Don't be sorry. It all happened hundreds of years ago anyway.
[The kiss comes completely unexpected, making Aether blink, before the question is asked. Then he blushes so much more, small pout forming on his face.]
That's... not fair.
[He reaches up, softly brushing his thumb against the other's lower lip.]
[It's easy to pull him close and Aether smiles with a soft sigh.]
...I like it. A lot.
[He can't hide that fact. As if to support his claim, Aether shifts until their noses touch. His hand brushes against the other's cheek, then trails lightly along the ear and finally gentle fingers tangle into the hair. The traveler smiles warmly, face still so very red and he leans forward for another kiss, nice and slow.
His heart is loud in his chest even after they part and for a moment Aether doesn't say anything, his eyes closed.]
I guessed that you wanted to know more about me.
[He opens his eyes, expression apologetic.]
I'm not really used to talking about myself.
[Because he would always leave. He's just a traveler, after all.
He laughs softly again.]
But look... seeing my memories brought us much closer than I would've ever expected.
[ Aether's words followed by an affectionate gesture and that slow kiss are more than enough to make a bright red blush cover Noé's cheeks and spread as far as to the tips of his ears. ]
I'd love to get to know you better. In more traditional ways, that is... even if the taste of your blood is unforgettable.
[ What he doesn't say is that Aether's heart beating so fast is something he can sense when they're so close and he can almost taste his blood on his lips somehow. It's a bit embarrassing because he doesn't necessarily need to feed on people. ]
I can't show you my memories, but... I haven't even been to many places before in my life. But maybe if you're with me, that will change a little. I could join you in your search for your sister in this world.
[His cheeks grow bright red again and he glances aside. His head tilts to the side, as if he's about to offer his neck.]
If you like it so much, then... I don't mind. [He's weaker now, having lost some blood already. There are puncture wounds on his wrist and yet it's still not so bad. He trusts Noé and he knows the other wouldn't do anything that would put him at risk. He feels safe in his arms.]
And it's okay. I don't have to see your memories, but if you want to tell me stories from your life I will be happy to listen. And I will be more than happy to travel with you.
[A journey with a loving companion will be surely so much easier. Aether's heart warms in his chest at the thought.]
... You already make me so happy. [He laughs softly.]
[ The sight that has just unfolded in front of his eyes makes it really tempting to just bite into Aether's neck and taste some of his blood once again. However, it might be a bit too much.
Nonetheless, Noé leans in... and at the last moment plants a couple of kisses along Aether's neck rather than sinking his fangs into the delicate skin. ]
But I promised you sweets. And sweets are only slightly less good compared to your blood.
[ Not to mention that they can share stories while eating cakes and drinking tea. ]
Do I? [ Noé blinks, not expecting to hear such a remark. ] I... I hope I can make you happy everyday, then.
[When Noé leans in, Aether expects to feel teeth on his neck, so it catches him complete off guard when instead the sensitive skin is graced with tender kisses. The traveler gasps softly, his body shaken with a jolt of pleasure and he presses closer to the other.]
...Or we could stay like this. [He mutters in response, face bright red, but truth to be told he doesn't want to go anywhere.] I... want to stay close. [Now he leans in to press a kiss to the other's neck, careful and sweet.
Then he realizes that maybe this is not what Noé wants to do, so he offers shyly:]
[ It might have taken Noé a while to understand what Aether wants right now, but it looks like it has finally sunk in. ]
I'll get you something sweet later. [ That gentle kiss brings out a bright blush that spreads across the vampire's cheeks. ] So we can stay here as long as you only want.
[ He wraps his arms around Aether and pulls him into an embrace, feeling quite happy himself. ]
Have you... told anyone? About... anything?
[ While it might not be clear, Noé means travelling across worlds. ]
[Aether is happy to be pulled closer and he rests against the other, head on the shoulder, smile soft on his face. His arms close around Noé, returning the embrace. Everything feels warm.]
Okay. [He murmurs, pressing another kiss to Noé's neck, this time closer to the ear. This kind of affection is new to him, but at the same time he feels comfortable. Like everything is just the way it should be.
The question makes him blink though and at first Aether is not sure what Noé means, his mind completely occupied with the other's warmth presence. But then he realizes.]
