Dragon Age Brainrot

There he lay, mouth open and limbs splayed across the duvet. Mortimer Rutledge snored away and was blissfully unaware of Revvy. Well, no matter how hard she tried to fight it, she was now awake for the day. She climbed out of bed and stretched with a groan. That was the heaviest she had slept in a while. He hasn’t changed. She tossed a shoe at him without any force, just curious if it would stir him any. If anything, the shoe made him snore quieter out of adapting to being hit by objects in his sleep. She rolled her eyes as she made her way over to her tub. She stripped bare before striding into the waist-deep warm water. She hummed in contentment as she sank into the water.

Mortimer let one rip against the bed, then turned over for comfort. "Ugh," she grumbled under her breath before grabbing a washcloth, soaking it in the water and then throwing it at Mortimer, hitting him in the face with a wet plop. Something wet plopped soggily on his face, and it was enough to jolt him awake into a slight panic. “Aye! Whoah- what!” He panicked his way to the floor with a loud thud following. She couldn't help but laugh at his reaction, but when he hit the ground with a thud, she was slightly concerned. "You alright?" She called out to him from where she lounged in the tub. “Just peachy.” He grumbled sleepily. Mortimer stayed where he landed for a few minutes before getting up. “Why did you do that?” He asked as he undressed himself to get in with her. Might as well since she woke him.

"You farted in my bed," she sassed, almost indignantly, as she spread her arms across the back of the tub. She studied him curiously for a moment. "Planning to join me?" She teased with a knowing smirk. He groaned as he lowered into the water opposite of Rev. “So you heave a wet rag on my face? Right.” He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes as a yawn overtook him. "Well, at least you get to enjoy the water while it's still warm," she told him lightheartedly. "I didn't expect you to fall out of my bed, though. You sure you're alright?" There was care and concern in her voice for him. She did feel bad for startling him.

He dismissed her concern with a hand wave and nod. “Probably bruised, but it’s one among more to come.” Mortimer didn’t bother to open his eyes, and the water was of no help due to the warmth. "Hey," she said as she splashed him. "Don't fall asleep in the water. Can't have you drowning before we get to go on at least one date," she taunted playfully. He groaned in protest of being splashed so early. “No, not sleeping, but I am sleepy.” She chuckled as she slid over to him. "Sorry for interrupting your beauty rest. Would a kiss make it better?" His head shook no. “No, it’d make it great,” he said tiredly.

She reached up and caressed his cheek, turning his face towards her and giving him a tender kiss. "Better?" He melted in the kiss, wrapping an arm around her shoulders as they kissed. She smiled into the kiss and leaned closer to him, resisting the urge to climb into his lap once again. Instead, she traced her free hand across his chest. He hummed into the kiss and pulled her closer to him, caressing her cheek with his other hand. He broke the kiss when air became an issue, but his forehead rested against hers. “How’d you sleep?” She couldn't help the whimper she made as he broke the kiss. "Best sleep I've had in a long time, actually. What about you?"

His brow twitched as she moaned. “Deepest sleep I’ve had. My bed isn’t the comfiest.” He turned his head to yawn. His morning breath is kicking, so how she is kissing him, Mort hasn’t a clue. “Have ya got toothpaste? I brought my toothbrush.” "You're welcome to stay here more often if you'd like?" She offered with a sweet smile, caressing his cheek again. "I do; it's by the sink over there," she told him, gesturing to the small sink nearby, accompanied by a small wall shelf. “Thank you, Revvy. It will be considered by the council!” He said tiredly. He missed her gesturing to the small sink due to his eyes falling shut again. “That’s nice,” he mumbled.

"Oh, the council? Is that code for your other girlfriend?" She teased with a hearty laugh. "Sorry, I couldn't help myself," she said with a bright smile, leaning against him. “My twelve other personalities. I am not a man who is sought after,” he said while rubbing his eyes. Revasan pressing her weight on him aids in lulling him to sleep again. She can tell he's still sleepy and threatening to doze off. "I beg to differ. You're sought after by me," she whispered to him before placing a soft kiss against his neck. A low chuckle rumbles in his chest. “That means I’m special then.” His voice is low, and a hum falls from him. “What say you, Revvy, are you sought after by a boyfriend?”

She chuckles with him, finally caving in and straddling his lap. "What boyfriend?" she asked with a laugh. "Haven't had one of those in quite some time. Position is vacant, by the way." Mortimer did not budge as she straddled his lap. If this is her attempt to wake him up, she is doing poorly. “Mhm, vacant, boyfriend…” he drifted to sleep with his head resting against the edge. His feet are planted, and his hands are gripping the rope around the tub. Seriously?! She ducked her head and kissed along his neck, one hand drifting to ghost against his lower abdomen teasingly. "You do realize that's an invitation, right?"

Oh bollocks, Morty is falling asleep. With the strength of last night's dinner, Mort forces his over-tired eyes open. His vision is about as blurry as a paint smudge. “Incantations?” His brow furrowed at her nonsense. “I’m sorry, Rev, I am winded.” The bruises he accumulated are aching, and the cut along his back is burning, but he continues on. “Will you help a tired man out with his hair? I can wash the rest and help you if needed.” She wanted to give him grief about it but decided she would help him out instead. "Lean back into the water; I'll help you." She coaxed him towards her so she could wash his hair. She noticed the bruising on his body and the scratch on his back. "Creators, Morty, what happened to you?" Her voice was clearly concerned, and she had to resist the urge to touch the mark, not wanting to make it worse or touch somewhere that would be sensitive

Morty took the opportunity to soap up a washcloth and utilize his energy washing her back. “Oh, pay no mind to it; it’s a normal thing for me, I'm used to it,” he muttered. “Have ya any cleansing alcohol? I gotta clean it before it gets infected.” "That doesn't make me not concerned, Mortimer," she quipped back, using his government name as she cleaned the wound with soap and water. "I have some cleansing wash we can use, but it'll sting. I'm worried about you. Seriously, how did you get this wound?" Mortimer sighs deeply as he sits up with closed eyes. This wasn’t particularly how he pictured the next morning to be. “Barely dodged an attack yesterday and was sort of attacked earlier in the day. People are real froggy lately!” Morty attempted to joke, but he didn’t have the energy.

"You poor thing," she cooed. She was genuinely worried for him. "Come, let's get you dressed and back in bed. You should rest," she insisted as she ran a hand through his hair. The pair washed up together. Morty helped wash her back, and she washed his and cleaned the nasty cut on his back. It stung enough that curses in some languages were heard. “Are we done yet?” He chuckled. "Yes, but I'm bandaging it too," she insisted as they climbed out of the tub and dried off. She went to fetch her supplies, making quick work of bandaging the cut, clearly well-practiced in this sort of thing. "Now we're done."

He waits patiently as she bandages his wound with a light but firm touch. Her fingers feel nice on his skin. Like cocoa butter meeting the driest skin it’s ever come in contact with- refreshing. Morty smiled gratefully at her before going to collapse in her bed. Comfort is not a luxury he can afford in his boathouse. There’s not much he can afford as it is. “Thank you, Revvy. You’re a bangin’ woman.” She chuckled warmly at his compliment. "Damn right I am." She gave him a kiss before he walked to the bed. She sat beside where he collapsed and traced her hand up and down his arm adoringly. "Don't you forget it," she teased playfully.

“Am I naked? The bed is comfier than before.” He muttered into the pillow. He looped his fingers with the hand caressing his arm. "How do you-" she cut herself off. Clearly, he wasn't operating at full capacity. No need to kick him while he was down. "Yes, you are naked," she confirmed with a chuckle. “How do I what, Revvy?” He grumbled and turned his head to face her. His eyes hurt, but he forced them open for the chance at seeing her beautiful big eyes. “Bollocks, stay home. Outside is not… is not…” he drifted off to sleep before he finished his sentence.

She chuckled as he fell back to sleep so easily. She got a blanket and covered him up. Once that was done, she wrapped herself in her robe and grabbed a book, perching on the nearby sofa to do some reading while he slept. While Revasan read, Mort was trapped in a dream he believes is a nightmare due to how calm and gentle it is, in contrast to the dreams he usually experiences. This dream includes Revasan rescuing him from the pit he’s grown to live in. Light in the darkness kind of thing. She noticed him twitching and talking in his sleep and sat beside him on the bed. "Morty? You alright?" She asked as she gently shook him. She could tell he was having a nightmare.

“Wait- Too…no.” He giggled a little. His dream shifted where Revasan is a talking coin purse trying to persuade Morty into backflipping into a pool. Odd dreamer. When she heard the giggle, she was relieved and couldn't help but chuckle. She tussled his hair and gently patted his arm, shaking her head. Morty is a serial grabber and puller. If you’re in his reach and he clings on to you, you will become the designated teddy bear. Sorry Revasan, you’ve been chosen. She made a surprised 'umph' as he pulled her to him and struggled against his grip. "Morty," she told him, trying to free herself.

“Bacon bits…turkey…” he mumbles. Food has infiltrated the sky base in search of the secret syrup recipe only Mortimer knows. “Cheese…” "Mortimer," she told him sternly, still struggling to get away. "Let me go!" Mort loosens his hold on Revvy and turns over on his back only to snore away. She lightly smacked his ass when he turned over and made her way back to her chair to read for a few more hours before trying to wake him again. His dreams stayed positive for the most part. None shifted into terrors or frights or horrors. Once it got close to lunchtime, she decided to try and wake him again. "Morty," she said in a sing-songy voice as she took a seat next to him and gave him a gentle shake. "You should wake up."

Revvy’s voice lulled him awake with its sing-songy tone. An eye opened, seeing Revvy smiling at him; her smile widened as he woke. “G’day, Revvy. What’s the time?” He grumbled. "It's almost 11. Seemed like you really needed the rest. Besides, rest will help heal up that wound on your back." She smiled lovingly at him and caressed his arm. “How long have I slept?” He pushed himself up, stretching his aching body as best he could with the settled pain. He was covered but still naked. “Did you eat?” "It's been about four hours since I first woke you up. Luckily for you, I don't usually eat breakfast. Though, we are coming up on lunch, so you should probably get dressed," she told him with a smile.

