take his piece in turn. Color him surprised.
Then again, maybe that should have been the first thing he expected. Iskandar already looks like he just wants to take the rest of Waver's clothing off immediately. He flushes, embarrassed by the way Iskandar is staring so intently at his body, squirming a little as the time drags on and Iskandar is just watching him with that hungry look in his eyes.
But a deal's a deal. Waver exhales when he's finally told to start with his shirt and moves to unbutton it the rest of the way and pull it off.
"Are you sure you're not trying to lose?" he grumbles as he does so, draping it over the back of the couch when he's done. Maybe this was a bad plan. Recently showered as he is and having decided to be comfortable, Waver's wearing far fewer articles of clothing than usual. It's just his shirt, trousers and underwear. He didn't even put on socks.
In other words, he can only lose two more pieces before he's playing fully nude. Whoops.
Motivated by embarrassment now, in addition to wanting to prove he won't be an easy opponent, Waver turns back to the board. Iskandar probably expects him to take that knight he endangered to grab Waver's, but he'll have to make sure it's not a trap, leading him into losing his bishop next...
Shirtless, Waver leans forward once more, staring intently at the board with one hand cupping his chin thoughtfully. Finally, when he's sure it can't be a trap, he moves to take Iskandar's knight in turn.
"There. Now we're even." He looks up, pointing at Iskandar demandingly.
Iskandar laughs again. The view is superb. He could watch Waver undress the whole day. Well, not. Of course, he wouldn't like only to watch. That's more of a figure of speech of how much he appreciates it. It doesn't take a thing from the sight. It is splendid. All the embarassment just making the boy cuter. And he thought it was impossible. Oh, the marvels of the world...
"Why would I even consider such a thing?" he asks, a content smile never leaving his lips.
Contrary to Waver Iskandar did count how many clothes he has on him on this day before making his suggestion. This is a rare occasion that he actually is the one having more of them. So losing a shirt doesn't cost him much. He still has trousers, socks, shoes and underwear. And a belt in his trousers if he really wanted to be nitpicky. Debatable if a belt should be counted as a separate item of clothing. Though it would be funny if he were to end in his socks and shoes only.
"As you command," he says with a grin as he unbuttons his shirt. Not unreasonably slow but he's not in a hurry either.
His next move is far more rational. Well, he still has a game to win. Can't concentrate only on undressing Waver. Even if it's pretty much his priority now.
It is kind of fun to hear Iskandar say that. Waver grins back, and leans comfortably against the couch to watch him as he sips his wine, making as much of a show as he can of it as Iskandar did to him. He's still the one who gets more embarrassed staring like this, but he also is enjoying it, even if it makes his cheeks glow bright red. Maybe that's also partially the wine, though.
"I do command," he laughs, reaching out to grab Iskandar's shirt from him as soon as it's off and drape it over his side of the couch with his own. As if Iskandar might try to put it back on or something (there's no risk of that).
"Ah. That's a better view."
He might be blushing, but the wine is definitely making Waver bolder. Rather, it's helping him blurt out what he's thinking instead of being too shy to actually say it aloud.
Oh, Waver. You know he said that on purpose. Iskandar is laughing too when Waver snatches the shirt from him. Not that he had any plans for it himself. Other than throwing it into the laundry basket the next day maybe? Nothing for this evening for certain. But the sole fact that Waver did it? That he doesn't avert his gaze or try to hide that he takes pleasure in looking at his king with less clothes on? That's joy beyond words.
Waver might be red from head to toe but Iskandar's grin could probably light half the city. Wine or not, they are making progress.
"I might argue that it is I who has a better view because you, my dearest boy, are a beauty."
Not that Iskandar thinks he himself lacks anything. Quite the contrary. He just likes what he sees very, very much. He would like it even more if he took Waver's pants off. The boy has simply gorgeous thighs. Hm. He will. All in its time. There are rules to this game after all.
Waver's already quite red, and yet he manages to blush even more at the shameless complimenting from Iskandar. His tail twitches, not quite wagging but close.
He doesn't know how to respond to that though, so Waver mumbles something under his breath that might have been some sort of thanks and immediately takes another swig of his wine. He's almost out. Again.
--right. His move.
"Yeah, yeah... Don't be so impatient."
Waver's ears twitch, one of them turning toward Iskandar even while he's looking over the chessboard for his next move, unable to stop paying attention to him entirely. It's hard to concentrate with Iskandar staring like this.
