#far dorcha

                                                                At first glance, she thought he was one of Donia’s fey, as he seemed as pale as the snow around them, but when she looked again, he seemed to be as dark as the sky at new moon. Light and dark shifted in and out of his skin, and his eyes flickered to the opposite of the hue his skin was in that instant.

𝕱𝖆𝖗 𝕯𝖔𝖗𝖈𝖍𝖆, 𝕯𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖍

“At first glance, she thought he was one of the winter fey as he seemed as pale as the snow around them, but when she looked again, he seemed to be as dark as the 𝖘𝖐𝖞 𝖆𝖙 𝖓𝖊𝖜 𝖒𝖔𝖔𝖓. The light and dark shifted in and out of his skin, and his eyes flickered to the opposite of the hue his skin was in that instant.

Her gaze kept slipping to his garishly red shirt. It was hard to miss and, along with being an assaultingly 𝖇𝖗𝖎𝖌𝖍𝖙 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖉𝖊 𝖔𝖋 𝖗𝖊𝖉, it clung to his chest and arms so much that it would look foolish on most people. On him, it looked natural.”

Roth O'Connell The past month had been rather odd if Roth could call it that. He had gained a new neighbor which wasn't strange at all since houses were bought and sold quite a bit in Seaside District. It was a poor neighborhood, with a plentiful amount of rats, human and animal, running about. It was a horrible district if Roth were honest, but it was a cheap place to live. Now Roth hadn't expected much from his new neighbor, perhaps a few greetings in the morning and perhaps evening hours after he got home from acting as a guard of sorts to a jewelry shop in Trader's District. What he hadn't expected was his neighboring saunting, literally sauntering over with swaying hips and a colorful look that sent most women to shame, to his home the very first day to ask for a hand with some boxes. Roth had agreed easily enough, willing to help a new face that seemed kind enough.

Oddly enough the next day, his neighbor whom he had learned went by the name of Far Dorcha, came over once more to ask if he could borrow some tools. Again Roth agreed easily enough and even offered his services to fix or put up whatever it was that Far needed putting up. Far seemed rather pleased by that and had sat the whole time watching Roth work away on setting a shelf up in the small living room. Roth had a suspicion that Far had been staring at something besides his back that whole time. But what made Roth's whole month odd was that Far continuely asked for little things each day and would always repay with dinner or coin. By the end of the second week, Roth had grown so use to Far's visits that he had started refusing payment, simply doing the jobs as a friend would. It wasn't an issue in his eyes now, he rather enjoyed being near Far.

Towards the last day of the month, Roth waited as usual for Far to arrive. He always came knocking around this time and Roth had built his schedule around it in a way, but this time Far hadn't shown a hair of his pretty head. Roth hadn't even seen him that morning which was odd, but the large man had shrugged it off as nothing. People got busy or slept in some mornings, Far must have done that he had thought. When the sun had dipped even lower in the sky, signaling evening, Roth grew increasingly worried. His new and possibly only friend hadn't shown up on his daily rounds. Would it be silly to visit and be worrying for nothing? Roth mulled that thought over. He was possessed by something to check up on the other, but thought it embarrassing if he found the other perfectly fine. What was he to do?

Far Dorcha He wasn't very proud of the means, but Far Dorcha made do with what he could to make ends meat. He sold his body to whomever had the coin for it. And really he'd stumbled upon it by necessity. When circumstanced had forced him to abandon his home country, he'd come to Port Gamble seeking any sort of fortune he could for himself. The cirty had a reputation for being a proverbial mixing pot of business and cultures. The rumors were true of course, the problem was inherent in starting anew and finding footing. He was homeless for quite some time, managed to sneak into the bath houses whenever he could without paying because being clean wasn't cheap but it damn sure was a necessity of his. Only he got caught, and the only way to keep from getting reported was to suck the man off. Subsequenly he'd done it so well he'd earned himself a month of free baths. And thus, opportunity had presented itself.

He propositioned his sexual blackmailer for more at a price. It was seized upon and thus Far Dorcha had food. When he was no longer an emaciated wretch, he began using the bath house as a sort of live-in advertisement. He could spot the sly men, the ones who's eyes seemed drawn to his form admiringly, or possessive desire as the case often was, and would offer them the opportunity to act upon their desires. It wasn't always easy. You give a man an inch and they take a mile. And his clients were always men. Women were put off by his feminine mannerisms while men sought to dominate him, as if offended. Beatings, however, were an unfortunate side effect. One he could and would tolerate to survive as he'd so done in the past.

His patience served well. Before long he had a steady income and was able to get his very own apartment. Even as sparesly furnished as it first was, he adored it, rats and all for it was his. The few furnishings he had were amassed from adoring customers who sought to spoil him and some odds and ends he'd bought ambitously. He thought it rather nice and modest and so it would do for now. However, unpacking them seemed a damn chore to do alone, hard labor was not his thing. Luckily, he'd spotted a rather large, handsome (and hopefully handy) neighbor when first apartment hunting. He sauntered on over and flashed his most charmingly coy smile. It worked like a charm.

As Roth seemed rather eager and reliable, (and he may or may not have developed a silly crush) he always found something he was in need of, some excuse to see Roth daily. Some tools to put up shelves, which Roth offered his services without seemig put upon. A little bit of sugar for some pie he had decided needed baking. A towel, tea cup, some furniture needed rearranging as he'd bought chais lounge chair that also happened to need to be brought up the stairs. All of it without a complaint or asking for compensation. It was like living with a saint.

Though he did offer compensation. He'd slip some coin in Roth's pocket or apartment when he could because otherwise he would refusether unheard of for Far and he found he would not have it. Other times, when money was sparse but favors were not, he cooked meals. And gradually it became habit for him to cook for two every third day. He would often invite Roth to his home; but if he was sick, or feigning sick in leu of recovering from injury and hiding his hurts, he would simply bring it over and make an excuse of being too tired to properly host. It was a rather nice routine.

A routine thoroughly spoiled by a horrible night with what had seemed to be a gentleman but was really a monster. He could only vaguely recall when violence of that scale had been put upon him, probably his last memory of his home country.He'd been paid and delivered home by the client's servants, and he wished the money hadn't been shoved in his pocketpocket because it made him feel filthy. For the first time in a long time he hated himself thoroughly. But as he was placed in bed and the servants had graciously administered him an opiate to numb the pain enough for sleep, he was thankful for the peace and oblivion that followed. It was ruined, however, by the harsh morning light that assaulted his face through his open curtains. And all at once the pain came at him and he wished they'd left him another syringe to combat the paint hat seemed to cover his every inch of skin that left him utterly immobile. It turns out, they had. Only it was on his bureau and well out of reach. He cried, knowing full well he'd brought this on himself, as that detestable man had so thoroughly ingrained into him the night before.

And just when he thought his pain was unbearable, there came a knock at the door that heralded an even more unbearable scenario that caused him to tense and cause another round of pain racked his savaged body, Roth seeing him in this state. He kept quiet, hoping the sweet man would think him sleeping and leave. Only when he heard the door handle turn he gasped and gave a yell that had his ribs screaming in protest. "GO AWAY!"

Roth O'Connell It was entirely inproper and rude for him to even consider letting himself into the other's home, but honest to the almighty gods he was just worried for his friend. Though when that sharp pain filled shout came flying at him from within the home, Roth retreated a fraction before furrowing his brows as he heard the great pain that was in the other's voice. This made him push aside the sense of being rude and made him fully enter the home. His dark eyes which most thought to be black glanced about the rather well furnished little home before spotting the stairs and the soft light coming from the room up there. It was candle light and it flickered gently. The sounds of a strained breath could be heard and this pushed Roth to ascend the stairs. They creaked under his heavy boots as he approached. "Far? Are y' alrigh'?" he called, hand on the wall as his other went down to touch the hilt of his sword. His movements were measured as he walked up each step, the creak of the wooden stairs made him wince as they seemed far louder than he would have liked.

