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Caleb Widogast.
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: The Undoing of Wizards :

Date: 2023-07-22 02:53 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=kurocyouart site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ I'd die to get you on)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ The sun has set over the horizon, and that being said Essek has allowed the drapes to his room to be drawn so as to start letting in the evening light. He had insisted on a room that did not get the morning sun, afternoon sun usually was a bit more forgiving to him. And so he was stood in front of a mirror in his room getting ready, all the while his mind was floating through the texts that he had received from Caleb Widogast, and even more importantly 'what they could mean'.

He was a man who had very little in terms of emotional connection to anyone or anything. Normally his logic stepped in and handled things, it was how he had survived his stint with Adeen, it was how he got on in Court. Distancing his logic from his feelings so that they were two very separate entities, except now-- he felt as if his feelings were magnetized into something strange and new.

Was he aware that Caleb was in the room next to him? There was never a point in time where he wasn't. The only reason he had not pestered Caleb more often then not was because, it was pestering-- wasn't it? There was what lingered between them and a hesitance bourne of not wanting to mess things up between them and the friendship that they had gained.

And thus he stood from a distance like a cat who wanted to claim the person but did not quite have enough courage to do so quite yet, hoping that the wizard would get the hint and perhaps approach so he could do something shameful like rub himself against those legs, or beg for attention (that is theoretically if Essek was a 'cat' per se-- might be a bit awkward otherwise). He did not know what to do though, which was the thing. How did one let a wizard know that he was in to him?

'It's complicated'-- the words that came back to haunt him, and how he had played confused, but how he had anything but confused with what the words meant.

Carefully he worked a comb through his curls, arranging them and perhaps cursing a bit in Undercommon that he could not use prestidigitate to neaten them up, perhaps that is why they appeared far more unkept than normal-- it could have also been the humidity too. ]

Date: 2023-07-25 02:22 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=lokijoakie site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Good god - under starless skies)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ the knock sounded like a gong and that jostled himself out of his reverie, glancing over his shoulder and then used a split second to do one more arrange with the comb before finally he walked (with such trepidation) to the door and placed his hand on the knob. A turn and then he pulled it open to reveal the wizard-- Caleb. A smile that was hesitant, just the peek of fang pressed against the corner of his lip as he assessed the figure that Caleb made.

His eyes alit upon a collarbone and then downward to freckles, further still until--

Oh my.

His eyes attempted to backpedal at a record speed. Caleb's eyes were up there, he had to remember that, lest he once again take the scenic route. The expression was no better, that manbun caught haphazardly with a few locks frizting out of its confines. ]


You look very nice Caleb Widogast..

[ and nice would have to suffice because he was not sure if it was proper to call a friend 'delicous', people were not cupcakes-- no matter what Jester said to the otherwise. ]

Are you ready? I have everything that is required. [ and yes, Essek was wearing the outfit he'd shown on the network-- though they fit much nicer on himself than a dress dummy ]
Edited Date: 2023-07-25 02:22 am (UTC)

Date: 2023-07-25 12:56 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=zmeess_art site=twitter> (Essek ♠ What you've become just)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Stunning?

That was a very new development, but not unwelcome. He was used to being called 'hot boi' by the Nein, he'd grown used to the mantle of it and the expectation that was attached to it. Expectations that he managed in his own way, making sure that he was not caught unaware or at a disadvantage (only twice it had happened, once in Nicodranas, the other at Eiselcross when they had revealed the Assembly's plans and he'd physically felt the clock start to tick on his own life.

An incline of acknowledgement, knowing not else how to react to it as he placed his palm lightly on a forearm; the palm was cool to counter the heat within Caleb's own body and at the point where they met, it came nearly tolerable perhaps. Both their mutual powers of fire and ice neutralizing to create a comfort ]


Indeed we shall, I look forward to a drink shared with you.

[ Essek decided in this moment that he was going to act like he belonged here on Caleb Widogast's arm, despite the fact that he found himself intensely self-conscious. He, who had never felt such a way for a single moment of his life, was now finding what it felt like on the arm of a very handsome Transmutation Wizard. ]
Edited Date: 2023-07-25 12:56 pm (UTC)

Date: 2023-07-27 08:29 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Soon she's down the stairs)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ There was ridges against his fingertips, curious ridges however he attempted not to focus on it. He did not gape nor did he gawk over such things. Poised, he was poised as he remembered that no one enjoyed being stared at. Not even himself-- but the light of maybe-appreciation that came to Caleb's eyes for a brief second had registered a warmth within him. ]

You will likely not be surprised that I have never been to a tavern before.