Finally, he manages a move. He might lose a pawn if Iskandar decides to go for it, but if that's the case and he takes the bait, Waver does have a plan a few moves down the line. If he can remember it by the time he gets there. If he can keep track of it past the hot feeling of Iskandar's eyes so intently following his every breath.
"Y-you don't have to stare like that... Is there something on my face?"
Without a single word of warning, he's on his knees hovering over Waver, studying his face with a focused gaze. One hand on the back of the couch and the other gripping the cushions on Waver's side. Their bodies mere inches apart. So close that Waver can feel the heat radiating from his Bonded.
Then he is gone, returned to his previous position as abruptly as he moved before. As if he never left his place. He flashes a grin at Waver and answering the question that he knows well was not even a question at all.
"No, I have checked and can confirm with utmost sincerity that there is not."
And no, he doesn't take the bait. It was tempting but he's got a better idea. Only two pieces left and then he can go straight for the win. The impenetrable wall he has crafted around his major pieces has just one opening. Is he is setting a trap of his own there?
Maybe. Or maybe he's too concentrated on watching how Waver's chest moves up and down with his quickened breath. Or how his skin's reddish tint creeps from his cheeks down onto his neck and up to his ears. Making him look as if he just stopped to catch his breath after a bout of physical exertion.
Waver scrambles back before he can help himself, crowded into the corner between the back of the couch and the armrest with Iskandar's arm braced across his open side as if cutting off all escape routes. Which he's allowed to do in the game, not in person. This is cheating!
"H-hey... what're you...?" Waver's eyes meet the intense look in his Bonded's, unable to do anything else. He's transfixed, pinned by Iskandar's gaze as surely as he is by his body so close it seems as though Iskandar might just abandon their board game in the next few moments and get to work on Waver as dessert.
Waver might be the one more with the claws and fangs, but his heart's beating like a prey animal's right now.
--but then, Rider is gone. Back to his side of the couch, a respectable distance separating them once more and the air between them growing cooler as Waver tentatively sits back up. He's still staring, dumbfounded, even as Iskandar's attention shifts back to the board.
"...Rider! That's not funny!"
Waver kind of wants to reach over and smack him, but closing the distance again may be too distracting. He's still intent on winning the old-fashioned way.
"Don't play dirty tricks!"
Distracting him by being too handsome counts.
Waver reaches across to move his piece with an indignant click, ditching his plan to try to lure Iskandar into having to focus on his pawns and going straight for the first opening he sees instead.
Iskandar shoots him another grin that maybe, possibly, by some miracle or divine intervention, could verge into the category of being innocent ... if only it wasn't so predatory.
"Oh? Dirty tricks? What dirty tricks? I am deeply wounded by your accusation." he exclaims in a hurt tone. Oh, the injustice! Such a terrible slander! Waver might have an easier time believing him if he actually managed to say this with a straight face and not grinning like a maniac.
But can he really help himself? He'd really like that dessert. It looks so delicious. Positively mouth-watering. He worked hard to make this evening special for Waver. Doesn't he deserve his reward? That later. He can wait. Anticipation is a spice for the patient. It can elevate any experience. Make it taste so much sweeter.
So instead of moving in to devour this beautiful boy, as all his instincts in unison urge him to do, Iskandar just moves a piece on the board. A knight. Out of Waver's way. Making him space to move forward. Luring him further in, deeper into the enemy territory. Would he realize it's a trap? Perhaps. It matters not. It's too late anyway. He can't really go back, can he?
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no subject
"I'll leave in charge of setting up the board while I open the wine for us."
Or he would if he had an opener. The one that he failed to take from the kitchen because he was in too much of a hurry to greet the boy once he heard that he's back home finally.
"I'll be back in no time," he says rising from the sofa.
Now, where did he put the cursed thing?
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Waver takes his time setting up the chess board on the coffee table, nudging the tray to the side to make room. It really is beautifully made. He admires the pieces as he sets them up, and a few times pauses to rub the pendant hanging over his chest, smiling down at it in lingering awe.
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Iskandar looks around the kitchen in case there's something else he forgot. Once they start the game, he doesn't want to stop just because he didn't check twice. But no, everything is in its place. The present, the cake, the glasses and the wine. Only the wine opener was not and that only because he got distracted by the boy coming home. He grabs and comes back to the room.
