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Thankfully Caleb is mostly oblivious to Yussa's internal struggle to determine the right course of action when it comes to the uncomfortable situation he's unintentionally shined a light on. Surely Yussa must have known he felt this way before now, and could ignore it. He holds out hope that they can smooth this over and continue that way.
He eases back when Yussa puts a hand to his chest, pulling out and relieving him of his weight by shifting off him and onto the bed. Laying on his side, close but not touching, he contemplates getting up, until Yussa speaks again. That he calls his company welcome is encouraging. But equally, Caleb finds himself fondly amused by the allusion that follows, and he can't help smiling. What an image to put into his head.
"Once in a while a dozen or so sailors is just what the mood calls for?" he finishes when Yussa trails off, brows arching suggestively. Gods, he loves this man. He knows how utterly useless it is to acknowledge that after he's just sabotaged himself by implying that very thing, but it isn't something he can control. If he could...
Well, even if he could, he still probably wouldn't choose to feel otherwise. As much as it can hurt at times, his feelings for Yussa have also brought him a great deal of joy. He wouldn't give that up.
He eases back when Yussa puts a hand to his chest, pulling out and relieving him of his weight by shifting off him and onto the bed. Laying on his side, close but not touching, he contemplates getting up, until Yussa speaks again. That he calls his company welcome is encouraging. But equally, Caleb finds himself fondly amused by the allusion that follows, and he can't help smiling. What an image to put into his head.
"Once in a while a dozen or so sailors is just what the mood calls for?" he finishes when Yussa trails off, brows arching suggestively. Gods, he loves this man. He knows how utterly useless it is to acknowledge that after he's just sabotaged himself by implying that very thing, but it isn't something he can control. If he could...
Well, even if he could, he still probably wouldn't choose to feel otherwise. As much as it can hurt at times, his feelings for Yussa have also brought him a great deal of joy. He wouldn't give that up.
Yussa draws his legs together before he rolls onto his side to face Caleb. Ridiculously, he wants to be full again just to feel closer. Perhaps later, if Caleb stays long enough. It occurs to him then that this could be a shorter visit than he is assuming it will be.
Just ask me to stay. Thinking it nearly makes his breath catch.
He adjusts the pillow beneath his head and looks at the man next to him with an aching fondness that he tries to contain. It easily slips into a smirk as Caleb lifts his brows. Good. It's good that he can amuse his lover after all that. Isn't it?
"Once in a while," he affirms, voice lower with a soft, husky edge to it. It's hardly a match for the tone Caleb manages so effortlessly. "You, of all people, are aware of how demanding I can be."
Yussa shifts closer, inviting more contact. Even as he tries to lighten the mood, he cannot quite help the way his gaze sweeps over Caleb's familiar figure, seeking evidence of new injuries. He's become very familiar with the other wizard's scars and marks, and it doesn't look like he's been irreparably injured.
Just ask me to stay. Thinking it nearly makes his breath catch.
He adjusts the pillow beneath his head and looks at the man next to him with an aching fondness that he tries to contain. It easily slips into a smirk as Caleb lifts his brows. Good. It's good that he can amuse his lover after all that. Isn't it?
"Once in a while," he affirms, voice lower with a soft, husky edge to it. It's hardly a match for the tone Caleb manages so effortlessly. "You, of all people, are aware of how demanding I can be."
Yussa shifts closer, inviting more contact. Even as he tries to lighten the mood, he cannot quite help the way his gaze sweeps over Caleb's familiar figure, seeking evidence of new injuries. He's become very familiar with the other wizard's scars and marks, and it doesn't look like he's been irreparably injured.
Edited 2022-12-20 06:48 (UTC)
Oh, that's a tone that stirs something in him even now. If Yussa wants Caleb in him again sooner rather than later, all he has to do is continue referring to how demanding he can be in that silky husk. (Demanding enough for a dozen hardy partners? He could believe it. He's heard at least a couple stories from Yussa's youth by now.)
Caleb's gaze lingers on his smirk for a long moment, a reverie interrupted when the other man moves closer to him. He'd deliberately put a little distance between them, and Yussa is deliberately crossing that distance. At last, Caleb feels himself beginning to relax. Yussa clearly doesn't want him gone. He can salvage this.
Now he knows it is welcome, he reaches for his lover, slipping an arm around his waist to draw him in. He doesn't hold tightly, but his touch is less hesitant. He notes Yussa looking him over with a critical eye. While he could joke about him appreciating his figure, the reason for it is obvious considering the way they'd last parted.
"No lasting injuries," he confirms. Indeed, his scars are all familiar ones. Any damage he'd sustained in his own body was healed promptly that day. "I, ah...spent most of the fight as a dragon, so." He gives a half shrug, only the lively flash of his eyes and the hint of a proud smile confirming that his modesty is entirely for show. He knows exactly how impressive that is. It is ninth-level transmutation, the kind of spell so complex only a true master of the art might understand it, let alone cast it.
Caleb's gaze lingers on his smirk for a long moment, a reverie interrupted when the other man moves closer to him. He'd deliberately put a little distance between them, and Yussa is deliberately crossing that distance. At last, Caleb feels himself beginning to relax. Yussa clearly doesn't want him gone. He can salvage this.
Now he knows it is welcome, he reaches for his lover, slipping an arm around his waist to draw him in. He doesn't hold tightly, but his touch is less hesitant. He notes Yussa looking him over with a critical eye. While he could joke about him appreciating his figure, the reason for it is obvious considering the way they'd last parted.
