[ He shifts to lean against the wall, keeping some part of himself in contact with Wren as he does. ]
It's cozy.
[ There's a moment of consideration, and then he turns to fully face Wren. He's leaning in a little closely, a look of lowkey determination in his gaze. ]
Say, I want to do something. [ tiny smile ] Take me to the entrance for a moment?
[ It's pretty amazing that he still doesn't mind that Aeryn invades his personal space. That he even wants to reach back to touch.
A nod of his head. ] We didn't really need big places, when it was just the two of us.
[ He was given the one room whenever possible, though their group has grown by one recently... since he doesn't know how long Aeryn will be with them. Wren blinks at the question.
Then nods his head and slides off the bed. Without asking, he reaches out to pick up Aeryn in princess-carry. Moving out to the front door. There isn't much out here - a kitchen, a living room with a fire place, a bathroom, and a ladder to a small loft. It's clear of all dust and cobwebs, though doesn't really look all that lived in either. Just the bare minimum of furniture. ]
[ He nods to show he understands how that would be the case. ]
My family has a difficult time finding secure safe havens, these days. We have seven people to house, and I'm the only one capable of working.
[ There's a distant look in his gaze for a moment, a hint of worry surfacing. Though, when he's suddenly picked up, there's a quiet sound that could almost be called a squeak. With flushed cheeks, he slides both arms around Wren's neck. ]
I didn't mean like this, you know.
[ Yep, that's a soft whine. In spite of it, he huffs gently and leans up to innocently kiss the dragon's cheek. ]
As long as you aren't doing it because you think I'm incapable of walking.
It was just me and Magni, though recently Nym joined us. We don't... really work. Just travel. Seven people sounds like a lot to take care of.
[ Not that his tone sounds like it's a bad thing, just not something he can imagine on that level. Seems like a lot of people for someone who doesn't like rowdiness.
There's a moment of silence. ]
I just like when we're touching. That's a new thing for me.
[ While he doesn't mind when Magni or Nym touches him, it's not quite the same. ]
[ There's simply a smile at the next part, however. It is a lot, but he isn't the type to do anything he feels qualifies as complaining. Then, when he hears the response to the next thing, his expression softens. ]
Maybe... it has something to do with part of your power being with me? At the risk of sounding cheesy, your spirit could simply feel more whole, as a result.
[ As much as he would find it romantic if it was simply because it's him... ]
Either way, I-... don't mind being carried by you.
[ Very shyly, he admits that while sliding one back around to rest over his midsection, so that he can let his head rest on Wren's shoulder. ]
Magni made it up. Nym couldn't talk and didn't want to share his name, at first.
[ It's clear he doesn't want to say why, not because of a lack of trust for Aeryn, but because that is Nym's story to share - if he wants. Just like he only told Magni a few things about Aeryn. ]
I don't know. I didn't like anyone touching me after... what happened. Not even Magni. Even now, I sometimes need to be alone. His touch is nice, yours is... more.
[ He can definitely feel the difference between then two. Even if it's only been a short period of time since they were reunited. His face is even flushed just talking about it. ]
[ He won't ask for details, simply choosing to give a look of understanding. ]
That's really sweet... giving someone a name. Assuming it's appreciated, of course.
[ Since he doesn't know either of them, yet, he can only guess at things. As he listens to the next part, his expression warms. He nods gently at the mention of not liking being touched, at first. After a moment... ]
If you ever need time alone, say the word.
[ Gently, he reaches up, pauses... then lightly brushes his fingers over one flushed cheek. Softly, he lets his hand rest there as he says the next thing. ]
And I trust you'll let me know if I ever cross any lines.
[ Perhaps the story will be told, or Nym will allow Wren to do so if Aeryn stays in their life. He's quiet at the words the other says, right now it doesn't feel like he needs alone time or that Aeryn could possibly cross any lines. ]
Okay. I will.
[ That day may never come, or there might be fewer of them. Since Aeryn requested this of him, he wants to accept it. They reach the entry doorway and Wren seems reluctant to put the other down for a long moment. When he does, he's still standing very close - close enough to be touching, arms brushing against each other. ]
[ Oh, Wren doesn't want to put him down... Aeryn finds that really cute, a soft chuckle escaping as he patiently waits to be put down. After making sure Wren knows they need to be inside for this. Once his feet touch the floor, he smiles up at Wren, reaching out to hold his hand. ]
I actually... need you to hold onto me a little tightly for this to work as smoothly as possible.
[ That's said a bit shyly as he reaches up and briefly fidgets with the purple strand of hair. ]
[ He nods at the first part, not feeling the need to say more at this moment.
