Musings

"Come live with me and be my love,

And we will all the pleasures prove,"

The first line is all single syllable words, and it's 8 syllables in total, as is the second line. However, the second to last word is the only one that has 2 syllables.

I wanted to compose a response that was sort of the flip side of the coin. I'm not skilled enough to match the specific syllable structure and still convey what I wanted but I do like what I ended up with! I also wanted to use the same/similar language and structure as it is supposed to be a response. What I came up with has 8 syllables for each line and instead of the first line only having 1 syllable words both have the structure of the second line. It's better to see it together as it's a response.

"Come, live with me and be my love,

And we will all the pleasures prove,"

"Come, live my love with proven pleasure,

And Zayne, being the Master of Fate and God of Annihilation was able to bind MC and his fate together, permanently, and in every dimension. More recently, being able to freeze a part of the ocean waves as they're currently crashing is no joke, along with the ability to make anything he wants out of ice. Plus there's what we've seen with Dawnbreaker and his time as a combat medic.

The answer is time, and the riddle isn't really applicable to it. Time doesn't "exist at every moment" it *is* every moment. You can leave time by dying lol though your remains remain in time. Additionally, I do think you can explain time.

This riddle also contradicts itself by saying "you can see me" and then "you can't see me" when it's more about being able to see the signs of time.

So I think the translation team made a mistake with this. Which is totally okay! I'm grateful for all the work they do and sometimes things happen. But here's my attempt at a better riddle:

"I have no form, but am constant. Although you can see signs of me, I cannot be touched. You are always affected by me, yet I cannot be seen. Although you understand me, I'm inexplicable. What am I?"

(I do think you can explain time though but you know.)

A/N: Personally the thought of spending someone else's money is so distasteful to me, I really hate the thought of it. My idea of Luxury and Decadence is the same as MC in this fic, so I wondered how the LI's would deal with that. Regarding Caleb his money, and a pragmatic, independent MC who likes saving money, and who considers luxuries to be things like “getting the name brand groceries.” This is more like musings than a full fic, but I hope you enjoy!

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Caleb himself, growing alongside you, has the same idea of luxury. Things like getting the pricier groceries at the grocery store, buying clothes at the mall instead of a thrift store, being able to fill up the gas tank, handmade gifts – that’s luxury to him. So, when he actually has money he doesn’t quite know what to do with it except for those things. He’s nothing if not pragmatic and he funnels money into investments, and a high yield savings account. His paycheck is split between his expenses, his investments, his savings, and of course, the “whatever” money, used for whatever he wants/needs at the moment. You manage your money in a similar way, and easily maintain your lifestyle. In a way, he views his earnings as a matter of course, something mandatory for him to achieve. He doesn’t quite know what to do with it, but of course he’d take care of you with it, and of course he’d do what’s needed to earn enough money for both of you to be comfortable, and, if it came to it, for you to be comfortable alone.

・・・

That new money? A portion of it, Caleb spends on his residence. Now, he doesn’t go overboard and add things just to add them, and his house isn’t ostentatious or tacky in any way. It’s comfortable and has whatever necessary. He wants it to be comfortable for you, so he’ll add features and rooms you’ll like in addition to what he wants. For instance here’s a small workshop with a display case for his models, a room dedicated to your hobbies. The kitchen is state of the art and the bathroom is spacious and modern. The beds have comfortable, high quality mattresses and bedding. There’s a place to store your weapons and a place to train and exercise. There’s a thorough, effective security system to protect the residents – I.E, you. Though, to be honest any idiot who managed to break into the place would be met with an irate hunter and furious farspace colonel. His residence perfectly reflects the regard he has for you, it’s a perfect encapsulation of both of your requirements in a home.

・・・

Caleb’s gifts for you are split into different categories, and all of his gifts fit one or more of these. First and foremost, he’ll gauge what you need, and then buy you a gift that fulfills that need, and that he thinks you’ll like. Second, if you don’t need anything, then he gets you something he knows you want. Caleb is very attentive, and takes note of whatever catches your fancy. Third is the “impulsive” gifts. The gifts he gets for you for no reason, other than that he saw them and thought of you. They’re not things you need, or things you know you want, but instead these are things that Caleb thinks you’ll like. And given how well he knows you, he’s always on the money.

Any gifts you give him are taken care of meticulously, and if he can he keeps it with him as much as possible. (As evidenced by the necklace) He really loves it when you give him gifts, because although he knows for sure that you care about him as much as he cares about you, having a physical reminder helps ground him. You make him feel safe and stable, which is something he sorely needs and greatly appreciates.

・・・

Caleb wants to take care of you and cherish you, and the way he goes about it is almost… automatic and sometimes really quite subtle. In general, anytime he invites you anywhere he pays, be it food, tickets, souvenirs, ect. If he invited you, you aren’t paying, no matter what you say. If you invited him, he offers to pay but abides by your decision. The more subtle ways go a little like this:

“Hey, Pip-squeak may I please borrow your car to go get groceries for our dinner?” The answer is yes of course, and lo and behold – the car returns full up on gas, and your refrigerator is fully stocked for the next two weeks.