"No lasting injuries," he confirms. Indeed, his scars are all familiar ones. Any damage he'd sustained in his own body was healed promptly that day. "I, ah...spent most of the fight as a dragon, so." He gives a half shrug, only the lively flash of his eyes and the hint of a proud smile confirming that his modesty is entirely for show. He knows exactly how impressive that is. It is ninth-level transmutation, the kind of spell so complex only a true master of the art might understand it, let alone cast it.
It is a deep relief to feel the confidence returning to Caleb's touch. Yussa breathes a soft sigh, releasing some of the tension he's been holding as Caleb welcomes him closer. His tension only eases more when Caleb reassures him that there is no lingering damage.
Yussa's golden gaze cuts up to meet the younger wizard's when he so casually mentions he spent most of the fight as a dragon. Now they are in thoroughly familiar territory: arcane wonders. Yussa's fingers brush against Caleb's chest and he feels a quiet thrill when he sees the pride in the other man's face. He has a few such high-level spells in his own spellbook, but he's been at this far longer. It's very impressive that Caleb not only mastered such a spell to feel confident casting it during a battle, but that he was able to truly use the power granted by it to his advantage.
The warmth he feels rising in him is, perhaps, an overreaction to his student's success. But gods, Caleb's transformation, the growth of his talent, is impressive. And exciting. Yussa shifts, trying to imagine what his lover might have looked like as a dragon.
"I am sorry to have missed it," he says, the warm purr lingering as a way of offering his very capable student praise. "That's an impressive casting, Caleb Widogast."
Yussa's golden gaze cuts up to meet the younger wizard's when he so casually mentions he spent most of the fight as a dragon. Now they are in thoroughly familiar territory: arcane wonders. Yussa's fingers brush against Caleb's chest and he feels a quiet thrill when he sees the pride in the other man's face. He has a few such high-level spells in his own spellbook, but he's been at this far longer. It's very impressive that Caleb not only mastered such a spell to feel confident casting it during a battle, but that he was able to truly use the power granted by it to his advantage.
The warmth he feels rising in him is, perhaps, an overreaction to his student's success. But gods, Caleb's transformation, the growth of his talent, is impressive. And exciting. Yussa shifts, trying to imagine what his lover might have looked like as a dragon.
"I am sorry to have missed it," he says, the warm purr lingering as a way of offering his very capable student praise. "That's an impressive casting, Caleb Widogast."
Warmth spreads out from his chest where Yussa's fingers trailed lightly and appreciatively over his skin. It sinks down into his stomach and up into his face as he purrs his praise, exactly the sort of reaction Caleb had hoped to earn. If there is one thing he is happy to brag about (just a bit), it is his skill with the arcane. He loves magic, and he is still thrilled by his own casting. He has never before felt such power--and more than that, felt that it was rightfully his, and well within his control.
"Danke. I could always give you a personal demonstration, Master Errenis," he offers, his voice low and warm and his eyes boldly intent on the older wizard's. His thumb rubs a wide half circle back and forth over the curve of Yussa's hip. "Shapechange does not consume its material component. So long as I have the reserves of energy available, I am able to cast it whenever I please."
Nothing brings forth Caleb Widogast's confidence like talk of his arcane accomplishments. But doesn't he deserve to boast a little, especially to his very attractive teacher? He has come far since Yussa first offered him guidance. Caleb has chosen a fitting specialty in transmutation. It would be difficult for anyone who had not witnessed the transformation first-hand to believe that the man laying here flirting openly with Yussa Errenis is the same one who would barely dare to meet his eyes two years ago.
"Danke. I could always give you a personal demonstration, Master Errenis," he offers, his voice low and warm and his eyes boldly intent on the older wizard's. His thumb rubs a wide half circle back and forth over the curve of Yussa's hip. "Shapechange does not consume its material component. So long as I have the reserves of energy available, I am able to cast it whenever I please."
Nothing brings forth Caleb Widogast's confidence like talk of his arcane accomplishments. But doesn't he deserve to boast a little, especially to his very attractive teacher? He has come far since Yussa first offered him guidance. Caleb has chosen a fitting specialty in transmutation. It would be difficult for anyone who had not witnessed the transformation first-hand to believe that the man laying here flirting openly with Yussa Errenis is the same one who would barely dare to meet his eyes two years ago.
Yussa gets a thrill from having witnessed Caleb's growth first-hand. It doesn't hurt that his very capable student is also a very attractive man. It's easy to fall back into this familiar banter, and it's a relief. Yussa takes it, resolving to address what passed between them earlier some time before Caleb leaves again.
But for now, he holds his lover's gaze, excited by how bold he is in his pride. Chills race over his skin as Caleb's thumb strokes against his hip. A smirk plays across his mouth. He knows how the spell works, of course, but he's just as pleased to let Caleb explain it.
"And what reserves of energy do you have now, Master Widogast?" he asks, as he shifts languidly against the man beside him. The kaftan he wore to bed, mostly unbuttoned now, threatens to fall off him if he moves just right, baring warm skin to cooler air. "Is there anything you wish to show me...?"
Yussa leaves a careful space in that question - he has no way of knowing how spent Caleb is or what he's had cause to cast between the start of his day and now.
But for now, he holds his lover's gaze, excited by how bold he is in his pride. Chills race over his skin as Caleb's thumb strokes against his hip. A smirk plays across his mouth. He knows how the spell works, of course, but he's just as pleased to let Caleb explain it.