Wren hadn't even opened the door leading outside, figuring Aeryn would do what he needed once there. The dragon actually feels much more at ease holding the other's hand, so his fingers curl around it.
Then... oh. Time to shift and wrap both arms around Aeryn from behind, holding the other around the waist tightly but not painfully. ]
[ This is definitely what he meant, but he hadn't anticipated the way it makes him feel. So... safe and stable. Like he's right where he's meant to be, where he was always meant to belong. Initially, he responds in a voice that's at a slightly higher pitch than intended. ]
It's...
[ He clears his throat, chuckling at himself a little. ]
Yes. [ softer, with a small smile: ] It's perfect.
[ With that, he reaches out, lightly resting his hand on the door. ]
I need you to think of Magni and Nym. Whatever comes to mind first should work.
[ A very gentle warmth is going to wash over Wren, bringing feelings of nostalgia and a twinge of homesickness. But, more than either of those, there is a chance he'll recognize that this is a spell of protection, unique to Aeryn. It was very frequently used on Wren, after all, the moment Aeryn even came close to mastering it.
There are no words, no incantation, only the feelings. Warm, affectionate, and familiar feelings. ]
It will easily hold for a few days. Even if somebody malicious came along, they would only feel confused. And, even if they tried to force their way over here, they'd wind up blacking out and wake up several miles north, unable to remember how they got there.
[ With that, he rests one hand over Wren's arm. ]
I, um...
[ He closes his eyes. ]
Mastered that spell because of you. I used to... blame myself, for not doing it sooner. All I'd ever wanted was to protect, but it felt like I was always just shy of strong enough, with everyone I ever cared about.
[ There's a weak laugh before he swallows thickly and shakes his head. ]
Sorry, I'm just... maybe still a little tired? I think I should sit down.
[ But he doesn't try to pull away. He simply lowers his head, eyes still closed. ]
[ He looks down at Aeryn when the high-pitched word comes out first, wondering if something's wrong. The follow-up just makes him curious.
Wren has been around enough magic to know how to focus his intent. So at the instructions, he closes his eyes to think about the two that have become his family - Magni always taking care of him, Nym coming to wake him up. The warmth they both hold for each other and for him, and his own feelings for them in return.
There really is a warmth flowing through him and he doubts it's just from holding Aeryn who is always warm. The dragon doesn't let go when it appears the protection spell is set, merely resting his chin on the other's crown. ]
Maybe it was enough, to keep me here so that I could meet you again.
[ Surviving the entire massacre of his village, and his injuries. ]
Okay, let's sit down.
[ Just going to shift in order to scoop Aeryn up in his arms again, taking them over to sit on the sofa. Though... he places the other in his lap, rather than next to him, both arms once again wrapping around the unicorn's waist. ]
[ He lets out a sound of surprise, but it's much softer this time around. He relaxes against Wren, and that doesn't change even when he's suddenly in the dragon's lap. His face does turn very red when the position sinks in, however...
With a soft sound, he shifts to press his face into Wren's shoulder. ]
I do think you could be right. But... back then, I didn't know for sure. I always had this feeling that I couldn't explain, but I was never able to search for you. I wanted to, every day, but... my family was falling ill, one by one.
Everyone I asked for help from wanted money, or...
[ He shakes his head, pressing his face a little firmer into Wren's shoulder. ]
I decided to trust the feeling in my gut, to believe that I were alive, and that I'd see you again.
[ At this point, Wren isn't thinking about anything physical in the intimate sense, only that he likes Aeryn close. That he smells nice - a combination of the unicorn and dragon scents.
Maybe he doesn't need to say that he couldn't look for Aeryn either. ]
Falling ill?
[ He focuses on that, instead. ]
Here we are again. It might not have been the best circumstances, but I'm glad I was there when you needed me.
[ That first question earns a moment of silence. That isn't something he's talked to anyone about - not even the ones directly involved. They all sort of... had this silent understanding of what was happening, and that was that. They fought it where they could, how they could, but... first, he focuses on the second part said. There's a small smile on his lips as he gently curls his fingers into Wren's shirt. ]
I'm glad I listened to my instincts.
[ Finally, after a tense pause: ]
My kind is going extinct. I... am the only one that comes back, no matter what. Everyone else falls ill, and then...
[ He swallows, tightly closing his eyes for a moment. ]
One by one, the illness takes them. That's why those hunters are trying to capture us. To... force us into cages, to be treated, and-... mate. We all agreed that we would rather die out than exist inside cages, reproducing for the sake of them...