As Roth made it to the top of the staircase and poked his head into the room where the candle flickered faintly. His eyes scruntinized every inch of the room before falling upon the beaten form of Far Dorcha in the bed. His heart seemed to turn to steel as he hurriedly approached and knelt like a knight at his side. "Wha' happened t' y'? Who did this?" he demanded, rough, work-hardened hands reaching out to touch that bruised beyond belief face. His touch was gentle as if he thought the other would crack like a glass vase. Far just looked that fragile

Far Dorcha Yelling had proved to be a mistake, the pain in his ribs erupted to unbearable levels that caused him to black out. His consciousness was wakened by the deep, grovelly accent he had come to treasure. The laughter from him was even more treasured for it's rarity. But as he came to, the horror of the scenario filled him utterly and he could not help the tears that came so readily to express his sorrow and shame. That Roth see him this was way utterly unbearable. Never had he felt more like filth. And crying hurt. He had forgotten that from the night before. "Please don't look at me," he begged in a whisper as he turned his head away so that the candle light did not catch his face and every bruise that littered his face and cut that split his lip.

But his pain was great, and so he was forced to shame himself further. He closed his one un-ruined eye and lamented his choices thus far in life. No way did he have any right to desire this man. He was dirty and low and the other deserved someone as kind and saintly as he was. "Please, they...left an opiate for pain...on my bureau. Please, give it to me and leave."

Roth O'Connell Roth looked to the small nightstand and at the syringe filled with what surely was the medicine that would numb the other. One big hand closed around it gently and brought it close to the other to show he held it. " 'm not leavin' y' like this...y' need someone t' tend t' y'." he said, eyes rapidly looking over that mangled body. With his free hand, Roth reached out to turn Far's head gently in his direction. Sure he was a man of little compassion, but he could hardly stand seeing a friend in such a condition. It made him want to choke out whoever had done this crime. "I ain' leavin' y'..." he stated, eyes burning fierce with a forcefulness that was sure to be noticed by Far Dorcha. " 'm goin' t' take care o' y'.."

Roth shifted a bit from his knelt position and took to sitting on the edge of the bed. He held the opiate in his one hand while his other worked delicately to feel all the bruises and lumps that riddled the other's body. "Who did this t' y'?"

Far Dorcha ‎"I just need sleep," he assured quietly, trying to will away the tears that were so persistently flowing in Roth's presence. Funny how Roth was touching him all over now searching for painful injuries when for weeks he'd fantasized those big gentle hands would caress him and bring him pleasure. That fantasy was sure to remain just that now. It was only a matter of time now before he figured out how Far Dorcha made his living. He thought it was a good thing Roth didn't yet know or his inspection might be more thorough, and /that/ would be mortifying beyond redemption.

His eyes alighted on the syringe, relief literally in sight. Far shook his head minutely before answering. "Doesn't matter. There isn't anything to be done for it but to please put me out of my misery." He wanted to escape from the pain and stress of reality as soon as possible. Beyond right now, beyond his abused body and tortured backside, there was an even harsher reality that he would not be able to work for a while. Weeks maybe. He would not be able to make rent. The thought made his tears flow anew.

Roth O'Connell Roth followed Far's gaze to the syringe in his hand. He felt like debating about using it, but at the same time he felt it was cruel of him to even think to leave Far in such pain. Thus he brought the instrument forward and gave the smallest of pricks to Far Dorcha's wrist before letting the numbing medicine flow into those veins. With a sigh he removed the syringe when it was empty and placed it on the nightstand. Roth shifted a bit once more and held the hand which had recieved the small needle. He calmly petted the pale skin as he sat there quietly as he noted the spell of sleep spilling over Far. "Y' may need sleep...but 'm stayin' heer wi' y'." he murmured, locking eyes with the sleepy ones that watched him. "Y' nerd someone from th' looks o' it t' take care o' y' fer awhile....'m willin' t' help y'.."

Far Dorcha Oh sweet bliss. To feel the pain killer working its way up his arm and to the rest of his body until he felt almost nothing at all was a godsend. He didn't know what he was to do about pain in the coming days but this was a lovely head start.

Roth. What a beautiful savior he was. How in keeping with the saintly image Far Dorcha had of him. Giving help so freely... the only trouble was he didn't know how to accept that sort of kindness. He shook his head titedly. "I can't repay you..."

Roth O'Connell ‎"No' a need t' repay." he answered, eyes soft for a moment as numbness ate away at Far's features until Roth noticed him slacken as numbness won. A brief sigh left him as he watched the other fall into the medicated bliss that medicine gave someone. Tenderly he released the hand he had been holding to take back into a gentle search of the other's body. He watched the elegant face of Far for a moment as his fingers poked an probed at different spots, noting where lumps were and where might a nasty bruise might lay. His task took him down to Far's hips, having moved his hands under the covers so as to not disturb the other's rest. He could feel the worse lumps there and they seemed to trail around to Far's rear, but Roth strayed from being that invasive. The trail of surely marred skin gave Roth a tiny hint as to what might have happened to put the other in this state, along with a question he would pose to the other in due time. His suspicions were not based solely on the swollen bits of Far that he had found, but also on the odd flow of people that came from. Far's small home daily. He had a feeling he knew exactly what Far was up to and how he earned his coin.

Far Dorcha Far did not awake until the next midday. And how he wished he hadn't. With consciousness came the pain and he groaned pitiously. His eyes ramed the room searching for perhaps another gift syringe when his gaze fell on Roth, napping in the armchair sitting in the corner of his bedroom. Panic and shame filled him as he recalled the evening before. Embarassment at having to look so weak and pitiable in front of this warrior of a man filled him with a new pain. So weak on every level in comparison to this humble man. He kept his grunts of ain as quiet as possible so as not to wake him. He looked as if he hadn't left Far's side. And Far found himself fretting over him in what he knew to be a rather motherly way. Had he showered at lest? Eaten? He hoped the other wasn't missing a day's pay on his account. He wouldn't be able to repay him for a while. Far Dorcha recalled the other's words from the night before. 'No need'. So selfless. So kind. How he aspired to be like him. He didn't know how long he lay there watching the other as he slept. How long before his bladder started trying to call attention to his needs. He just lay there and watched for as long as God allowed him this perfection of peace.

Roth O'Connell Roth couldn't recall how soon he awoke in Far's room. A stiffness in his neck had stirred him as had the gentle chirping of birds in the tree next to the bedroom window. His dark brown eyes opened slowly, wary of the light leaking in between the curtains. It took him a moment longer to shift his gaze from the empty bed to around the room. Confusion struck at first as he couldn't recall why he would be in Far Dorcha's room, but the events of last night fell back into his mind like sticks tumbling into a basket. Roth arose in a rush as he worried for where Far was, the other had looked like hell last night and gods forbid shouldn't be up. "Far? Far where are you?" He called, feet making rather loud thumps as he moved from the room in search of the other. There was a chance whoever had done that to Far might've come back. Then what? Could he be dead? Hurt even more so and unable to call for help? What?

Far Dorcha After a while of lying there and staring at his handsome neighbor, Far could stand it no more. He was filthy, bruised, and hurt. He was helpless for the most part, sure, but he could help at least one of those things. So as quietly, carefully and most of all slowly as he could manage he got himself out of bed. He hissed in pain quietly, feeling like one large open wound. The only time in which he moved quickly was in getting from the bed to the nearest wall. And then slowly again he moved, using the wall for support as he made his way to the bathroom to draw a bath for himself, wincing all the while because pain radiated down his entire back and buttocks.