“Okay, and our date is in a few hours as well.” He sat for a bit to collect his ducks that quacked about the space. Not literal ducks; he’s not insane. Yet. “May you pass me my undies, please? Leave the rest where they are.” He gave Rev a tired smile and small kiss to the cheek before swinging his legs over the edge of the bed. "Hmm, I don't know, I rather enjoy the view right now," she teased with a chuckle, making a show of giving him a once-over and biting her bottom lip as she did so. She still handed him his underwear, but she would eagerly jump his bones right now. “Perhaps after dinner we can eat each other off the bone?” He quipped curiously, thanking her before sliding his underwear on, and standing up to properly stretch. “Quite the best sleep I’ve had in a while.”

She hummed in approval at the notion. "That certainly sounds like a fun time," she teased with a wink as she watched him get dressed, biting her bottom lip, remembering the other times they had been intimate together. The last item to be put on was shoes, which would be on when they left. Other than those, his outfit is complete for sitting around with Revvy or going out and enjoying the day until their date. “Thank you for letting me sleep over.” She smiled subconsciously as she admired him. "Of course, Mort. Do... do you not sleep well usually?" She recognized the signs of exhaustion and sleep deprivation all too well. She had been there herself too many times.

“Huh?” He turned his head. “Uh, on and off. Think I’ve got amnesia or whatever it is when you can’t sleep properly.” He gently dismissed it as he sat next to her. “Do you sleep well?” His eyes met hers. She adjusted uncomfortably at the question. "No, not really. Not most nights at least. Only time I sleep through the night is when my body is just too exhausted to do anything else. The nightmares are bad too, especially since Arlathan." Mort supposes so. Between his shitty situation and her and Arlathan, they both should go on rampages, but what good would it do? “Must have amnesia or whatever like I do.” "You mean insomnia? Yeah, probably. It's worst when I'm stressed, or if I'm stuck on something like hunting a target. Those days, it can come in handy."

“Insomnia, mhm, that. It does come in handy when I need to defend myself. Not like I know what I’m doing, but I’m still living, I suppose.” "Well, I'm thankful for that at least," she said with a chuckle. "It helps when I'm out in the forest too. Last critter that got the jump on me ended up as dinner." “Last person that got the jump on me gave me this cut.” He motioned to his back. “I think I’m moving someplace safer than Minrathous. Nowhere is truly safe, but it’ll be better than having to fend for myself.” He ran a hand down his exhaust-worn face. He stood in the same spot for ten minutes now, Revvy behind him on the bed, most likely waiting for him to join her. “We have a date tonight on the plus side.”

"Well, you're welcome to crash here whenever you want to. It was nice not sleeping alone for once," she admitted with a small chuckle. "And we do have a date, which I'm rather looking forward to." “I’ll take you up on that until I find a safer space to live. I’ve been told I’m quite cozy to sleep with.” He smirked while finally sitting next to her. “There’s still a day between then and now, Revvy. What shall we do?” "Oh, I can think of a few ideas," she purred, mischief written across her face as she leaned in close to him and walked her fingers up his arm.

“Does it rhyme with ducking?” He said plainly. His eyes bore into hers. "It can if you want it to," she teased with a warm chuckle, giving his arm a squeeze. "No pressure though. I understand if you're in too much pain because of your back." “Best to wait until after our date if that’s fine.” Mort’s libido is low at the moment. Sleeping together now is a disappointment in the making. "Okay," she told him with a smile before leaning over and giving him a soft kiss on the cheek. "Do you have any suggestions for how to kill the time?" He returned the kiss three times. Her beautiful bright eyes kept him entranced and wondering. “We can go for a walk along the pier, lift a boat and go boating; surely there’s something to do.”

"A walk along the pier does sound nice. Get a view of the water, watch the ships come in. I like that. Did you want to go now?" She ran a hand up and down his arm. “Are you dressed for the day, Revvy? We can go now.” He sweetly smiled at her, caressing her cheek with his lips. She looked down at the robe she was still wearing and chuckled. "Not exactly, but it won't take me long to get dressed." She tussled his hair as she stood and made her way over to her wardrobe, fishing out a dress, a light corset, and her favorite sandals. She shed her robe and started getting dressed, humming softly to herself.

Revasan led the pair to the room she was renting. "Here we are, my humble abode," she said with a chuckle as she gestured to the space. Mort ambled into the large space and was surprised to see just how lived-in it is. A lived-in space is always a beautiful sight to see. “Quite humble and spacious and lived in!” Mort said through his admiration. "Thank you. I didn't think I would like living in the city, but this place has made it a lot more bearable. I still miss the forest though," she moved further into the space as she spoke.

“Why’d you move to the city? City living's alright, enough to do.” He leaned against her desk. “How long have you been in the city?” "Long story short, the Veil Jumpers thought the Shadows could make use of my hunting abilities to track down this blood mage who is a major player for the Venatori." She crossed her arms across her chest and sat on the edge of her bed. "There is plenty to do, but it's so loud. I'm just not used to it." Ah, she handles dangerous cases given by the Shadow Dragons. This one is a blood mage, and Mort would be lying if he said he wasn’t concerned. He is a messy human who fights in bars while intoxicated. Revasan can overpower him if she wished. “Elf hearing, so you must be sensitive to sounds.”

She nodded. "Yeah, it sucks," she said with a chuckle as she leaned back on her hands. "Why are you still over there?" She asked curiously, her ears twitching to match as her eyes shimmered in the light. “We are having a lovely chat about your dangerous job of hunting blood mages for the Shadow Dragons.” He said while transitioning to the bed to sit next to her. “Are you close to finding this mage?” She lay back on her bed, her hair forming a halo around her head as she did so. "I wanted to lie back and didn't wanna crane my neck," she told him with a chuckle, playfully poking his side. “And now you’re lying down, and I ask again. Are you close to finding this mage?” He poked her nose.

"No," she grumbled with a huff. "All I've done is narrow down a few places they definitely aren't hiding out." She folded her hands across her stomach as she looked up at him. "Taking a little break from the hunt. Hoping to come back with fresh eyes after a few days." “Don’t fret, your fresh bug eyes will be able to spot him two days away,” he lightly joked, chuckling to himself. “You have beautiful eyes; surely they will falter when they see you.” "I do not have bug eyes," she told him lightheartedly, swatting at him playfully. "And thanks, hopefully I find them before they realize they're being hunted." “You have big bright eyes! You saw me coming earlier!” He laughed as he leaned against his fist next to her. “What have you so far? Or is that confidential?”

She turned on her side, mirroring his posture. "I just know they aren't in the upper city or the catacombs. Other than that, I don't have much." She sighed softly, not quite in defeat but definitely a little downtrodden. “What are their patterns? Every blood mage has a pattern. Hell, everyone has a pattern; read between the lines.” He said plainly. "What's mine?" She asked with a laugh before answering him. "I'm sure they do; I just don't know what it is just yet." “I’ve not watched you enough to know.” His brow furrowed as he said it. He didn’t mean it like that- “We’ve not known each other long enough.” He covered. “Why are you looking so close?”

"Fair enough," she said with a chuckle, using her free hand to trail up and down his arm, admiring his muscles. "Long story short, the Shadows think they might be connected to what happened in Arlathan." Her voice got soft and sad at the memory. So many had died, and more were injured. “Arlathan? What happened?” He asked softly as he laced her fingers with his, hoping to soothe her. Morty hasn’t been in Thedas long, but he has been here long enough to get the basic scope of Venatori and other pesky bastards. "Blood mages kidnapped a bunch of elves and killed a lot of them. Not all of them, thankfully, but too many," she explained quietly as she teared up at the memory. She was there when the sacrifices began and was forced to wait for reinforcements before she could act for fear of them capturing her as well.

His face morphed into sadness at the new news. “I’m so very sorry, Rev. I really am. Was-” his heart ached out of fear from what he was going to ask. “Was it just elves?” He didn’t want to look at her ears. He knew she was an elf. "As far as I know, yeah. I'm grateful more weren't lost, but it still hurts my heart to think about it, you know?" She told him, her ears drooping as she looked away from him. Words alluded him. Nothing- no words, phrase, anything came to his mind to ease her mind. For once, he had no witty remark. All he could do was pull her in for a hug with his free arm. “I’m sorry.” He whispered into her ear.

She nuzzled her face against his neck, feeling oddly vulnerable with him right now. She couldn't help the tears that fell down her cheeks as he held her. She wrapped her arms around him and held him close in return. "Thank you," she whispered to him in a voice he hadn't heard before. No bravado, no flirtation, just fully vulnerable Rev, full of emotions she didn't quite know what to do with. He gently laid them down to wrap both arms around her, to secure her against him. This is a new side of Rev he’s not experienced before, and it hurts his heart that she’s like this. His hands held her as if she were to disappear. Morty wouldn’t let that happen. “I have you, Rev, let it out.”

She sobbed against him as he held her, her facade and armor crumbling as she became just a scared woman who lost too many people. After a few minutes, her crying began to dissipate as she clung to him for safety, her hands wrapped tightly in his shirt. Mort pulled her tight against him the harder she sobbed. He chose to stay quiet during her moment, afraid to breathe incorrectly if it meant she pulled away. She’s lost many people; he can’t lose her. She clung tighter to him after a few minutes as her cries dissipated. He is here. She sniffles and nuzzles her face against his broad chest. She was worried this would send him running for the hills. She thought no one would want her once they saw her vulnerability, especially men. She had been burned before, and the last thing she wanted was for that to happen with Morty.