“Oh, Pip-squeak I noticed that your washer machine was on the fritz, so I figured I’d call for repairs, is that alright?” If you say something along the lines of “Oh, yeah I was meaning to do that.” or anything affirmative – even “Ah, I’m waiting until I can afford it”, he’ll set up the repair appointment for a time he’ll be at your place and pay for it. He’ll accept repayment from you if you insist upon it, but that money is going into a savings account specifically for you. Very often, whenever he notices something wrong, he’ll enact repairs for you himself. If he knows enough about how to repair whatever needs it, he’ll take care of it. Caleb is a smart man, after all. That also means that he knows when to leave it to the professionals. You repair things yourself of course, when needed, but those times less frequent now.

Ask to help him, he’ll be so happy. He get to spend time with you, while helping you out? He couldn’t be happier. Even if you don’t help, and just sit and keep him company, he’ll be happy as a clam, as often he doesn’t need help, though it’s always appreciated.

Very often, he’ll pay for something and you’ll intend to pay him back, but he’ll never mention the matter and distract you from remembering to pay him back.

Written on a note attached to a package holding new, top of the line hunter’s equipment: “Pip-squeak - Stay Safe out there! Your equipment is nearing the end of it’s safe use window, so I got a new set for you. Think of it as an early birthday gift ;)” In the package is the new, state of the art hunters equipment perfectly tailored to you.

In short, he really just beats you to it. If you want to pay for yourself you gotta be quick on the draw! He’ll let you, but he tries to not even give you the opportunity. But, he’s never angry when you pay, and if you pay for him he loves it. Being taken care of, most especially by you, is something he lives for. The reciprocal care between you two is his most treasured relationship.

I am an artist (drawing), so I wanted to explore this scenario! Personally, as an artist I’d be a bit nervous for Rafayel to know about my art, but I believe he’d support our creative endeavors wholeheartedly. In this scenario, MC is someone who does traditional illustrations and paintings, and is an extremely good artist but is somewhat insecure when it comes to Rafayel knowing about their art. [Alt title: Mothlight] XD Basically art is the light and Rafayel and MC are the moths. Artists will always create! Fun fact, the art I mention is something I'm planning to draw!

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You take great care to keep your skill and art private. You only post your art on SNS, never your face or voice. You don’t even post process videos showing your hands.

You have quite the following, and the mystery surrounding you contributes to that growth. People find your art fascinating and dynamic. It’s so varied. Some pieces are deep, layered and complex, and others are silly. They can be fun or serious. Frankly, as an artist you have the range!

Because of your job as a hunter, you don’t need to take commissions, so you don’t. It also gives you the knowledge to depict wanderers with uncanny accuracy, and you’d best believe some people have noticed, leading to rampant speculation.

Of course you knew Rafayel’s work. He’s one of your biggest inspirations, someone who’s work you admired and loved. Rafayel’s work encouraged your own creativity.

Rafayel loves seeing all different art from everywhere by anyone. Creativity is inspirational and anyone can create!.

Anyone includes you. Little did you know, Rafayel loved your work too. He found it unique and interesting. Your use of motion, and color, the line weight, the composition, all the elements in your art mesmerized him because it was so different from his art. But he didn’t know it was your art, you just happened to be an unknown artist he came across and really admired.

The piece that caught his attention was a charcoal illustration of an artist drawing a statue in a studio with a sea view. Her body was angled away from the camera, her face in profile, the piece on her canvas half finished as she caressed the pristine face of the white marble statue, her hand covered in charcoal smudges. The sea outside was choppy, but the weather wasn’t stormy just windy.

Rafayel followed you immediately from his private, anonymous account.

When you met him, you were chill and calm, admiring his work but keeping it to yourself as you were on the job. Besides, he didn’t seem like the type to want to listen to what others said about his work, unless he cared about their opinion or found what they were saying to be with merit. But you just met him, so your opinion wouldn't be important to him, and you honestly didn’t feel qualified enough to comment, so you said nothing, even as you stated working as his bodyguard. It wasn’t a secret, per se as you never resolved to keep it from him but you also just never actually told him.

Artists ask those close to them about their work, and want their input. It’s one fun and good way for them to include those they care about in their work. Rafayel is no different. It is through those questions that Rafayel discovers your artist’s eye. Everyone has one, but it needs to be used and honed, and Rafayel could tell yours had been honed.

“Which color should I use?” He eagerly awaits your answer. “Hmm, I would choose that one. It’ll add some interesting contrast to the piece and I love how vibrant it is. But, if you think the other one is better, use that one. You’re the professional after all.” Rafayel smiles, and dips his paintbrush into the color you chose. “As a professional, I agree with your assessment, cutie. Perhaps you should paint these pieces instead~” You giggle at this, jokingly protesting. “No Way! One, I love your art and I know you love your art too. Two, Thomas would have a cow.”