After he put the stopper in the tub and ran the scalding hot water with jasmine infused bath soaps, he began the ardorous task of stripping, something that shouldn't have been so hard but for that blood had dried and caked his clothing to his skin in some places. He bit the inside of his cheek to keep from crying out too loudly and waking Roth. When his ruined garments were pooled at his feet he got a good look at himself in the full body mirror he kept in the bathroom. He looked horrid. He ran his hands over the various cuts and discolored skin that littered his body. Disgusting. He was foolish for being smitten with someone like Roth. What honorable man would love someone who looked like this? This crime that had been committed against his body....it was favor in disguise. It revealed his true self. Ugly. Beaten. Low. Not worthy. Of course he had been debased in such a way. It was his chosen lot as a common whore. He was nothing. Not even a man.   His hand slid away and he turned from the mirror, no longer able to face the truth that was now firmly in mind. He turned off the water and climbed not the hot water that seared his wounds and warmed his cold bones. The jasmine soap burned him but he welcomed it. He washed the grime and blood away, scrubbed at his skin as if scrubbing the man's touch from his pores until his skin was red an raw. After he sat there for a while. He had no measure of time to tell how long. Only that the water became cold and after a while the suds were all but evaporated. And then Roth was calling for him, worry painted clearly in his voice. "I'm in the bath," he called out, not too loudly.

Roth O'Connell The response was caught by his ears and Roth turned in that direction. He took a few steps forward in the direction of the bathroom and hesitated a tad before he gripped the knob and pushed the door open. The large man poked his head into the fragrant room and gazed about. It was a rather feminine room if he must be honest, but it in a way fitted Far Dorcha. Roth's eyes scanned the room throughly before settling upon the bare shoulders and back of the elegant man's head. Dark raven black hair that lacked that glossy look that must make even the crows jealous. "Y' ok?" he asked, a sinple question really.

Roth moved into the room, slow and big like he was. He didn't shut the door as he entered and merely made his way forward towards the other. The sight of bloodied clothes caught his eyes and made him frown. "Wha' happened t' yer clothes?" he began to ask before bringing his eyes over the other's form and saw the bruises and cuts upon his chest. "Wha' happened t' y'?". His tone had an edge of demanding, but it also was soft enough to seem concerned. Roth crouched beside the other, daring not to look upon the other's naked form and merely focused upon that slightly bruised yet lovely face.

Far Dorcha Far closed his eyes as Roth entered the bathroom. He knew what Roth would ask, and he knew he could not lie looking him in the eye. And he badly needed to lie. Far Dorcha leaned back against the tub, arms rested atop the brim as if he were the most relaxed creature in the world despite being in cold water and aching all over. He made to look as if resting as he spoke, more of a reason not to deign opening his eyes for Roth. "I fell down the stairs. Rather clumsy of me..."

Roth O'Connell There was a moment's pause as Roth took in the words spoken and tried to dechiper them. "Yer lyin'." he said, reaching a hand out carefully to touch Far's shoulder with the barest of touches. "Stairs wouldn' hur' y' like this. Who hur' y'?" he asked, crouching at the edge of the tub. His hand settled on that slender shoulder, noting how it was cold to his touch and made him want to gently rub his hand over the skin to at least warm it up. "Who hur' y' like this?"

Far Dorcha Far jumped at the touch, not having expected it as he didn't see it coming. The warmth in that big hand was so soothing, eh wanted to curl into it, curl into Roth's arms and let him enfold him in his magnificent warmth and cleanliness. But he remained still, and internally felt somewhat soothed at the gentleness of the touch and outright care Roth displayed for him. He resisted the shiver that threatened to run through his body. It would only hurt and give away how cold he was. He didn't want to appear weaker than he already was. "I feel down the stairs with scissors. Anything beyond that is unimportant."

Roth O'Connell ‎"Stop lyin'." he said, voice quivering with hints of unhappiness. It wasn't anger. No. It was just a sound of hurt, upsettnes at the fact that the other was lying. He could hear it in the way Far Dorcha spoke. It was mumbled, brushing, not at all the way someone would speak if they were speaking the truth. Carefully Roth stood and came around so that he was facing Far Dorcha directly. He leaned over the tub and eyed Far. Those dark eyes of his scanned over the pale form before him, everything exposed to his eye for the bubbles and steam had disappated with time. Bruises covered every inch of his skin. Moreso towards his waistline and vitals. Cuts riddled the nasty purple bruises like hairline fractures would riddle a injured bone. "Please jus' teel me th' truth, Far. I wouldn' ask if I didn' care."

Far Dorcha He shouldn't have opened his eyes, knew it for fact. But as soon as he felt Roth's gaze on him his eyes automatically opened to greet the mahogany pair boring into him. Concern. Anger. Frustration. And something more he couldn't quite pinpoint. Finally, he gave in. Far might have steeled himself from a negative reaction normally, or more probably would have been able to pass off a more believable lie. But he was tired. So very bone tired and mentally exhausted. He reclined his head back and kept his gaze level with Roth's as he answered. "It was a client. And before you insist, I will /not/ reveal his name. He is very powerful and well connected. I am a lowlife whore whom he could squish like a bug in an instant. He would not hesitate to kill me or yourself if I told. So leave it be. It's better this way." He was quiet for a few moments as he waited for the reaction he so dreaded. He was sad to lose the only person he considered something like a friend, but it had been inevitable from the start...

Roth O'Connell There was a stretch of silence that Roth wasn't sure how to break. He pursed his lips together in a thin line and let his brows knit together so deeply that it was nearly comical if not it were a serious expression upon the man's face. "I see." was all he said. He straightened up in posture, no longer leaning upon the end of the tub. Roth moved with his heavy slowness, leaving Far Dorcha for a moment only to fetch a towel to which he held open for the other to step into. "Y' need t' get ou' o' th' tub an' back in bed before y' catch a cold." he mumbled, seemingly letting the words that Far admitted to him disapate. Everyone had their way of making a living. Hell, Roth use to kill people for his money. Mercenary work that did no discriminate as long as the coin was good and constant. Everyone had their ways. It was alright.

Far Dorcha The silence made Far cringe and want to shrink in on himself. All manner of horrid thoughts were going through his mind as to what Roth must think of him now. Surely he would leave him to tend to his own wounds now. Each heavy footstep walking away made Far's stomach shrink into nothingness. Needless to say, when Roth returned with a towel he was dumbstruck. The command to come out only made him sink further into the cold tub, unsure about this turn of events. He gazed up at Roth's face, impassive at first clance, but deeper in the eyes there was a compassionate sort of understanding. And that glimpse is what propelled Far to his feet even though his body protested the sudden movement and increase in coldness. He trembled with it as he stepped from the tub and was wraped in the towel like a child. He was too in awe of his curious neighbor to be his usual confident self. Too vulnerable. And in pain. He shivered and trembled the whole way back to his bedroom, slow shuffle as it as. As he finally reached his bed he sat down heavily on it with relief. He was quiet a few moments longer and tightened his grip on the towel around himself, hugging it tighter. "Thank you."

Roth O'Connell ‎"Y' welcome." He replied, finding himself a place to perch upon in the form of a wooden chair which he dragged over to Far's bedside. His gaze stayed upon Far's form and more importantly his face. Their eyes met a few times, always seemed to be Far who let his gaze flit away when the minutes ticked away. Though Roth was sure there was an instance where they both departed their staring contest at the same time. "Y' need t' lay down. Be good on yer backside." He said, voice firm in the conviction of nursing the other back to health. "Res' would be good t'..lots o' res'."

Far Dorcha Their eyes were skirting around each other due to the awkward circumstances, and in an absurd way it helped to ease Far Dorcha's shame to be acting so silly with another. He nodded at the others firm suggestions. "I will rest. I don't think I could stop it if I wanted to." He grew quiet and let his eyes drift off again, making no move at all to dress or rest. "Could you...brush my hair?" It was a matter of vanity for him, to be certain, his long black and silken hair. But it also served to soothe his nerves almost as well as meditation. He didn't think he could achieve it himself without causing more harm than good.