“Have you calmed?” He whispered. He gently rocked them back and forth as the sound of sniffles filled the room, deepening the crack in his heart. Mortimer rarely feels bad for those he’s met, seeing how he’s a thief. Where he comes from, it’s one for themselves. She lifted her head and wiped her eyes before looking up at him. "Sorry about that, not normally a crier," she tried to write it off with a chuckle, trying to bury her feelings once more. “Aye, please don’t apologize, miss; it’s natural. Allow it.” He kissed the top of her head as an effort to coax her from shielding her emotions. "I know, but it just doesn't feel that way sometimes," she admitted sheepishly. Because of her using her emotions to manipulate and gaslight her, but he doesn't need to know that. No need to drop even more drama on him right now.

“Well, it is that way this time, I can assure you,” he whispered, not yet letting her go. She has him in her clutches, which tells him she’s not ready, only when she is ready. "Thank you," she told him quietly, letting go of his shirt, smoothing her hands over the fabric, feeling his muscles underneath. The image of their romp at the Swan flashed through her mind, and she couldn't help but smile. He released her as her grip loosened on him, sure to feel his muscles. Her smile caught his eye. “What has you smiling?” "Hmm?" She asked as his question snapped her back to reality. “You’re smiling, why?”

She chuckled warmly and shook her head. The faintest blush could be seen forming in her cheeks, almost masked by her complexion. "Oh, just a memory is all." She wasn't technically lying. He rested on his palm again as they fully separated. Her eyes were bloodshot, but her smile encapsulated her beauty all in one. His fingers wiped stray tears from her eyes. “A good memory from the looks of it.” She leaned into his touch and smiled at him, her eyes meeting his. "A very good memory. Excellent company too." She ran her hand down his arm as she spoke. “Who’s the lucky bugga?” He teased.

"Oh, just some blond guy with a nice smile who just happens to have a thing for floral coin purses," she teased back with a playful smirk. “I think I know this guy! Yeah, I seen him ‘round! Cheap!” He ragged on about himself, laughing at his own insult. She laughed and gave his shoulder a playful shove. "Well, I haven't seen anything to make me agree with that. Handsome, funny, good company, all of those I can firmly say describe you quite well." “We’re talking about me?” Mort is stunned into surprise, clutching his pearls delicately. “You think me handsome?” "You wouldn't be here now if I didn't," she told him gently, moving her hand to caress his cheek, running through his facial hair.

“Yeah…” he answered, wrapping his arm around her waist innocently. Never mind her mucking up his beard at all. Surely she has a small comb he can use to smooth it down. “Are you feeling better?” She smiled adoringly at him. "I am. Thank you. Sorry for ... All of that," she said with a soft chuckle, twirling her hand in the air as she spoke. "You know, this angle is surprisingly flattering for you," she teased with a laugh, playing with his facial hair some more. He smiled adoringly at her, slight annoyance masked behind the dismissal of her own feelings. “No, don’t apologize.” There’s a gentleness in his tone. “Many of your friends and people who have ears like yours were wrongly killed. You are allowed to cry.” He assures her.

"Sorry, force of habit," she admitted quietly, twirling a strand of her hair, looking away. "I'm uhhh- not the best when it comes to emotions. It's a long story." “My ears work great if you wanna test them,” he admits with a small chuckle. "Haven't had the best experience with people actually listening to my emotions. Kind of got used to not expressing them because they'd be used against me." “I’m Mortimer, not people, and I understand. My ears are well tuned for when you wish to try.” He pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. The small, sweet gesture let her know he was being genuine. 

"It was horrible. Venatori... They sacrificed my people," her voice cracked. "They slaughtered a halla. No. That's not it. They brutalized it." His heart was crushed, but hers was shattered. He assumed their previous position of him tugging her to him tightly to comfort her as she spoke. Mortimer gently pressed her into the mattress so she felt fully held. She couldn't help but chuckle slightly as he held her closely. "Thank you," she whispered to him as she held him back, her head resting against his chest and his heartbeat helping hers stabilize. “My mum started this with me when my dad had another bad night,” he said in a quiet voice. Bad night was a nice way to put it. “Please continue if you’d like.”

"I can see why. It's oddly comforting," she mumbled against his chest with another soft chuckle. "There was... So much blood, Mort. I've never seen that much blood in one place. I can't tell you how many people were slaughtered, but it... It wasn't a small number.” “I owe her my life.” He mumbled into her hair. “I’m very sorry you witnessed that, and I’m sorry they’re no longer with us.” He ran his hands across her back. "Then I should thank her." She gave him a squeeze and pressed her face against his chest, half tempted to motorboat him to relieve the tension, but she knew he had a point. She needed to feel her feelings, even if that meant wanting to fall apart again. "Thank you, Mort. I can't tell you how much this means to me."

“Your breath is between my breasts; are you okay?” He tucked his chin to look at her before shrugging it off and placing his head back on hers. “It isn’t an issue. Holding it in isn’t healthy.” "Oh, I am exactly where I want to be, Morty," she told him with a teasing tone and a laugh. She gave one of his pecks a gentle bite, accentuating her point. "And thank you." He chuckled airily but was abruptly interrupted by a gasp. She bit him! “Oh! You’re welcome! Quite welcome!” She couldn't help but laugh when he gasped. "Sorry, couldn't help myself. You're very biteable in all of the best ways, especially when my head is right here," she told him with a chuckle, smirking as she placed a gentle kiss on his sternum

“Hey, hey, no distractions! We’re having an intimate moment with some sadness. No kissing my cowlicks!” He joked on the last part but very much meant the rest. She laughed warmly before pulling back and looking up at him. "We are. I wasn't trying to take away from that, just letting you know where my head is at. I do appreciate you being here for me. Thank you, truly. It means a lot, more than words can really say." She assured him as she cupped his cheeks with both of her hands. He pulled back as she did and looked at her as she spoke. A small smile graced his face, and he leaned into her touch. “Always know you have me in your corner, Rev.” He went back to rest on his palm.

Her expression softened. She didn't expect such care from him, especially given how long they had known each other. "Thank you, truly." She leaned in and placed a soft, sweet kiss against his lips. He melted into the kiss, kissing back with the same sweetness. “You’re welcome.” She looked up at him with nothing but adoration in her eyes. "Did I tell you how much I missed you?" She asked softly, tracing her hands across his chest, tracing his muscles with her fingers as she subconsciously bit her lip. “No, but I’ve missed you.” Mortimer hasn’t had another to miss who isn’t his mother. He wound up in Thedas from another continent to escape the life he’d wound up locked into if he hadn’t left. If life over here is better, Morty will bring his mother.

She smiled warmly and rested her hands against his chest. "Aww, you did?" She asked playfully, batting her eyes dramatically. "I'm honored," she teased, leaning in dangerously close to him. “I did, yes. You’re quite an interesting woman.” He smiled as his free hand found purchase on her waist. “I’m honored, too!” His eyes locked onto hers as she leaned dangerously close to him. “Our noses are bound to shake hands if you move closer.” "Aww, shucks. At this rate, you'll make my ego grow out of control," she teased with a laugh, her accent coming out a little thicker as she did so. "And maybe I want that. You ever consider that, hmm?" She taunted before nuzzling her nose against his.

Did he hear a southern accent? “Well, little lady, my ego is surely up there and down yonder,” he mimicked her accent perfectly. “I’ve considered all of it! Definitely!” She narrowed her eyes at him. "You mocking my accent, Morty?" She accused lightheartedly, but there was definitely an underlying threat in her voice as she grabbed his collar and pulled. Her lips were now hovering just a breath away from his. She grabbed him by the collar and pulled him in, and his eyes widened from the swiftness. Morty did not see her hands move, nor did he feel them on him. “No, ma’am,” he answered honestly.

"Good," she told him with a catlike smirk before capturing his lips with hers with a hum, enjoying how he felt against her. She pulled back just enough to meet his gaze, smiling up at him. "Smart man knows when he's bested." He was being kissed; he kissed back, and he was gazing into her eyes by her own doing. “I cannot fight to save my life, so of course I do,” he says against her lips. "Well, we should remedy that one of these days. I could give you a crash course on hand-to-hand combat, or, if you'd prefer, how to fight dirty," she smirked at him as she said that, lightly biting the corner of her lip. “I already fight dirty, but lessons are appreciated,” he said softly. Morty missed the lip bite because he stretched his man bones awake. “If you hunt, does that make you agile?”

She couldn't help but laugh. "Sweetheart, if I don't want to be heard, I will not be heard, even in the forest. I've been doing this for as long as I can remember." “I’m hiding my coin purse from now on!” He said firmly and playfully. “How long have you been doing this?” "Oh, honey, that won't keep it safe from me," she taunted with another laugh. "I've been a hunter since I could string a bow, sooooo 13? I think? It's been a long time," she admitted with a smile. "If you don't make too much noise, I could take you with me one of these days." “That is indeed a long time! As for me being stealthy, that isn’t possible. I’m as loud as two skeletons fucking on a tin roof. We will get caught, and it would be by accident.”

She laughed so hard she snorted at his response. "I have never heard that. Creators, that's hilarious!" She was barely able to speak through her laughter. “It wouldn’t be ideal to bring me on stealth missions now, would it?” He couldn’t help his own laughter joining hers. “If we’re just going in? Sure!” He is absolutely fried at the moment. "I see that! So if I need a brawler, I'll be sure to invite you. As I learned when we first met, you can take a punch," she teased, gently poking his cheekbone on the side where his black eye had been. “My best will be given; I cannot assure you a victory,” he teased, leaning into her touch, pulling her closer. “I can take several punches but dishing them is where I mess up.” His voice grew quieter.