"Have you set up the board, hm? Which colour do you prefer?" he asks as he drops on the sofa next to the boy. He picks up one piece. The attention to detail, the painting, all the minuscule features carved into each one of them, everything is so perfect one might think it was really expensive.
It was not.
"I learned to play in India. My friend, Porus, had a set with pieces made of ivory and ebony. It was nice. But I like this set better."
He puts the piece down. That's why he asked that the knights are made to resemble real horsemen and the rooks warriors on elephants.
"I had it made by a guy I met. He's really talented. I should take you one day so you can see his sculptures."
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"It really is incredibly sculpted. I'd like to see the rest of the artist's works, sure!" Especially if they go together. He's too happy to even try to be coy about it or make a show of thinking it over first. The idea of spending more time with Iskandar wandering around the city is always a good one.
"--ah, but while you pour, d'you mind if I change real quick?" He lifts a hand, showing some bright blue spatter on the sleeve of his white shirt. It'll keep distracting him.
It won't take him long. Waver returns quickly, just as bright-eyed and bushy-tailed (literally) as a few minutes ago, except wearing something more casual in the form of loose trousers and an untucked, softer shirt left unbuttoned at the top. More comfortable in general... and also suddenly with far fewer belts and buttons in the way if they bore of chess at some point. He's thinking ahead.
Waver flops down on the sofa again and reaches for a wine glass, raising it in a toast to clink against Rider's.
"Thank you. I love it, everything."
And you, his eyes clearly add.
no subject
"It's your birthday, you get to choose."
...and he really can't wait to see what kind of opening move Waver will make. There are so many possibilities and Waver said he played before so that makes Iskandar only more curious.
He just waves at Waver's question. Of course, he would like to change into something more comfortable when he's home and Iskandar definitely appreciates having fewer layers to deal with later. While it's impossible to bore him with chess that's not his whole plan for the evening.
He waits before Waver sits and picks up his own glass. Iskandar is not a great fan of glassware. He might have lost his inhuman strength but glasses are still way too fragile for his liking. He wouldn't mind a good solid kylix or even a goblet. If only he could find one in this city. They think pants are the height of fashion so he's not putting much faith in it.
"I'm glad you like it," he says and follows the toast with a kiss.
It's a joy beyond words to see Waver so happy.
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Waver kisses back and takes a drink.
"It's perfect."
He doesn't know much about wine, but it tastes pretty good, the flavor taking a bit of getting used to but actually enjoyable after a few sips. Far better than that beer he'd tried with Ozymandias...
For now, he sets the glass down and scoots away from Iskandar. The only bad part about this is that it works better if they're sitting more across from each other instead of next to one another. Ah, well.
Waver remains on the couch but scoots over to the other side so he can sit on the edge, sort of facing his side of the table. He leans an elbow on his knee, supporting his chin in his hand.
"I go first, right?" He already knows that, though. Even as he's saying it, Waver reaches out and moves one of his center pawns forward two spaces, watching Iskandar's face.
no subject
He'd be most happy if they could play video games together. The locals have neither the technology nor even the knowledge of the concept of a video game altogether. That is sad, he misses video games, but chess is good too. He watches as Waver makes his opening move.
"Classic," he says.
His own move is a bit more unusual. Riskier for sure. If he ever had a chance to study famous chess plays, if he knew it was even a thing and how well documented it was, he'd know he didn't invent this tactic.
"I must admit I'm curious where did you learn to play chess," he asks.
Someone should tell him that that's a game that requires concentration. Or maybe he's using the distraction as part of his strategy? Who knows.
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Does he also not realize that chess is a fairly common game even in Waver's time? Maybe. Though in fairness, it's been a while since Waver played. He knows what he's doing, technically, but he's not exactly a chess master. He'll be satisfied if he can hold his own for a while, even if he doesn't win.
"I read a guidebook when I was little..."
Surely he had a very exciting childhood.
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Iskandar claps his hands.
"A book about chess?!" he exclaims and his eyes light up "That must have been a fascinating read! I remember when Porus explained the rules to me and I thought this game would be easy. The rules can't be simpler. Alas, I was so wrong!" he laughs. "He completely destroyed me on that first try."
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"And psyching out your opponent, like poker... I bet you think you're gonna win."