"And what reserves of energy do you have now, Master Widogast?" he asks, as he shifts languidly against the man beside him. The kaftan he wore to bed, mostly unbuttoned now, threatens to fall off him if he moves just right, baring warm skin to cooler air. "Is there anything you wish to show me...?"
Yussa leaves a careful space in that question - he has no way of knowing how spent Caleb is or what he's had cause to cast between the start of his day and now.
While Caleb hasn't forgotten his blunder by any means, the shift in topic has leant him a much-needed distraction. If anything can paper over a few words unwisely chosen in the heat of passion, it is turning into a fucking dragon.
The hour is late, but he hasn't had cause for especially strenuous casting today. All of his higher reserves are still available to him--though only the highest truly matters. "Enough to complete the spell, and then some, if you wish this to happen right away."
His gaze is drawn, naturally, to the open front of his lover's loosely draped kaftan and the soft brown skin revealed beneath. Though he has mapped every inch of that bare skin before, and had the freedom to touch as he pleased earlier tonight, that doesn't make the tease any less thrilling. His desire for Yussa doesn't wane based on familiarity; he wants him as intensely now as he had the very first time. More, even. His stomach swoops pleasantly as Yussa presses against him, languid but deliberate.
"The true obstacle is size. Is there a space within Tidepeak equipped to comfortably contain an adult blue dragon?"
The hour is late, but he hasn't had cause for especially strenuous casting today. All of his higher reserves are still available to him--though only the highest truly matters. "Enough to complete the spell, and then some, if you wish this to happen right away."
His gaze is drawn, naturally, to the open front of his lover's loosely draped kaftan and the soft brown skin revealed beneath. Though he has mapped every inch of that bare skin before, and had the freedom to touch as he pleased earlier tonight, that doesn't make the tease any less thrilling. His desire for Yussa doesn't wane based on familiarity; he wants him as intensely now as he had the very first time. More, even. His stomach swoops pleasantly as Yussa presses against him, languid but deliberate.
"The true obstacle is size. Is there a space within Tidepeak equipped to comfortably contain an adult blue dragon?"
Yussa lifts a brow when Caleb questions what space might be available in Tidepeak. He gives the younger man a gentle push before rolling away from him. With a flutter of fabric, he shifts the kaftan back into place and goes so far as to do up a few of the buttons, though not all. He stops just below his sternum, ensuring that the fabric now covering his breasts could move to expose him with little effort.
"Not in this room," he says airily. Now that he's standing, Yussa is vaguely aware that he can feel Caleb's spend dripping out of him. He doesn't immediately tend to it, too interested in seeing his student cast such an impressive spell to bother. "But yes, there is."
Yussa crooks his fingers over his shoulder and waits, assuming Caleb might want to throw on some clothes before they leave the assured privacy of Yussa's bedroom. Granted, the only other person in the tower is Wensforth, and Yussa is quite sure his servant is fast asleep at this hour.
"There is a courtyard off the sitting room. It will accommodate such a large creature."
"Not in this room," he says airily. Now that he's standing, Yussa is vaguely aware that he can feel Caleb's spend dripping out of him. He doesn't immediately tend to it, too interested in seeing his student cast such an impressive spell to bother. "But yes, there is."
Yussa crooks his fingers over his shoulder and waits, assuming Caleb might want to throw on some clothes before they leave the assured privacy of Yussa's bedroom. Granted, the only other person in the tower is Wensforth, and Yussa is quite sure his servant is fast asleep at this hour.
"There is a courtyard off the sitting room. It will accommodate such a large creature."
Gods, this man. Caleb can't help loving the spontaneity and impatience in his wish to see this spell performed now, and he is a tempting vision in his half-open kaftan. It is all he can do to roll hurriedly out of bed to try and keep up with him. He shoves his legs into his smalls, then his trousers, and grabs the silver and jade rod from his belt that he needs to complete the casting. He follows the beckoning crook of Yussa's fingers without bothering to put on anything else.
The interior of the tower remains dark and quiet, lit only by moonlight, as they both pad barefoot down the stairway. The air is just cool enough at night for Caleb's bare skin to prickle with goosebumps.
"Shapechange requires the caster to be familiar with the creature they wish to become," he explains, "so in this case, I was inspired by the blue dragon the Nein slew on our first foray into the Folding Halls." Watching Yussa descend the stairs in front of him, he smiles quietly to himself. "That was just before we met you."
The interior of the tower remains dark and quiet, lit only by moonlight, as they both pad barefoot down the stairway. The air is just cool enough at night for Caleb's bare skin to prickle with goosebumps.
"Shapechange requires the caster to be familiar with the creature they wish to become," he explains, "so in this case, I was inspired by the blue dragon the Nein slew on our first foray into the Folding Halls." Watching Yussa descend the stairs in front of him, he smiles quietly to himself. "That was just before we met you."
"Ah, a wise use of that.... opportunity," he says with a small smirk of approval. "I heard you had one other encounter with a dragon - was it more brief?" he asks, curious. Jester babbled off the story at one point in a sending or visit, long after Yussa had stopped listening.
He slips into the sitting room and through it, out into a large courtyard open to the night sky. There are walls on all sides, and it's possibly much larger than Caleb might remember from the views from the room where Yussa receives visitors. But the tower is always precisely what he needs it to be, and this is no exception. They need space, and it would be unfortunate for a large blue dragon to appear in the sky above Nicodranas.
"Will this suit your needs?"