Ah... Well, Paimon knows. Some people suspect it and tried to confront me about it, but... I always tried to avoid that topic.
[The less they know the better... or at least that's how it felt to him.]
[ Noé's expression changes drastically—with his eyebrows burrowed, he takes a moment to process that piece of information before adding bluntly: ]
If someone tries that again, just let me know. This is who you are and there's nothing wrong with it.
[ While he's not meaning to hurt anybody with that kind of attitude, Noé will definitely give them a piece of his mind. ]
But... you still allowed me to drink your blood. I hope it's not because I kept mentioning it. Actually... that ability of mine, reading memories... is something I always tried to avoid, too.
No, it's not like that. They don't think there's something wrong with that... They're just curious about who I am and where I come from, but... I don't think they need to know.
[It's a burden, he thinks, knowing about the many worlds, knowing that Aether's journey started centuries ago and it will not end anytime soon. Aether thinks some things are better left unknown.]
Hm... You tried to avoid it, because it's not good to see someone's memories without their permission? Well, you don't have to worry about it when it comes to me.
If someone bothers you about that though, just let me know, okay? Curiosity is one thing, but they should still be respectful.
[ All things considered, he has no right to scold inquisitive people as he definitely belongs to that group as well. However, bothering someone else just because one wants to know isn't right either. ]
I might see things you don't want anyone to see, though. [ Instead of accepting Aether's answer, Noé warns him and becomes silent for a while. ] I'm sorry. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable around me.
[ It might seem that the vampire is just a people pleaser, but there have been a lot of issues with that ability, people turning their back on him included. But he decides to trust Aether which is precisely the reason why he changes the topic the next moment: ]
[He presses closer, shaking his head, trying to make the other know that all is well.]
I don't have anything to hide from you anymore.
[It's really just that simple. He knows it'll be all okay, because Noé accepts him.] I only hope my memories won't burden you. [That's really the only thing he fears.
Then there's a change of subject. Aether blinks, looking up at his companion. His cheeks dust with pink.]
Sure... [He smiles softly.] I'd love to go on a date with you.
[ Even if Noé might not be aware of Aether's concerns regarding his memories, hopefully his words will be reassuring enough for the traveller. ]
I know a few really nice spots in Paris.
[ While they are nice indeed, they might not be suitable for a date. For now, however, Noé doesn't think about it at all. The time for that will come when he asks a friend for advice. ]
I want to show you as much as possible before we leave to look for your sister.
[ He's going to ask Domi around about friend dates for sure. ]
All the time in the world... [ There's a hint of sadness in Noé's smile. ] I'll take you there! But do you think that we need to hold hands all the time? I've seen a lot of couples do that in the park.
[ Actually... he's already looking for advice, it seems. But why is he's asking Aether? It is a mystery. ]
[ Noé relaxes under Aether's touch and doesn't hesitate to take him up on that offer. Rather than just holding the other's hand, the vampire presses his thumb against the opened palm and gently rubs it. ]
What else can I do...?
[ He seems to be stuck in this weird state of craving something really bad, even though he's not being able to pinpoint what does he really want. ]
[The question along with the action catches Aether a bit off-guard. It doesn't help that he's already dizzy because of their confessions and because of the blood that he's lost before. Blushing, he tries to think of something to say.]
We could... just lie down, together, close. You could... kiss me more...
[ After Aether has said it out loud it becomes clear that he wants the same thing. It's quite funny that verbalizing really helped him realize it. ]
Let's go to my room, then.
[ His heart is racing in his chest, yet Noé retains a fairly neutral tone. The only thing indicating his excitement are his bright red cheeks. Since Aether felt a little weak earlier, he picks the traveler up under his knees and rests the other hand on his back to bridal carry him there.
Who needs warnings for that kind of thing, anyways. ]
[Aether gasps when he's suddenly lifted. His face at this point looks very much like a ripe tomato, blush reaching the tips of his ears, while his heart is beating like mad in his chest. Everything is happening so fast!]
Y-You... could give me a warning at least!
[He reaches up with one hand, gently pinching Noé's cheek while pouting slightly.
Despite that he doesn't move otherwise, letting the other take him wherever he wants. He's excited and slightly nervous both.]