[ There's considerable anger and disgust in his voice. ]
[ He can understand needing a moment before addressing that first question. Wren can't talk about his own family either, has never had to because Magni knew already. So there's no pushing when it isn't answered right away. ]
Me too. I'm glad I happened to be close by.
[ When the answer is given, Wren is quiet. He at least understands the first part - going extinct. Though being the only one who comes back... well, that is something he knows on one level. ]
Why is this what the world is turning into?
[ Being hunted and used for someone else's purpose. A terrible purpose, no matter how different they might be. ]
[ He smiles, even if it can't be seen. Even if he doesn't respond to those words verbally, he is shifting to wrap his arms around Wren. A warm embrace says more, he thinks, than words ever could. Then the question comes...
Aeryn shakes his head, silently saying that he doesn't know. A soft sigh escapes. ]
When I was just a little younger than we are now... I was so convinced I would be able to find a way to stop it. I was determined to persuade the hunters to stop what they're doing. To take a different approach. I had this entire speech ready for whenever they managed to track us down next.
[ The laugh he lets out is a bit strained. Instead of continuing, he quietly asks about something that's been on his mind a lot. ]
[ Having Aeryn burrow closer, it's nice. More than that, it feels right. Like they fit together perfectly. Idly, he wonders if this is how Magni feels with Nym, or if Aeryn feels the same.
A hand reaches up to sink into the unicorn's hair, letting the silky strands slip through his fingers. ]
I wish that was enough. Maybe it used to be, but it's become like this already.
[ Ah, the question earns a sharp inhale followed by silence. His head shifts to rest on top of Aeryn's, hiding his face. ]
They've been hunted, used as parts and magic. We've been searching, but haven't yet found any of my kind.
[ Another moment of silence, and the next words don't come through lips. Words only meant for Aeryn to know. ]
Magni could probably find more of our kind soon, but he'd never leave me behind.
[ The other dragon has found his soul mate, should Nym agree - Magni would instinctively know the way to the ancient lands. ]
[ He nods at the first part, agreeing with him. He's quiet, listening patiently to the answer Wren gives. There's sadness and anger - enough to leak into the air, a little, this time. He tightens his hold on Wren, clamping down on those emotions the best he can.
There's a pause after he hears the thoughts in his mind. Words he gently welcomes, the mental brush of his thoughts almost carrying a playful air. Said mental brush is something natural and passive, like a mental aura, as the thoughts are somber, but kind. ]
[ It's a vague way to talk about what happened to his village, without outright saying that they were all slaughtered in front of his eyes. That isn't really a conversation for a reunion - even with all they've already touched upon so far.
He leans his head against Aeryn. ]
There's still a lot of this world left to explore.
[ A quiet sound of understanding is all he gives at first. It's after a moment of considering, he reaches up and threads his fingers through Wren's hair. ]
My mother used to tell me stories about islands, how there used to be many out there, thousands of years ago, hidden from the eyes of mortals. Safe havens for the mers, unicorns, dragons, and more... She had a book with maps pressed inside. If I could find that, perhaps it could be a good starting point.
[ A soft pleased sound escapes him at the hand in his hair, nodding a tiny bit. ]
Magni keeps track of the areas we've been to on land, though he suspects there's some kind of protective magic at work. Making it a real safe haven for dragon elders.
I wonder if that's the same as your mother used to say.
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It's cozy.
[ There's a moment of consideration, and then he turns to fully face Wren. He's leaning in a little closely, a look of lowkey determination in his gaze. ]
Say, I want to do something. [ tiny smile ] Take me to the entrance for a moment?
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A nod of his head. ] We didn't really need big places, when it was just the two of us.
[ He was given the one room whenever possible, though their group has grown by one recently... since he doesn't know how long Aeryn will be with them. Wren blinks at the question.
Then nods his head and slides off the bed. Without asking, he reaches out to pick up Aeryn in princess-carry. Moving out to the front door. There isn't much out here - a kitchen, a living room with a fire place, a bathroom, and a ladder to a small loft. It's clear of all dust and cobwebs, though doesn't really look all that lived in either. Just the bare minimum of furniture. ]
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My family has a difficult time finding secure safe havens, these days. We have seven people to house, and I'm the only one capable of working.
[ There's a distant look in his gaze for a moment, a hint of worry surfacing. Though, when he's suddenly picked up, there's a quiet sound that could almost be called a squeak. With flushed cheeks, he slides both arms around Wren's neck. ]
I didn't mean like this, you know.
