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+---- Thread: [SE] morning mist and silver sun (/showthread.php?tid=10305)
morning mist and silver sun - Lena - 11-01-2024
In hindsight, perhaps it’d been a good thing that Lena traveled lightly since her days of living in the Tower – it made it that much easier to move. Hastening and snagging other materials, furniture, and necessities had certainly taken up much more of her time, and by the hours of arranging everything into the comfy, snug, and cozy little home, she was more than ready to be outside, in the midst of one of her favorite places.
The garden was exactly what she’d wanted out of all of it – wide enough for ample rows and winding lanes – some, she’d planned for eventual seasons, to be enriched by flowers and moss, and others for herbs. What she couldn’t cultivate in the Celestine, she’d end up maneuvering here, and between the multitude of plots and horticulture, she might have a booming and blooming venture for mending and tending the animals, the Dragoons, and arrangements to simply disappear within.
Luckily there’d already been some portions planted before she’d acquired the place, so she worked plucking at weeds while she could – in some few hours between Celestine duties, dropping off herb parcels at the guild, and meeting times – but before long she’d glanced upwards at the sun and shook her head, figuring Zavien would be by shortly.
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Zavien - 11-03-2024
There was a thin undertone of nerves as Zavien made his way through the city. Mostly excitement, but still a kernel of worry that he might screw things up. Sol seemed to catch onto it, nuzzling his head against his cheek to bring about a smile. The Dragoon chuckled, shifting his weight from the growing dragon that still liked to perch on his shoulder. He'd already grown about fifty percent, his tail lengthening slightly and small horn nubs pushing through his head, but the golden dragon hadn't quite matured with his size, eyes darting to look at their surroundings as they walked down the street. Zavien chuckled, laying a hand on Sol's head. [Say]"Were almost there."[/say] At least he thought they were. Didn't Lena say it was around her somewhere?
Anxiety started to build for a different reason as he searched the buildings for any signs of the Caretaker, yet nothing stood out. Had he taken a wrong turn? Or maybe he'd misheard the directions? Running a hand through his hair, Zavien paused to get a better look at where he was, and come up with a plan if he really was lost. But just then, he noticed a budding garden out of the corner of his eye. Fleshly churned dirt and new plants decorated the front part of a charming house. Before he even saw Lena's head pop above the stalks of various flora, he was already making his way forward, a smile on his face. [Say]"I know you're excited, but I thought you were supposed to wait for me before you got started? I sure hope you didn't move all your furniture by yourself."[/say] Zavien raised a scrutinizing eyebrow, even as a playful gleam entered his green eyes.
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Lena - 11-03-2024
She could hear him before she saw him, and she was already laughing as she straightened out one of the beds, raising her garden-gloved hands in defense. [say]“I left the living room just for you,”[/say] because after moving some multitudes of furniture in her bedroom and the kitchen, her muscles had had enough; and were more than willing to partake in wedding and plucking, rather than shifting one more large, overbearing couch.
As Mittens burst out of some flowers, clearly intending to antagonize Sol into some kind of game, Lena made her way over to the fence, lifting the latch to let Zavien through the threshold. [say]“Welcome!”[/say] She waved her arms about – pointing towards the sanction she’d started – and once she glanced in that direction, her mind was already imagining a bench or a swing in one section…a birdbath in another…
Swinging her attention back to him, she grinned again, all radiance and incandescence, soil smudged across one of her cheeks. [say]“Would you like the grand tour?”[/say]
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Zavien - 11-03-2024
Lena's laugh pushed away any motivation to chastize her. He chose instead to hum, pretending to consider the acceptability of the situation. [Say]"Hmm...I guess that'll have to do."[/say] As Mittens popped up like a daisy of its own, Sol chirped in delight, finally freeing Zavien's shoulder from its growing burden as he dove into the garden. A light push on the bond served as a precaution to protect the dedication that had gone into the space. The little dragon could play, but no destroying plants.
Praying that his companion listened, Zavien stepped through the gate with ease, admiring the work she'd already accomplished in the short amount of time. [say]"Wow. You've done a great job."[/say] His untrained eyes didn't see the progress still to be made, only appreciating the obvious signs of her efforts, like the state of her appearance as he looked back to her.