In fairness, it's very likely, but Waver's determined to try his best. It would be fun to overthrow those expectations.
The game progresses at a steady clip, Waver watching Iskandar's face as carefully as he watches the board. By the time he finishes his glass of wine, his smile has turned sly.
"Hey, what if we bet on it? What'll you give me if you lose?"
As if he doesn't have enough presents already.
no subject
Iskandar had more than one glass of wine and if he had to be completely honest with himself he has trouble concentrating on the game. Waver made a couple of mistakes that should have ended in a total defeat if only Iskandar had noticed them in time. He didn't. He was too distracted by the way Waver's hair now falls almost to his shoulders or how his ears twitch when he is thinking. It wouldn't be the first time he lost a game because the opponent was more interesting than the game itself. It's almost unfair that the boy is so adorable.
"A bet, hm?"
That sly smile doesn't help his concentration.
"It depends. What would you like to get?"
He knows what he would like to get if he wins. He'd probably get it anyway but winning always feels nice.
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Waver's lips turn down in a pout. One of his legs stretches out, toes poking at Iskandar's calf across the couch.
"That's rude, turning the question back around on me when I asked it first."
There's no doubt they're thinking the same thing, though.
"But... hmm..."
Waver makes a show of thinking it over, turning back to the board for a minute and finally moving his piece. By the time he looks up, it seems his glass has been refilled, so Waver takes another swig.
"If I win, you'll have to..."
He flushes, still considering what to say. It's not that he doesn't know what he wants, but he's not sure how to phrase it as a 'losing' condition for Iskandar. And even if he's a bit tipsy and the wine has loosened his inhibitions enough to think of wanting to entice Iskandar outright, actually doing it is a more troublesome matter.
...so instead he just blurts the first thing that comes to mind, which in retrospect isn't helpful at all for his embarrassment.
"You'll do as I say for the rest of the night! A-and if I lose, then we'll do the opposite."
Wait, is this supposed to encourage Rider to lose or to work harder at beating him?
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"Rude maybe," he says but waits patiently for Waver to make up his mind.
If the boy wants to be dramatic about it his choice. It's his birthday after all and Iskandar has already planned to spoil him terribly. He uses the time that Waver is thinking to refill their glasses.
When Waver finally states his conditions, Iskandar chuckles. He still hasn't let go of Waver's ankle and he absolutely revels in the sight of that blush. It just takes the adorable to impossible levels. He almost can't stand it.
"You know," he says as he leans down to plant a kiss on the top Waver's foot. "I can be quite creative myself" and another one of Waver's ankle "but I was curious" another one just above "do you have any special" another one a little higher "requests." and the last one on his knee.
He grins looking straight at Waver.
"I see that you do and it almost makes me wonder if I really want to win. Just to see what you'll come up with."
Almost. Iskandar sits up releasing Waver's ankle with the smuggest smile in the history of mankind. Of course, he wants to win. He always wants to win. He doesn't always win but he always wants to.
"But I propose an additional condition to that bet. Just to make things more interesting."
He takes a sip of wine. Can he ever grin wider? A challenge worthy of King of Conquerors.
"For every major piece you lose you will take off one article of clothing. Same goes for me. Just the major pieces, pawns don't count."
Now they both have similar incentive to win.
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He makes such a noise now, wriggling ticklishly when Iskandar grabs his foot to bring it up to his lips. It necessitates Waver scooting a bit closer, too. His legs are short.
Even through his lounge pants, Iskandar's kisses make Waver's blush deepen; he can too easily imagine him going further, and with no clothes in the way. The intensity of Iskandar's gaze and his grin make Waver's heart jump. He stammers, quickly pulling his leg back as soon as it's released, with a (very) light kick to the side of Iskandar's thigh for good measure before he scoots out of easy reach again.
Flustered, he reaches for his glass again, the opposite of Iskandar's calm, pleased demeanor. The way he's lounging and smirking reminds Waver distinctly of a large, predatory cat. He doesn't... dislike it.
"Okay... fine," he huffs. Despite the grumbling, Waver is plenty incentivized. He's never played Strip Chess before, but it doesn't sound half bad if he can be rewarded with Iskandar losing his clothes.
"And the person who takes the piece gets to choose the clothing."
No being boring and starting with socks. Listen, Waver might be embarrassed while he's doing it, but he's getting pretty into the idea of this kind of game -- with Iskandar, specifically. Maybe the wine is catching up to him faster than he realizes.
