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 Posted: Fri Apr 14, 2017 8:20 pm
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It was with a rather catlike grin that Leukos soaked up the applause from the spectators of another one of his finished routines here in Matori, trying to restrain the rise and fall of his chest to a controlled level even as his lungs cried out for more air after another rigorous performance. Heaving and huffing like a sweaty bellow in his costume wouldn’t exactly cast him in a very flattering light. He got up off the ground from the splits he had ended in, bowing to the crowd and smiling as he gathered up any gracious donations anyone was willing to part with.
The throng had already started to thin out considerably in the moments after he had finished as they went about continuing their day, Leukos taking the reprieve from all that attention to stretch his taught muscles in his back and wipe off his brow. It wasn’t considerably hot, not anything like back in Oba, but still warm enough to make working out in the sun a taxing endeavor.
He had just gotten a very satisfying crack out of back when Leukos spotted a young Matoran man lingering about still. He’d seen him earlier in the crowd as well, but it looked like he had stuck around after. He had half a mind to just ignore this fact and leave, having had a very unpleasant experience with the last spur-of-the-moment hookup he’d partaken in. But he was just so darn cute. And surely if he was more careful this time, he wouldn’t be so thoroughly duped. The boy looked harmless enough.
So he deposited the coin he’d earned into the purse he tucked away on his person and strode over to the stranger, smoothing some hair behind his head; if not to get it out of his face, at least the action did a lovely job of showing off his well-toned bicep. Two birds, one stone. His eyes flit down from the boy’s face, to the nice little décolletage his outfit provided. Very nice.
Leukos crossed his arms in a relaxed fashion, cocking his head slightly. “Were you looking to get a private performance now? I don’t usually make that an option, but I’d be willing to make an exception for a lovely thing such as yourself.” He grinned down at him and bowed slightly, some loose dark hair sliding over his broad shoulders. “Charmed to catch your interest. I’m Leukos.”
[1/10]
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Posted: Fri Apr 14, 2017 9:43 pm
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Niamh stared in awe at what had just transpired before him. The tantalizing twists of the human form; and a male form, at that. He had been looking for a distraction from the awful day he had been having, but never had he dreamed it would be so perfect, so on point, so... fantastic. Paralyzed by this man's performance, he realized he had lingered longer than the average spectator and his heart skipped with delight as their eyes met, 'He... noticed me?'
His heartbeat synchronized with each footfall as the Oban dressed performer approached. Not able to control his boy like grin, "A private performance~" he mused, a soft pink coloring his cheeks, "I couldn't allow that..." His tone dropped as he averted his gaze, "A gentleman should at least treat you to dinner before we become that well acquainted~" Returning his eyes, Niamh rocked on his heels, playing into the harmless flirt, "I'm Niamh," He added, "And it would be my pleasure to treat you if you were willing?"
It seemed hopeless to think Leukos would play into this attempt at flirting, but in this moment, Niamh couldn't turn away; couldn't pass up the hope that maybe, just maybe he would be willing to give this a try... If anything for the sheer amusement of his inexperienced fumblings.
MissMisnomer Holy Christ. I thought there was a space... and there isn't. My bad~ |
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Posted: Sun Apr 16, 2017 5:23 pm
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֍
'That... Worked?' Niamh chuckled to himself, still in disbelief he could have such luck, "I'm not sure how anyone could be prickly with you..." Leukos had an air about him, charming, trustworthy... and devilishly handsome; which if all else fails, that alone is enough to fall back on and in all honesty that was enough for him right now.
Lowering himself to a slight bow, Niamh extended his hand as if to escort him down the path ahead, "After a performance like that I would want the company of no other, and I think your outfit is divine." Sure, He may have been laying it on a bit thick, but after the news he received from the dock hands, This was a welcome distraction. "So, Lunch then." He chimed while walking beside Leukos, "What kind of foods do you like and how long do we have?"