Arjun Cem

  It was a show like any other night. Arjun came on with flowing silvery robes that shinned bright like moonbeams while an glitter of beads fell down from shoulder length redwood brown hair. The sharp contrast of olive colored skin and silver robes that flowed like liquid silver was beautiful. Coupled with the flowing dance that was Arjun's performance it was like watching one of the gods dance in merith. It was a stunning show that drew many folks in to The Dawnstar to spend a few hours out of their day to watch The Peacock perform.

Tonight, Arjun performed as usual. He spun and twirled across the stage. His movements were as fluid as water and as graceful as a swan in flight. A stunning beauty. Though a performance was never complete without the bell chim perfect sound of Arjun's singing. He paused in his dance to clasp his hands and let loose a melody that was just heart gripping. The kohl paint that circled his eyes, along with the silver paint on his lips caught the light of the room and made Arjun seem far more feminine than even some of the women in the room. It was a performance for the record books and sure to make the patrons gracious with their gold.

Chrysander Timoleon

  It had been some months since he'd begun fancying himself in love with the lithe performer affectionately known as The Peacock. Stage name or not, it was apparent the young man prided himself on his looks. Probably how he garnered the title. He'd been rather low and downhearted, dragging himself to the Dawnstar because he'd already paid for tickets in advance to see the show featuring a renowned town favorite, The Peacock. His fiance had been dying to see it. Rather, his ex-fiance. Those tickets weren't cheap and so he decided not to put them to waste. He took a friend along despite his low spirits, and he chose to be rather a good asset. Kept the drinks flowing, cajoled him into rolling a few dice before the performance started.

But when Arjun came onto that stage he was undone. His south was soothed by that divine voice, the ease and grace of his movements. He was spellbound. And so he returned. First once a month and gradually once a week. The show didn't vary much, only changing every three weeks or so, but he never tired of the routine. The exotic young man always made each time unique without changing a thing.

And as The Peacock drifted out all tan and silver, shimmering like quicksilver and movements just as fluid, he was as thoroughly mesmerized as the first night. For every turn and sway, Chrysander imagined himself up there with him dancing as if they were the sun and the moon. He felt like it. Like they were in the fast space and he was forever chasing the beauty across the skies but never destined to meet. He was fine with it. Really. So long as Chrys could have a small bit of him, even if it was shared with others, he was satisfied.

And then the beautiful creature sang and is heart wept along with the sound. Never would he outwardly shed a tear but his heart swelled along with each note. As Arjun took his bow and left the stage, he told himself he was satisfied. He sat for a few moments before rising and making his way out when a rather stunning man caught his eye. He seemed to be smiling at him, but he looked around just to be sure. It turned out the elegant man was the Dawnstar's owner, Far Dorcha. Rather infamous beyond his property but Chrysander was too polite to comment on it. His manners served him well.

Far Dorcha commented on his frequent patronage and the blonde could only duck his head to hide a light flush at having been caught with what could only be likened to a school boy crush. The lithe lam flashed what seemed to be a sympathetic smile before ushering him to a lounge area, somehow without explaining why he was to be there, only saying something about tea before gliding off. He wasn't to be left in the dark for long though. The vision of his dreams came through the double doors, seeming to stop abruptly upon seeing him. As much as he wanted to be a gentleman of sorts and introduce himself, words were stuck in his throat. He cleared it. Once. Twice. Tried again. "H-how do you do?"

Arjun Cem

  To be said, Arjun had retired for a moment to rest in his dressing room, his body bonelessly spread across the loveseat while his eyes were set close in a serene gesture. Though rest was not to be had for he heard the wooden door creak open and the soft padding of slippered feet before the door closed once more. Arjun opened one eye to gaze upon the elegant and dark beauty of Far Dorcha who seemed to be all smiles this night. Of course Arjun assumed it to be the performance and thought that Far must have made a pretty amount of gold this night, but alas he was mistaken for he was ushered to follow the other to another room.

It took a few moments for Arjun to follow, suddenly suspicious at whatever was going on, but trusting enough of Far to follow along. It was when he was shooed into a lounge room that it all hit home. There sat a rather handsome man with the sunniest blonde hair and softed blue eyes that Arjun had ever laid his upon. Though he had to blink and glance back to the now closed door before shifting into the room. It didn't hit him that the blonde was nervous till he spoke, which drew a sweet smile on the exotic man's face. "No need to sound so nervous, love. I promise you I don't bite." he said, voice trilling like a songbird's. "But I'm quite fine, how do you do?"

Arjun laid himself into an open seat across from the other and rested one leg over the other while his hands lay clasped in his lap. "By the way...please call me Arjun, no need to use my stage name here...especially if Far brought you here."

Chrysander Timoleon

  Gods above, the way the other spoke, it was as if he was perpetually singing. Such a sweet, teasing voice. Though the tone was probably more at his expense. The smile on the other's face only backed up that theory and he tried to keep from feeling embarrassed. "I'm well," he mumbled awkwardly and rubbed at his hair in a nervous gesture. Why was this happening to him? "Ah, my apologies. My name is Chrysander," he stood and moved before Arjun, holding out his hand and silently thanked the gods when the beautiful performer offered his own, and gave the tanned skin the barest of kisses. "Chrysander Timoleon. You can call me Chrys.. or whatever you like. It's a pleasure to finally meet you." Belatedly, he realized his choice of words and dropped the hand in favor of returning to his seat and putting some distance between them. For all that he had longed to meet and speak with the Peacock, he was fumbling something fierce with the opportunity.

He was saved when Far Dorcha returned with a tea tray and set it on the table before them before taking a seat next to him. He could have kissed the beautiful man for returning so opportunely. "I brought some tea, you must be parched Arjun." Of course, Arjun knew it wasn't by chance at all by Far's secret smile as he poured the tea for the three of them. "A splendid performance tonight, don't you agree Chrysander?"

Slanted eyes turned his way and Chrys could only nod in agreement as he swallowed his tea, feeling suddenly like he was a mouse locked in a room with two very hungry, cunning cats. "Oh yes, one of the best."

Far Dorcha smirked into his cup, as if he had won a small victory.He set it aside before speaking again. "You seem to have a very informed opinion. Have you seen many others?"

And he realized he was indeed trapped. He eyed the doors that stood just beyond Far Dorcha and wondered just how impolite it would be to bolt right now. For the sake of keeping the elegant furniture clean he set his cup down as well. "N-no I wouldn't say very many..." Of course, he knew he was a terrible liar. He always looked away when he told one.

"Oh come, dear, don't be shy. Not many can resist the lure of my Dawnstar." It seemed a bit absurd for an elegant beauty like Far to be so excited, but it was clear he was like a kid in a candy shop. He was onto something good. Though what Chrys's role in the whole thing was, he had no idea. "I suppose I've seen a fair many," he confessed, defeat causing his shoulders to droop.

"Excellent." Far Dorcha clasped his hands together, and turned to Arjun. "I can leave it to you to entertain him a short while, can I not? I have business to attend to, and we must be sure to honor our loyal patrons." He flashed Arjun a sly wink unseen by poor Chrysander before once again taking his leave. "I am quite pleased to have your business, Chrysander. Do enjoy yourself~."

Arjun Cem

  Arjun could only blink and give a nod when Far addressed him. His mind was turning those gears as he watched Far Dorcha with those elegantly painted hazel eyes. He wasn't stupid, so he knew there was a game to which Far was getting at, though the entirety was unknown to him till Far stood and announced he had errands to run. It was then that Arjun realized all those secretive yet knowing looks the other had flashed him. It was a set up.