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Politics aside, they both have a sense of theatrics. That's just part of the fun. Though on Waver's side it's more flailing limbs and complaining a lot. But it has its charm. It definitely works on Iskandar. He just laughs off that kick. Flailing limbs. Impossibly cute.
"Fair enough," he says "I accept that condition."
They would both lose their clothes somewhere during that evening eventually. Not a single doubt about it. Still, simply undressing is just boring and today is the day for indulgence so Iskandar really wants to go full extravagant.
It's also his turn so he makes his move. Did he just put Waver's rook in danger? Because it really looks like his plan is not only to win now but to take as many of Waver's pieces as he can. For now, he's just grinning at Waver over his wine glass and waiting for his reaction.
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Waver huffs, leaning forward to get closer to the board. His brow furrows in concentration, ears swiveling forward as he focuses. At least he does notice that his rook is in danger. Defensive and offensive strategy at once is needed; Waver moves one of his knights to defend.
And takes another drink as he sits back, satisfied, turning his attention from the board to Iskandar once more.
"Don't think it'll be that easy."
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"Such thought never crossed my mind. I am expecting a challenge."
He studies the board contemplating different moves. The one he chooses is surprising at best. It does mean Waver is going to lose exactly that knight he used to defend his rook before. It also means that Iskandar is risking his own knight by doing so. He could have done at least three other things without compromising himself. He didn't. So that's odd. Odd or rather he has another agenda here.
"Your knight is mine," he says striking the piece from the board. "Now, what I would like you to take off, hm..." His voice closer to a satisfied purr than ever before. He's watching Waver for a long while, his gaze wandering along the lines of Waver's body as if he really hasn't decided yet. Of course, he has. He's just prolonging it for his own selfish pleasure.
"I think the shirt would be a good start."
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Then again, maybe that should have been the first thing he expected. Iskandar already looks like he just wants to take the rest of Waver's clothing off immediately. He flushes, embarrassed by the way Iskandar is staring so intently at his body, squirming a little as the time drags on and Iskandar is just watching him with that hungry look in his eyes.
But a deal's a deal. Waver exhales when he's finally told to start with his shirt and moves to unbutton it the rest of the way and pull it off.
"Are you sure you're not trying to lose?" he grumbles as he does so, draping it over the back of the couch when he's done. Maybe this was a bad plan. Recently showered as he is and having decided to be comfortable, Waver's wearing far fewer articles of clothing than usual. It's just his shirt, trousers and underwear. He didn't even put on socks.
In other words, he can only lose two more pieces before he's playing fully nude. Whoops.
Motivated by embarrassment now, in addition to wanting to prove he won't be an easy opponent, Waver turns back to the board. Iskandar probably expects him to take that knight he endangered to grab Waver's, but he'll have to make sure it's not a trap, leading him into losing his bishop next...
Shirtless, Waver leans forward once more, staring intently at the board with one hand cupping his chin thoughtfully. Finally, when he's sure it can't be a trap, he moves to take Iskandar's knight in turn.
"There. Now we're even." He looks up, pointing at Iskandar demandingly.
"Take off your shirt."
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"Why would I even consider such a thing?" he asks, a content smile never leaving his lips.
Contrary to Waver Iskandar did count how many clothes he has on him on this day before making his suggestion. This is a rare occasion that he actually is the one having more of them. So losing a shirt doesn't cost him much. He still has trousers, socks, shoes and underwear. And a belt in his trousers if he really wanted to be nitpicky. Debatable if a belt should be counted as a separate item of clothing. Though it would be funny if he were to end in his socks and shoes only.
"As you command," he says with a grin as he unbuttons his shirt. Not unreasonably slow but he's not in a hurry either.
His next move is far more rational. Well, he still has a game to win. Can't concentrate only on undressing Waver. Even if it's pretty much his priority now.
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"I do command," he laughs, reaching out to grab Iskandar's shirt from him as soon as it's off and drape it over his side of the couch with his own. As if Iskandar might try to put it back on or something (there's no risk of that).
"Ah. That's a better view."
He might be blushing, but the wine is definitely making Waver bolder. Rather, it's helping him blurt out what he's thinking instead of being too shy to actually say it aloud.