"That's an easy fix. I'll get the hits, and you keep them from hitting me," she teased with a warm laugh, giving his bicep a squeeze. "I could see you packing a punch if needed, though." “I can do that, miss.” He gazed at her with an adoring look. He flexed under her touch. “To protect you, of course.” She lightly bit her lip as he flexed for her, giving his arm another squeeze. "I am curious what these muscles of yours can do," she teased with a smirk before leaning in and giving him a quick kiss. “Wheel sacks of food to my boathouse. Not fun but the sacks last months.” He is completely being Mortimer in this moment. She looked at him and furrowed her brow, doing her best not to let her mouth hang open. Was he being serious right now? He couldn't be that oblivious... could he? "You have a boathouse?"

Why is she looking at him like that? Did Morty say something wrong? Does his breath suddenly smell? Does he stink? “Yes, ma’am! Needed some fixin’ but I done it and now I own it. Bought it for one copper.” "Sounds interesting. Maybe you could show me one of these days?" She paused in thought. "You can swim, right?" Last thing she wanted was for him to fuck around and drown himself. Is she serious right now? His own brow furrowed, doing his best not to show blatant confusion. He wouldn’t own a boathouse if he didn’t; that’d be plenty stupid. “Sure, I can, and yes, I can swim. Can you?” 

She rolled her eyes and gently swatted him. "I grew up in the forest, yes I can swim," she sassed, her accent getting a little thicker as she did so. This was also when she realized he wasn't exactly catching the hints she'd been throwing at him. She shoved his shoulder to knock him onto his back and leaned over him. "I'm a little insulted you had to ask." She rolled her eyes and swatted him, and he chuckled in response. “My apologies, I only wanted to make sure,” he sassed back, quirking a brow at her thickened accent. He chose against mimicking it. Morty was curious as to what- oh! Revasan shoved him onto his back and leaned over him. “As I said, I wanted to make sure. Never know when you’ll have to dive for dinner!” He chuckled.

She smirked down at him, her hair falling down over her shoulders. "Mhmm, I'm sure you have," she drawled with a smirk, tracing a finger down his chest, barely resisting the urge to shove her face into his chest again. “Fish is delicious if it’s cooked right. Also, if a fish is on the surface, do not eat it.” He mustered up the straightest face he could. In his defense, it was dark, and he was really hungry after a long day of…stuff. He traced a finger down her spine, resisting the urge to gag at his own memory of that night with that one fish. It isn’t noticeable, thankfully. "I am quite aware," she taunted. She just shook her head with a chuckle. A small gasp escaped her as she felt his finger on her spine as she arched against him reflexively. She pressed her hand against his chest, tugging lightly at the buttons on his shirt, undoing the top two buttons. She admired his newly exposed chest, tracing a hand across it.

He shook his head with a chuckle as well. His pupils reacted to her gasp, which made him wish to hear more. His hand slipped under her shirt, and his finger repeated the action, going up her spine. “Should we do this after what transpired? I’m all for being friends with benefits as well, but are you certain?” The term 'friends with benefits' caught her attention. "Wait, you think we're just friends with benefits?" She asked in confusion. She would be hurt by it, but she was sure he was fucking with her. He couldn't be that oblivious, right? “We are friends before benefits, but yes. Are we not?” He is just as confused. The furthest he gets with most is the bed, and then it gets called quits. But that hasn’t seemed to be the case with Revasan, even though it could be that way. Is he not reading into it the way he should?

"Well, technically, we are, yeah, but .... " How best to say this... "You don't get the vibe that there might be more?" She paused before gesturing between them. "You know, between us?" “Oh! As in a relationship! Like proper going steady! I did not consider that…” he said as he sat up, gently sitting her up with him. “Do you see more between us?” "As in a relationship, yeah, and I do. I enjoy having you around," she admitted, blushing slightly. "You make me happy. I'm surprised you haven't picked up on that," she said with a chuckle, her multicolored eyes looking up at him through her lashes.

“Even though we barely know each other? You’ve an interest in me?” Mortimer hadn’t picked up on that until now. “You also make me happy, but- shouldn’t we…move slow?” He drawled. "Sweetheart, I'm not professing my love for you," she said with another chuckle. "I'm just saying I like spending time with you, and I'm interested if you are," she spoke softly, her voice gentle, hoping he felt the same way she did. “I understand that,” he chuckled with her. “I am interested, yes. Can we still move slow?” "As long as you tell me what you mean by slow, we certainly can." She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned against him with a charming smile.

“Not rushing this, us.” He wrapped an arm around her waist as his other held him up. "I can agree to that," she told him with a small chuckle as she ran a hand through his hair. "I don't want to rush us. I want us to just enjoy our time together." “Where do we start?” He asked, full interest on his mind. "Well, we start with a date. I want to dress nice for you. This," she gestured to the dress she was currently wearing, "Doesn't really count. It's something I'd wear any day. Though, if you like it, I can be persuaded to wear it more often," she teased with a smirk. "But I would like for us to go to dinner or something."

Mort considered the idea and was already on board when they met. He nodded to indicate he agreed and wished to follow through with their date, and possibly show her his place since she showed him hers. "I'd really like that, Rev. Do you have a preference? Allergies? I want to dress nice for you too." Mort has a soft smile on his face. Romance being prioritized is going to be a new thing for him, but Mort can trust Rev with his concerns about it in the future. "No preference, no allergies. I just want to go on a date with you." Her smile was warm, welcoming, and contagious. She locked eyes with him as she caressed his cheek with one of her hands, tracing her thumb across his cheekbone. "But I have to ask, does that mean you're putting the brakes on our physical relationship as well?" She asked curiously. She ached for him but didn't want to push if he wanted to slow that down as well.

“Okay! I’m clear too. When shall we go on this date and where?” He asked, meeting her gaze and smile. “No, it doesn’t, but I’d like to let it happen naturally and for it to not be the focus of our budding relationship.” He ran a hand through her hair. She leaned into his touch as he ran a hand through her hair. "I was thinking maybe tomorrow? I heard there are some good restaurants nearby, and I've been curious to try them. As for the other part, I can agree to that. I like the idea of just letting it happen naturally." She gave him a soft kiss and smiled as she pulled back. "I'll never get tired of that."

“Tomorrow works perfectly. Are we trying every bloody restaurant?” He chuckled, unserious with the question. Mort melted into the kiss, pressing into it before pulling back. “You have a pretty smile.” She laughed warmly. "No, not every restaurant. I figured we could go for dinner. Maybe lunch if you spend the night tonight, and thank you. You do too." She gently poked his cheek, her smile widening even more. A hand was placed upon his chest, and a thankful breath was blown out. “Oh bollocks, you had me worried for a moment. If I stay the night, I’ll need a change of clothes.” He gently said, returning the poke to her cheek.

She shook her head with another laugh. "I don't think either of us could afford that," she told him lightheartedly. "Would you like to go get the clothes and come back or go get them in the morning?" She asked curiously, not wanting him to leave but understanding the reasoning. “I steal to get by, so you’re not wrong!” He laughs. He pondered her question. He doesn’t like sleeping in the previous day's clothes, and his boathouse isn’t a far walk from her place. “I’ll do a quick pop out and come back. My place isn’t that far.” 

"Okay," she told him with a smile, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek. "Don't be gone too long," she said with a smile, playfully booping his nose. He captured her lips in a sweet kiss before hastily moving towards the exit. “I won’t.” He winked and then left. She lay down on her bed and waited patiently for him to get back. Things had taken an unexpected, but enjoyable turn. Half an hour had passed until Mort welcomed himself back inside with a change of clothes and four fish kebabs from Hal’s. “‘Ello, Rev, I’ve dinner for us!” He called out, seeing her lying down on the bed.

She sat up when she heard his voice. "Oooo, from Hal's?" She asked excitedly as she got to her feet and walked over to him. “Righty! Two for us both!” He handed her two, then munched on his. He ordered them extra crispy for both of them. "Yum! Thank you, Morty," she told him, genuinely excited for their meal. She started chowing down on her fish, humming happily. "Mmm, I don't know how Hal does it, but his fish is always perfect," she said between bites.

He gave a smile in response. “I don’t know either, but the crisp is spot on!” Mort directed them to the bed and set his clothes down next to him as he sat. She took a seat next to him as she continued eating her food, quickly finishing the first fish before moving on to the next. "Thanks for getting dinner for us," she told him with a smile, leaning over and bumping his shoulder with hers. “Righty, Rev. Is your fish crisped to perfection?” He bit his fish for emphasis, filling the room with crispy sounds. Mort laughed in glee as he returned the shoulder bump. “Hal never misses.” "Absolute perfection," she told him with a laugh of her own as she finished the second fish. "This was perfect. I was starving," she told him with a smile as she stood to get rid of the sticks the fish had been served on.

He finished his second fish after she finished hers. “Happy you’re eating,” he told her with a smile before getting up to throw his sticks away. “Now we’re both going to smell fishy.” He joked. "One thing you'll learn about me is I almost never say no to food," she said with a chuckle as she tossed the sticks in the waste bin. "Part of growing up in the forest, you never know when your next meal will be or how filling it will be." She made her way back to the bed and lay down with a soft huff as she landed on her stomach.

“Do you apply that in Antiva?” He laughed as he tossed his sticks in the trash. “I’ve eaten these things that make you hallucinate and hear animals. Fun was had that night!” Mort looked chipper as he hovered over Rev. His head dipped near hers. She chuckled and turned to look up at him over her shoulder. "It certainly does. I am a huge fan of pasta and cheese," she said with a laugh. "Can't say I've ever voluntarily ingested poison, though." “Pasta and cheese are the best together. Add bacon bites, and you have a delicacy.” He chuckled at her silliness. “It is not fun.” He shook his head with puckered lips.

"Now you're speaking my language," she said with a laugh as she rolled onto her back and looked up at him, beckoning him closer. "Well, let's hope you don't do that again, hmm?" “Some restaurants around here serve pasta and cheese together. If it comes with bacon bits, I’m not sure,” he chuckled as he sat up. “The poison was harmless somehow, and I’m going to get changed real quick.” He took a gander around the room in search of a private changing spot, only to see none. “I’ve got to change in front of you, don’t I?” "That sounds incredible," she told him, sitting up when he did. She chuckled at his comment. "Well, if you're shy, I can close my eyes," she teased playfully. "But it's also nothing I haven't seen before."