"Ah I will...do not worry Far." he said, voice honey smooth and that light airy tone. His hands were clasped in his lap, body poised in a mannered way as he watched his rather meddlesome boss leave. It was only when the door clicked closed di he turn to look at Chrys. He was rather handsome if he were honest. Hair a rich golden blonde that looked like liquid sunlight while those sharp blue eyes of his which instantly reminded Arjun of a clear sky stared back at him. Handsome indeed. "I'm sorry if Far Dorcha has left you bewildered...he likes to meddle." Arjun said, smiling a small smile at Chrys.

The lethal dancer scooted a bit closer on the plush sofa until he was only a scant few inches from the blonde. "Would you like to see me dance? I am suppose to entertain you afterall~ Or do you prefer singing? I could sing for you if you like that over dancing.."

Chrysander Timoleon

  Between the two rather cunning men, Chrys felt rather overwhelmed and lost. As if he were slow and dimwitted. One minute he was being bombarded with revealing questions, the next he was left alone in a room with the subject of his admiration. It was quite a different feeling when there wasn't a room full of people to share in it. And to have the other be so well informed of just how big an admirer he was. If ever he felt embarrassment, it might be now as Arjun Cem flashed a rather knowing smile his way.

He smiled shyly back, resisting the urge to run a hand through his hair and give away his nerves. Chrysander's eyes had wandered to the floor to escape the intense ones belonging to the exotic man, only to look up when he noticed Arjun coming closer. Very close actually. So close he found himself scooting away by reflex. It felt slightly like sacrilege to be this close to something he all but worshiped. At Arjun's suggestion he almost jumped at he chance for a private performance. But he was conscious of the fact that Arjun had just come performed for many people a short while ago. He could not demand such a thing. "Ah..um.no no it's alright. Please don't trouble yourself. You've performed enough. I'm sure you wanted to rest and I've uhh...intruded. My apologies." Oh hell, he was making an ass of himself.

Arjun Cem

  There was a small pause as Chrysander's words registered in his mind. Those thinly arched brows knitted together as it sunk in that the other had turned him down for a private show. Most did not and all but jumped at the chance to see him perform. So naturally a sense of rejection held his soul. Arjun's eyes downcasted to gaze at his feet which peeked out from under the light flow of his outfit. He wiggled his toes once, if only to distract himself. "Well...if that is how you want it to be..then I shall have to respect that, yes?"

Those hazel eyes returned to that lightly goldened face. They studied Chrys with a quick intensity before a sense of formality fell into place and he straightened up in his seat. Far would want him to entertain Chrsyander in whatever fashion that came to mind. His natural talents were turned down, so what did that leave him with? "Do you um wish for more to drink...or uh...do you wish to indulge in a more carnal entertainment since you deem it not right for me to sing or dance for you..?"

Chrysander Timoleon

  Chrys's brows furrowed a bit at Arjuns reaction to what he had thought was considerateness. Arjun seemed to take it as a personal insult having rejected a private show. HE was about to apologize when Arjun's words threw him off track entirely and he choked on his spit. /What?/ He wasn't sure whether to be embarrassed or ashamed that the lovely dancer assumed that's what was wanted of him. He stood quickly and shook his head. "No no no. Please, you misunderstand me. I only wanted...," he faltered and cleared his throat before trying again. "I wanted a better platform in which to get to know you better....that's all. If you're not interested. I understand. It's just that ever since I first saw you perform I wanted to get to know you..."

After he was met with a rather awkward silence Chrys laughed and shook his head. "God, I'm some kind of idiot huh? Sorry to have troubled you. I'l be on my way." He nodded and put on the hat that he'd been wrenching between his hands the entire meeting and turned to leave.

Arjun Cem

  There was only that silence for a moment, well it felt that way to Arjun at least. The dancer quickly reached out to grab Chrys at the crook of the elbow and pulled him back with surprising strength. He leveled the young male a stern, well as stern as he could make it, look that only came off as a cross between pouty and upset. "If that is all, you only had to say." he said, tenderly leading Chrys back to where he had sat previously. They both came to sit upon the plush sofa, Arjun leaning for a moment upon Chrys as he brought his legs up to tuck under his lethal body. A little smile graced his olive face, making him seem once more that ever happy and beautiful dancer those on stage knew him. "I must apologize for my reaction and such...lewd suggestion. I just got all the wrong signals." he said, releasing Chrys' arm now to lean back against the sofa and letting out a little dramatic sigh. "This is quite embarrassing! But good way to start off a friendship, hm?"

There was a friendliness to Arjun now, one that was quite infectious. He had that effect upon people. Not as an unnatural talent, though some would argue differently, but as his natural charm that made him an excellent performer. "We should start again, shouldn't we? Fill in our little mistakes."

Chrysander Timoleon

 Chrys was surprised to be detained, but let himself be guided back to his seat. He relaxed, feeling a bit less like a rabbit thrown to the wolves. He nodded and leaned back in his seat as he faced Arjun. "I'm sorry if I gave them. I do think you're beautiful but I don't want you for..... /that/." Fuck he felt like a child for not even being able to say it. He turned a bit more to face Arjun, quiet for a moment before holding out his hand with an impish smile that was his trademark. "Alright then. My name is Chrysander Timoleon, how do you do? I am a rather big fan of yours, if you don't mind me saying."

Arjun Cem

 Arjun took Chrys' hand gently in his and laid the barest of kisses upon the palm of his hand before casting the other a sweet bashful look. "Pleasure Chrys. I am Arjun Cem. Dancer, singer, and overall entertainer from th Eastern lands." He said, voice calm and kind. Arjun pulled back and released Chrys' hand in a fluid motion. Those hazel eyes sparked with a friendly light and that smile still sat upon his feminine features. "You are far too sweet on me, but please tell me about yourself. I hardly know a thing when you know so much about me." He said, leaning close to tap Chrys on the nose.

Chrysander Timoleon

 Chrys raised a brow at the request, and twitched his nose at the light tap. He couldn't tell if it was flirty or condescending, but he let it pass. "I know your work and how you present yourself. I don't call that much. But alright. Not much to tell about me. I've lived in Port Gamble all my life, naturally I've always wanted to serve it as best I can. Protect it. I work in the City Guard, have been for a handful of years. That's about it really," he laughed somewhat embarrassed at how simple his life must seem in comparison to the vivacious dancer. "Boring innit?"

Arjun Cem

 ‎"A guard? You're a guard? Well! That's quite the job! Which district do you work? I'd ask if you were morning, evening, or night, but you can't be evening..for you are at my shows, yes? Maybe morning or night?" He was chattering away with a new life. Eyes bright and curious, seeking hard for knowledge from the other about well him. "I hardly find being a guard boring! You do a lot..it's respectful." He said, giving a littke bob of his head in the form of an appraising nod. "Do you enjoy working that line of work?"

Chrysander Timoleon

  The sudden intensity of the other's curiosity gave Chrys a sudden bout of shyness. But he managed to keep together, clear his throat and try to explain things in proper order. "Well, see, I like to work when I can take it. Nights is my main shift. And on the night watch instead of the one district it's two or three per squad. At night my watch takes up the docks, cheapside, and the markets. If I so happen to pick up the Morning Watch I work solely in the markets. Plenty of theives, pick-pockets and cheats there. But a fair bit of entertainment too. I like people. So 's good work I s'pose." It was only when he'd ran out of words did he realize he'd rambled it all out, so passionate was he about what he did. The pleasure he took in his job, as droll as it seemed to talk about. He enjoyed it. "Sorry 'bout that. The words ran away with me." He laughed and scratched at his cheek nervously.

Arjun Cem

 He shook his head rapidly in response and grasped the blonde's hand tighter and gave it a squeeze. "No! That was lovely..I love to hear about others having a passion for their work..it makes me feel less strange to have a passion to dance and sing upon the stage." He said, reaching a hand up to tuck a stray strand of his wig hair. "You work quite a bit though...how do you find the energy to come here as often as..Far hinted at?" His question was innocently posed, but Arjun was admitedly curious to know how many exactly of his shows that Chrys attended. Far's hinting and questioning of the guard himself had perked the exotic boy's curiousity.