[ a note of chagrin came to his voice. ]

Have I overdressed?

Date: 2023-07-31 01:18 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=tshortik site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Don't be afraid- one day)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
You are not so scruffy as you were when we first met, Caleb Widogast.

[ Even though he did miss the Xhorhas garments on Caleb, the purple on him looked very good-- certainly he had enjoyed the wizard's metamorphosis though to be honest, Essek's eyes had been drawn long before that, to the very first moment ]

Though I could make you some clothing, some lighter weight things for this weather. [ And Essek would not even charge the wizard, of course he would not-- that was called preferential treatment and he had long since understood that he did play favorites. ] I would have to take your measurements, naturally.

Date: 2023-07-31 02:03 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> (Essek ♠ For those who sit)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
Jester and Company would never let me live it down if I did not take care of you appropriately.

[ Was that a tease that came from Essek? He tilted his head to the side and glanced over at Caleb's profile, the strong zemnian nose, the freckled skin. A man very much unlike anyone he'd ever encountered in the Dynasty, but handsome for those differences. ]

And if you insist on doing something to pay me back, as I know you will-- perhaps we may investigate this place together, work as a team to infiltrate any mysteries that this Overseer throws our way. [ His palm very lightly patted against the forearm that he had taken ] There is after all no one else I would rather have on my side.

Date: 2023-07-31 02:47 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=ShyTurtleArtist site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ If the sun refused to)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ The lights of the tavern started to rise up in the distance. Good thing too for Essek could feel warmth also flood the cheeks at the answer from Caleb. And how he tried not to feel self-conscious about it, the acceptance of working together as a team while they were here. He wondered if they would remember anything of this.. if they returned.

Essek knew he would like to remember these moments they were sharing. He wanted to remember that perfect afternoon with the setting sun as they exchanged pearls. The laughter and the splashing, and yes even this where they were a little more restrained but with a warm hesitancy-- he did not want to forget this either. ]


Then we shall endeavor to take care of each other so that we do not get scolded, I promise you Caleb that I will take care of you so well that no one shall find fault with it.

[ Well he just said that, didn't he; perhaps he was not aware exactly how it came out sounding. ]

Date: 2023-08-12 03:00 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=miqueltoast site=twitter> (Essek ♠ First site she made me)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
With the way that you acted in the Genesis Ward, you need someone to take care of you.

[ A faint raise of his brow in surprise at how Caleb quickened his pace to hold open the door. Though another smile, this one softer even as he brought his own hand to tuck some of his rather frizzed locks out of his eyes and started inside; if he wasn't with Caleb then likely he would have cursed his lack of magic. Right now, there was no where that he'd rather be and magic was inconsequential.

Once inside, he stepped quickly toward one of the tables in the corner, off to the side-- he certainly did not want to be at the forefront of everything. There were other people in the tavern gathered to socialize underneath the warm evening, he just did not want attention drawn to the two of them.

Without his magic, he felt ridiculously vulnerable now, he could not pull out a chair with mage hand or prestidigitate his hair back into place. Little things that he took for granted. ]


It is rather amazing how much we rely on magic, us wizards.


Date: 2023-08-12 03:15 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=zmeess_art site=twitter> (Essek ♠ I know there's pain-- why do)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ It was also placed in such a way that the two men could see who entered. It was not a defenseless position, for two men for the time being bereft of their magic and their spellbooks, it was the best that they could do. ]

It is very uncomfortable, I have not been this without magic since before the Marble Tomes Conservatory 80 years ago.

[ Once again he realized he was showing his age; he settled down in the chair, crossing one leg over the other. A barmaid was quick to come over and he quickly and quietly ordered a glass of wine, it was barely a blip in the conversation ]</small. When we are wizards, we rather make magic our 'thing' and we build ourselves around that, I suppose it puts things into perspective.

Date: 2023-08-12 03:58 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=szczvpiorku site=tumblr> (Essek ♠ I struggle to convey the love)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Grandfather, that caused Essek to chuckle though he hid it behind the palm of his hand-- there was little doubt that he was amused, completely and thoroughly. It came in the way that the firelight caught in his eyes for the briefest of moments, illuminating all of the gold flecks there much like a cat's. ]

I am not used to relying on anyone, or I have not.. til you and the Nein.