“What do you think?” Rafayel presents a page of his sketchbook, the art messy and unpolished, but exquisite nonetheless. “It’s interesting! The composition is very dynamic and clever. Using it to direct the eye and misdirect the viewer from the depths you’ve painted to the surface adds a lot to the piece.” He asks you questions like this frequently.

In those times you draw together, he can tell you have skill. He can also tell you’re a little insecure from your reluctance to draw with him. It makes sense, he supposes, for someone who’s not necessarily an artist, or even someone who was an artist, to be intimidated to draw with him, but he doesn’t care about your skill level. He wants to do something he loves, art, with someone he loves – you. He’s reassuring and playful, and doesn’t pressure you.

During all of this, you keep posting your art online, and he keeps seeking it out. Things start to pile up. Every artist has their own style, and he’s noticing that elements of yours...and elements of one of his favorite artists were matching up.

Line weight, color, motion, technique, all were similar. But in order to know for sure, he’d have to see more art he knew was yours. So far, he just had small sketches and art from when you did art together. Or, of course, if his favorite online artist posted art he knew was yours for sure.

He wants you to feel secure and safe enough with him to share your art or other things with him, so he doesn’t voice his suspicions, especially since they aren’t confirmed. But he’s curious, and does want to confirm. Who wouldn't, in this situation?

Rafayel is devious, crafty. Most of all, he’s patient. If it turns out he’s wrong, no issue. It just means he’ll be able to introduce you to this hobby he loves, sharing it with you at the start, an ideal situation. If he’s right, he’s thrilled. His favorite person is one of his favorite artists? He’ll be one of the only ones to know who they are? Another ideal situation honestly. Your creative process, the thought behind your work, he’s so fascinated.

He gifts you a sketchbook - high quality paper, a design tailored to you, hand-bound and the perfect size to fit in your bag of choice. Then, he waits. He knows that often you post your new sketchbooks when you get them, along with the first page. It’s a little tradition! Though you might not post some of them, if you posted this one, he’d know. It’s the only one of it’s kind in the world, after all.

Coincidentally, you were finishing your previous sketchbook, so his timing was impeccable, giving a new sketchbook to you right as you needed one.

Rafayel is in for a lovely shock, because not only do you post the sketchbook, the first few pieces in it are sketches of him. They’re referenced from photos, because you’ve never sketched him (or anything for that matter), around him unless you were working together.

This man is Elated. He loves your art. He loves you.

But of course, he never pressures you and waits until you share on your own.

“Cutie, should I buy up all your work so only I have it?” He laughs. “No, I know you want to share your work with the world, so I won’t do that. But I demand that you let me see everything you want to share first!”

Before, he was watching your art from afar. He might have asked to collaborate/mentioned/featured your art but you seemed like you wanted to be left alone to do your own thing, and he respected that. Him mentioning you would have put you under increased scrutiny, and, if he was being quite honest he wanted to keep his inspirations secret, of which you were/are one.

Now, though, he wants to collaborate, officially. If you think that you’re not at his level, that you’re work isn’t good enough to be intertwined with his, he disavows you of that notion, thoroughly but gently.

‘Oh please. I’ve wanted to collaborate with you since before I knew it was you. Besides, you know me. Do you really think I’d work with someone who’s art I didn’t love?” So, you start doing collaborations and the art world flips out.

Eventually, you entrust Thomas with the secret, and he proposes your own exhibit. Thomas firmly believes your art is worthy of it, irregardless of your connection to Rafayel. He’s a professional, and, like Rafayel, he only works with artists who’s work he loves.

To be fully transparent, he’d been considering trying to reach out to you before he found out and propose an exhibit anyway, so this is great! Especially since your work is so unique.

Rafayel guards the secret of your identity jealously. If you don’t want anyone to know, no one will.

Any art you give him gets a place of honor somewhere in his house.

The two of you often “talk shop” and go over aspects of your works in progress, giving feedback, critique, and love/appreciation and encouragement.

You’ll go on outings to sketch together. It’s so interesting to see the different things each of you has noticed and focused on about whatever place or things you were sketching!

Whenever either of you gets too absorbed in your work, the other will make sure you eat, drink and rest.

Once/if you gave him permission, one of his favorite things to do would be to flip through your sketchbooks, just looking at your art, committing it to memory.

Art, for you is a shared expression of your creativity, love, and passions, no matter the subject or feeling. He values your input and contributions, recognizes your skill and most of all, loves you as a person and your art, and you do the same for him. Both you and Rafayel inspire and learn from each other.