A fountain babbles at one end, flowing into the narrow pool that travels the length of the courtyard. The moon is bright here, bathing them both in pale light.
He slips into the sitting room and through it, out into a large courtyard open to the night sky. There are walls on all sides, and it's possibly much larger than Caleb might remember from the views from the room where Yussa receives visitors. But the tower is always precisely what he needs it to be, and this is no exception. They need space, and it would be unfortunate for a large blue dragon to appear in the sky above Nicodranas.
"Will this suit your needs?"
A fountain babbles at one end, flowing into the narrow pool that travels the length of the courtyard. The moon is bright here, bathing them both in pale light.
Caleb manages an achingly grateful smile before they kiss. Yussa understands him and his position well. He knows what his open support is worth on both a personal and political level. This is so much more than Caleb would ever have asked of him, even after their conversation about asking for what he wants. Even offering to follow his lead is generous.
"Earrings," he suggests fondly, and lightly kisses the pointed tip of Yussa's nearest ear. "And, ah--perhaps you could help me with one more thing?"
This is an entirely spur of the moment request. He feels strangely nervous asking, face warming with a reflexive flush, but he has already gotten this far. He lifts a hand from around Yussa and taps his face beneath his own eye to indicate what he's talking about: makeup. "Just a little bit, maybe, if you think it would look decent? Nothing flashy. A gold lip would probably not suit me as it does you." He catches the eye of Yussa's reflection again and smiles, soft and wry. "I trust your judgement."
There is nothing to be apprehensive about, Caleb reminds himself. Plenty of men regularly wear makeup, and wear it well, Yussa included. It's just that he has never been one of them. But perhaps this is a night to be daring and try something new--even if it is only a little kohl around his eyes or a dusting of shimmering powder over his cheekbones.
"Earrings," he suggests fondly, and lightly kisses the pointed tip of Yussa's nearest ear. "And, ah--perhaps you could help me with one more thing?"
This is an entirely spur of the moment request. He feels strangely nervous asking, face warming with a reflexive flush, but he has already gotten this far. He lifts a hand from around Yussa and taps his face beneath his own eye to indicate what he's talking about: makeup. "Just a little bit, maybe, if you think it would look decent? Nothing flashy. A gold lip would probably not suit me as it does you." He catches the eye of Yussa's reflection again and smiles, soft and wry. "I trust your judgement."
There is nothing to be apprehensive about, Caleb reminds himself. Plenty of men regularly wear makeup, and wear it well, Yussa included. It's just that he has never been one of them. But perhaps this is a night to be daring and try something new--even if it is only a little kohl around his eyes or a dusting of shimmering powder over his cheekbones.
Yussa is about to turn his attention toward one of his jewelry boxes when Caleb catches his attention. He peers at his lover, golden eyes bright as he considers the shy request. He moves over on the bench and pats the spot next to him.
"Sit," he says gently. "Straddle the bench, facing me. I will tend you in just a moment."
He pulls a box closer and chooses a pair of long gold drop earrings, then a few other pieces, including one with a delicate chain linking two star-shaped studs. Satisfied with his decoration, he pushes the box away and carefully chooses a few pots of makeup. He turns to face Caleb, one leg folded across the bench as he studies his lover's face.
He plucks up a thin brush and drags it lightly through his kohl.
"Look down - close your eyes, if that will help."
"Sit," he says gently. "Straddle the bench, facing me. I will tend you in just a moment."
He pulls a box closer and chooses a pair of long gold drop earrings, then a few other pieces, including one with a delicate chain linking two star-shaped studs. Satisfied with his decoration, he pushes the box away and carefully chooses a few pots of makeup. He turns to face Caleb, one leg folded across the bench as he studies his lover's face.
He plucks up a thin brush and drags it lightly through his kohl.
"Look down - close your eyes, if that will help."
"Much more extensive, actually," Caleb corrects with a breathy chuckle. "That was Gelidon, an ancient white dragon. We happened to cross paths with her twice. But it seems there are limitations even to the power of this spell when it comes to mimicking a creature so impressive."
As many times as Caleb has glimpsed this courtyard from other rooms, he has never had cause to visit it before. That the space is larger than the width of the tower itself, not to mention open to the night sky above, should be impossible. But there is some powerful and curious magic in the stones of Tidepeak that responds to its master's will, and even the impossible can exist here without fuss.
Even more intrigued by the concept of a shifting magical tower than the average wizard, Caleb will never stop finding that utterly fascinating.
"Ja, this will do nicely." Most of the courtyard is unobstructed, and while it probably isn't big enough for him to spread his wings, that is a moot point, as he isn't planning to fly anywhere. He isn't even sure how that would work when they are technically still within Tidepeak.
Hefting the jade and silver rod in one hand, he walks toward the courtyard's center, stopping just short of the edge of the shallow pool. Anticipation makes his pulse tick faster, and he looks up to find Yussa again, keeping himself aware of his position. "With your permission, Master Errenis." Though he speaks softly, his voice carries easily across the courtyard, quiet but for the bubble of the fountain.
As many times as Caleb has glimpsed this courtyard from other rooms, he has never had cause to visit it before. That the space is larger than the width of the tower itself, not to mention open to the night sky above, should be impossible. But there is some powerful and curious magic in the stones of Tidepeak that responds to its master's will, and even the impossible can exist here without fuss.
Even more intrigued by the concept of a shifting magical tower than the average wizard, Caleb will never stop finding that utterly fascinating.