[ He folds his hands together then, flexing perfectly manicured fingertips hesitantly ] Not even my brother whom I do care for, far more than I have ever for my family. [ Essek knew he was revealing quite a bit now to this man before him but he knew that he trusted him ]

Caleb Widogast, I am not consecuted. [ at least not that he was aware of, he had never underwent formal consecution ] I am a new soul and so I have had to use magic as a mantle of strength-- new souls are not respected, not as much as souls that have come down the line to return to the fold.

[ He thought back to Adeen ] Did you know that when I first met you and the Nein in the Bright Queen's audience chambers, I was engaged to be married?

Date: 2023-08-12 04:19 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=Saturday_Sky site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ All I wanted was to be)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ It was best to lay this on the table. The weight of Caleb's warm hands, calloused-- was comforting to Essek and he inhaled a bit; perhaps this was the last bit of secrets between them and one that he was going to lay in the palm of Caleb's hands, let him choose what to do with the information ]

My betrothal was arranged; it was to a consecuted soul. A drow whom was previously of Den Thelyss; it was their way to usher the Drow back into the fold, through a marriage. But drow alliances are always complicated.. and political. He was eager to get back to the Den and lost no time in reminding me that the Den was his rightful place and not mine.

[ The wine glasses came, were set down and he cast a single glass to it before he leveled his gaze to the other wizard ]

We are not betrothed anymore as the Den would never allow me to marry a traitor.

[ His voice halted over the next name ]

Adeen Tasithar.

[ He used the beacons to escape a betrothal; but also.. the words that Jester had spoken to Essek about Adeen being a nasty piece of work, and Essek agreeing with her-- that he was something. That made sense too ]

Sorry Caleb, he wrote a lot

Date: 2023-08-12 01:04 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=_karrah_e site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Tie me to your promises)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Essek did not know what he expected however it had not been the squeeze to his hand that was offered so readily and wholly, this was a moment that would happen months later in the other timeline, fraught with burgeoning feelings from two men who were slowly understanding how to work together in a way that allowed for the each other in uncertain lives.

The fact that Caleb offered of himself so readily had the other man moved so irrecovobly; he could not draw his eyes from their hands forming a link and his mind was already tethered to the sound of those words in such a soothing accented voice. ]


I am ashamed now.. that I took advantage of the beacon to rid myself of an unwanted connection but I do not regret it-- if that makes sense, because it freed me of something distasteful, and perhaps it was the only route I could see at the time but.. in retrospect, I could never have been happy with him holding things over my head constantly. I did not love him, and I was 99 percent certain I could never learn that emotion where he was involved.

[ he did not love like he he loved the Nein, and Caleb specifically; oh, how this ginger wizard was precious to him and he lacked the words or the emotional wherewithal to convey it properly ]

There is much I do not know about the nature of love but I have been taught recently that I should expect better for myself where personal relationships are concerned.

Date: 2023-08-12 09:33 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=zmeess_art site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ I crave you in the morn)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ And Essek did not know precisely what he did not deserve because all of his value had been on things that in the long game had never truly mattered to begin with. Value in knowledge, in prestige, in his position and the facade that he carefully cultivated-- for the most part truth except there had always been a part of himself that had longed to be less lonely.

The touch, the finger brush against his palm-- coolness of his palms from the ice magic that flowed through them hit the heat from Caleb's own warmer hands.

And so the touch was comfortable, the warmth a herald to something-- and gardens often times came with the thawing of winter, for that was when the blooms started to grow. It was a thawing and a growing, for each other ]


Have you learned to take your own advice, Caleb Widogast? [ He inclined his head to the side even as he shifted his hand to settle their hands palm to palm with his fingers against a wrist, his other hand reached for his wine glass to pick it up, settling it against his lips ] I have heard stories from Jester about how you do not think you deserve nice things.

Date: 2023-08-12 11:55 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=Larn_draws site=twitter> (Essek ♠ If you want to stay tonight)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Jester was perceptive likely, and knew what was brewing between the two men underneath the surface. Also, she loved to run interference-- it was what she did. She would talk up Caleb because she saw the way that Essek looked at the ginger, just as she attempted to draw attention to the fact that Essek was watching Caleb.