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A/N: The thought of spending someone else's money is so distasteful to me, or having someone spend a lot on me, but I think each of the Love Interests would not hesitate in that regard lol. My idea of Luxury and Decadence is the same as MC in this fic, so I wondered how the LI's would deal with that. So, here it is - regarding Rafayel, his money, and a pragmatic, independent MC who likes saving money, and who considers luxuries to be things like “getting the name brand groceries.” This is more like musings than a full fic, but I hope you enjoy!

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Rafayel is very adept at subtly spending money on you, and he most definitely takes advantage of your position as his bodyguard to do that. The main reasons he hired you for were in order to keep you close, and he loves seeing you display your capabilities and skills. Having you be his bodyguard was the perfect position, in that regard. Any on the job expenses are covered. It just so happens that the list of on the job expenses is way more extensive than you would think. Travel expenses? Covered. Food? Covered. Clothes? Paid for. All under the guise of your bodyguard duties, but he only mentions it if you insist on paying. He’s very careful not to overstep, though, but if anything could logically be defined as a part of your “job”, you are not paying for it, and this is in addition to your salary. Because of the way he goes about it, you rarely refuse, much to his delight. He knows though, that you would refuse if you felt it was too much, or unnecessary, or unwise. You’re very smart with your money, which he respects and appreciates.

Ah, that. It’s not an allowance. Your job as a hunter means that you don’t need Rafayel’s money, and if it was an allowance it would imply the opposite. That’s something neither of you desire, at all. Him paying you counts threefold:

You earned it, of course.

He wants to take care of you, and this is a way you’ll actually let him do it.

It’s a way for him to maintain the facade in the beginning, before your relationship grew.

It’s a dance, an exchange – playful banter in physical form. He jokingly “makes” you pay for him sometimes, but you’re always willing, and he always makes sure you get some too. Eventually, it gets to the point where you treat him, he treats you, though the scope is a bit different on your parts. You might buy him some flowers that reminded you of him from a street vendor, but on another occasion he buys you a bouquet from an exclusive, luxury florist. It must be noted that Rafayel is by no means a snob. Beauty can come from anywhere after all, and he’ll always be able to find it no matter the circumstance, especially if he’s with you. Prestige, expense, designer brands, luxury items, he doesn’t care, it’s an irrelevant factor to whether he likes something or not. If he likes it, he likes it - cheap or Expensive.

・・・

The food, clearly expertly prepared and absolutely delicious, tastes both amazing and delicious in your mouth, the regret and embarrassment you feel tainting the food. Rafayel had planned an absolutely lovely night out. The ambiance was lively, the food mouthwatering and the conversation you had been having was enthralling and wide-ranging, something that ebbed and flowed and evolved as naturally as breathing.

All it took was a few stray thoughts, something fleeting that you dismissed. I’m so lucky...Rafayel treats me to such luxury but I can’t reciprocate. I want to contribute equally to the relationship. What can he possibly be getting out of this, or see in me? He deserves someone who can give him everything good, and I...I’m not that person, I don’t think.. How can picking up fun beverages at a cheap cafe and drinking them at a park even compare to a luxury meal in an exquisite restaurant? Even though you dismissed this thought, it kept returning, and took root, insidious tendrils of doubt and sorrow burrowing though your mind. Though you tried your best to hide it, Rafayel knew something was bothering you. He was attuned to your emotions because he loved you and cared about you. Even without the bond, he’d still know.

“Y/N, whats wrong?” His voice took on a playful affectation. “What dares make you sad? Shall I...take care of it for you?” You couldn’t help but smile. The meal had almost ended, you were just waiting for the check.

“Nothing’s wrong, per se.” Rafayel remained silent, waiting and encouraging you to continue, which you did. “I worry about you. You’re such an amazing, fascinating, fun skilled person. You deserve someone better than me, I think. How do I even contribute to this relationship? I want to treat you how you deserve but I don’t think I can do that. What do you even get from being with me?” Just for a second, Rafayel looked absolutely stricken, a deep, abiding hurt evident on his face. It mad you feel even worse. You could feel the sting of tears building in your eyes as guilt was added to the mix.

Rafayel immediately dropped a few 100 dollar bills on the table, enough to cover the price and a hefty tip for the meal, got up and offered his arm to you. Taking it, he led you out of the restaurant and to a hidden, private spot on the beach.

“Please look at me.” He peers earnestly into your eyes, his hands gently holding your arms. The stunning sunset framed his face against the ocean as you gazed at him, and he smiled. “I want to be with you. You’re a fascinating, amazing person who enriches my life with your presence.” He embraces you in a warm, comforting hug. “Just being with you makes me happy. You make me laugh, we can talk about anything and you understand me, I can be myself around you. All these things aren’t even the half of it! The amount of money you spend on me doesn’t matter at all. I don’t care about extravagance or luxury, I care about you.”