Nated had many wonders, most of which he knew of or had explored. Depending on the time they had Niamh had a few ideas to dazzle his date. Would they be grabbing a quick bit from street vendors, a few marinated skewers of meat and a stroll on the beach? Or perhaps seated at a table enjoying a fermented fruit beverage, watching the sun set, enjoying a multiple course meal. The possibilities were endless~
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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2017 3:18 am
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Leukos blinked a few times, a surprisingly pleasant ball of warmth lodging itself under his ribcage and edging up his neck, but stopping just shy of his cheeks: he wasn’t quite there yet. He tucked some hair behind his ear and shrugged slightly, puffing through his nose with a grin, “Such gracious flattery; I should think it impossible to sustain my ego at a manageable level if everyone was as eloquent as you.”
He glanced down at the smaller Matoran as they began to walk, adjusting the length of his longer strides to match the proper tempo of the pace Niamh was setting. “Yes. Lunch…” Leukos tapped at his lips with a slender finger, crossing an arm over his chest to rest his elbow on. How long did they have? Really, he should only take a break for a few hours, to catch the crowds heading home to prepare for dinner at the day’s end. Every coin he was able to earn was important, getting him one step closer to replenishing his depleted stock.
But…
He’d been working so hard lately: trying to get his life back in order, practicing to get his routines perfected for this new environment, stressing over what new obstacles each day might bring. And after the incident that had caused this whole predicament, Leukos had been hesitant to linger with these strangers for too long. But he was a sociable guy, starting to feel that itch again for companionship… of the mental and physical variety. And here was a charming young man who was offering to fill that need, who wanted to spend time with him.
So screw it. The universe was giving him a nice gift here, and he’d be a fool to not take it. Leukos deserved to have some fun again.
He moved his hands in a wide gesture and placed them at his hips, “Well, that’s the great thing about being your own employer: I get to set my own schedule. I’ve got nowhere else to be. So you can have my undivided attention, for as long as you should like it.” Leukos tipped his head, looking down at Niamh, “And do not fret over me, I’m a fan of many different kinds of dishes; so whatever you decide on, I’ll be more than happy to sample it.”
[3/10]
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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2017 9:38 am
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֍
"My my~" Niamh bit his lower lip, "Clearing your whole day for me; nothing like making a man feel special." 'Was this even real?' Had he been having some bazaar split world dream where everything seemed real, but everything was working... for once. This had to be some sort of prank his men were playing on him. They must have slipped the performer a large sum of coin to lure him in and play the man of his dreams; And if that were the case, he was going to enjoy every moment.
Continuing along the oceanside path he expanded his chest, taking a deep breath, "Well~" he exhaled, "How about we get a bit better acquainted and I'll arrange reservations at an oceanside establishment I know of. They have the most fantastic dishes~"
The place in mind had late afternoon hours, so it hadn't opened yet, and he really wouldn't have to do anything but show up and drop his name. After bailing the owner out of a tight spot a few years back against his father's wishes, he has been given his own table; which his father frequently uses for business matters... Despite his insistence Niamh not help. It tickled him positively pink when he was able to prove his father wrong. Pushing his past success out of his mind he returned his attention to the present, "So, I gather you're from Oba." Niamh began while taking note of the pigments his clothing held, "I've heard many things, but never been myself. Do you like it there?"
His father hated going to Oba and refused the trek for anything other than business. Niamh and his sister have been forbidden to venture that far by themselves. Though his sister kind of came and went as she pleased, paying little mind to Sarkis's hollow threats. He knew that if ever he needed to get to Oba, Miri was the one to get him there, and she would frequently bring back silks and wonders from the foreign southwestern land.
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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2017 3:57 pm
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Well hopefully this day will be a good one. Leukos laced his fingers behind his back, stretching a bit more in the warm sun, “That sounds like a lovely plan. I feel so very spoiled; reservations at a restaurant on the beach for just the two of us? How ever did I luck out so thoroughly? “He closed the space between them just a tad bit more, nodding when Niamh made his observation.