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[The kiss comes completely unexpected, making Aether blink, before the question is asked. Then he blushes so much more, small pout forming on his face.]
That's... not fair.
[He reaches up, softly brushing his thumb against the other's lower lip.]
You... you're warm.
[...And that's not a taste.]
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[ Of course Noé points that out. And bends forward for another kiss because that will clearly help Aether figure out the answer. ]
You're getting warmer, too.
[ More embarrassing comments incoming. ]
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...If I didn't know better, I would say that you're messing with me.
[He knows Noé is not that kind of person, but to think that he is this clueless about what he's doing to Aether...!]
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Maybe you'll figure it out later. The most important thing is whether you like it or not.
[ And from what Noé has seen, it seems that Aether enjoyed the kisses. ]
I was hoping that seeing your memories will bring us a little closer, to be honest.
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...I like it. A lot.
[He can't hide that fact. As if to support his claim, Aether shifts until their noses touch. His hand brushes against the other's cheek, then trails lightly along the ear and finally gentle fingers tangle into the hair. The traveler smiles warmly, face still so very red and he leans forward for another kiss, nice and slow.
His heart is loud in his chest even after they part and for a moment Aether doesn't say anything, his eyes closed.]
I guessed that you wanted to know more about me.
[He opens his eyes, expression apologetic.]
I'm not really used to talking about myself.
[Because he would always leave. He's just a traveler, after all.
He laughs softly again.]
But look... seeing my memories brought us much closer than I would've ever expected.
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I'd love to get to know you better. In more traditional ways, that is... even if the taste of your blood is unforgettable.
[ What he doesn't say is that Aether's heart beating so fast is something he can sense when they're so close and he can almost taste his blood on his lips somehow. It's a bit embarrassing because he doesn't necessarily need to feed on people. ]
I can't show you my memories, but... I haven't even been to many places before in my life. But maybe if you're with me, that will change a little. I could join you in your search for your sister in this world.
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If you like it so much, then... I don't mind. [He's weaker now, having lost some blood already. There are puncture wounds on his wrist and yet it's still not so bad. He trusts Noé and he knows the other wouldn't do anything that would put him at risk. He feels safe in his arms.]
And it's okay. I don't have to see your memories, but if you want to tell me stories from your life I will be happy to listen. And I will be more than happy to travel with you.
[A journey with a loving companion will be surely so much easier. Aether's heart warms in his chest at the thought.]
... You already make me so happy. [He laughs softly.]
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[ The sight that has just unfolded in front of his eyes makes it really tempting to just bite into Aether's neck and taste some of his blood once again. However, it might be a bit too much.
Nonetheless, Noé leans in... and at the last moment plants a couple of kisses along Aether's neck rather than sinking his fangs into the delicate skin. ]
But I promised you sweets. And sweets are only slightly less good compared to your blood.
[ Not to mention that they can share stories while eating cakes and drinking tea. ]
Do I? [ Noé blinks, not expecting to hear such a remark. ] I... I hope I can make you happy everyday, then.
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...Or we could stay like this. [He mutters in response, face bright red, but truth to be told he doesn't want to go anywhere.] I... want to stay close. [Now he leans in to press a kiss to the other's neck, careful and sweet.
Then he realizes that maybe this is not what Noé wants to do, so he offers shyly:]
...Just for a little longer.
[His eyes close.]
Being with you makes me happy.
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I'll get you something sweet later. [ That gentle kiss brings out a bright blush that spreads across the vampire's cheeks. ] So we can stay here as long as you only want.
[ He wraps his arms around Aether and pulls him into an embrace, feeling quite happy himself. ]
Have you... told anyone? About... anything?
[ While it might not be clear, Noé means travelling across worlds. ]
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Okay. [He murmurs, pressing another kiss to Noé's neck, this time closer to the ear. This kind of affection is new to him, but at the same time he feels comfortable. Like everything is just the way it should be.
The question makes him blink though and at first Aether is not sure what Noé means, his mind completely occupied with the other's warmth presence. But then he realizes.]
Ah... Well, Paimon knows. Some people suspect it and tried to confront me about it, but... I always tried to avoid that topic.
[The less they know the better... or at least that's how it felt to him.]