Chrysander Timoleon

William Sharp Failure. Absolute failure. That's what it felt like this time. Rejected once more by that minx of a redhead. She wanted nothing to do with him. Made it apparent with a cross glare with those vivid green eyes and how tight her lips pressed together, cheeks flushing a slight pink as she rejected him once more. It stung this time. Honestly stung like a slap to the face. Will wasn't afraid to admit that it stung. He was confident in himself to say that a rejection from a lass that he had been pursing for such a long time hurt. It was that bitter reject that had forced the young pirate captain to strangle on into the Dawn Star with a sour puss of a look. He paid no mind to the gambling tables, paid no mind to the healthy flow of drinks which on any other occassion would have drawn his attention faster than a naked lass dancing on one of the gambling tables. Instead he found his feet dragging him to a rather ornate room with a lavious decor of items that would make even the King jealous. He was greeted by a rather beautiful man. Feminine in beauty, but still evidently male. Will only blinked his eyes, barely registering what was being spoken by those perfect lips, only allowing himself to be dragged off to a chair. The beautiful man, who he now realized was the gambling house's owner was Far Dorcha, had slipped away as soon as he sat down. He blinked his green eyes around the room, already noting like the pirate he was the things that he rather wished to have on his ship. Though those thoughts fluttered away when Far Dorcha came back all smiles and beautiful looks.

Far Dorcha When William Sharp aimlessly wandered into his office, Far Dorcha had been doing the accounts for his beloved Dawnstar, papers littered every corner of his desk in piles of disarray, and golden rimmed reading spectacles on his face. Something his vanity rather loathed anyone seeing. He looked up at Will over his spectacles, hiding his annoyance because Will was a wonderful coin dropping regular. So he smiled as he greeted the pirate. "Captain William Sharp, how wonderful to see you so unannounced," he teased. Only Will didn't so much as acknowledge him, Far took a better look at the young man and his rather forlorn appearance. It made him rise and abandon his book keeping for now and guide Will into the chair opposite his desk and quietly close the double doors to his office. He came back to Will with his most charming smile, trying to coax him from whatever misery was taunting him inside of that head of his. Far leaned back against the edge of his desk before Will, arms lightly crossed and an expectant. "If my gambling house can't cheer, you nor my bar bring you some comfort, what can I do for you, young William?"

William Jonathan Sharp Will's eyes met Far's with a look akin of seriousness touched ever so slightly with that wolfish humor that he seemed to radiate rather easily. "Well mis'er Far....I was hopin' for maybe a bed friend. Th' best ye see. Bein' scorned by a lovely lady leaves a bloke open t' th' world an' just one nigh' t' lose himself would do a load o' good." he said, voice carrying a rolling cant that was the manner with which he spoke. It dipped and raised while pitching here and jumping there. Again that amusement weedled into his tone, making him out to be less of a sulking man than he truely was. "I figured comin' t' ye directly would suit tha' desire. Tell me I wasn' mistaken mi'ser Far Dorcha."

Far Dorcha Far inclined his head and turned to wander around his desk and take his seat. "Of course you've come to the right place. I offer the best of everything money can buy, and a few things it shouldn't. Do you have a preference? Male, female, hermaphrodite? And preference as to looks?" A thoughtful expression took hold of his face as he paused. "I have the best there is in the land, but he is male. Beautiful. Blonde. Lithe. Even the women find themselves jealous of his beauty. But, that depends on how open you are. If you prefer females I can find you one who looks something like the one who scorned you I'm sure."

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"I'm open t' anythin'. Take yer pick. I'm a pirate afterall an' bein' completely taken wi' just women doesn' always satisfy." he remarked, voice candid and offhanded as he threw the other man that sly as can be look. Though it slipped away quickly enough to be replaced with that bored stare. Those pretty eyes of his found purchase to focus elsewhere. Far Dorcha had free reign on his choice, just anything to sooth his battered heart and sooth his desires. Scorned by a woman as pretty and fair as Mali put a real damper on him. An extreme damper. "I just wan' someone who can make me forge' everythin'."

Far Dorcha It had occured to him that a pirate with a male dominated crew might have to resort to other means, but it was bad practice to assume. This affirmation of his passing thoughts would serve them both well. Jamie was not only the best at what he did, he was generous with paying Far a finders fee; safety was worth the price, even if Far was willing to take less of a cut because of personal attachment, James would not have it. And wiht the rise in taxes, it was a help.

Far Dorcha nodded and tapped his finger against his desk as he mulled over the details and the bit of Jamie's schedule he kew offhand. "When would you like to see him?"

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"Tonigh' if ye can spare him." He said, bringing one leg up to rest on top of the other. His hands came to rest upon his stomach where he let his fingers drum away upon the thin material of his shirt. "But I am in por' fer a few days."

Far Dorcha Far's eyes became distant as he pondered what Jamie might take as precident and priority. He rather thought Will might make for a decent repeat customer for Jamie. He drummed his fingers over his desk before smirking. "Very well. If you can content yourself with my house for a while, I will inform him of his evening's plans and arrange a room for you both. I will fetch you when he's ready. Does this suit?"

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"It will suit." He remarked, standing up now. He stuffed his hands into his pockets of his trousers, gaze still distant. "I will be down in th' gamblin' hall...or if yer Peacock is dancin'?" He questioned, turning his gaze upon Far Dorcha.

Far Dorcha Far nodded and smiled, pleased at the turn of events. "The Peacock is performing in an hour's half. You may watch him, complimentary of the house, in one of the private balconies where you will have a splendid view of our beloved Peacock. I will have him meet with you there. Now all there is now is payment, up front if you please." Far Dorcha donned his golden reading spectacles as he opened is ledger and began filling out the information.

William Jonathan Sharp A charmed laugh left him as the discussion fell to money instantly. He shook his head and fished in the side of his long coat for the sack of gold he kept. He located it easily enough and tossed the sack to Far Dorcha with a smirk. "Will tha' satisfy ye?" He asked, raising a brow as if daring the pretty man to reject his money.

Far Dorcha Far Dorcha was indeed pleased with the transaction, and he looked forward to the many future ones that were likely to follow. "It shall satisfy." He took up the coin purse and weighed the contents in his hand. It was larger than the sum he usually charged, and wondered if Will even cared. He eyed him through the spectacles briefly before coming to a decision and gestured toward the door. "Be on your way. You wouldn't want to miss the performance. I will send Gabriel along shortly."

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"Aye aye, me pleasure dealer~" he teased, coming to a stand in one fluid motion before sauntering over to the door. A flash of a wink was what he gave Far before he slipped out of the office entirely and made his slow lope of a swagfering walk to where his high end performance was to begin and where he would be meeting quite a lovely pleasuring entertainer. It wasn't hard finding his box seat, a guard was even there to escort him to his spot. A big hulking man that Will would bet good coin could take on anyone in the gambling hall in a fair dual. Once the guard left Will alone, the pirate captian propped his feet up on the railing, hands folding upon his thinly clothed stomach while his eyes trained upon the performance below him.

Gabriel Loveguard As soon as Far Dorcha had settled the books he made his way to Jamie's in-house apartments. He knocked politely, unsure if his notorious gem had taken a customer all on his own, but it wasn't likely. "Come in, Far," came the voice from inside.

The proprietor of The Dawnstar smiled as he let himself in and spied Jamie at his vanity, primping himself for the evening in nothing but a loose fitting robe. "How is it you know who knocks for you each time?"   Jamie smiled and met Far's gaze in the mirror as he applied golden eyeliner. "Your knock. It's very distinct. As is Roth's and Arjun's, though he knocks less often than he barges right in. I'm starting to think he's trying to catch me at work," he joked, both of them knowing full well Arjun's disapproval. "You've work for me, Far Dorcha?" He was perhaps a bit hasty in his inquiry, having read the cool pride Far often exuded from his mind when he jad a job to present, but he never much worried whether Far Dorcha would figure out his talents.