“Yes, please do,” he chuckled heartily before stripping into cleaner clothes. Mort brought another pair for the day tomorrow, and then he’ll go home and change into something appropriate for the date. Once he’d changed, he lay next to Rev. “All done!” She closed her eyes as he asked, rolling them under her eyelids. It was adorable that he was shy like that. She opened her eyes when she felt him get back on the bed. She turned and admired him, tracing a hand across his chest. "You look good, by the way." “Thank you!” He placed a kiss on her lips before resting his palm beside her. “Are you going to change? Bedtime awaits us.”

"Who said anything about sleeping?" She taunted with a laugh as she climbed out of bed and changed into an oversized t-shirt before climbing back into her bed and cuddling up to Mortimer. "Better?" “Oh, we’re not getting honk shoos just yet?” He pretended to sleep and snored loudly, opening one eye to look at Rev, then closed it. A few seconds later, he laughed. “Yes, better.” He snuggled her closer. She chuckled and rolled her eyes as he pretended to sleep, playfully swatting his arm before lying down so they could cuddle. She rested her hands on his chest and nuzzled her face against his neck, giving him a soft kiss.

“How was your day, Rev?” His hand caressed her arm gently. He hummed lowly at the kiss, squeezing her to acknowledge it. She chuckled warmly as he squeezed her, giving his neck another soft kiss. "It was alright. Finding out you had the flower I had hunted all over the city for was good news, so thank you for that. I was not looking forward to having to hunt more tomorrow." He chuffed. “Never saw that flower before the day you received it. Appeared in my pocket moments before I entered the place. Hunt? As in hunting animals or Venatori?”

"Then I'll have to thank your pockets," she teased with a chuckle. "Hunt as in scour the city again looking for it. I do need to go on an actual hunt again here soon. Animal or Venatori, whichever the world decides to offer me." She was very casual about the statement, putting Venatori on the same level as prey animals. Revasan further explained her hunt in detail, and realization clicked in Mort’s mind. Rev grouped them in as equals based on how she said it. “Animal or Venatori? Some carnivore you are!” He joked lightly. The hand on her arm ran through a silky strand of hair. She chuckled softly at his comment. She didn't know what exactly he meant, but he was enthusiastic about it. "Thanks, Morty." She kissed his neck again as she smiled.

Revasan hummed contentedly as she smoked her hookah, blowing small smoke rings with her mouth before watching them waft away on the breeze. She had decided to treat herself to a night out after a job well done. Mort wandered in with Revasan's note telling him to meet her at this odd hookah place. The place smells of different scents cloying about. Mortimer grumbles to himself discontented about it. Only a few more steps and he spots Rev across the lounge smoking and relaxing. Join her, you bollock. Mort forced his feet to swiftly cross the room to greet her. "Hello, Rev. Nice of you to break and enter to sticky note my forehead. So kind of you." He jokingly beamed.

She smirked as she spotted Mortimer, making a small show or crossing her legs and leaning forward to slightly accentuate her cleavage. "You're welcome. I was afraid if I was too subtle you wouldn't get the message," she said as she bit the corner of her bottom lip slightly. "Come join me!" She told him, patting the seat next to her, their night together repeating in her mind. Mort fought his urge to gaze upon the fine cleavage of which was whispering his very name into his ears. Mort took the spot she patted whilst his eyes remained locked on hers. "That was quite chest- cleavage- subtle of you. If you hadn't placed it directly between my eyebrows, I'd not even be here. How are you?"

She chuckled at his fumbling. She found it endearing, really. She leaned in and whispered to him, "Well you two were so well acquainted last time." Her voice was light and teasing, full of mischief before leaning back in her seat, wrapping an arm across the top of the couch as she took another drag of the hookah before offering him the hose. "I'm good. Could be better, but no complaints. Yourself?" "Yet, they mispronounce my name." He returned the teasing with a faint frown, but equally full of mischief before gently denying the hose. "Quite alright. Why better? Has something occurred in your day?" He teased while crossing a leg over the other.

"Then we should fix that," she teased again with a laugh. "Been running around trying to find a specific herb that apparently no one here sells so it's been frustrating, but it's better now that you're here. I rather enjoyed your company last time." "Yes, I agree! Knowing my name will help them greatly," he laughed brightly. "Which herb are you in need of? Wait, am I the herb? Revasan, you bugga, you!" he flicked his hand down like a girly girl and placed the other on his chest as his eyes batted. She laughed and rolled her eyes. "No, it's black lotus. In the south, it only grew in one region on the rocky beaches. I have yet to find someone here who has it and I need it for one of the poisons I use on my arrows. You wouldn't happen to know anyone would you?"

Morty digs in his pocket and pulls the exact flower she spoke of from his pocket then presented it to her. "This one?" She looked at him with wide eyes and gently took the flower from him. "Where did you find this?" She asked curiously as she studied the flower. "My pocket just now." He answered in all seriousness. His pockets have a habit of having what he needs when he needs it. She rolled her eyes with a chuckle. "Well, thank you. I appreciate it." She took the flower and wrapped it in a handkerchief and put it in her pocket. She turned back to him and scooted slightly closer. "So what have you been up to since I last saw you?" "No worries," he smiled kindly, adjusting to scoot closer to her after she pocketed the herb. "Added to my coin purse collection, shaping up this facial hair, shaved my ass hair, and napping. Yourself?"

"Last thing I needed to know about is your ass hair." She laughed warmly and shook her head. "Your new coin purse floral like the other one? I've been out hunting in the forest mostly. Testing some new poisons. The usual." "I thought we were close?" He asked with a playful curiosity. "Nope, I snagged a fox print purse! Hunting? Ah, you're one with nature. Tell me, do you use pinecones as money and bathe in rivers?" She glared at him and swatted his arm for his comment. "Hysterical", she told him sarcastically. "I am a ranger so yes, I'm close with nature. Bagged a beautiful halla. I was going to offer you some of the venison but now, I don't know," she taunted with a smirk.

Her sarcasm pulled a laugh from Morty. His eyes twinkled as he looked at Rev. "I'm amazing." He retorted. "Who needs venison when I'm working my way into bagging a beautiful elf?" Son of a bitch. That was actually pretty smooth. She genuinely couldn't believe he had just said that to her. Her cheeks flushed red as she was stunned and left speechless, a feat not many could actually accomplish. "Me being that smooth is probably a one time thing." He laughed brightly at himself. 

"Did you mean it though? That you're interested in bagging a beautiful elf?" She asked curiously, unsurprised at his admission of that likely being a one time thing. There was hope in her eyes. She did enjoy his company. He was fun to be around and, Creators, he was great in bed. "Oh- uhm, yes. I sound unsure but yes." Mort is sure he is sure, he hasn't connected with anyone on a level he has with Revasan. She is fun, witty, and all around pleasant to be around. "Are you interested in bagging an awkward man?" She chuckled warmly and scooted closer to him, their knees touching now. "Yeah, I find it endearing," she explained with a playful smirk, walking her fingers up his forearm.

He kept his eyes on her knee, watching as it moved closer and closer until it rested against his. Then she walked her fingers up his forearm, his gaze caught them just as they reached the top of his shoulder. "Likewise. I mean you aren't awkward, but I meant I find you endearing," he fumbled his words with a smirk on his face. "Among others things, I hope," she teased as she raised her eyebrows at him, leaning in closer to him, half tempted to climb into his lap and have him hold her. She decided against it. This wasn't really the place for that sort of PDA.

“Among what things?” Oblivious with a wide smile is his prerogative. Mort noticed how she is almost in his lap but held back due to the setting of the place. Probably wise since his hands would go where they shouldn’t. "Well, I would hope you have more feelings towards me than just finding me endearing." She tilted her head to the side, batting her eyelashes at him. She trailed one finger along his jaw. "OH! oh yes, yes, yes, yes, yes...yes." He repeated as realization set in further. "I'm not going anywhere, Rev. Am I dissipating?" Mort pat himself down to spur the act. She chuckled at his antics. "Good," she said plainly with a smirk before leaning in and kissing him, caressing his cheek as she did so then stroking his facial hair. "I would hate to have to hunt you down."

He melted into the kiss, placing his hand on her cheek. "Oh my, I'd be sport? Honored!" He whispered against her lips. She chuckled warmly, whispering back to him, "Oh, honey, you wouldn't stand a chance." She kissed him again, this time with a little more heat. She shifted so she was on her knees, so very tempted to straddle his lap but reminding herself to save that for later. “Wouldn’t want it any other way.” He returned the heat of the kiss, pressing into it with equal want. Mort needs her on him but he reminds himself they’re not exactly secluded. Mort gently pulls away and holds her away, dramatically looking to the side. “We must stop! We are compromised by onlookers,” he dramatically said.

Once they arrived at the vineyard, Din’an fussed with one of her braids, not entirely happy with how they turned out after she had hastily redone them. Though, being irritated with her hair was worth the experience they had had in the hot spring. "Oh, wow, this place is really pretty," she said quietly as she looked around. Jude was in a state of pure bliss after their time in the hot springs. He almost missed what Di said to him. "Oh, yeah, it is. I wonder which wine they have here; I am parched." He teased. He watched her fuss with her braid and decided to redo it for her the way she was trying to braid it.

"Not sure, but probably something made in-house," she told him, stopping as he started to rebraid her hair in the way she normally wore it. She couldn't help but blush softly as she felt his hands in her hair again. He redid the braid before redoing the other, lightly combing her hair out with his fingers to separate it into three parts. “In-house wine can be good. Do you have a preference?” She couldn't help but smile as he was so tender with her. "I'm a cabernet girl. What about you?" He was finishing up with the last braid as he thought. He doesn’t know many wines except for the standard red, and he doesn’t like that one. Too dry and too rotten. “I don’t know, but not dry.”