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[ Noé's expression changes drastically—with his eyebrows burrowed, he takes a moment to process that piece of information before adding bluntly: ]
If someone tries that again, just let me know. This is who you are and there's nothing wrong with it.
[ While he's not meaning to hurt anybody with that kind of attitude, Noé will definitely give them a piece of his mind. ]
But... you still allowed me to drink your blood. I hope it's not because I kept mentioning it. Actually... that ability of mine, reading memories... is something I always tried to avoid, too.
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[Aether shakes his head.]
No, it's not like that. They don't think there's something wrong with that... They're just curious about who I am and where I come from, but... I don't think they need to know.
[It's a burden, he thinks, knowing about the many worlds, knowing that Aether's journey started centuries ago and it will not end anytime soon. Aether thinks some things are better left unknown.]
Hm... You tried to avoid it, because it's not good to see someone's memories without their permission? Well, you don't have to worry about it when it comes to me.
[He sighs and relaxes against the other again.]
I know it's fine if it's you.
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[ All things considered, he has no right to scold inquisitive people as he definitely belongs to that group as well. However, bothering someone else just because one wants to know isn't right either. ]
I might see things you don't want anyone to see, though. [ Instead of accepting Aether's answer, Noé warns him and becomes silent for a while. ] I'm sorry. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable around me.
[ It might seem that the vampire is just a people pleaser, but there have been a lot of issues with that ability, people turning their back on him included. But he decides to trust Aether which is precisely the reason why he changes the topic the next moment: ]
I want to take you out on a date.
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[He presses closer, shaking his head, trying to make the other know that all is well.]
I don't have anything to hide from you anymore.
[It's really just that simple. He knows it'll be all okay, because Noé accepts him.] I only hope my memories won't burden you. [That's really the only thing he fears.
Then there's a change of subject. Aether blinks, looking up at his companion. His cheeks dust with pink.]
Sure... [He smiles softly.] I'd love to go on a date with you.
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[ Even if Noé might not be aware of Aether's concerns regarding his memories, hopefully his words will be reassuring enough for the traveller. ]
I know a few really nice spots in Paris.
[ While they are nice indeed, they might not be suitable for a date. For now, however, Noé doesn't think about it at all. The time for that will come when he asks a friend for advice. ]
I want to show you as much as possible before we leave to look for your sister.
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But there's no need to worry about that now. Aether smiles and nods.]
Let's go. I'd love to see all those places.
[As a curious traveler, he would never miss a chance to see something new.]
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Have you ever been on a date before?
[ Someone will explain to him that he's being way too direct...eventually. ]
I want to try doing as many things as you like, I think.
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Aether blinks, blush soft on his cheeks but at this point he figures that this is just how the other is.]
No... Not really. Unless you count hanging out with friends as dates.
[He smiles a little.]
And I think we have all the time in the world to do whatever we both want... But first I want to see those places you've mentioned!
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Domiaround about friend dates for sure. ]All the time in the world... [ There's a hint of sadness in Noé's smile. ] I'll take you there! But do you think that we need to hold hands all the time? I've seen a lot of couples do that in the park.
[ Actually... he's already looking for advice, it seems. But why is he's asking Aether? It is a mystery. ]
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We don't have to hold hands all the time... You can take my hand whenever you like though.
[They'll figure it out together.]
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What else can I do...?
[ He seems to be stuck in this weird state of craving something really bad, even though he's not being able to pinpoint what does he really want. ]
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[The question along with the action catches Aether a bit off-guard. It doesn't help that he's already dizzy because of their confessions and because of the blood that he's lost before. Blushing, he tries to think of something to say.]
We could... just lie down, together, close. You could... kiss me more...
[He slowly averts his gaze.]
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Let's go to my room, then.
[ His heart is racing in his chest, yet Noé retains a fairly neutral tone. The only thing indicating his excitement are his bright red cheeks. Since Aether felt a little weak earlier, he picks the traveler up under his knees and rests the other hand on his back to bridal carry him there.
Who needs warnings for that kind of thing, anyways. ]
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Y-You... could give me a warning at least!
[He reaches up with one hand, gently pinching Noé's cheek while pouting slightly.
Despite that he doesn't move otherwise, letting the other take him wherever he wants. He's excited and slightly nervous both.]
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