Their cleric of chaos was a wise bean definitely.

By definition, they were holding hands and it felt nice, the weight of fingers and palms-- and Essek only barely wanted to dwell on how intimate that was for wizards; hair for drow and hands for wizards.

Instead he persued this path, setting the glass down as he licked the taste of wine from his lower lip ]


You taught me that venom can be drawn out, and I refuse to believe that no one who cares for their friends so deeply as you do, does not have a mote of goodness in themselves with which to call forth.

[ This time Essek did fix his gaze on Caleb, the wine fortifying on his lips and took another sip, eyes meeting Caleb's over crystal while he waited for what Caleb would say to that. ] You know that you are my example of how I want to start living my life.

Date: 2023-08-13 02:01 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> (Essek ♠ In the middle of the night when)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Thankfully for Caleb's keen mind, he likely won't even miss the way that a flush crosses over the bridge of Essek's nose and makes the star freckles slightly more prominent; the direct result of a finger brushed casually against wrist, meaningful and he had to take a sip of his wine to clear his throat, eyes darting toward the side though his own fingers twitched ever so slightly against the wrist, inadvertently touching a slender scar there.

Fortifying indeed, the wine slid down and he could feel the warmth pool.

When he spoke, his own voice was only a trifle unsteady but that may be the wine ]


Großvater is quite capable of choosing his examples, young man. [ A tone of voice that was trying to be admonishing but instead only came out as flustered. Did nerd wizard #1 just land a winning blow against nerd wizard #2? ]

Date: 2023-08-13 02:57 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=roseclericart site=twitter> (Essek ♠ With understanding- you won't)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ The dunamancer had an idea built of little hints here and there; he knew that it involved Volstruckers, had seen it in the Dungeon of Penance. Caleb had seen him at his worst, and Essek was mindful that this was trust in all of it's beautiful simplicity, and gods to see those eyes fall down to the glass made his heart ache in such an undefinable way.

Although he did not know how to offer comfort, still he shifted his hand to twine their fingers together-- instinctively offering that in a gesture that was perhaps more intimate, but also a show of strength and of care. ]


I will hear your story.. [ But he would not be judge and juror, he knew that he was not qualified for that and likewise he did not want to pass judgement on him, and he rather thought that Caleb judged himself more harshly than anyone elee could ]

Date: 2023-08-13 03:43 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=casukaga site=twitter> (Essek ♠ I get lost tracing my steps)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ As much as Essek wished that he could profess any sort of surprise of that which Caleb told him, he wasn't. Not the moment that Trent Ikithon was mentioned and he felt that gnawing 'dread' in the pit of his stomach where his.. where Caleb was concerned. And his fingers, instead of drawing away, squeezed tighter as if to press upon the point that this was a safe harbor, that Essek was safe no matter what that meant.

The murder and the subterfuge, the insidious mind tricks, the guilt and the recriminations that Caleb likely put himself through every second of every minute of every hour of the day.

But Essek could spot the difference. He had chosen his hubris whereas Caleb was manipulated-- now this was not a who committed the bigger sin, but Essek could not legitimately see where any of what happened could be laid on Caleb's shoulders. ]


Well, Caleb Widogast [ He spoke that name as a reminder to the other man of who he has become and not who he had been ] I will not be your judge and juror; I can tell you though that you were a young man and there were parts of you that had not developed yet and all I can see is that you were taken advantage of by those in power. You are no longer Bren Ermendrud, you have risen like the Phoenix and I know, as well as the rest of the Nein, that you will never let that happen again and that it will become your life's mission.

[ His voice lowered to a whisper ]

That does not make you a man worth recriminations, it makes you a man worthy of care and consideration.


Date: 2023-08-13 04:16 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> (Essek ♠ In the middle of the night when)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ The Shadowhand came out then, imperious and queen-like. The sort of persona that brooked no arguments, it was easy to hold it like a mantle and also he rather thought that Caleb would respond well to it. ]

You are wrong, a weak man turns away kindness.. and a strong man learns when it is appropriate to accept it for what it is.