Far nodded and stepped closer behind Jamie, picking up a brush to comb through the soft blonde hair, still slightly damp from washing. "I do. Captain Willaim Sharp. A regular customer for the gambling house, but never often of my companions. He is feeling rather low in spirits, having been slighted by a woman and is seeking to occupy his time and mind with better company. I have no doubt you can accomplish this. I suspect if you do well enough, he might see fit to endorse regular visits."

Jamie stopped in the application of his eyeliner and glanced up at Far's reflection. "You know I am not much fond of regulars. Not after the last one."

Far Dorcha winced but continued combing. "This time is different. You will see it when you meet him. I know you are good at reading people. It was my fault entirely that the last one got out of hand. And I, greedy. This will go differently, you have my word. I will not fail you this time, James."

Jamie turned in his seat and looked up at Far Dorcha, reading deep blue of his remorse and guilt at the mention of past events, and the golden color of his sincerity. He took up Far's hand and gave it a kiss. "Tonight, call me Gabriel."

-----   Gabriel was all too aware of the eyes that followed him toward the Peackock's den. It made him preen as much as it made him apprehensive. But there were enough guards about that he was confident his travels would go undisturbed. Tonight he wore colors of blue and gold. Perhaps it was out of envy for Arjun and his title. Perhaps it was because tonight his thoughts were as scattered and vast as the stars in the sky. His trousers were loose fitted and airy, deep blue with gold embellishments, his shirt as pale as the moon and made of the same flowy fabric of his pants that stopped short of his abdomen, the over-robe he wore that held the same pattern as his trousers. And on his feet, gold flaked sandals that showed off his finely petticured feet.

He glided up the stairs to the balcony where his patron of the night waited for him and dropped to his seat silent as an assassin. So quiet was he and so enraptured in the performance was his client that it was some minutes before he was noticed. It drew a smile to his lips.

William Jonathan Sharp The show that was given to him was captivating to say the least. William was keen on saying that it was probably one of the best he'd had. The erotic and utterly mesmerizing way The Peacock moved across the stage made Will's nerves pitch and roll like a ship upon a stormy sea. It was a wonder to watch and made Will curious about The Peacock.

Perhaps it was not a well known fact, but Will's connections drifted far. Arjun Cem or better known, The Peacock, was an old friend. They'd met long ago when Will was just a simple hooligan looking to round up a band of worthy sailors to raid the seas and become the best darn band of pirates the world had ever seen. Arjun had been starting out at the Dawn Star or so he had heard, and Will had been wandering the streets on his lonesome. It was chance that they had bumped into each other on Arjun's way to the tiny flat he lived in nearly a whole district away from the Dawn Star. They had literally bumped into each other and Will being a bit of a gentleman offered his assistance. He could not recall, but one thing led to another and Arjun and him had gained a snip of carnal knowledge of each other.

A coy smirk graced him at the memories of that carnal experience. It had been quite a night and Arjun was as flexible and talented as any creature he had the pleasure of bedding. A softsound behind him made him perk up from his thoughts and round his attention upon his sudden guest. A brow shot up as he spoke to the other, "Should I mak' a guess tha' ye are Far Dorcha's prize worker?" It was instantly that Will went to work sizing the other up. His green-blue eyes danced across that feminine form and up to those knowing eyes and back down along that body. A thrill struck him as he approved of Far's choice for him. Already the scorn of earlier was nearly gone. "How do ye do, lovely?"

Gabriel Loveguard Gabriel crossed his legs and perched his chin on hand. "I am gainfully employed by him, yes." And now that the other was facing him, he also took to sizing the other up physically and mentally. He'd detected a hint of lust when the Captain was admiring Arjun, and that was to be expected. Were they not like family, Jamie might have tried to bed the exotic man himself.

His eyes roamed, as his mind picked up bits of information all it's own. This Captain was quite a catch. Handsome, strong and proud with simple tastes, though an eye for things that sparkle. There was a hint of one-sided love, he detected. But it was overshadowed by the sudden delight at seeing such a new creature, and as he entertained their future endeavors.

"I do well," he answered with a sly smirk. "I'm not sure Far Dorcha gave my name. They call me Gabriel Loveguard. A pleasure to meet you." He extended his hand for the other to grasp as their eyes flirted in the dark.

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"Gabriel Loveguard?" He echoed back, letting out a soft hum as he rolled the name around upon his tongue. "Is yer love as guarded as it seems?" He joked, playing off the other's rather curious last name. "But I do believe ye've been privvy t' me name, aye?"

William's demeanor was playful at best and giving small jests at the other to see what lay under that pretty exterior. A bloke could be curious, it was not a sin or crime in his book. Curiousity opened a mindful of doors that could only be accessed with that one key. Will took Gabriel's hand in his own and brought it up to his lips to kiss each of his knuckles while never taking his gaze from those thoughtfully keen ones that observes him. "Now excuse me manners..but I am a wee bit o' a greenhorn wen it comes t' activities such as this. Wha' shall we be doin' handsome Gabriel?" He purred. Oh how he played such a damnable seductive man when he wanted. It was no surprise that he was known to many in a intimate manner. His sultry ways earned him plenty of attention. "Do we slip righ' t' th' main course...or do we simply enjoy th' company o' one ano'her for a wee bit?" As he spoke his hand which still touched Gabriel's ran down along his arm and danced away to prop his head up. He wore that catty and mischievous smile of his as he eyeballed the other.

Gabriel Loveguard Gabriel echoed Will's charming smirk at the jab at his tag name "Quite. But I remain rather affectionate," he joked quietly and inched closer. "Captain William Sharp, yes. Do you have a preference as to which I call you by?"

The Captain was a playful, curious, flirtatious creature. He sought to poke at him for any holes or chinks in his facade. And right off it made Jamie feel like he was a novelty. The idea irked him a bit but he let that feeling slide away as the charming Captain kissed his hand. William was new to his world, and he was going to be an obliging host and show him the ropes. He didn't answer Will's question right off; instead he let his eyes slide over to the stage where Arjun was dancing as fluidly as water over a stone. He let his eyes go half lidded at the gentle touch of his arm before he other's hands fell away. He watched the beautiful dancer on stage as he spoke, "We're called companions for a reason. Sex is not all we offer. But it is a fantastic highlight," he added with a smile and a sidelong glance before shifting his gaze back to the show. "We can enjoy the rest of the lovely Peacock's performance, perhaps have dinner and enjoy all this fine establishment has to offer. Or...," he trailed off as his found it's way to the Captain's thigh and skated up across it. "Or we can get right to the meat of it." The last bit of his statement was ironically punctuated by a silky touch turned firm grab over Will's groin before it fell away, leaving Will with only Jamie's cerulean blue eyes on him. "The choice, Captain, is yours."

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"I think I may loch t' watch more. It's been awhile since I las' saw Arjun dance. Still as lovely as always..swear th' bloke don' age." He remarked, voice candid and focused. Though all attention focused on the show was firmly wrestled away at the ballsy grab that the other gave to his crotch. A bark of laughter left him and his entire attention shifted from his old friend to the other quite quickly. "Am I no' allowed t' have me sex now..th'n go for some fun in th' gamblin' halls an' ask ye for some dinner an' th'n go for ano'her round o' sex?" He inquired, pulling on a smile that was quite clearly a facade of innocence.

Gabriel Loveguard Jamie was thrown by the fact that the other seemed familiar with Arjun. It had him curious and nearly derailed him, but at the mention of Will's playful idea of the night ahead recaptured his focus. "You are most certainly allowed. However, I think once you've gotten into my bed, I will have a hard time prying you from it. Speaking from past experiences, of course," he teased with a smirk. There seemed to be a lot of flashing of the teeth passing between the two. On Will's part it was probably more because he felt like a naughty schoolboy. On Jamie's...well... he was amused by this client.