“Yes, that expansive swath of desert is the place I call home. I’ve lived there all my life.” He paused for a moment, considering the following question. Did he like it there? He didn’t really have experience with any other places to compare it with, besides what he’s learned thus far of Matori. Which had made recognizing the stark differences between the two lands unavoidable. There were definitely many things wrong with Oba, things he was not fond of, things he hated. But even considering its flaws…
“I do. Without trying to sound too boastful, I have to say that it is truly unlike any other place in Tendaji. The cities there are so large, it makes the ones here look like little villages. And the architecture! Buildings are designed so solidly they can reach into the sky many levels above your head. Yet they still manage to design them in aesthetically pleasing ways; I do not envy the engineers who must tackle the undoubtedly numerous problems that come with designing our cities.”
Leukos looked about, observing the environment around them, the passing faces in the crowds, the smells of the ocean that seemed to penetrate even the heart of the city somehow, “But this place... Matori... it has its charms. This is actually my first time in your country. I don’t think I will ever get used to how green it is! And so much water all around you, it’s baffling. And the people… It’s odd seeing so many of my kind here; working whatever jobs they please, speaking freely, moving where they wish, owning what they want. I’ve never seen so many well dressed and prosperous Matorans.” He brought his attention back to Niamh, tipping his head and smiling, “Such as yourself.”
[4/10]
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Posted: Wed Apr 19, 2017 7:11 pm
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It was with equally somber eyes that Leukos looked off nowhere in particular. Things had gotten exponentially better for the Matorans compared to how things used to be, but 10 short years was nowhere near enough to erase centuries of discrimination and abuse. It would likely never happen in his lifetime, but maybe future children would be able to experience a land where they could be treated as equals and intellectuals by everyone in Oba... If they were lucky.
But then Niamh was speaking again and Leukos was brought back into the present, turning his attention back to his date, “Oh, look who’s the flatterer now~” He grinned, equal parts amusement and abashment making their way into his tone, “And your hunch is not entirely off actually. You seem like a sharp guy. I’m sure by now you’ve noticed the scars on my back, so there’s really no reason to start dancing around it: I was a slave. I was raised to be an entertainer and companion since I could start walking and talking. And after we were freed, I joined a circus that travels across Oba, so I’ve really been a performer my whole life. Perfection was expected of me when I was in the service of the Oban nobility. And though that mentality is no longer being forced on me, I find it to be a hard one to shake off. I’m afraid I would not be useful at much else besides pleasing others.”
At that he laughed, thinking back on the times he’d tried taking up a new trade, which had all been met with various degrees of failure and fumbling on his part. “It’s for the best we are eating out; you WOULD NOT want to sample my cooking, let me tell you that!”
[5/10]
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Posted: Thu Apr 20, 2017 6:42 pm
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֍
"Ha," Niamh chuckled, "Something else we have in common- other than our dashing good looks, of course~" He too was a horrible cook, "Worst thing is... I'm a bit of a food snob; Can't make it to save my life, but I certainly have an opinion about it." It was terrible, but something he was definitely guilty of.
His breath hitched as his fingers ran across the scars on Leukos's back. It was so common among his people that he never paid much attention; as awful as that may sound. Niamh never faced the hardships his fellow Matorans had in Oba, and because of this, he finds himself awkward when caught in such conversations. Don't get him wrong, he was glad to be spared from such a life, but considering the abuse was so common and so intense he should be sympathetic, but he can't even begin to relate to the pain of such atrocities. "I-I'm sorry... for what you must have endured." Niamh voice was barely a whisper. It was painful to imagine anyone wanting to hurt the man standing next to him.
Struggling to keep things in a positive light Niamh switched gears, "so, there is a Traveling circus in Oba?" He asked with a hint of surprise in his voice. Oba seemed so formal, so black and white... so rigid. Though he supposed the Obans do love their entertainment and they couldn't get it by force anymore, "What other acts are there? Have you traveled anywhere outside of Oba?" He wrinkled his brow and gave a laugh, "Are you with them now? I guess I hadn't heard of a circus in Matori, but I hadn't exactly been looking for entertainment either."
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Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 3:09 pm
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It was with a small twitch of shock that Leukos felt fingers running along his back, but the surprise quickly passed when he realized that Niamh was just exploring. He didn’t say anything, letting the boy wander as much as he saw fit until his curiosity was sated. He sighed and rolled his shoulders, “Thank you for the sympathy, but it’s fine; I try to not let these define who I am. Now they’re just a reminder to never let anyone treat me like that ever again.”