・・・

Rafayel’s style of gift giving is specific and focused. He doesn’t attempt to buy whole stores to gift you, nor does he buy everything you show the slightest interest in, in addition to extremely thoughtful gifts. His gifts are always gifts that have thought put into them, but they can be silly! The range is extensive. A beautiful shell that reminds him of you, sketches and illustrations, books, and jewelry are among the more “serious” gifts. Sillier gifts include a “You’ve been poisoned.” mug, a blowfish keychain, different sketches and illustrations, and a bouquet of dandelions in seed (to make wishes, and of course you deserve more than one) amongst other things.

He obviously takes care of the gifts you give him, but they aren’t in a shrine or anything. For example, if you gift him art utensils he absolutely uses them all the time, but where he might just throw his other utensils anywhere or not wash his paintbrushes, choosing to let them languish in a cup of water, any utensils you give him are washed, put away carefully, and handled with care. You’re are incredibly important to him, and thus your gifts are too!

・・・

Rafayel loves to lavish you in luxury, as he believes you deserve the best, and he can. It comes naturally to him. He never makes you feel manipulated or like you owe him anything, and if you ever feel bad about it, he reassures you, making sure your self-esteem is at a level that matches his respect and love for you, as if you’re a goddess. But he also appreciates simple things, and truly enjoys just walking around a beautiful park with you, or a library date, or hanging out at home. As long as he’s with you, he’s happy, no matter what.

A/N: Happy Birthday Sylus! (This has been an Idea of mine for a while lol I just so happened to write it now) I've seen other, lovely fics where Sylus spends money on MC and wants them to spend his money on themselves. But personally the thought of spending someone else's money is so distasteful to me, I really hate the thought of it. My idea of Luxury and Decadence is the same as MC in this fic, so I wondered how the LI's would deal with that. (l do plan to do the others!) Anyway - Some Musings about money, a pragmatic MC who’s definitions of Luxury differ from Sylus’s and how he deals with that. This is more like small vignettes tied together and not a full fic, but I hope you enjoy nonetheless!

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“5 Million, otherwise they’ll think I’m broke.” Sylus’s deep voice sounded in your ear, and you couldn’t help but snort under your breath.

“Or they’ll think you’re stupid, for paying way more than it’s worth.” You whispered, knowing only he could hear it. But since it was his decision and his money, you bought the protocore for 5 million, ignoring the pit in your stomach at the thought of spending that much of someone else’s money. Little did you know, that small exchange would initiate a domino of events, a single thread in the tapestry of your relationship with Sylus.

・・・

Sylus sighed, looking down at his phone, the notification from his bank taunting him. Earlier, he had given you his card, insisting you go out and buy clothes for an upcoming event in the N109 Zone - Black market gala, information hub, the usual for his line of work. You would be accompanying him of course, as your goals aligned. He made sure of that. Apparently, the implication that there was no limit to what you could spend was lost on you. In fact, he wanted you to get whatever expensive designer clothes and accessories your heart desired. Which is why the notification that you spent 187 dollars at a thrift store bothered him so. When you arrived for the mission prep at his place, he took the opportunity to tease you.

“187 dollars? Who knew you had such expensive tastes, Kitten.” It backfired for him, though, as you winced.

“I’m sorry, I tried to keep the cost as low as possible. I can pay you back!” Sylus internally facepalmed. There was no way he was going to have you pay back that paltry amount, especially when it had been such a battle to get you to use his card for this in the first place. He only succeeded when he framed it as work expenses, as if he had hired you, and listed out all the practical reasons for you to use his card, such as making sure your purchase history couldn’t be linked to activity in the N109 zone. (Which was why you mostly used cash when you where there.)

He had to admit though, that your money sense was impressive. The outfit you had managed to put together from the thrift store was absolutely stunning. Everyone around you would be intimidated and impressed by you, as they should be. It probably would have cost at least 2,000 dollars, designer label and brand new. He supposed the cost didn’t really matter as long as you were happy, but he ached to see you in the lap of luxury, as he thought you deserved. As he looked at you though, he was love-struck. Sylus felt incredibly lucky to be at your side, and happy that you wanted him there.

・・・

Concerned, you look at Sylus, who’s expression is displeased, as if he had just swallowed a lemon. Raising an eyebrow you asked him - “Are you alright?”

“Sweetie, you live on how much a month?” He was appalled, and you didn’t help the situation by misunderstanding the reason for his dismay.

“Oh, don’t worry. It’s really low, all things considered. With my hunter’s salary it’s easily doable and I have enough to put in savings, an emergency fund and for fun afterwards.” Your smile is radiant as you continue. “I’m grateful to be in a comfortable position.” A smile grows across Sylus’s face in response, because he really does admire you and is proud of the work you do. He just thinks you deserve any luxury you could ever want.

“Of course you have everything handled. I’d expect nothing less of you, kitten.”