"Ja, this will do nicely." Most of the courtyard is unobstructed, and while it probably isn't big enough for him to spread his wings, that is a moot point, as he isn't planning to fly anywhere. He isn't even sure how that would work when they are technically still within Tidepeak.
Hefting the jade and silver rod in one hand, he walks toward the courtyard's center, stopping just short of the edge of the shallow pool. Anticipation makes his pulse tick faster, and he looks up to find Yussa again, keeping himself aware of his position. "With your permission, Master Errenis." Though he speaks softly, his voice carries easily across the courtyard, quiet but for the bubble of the fountain.
Yussa moves to the far end of the courtyard and sits on the edge of the fountain.
He cannot help the anticipation he feels, both with the promise of seeing his student and lover perform an impressive arcane feat and the restrained wonder of being so near to a dragon. Perhaps it isn't quite the same, given that the beast will be his shapeshifted friend, but that doesn't really matter in the end.
Yussa doesn't bother to hide his pride as Caleb takes his position.
"I grant my leave, Master Widogast," he answers. "Whenever you are ready."
He cannot help the anticipation he feels, both with the promise of seeing his student and lover perform an impressive arcane feat and the restrained wonder of being so near to a dragon. Perhaps it isn't quite the same, given that the beast will be his shapeshifted friend, but that doesn't really matter in the end.
Yussa doesn't bother to hide his pride as Caleb takes his position.
"I grant my leave, Master Widogast," he answers. "Whenever you are ready."
As ever, Caleb is quick to follow Yussa's instructions. He sits as directed and waits patiently while the other man picks through his jewelry and selects several elegant pieces. They are just the finishing touch needed. Caleb's breath catches in his chest when Yussa turns toward him, faced with the full effect of every part of his ensemble pulled together.
"You are going to be taking my breath away all evening," he murmurs as his eyes slip closed, leaving himself entirely in Yussa's hands. He laces his fingers together between his knees so that he can fidget without obstructing anything.
As soon as the brush touches his face, it feels like a spell is being cast. Allowing his lover to paint on his skin is an entirely novel intimacy. He can feel how steady Yussa's hand is, the confidence with which he moves the brush. It was captivating to watch, and entrancing in a different way to experience. He dares not speak, or even breathe too deeply, lest a line go awry.
His curiosity about what he will look like will be satisfied soon enough. For now, he tries to appreciate the process.
"You are going to be taking my breath away all evening," he murmurs as his eyes slip closed, leaving himself entirely in Yussa's hands. He laces his fingers together between his knees so that he can fidget without obstructing anything.
As soon as the brush touches his face, it feels like a spell is being cast. Allowing his lover to paint on his skin is an entirely novel intimacy. He can feel how steady Yussa's hand is, the confidence with which he moves the brush. It was captivating to watch, and entrancing in a different way to experience. He dares not speak, or even breathe too deeply, lest a line go awry.
His curiosity about what he will look like will be satisfied soon enough. For now, he tries to appreciate the process.
Yussa is careful as he works. He uses a different brush to lightly smudge some of the liner along Caleb's eyelids after he applies it.
"Open your eyes, look up," he instructs softly, waiting for Caleb to do as he says. Applying the lower line requires a different kind of care, but Yussa is as efficient as ever. He smudges those too, though not as much, keeping the look more crisp. The kohl applied, he plucks up a different brush to add a sheen of gold powder at the inner corners of Caleb's eyes, sweeping up into the darker smudges on his eyelids.
He sits back to examine his work and makes a soft, satisfied sound. Caleb will not be the only one distracted all evening.
"Take a look, what do you think? It's easy to correct anything you don't like."
Yussa finds the look enchanting. Caleb's vivid blue eyes are made more so by the addition of the darker lines and it is impossible not to notice them with the attention drawn there. The flicker of gold adds interest - and ties him yet again to his companion for the evening - without being too flashy or overwhelming.
"Open your eyes, look up," he instructs softly, waiting for Caleb to do as he says. Applying the lower line requires a different kind of care, but Yussa is as efficient as ever. He smudges those too, though not as much, keeping the look more crisp. The kohl applied, he plucks up a different brush to add a sheen of gold powder at the inner corners of Caleb's eyes, sweeping up into the darker smudges on his eyelids.
He sits back to examine his work and makes a soft, satisfied sound. Caleb will not be the only one distracted all evening.
"Take a look, what do you think? It's easy to correct anything you don't like."
Yussa finds the look enchanting. Caleb's vivid blue eyes are made more so by the addition of the darker lines and it is impossible not to notice them with the attention drawn there. The flicker of gold adds interest - and ties him yet again to his companion for the evening - without being too flashy or overwhelming.
When Yussa is finished, it is clear he is pleased with his work, which helps Caleb's nerves quite a bit. With his heart thudding against his ribs, he turns toward the mirror when invited to see for himself.
"Oh," he breathes, and watches his own expression change with surprise. His eyes are darkly outlined, and there is a subtle shimmer of gold powder swiped up from the inner corners over his lids. Both serve to emphasize the blue of his eyes, which stands out even more starkly than usual. It is all very understated, far from a dramatic change, but to Caleb there is a clear difference.
Turning his face left and right, the gold powder catches the light. It does please him to match Yussa in yet another way. He turns to his lover almost shyly, reaching for his nearest hand to give it a gentle squeeze. "I think that I was right to trust you, as ever."
While he can't imagine wearing it often, for attending a special occasion with Yussa, it feels good to make a little extra effort. "It looks nice. Better than I expected. Thank you."