[ Caleb Widogast, what a beautiful scarred man. Essek did not have those fears and retributions burned so deeply inside them; they were there but they had not left an imprint. He longed to do so much more, instead he fished out a scented handkerchief and he leaned over to dab at the tops of Caleb's cheeks lightly with something that was remisicent of lavender and snow. ]

We do not have to give each other up, in fact you and the Nein have ensured that you are effectively stuck with me for better and for worse.

Date: 2023-08-14 02:43 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=thekatyariver site=twitter> (Essek ♠ I've seen life burn bright- I've)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
You are fine, I am merely fulfilling a need that you clearly have.. [ Until Caleb was back with the rest of the Nein again, and he would no longer be needed, he did not want to think about that ] and that is to assure you that you are worthy and that you still have things to fight for.

[ He settled the handkerchief against the table then, within reaching distance in case Caleb needed it again, and then he picked up his glass of wine to finish it. ] You do not have to apologize for anything Caleb, you really should apologize to yourself for being so unkind.

[ A squeeze of that hand, comforting and cool to counter the warmth of Caleb's own touch ]

If you cannot be kind to yourself, then I will step in and be kind to you, and you will have no choice but to accept it. [ Would Caleb deny Essek? ]

Date: 2023-08-14 06:15 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=Lulii9999 site=twitter> (Essek ♠ He's stealing salt skin-- tellin)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ How to tell Caleb that he did not wish for Caleb to give him anything, that he was not offering Caleb this in exchange for anything. Caleb had every molecule of his care and consideration, he did not need to offer anything up in exchange, except that Essek could orbit around that artificial sun that was Caleb's smile. He glanced off to the side, it was flicker, some unreadable emotion for a moment catching hold like a lightning bug. ]

You have promised that while we are here, we will have each other's backs, that is fine. As well as conversations with you, like this.

[ He liked this, having a drink with the other wizard as if things like this were normal; not having to worry about eyes on them or teasings. Just the luxury of Caleb's company that was offered freely ]

I may have grown up a rich boy from the Dynasty, but moments like these are rare for me and I.. like them.

[action]

Date: 2023-12-04 07:24 am (UTC)
beigeacademia: (smile1)
From: [personal profile] beigeacademia
[After this conversation with Essek, Elias starts looking out for Caleb’s presence in the library. It probably doesn’t take long. The next time he sees Caleb visit the library and settle in a spot he’ll wave at the guy, and sail over before Caleb gets too engrossed in his books.]

Hey. Winter solstice, are you going to be spending it with Essek? It’s a good time for some festivities, but it’s also a good time with just one’s loved ones.

[He could have asked what Caleb was going to read today, but to be honest if he did he would probably get distracted by said books.]

Date: 2023-12-05 05:52 am (UTC)
beigeacademia: (Oh Mordenkainen)
From: [personal profile] beigeacademia
Wouldn't he be? You seem close.

[Elias stops next to Caleb’s table, leaning against it (or if Caleb is at a low table on a sofa, he'll instead lean against the back of the sofa). Sort of a casual “fellow researcher makes idle chitchat as they pass by” pose. He feels like if he sits down on the next chair things would be suddenly more serious.]

What're your thoughts on marriage? [As if to make things More Casual, he adds quickly-] -as in, in general?

Date: 2023-12-09 03:41 am (UTC)
beigeacademia: (confused)
From: [personal profile] beigeacademia
Okay, so you're open to it!

[No not really, but if other scholars can massage the statistics so can he! Elias nods, encouraged.]

Because I was just- well, we were just thinking, springtime’s auspicious for a wedding. No, sorry, other people are hoping for one in general, springtime’s lucky where I come from. My wife I had planned for a spring wedding too, if I remember correctly.

[fnejcnfndjffjfjd that was a big fumble but he thinks he saved it. Gods, why did he agree to this, why didn't Essek get Blake to do this or something.]

I mean- you don't have to, in fact if you think it's not the time that's alright. I'll go… tell the well-wishers to knock it off. [He's also assuming these “other people who want a wedding” exist? But judging from the attention Essek’s network post got, one would reasonably assume people ship it. It's basically a courtesy to clue Caleb in. ] But it's of my opinion that he surely won't be as busy here as he will be when you return home. If there's ever a place for one to consider what their desires would look like if feasibility were no issue, wouldn't it be here?

Call it a thought experiment, if you will.
Edited (TYPO) Date: 2023-12-09 03:43 am (UTC)

Date: 2023-12-09 07:10 am (UTC)
beigeacademia: (serious1)
From: [personal profile] beigeacademia
Mhm.