Finding the brush of soil charming and perfectly Lena, he didn't comment on its presence, smiling brightly instead. [Say]"Of course! Maybe we can find a place for these."[/say] He produced a bouquette from behind his back, bursting with colors. Zavien had no idea what any of them were, but the shop owner had been insistent that they were perfect for a house-warming gift.
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Lena - 11-04-2024
Her brow arched at his acceptance, but as he hadn’t seen the mess yet…she simply grinned thereafter. While the companions played, and she trusted both to not maul or destroy anything she’d been cultivating, she swept towards the door nearby, placing her gardening gloves in her apron. [say]“Thank you.”[/say] Her eyes went over the surroundings again, content for the moment, but with many endeavors floating through her head. [say]“There’s lots more to be done, but it’s nice to have the space for it.”[/say] Nothing she would’ve had in her once-apartment in the Tower, save for some window boxes on the balcony, and the Celestine had its own prizes and merits.
Picturing a thousand other projects, she opened the door for him to proceed, before the bouquet was outstretched before her – and her grin expanded by the array of colors and varieties. Delighted and melting at his thoughtfulness, an emboldened venture ensured she placed a swift kiss on his cheek. [say]“They’re perfect. I know just the place,”[/say] and then she permitted them access to the kitchen.
It was a cozy space – and though she hadn’t put everything together yet, it was also one of her favored places in the home. Mixers, pots, and pans had been put where they’d fit, cabinets stored with spices and confections for future baking and cooking, and while she looked around for a proper vase, high on a shelf, her eyes caught something she’d left on the counter for just this purpose. [say]“Oh, take a look at these,”[/say] and she handed him six large white cards, with her writing neatly, and expertly printed upon them. He’d be able to see that they were recipes for a variety of meals, simplistic, but something he’d be able to do on his own, when he wanted home cooked nourishment. She’d seen his burnt pots and pans. While filling the glass vessel with water, she hummed and explained. [say]“I did some research – sometimes things are easier to read when they’re written in a certain way,”[/say] indicative of her alternative style, clear and concise for his eyes to track and utilize. Wondering if she’d stepped too far, she tilted her head to watch his expression. [say]“If you don’t want to use them, that’s fine too. Or I can make more.”[/say]
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Zavien - 11-05-2024
Leaving Sol to his contained antics, Zavien tried to see what Lena saw, scanning for what could possibly be improved. And although he still didn't see it, he gave her a [say]"Well, it's a good thing you've got extra hands to help!"[/say] He'd be here all day - all week - if she needed. Whatever would help make her home everything she'd dreamed of.
As he made his way through the gate, Zavien took the kiss on the cheek with all the grace of a balloon, turning bright red and swaying like a breeze might knock him over. A squeak may have even sounded as he cleared his throat to respond. [say]"That's great."[/say] Luckily, she was flitting through the door, leading the way, hopefully missing the bashful look on his face. A note was definitely made in his mind to bring flowers as a habit.
Following her into the kitchen, Zavien admired the cozy atmosphere that fit her personality so well while taking note of any pieces that still needed assembling. He nearly asked where to start before she was presenting him with something. Accepting the cards, curiosity twinged at what they might be for. As she spoke, he realized that he didn't have to strain as hard to read the words, surprised to see ingredients, measurements, and steps for different meals easily legible. His smile was excited and completely sincere as he looked back at her. [say]"These are really great, Lena! Thank you."[/say] There weren't any signs of offense or overstepping, but Zavien did feel nervous. He didn't think he'd be able to do the recipes any justice; after all, he could probably burn water even if given the proper directions. Laughing lightly to disguise the bit of vulnerability, he asked, [say]"Maybe you could walk me through a few of them at some point?"[/say]
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Lena - 11-06-2024
Her eyes widened, briefly teasing, while water filled the vase. [say]“Oh? Do you know a lot about gardening?”[/say] Considering their first meeting and flower discussions, she’d be very impressed if he’d learned some things in between. Shaking her head with amusement, at both his reaction to the peck and otherwise, she placed the blooming portions within – content as they now occupied the center-space of her counter.
Waiting to see his response to the notecards was another thing; half-expecting disinterest or rebuttal. When it wasn’t, her grin was radiant again, making a note in the back of her mind for other, future endeavors with the specific writing style. [say]“Sure. Pick and choose one and we can try some of it later.”[/say] She was itching to test out the new stove anyway – she’d probably have most of the ingredients on them anyway, and if not, it wouldn’t take much of an outing to go snag any remaining portions.