"Oh," he breathes, and watches his own expression change with surprise. His eyes are darkly outlined, and there is a subtle shimmer of gold powder swiped up from the inner corners over his lids. Both serve to emphasize the blue of his eyes, which stands out even more starkly than usual. It is all very understated, far from a dramatic change, but to Caleb there is a clear difference.
Turning his face left and right, the gold powder catches the light. It does please him to match Yussa in yet another way. He turns to his lover almost shyly, reaching for his nearest hand to give it a gentle squeeze. "I think that I was right to trust you, as ever."
While he can't imagine wearing it often, for attending a special occasion with Yussa, it feels good to make a little extra effort. "It looks nice. Better than I expected. Thank you."
"Of course you were right to trust me. In matters of aesthetic and petty games among arcane practitioners, I have considerable experience." Yussa opens another box and, now that Caleb's makeup is done, he puts on the filigreed gold nail guards. He reaches up to gently drag the tips against Caleb's cheek and leans to give him a kiss. "I am for you tonight, Caleb Widogast. Whatever I can give, I will."
Another kiss with a smile lingering between them.
"But we should depart, I think. It is one thing to be fashionably late, another to disrupt the night's proceedings."
They should be seen arriving together rather than sneaking in after the festivities have started. Yussa rises slowly and absently smooths his clothes. He finds a cloak to wear, knowing the night air in Rexxentrum will be chilly to him, regardless of season. As much as he talks about being Caleb's armor tonight, he must don his own. He does not often attend social functions and that is by design. He knows his presence will make an impact given how elusive he is, and he is prepared to bear the brunt of it if he can. And there is a balance to find between bolstering the younger man and outshining him; he would prefer to avoid the latter.
He looks at himself in a floor-length mirror and takes a breath, then lets it go slowly. He is radiant. He will be the star in the deep blue of Caleb's sky.
"I am ready when you are," he says as he looks back at his lover.
Another kiss with a smile lingering between them.
"But we should depart, I think. It is one thing to be fashionably late, another to disrupt the night's proceedings."
They should be seen arriving together rather than sneaking in after the festivities have started. Yussa rises slowly and absently smooths his clothes. He finds a cloak to wear, knowing the night air in Rexxentrum will be chilly to him, regardless of season. As much as he talks about being Caleb's armor tonight, he must don his own. He does not often attend social functions and that is by design. He knows his presence will make an impact given how elusive he is, and he is prepared to bear the brunt of it if he can. And there is a balance to find between bolstering the younger man and outshining him; he would prefer to avoid the latter.
He looks at himself in a floor-length mirror and takes a breath, then lets it go slowly. He is radiant. He will be the star in the deep blue of Caleb's sky.
"I am ready when you are," he says as he looks back at his lover.
All right. He can't linger on Yussa's expression, how giddy it makes him feel, or he'll never be able to concentrate. His free hand weaves glyphs into the air above the rod he holds, and the words of the spell, descriptive and commanding, come naturally to his lips. The rod glows amber, as do his eyes. Caleb draws from the well of his arcane potential, pulls the power forth, and transmutes it--changing himself in the process.
The sensation of transformation, altering his body with magic, is familiar to him from his frequent use of Polymorph. He is used to becoming creatures larger, stronger, and fundamentally different from himself. But this spell allows him to keep his own mind when he does so--and not only that, but he also retains his capability to cast other spells. So when he settles into this new shape, huge and brimming with raw power, it is with complete self-awareness.
He is a dragon. Even with folded wings, he is long, sharp, electric--dangerous. His breath crackles within the barrel of his chest, and sparks dance between the daggers of his teeth. His deep royal blue scales catch the moonlight, and the heavy ridge of his brow is pierced through on one side by the jade and silver rod. Beneath, his eyes are the same afternoon-sky blue as his human body, though split with a thin, elongated reptilian pupil. His claws scrape the stone beneath them as he stretches, almost catlike, testing the movement of sleek, strong muscles. His long forked tongue darts out to taste the night air, and his great head swivels on his graceful neck to face Yussa--so much smaller. Delicate, lovely, half-exposed in nothing but that slip of fabric. The scent of sex clinging to him--on his skin, between his legs--is so much more evident now.
"Come closer, my friend," he speaks--his own voice, but much deeper, more resonant. Rumbling. "I am myself, still."
The sensation of transformation, altering his body with magic, is familiar to him from his frequent use of Polymorph. He is used to becoming creatures larger, stronger, and fundamentally different from himself. But this spell allows him to keep his own mind when he does so--and not only that, but he also retains his capability to cast other spells. So when he settles into this new shape, huge and brimming with raw power, it is with complete self-awareness.
He is a dragon. Even with folded wings, he is long, sharp, electric--dangerous. His breath crackles within the barrel of his chest, and sparks dance between the daggers of his teeth. His deep royal blue scales catch the moonlight, and the heavy ridge of his brow is pierced through on one side by the jade and silver rod. Beneath, his eyes are the same afternoon-sky blue as his human body, though split with a thin, elongated reptilian pupil. His claws scrape the stone beneath them as he stretches, almost catlike, testing the movement of sleek, strong muscles. His long forked tongue darts out to taste the night air, and his great head swivels on his graceful neck to face Yussa--so much smaller. Delicate, lovely, half-exposed in nothing but that slip of fabric. The scent of sex clinging to him--on his skin, between his legs--is so much more evident now.
