[Their trip to Kirkwall had been a long one, and Kirkwall served to be just as much of a disappointment to Solas as Lad had predicted. It was Kirkwall after all.
He'd at least managed to get the two of them a room before they caught the notice of any templars, or too many humans even. Not the greatest inn around, but better than the streets of Kirkwall at night. And there was a bed, a rare privilege for a Dalish elf, but before he could indulge he had to tend to their supplies.
He took off his coat and let it rest over the back of a nearby chair while he leaned over a desk, organizing supplies. Like the several bundles of herbs he insisted on collecting during the trip. One never knew when they would be needed after all.]
[ Kirkwall was a huge disappointment. From the disgusting city to the awful treatment of mages and elves both. Ladanelan was the rare shining spot in it all. How did the other elf manage to stay so damn cheerful with how this world was?
Solas had helped to do what could be done in the alienage before nightfall came upon them and Ladanelan insisted they go back to their rented room. It had been done with reluctance on his part though more could be done when there was light out and...
And well, if he was honest with himself, he enjoyed his time alone with Lad.
He watches as the elf works on their supplies. A necessary task, but far from what Solas would rather they be doing. After what they had seen this day, they could both stand for some enjoyment before sleep overcame them. With a gentle ease, he presses himself lightly against Lad's back and leans down enough to rest his chin on Lad's shoulder, peering over at the man's work. ]
[He felt his heart flutter when Solas came close, and he turned to look at him. Whatever he was supposed to be doing already lost from his mind the moment he felt Solas' hair graze his cheek. He would have never thought Solas to be so affectionate so quickly, but he was hardly complaining. He was sweet in his own way, and it felt like privilege to get to see this side of him.
A little chuckle escaped him as he set down the herbs he had almost started to organize. The supplies weren't going anywhere, and who knew if Solas' mood would change, so he'd rather spend his time with the object of his affection.]
[ That was as easy as he suspected it would be. Lad's eagerness was enticing and charming in a way Solas normally didn't encounter. Solas had no idea how much longer he would be here, far from home, but Lad was becoming a welcomed companion.
He laughs lightly in Lad's ear before pulling back just enough to kiss the tip. ]
I will have to make the distraction worth it then. [ Not that he's in any hurry as he wraps his arms loosely around the other man's waist and teases Lad's ear with his teeth. ]
[Ladanelan laughs in turn, Solas' kiss tickled and at the same time sent a shiver down his spine. He let his arms sit over Solas' around his middle, he let himself bask in the warmth of the other. He could stay like this for days if he could... well he had on the ride over, but he had yet to tire of it.
Then he felt teeth on his ear and the hint of warmth from Solas' mouth and he let out a quiet gasp in surprise. Not from being startled, but rather the feeling it stirred in his loins. He liked it.
He melted into the attention and leaned back against Solas, letting him do as he pleased with him.]
[ He squeezes Lad close for a moment before running his hands down his abdomen as if straightening out the man's shirt. Lad was always responsive, no matter how little Solas did.
Solas nuzzles Lad's ear and before they do anything else he says, ]
If you want me to stop... [ All Lad had to do was say the word and Solas would pull back. They hadn't gone far with one another, but he knew of Lad's inexperience. This was something he could be patient in. ]
[He bit his lip and smiled as Solas' hands slid downward. Were they going further this time? The thought of Solas' hands moving further down, or even just the thought of Solas kissing his neck and holding him close again, left him shifting his hips restlessly. He was desperate to experience Solas' touch, however he was willing to give it.]
I don't. [He gets that out of the way quickly, maybe a little too quick, but Solas pulling away right now would be a form of slow torture. He was sure of it.] Please, keep going, vhenan.
You say that now, [ he murmurs, breath warm on the man's ear.
Much to Lad's concern, Solas does pull back though not as a form of slow torture. His hand reaches to take one in his and he turns him around so he can press Lad's back into the desk. His free hand rests against the edge of the desk while the other holds Lad's as Solas kisses him, gentle but firm. ]
[Lad pouts as Solas pulls back, but is easily appeased when Solas takes his hand. He follows Solas' guidance back to the desk, and melts into the kiss. He laced his fingers with Solas', and raised his free hand to tentatively touch his cheek, just grazing him with his fingers first then moving to place his palm to his cheek. It was warm and soft, and so nice.
He smiled into the kiss, even breaking it for a moment to laugh a little, but he was quick to delve into it again after. Solas' breath tickled a little.]
[ The laughter is... better than good. When has Solas ever been the source of laughter? It's been far too long and he finds himself enjoying the sound.