Pleased with those motions, she waved him over towards the living room. [say]“So here’s where I need the most help…,”[/say] pausing for effect – because he’d see the furniture had been placed within by workers, and left exactly that way. The couch, a light sage, had been bumped against the wall, while the matching armchair seemed to be abandoned on the other side. An adorning rug (complete with textiles of leaping luxere and frost foxes) was rolled up, far too heavy for her to lift on her own. A coffee table settled itself close to the rug, and then any matter of end tables were haphazardly strewn about. [say]“In my defense,”[/say] she started to utter, already laughing, [say]“the garden was much more interesting at the time.”[/say] She only grimaced slightly, once she also remembered the bookshelf lurking out in the hall.
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Zavien - 11-10-2024
Her question made him laugh because she obviously already knew the answer. [say]"Nooo.... but I'm a quick learner, and extra hands can't hurt, right?"[/say] Little did he know that they could if they were as large and clumsy as his, but the good intentions were there regardless, and who could resist the sweetly innocent puppy-dog-smile he gave her?
Tucking the cards into his shirt pocket, Zavien determined to pick one out later when he needed a moment to breathe. Until then, he would wait eagerly for the evening meal preparation. [say]"Perfect! Thank you."[/say] With Lena overseeing his work, he hoped that there might not be any damage or injuries, although the nerves still lingered about her seeing just how bad he was at cooking. At least there was time for him to exert any stress through physical movements, his muscles practically jumping at the opportunity.
The scattering of furniture and decor didn't intimidate the Dragoon in the slightest. He assessed the problem like a battlefield, taking in the specs of each item and how it would overlay with the others. Already moving to shift the rug, he spared Lena a confident smile. [say]"Don't worry about it. Leave this part to me."[/say] He may not be able to cook or garden, but shoving around large objects was child's play to him. Zavien made sure there wasn't anything in the way before he began unrolling the rug. [say]"Do you already know where you want everything placed?"[/say]
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Lena - 11-11-2024
She tried, with great difficulty, to refrain from laughing again at the sight of the innocent smile and ‘quick learner’ connotation combinations. [say]“Then you are going to love weeding.”[/say] Patting the top of his arm, and enjoying the feel of the muscles there, Lena floated onward, unaware of any pending unease over cooking, back into the dishevelment of the living room.
While she had been overwhelmed by the expanse, and perhaps her own overzealousness when it came to having furniture again, he took to it with aplomb. With no need to walk on eggshells, a steady breath of relief released from her lungs, and she placed her hands on her hips, surveying the room while he snagged at the rug. [say]“Most things. Rug definitely in the center.”[/say] She eyed several others pieces, trying to imagine it in her mind. [say]“Armchair and couch close to the fireplace…,”[/say] because she could figure collapsing and curling up there like a cat most days after work.[say] “Coffee table near those…end tables probably close at hand too.”[/say] Wrinkling her nose, the Caretaker pondered over the last complexity, beginning to walk over to the ends of the unfurled mat, assisting in flattening it out. [say]“Not sure about the bookshelf though. What do you think?”[/say]
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Zavien - 11-11-2024
'Weeding' didn't really sound like something he'd enjoy, and he wasn't sure he liked the gleam in Lena's eyes, but Zavien still shared a willing smile. [Say]"I guess we'll find out!"[/say] He left the possibility as something to discover later along with his pitiful affinity for cooking, focusing instead on the shifting of furniture.
Once Lena had finished laying out the specifications of her vision, Zavien shook his head, chuckling. [Say]"So you haven't thought about it at all."[/say] As he moved one of the end tables onto a corner of the rug, he considered where everything would sit in the room. The fireplace seemed to be a focal point, encouraging guests to congregate around its warmth. He didn't think Lena would want to travel far for her books. With that in mind, he nodded his head towards a nearby wall. [Say]"Maybe between the fireplace and the window?"[/say] It would keep them close while spreading things out along the wall. Meanwhile, he set about shifting the other pieces, easily lifting the coffee table and small armchair into their predestined places.
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Lena - 11-11-2024
Find out indeed, though Lena made a mental note to procure more gardening gloves.
She snorted and briefly stuck her tongue out at him at the insinuation, but then assisted in moving things around. Her imagination ran a little rampant thereafter, at the thought of storing plants everywhere, but then she’d get mildly distracted about the movement of his muscles and start thinking about other things. Once or twice she shook her head and managed to assist in rotating end tables and shifting couches, and then give over to studying the room again.
