Archer White

friends gotta take care of each other :)

I just realized I've never posted it here!

His hand had been intended for the usual Western greeting, and to pull his acquaintance to his feet. What lingered, lingered with him unexpectedly. A brief moment, he stared at their hands, the callus of Archer’s fingers. He would not have the pleasure of surprise spoil whatever this was, whatever Archer needed in this moment belonged to him, and severing their connection would be on the soldier’s terms.

His guest, a willing participant, became part of the environment the instant he crossed the door. The gravel and grass yielded to his weight. Butterflies and moths frequently inhabited his courtyard; why not now? Why not a butterfly land on Archer’s shoulder, walking patiently from one side to the other, its wings like spilled teal and yellow paint shifted as fluidly as the creature.

Only… the dirt and scratches which covered him now appeared grossly out of place. Without thinking, Hector removed a handkerchief from his pocket and dabbed at his cheek, before realizing his nearness.

“Ah. Pardon. You wish to see my home?” Hesitation nearly had him worry his lip. Instead, he squeezed the fingers he held. This dream had drastically reshaped itself, and the dreamer noticeably calm. If he could but maintain the peace.

He blinked as he felt the dabbing of his cheek. A sensation he hadn't had in almost 5 years. It was so familiar, so giving, and made him pause to hang on Hector's every word.

He felt the gentle squeeze and apologized quietly, releasing his hold. Archer was filthy and now he worried he had gotten Hector's hand just as dirty. He tried brushing his own hands off on his pants, flinging dust and the stains away as if by magic. Dream Logic. Archer was trying to present himself as respectable now. Of course he would need to in his new friends home!

He was a guest.

mushroom: can you feel your heart burning? can you feel the struggle within? the fear within me is beyond anything your soul can make. you cannot kill me in a way that matters