"Come closer, my friend," he speaks--his own voice, but much deeper, more resonant. Rumbling. "I am myself, still."
It isn't the same as watching someone Polymorph. First, this is nothing someone with the knowledge of that spell could manage. Second, he knows that Caleb is in there, fully aware and retaining his intelligence, his ability to articulate himself, and his power. He remains still and placid as the beautiful dragon fills the courtyard with both its size and crackling energy. He can feel his heart beat faster, though his expression remains one of quiet pride as Caleb stretches.
Yussa waits for Caleb's invitation. When he has it, the archmage rises fluidly and crosses the courtyard as if he were draped in yards of fabric rather than barefoot and in nothing but a half-open kaftan. He moves with confidence, the master of his domain even if there is currently a blue dragon in the middle of it. Despite his excitement, his expression remains placid.
He stops before he is so close that meeting his lover's gaze would be awkward. Even so, he can feel the energy radiating off the creature before him and he can see Caleb in its familiar blue eyes. That familiarity brings with it a different sort of excitement and Yussa takes a breath, then lets it go slowly.
"Yes you are, and you are very magnificent," he says with a small, pleased smile. "How does it feel?"
Yussa waits for Caleb's invitation. When he has it, the archmage rises fluidly and crosses the courtyard as if he were draped in yards of fabric rather than barefoot and in nothing but a half-open kaftan. He moves with confidence, the master of his domain even if there is currently a blue dragon in the middle of it. Despite his excitement, his expression remains placid.
He stops before he is so close that meeting his lover's gaze would be awkward. Even so, he can feel the energy radiating off the creature before him and he can see Caleb in its familiar blue eyes. That familiarity brings with it a different sort of excitement and Yussa takes a breath, then lets it go slowly.
"Yes you are, and you are very magnificent," he says with a small, pleased smile. "How does it feel?"
Yussa wears his nightclothes as though adorned in elaborate silk robes, his grace and confidence unchanged. There is a low vibration in his throat, a sound Caleb hadn't intended to make, but which demonstrates how pleased he is as Yussa draws near. His head lowers to look at him.
Perhaps there is some level of draconic influence. Caleb is sure it wouldn't please him quite so much to be called magnificent in any other form, but he wants to preen like the proud creature he is. But Yussa's admiration would be intoxicating no matter his shape.
"Exhilarating," he answers honestly, nearly a growl. The end of his long tail flicks, then curls toward the bulk of his body. "Powerful."
His legs bend as he slowly lowers his body, putting his belly to the cool stone so that he can be nearer to Yussa's height. His eyelids lower, and his breath expels a low charge, a subtle prickling in the air. He could nudge Yussa's chest with the end of his snout, if he wanted. He is close enough.
"It feels like proving myself. Finally showing you what I am really capable of."
Perhaps there is some level of draconic influence. Caleb is sure it wouldn't please him quite so much to be called magnificent in any other form, but he wants to preen like the proud creature he is. But Yussa's admiration would be intoxicating no matter his shape.
"Exhilarating," he answers honestly, nearly a growl. The end of his long tail flicks, then curls toward the bulk of his body. "Powerful."
His legs bend as he slowly lowers his body, putting his belly to the cool stone so that he can be nearer to Yussa's height. His eyelids lower, and his breath expels a low charge, a subtle prickling in the air. He could nudge Yussa's chest with the end of his snout, if he wanted. He is close enough.
"It feels like proving myself. Finally showing you what I am really capable of."
Yussa would be surprised with a creature so complicated as a dragon if some aspect of its nature did not seep into Caleb's. A bit of pride and indulgence is warranted, besides. He keeps his eyes on the dragon's face as his tail curls closer. He can feel the static in the air and it makes him shiver.
Rather than waiting for Caleb to close the distance between them, Yussa lifts a hand and rests it lightly on the dragon's snout, right between his nostrils. The scales are warm beneath his touch; in truth, he had not known quite what to expect. Perhaps a white dragon would have had more of a chill, or perhaps not. He doesn't intend to go looking for any to find out.
"You certainly didn't need to do this to prove yourself, Master Widogast," he quips, not bothering to hide his warm amusement. "But it is very impressive none the less."
Caleb has already proven his talent a dozen times over, and Yussa has the privilege of being able to watch his progress and what brought him to this point. His hand moves, gently stroking higher before it slides back down again. He can't help the smirk that flickers across his mouth.
"Impressive, and you make a very handsome dragon."
Well, it's true. It's impossible to forget that somewhere beneath all of this is the man who has not only become a student and colleague, but his lover.
Rather than waiting for Caleb to close the distance between them, Yussa lifts a hand and rests it lightly on the dragon's snout, right between his nostrils. The scales are warm beneath his touch; in truth, he had not known quite what to expect. Perhaps a white dragon would have had more of a chill, or perhaps not. He doesn't intend to go looking for any to find out.
"You certainly didn't need to do this to prove yourself, Master Widogast," he quips, not bothering to hide his warm amusement. "But it is very impressive none the less."
Caleb has already proven his talent a dozen times over, and Yussa has the privilege of being able to watch his progress and what brought him to this point. His hand moves, gently stroking higher before it slides back down again. He can't help the smirk that flickers across his mouth.
"Impressive, and you make a very handsome dragon."
Well, it's true. It's impossible to forget that somewhere beneath all of this is the man who has not only become a student and colleague, but his lover.