He presses more firmly against Lad, hips against his as he shifts and smiles into the kiss. This was simple, slower than he normally went with relationships he knew would be short-lived, but it was comforting in a way. ]
What do you want, vhenan? [ he murmurs, kissing his way from the corner of Lad's mouth to the crook of his neck. ]
[Lad pulls their intertwined hands close, so their hands are over his heart. His other hand lovingly ran through Solas' hair as he trailed his kisses away.]
I want- I want... [Dammit he didn't know what he wanted. Why did Solas have to ask the virgin what he wanted? He didn't know, and it was hard to try and think with Solas' hips pressing against his own, and the sweet kisses on his neck.] I want you Solas, I'm happy with you.
[ He had asked the virgin in hopes of getting some preference, but the response makes him laugh into Lad's neck. ]
So you would like me to stand here with you all night? [ he teases, nipping playfully at the crook of his neck. A hand rests on Lad's waist, fingers pressing firmly into him. ]
[How was he supposed to answer that? He wouldn't mind just standing here with Solas all night kissing but at the same time he wanted more.]
Well.. yes- no... I mean- [He let out a noise of frustration, but it was quickly cut short by a pleased gasp when Solas started to nip at his neck. It triggered a premature jerk of hips against Solas', it served to satisfy the growing urge he had for closeness, at least for now.] I don't know... I've never done this before Solas!
[Ladanelan was expecting to be offered to one of Mythal's people that day, but he wasn't expecting it to be someone as high ranking as Fen'harel. Not until he was informed by one of the other servants that it was Fen'harel who had tended to his wounds previously. It wasn't often he looked forward to his service, he never really knew who he would be offered to, but now he felt as though he could return a kindness to the stranger with the gentle hands.
So he walked into the room, a small basket of massage oils and... other things tucked under his arm, and there he found Solas... who looked none too pleased at the moment. Still, he offered him a warm friendly smile, and when he spoke his tone was light and playful.]
Well you certainly don't look happy to see me again. I promise I haven't made anyone else angry today- at least not yet. You don't have to heal me this time.
[ When Mythal had told him that Sylaise was offering a gift of one of her servants for his entertainment later, he had scowled. A scowl that quickly deflated in the face of his own Evanuris' stern gaze. It was clear that however he chose to 'use' this 'gift' would be his own decision, but Mythal expected him to accept it graciously as one befitting of his rank.
To his surprise, making a choice had been simple. The man he had seen stand up for a misstep of one of Mythal's servants served in this position. He had been charming, if clumsy, and while Solas did not want to force himself on the man, this would at least give him a chance to see if the wounds had healed.
So he waits in his room, unsure of how he should be feeling about his incoming visitor. When Lad arrives, he sighs lightly and stands, taking in the other man. Still charming in a way entirely unique to his own and Solas could only guess at what he had brought with him. ]
Have you healed well? [ This was a simpler place to start than jumping to the true meaning of this visit. ]
[It was actually sweet to see the other's concern for him, and while he could tell the other was being sincere he could also tell he was dodging the reason he was here. Solas was as tense as a tightly wound spring, and he could almost feel the discomfort radiating off of him.
Not like it was the first time he had seen this, he knew how to handle it. And the first thing was just simply conversation. It was nice in this case because he could hold himself a bit more naturally than usual. He briefly looked down bashfully, and tucked some hair behind his ear out of nervous habit. This may be his duty but talking and serving someone he was actually fond of was new. When he looked back up at Solas he was smiling, feeling rather privileged to have someone show such concern for him.]
I have, thank you. It was kind of you, it's rare to see someone worry so much over someone of my standing.
[ He smiles lightly as he watches Lad. Charming and, in a rare use of this word for him, adorable. Did he even want to be here or was he simply acting friendly out of practice? It was hard to tell. ]
You helped ours, it was only right I repay that debt. [ And knowing that the man has had the chance to recover somewhat makes him feel better, at least. All that work hadn't been undone by another seeking to harm him. ]
[He set his basket on a nearby table and moved to the bed to sit down on the end, next to where Solas had been sitting upon his arrival. He hoped setting the basket down would make it easier for Solas to join him without feeling like there was any expectation.]
Still, I never expected one of your station to concern themselves with the matter of an injured slave. You have a good heart, I can see why you are Mythal's favored.
It is something she wishes to cultivate for those in her service, [ he replies, gaze shifting from the basket to Lad.
Never mind that Mythal's desires for Solas to be more compassionate and caring hadn't worked the majority of the time, particularly for those Solas considered outside his jurisdiction. Lad's case had been unique and he respected the man for having thrown himself in the line of fire without a thought.
There's a second of hesitation before Solas sits down on the edge of the bed as well, keeping space between him and Lad. ]
I hope you have not run into further trouble because of it.
I assumed as much, it's why I stepped in, I don't think your servant had been struck before, if I could keep them ignorant to what that's like, then it was worth it.