Stepping back from their proceedings, she hummed, eyes narrowing at the vision. [say]“That could work.”[/say] She didn’t want them to waste their time shifting it back and forth if it didn’t comply, but hopefully the notions would be efficient and noteworthy by the time they were through. Lena went to her now designated side of the furniture, hands wrapped around the wooden portions. [say]“All right, ready when you are.”[/say] Pausing momentarily as something else sparked into her brain, probably the luxere on the rug, she gave another massive grin.[say] “Oh, and remind me later! I found some trinkets to put in windows. Said to keep spirits away.” [/say]
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Zavien - 11-11-2024
The snort and playful tongue only had him grinning further, sticking out his tongue in retaliation. Then he was turning back to the work, straightenening the rug under his feet or tactufyll places items. Completely unaware of any ogling or plant scheming that may be occurring, Zavien diligently worked his way around the room. He pushed and pulled against different pieces while lifting the small ones fully off the ground. By the time Lena was standing at the bookshelf most of the furniture was in place. Only the couch remained, although that wouldn't take more than a powerful push or two. He wiped an arm across the perspiration building on his forehead, flashing her a satisfied smile. [Say]"Let's do it!"[/say] Zavien took his place across from her, giving her a nod.
While they moved the shelf into position, he kept the conversation going. [Say]"Oh smart! What kinds of trinkets?"[/say] With it being 'Ludo's season' and all, it was a good idea to ward off any naughty spirits that might disrupt the new home. It made him wonder if he should pick something up for himself on the way home, although Sol might be enough to scare them away all alone.
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Lena - 11-11-2024
With the bookshelf arranged, Lena pushed any fallen portions of her hair back up into the messy bun, content with the harmonization of the room. Cozy, comfy, snug, and pleasant, it would serve as an agreeable area of the house for not only herself, but also any guests – which was far more than what she had available in her Celestine office. [say]“This looks great.”[/say] Eventually she’d be able to store her books along the shelves, place plants and flowers clipped from her own garden…the fact that she hadn’t done this sooner bit at her; but trauma didn’t always make sense. [say]“Thank you,”[/say] she squeezed his arm, before tilting her head at the question.
[say]“Little luxere!” [/say]Utterly delighted by her findings, she breezed by, snagging at one of the many bags situated on the kitchen counter. [say]“They came in all kinds of different colors.”[/say] And would glow in the evening. [say]“If they can ward off LongNight monsters, I’m certain they can ward off spirits.”[/say] Well, their real-life counterparts anyway. [say]“You can take some too.”[/say] She’d certainly bought enough for a miniature herd.
Having forgotten her original intentions, sidelined by muscles and movement and the living room being finished, she breezily persisted, wandering further and turning to the left. [say]“And then down the hall…we have my room, the guest room, and the bathroom.” [/say]
RE: morning mist and silver sun - Zavien - 11-11-2024
Zavien didn't think it was fair that Lena looked as good as she did after all the work. Where did she get the right? He had to rip his eyes away from her, running a hand through his hair as he assessed the bookshelf placement. [Say]"Are you sure? We could move it again if you need?"[/say] He was partially joking, but he also wanted to make sure it was exactly where she wanted it, shown by the obvious glint in his eyes.
The adorable amount of excitement the followed forced Zavien to hide the majority of his smile, not wanting her to think he was laughing at her. Yet he couldn't resist the overwhelming level of attraction towards her infectious joy, a magnet too powerful to resist. He had to chuckle to keep his face from breaking apart. [Say]"They're definitely cute."[/say] And he meant more than just the glowing luxere as he shared a crooked smile with her. Reigning in the charm a little, he shrugged his shoulders. [Say]"If you have any extras then I might take you up on that, but let's make sure your house is protected first."[/say] That was his priority after all.
Then she was leading him down the hallway, finishing the promised tour with surprising succinctness. Zavien had to keep his eyes from lingering on a particular space, giving Lena a polite smile full of nothing but gentlemanly warmth. [Say]"It really is perfect, Lena. Just a few plants, and it'll be like a cozier version of the Celestine."[/say] The smile turned more playful as he pictured what she'd probably been imagining earlier, so much greenery that it looked more like a forest than a house.