She hummed in thought for a moment. "You would probably like white wines, or maybe a sweet red? Those aren't common, but when you do find one, they're really good!" “Maybe! I’m not gonna knock it.” Her braid is done, and she is happier. “Your bow is also in its place. Now you can stop fussing and enjoy this view!” He said while motioning to the amazing view. She chuckled as she ran a hand down each braid, inspecting it. "Thank you, Jude. I appreciate you doing that for me. It's very sweet. As for the view," she smiled up at him. "I'm already enjoying it." His freckled face is red as a beet from her compliment. “Oh, thank you, Di.” He ran a nervous hand behind his neck. Oh, she got him with this one. “I like my view, too.” He smiled down at her.

"Thank you," she told him with a chuckle at how red he was. "Shall we get something to drink?" She asked with a smile, gesturing to the bar nearby. He thankfully nodded and directed them towards the bar. “Something to eat as well. Worked up quite an appetite.” "Mm, you and I both," she said with a smile as she led them up to the bar and picked up a couple of menus and handed him one. He took the menu and a seat and began browsing. So many options to select from. 

Jude is impressed with the options. “What are you looking at?” She took a seat in the chair next to Jude and browsed the menu. "Hmm, honestly, I'm not entirely sure yet. Everything sounds so good. Anything jumping out at you?" He leaned to show her the spicy chicken sandwich meal. “This looks absolutely bangin’!” "That does look really good! I wonder how spicy it is," she said absently. She normally loved spicy food but didn't entirely trust what their definition of 'spicy' was. “They have levels, look.” He points out a spice meter to Di. "Oooo, okay," she said with a smile. "You know, I think you've convinced me. I think that's what I'll get. What are you thinking about?" “Yeah, I’m getting it with everything on it at the mild spice level. Sensitive stomach. I’m guessing you’re getting it at the spiciest?” He smiled.

"You know it!" She said with a warm laugh. "I love spicy food. Spices make even the poorest cut of meat taste pretty damn good." “I bet!” Jude flagged the waiter and placed their orders, as well as made sure Di had a say in the order process so she wasn’t excluded. She smiled at Jude as they ordered, enjoying this moment with him. "I can't wait to try the food!" She told him excitedly after the waiter walked away. “Me neither! I’m knackered, but food will restore my energy.” He played with her braid while they waited for their drinks. “I enjoyed you earlier. Thanks for trusting me.” 

"You and me both," she agreed with a chuckle, leaning in closer to him as he played with her braid. "I enjoyed you too. You make it easy to trust you," she admitted, blushing softly. "Thank you for turning me down." “Turning you down?” That baffled him. “Remind me of this, please?” "Not that you have turned me down before!" She quickly clarified. "I've been shot down a lot lately, and it's kind of impacted my confidence," she said as her ears drooped slightly. “I understand that, but it was so we didn’t rush right into sleeping with each other. We built a connection, got to know each other, and then we connected. It felt natural.” Jude sounded controlling, and he is suddenly overthinking it. “You have a say in this as much as I do! I’m not going to control everything we do, nor do I wish to! You have a say!” He rushed out.

"No, no, that's not.. I didn't mean rejection from you specifically or even in regards to intimacy..." and now she was rambling. She sighed and shook her head. "Can we try this again?" She asked with a shy chuckle, feeling like she had made things awkward. "Yes." He simply said. Their drinks came right on time for them to sip as they settled into their conversation. "You felt like we connected too?" She asked curiously, though she was hesitant. Her and relationships didn't exactly mesh, and Jude was the first person in a long time to stick around for longer than a night. 

"Yeah, since we spoke before doing anything. Getting to know each other and being friends first is crucial, in my humble opinion." He explained before sipping his wine. It is actually good. "We spoke before too, but... something about tonight was different. It was... special in a way," she explained as she sipped her drink. “I agree… what was different about tonight that made it special?” He asked. "I don't know... Maybe because I... I finally opened up to you about my past," she said with a soft smile, almost nervous. It had been a long time since she had told anyone about it. Part of her was still afraid he would be freaked out and run.

“We all have pasts, bruv. Not every past is perfect, but it doesn’t make sense for me to hold you to who you were seven years ago.” He nudged her gently. "It's not so much that you would hold it against me, more so that it would freak you out and you'd run," she admitted quietly. “Run? Why?” "Because it's too much, too dark, too sad?" Her ears drooped slightly as she spoke. “Okay? That doesn’t mean I am going to run. Unless you plan on turning into a spider, then I am indeed running.” She laughed warmly and shook her head. "Definitely not planning to do that anytime soon." “Okay then we’re all good, bruv.” He laughed.

"Good," she told him with a smile. Just then their food arrived. "Ooo, this looks and smells incredible!!" “I can smell the atomic spiciness of yours, bruv. Praying for you.” He took his plate, chuckling a bit. "You want a bite?" She offered with a catlike grin, already knowing his answer. “Hell no, I’ll eat my own.” He shook his head no. She laughed warmly and took a bite of her sandwich, humming happily as she ate it. "So good!" Jude bit into his sandwich and nearly melted on the spot. Man, these chefs know how to cook. “Indeed.” She eagerly ate her sandwich, soon eating half of it. "How's your mild version?"

“Is yours not hot? You didn’t order the spiciest!” He laughed, covering his mouth. “My mild sandwich is good.” "Oh, it's definitely hot, exactly how I wanted it," she told him with a chuckle, wiping some of the sauce from the corner of her mouth with a finger. "You're sweating, Di." He eyed a bead of sweat along her hairline. "That's part of what makes it good," she said as she wiped the sweat from her forehead. "Clears your senses too!" “Can you think better?” He teased. "I'm glad you agree!" She teased back as she finished her sandwich and wiped her mouth on her napkin.

Jude finished his sandwich in a few bites and wiped his mouth clean. “That was delicious.” "Almost as delicious as you," she flirted with a chuckle and a wink. He leaned to press a kiss to her lips. “Thank you, Di.” "You're very welcome, Jude," she said before giving him another kiss. He smiled into the kiss, pecking her lips three more times before resting his head on hers. She chuckled as he pecked her lips, nuzzling her nose against his with a smile. “I’m confident this will work,” Jude said into her hair. "This? You mean... us?" She asked hesitantly, almost afraid for his answer.

“Yes, us, Di.” He noted the hesitation in her voice, and it didn’t cause him to falter. She blushed heavily, feeling the warmth in her cheeks spread to the tips of her ears. Did he really mean that? "Really?" was all she could ask as the thought of having a partner whirled through her mind. He took her head in his hands, tilted her head up, and laid a kiss so passionate and sweet to her lips. “Yes, Din’an, you and I. Jude and Di,” he whispered to her. She let out a soft surprised gasp as he kissed her, but she quickly melted into it. She whimpered a little as he pulled away, not wanting the kiss to end. "So... does that make you my boyfriend now?"

“Well, not yet.” He took her hands in his feeling how soft they are. They’re warm and gentle in his hands. “It is getting late, and I saw a boat somewhere here. Wanna go on a boat ride?” As much as she wanted to pull away, to flee, she fought the urge to do so. Something about Jude made her feel safe, and she didn't find that very often. She brushed her thumbs across his hands and smiled at him. "A boat ride sounds nice." Jude asked the bartender for the time, nodding his head as he thought. Here’s to hoping she doesn’t run off. “Meet me at the boat in an hour. I have something I have to take care of. I will be there, I promise.” He held his pinky up for her to take.

Din’an led Jude to the hot springs, smiling as she saw the scene before her. It already looked relaxing. She shed her clothes before striding into the water, humming softly as the hot water surrounded her. He shed his clothes, then got in next to Di, relaxing in the hot spring. The water must have calming properties because the bruise on his side is hurting less. She had her back towards him as she took her hair down. She leaned back, dipping her hair in the warm water and running her hands through it. She turned to face him, seeing how relaxed he looked. "Enjoying the water so far?"

“Very much, and you?” He asked. Oh, this water is going to lull him to sleep. "Oh absolutely. Isn't it so relaxing?" She told him with a smile as she moved back towards him, taking a seat on the built-in bench in the pool of warm water. "Wanna join me?" He looked around in confusion at her question. “Aren’t I with you?” "I meant taking a seat on the bench," she clarified with a chuckle, running her hands through her hair again. “I thought I was on the bench?” Jude felt the surface under him and looked around. “What am I sitting on if this isn’t a bench?” He moved towards her to join her on her bench.

"My bad, I didn't realize it extended over there," she told him with a chuckle as she moved to sit next to him. “I’ll come to you, don’t worry,” he says as he does make his way towards her. It’s deeper so he understands now. “Man, this water is bangin’.” "Isn't it though? It feels incredible," she told him with a smile as he made his way towards her. "Almost as incredible as you," she flirted with a laugh. “You’re awfully flirty today, bruv,” he teased with a laugh. “Was the kiss not enough to sate you, lass?” He quirked a brow. "It's because I'm happy and enjoying myself, Jude," she told him with a smile before the insecurity kicked in. "That's not a problem, right?"

“No, but I’d like to take things slow. I’m not new to this, but the last… relationship I had, it ended with us on bad terms due to how we rushed. If I can avoid that with you, I’d like to. You are within your own right to enjoy yourself, and I am very happy you are, as am I. Don’t let me dim your light; let it shine, Di. Be you, always,” he pulls her in for a hug. “I don’t mind affection, but too much makes me tense. We have a fun dynamic, and I’d be torn if it went awry.” She's surprised by the hug but returns it, resting her head on his shoulder. "I get that, and I'm sorry if I gave you the impression that I want things to go fast. That isn't the case. I really like our dynamic too." She paused for a moment before her voice dropped to a whisper. "I just ... I want you, in a physical way, but I understand if you don't feel the same."