[He leaned back on his hands and crossed his legs at the ankles, being casual seemed to be working thus far. He found Solas' hesitance to be rather cute actually.]
I always run into trouble one way or another, but I've got the privilege that I am not allowed to be punished in any way that would leave a scar, so it's not so bad.
[ Including Lad himself, he thinks with a small sigh. Sylaise was not the worst of the Evanuris, not by any stretch of the imagination, but he had his list of grievances against her as he did with most others. One day he would be able to do something about them though such talk would earn him disapproval and skepticism from Mythal. ]
[He shook his head but didn't sound overly bothered by his predicament as he elaborated on it. It was all he knew, so why would he complain? In many ways he was fortunate, he knew with other Evanuris he'd likely wind up as some test subject for spells, or perhaps fuel for them.]
No, it's not, I'm just useless when it comes to doing anything else. My pretty face is my only asset, I'm not usually requested by those of such a high ranking.
[He continues with a laugh.]
I ramble when I'm nervous, so it's usually best if I'm not to serve anyone that wouldn't take offense.
[Which also at least pointed out that he was comfortable now.]
My lady Evanuris was approached by the Hearthkeeper. She offered this as a gift and...
[ He shrugs. Mythal had seen no reason to reject it and thus it fell on him to make sure he accepted it with grace. When Lad's name had been among those offered, he at least had a familiar and pleasant face to request. ]
I find it hard to believe you don't have more to offer. [ Whether it was his compassion or some other hidden skill. Lad had to have more than his beauty to offer. ]
[And he had picked him. A bit of color found its way too his cheeks, between that and the flattery, he was getting a little bashful. No one had said such a thing to him before and he wasn't even certain how to respond. There was a pleasant feeling in his stomach, a warmth that melted and made it easier to relax. This felt strangely backwards, he was the one that was supposed to make Solas feel good, not the other way around.
He laughed.]
You are very kind to say so, but aside from what I have been taught to please, I'm afraid I truly am not good at much else.
How are you to know if you have not been given the chance?
[ A genuine question and one he's curious about as he watches Lad. The blush caught his attention and he can't help but smile. The man clearly tried to do what he could with what he was given and Solas found that alone worthy of respect. ]
[Trash the first]
He'd at least managed to get the two of them a room before they caught the notice of any templars, or too many humans even. Not the greatest inn around, but better than the streets of Kirkwall at night. And there was a bed, a rare privilege for a Dalish elf, but before he could indulge he had to tend to their supplies.
He took off his coat and let it rest over the back of a nearby chair while he leaned over a desk, organizing supplies. Like the several bundles of herbs he insisted on collecting during the trip. One never knew when they would be needed after all.]
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Solas had helped to do what could be done in the alienage before nightfall came upon them and Ladanelan insisted they go back to their rented room. It had been done with reluctance on his part though more could be done when there was light out and...
And well, if he was honest with himself, he enjoyed his time alone with Lad.
He watches as the elf works on their supplies. A necessary task, but far from what Solas would rather they be doing. After what they had seen this day, they could both stand for some enjoyment before sleep overcame them. With a gentle ease, he presses himself lightly against Lad's back and leans down enough to rest his chin on Lad's shoulder, peering over at the man's work. ]
Are you almost finished?
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A little chuckle escaped him as he set down the herbs he had almost started to organize. The supplies weren't going anywhere, and who knew if Solas' mood would change, so he'd rather spend his time with the object of his affection.]
It's nothing I can't just do tomorrow.
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He laughs lightly in Lad's ear before pulling back just enough to kiss the tip. ]
I will have to make the distraction worth it then. [ Not that he's in any hurry as he wraps his arms loosely around the other man's waist and teases Lad's ear with his teeth. ]
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Then he felt teeth on his ear and the hint of warmth from Solas' mouth and he let out a quiet gasp in surprise. Not from being startled, but rather the feeling it stirred in his loins. He liked it.
He melted into the attention and leaned back against Solas, letting him do as he pleased with him.]
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Solas nuzzles Lad's ear and before they do anything else he says, ]
If you want me to stop... [ All Lad had to do was say the word and Solas would pull back. They hadn't gone far with one another, but he knew of Lad's inexperience. This was something he could be patient in. ]
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I don't. [He gets that out of the way quickly, maybe a little too quick, but Solas pulling away right now would be a form of slow torture. He was sure of it.] Please, keep going, vhenan.
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Much to Lad's concern, Solas does pull back though not as a form of slow torture. His hand reaches to take one in his and he turns him around so he can press Lad's back into the desk. His free hand rests against the edge of the desk while the other holds Lad's as Solas kisses him, gentle but firm. ]
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He smiled into the kiss, even breaking it for a moment to laugh a little, but he was quick to delve into it again after. Solas' breath tickled a little.]