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But the sole fact that Waver did it? That he doesn't avert his gaze or try to hide that he takes pleasure in looking at his king with less clothes on? That's joy beyond words.
Waver might be red from head to toe but Iskandar's grin could probably light half the city. Wine or not, they are making progress.
"I might argue that it is I who has a better view because you, my dearest boy, are a beauty."
Not that Iskandar thinks he himself lacks anything. Quite the contrary. He just likes what he sees very, very much. He would like it even more if he took Waver's pants off. The boy has simply gorgeous thighs. Hm. He will. All in its time. There are rules to this game after all.
"It's your move by the way."
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He doesn't know how to respond to that though, so Waver mumbles something under his breath that might have been some sort of thanks and immediately takes another swig of his wine. He's almost out. Again.
--right. His move.
"Yeah, yeah... Don't be so impatient."
Waver's ears twitch, one of them turning toward Iskandar even while he's looking over the chessboard for his next move, unable to stop paying attention to him entirely. It's hard to concentrate with Iskandar staring like this.
Finally, he manages a move. He might lose a pawn if Iskandar decides to go for it, but if that's the case and he takes the bait, Waver does have a plan a few moves down the line. If he can remember it by the time he gets there. If he can keep track of it past the hot feeling of Iskandar's eyes so intently following his every breath.
"Y-you don't have to stare like that... Is there something on my face?"
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"Hm?"
Without a single word of warning, he's on his knees hovering over Waver, studying his face with a focused gaze. One hand on the back of the couch and the other gripping the cushions on Waver's side. Their bodies mere inches apart. So close that Waver can feel the heat radiating from his Bonded.
Then he is gone, returned to his previous position as abruptly as he moved before. As if he never left his place. He flashes a grin at Waver and answering the question that he knows well was not even a question at all.
"No, I have checked and can confirm with utmost sincerity that there is not."
And no, he doesn't take the bait. It was tempting but he's got a better idea. Only two pieces left and then he can go straight for the win. The impenetrable wall he has crafted around his major pieces has just one opening. Is he is setting a trap of his own there?
Maybe. Or maybe he's too concentrated on watching how Waver's chest moves up and down with his quickened breath. Or how his skin's reddish tint creeps from his cheeks down onto his neck and up to his ears. Making him look as if he just stopped to catch his breath after a bout of physical exertion.
Like running.
Or sex.
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Waver scrambles back before he can help himself, crowded into the corner between the back of the couch and the armrest with Iskandar's arm braced across his open side as if cutting off all escape routes. Which he's allowed to do in the game, not in person. This is cheating!
"H-hey... what're you...?" Waver's eyes meet the intense look in his Bonded's, unable to do anything else. He's transfixed, pinned by Iskandar's gaze as surely as he is by his body so close it seems as though Iskandar might just abandon their board game in the next few moments and get to work on Waver as dessert.
Waver might be the one more with the claws and fangs, but his heart's beating like a prey animal's right now.
--but then, Rider is gone. Back to his side of the couch, a respectable distance separating them once more and the air between them growing cooler as Waver tentatively sits back up. He's still staring, dumbfounded, even as Iskandar's attention shifts back to the board.
"...Rider! That's not funny!"
Waver kind of wants to reach over and smack him, but closing the distance again may be too distracting. He's still intent on winning the old-fashioned way.
"Don't play dirty tricks!"
Distracting him by being too handsome counts.
Waver reaches across to move his piece with an indignant click, ditching his plan to try to lure Iskandar into having to focus on his pawns and going straight for the first opening he sees instead.
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"Oh? Dirty tricks? What dirty tricks? I am deeply wounded by your accusation." he exclaims in a hurt tone. Oh, the injustice! Such a terrible slander! Waver might have an easier time believing him if he actually managed to say this with a straight face and not grinning like a maniac.
But can he really help himself? He'd really like that dessert. It looks so delicious. Positively mouth-watering. He worked hard to make this evening special for Waver. Doesn't he deserve his reward? That later. He can wait. Anticipation is a spice for the patient. It can elevate any experience. Make it taste so much sweeter.
So instead of moving in to devour this beautiful boy, as all his instincts in unison urge him to do, Iskandar just moves a piece on the board. A knight. Out of Waver's way. Making him space to move forward. Luring him further in, deeper into the enemy territory. Would he realize it's a trap? Perhaps. It matters not. It's too late anyway. He can't really go back, can he?
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wrap?