[ Yep, that's a soft whine. In spite of it, he huffs gently and leans up to innocently kiss the dragon's cheek. ]
As long as you aren't doing it because you think I'm incapable of walking.
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It was just me and Magni, though recently Nym joined us. We don't... really work. Just travel. Seven people sounds like a lot to take care of.
[ Not that his tone sounds like it's a bad thing, just not something he can imagine on that level. Seems like a lot of people for someone who doesn't like rowdiness.
There's a moment of silence. ]
I just like when we're touching. That's a new thing for me.
[ While he doesn't mind when Magni or Nym touches him, it's not quite the same. ]
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Nym... I've never heard that name before.
[ There's simply a smile at the next part, however. It is a lot, but he isn't the type to do anything he feels qualifies as complaining. Then, when he hears the response to the next thing, his expression softens. ]
Maybe... it has something to do with part of your power being with me? At the risk of sounding cheesy, your spirit could simply feel more whole, as a result.
[ As much as he would find it romantic if it was simply because it's him... ]
Either way, I-... don't mind being carried by you.
[ Very shyly, he admits that while sliding one back around to rest over his midsection, so that he can let his head rest on Wren's shoulder. ]
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Magni made it up. Nym couldn't talk and didn't want to share his name, at first.
[ It's clear he doesn't want to say why, not because of a lack of trust for Aeryn, but because that is Nym's story to share - if he wants. Just like he only told Magni a few things about Aeryn. ]
I don't know. I didn't like anyone touching me after... what happened. Not even Magni. Even now, I sometimes need to be alone. His touch is nice, yours is... more.
[ He can definitely feel the difference between then two. Even if it's only been a short period of time since they were reunited. His face is even flushed just talking about it. ]
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That's really sweet... giving someone a name. Assuming it's appreciated, of course.
[ Since he doesn't know either of them, yet, he can only guess at things. As he listens to the next part, his expression warms. He nods gently at the mention of not liking being touched, at first. After a moment... ]
If you ever need time alone, say the word.
[ Gently, he reaches up, pauses... then lightly brushes his fingers over one flushed cheek. Softly, he lets his hand rest there as he says the next thing. ]
And I trust you'll let me know if I ever cross any lines.
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Nym likes it.
[ Perhaps the story will be told, or Nym will allow Wren to do so if Aeryn stays in their life. He's quiet at the words the other says, right now it doesn't feel like he needs alone time or that Aeryn could possibly cross any lines. ]
Okay. I will.
[ That day may never come, or there might be fewer of them. Since Aeryn requested this of him, he wants to accept it. They reach the entry doorway and Wren seems reluctant to put the other down for a long moment. When he does, he's still standing very close - close enough to be touching, arms brushing against each other. ]
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Then I stand by what I said.
[ Oh, Wren doesn't want to put him down... Aeryn finds that really cute, a soft chuckle escaping as he patiently waits to be put down. After making sure Wren knows they need to be inside for this. Once his feet touch the floor, he smiles up at Wren, reaching out to hold his hand. ]
I actually... need you to hold onto me a little tightly for this to work as smoothly as possible.
[ That's said a bit shyly as he reaches up and briefly fidgets with the purple strand of hair. ]
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Wren hadn't even opened the door leading outside, figuring Aeryn would do what he needed once there. The dragon actually feels much more at ease holding the other's hand, so his fingers curl around it.
Then... oh. Time to shift and wrap both arms around Aeryn from behind, holding the other around the waist tightly but not painfully. ]
Does this work?
[ Is this what Aeryn meant? ]
1/2
It's...
[ He clears his throat, chuckling at himself a little. ]
Yes. [ softer, with a small smile: ] It's perfect.
2/2
I need you to think of Magni and Nym. Whatever comes to mind first should work.
[ A very gentle warmth is going to wash over Wren, bringing feelings of nostalgia and a twinge of homesickness. But, more than either of those, there is a chance he'll recognize that this is a spell of protection, unique to Aeryn. It was very frequently used on Wren, after all, the moment Aeryn even came close to mastering it.
There are no words, no incantation, only the feelings. Warm, affectionate, and familiar feelings. ]
It will easily hold for a few days. Even if somebody malicious came along, they would only feel confused. And, even if they tried to force their way over here, they'd wind up blacking out and wake up several miles north, unable to remember how they got there.
[ With that, he rests one hand over Wren's arm. ]
I, um...
[ He closes his eyes. ]
Mastered that spell because of you. I used to... blame myself, for not doing it sooner. All I'd ever wanted was to protect, but it felt like I was always just shy of strong enough, with everyone I ever cared about.