“You’ll have me, but not at the moment. We just ate, and I don’t think I have the energy to properly be physical with you.” She chuckled as she looked up at him. "Fair enough, and I didn't mean right this moment. I have to recover from our meal too." “Okay, we’re on the same page. Good!” He laughs. "That was entirely too much dairy to get freaky right after," she said with a laugh, moving to lean back against the wall of the hot spring. “Right on, bruv,” he laughs and joins her against the wall. “How did these people manage this? To say ‘fuck you’ to high society like this is a powerful statement.” "Honestly, I don't know. I'm impressed though. It's really nice." She looked around before leaning her head back against the edge of the pool. "I never thought someone could have a private island, much less one this nice."

“Or this expensive. For us to enjoy with the snobs of society. Man, they must be fuming, bruv!” He laughs a full belly laugh. She laughed with him. "Right?! Look at us! I never thought I would be sitting in a hot spring on a private island." “How can a place like this even exist and the fact that it is here for the public is even more baffling.” "Right?! It's mindblowing," she told him with a sense of wonder and awe in her voice. “Super,” he agreed. He relaxed more if even possible in the water. She smiled over at him, chuckling at how at peace he seemed. "Enjoying the hot spring?" She teased playfully. "Yeah, you?" He asked.

"I really am. I couldn't tell you the last time I felt this relaxed." She paused for a moment in thought and chuckled. "Been almost as long since someone saw me with my hair down." "Why's that? It's hair," he said. Jude didn't say it dismissively but out of curiosity. "Never been in the position to have my hair down," she explained plainly. "I keep it up when I'm in Minrathous because it gets in the way when I'm fighting. Haven't exactly had many house guests in recent years either." “That is reasonable. I keep mine braided, and I don’t know what it looks like,” he laughs. “You fight a lot?”

"Honestly, it's a weird day when I'm not fighting. The only time that happens is if I don't leave the lighthouse. I uhh... the Venatori really don't like me," she admits with a chuckle. “Venatori dislike everyone who isn’t them,” he chuckles. “Constructs swing on sight, so there’s that.” "It's a little more complicated than that. I might be a little bit of a folk hero around Dock Town. I might also have wanted posters," she said with a chuckle, feeling her cheeks warm up at the admission. “Wanted posters, bruv? Folk hero? Am I in the presence of a famous person? Do I get an autograph?” 

She laughed and ran a hand through her hair shyly. "I'd say I'm more infamous than famous, but if you ever hear a Venatori talking about the Red Death, good chance, they're talking about me." “I’ll be sure to ask around when I’m in Tevinter next,” he teased. She laughed and shook her head. "Just don't do it while I'm with you," she told him, nudging his elbow with hers. "Nah, I won't bruv. I'll do it when you're away from me," he said as if he cracked some genius code. She rolled her eyes and playfully swatted him for his comment. "You're such a dork sometimes." "Thank you! I am quite the goof goober." He smugly said.

"Yeah, I'm noticing that. Luckily for you, it adds to your charm," she teased, gently poking his cheek. "You are also a goofy goober!" he poked her cheek back. She turned her head and dramatically gnashed her teeth at his finger. "How is that?" He feigned a horrified look and girly screamed when she gnashed at his finger. "My finger, no!" "My point exactly!!" She teased with a bright laugh, poking him in the chest. He poked her in the nipple and then backed away quickly.

She covered her nipple with her hand and gasped dramatically. "I can't believe you!" She told him, barely holding back a laugh, poking his nipple in return. "That's mine!" He covered his nipple, poking her other nipple before exiting the spring to run. "You ass!" She called after him with a laugh. "I will so get you back for that!" "You have to catch me first!" he maintained a good distance from Di. He made sure to avoid wet spots to not slip. "I am not chasing you around in the nude! Not in public at least," she said with a chuckle as she shook her head. 

"It's secluded! Start running!" He taunted. "Not in your life, Jude," she protested as she sat in the water. "If you want me to chase you, you'll have to take me somewhere more private," she said with a chuckle, crossing her arms across her chest. She wouldn't say it, but she was deeply insecure about people seeing her body, especially any potential strangers. Jude stopped where he was and looked at Di with a strange expression. They're alone, and the island sealed them off from the party. "Are you insecure?" Jude asked while approaching her. She wouldn't meet his gaze, absently tracing one hand over the scar on her face, the other wrapping tighter around her body. "Maybe." 

"Okay! Baby steps. You respect my boundaries, and I will respect yours. We can chase each other in the water with our heads poking out, or we can sit next to each other and pick up where we left off. You have choices." he smiled kindly at Di, hoping he is calming her rather than scaring her. She spoke softly, still unsure. "Can we sit next to each other?" She was still avoiding his gaze, her ear drooping slightly as though she was afraid of rejection. He practically sat on top of her before she could finish her question. "Oh, hey there." She made a surprised noise as he sat on top of her, followed by a laugh as she wrapped her arms around his neck and smiled at him. "Is this okay? " It's not too close or anything?"

"No. Why are you insecure, and if I said no, why would it affect you negatively?" Jude asked with a kindness in his voice. "I ... I haven't had a lot of luck when it came to relationships," she told him, not really sure how else to explain her feelings. "How so?" With her arms still wrapped around his neck, he moved from her lap to sit next to her but close. "My scar is off-putting to a lot of folks." She looked away as she spoke her next words. "It's hard to accept praise about something that was tormented and mocked for years. Even if they're being earnest, it's hard for me to believe compliments."

“How’d you get the scar?” He traced it with his fingertips. She fought the urge to pull away even though every fiber of her being told her to. "It ..." she sighed. "It's a bit of a long story. I can give you the abridged version, but it's still... well, a bit of a downer." “Tell me what you’re comfortable with.” He smiles softly. "I was born a slave in Minrathous. The Mrs. did this to me in a fit of rage one day," she said plainly. “We can handle that if you want to.” He said plainly. "It's already been handled. It's been years now, actually. That's how I got out." Her voice was even, cold almost. He nodded instead of speaking. He twiddled his thumbs while trying to think of something to say. All he can muster is to rest his head on hers.

“Not too bothersome. Why do you trust me? When we met, we slept together.” He hummed. "Well, because you seem trustworthy. I've spent a lot of time on the streets, and I've developed a pretty good sense for that kind of thing. Plus, when we first met, I was kind of tipsy, and I thought you were cute. That's why we slept together." “You think I’m cute?” He asked sweetly, framing his face with his hands, smiling and blinking cutely. “You are cute, too.” "I do. You're also handsome." She wasn't expecting the compliment and blushed slightly. "Thank you." “You’re welcome. Hm, so what do we chat about now?”

"What was your life like before you joined the Veilguard?" “Simple, regular. My parents are working their shops while I’m here building my own path. Yours? You don’t have to answer.” "After I got my freedom, I linked up with the Shadow Dragons. Spent some time in Marnas Pell, only recently went back to Minrathous. Pretty much spend my days hunting Venatori for sport," she said with a shrug. “Does it bring you relief?” "Relief isn't really what I'd call it. More so that it helps me keep those memories behind me. It helps me feel like I'm helping prevent people from going through what I did."

He understands and nods. “You are helping people. You and Neve Gallus would work well together.” "Oh, we've met. Her touch is a little too soft for my liking. I think the Venatori should all be murdered in the street like the vermin they are." “I admire her work. Running around Thedas trying to save the world while we party cannot be easy.” "I didn't mean to imply she doesn't do good work. She does. She's one of our main sources of intel for the Shadows." “I didn’t take what you said as Neve is a bad worker. She is just… doing very hard work,” he chuckles. “In a way, we all are.”

"She is, and yeah, I guess we all are in a way. Never expected myself to ever be able to take a day off like this. It's ... nice. Unexpected, but nice." “What do you do for work?” "Officially? I work with a blacksmith. I help run his stall in the market." “A blacksmith? No wonder you know how to- so do you like it?” He laughed. "No wonder I know how to what?" She asked curiously. "And I do like it. He really took me under his wing, and he's like the dad I never had." “Nothing,” he shrugged it off. “Tell me about him.”

"I'm gonna find out," she told him with a playful nudge. "He's this older human. Been around Dock Town for a while. He does a lot of work for the templars: swords, armor, and such. He's a nice man, well, nice to me. He's certainly not someone I would want to cross. I've seen him lose his temper at templars before, and it was not a pretty sight." “Is he still around? Consider paying him a visit?” He inquired. Jude should go visit his parents. "He is. Honestly, I would love to visit him one of these days. It'd be good to see him again. Make sure he's taking care of himself while I'm gone, you know?"

“I know. I may visit my parents one of these days and my cousin, Jade.” "I think you should. I know I miss my mom. You should treasure yours while she's still around." “You should come with.” He tossed out. "I'd be honored," she accepted with a smile. “Mum and dad are both chill. If Jade is there, ignore her stare; she doesn’t like new people when she herself refuses to make friends.” She chuckled warmly. "Good to know. Marx can be cranky, so I wouldn't recommend just popping in to visit him." “Oh, I’m not going to Minrathous anytime soon,” he chuckled. "Good. If you do go, let me know. I don't want you going by yourself. Too many shady characters there."

“Besides the underground places, I have no reason to go. I prefer Antiva and the Lighthouse.” "Totally understandable. It can be a bit of a shithole, but it's home." “I’m from Orlais, but I’m not Orlesian.” "Yeah, but do you live or work in Orlais? I do both in Dock Town." “I’ll be returning when the Veilguard is finished with its mission.” "Ahh, I got you. How did someone from Orlais make it all the way north and then join the Veilguard?" “I just did. I joined the Veil Jumpers and relocated to the lighthouse. Since then, I’ve been working and living my life. Made a friend named Roisin and then you.” "Huh. Interesting. You're really the only friend I've made here."