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He presses more firmly against Lad, hips against his as he shifts and smiles into the kiss. This was simple, slower than he normally went with relationships he knew would be short-lived, but it was comforting in a way. ]
What do you want, vhenan? [ he murmurs, kissing his way from the corner of Lad's mouth to the crook of his neck. ]
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I want- I want... [Dammit he didn't know what he wanted. Why did Solas have to ask the virgin what he wanted? He didn't know, and it was hard to try and think with Solas' hips pressing against his own, and the sweet kisses on his neck.] I want you Solas, I'm happy with you.
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So you would like me to stand here with you all night? [ he teases, nipping playfully at the crook of his neck. A hand rests on Lad's waist, fingers pressing firmly into him. ]
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Well.. yes- no... I mean- [He let out a noise of frustration, but it was quickly cut short by a pleased gasp when Solas started to nip at his neck. It triggered a premature jerk of hips against Solas', it served to satisfy the growing urge he had for closeness, at least for now.] I don't know... I've never done this before Solas!
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[Trash the Second]
So he walked into the room, a small basket of massage oils and... other things tucked under his arm, and there he found Solas... who looked none too pleased at the moment. Still, he offered him a warm friendly smile, and when he spoke his tone was light and playful.]
Well you certainly don't look happy to see me again. I promise I haven't made anyone else angry today- at least not yet. You don't have to heal me this time.
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To his surprise, making a choice had been simple. The man he had seen stand up for a misstep of one of Mythal's servants served in this position. He had been charming, if clumsy, and while Solas did not want to force himself on the man, this would at least give him a chance to see if the wounds had healed.
So he waits in his room, unsure of how he should be feeling about his incoming visitor. When Lad arrives, he sighs lightly and stands, taking in the other man. Still charming in a way entirely unique to his own and Solas could only guess at what he had brought with him. ]
Have you healed well? [ This was a simpler place to start than jumping to the true meaning of this visit. ]
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Not like it was the first time he had seen this, he knew how to handle it. And the first thing was just simply conversation. It was nice in this case because he could hold himself a bit more naturally than usual. He briefly looked down bashfully, and tucked some hair behind his ear out of nervous habit. This may be his duty but talking and serving someone he was actually fond of was new. When he looked back up at Solas he was smiling, feeling rather privileged to have someone show such concern for him.]
I have, thank you. It was kind of you, it's rare to see someone worry so much over someone of my standing.
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You helped ours, it was only right I repay that debt. [ And knowing that the man has had the chance to recover somewhat makes him feel better, at least. All that work hadn't been undone by another seeking to harm him. ]
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Still, I never expected one of your station to concern themselves with the matter of an injured slave. You have a good heart, I can see why you are Mythal's favored.
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Never mind that Mythal's desires for Solas to be more compassionate and caring hadn't worked the majority of the time, particularly for those Solas considered outside his jurisdiction. Lad's case had been unique and he respected the man for having thrown himself in the line of fire without a thought.
There's a second of hesitation before Solas sits down on the edge of the bed as well, keeping space between him and Lad. ]
I hope you have not run into further trouble because of it.
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[He leaned back on his hands and crossed his legs at the ankles, being casual seemed to be working thus far. He found Solas' hesitance to be rather cute actually.]
I always run into trouble one way or another, but I've got the privilege that I am not allowed to be punished in any way that would leave a scar, so it's not so bad.
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[ Including Lad himself, he thinks with a small sigh. Sylaise was not the worst of the Evanuris, not by any stretch of the imagination, but he had his list of grievances against her as he did with most others. One day he would be able to do something about them though such talk would earn him disapproval and skepticism from Mythal. ]
Is this a service you chose?
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No, it's not, I'm just useless when it comes to doing anything else. My pretty face is my only asset, I'm not usually requested by those of such a high ranking.
[He continues with a laugh.]
I ramble when I'm nervous, so it's usually best if I'm not to serve anyone that wouldn't take offense.
[Which also at least pointed out that he was comfortable now.]
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[ He shrugs. Mythal had seen no reason to reject it and thus it fell on him to make sure he accepted it with grace. When Lad's name had been among those offered, he at least had a familiar and pleasant face to request. ]
I find it hard to believe you don't have more to offer. [ Whether it was his compassion or some other hidden skill. Lad had to have more than his beauty to offer. ]
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He laughed.]
You are very kind to say so, but aside from what I have been taught to please, I'm afraid I truly am not good at much else.
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[ A genuine question and one he's curious about as he watches Lad. The blush caught his attention and he can't help but smile. The man clearly tried to do what he could with what he was given and Solas found that alone worthy of respect. ]
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