・・・

The crux of the matter was, of course, that you and Sylus had very different ideas of luxury and decadence. To you, things like buying the more expensive foods while grocery shopping, splurging on small treats, and sometimes going out were all luxuries to you. But for him, things like a private chef, the newest model motorcycles, designer clothes, state of the art technology, and so on were all luxuries that he wanted to share with you.

His least favorite words to hear from your mouth are “I don’t need it.” You say it almost all the time when he tries to spend his money on you. It’s not a lie though, you genuinely are refusing his attempts to buy you some of these things because you truly do not need or want them. But sometimes, you graciously accept them. He loved it when you did. It made him feel wanted and accepted, as well as triumphant because he felt that you were receiving what you deserved.

・・・

The key was to figure out the common denominators when you accepted his gifts, which was easy enough as Sylus was a smart man, and one who paid particular attention to you. It was a fun game he played with himself, teasing you in the process.

You almost never turned down gifts, as long as you didn’t see him buy them, and as long as you didn’t feel like it was excessive. A single expensive bottle of a perfume you loved? A single set of jewelry? Small treats? Expensive dinners and outings he invited you to? All of those you’d let him pay, and accept. Buying the company that makes the perfume or all the jewelry he thought would suit you? Not accepted.

Every time he tried to get you to use his card it was a battle. You’d almost always refuse, only acquiescing if he framed it as necessary for work or as something you could do in order to help him.

You were loath to spend more for things that you thought they were worth. A designer name meant nothing to you. Multiple versions of something when you only needed one? Out of the question.

It seemed to come down to a balance, anything he provided seemed to be fine as long as it wasn’t something that made you feel obligated, or manipulated, something you thought he might use against you. (Not that he would, but you, your memories gone, didn’t know that.) The two of you were still learning about each other, it just so happened that he knew more right now.

・・・

It was simple - all he had to do was treat you as you deserved, like his most treasured connection, his partner, equal in all things and deserving only the best. He’d give you gifts that you would accept, things you found useful, things you wanted, never making you feel trapped. It was all up to you. Eventually you’d get used to it, and eventually he’d make sure you rose your standards, and wouldn’t question when he treated you to only the best. You’d come to expect it, as you should, he’d make sure of that. Sylus had resolved to be with you, his partner, his equal and he would always treat you like the treasured person you were to him, who deserved only the best that he could offer, happy to spend his days with you, and that would never change.

Brought to you because I have an extremely large dog XD

Important Note: I might not mention it explicitly but know that if they are outside, not in a yard or anything, the dog is on a leash. Dogs should always be leashed when not inside or in a fenced area, and you should always ask before approaching them. It’s safest for everyone and the dogs!

Tried to make it a combination of silly and sweet ^J^

Tags: Fluff, Humor

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Xavier

Xavier has a way with animals, as the birds perched on his window, serenading him can attest. The neighborhood wildlife loves him. Perhaps it’s his calm and gentle aura, or perhaps it’s simply his generosity with food. (What you don’t realize is that they love you as well!) But despite that, it was still a bit nerve-wracking to introduce your dog to him.

Your dog was your best friend and beloved comrade, who had been by your side a significant portion of your life. The both of you had been through a lot together. Lately, you and Xavier were growing closer, and you quite enjoyed his company.

Xavier was becoming a steadfast, reliable and intelligent friend, gentle and sweet, but funny and sharp as well. You liked hanging out with him even outside of work, and working together was as easy as breathing. So, you figured that it was time to take the next step, and introduce him to your dog, as long as Xavier was willing.

It was a sort of litmus test. Depending on how Xavier reacted to a dog the height of the kitchen counters, you’d adjust accordingly. Then, there was the matter of how your dog reacted. If it was positive or neutral, all would be well. If it was an immediate, extreme dislike, you’d take note, as that would be different then just having to warm up to someone.

“Xavier, would you like to meet my dog? I have to give you a fair warning though, as my dog is extremely large. You can say no, of course! I just thought it would be nice for you two to meet each other.”

Xavier had been quite curious about your dog, actually. He had definitely heard them, and seen them with you, going on neighborhood walks, though that was from a distance so he had no idea of their actual size. And, he would never admit it, but he was the tiniest bit jealous of them. By meeting your dog, Xavier could spend more time with you.

“I’d love to meet your dog, and I’m sure I can handle the experience given our line of work.” His slight, subtle smile is teasing. And so, it was decided. They would meet each other at a park (neutral territory) and Xavier would be armed with treats in a bid to win favor, if needed.

“That...is a stunningly large dog.” Xavier was definitely taken slightly of guard, he knew your dog was large, but the true scale had escaped him. The dog’s nose was level with his stomach. “Are you sure you don’t have a hellhound?” Xavier’s earnest tone made you giggle.

At Xavier’s approach, their ears pricked up, their 2 foot long tail slightly moving back and forth. When you greeted him eagerly though, the tail wagging became more vigorous, starting to prance and play. Delighted, you played around with your dog, petting them, dancing around and gushing about how cute and adorable they were.