[Elias, expression calm, slides his gaze automatically away from Caleb’s face and to the books on the table when he hears the other man floundering. He's gone through this Awkward Relationship Questions rodeo, so it's not so terrifying to him as it had been the first time. Well, it helps to be on the outside too.]

Well… we are a fairly tight-knit group here, and a strong mutual affection is something no one would not root for, as it were.

If, one …well, from what I've heard Essek say- I mean, from how he speaks of you- I get the sense he wants… it? Or at least he wouldn't mind. I can't speak on what you ‘deserve’, but I think… making your partner happy can't be a shameful thing.

[He doesn't show it, but all cylinders are firing in his brain right now as he multitasks talking deeply about love and also OH, ESSEK DEFINITELY WOULD WISH TO MARRY YOU, MY FRIEND. BUT HOW DO I TELL YOU? HOW DO I TELL YOU WITHOUT TELLING YOU!?!]

-why don't I ask him for you? Then you'll know for sure.

[Elias pulls his Oracle device out. Both to “ask” Essek, and because he's fighting a losing battle against the impulse to report back to the drow now. Technically, they could get married today at the book return! That's what Caleb said!]

Date: 2023-12-10 01:02 pm (UTC)
beigeacademia: (realisation)
From: [personal profile] beigeacademia
Yes, I think so!

[Elias looks back at Caleb earnestly. He supports being down bad! He understands the feeling. And as a fellow wizard who is down bad for another “this was going to be a villain before you friendshipped them so hard” character intellectual, he wants Caleb to succeed.

Wait no he's here to help Essek- oh gods this is confusing.]


Okay. You'll broach the topic with him, then? What's the plan? [Elias palms the phone, and finally takes a seat next to Caleb so he can drop his voice co-conspiratorially.] To be honest, I haven't heard him talk about his cultural traditions like he wants to replicate them here, but we shouldn't guess at this kind of thing.

Date: 2023-12-15 05:57 am (UTC)
beigeacademia: (looking down)
From: [personal profile] beigeacademia
[They're wizards, Caleb! Like 90% of them have a kill count!! There are probably multiple Trent-ian archmages out there terrorizing adventurers and adventurers-to-be, and compared to them, yeah Elias would much rather attend Caleb and Essek’s wedding than those guys’.]

Both have their positives to me... you know Essek better, you should decide what feels best. As long as you have a plan and know what you're doing going into that conversation.

Maybe come up with some ideas too in case he asks you right back what you want. [He takes out a notebook and pen. The wizard’s best emotional crutch.] Stuff like, do you want a big or small wedding or even no ceremony? Do you want formal dress? Or generally, if he asks “what kind of wedding would you want” what would you say?

Winter's Crest gift

Date: 2023-12-21 01:13 am (UTC)
dedoink: (Grog 65)
From: [personal profile] dedoink
[ Grog was running low on ideas for what to get his friends for Winter's Crest this year... So, he decided to turn The Cask & Anvil tavern into his one-stop-shop for gifts.

Left outside Caleb and Essek's door with a ribbon haphazardly tied around each neck, and a note in nearly illegible handwriting reading HAPY WINTRS KREST FRUM GROG, are two bottles of liquor. Hopefully it'll be obvious which one is for which wizard. ]

[ INBOX - ACTION ]

Date: 2023-12-22 03:38 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=caemidraws site=twitter> (Essek ♠ And sun drips down bedding)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Essek knew that there were traditions that were inherent during this time of the year, and of course he had also researched that thoughtful gifts were generally the norm. He'd wracked his mind for things that he could do for Caleb Widogast, his now Fiancé. The man did not need very much to be happy it would appear; a cat, a warm cup of something, a nice scarf and a book to read.

And friends.

Essek Thelyss had been curiously absent all day. He'd used the excuse that he had some last minute commissions to work on. But he hadn't, not really. He'd been in the kitchen downstairs working on something-- he'd heard Caleb enthuse about the apple tarts at the Stone Dragon however, he'd also lamented that they were not quite like the ones his mother made. And so Essek had rolled up his sleeve and endeavored to do something that was meaningful. Maybe he could try? And thus he spent a solid couple of hours with Pike to learn, except these tarts were for the most part unassisted.