William Jonathan Sharp A brow rose at the assumption he had meant a bed when he requested sex now before gambling and food. "Now I don' mean t' be gettin' ahead o' myself, bu' I don' recall sayin' anythin' 'bout a bed. Can we no' have a wee bit o' fun here?" He asked, blinking a bit and perhaps putting on that manly pout of his. "And I am quite fond o' earnin' me some gold an' th' appeal o' food pulls even me away from glorious sex, Gabriel." He added with a wink. He crossed one leg over the other and leaned back in his seat, lounging like a king.

Gabriel Loveguard Jamie had to wonder at that pout; wondered how many women had dropped their garters and panty-hose for such a face. And he found he still had it in him to resist and play the game. "I wasn't quite sure whether you wanted your original source of entertainment muddled by my talents, seeing as you seem to be familiar with Arjun. You must know he would not approve of such antics." Though, mentioning it in such a way only further convinced Jamie he ought to do it.

He stood in one fluid motion and politely nudged Will's legs apart so that he could set his knee on the other's seat and lean close to steal a soft, testing kiss. The first kiss was always quite wonderful, he always got a secondhand high off of his clients initial reaction to any form of physical touch or bit of intimacy.

Will's lust spiked and rushed forth like golden flames over his mind that left him feeling warm and giddy all at once. But he kept collected as he moved his lips along the Captain's jaw to his ear, where he breathed hotly against it. "I would not mind offering such distractions." His statement punctuated by a teasing twirl of his tongue to the ear before nipping on the lobe and drawing back to peer at Will's face. As ever, there was still a hint of a smile.

William Jonathan Sharp The first kiss truly was a thrill and made Will rumble in satisfaction. His hands found their way to Gabriel's hips, pulling him quite snuggly upon his lap. "Arjun won't mind or could possibly know.." he remarked, letting out an appreciative sound at. The playful mouth tricks the other subjected him to made him shiver in delight. "I would quite loch y' form o' distraction..though y' mus' hear tha' from all y' clients." He murmured, sliding his hands up Gabriel's back to cup the back of his neck and pull him down for a firm kiss. He was invasive with his tongue, pressing between Gabriel's plump lips to explore that cavern within. Once the other was fully participating, Will slide his hands back down to Gabriel's ass to which he squeezed.

Gabriel Loveguard Their second kiss nearly as electric as the first, but with a more sultry undertone laden with intent. Gabriel eagerly parted his lips for such a lazy kiss, unhurried and patient as their tongues slid against each other in greeting. He ran his hands up and down Will's chest, lightly grazing his finely manicured nails along the fabric of his shirt before sliding his hand between their bodies as they slowly gyrated against each other. He slid his hand over the slight bulge in Will's pants, gradually getting firmer with his petting before he unfastened them and dove his hand inside to grasp the erection waiting for him. He hummed in pleasure at the feel of it, the girth and length pleasing. And he ached to satisfy himself with it. "You want me?," he asked, teasing and breathy between kisses as he asked the obvious.

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"No.." he answered, smirking as the other gave him a baffled look at such an opposite answer than what he was suppose to give. "I /need/ y'." He accented this statement with a thrust from his hips into Gabriel's hand, urging him to keep touching him in such a pleasing way. Will kept his hands moving across Gabriel's back before settling on his hips and sitting up a bit to lean the other back till the other was touching the railing of their private box seat. He kept those lovely legs straddling his waist, but had coaxed the other to release his cock in favor of gripping the railing. Will leaned forward to lap at the other's exposed stomach. Tongue swirled around his belly button teasingly while his gaze focused on the outline of Gabriel's face. He trailed kisses up that lethal frame while pulling the other upright one more to kiss at those sweet lips. His hands were back to wandering and this time they sought to pull away the courtesan's top to expose more of that lovely skin without exposing the treat that lay down south. "What do you want me to do to you?" He purred, looking up at the other, smirk still in place.

Gabriel Loveguard He was lost to the attention being lavished on him, being somewhat self-centered he adored being adored. He was practically purring at the attention. And then Will asked that question and it stopped all the tracks in his mind. He was thrown because he didn't often run into that question. Not seriously like Will was asking anyway. It had always been just a bid for him to talk dirty. He let Will's emotions guide him as well as he could to the answers Will most likely wanted to here. He licked his lips and nudged his hips against Will's. "Several things that are publicly illegal here in the port," he intoned coyly as he adjusted his grip on the bar beneath him. "Kiss me, everywhere. Most especially on my cock. And when I'm close... I want you to stop and fuck me senseless. Or... let me ride your cock. I am partial to either. But as you said, we're to be going more than one round tonight," he added with a smirk before pulling the handsome Captain's lips down for a hasty kiss.

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"Really wha' y' wan'?" He asked, murmuring his words against the other's lips as he ran his hands across Gabriel's body. One hand skimming down over the small bulge present in his loose fitted pants. Will trailed his lips down along Gabriel's neck and nibbled at his collarbone and along his adam's apple. A quiet hum sounded from him as he delighted himself with nibbling along Gabriel's body. "Think you can be quiet here? Don't want to interrupt the lovely Arjun's performance~" he said, smirking against his flesh.

Gabriel Loveguard A hummed laugh of amusement left him at the question, and a bit from being ticklish as Will saw fit to lavish kisses over his form. He squirmed in place, knowing the other wouldn't mind and might even find amusement knowing he'd tickled him. "I accept the challenge, though are you skilled enough to make it a challenge," he teased as he bucked up into the hand at his groin.

William Jonathan Sharp ‎"I'm skilled in all manner o' naugh'y good fun, Mister Loveguard." He joked. A small bit of patience was peeling away from him as he found the other to be a sultry tease. He rumbled a low groan before pulling the other up and standing with him in his arms. He smirked as surprise danced in those lovely blue eyes. Will couldn't resist planting a sweet kiss to those plump and probably very fuckable lips before he turned to force the other to sit in the chair he had previously been occupying. Will dropped to his knees and continued lavishing kisses to Gabriel's neck and torso as his hands set to work to free the other of those pants.

Gabriel Loveguard It was hard to surprise Jamie, there were seldom few who could manage it. And it nearly gave Jamie a heart attack to realize Will was one of those people. He was a great broadcaster of emotion, to be sure, but he was impulsive. Something Gabriel should have pegged right off and been on guard for. He should have taken the lead right on. Impulsive people made Gabriel uneasy. It was hard to know how to act when their moods and ideas shifted at a moments notice. As was the case as he found himself lifted up. He gasped but it was eaten up by the kiss, and he half wondered if Arjun could see them from the stage, half-naked and on the job. It would infuriate him. And somehow that helped to ground Jamie.

He found his calm when he was dropped in the chair and found it ironic that Will was hinting at something he had been planning to do to the other when he was sitting in the very same chair. This sort of scenario wasn't entirely unfamiliar to him. But the intention to worship someone as good looking as himself was something usually discovered up front. And for Will this wasn't some deviant fantasy. He wanted to give Gabriel pleasure. /That/ was a new experience. He lifted his backside to help aid Will in ridding him of his pants as he licked his lips and watched in helpless fascination as Will kissed, sucked and licked his way down his body. On his knees. He could die at the mere idea of having such a handsome man desire him and eager to lavish him with pleasure. He sought to ground himself in this unfamiliar scenario, and used his inane humor and banter as a sort of crutch. "Suck much cock in your line of work," he asked, curious and teasing all at once as he ran his fingers through the dark brown locks.

I spent a whole book terrified that Niall and Irial wouldn't get their happy ever after after all, but in the end, everyone got their man.