Leukos accepted the switch in topics gladly, ready to move on to lighter subjects; talk of slavery was hardly the right mood setter on a date. “Yes, as surprising as that may seem, we are indeed the largest ― and I dare even say the only ― traveling troupe of our kind to grace Tendaji.” He scratched an itch near his ear and smiled, thinking fondly of the patchwork group of people he’d come to consider the closest thing he had to a real family. “In truth, I think if there was to be a circus, Oba is the only place it could ever have started. We have the wealth, the stability, the population, and the right environment for it. The jungles are too dense in the primitive lands of Jauhar and the Alkidikes, Sauti is covered in steep mountain ranges, half of Tale is a barren savannah, and Matori… well, what is connected to us by land hardly has the income to make setting up a show there worth our while. Much of the wealth is located here on the islands. And cramming our troupe onto a boat is something that hardly seems like an easy task!”
He chortled lightly, moving some hair out of his face again, “But who knows, maybe someday we’ll give it a try! We have plans to try to at least hit some of the larger cities in Tale, see how it goes from there. So for the time being, unfortunately you’d have to travel across the sea to Oba if you’d ever like to see the spectacle. And what a scene it is!”
His eyes lit up, gesturing with enthusiasm as he delved into more details, “We have a trapeze and high-wire act, both without safety nets, if you can believe it. Though the way they move so high above the ground, with such confidence, it almost tricks you into thinking they would never even be able to fall! A set of triplets are our contortionists, they do an amazing performance together. And there are quite a few animal acts; we have a Perzi, an Aldabuck, a Scorra, a pair of Zanteer, a Janarim, and some Xaraans. The latter are my performing partners; I’m actually a rather skilled rider, if I do say so myself. And the Janarim… it’s really a proud and magnificent beast, unlike any other, if you ask me.”
Leukos paused and flushed lightly, glancing down at Niamh, “Sorry for rambling, I tend to get excited about these sorts of things! I’m sorry I won’t be able to show you any of it though; I’m here on a… vacation… of sorts. You’ll just have to settle on whatever entertainment I can provide, unfortunately.”
[6/10]
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Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 11:51 pm
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֍
"Oh, Don't apologize."Niamh chimed as he watched Leukos describe the Grand Traveling Troupe of Oba, becoming somewhat swept up in it all himself. "You're a beast tamer? That's awesome... I actually wouldn't have guessed that about you." With his personality, style and that mesmerizing performance, Niamh would have pegged him a dancer at the very least. "Your troupe seems like quite the sight to behold~" He would definitely have to venture to Oba to see the festivities.
Nearing the end of the beach walkway they came upon a fairly new looking establishment half peeking out onto the beach and half tucked back into the jungle-like flora of Nated. The building was mostly open, only having half paneling for the walls, allowing for a panoramic view of the ocean. The jungle side was mostly walled in but allowed for a few larger glass panels to be placed for a more exotic view.
"We're a bit early, but I'm sure the will still seat us," Niamh said while stepping up to the heavy wooden doors. with a brisk tug the door gave way, "After you~" He added while holding the door for Leukos. Inside there were a little over a dozen tables to choose from, a bar like seating area for a more casual experience, and the room itself had been lit by candles; other than the natural light, of course.
Niamh gave a casual wave to the waitstaff who was arranging things behind the counter.
"Oh!~ Mr. Lorcan..." She gasped and made her way over to them, "I hadn't expected you. Please take a seat wherever you'd like..." She raked her hair behind her ears and shifted on her feet nervously, "I'll prepare some drinks?" She asked awaiting an answer from the pair.