He could have sworn his eyes flashed green with jealousy, but he knew it was silly to be jealous of your beloved pet. Instead, he focused on how happy you sounded, giggling and laughing as you romped around with your gigantic dog.

Xavier holds out a hand to sniff, and they do. It takes a second, but to your happiness both of them are getting along! Your dog leans into Xavier, their full body-weight resting against his legs, tail thwacking against them. Xavier reciprocated, gracing your dog with scritching all the best spots. It makes you genuinely happy to see them together. It was heartwarming, your two favorites bonding.

He looks at you, and seeing how joyous you are warms his heart even more. Experiences like these, with you, were all he really wanted.

Xavier wins your dog over, or rather it might be the other way around, the way Xavier is showering them with affection and attention. What can he say? Your dog is adorable, loving, playful and gentle. It’s understandable why you love them so much.

“Our Dog now.”

“What?”

“What?”

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Sylus

He knew you had a pretty large dog, of course, it was one of the many things he knew about you through Mephisto’s...occasional surveillance. The true size of the dog in question, however, was a different matter entirely. After all, there’s only so much you can tell from a distance, through video. Thus, he was not prepared when he showed up to your apartment and encountered your own personal hellhound of a dog, steadfastly guarding you against any perceived threat, including him.

Sylus approved. He quite liked dogs in general, but your dog was special because you loved them, and your dog loved you, kept you safe, and made you happy. How could he dislike them? Sylus petted their velvet ears and scratched under their chin, your dog groaning in contentment, their long tail making loud thwacking noises as it hit the wall from waving back and forth.

This only happened after your dog had been barking and snarling at him, but that was no problem. Besides, why begrudge a guard dog for guarding? All he had to do was let your dog determine for himself that he wasn’t a threat, at least, not to you. Never to you.

When your dog saw that you, yourself knew Sylus, and how he behaved towards you, their behavior changed. They walked over, investigating the man by snuffling around him. Apparently, his scent met the high approval standards, because your dog then proceeded to wag their tail, sit, and ask cutely for Sylus’s attention, which Sylus gladly gave.

Your heart melted at the interactions between the two. It was another facet to Sylus, the appreciation and respect he showed your valued friend interesting and revealing. The calm reaction to your dog’s staunch protectiveness was another mark in his favor. You were starting to realize that these mental marks of yours in his favor grew increasingly numerous.

Being somewhat calculating, it did occur to him that you might warm up to him faster if your dog liked him. It did not hurt, of course that your dog had a strong personality, much like you. Playing with them would only be a bonus.

His lips curl in amusement as a thought crosses his mind.

“What’s so funny, Sylus?” His name from your mouth thrilled him.

“You are, sweetie. An adorable kitten surrounding themselves with dangerous things, deceiving everyone who can’t tell that you’re the most ferocious of all.”

“Only if provoked. Anyway, why are you here? Just to play with my dog?”

“Not just that. I also want to play with you.” Your dog was now leaning fully against him, in that way large dogs do, and he found it cute.

“I suppose we can play.” The smirk that graces your face, coupled with your playful tone, fills him with satisfaction. “But you should be prepared to lose.”

“Always, sweetie. Losing to you is well worth my while.”

Before, the thought of being with you like this was a distant, well guarded hope. But here he was in your apartment, your dog cuddling up to him while you willingly gave him your time and attention. How fortunate for him to spend time with those he loved.

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Zayne

The first time he met your dog, it was while you were on a walk with them. It just so happened that your route went past a bakery he frequents. Zayne was purchasing his favorite sweets, and considering which one you might like when both you and your dog strode past the window, pausing briefly so they could sniff around the bakery door. Understandable as the scent of freshly baked goods was incredibly enticing.

Quickly, impulsively, he buys everything he was considering and leaves the shop, walking quickly to catch up with you, but he slows down as he gets closer. Of course you hear him approaching, and you command your dog to heel before you turn, right as he greets you. “Hello, unruly patient of mine.”

Laughing, you greet him in turn, your dog waiting patiently at your heel. “Greetings, strict doctor of mine.”

With your dog by your side, he’s struck by your powerful presence. Not that that is an abnormal occurrence, but the dog is entirely new. Zayne loves animals, and secretly the day the animals come to visit patients at the hospital is one of his favorites.

But, it is prudent to be cautious, having not met your dog yet, and especially because your dog is so large. In an effort to make you smile, he did try and crack a joke. “Taking the hellhound puppy for a jaunt?” Much to his delight, it worked.

“Indeed. It’ll be much harder when he’s the size of a building, so I should take the opportunity when I can. Would you like to join us?”

“I would love to.” Approaching slowly, he asks if he can pet your dog. It’s important to ask this question, even if the dog seems calm or friendly, and you appreciated the fact he asked because it showed respect for you and your dog. “You may.”