"Gotta socialize, bruv! Make some friends your age- I'm the exception, though," he teased. "Haven't really had time for socializing. Just been working nonstop." “What are we doing then?” He teased. "Enjoying one of my few nights off," she sassed him, booping his nose with her finger. "You throw yourself into work! You can take more days off bruv!" He booped her nose and cheek. "You say that, but I have to keep busy or otherwise..." she sighed, her ears drooping. "The memories can get to be too much if I'm idle."

"Are you aware of therapy? There are two or so offices in the lighthouse. Naina Hawthorne and Horace Alucarde. I have to warn you, Horace is loud and deaf, but he is chill to be around." "Tried it before and it didn't really help. It's ... well, the memories just encroach on my mind. Sometimes I'm not even aware of it happening until it's too late." "Ah okay. Well, should you wish to try again, I can join you for support." "Thank you. I appreciate that, Jude." “You’re okay.” He smiled at her. She moved closer to him, resting her head on his shoulder. "Thank you. For everything tonight. This has been a much-needed break." “No problem, Di.” He rested his head on hers. “Much needed.”

She chuckled softly as he rested his head on hers. "Why did you decide to sleep with me when we first met?" “I think I was high…? I went with it and enjoyed it.” He lightly shrugged his free shoulder. She chuckled again at his answer. "Fair enough." She lifted her head and looked up at him, feeling her insecurities stir within her because of how close he was. "You really think I'm cute?" “I wouldn’t have said you were if I didn’t. That’s rude.” He booped her nose. She blushed softly, thankful for the low light, hoping he didn't notice. "Thank you. You're very sweet." “You’re welcome.” He played with her fingers to pass time.

"So, um... wanna play 20 questions?" She asked him a little shyly. "We don't have to, but I think it'd be fun to get to know each other better." Jude let out a hearty laugh while saying yes. “Yeah, I’m down. What’s your name?” She gave him a look of 'seriously?' "I meant questions we don't already know the answer to, smart ass," she told him with a laugh. “I don’t know your last name!” He sassed back. She got quiet for a second. "I don't really have a last name." His brow furrowed at hearing her. “You don’t? You want one?” "Is that a proposal?" She couldn't help but tease him a little, chuckling to herself at her terrible joke. "I mean, the one I use on all official stuff is Marx's last name. Apparently Mercar is really common in Minrathous, so I use it when I have to use a last name."

“I mean I don’t mind if you use one of my last names,” he chuckles. Yes he said, multiple last names. She tilted her head to the side, her ears twitching with curiosity. "What do you mean by last names?" She paused. "I don't think I know your last name either." He laughed before clearing his throat. “Jude Santiago Riva D’Olimpo de Arevaggio.” She looked at him with large eyes, surprised. "That is a lot of last names," she said with a laugh. “What happens when your bloodlines are stubborn and not willing to die out!” He laughed. She laughed with him. "Well, I'm glad one of us is in touch with their roots. I can only imagine the family stories you must have." “I’ve plenty! You wanna use one of my last names? I use de Santiago because that is my bloodline.” "Maybe. I'll think on it, but thank you, Jude. That's a very sweet offer."

“Not an issue. Your turn to ask me a question.” "What's your favorite color?" “Gold. If you could be any height in the world, how tall would you be?” He grinned. "Mine's red!" She was surprised by the question but thought about it for a moment. "Tall enough to reach the top shelf in a kitchen. Favorite animal?" “Bear. If you could relive your favorite memory, but you’d forget it after, would you?” "Absolutely not. It's one of the few good memories I have with my mother. I would never want to risk forgetting that." “That’s fair,” he nods. He wouldn’t do it if he had the opportunity. "Favorite place you've been?"

"Don't have one. Favorite animal?" "Fair enough. My favorite animal has to be an elephant. They're strong, brave, and they never forget. Favorite food?" "Oooh, I enjoy too many dishes to have a favorite. What is your favorite song?" "Ooo, that's really tough; I honestly can't pick just one. Do you have a favorite smell?" "I love the smell of puppy breath. What is a goal of yours?" "To own my own home. Whether it be an apartment, condo, or house. I just want to be done renting. If you were to dye your hair, what color would you choose?" "Owning is better than renting. I'd choose red. Pure red. Would you be a frog for a day?" "Exactly!! If I have to look at those plain white walls for much longer, I'm going to go bananas. Is my hair what drew you to me, then?" She teased with a laugh. "Your hair is almost the same color as mine! Answer my question, goofball," he laughed.

"But it is a brighter red than yours; it's a fair question," she teased with a laugh. "No, I would not. If you were a woman for a day, what would you do?" "Sleep with another woman and flaunt what I got!" he sassed. "If you were a man for a day, what would you do?" "Pee standing up would be the first order of business," she said seriously but still with a smile. "Secondly, would bag the hottest woman I could and fuck her senseless. Or man, if he was a bottom and into that." "Priorities are set straight!" He laughed brightly. She laughed with him. "Damn right! If you could choose between being able to fly and being able to see the future, which would you pick?" "I will fly. I like the mystery of not knowing the future. Where do you see yourself in two years?"

"Then you would really enjoy how I get around Minrathous," she said with a chuckle. "Honestly, I don't know. I've never really thought that far ahead. I know I want to own my own place by then. What about you?" “Settled down maybe. I have ambitions of being with someone who feels the same as me. I somehow feel we will be alright after this war. What is your dream job?” "I sure hope so." She paused and thought for a moment. "I don't really have a dream job. Honestly, I don't dream of labor. I dream of not having to work every day." “You’re real for that. I technically am jobless but stable. Situation is quite odd.”

She chuckled and nodded her head. "I know what you mean. That was me before I met Marx." “Chill dude! Your turn.” She hummed in thought for a moment. "If you could go back and change any decision you've ever made, what would it be?" “Hm, I don’t know? I’ve been clear and decisive on my life choices thus far. What about you?” "I would have fought for my freedom earlier," she said plainly, a tinge of regret in her voice. He wrapped a protective arm around her and nuzzled his head on hers. “Do you feel free?” "Most of the time, yeah, but sometimes, I don't. The nightmares... well, they haunt me sometimes." “Well, there are options available if you feel they become too much.” That’s all he knows to offer. He can’t help her with those things, but he can support her and be with her when she needs someone to go to.

"Thank you," she told him softly, shifting to look up at him and cup his cheeks with her hands. "Really, thank you." A small smile was all he mustered as he gazed into her eyes. He nodded gently, still not knowing what to say. His eyes darted between her eyes and lips; both were alluring to Jude. She leaned in closer, her eyes flicking from his to his lips and back again before pulling him in for a soft kiss. He pressed into the kiss, kissing back with a sweetness he stores for her. She pulled away after a moment, slight panic running through her with the fear she overstepped. "Sorry, I just.. I thought..." She wasn't even sure what she thought.

“Hey, it’s okay, I kissed back. I wanted to kiss you back.” He quickly moved to calm her down by stroking her cheek with his thumb. He kissed her again in hopes she would stay. Her eyes sparkled, and she smiled as he stroked her cheek. She melted into his kiss, shifting her arms to wrap around his neck. A hand pulled her close as he gently swiped his tongue across her bottom lip for access. She gasped softly as he pulled her close, humming into the kiss as she opened her mouth for him, their tongues dancing against one another. The shared kiss is sweet and unhurried. Jude’s hand travels to the back of her head, tangling in her hair and gently tugging to gain a response.

She whimpered as he tugged on her hair, enjoying how it felt to have his hand in her hair. She was glad she trusted him enough to let her hair down (literally and figuratively). Jude separated enough for them to catch their breath. His hands were in their places, and his eyes were shut, but a smile was on his face. “You’re a good kisser.” She chuckled at his praise, smiling in return. "Thank you. You are too. And your lips are really soft." “Thank you, Di. I enjoy spending time with you. Are you feeling better?” "I'm feeling a lot better. Thanks to you, Jude. You really are a sweetheart; I hope you know that." “Aw, shucks! Thank you!” He blushed when he noticed they were still close to each other.

She chuckled as she saw him blush. "You're adorable when you're flustered, Jude." “A gorgeous woman is making me do that.” He chuckled. She chuckled as the blush in her cheeks rose to match his. "Now you've got me blushing." Her smile widened. “Two blushing elves.” He laughed. "Very true," she laughed with him. "I can't believe you think I'm gorgeous," she said quietly with a radiant smile. “Who made you believe otherwise? They’re wrong.” "Lots of people... lived experience. Lots of things really," she admitted quietly. “You’re beautiful. Flaws and all.” He said while gazing in her eyes. “I’m not lying, Di.”

She pulled him in for another kiss, his sweet words tugging at her heart. He happily melted into the kiss, pulling her into his lap, snaking his arms around her lower back to hold her close. She made a small surprised noise as he pulled her onto his lap. A shiver ran through her as she felt his hands on her lower back. “Are you comfortable?” He asked as he peppered kisses down her jaw. "More than comfortable," she told him with a chuckle, leaning in closer to him. "Are you comfortable?" “Yes,” he said between kisses. He wasn’t aiming to take their fun further since Di expressed she wasn’t comfortable doing so here, but he made sure to kiss her entire neck before capturing her lips once again. Her breathing stuttered as he kissed her neck and whimpered into his kiss. He was making it very difficult not to take things further. She couldn't help but press her body closer against his.

The kiss was slow and sensual; Jude had no concept of time due to the intoxication of Di’s lips. She hummed into the kiss, enjoying how he felt in her arms. She reflexively rolled her hips against him. He gasped when she rolled her hips into his, pulling her closer in an attempt to ground him to her. “Are you sure?” He whispered. "I'm sure," she whispered back to him, feeling caught up in the moment and her current feelings for him. She couldn't put it into words, but she could show him how happy he had made her. "Okay." He nodded before capturing her lips once again. He melted into their kiss, his hands roaming her back, mapping it as it has done before.