As Yussa lightly strokes the warm scales of his snout, Caleb's eyes fall closed in contentment. Even small and careful as it is, the touch feels nice. They crack open again to catch the smirk that goes along with that particular comment. If Caleb could grin, he would. His amusement bleeds into his voice, at least.
"Handsome, too? That alone makes this worthwhile."
He is exceedingly gentle, mindful of the immense strength in every sinew of this body, as he nuzzles forward. Puffing warm, static-charged air over Yussa's skin, he pushes his snout against his chest with unmistakable affection. His tongue darts out to taste and scent both, far more sensitive than his nose. The forked tip flickers briefly against the bare skin between his lover's breasts, exposed by the many buttons left undone. There is the combined taste-smell sense of his soap, his perfume, his sweat. His own human sweat as well, their mingled arousal, and the lingering musk of sex, sweet and sharp. He knows from the scent on the air that Yussa has not bothered to clean away the spend still dripping from his cunt.
There is that rumble again in his throat, this time vibrating down through his wide chest. He might call it a purr for lack of any better way to categorize it. He has never known any lizard to purr, but then, most lizards don't breathe lightning either. Dragons are in their own category for many reasons.
"Handsome, too? That alone makes this worthwhile."
He is exceedingly gentle, mindful of the immense strength in every sinew of this body, as he nuzzles forward. Puffing warm, static-charged air over Yussa's skin, he pushes his snout against his chest with unmistakable affection. His tongue darts out to taste and scent both, far more sensitive than his nose. The forked tip flickers briefly against the bare skin between his lover's breasts, exposed by the many buttons left undone. There is the combined taste-smell sense of his soap, his perfume, his sweat. His own human sweat as well, their mingled arousal, and the lingering musk of sex, sweet and sharp. He knows from the scent on the air that Yussa has not bothered to clean away the spend still dripping from his cunt.
There is that rumble again in his throat, this time vibrating down through his wide chest. He might call it a purr for lack of any better way to categorize it. He has never known any lizard to purr, but then, most lizards don't breathe lightning either. Dragons are in their own category for many reasons.
Yussa laughs quietly as Caleb huffs an electric breath at him, sending a static tingle across his skin. Another shiver chases the first as a forked tongue flicks over bare skin. He lifts his other hand to lightly stroke over the side of Caleb's face, as far as he can reach.
He realizes that there's the faintest scent of ozone between and around them, the ever-present threat that Caleb could do more than produce static. Yussa trusts his lover not to lose control.
A brighter smile appears when he realizes the rumble he hears is something akin to a purr. He has never heard a dragon purr, but clearly their vocal cords are capable of the sound since Caleb is managing quite well. Yussa slowly pulls away to walk in a slow circle around the dragon in his courtyard, taking a moment to properly appreciate the size of him and to get a better look at a creature he may not otherwise see so close. Not a living one, anyway. He ends his circuit in front of Caleb again, arms folded loosely beneath his chest.
"I am quite impressed, Caleb Widogast. I knew there was little in the way of spellcraft I could give you that would provide an advantage when you have already learned so much."
He realizes that there's the faintest scent of ozone between and around them, the ever-present threat that Caleb could do more than produce static. Yussa trusts his lover not to lose control.
A brighter smile appears when he realizes the rumble he hears is something akin to a purr. He has never heard a dragon purr, but clearly their vocal cords are capable of the sound since Caleb is managing quite well. Yussa slowly pulls away to walk in a slow circle around the dragon in his courtyard, taking a moment to properly appreciate the size of him and to get a better look at a creature he may not otherwise see so close. Not a living one, anyway. He ends his circuit in front of Caleb again, arms folded loosely beneath his chest.
"I am quite impressed, Caleb Widogast. I knew there was little in the way of spellcraft I could give you that would provide an advantage when you have already learned so much."
Caleb remains mostly still as the other wizard examines him, resettling his wings and laying his head down on his front paws. The purring becomes softer, but continues. He likes having Yussa's appreciative gaze on him, being the object of his pride and approval. There are few things he enjoys more, whether dragon or human.
"There is always more to learn," he says, the bassy timbre of his voice helping it to carry even when he tries to speak quietly. "But it is true that turning into a dragon is likely sufficient to resolve most conflicts."
His draconic gaze focuses on the man before him, so small and unadorned. But he needs neither stature nor gilded finery for his presence to rival a dragon's. Who is the impressive one, really? It shouldn't be surprising that the warm, fluttering feeling in his stomach that Yussa gives him persists even in this form. His mind is unchanged, after all, and he loves him no less.
He stretches out his long neck, lifting his head and hooking it around him to draw him carefully closer in an approximation of an embrace. The tip of his nose brushes from between Yussa's shoulder blades up to the back of his neck. As he snuffles into his pale hair, he feels it lift with the pull of static electricity.
"There is always more to learn," he says, the bassy timbre of his voice helping it to carry even when he tries to speak quietly. "But it is true that turning into a dragon is likely sufficient to resolve most conflicts."
His draconic gaze focuses on the man before him, so small and unadorned. But he needs neither stature nor gilded finery for his presence to rival a dragon's. Who is the impressive one, really? It shouldn't be surprising that the warm, fluttering feeling in his stomach that Yussa gives him persists even in this form. His mind is unchanged, after all, and he loves him no less.
He stretches out his long neck, lifting his head and hooking it around him to draw him carefully closer in an approximation of an embrace. The tip of his nose brushes from between Yussa's shoulder blades up to the back of his neck. As he snuffles into his pale hair, he feels it lift with the pull of static electricity.
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