Gently, he rests his hand on your dogs head, not having to lower himself at all to do so, and starts scratching their ears. Your dog leans into his touch, tail wagging enthusiastically. He can only use one hand, as he’s holding baked goods in the other.

You walk together, talking and laughing. Zayne is acutely aware of you, how you move, your voice, the smell of your shampoo, and dozens of other small details.

Your dog catches the scent of the baked goods and starts sniffing the air. “Would you like to sniff it?” Zayne lowers the sealed bag closer to your dog’s adorable, wiggling nose. It was a heartwarming gesture, and you could feel the rush of affection for him. He didn’t give the dog any baked goods of course, but he figured the smells themselves were a fun treat. The action further endeared him to you, showing once again that Zayne’s personality really did match his tastes.

Your dog had handily wormed their way into his heart. They say dogs and their owners resemble each other, and he can see why. He can see echos of you in your dog, which only serves to strengthen his regard for you because he can see the strong bond between you. It was a bond of the same strength he hoped to have with you, someday, as his bond with you grew.

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Rafayel

“Well, you are very cute, I do agree. But unfortunately I know someone cuter.” [Picture Received] Rafayel’s joy at his cuteness being acknowledged was replace with mock outrage. How could anything be cuter than him? (Except you!) But he did have to admit, your dog was pretty dang adorable.

That was how he found out you had a dog.

You were opening up more, sharing things about yourself that you previously wouldn’t have. It didn’t matter how many times this happened, he loved learning about you, and there was always something new.

This discovery precipitated a flood of ideas in his mind, and he immediately fills pages of his current sketchbook. Later, when you were going to one of his exhibits together, he floated the idea of a series of animal themed paintings. Perhaps your dog could be a model?(In reality, it was themed around you and your dog in particular, and he was absolutely trying to spend more time with you under the guise of the painting sessions)

“Hmmm. Are you sure? I know you aren’t really comfortable around cats, so I thought that might be the case with dogs as well. Hence, why I don’t really talk about my dog with you or invite you to my place or anything. I didn’t want you to be uncomfortable, stressed out or scared. Doubly so because my dog is quite large.”

“Aww cutie, you’re so considerate! But don’t worry, I’m sure. Why don’t you bring your dog around tomorrow?” More time with you is always something he wants, whatever that entails. Rafayel is willing to face and overcome his fears for you, for nothing in return.

But the thing is, he’s not getting nothing. You’ve shown your care and compassion for him, actively spending time with him, helping him, and sharing your live with him. He truly believes that he’s the luckiest, when it comes to you.

“Okay, if you’re sure.” And so, tomorrow came and you arrived with your dog, who was prancing back and forth in excitement to be somewhere new. You were taking care so that the leash wouldn’t get tangled in his legs, and talking to him as you walked up to the studio.

“Aww are you excited? I’m excited too.” He watches as you do a playful little dance with your dog, finding it so endearing. “Now, just be chill. Rafayel could have chosen another dog but instead he asked for you! Isn’t that cool?”

He absolutely had no idea how big your dog actually was though, because photos are so bad at showing scale, unless there’s something for comparison. Realization hit him like a brick when you walked up with your dog and their shoulders were at your hip. To say he was flabbergasted would be an extremely accurate statement, but it wasn’t anything he couldn’t handle. Especially armed with dog treats, your dog was absolutely gonna love him.

He comes out to greet the two of you, making sure his body language is relaxed and nonthreatening, encouraging your dog to come and investigate.

“Suddenly I have an idea for a painting where your dog models a hell-hound. You would be a perfect model for Persephone, what do you say?” Your dog approaches him calmly and happily, sniffing around until they catch the scent of the treats, hidden in Rafayel’s pocket and focus their attention on it, sniffing vigorously. Their tail whips around eagerly and they prance, hoping to get a treat.

“Hmmmm maybe.” A glowing smile and a playful shrug accompany your coy tone. “Though beware I will charge a modeling fee.” Rafayel rests his hands on your dog’s ears, petting them and flapping them back and forth. Your dog is enchanted, and leans into his touch, bracing their entire body against his legs.

“As you should! Gotta make sure you get your due.” Rafayel switches to rubbing your dog’s neck, and scratching under their chin. He grants your dog a treat, because it’s deserved for being so lovely.

It was fun and heartwarming to see them interact, and that feeling permeated the session. He liked your dog and treated them well and was calm even though he was clearly taken aback by how big they were. Your dog liked him, too!

It was supposed to be a modeling job for your dog, but honestly it devolved into the three of you spending time together and playing around. Not that any of you were complaining, of course.

Though it didn’t seem like a modeling session, Rafayel absolutely did sketch his favorite moments when you weren’t really paying attention. You hadn’t had such a fun time in a while, but it seemed you always did have fun with him.

Living life with you was what he wanted. He cherished the things he experienced with you and through you, he was able to make a new friend. What more could he ask for?