[ There's a weak laugh before he swallows thickly and shakes his head. ]
Sorry, I'm just... maybe still a little tired? I think I should sit down.
[ But he doesn't try to pull away. He simply lowers his head, eyes still closed. ]
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Wren has been around enough magic to know how to focus his intent. So at the instructions, he closes his eyes to think about the two that have become his family - Magni always taking care of him, Nym coming to wake him up. The warmth they both hold for each other and for him, and his own feelings for them in return.
There really is a warmth flowing through him and he doubts it's just from holding Aeryn who is always warm. The dragon doesn't let go when it appears the protection spell is set, merely resting his chin on the other's crown. ]
Maybe it was enough, to keep me here so that I could meet you again.
[ Surviving the entire massacre of his village, and his injuries. ]
Okay, let's sit down.
[ Just going to shift in order to scoop Aeryn up in his arms again, taking them over to sit on the sofa. Though... he places the other in his lap, rather than next to him, both arms once again wrapping around the unicorn's waist. ]
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With a soft sound, he shifts to press his face into Wren's shoulder. ]
I do think you could be right. But... back then, I didn't know for sure. I always had this feeling that I couldn't explain, but I was never able to search for you. I wanted to, every day, but... my family was falling ill, one by one.
Everyone I asked for help from wanted money, or...
[ He shakes his head, pressing his face a little firmer into Wren's shoulder. ]
I decided to trust the feeling in my gut, to believe that I were alive, and that I'd see you again.
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Maybe he doesn't need to say that he couldn't look for Aeryn either. ]
Falling ill?
[ He focuses on that, instead. ]
Here we are again. It might not have been the best circumstances, but I'm glad I was there when you needed me.
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I'm glad I listened to my instincts.
[ Finally, after a tense pause: ]
My kind is going extinct. I... am the only one that comes back, no matter what. Everyone else falls ill, and then...
[ He swallows, tightly closing his eyes for a moment. ]
One by one, the illness takes them. That's why those hunters are trying to capture us. To... force us into cages, to be treated, and-... mate. We all agreed that we would rather die out than exist inside cages, reproducing for the sake of them...
[ There's considerable anger and disgust in his voice. ]
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Me too. I'm glad I happened to be close by.
[ When the answer is given, Wren is quiet. He at least understands the first part - going extinct. Though being the only one who comes back... well, that is something he knows on one level. ]
Why is this what the world is turning into?
[ Being hunted and used for someone else's purpose. A terrible purpose, no matter how different they might be. ]
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Aeryn shakes his head, silently saying that he doesn't know. A soft sigh escapes. ]
When I was just a little younger than we are now... I was so convinced I would be able to find a way to stop it. I was determined to persuade the hunters to stop what they're doing. To take a different approach. I had this entire speech ready for whenever they managed to track us down next.
[ The laugh he lets out is a bit strained. Instead of continuing, he quietly asks about something that's been on his mind a lot. ]
What of... your kind, Wren?
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A hand reaches up to sink into the unicorn's hair, letting the silky strands slip through his fingers. ]
I wish that was enough. Maybe it used to be, but it's become like this already.
[ Ah, the question earns a sharp inhale followed by silence. His head shifts to rest on top of Aeryn's, hiding his face. ]
They've been hunted, used as parts and magic. We've been searching, but haven't yet found any of my kind.
[ Another moment of silence, and the next words don't come through lips. Words only meant for Aeryn to know. ]
Magni could probably find more of our kind soon, but he'd never leave me behind.
[ The other dragon has found his soul mate, should Nym agree - Magni would instinctively know the way to the ancient lands. ]
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There's a pause after he hears the thoughts in his mind. Words he gently welcomes, the mental brush of his thoughts almost carrying a playful air. Said mental brush is something natural and passive, like a mental aura, as the thoughts are somber, but kind. ]
I would like to help, somehow.
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He leans his head against Aeryn. ]
There's still a lot of this world left to explore.
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And we are still very young. I'm sure we'll find something.
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We decided to search the land first, figuring if there were other types of dragon, that's where we'd find them.
[ It's harder to search the oceans. ]
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My mother used to tell me stories about islands, how there used to be many out there, thousands of years ago, hidden from the eyes of mortals. Safe havens for the mers, unicorns, dragons, and more... She had a book with maps pressed inside. If I could find that, perhaps it could be a good starting point.
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Magni keeps track of the areas we've been to on land, though he suspects there's some kind of protective magic at work. Making it a real safe haven for dragon elders.
I wonder if that's the same as your mother used to say.
[ A brief pause. ]
It'd be nice if we could all go there together.
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