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Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 12:15 am
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Leukos flushed a bit and shrugged, looking down at his glittering ensemble, “Yes well... I’m actually a bit of a multitasker? My acts involve the animals, but there is quite a bit of dancing and acrobatics involved as well…” He trailed off, distracted by Niamh drawing attention to the establishment they would be dining at. It was so nice. He hadn’t been able to eat anywhere this posh in a long time; it was even a treat back in Oba to be able to go out to dine at a place like this. He hummed appreciatively as they approached the door, bowing his head as it was ever so politely opened for him, “Why thank you~”
He craned his head around as they entered to get a good look at the place, trying to remain at least a bit coy, but was finding that the temptation to ogle was a hard challenge to wrangle with. His focus shifted to the woman behind the counter, quirking an eyebrow down at Niamh, “I thought you said we had reservations? I’m starting to think you brought me here to show off how much power you have… Mr. Lorcan~” He rapped his knuckles on one of the solid tables appreciatively, winking at him. “It’s working.”
[7/10]
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Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 6:23 pm
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֍
His face flushed as he nervously scrubbed the back of his head, "The reservations weren't necessary; our family commonly uses this place as a neutral ground for business... It got great food, strong drinks, a fantastic view, and relaxing atmosphere." while making his way to a table with a perfect view of the setting sun. pulling out the chair, he waited for Leukos to take a seat, before sitting across from him. Leaning back he gave a sigh, "What a day~" he mused, "Beautiful weather and an incredible view~" He added while giving Leukos a coy smile. Niamh began to slowly melt into relaxation for what seemed like the first time in months... And then the waitress came back.
"I took the liberty of bringing your usual- but two, one for... your guest?" She piped while placing the glasses before them. The beverages were a refreshing iced fruit blend, adorned with a mint leaf garnish. The waitress glanced in Leukos direction and timidly tucked the same stubborn lock of hair behind her ear while blushing slightly. Holding the tray against her body she began into her usual spiel about what was available today when she was interrupted by the kitchen doors bursting open.
"Niamh!?" A girthy man in all black with an apron bellowed as he made his way around the bar, "Waltzing in like you own the place... We're not open for another half hour." The mousy waitress scurried off behind the bar and continued her prep work for when the place opened
"And just when has that stopped you from treating me in the past~" Niamh gave a laugh while resting an arm on the back of the chair as he looked across the dining room at the cook, "Honestly, Lydas, this may as well be my home away from home."
The cook crossed his arms and pursed his lips as though he was considering his options, "Tell you what... I have some new dishes I want you to try because I know you will be brutally honest." Lydas gave a deep guttural laugh. Turning to Niamh's company he offered a hand, "You, My friend, Will be an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire of my culinary madness~"
"Leukos, this is Lydas." Niamh explained, hoping the man's antics wasn't entirely offputting, "He's a longtime friend of my fathers'... The man's terrible with money, but a remarkable chef."
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Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 8:52 pm
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Leukos smiled and lightly shook his head, chuckling quietly as Niamh recovered from being called out. He followed him to their designated table and took the chair offered to him gladly, savoring the soft padding under his work weary glutes. It really was turning out to be a great day, thanks in no small part to his own knight in shining armor that had come and rescued Leukos from boring mediocrity.
When the waitress came back with drinks, he smiled up charmingly at her and took the glass. “Thank you sweet-pea, they look delicious~” And they were. Cool and sweet, with just the barest aftertaste of alcohol. Leukos didn’t even have to pretend he was enjoying the beverage; his satisfied hum was completely genuine.
He’d just gotten properly relaxed in his chair as he listened with interest to what was available on the menu, when suddenly a very large and very loud man burst into the room, the ice cubes in his cup clinking together jarringly as Leukos jumped up an inch in his seat. Thankfully the drink had not sloshed out, so it was only his frazzled composure that he had to put back in order. But it looked like there was nothing to worry about, Niamh quipping back nonchalantly. And just like that the man seemed to cool his jets and relaxed, Leukos taking the hand offered to him to shake as the hairs on the back of his neck came to lie at rest again.
“I am more than delighted to be able to sample some of your mystery concoctions, Mr. Lydas. I can’t say how refined my palette is, but I am sure they will be wonderful.” He removed his hand from the man’s firm grasp, wrapping his slender fingers back around their comfortable position on his glass. “Though you might have to leave the honesty to Niamh here; I don’t think I could find it in me to say anything negative, not after you are both being so gracious in letting me join you this afternoon.”
[8/10]
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