Pike had been there to make sure he had not committed some fatal error.

And so Essek could feel his heart in his throat as he saw what lay on the table. They were not the prettiest tarts at all, they certainly were not the uniform tarts that came out of the Stone Dragon-- these had little points where the cinnamon sugar had caramelized and dripped out the side, the edges were not even and they looked a mess. He had almost chucked them because they did not look like he thought they should look, perfect and precise.

And yet he ascended the steps with them on a tray with a cup of Glühwein, he would offer apologies if needed-- he had backup gifts, something that Caleb probably would find useful. And so, as Essek stepped through the door, he felt himself close to tears-- with gravity, he shut the door behind him and then he cleared his throat.

He looked about as much as a mess as the tarts, his hair rumbled from the heat in the kitchen, his sleeves rolled up and specks of flour on his nose and cheeks; he'd not even the presence of mind to clean up before. ]
I made you something, for the season.

[ And quickly. ] It's not the only thing and if they are terrible, I understand.

Date: 2024-01-07 03:49 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=angrybabsarts site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Just as I walk through the door)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
Ah yes...

[ He set the tray down on the desk beside Caleb, and could feel his own wrist tremble in such a way that bespoke of a fair bit of nerves, and then he took a half a step back and surveyed the plate that held the slightly misshapen tarts full of character if not beauty.

And then he saw Caleb looking up at him, with tears and suddenly his heart understood gravity's insistence as his lungs and heart took a slamming nosedive down into his solar-plexus in what could only be construed of as panic. Were they really.. he did not know how to interpret those tears. ]
They are not perfect, I know.. they are not the pretty ones that are made at the Stone Dragon.

[ He covered half of his face with his apron, for he was still wearing an apron. Pike had assured him that the tarts would be perfect, had said that they tasted perfect, but he could not get over the aesthetic of it. ]

Pike ah.. told me that they tasted alright-- if you are not put off by what a mess they look?

Date: 2024-01-07 04:12 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: [ TBD ] (Essek ♠ Why are hopes and things)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ And Essek was almost ashamed of himself for the sudden urge to cry; he had never before been beset by such a confusing miasma of differing feelings-- of the urge to cry out of relief, but also the subtle fear that he would fall short when all he wanted to do right now at this moment was make Caleb smile. He was quickly drawn into Caleb's arms, and he certainly not stop him. LIkewise, the apron fell from his clasped hands as he was kissed and assured.

His arms wrapped around Caleb's waist and he looked up into those eyes, and to his own unstopped vulnerable self, he was teary and that was going to further track flour and turn it into sticky salt on his face. ]


I will not stop you but also I would like you to eat one, just to you know make sure that you like them.

[ He wanted to promise Caleb that he would get better on them, but he could not quite get the words out especially when Caleb looked so perfectly accepting of all of his flaws. It was such dissonance to be with someone who did not expect perfection of him ] I would also like a kiss.. very much.

[ Let's be real, to soothe the nerves that he himself had riled up ]

Date: 2024-01-07 04:49 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: [ TBD ] (Shadowgast ♠ We're past the point of)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Kiss after kiss which he accepted. Each pitter-patter of lips like rain against his own and such molecular tenderness and he was caught, the breath managing to leave his lungs for greener pastures, but he was glad that Caleb loved them, even more so that the Transmutation wizard loved him and was that not a miracle in and of itself.

If Caleb never stopped kissing him, he'd have no complaints whatsoever.

When he spoke next, he was breathless and charmed all the same. He would never know how much this bore resemblance to Caleb's own parents, that they were shaping up to give Caleb a piece of home back, and the apple tarts were only an base component in the algorithm of a shared life between two flawed men. ]


I may have to sit on your lap and feed you a tart piece by piece, so that you actually get around to eating one. [ Because he was already imagining Caleb Widogast eating him up which caused him to grow unseasonably warm, which could likely be felt as it spiked in the skin underneath Caleb's lips. ]

Date: 2024-01-07 09:50 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> / Commission - do not take (Default)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Essek was a prisoner, but not an unwilling one. He knew that if he attempted to struggle out, Caleb would release him.. the thing was, Essek did not want to and so backwards they both went until Essek was perched on Caleb's lap, effectively sitting between Caleb and his reach to the desk. That meant that there was no choice but for Caleb to be fed from his fingertips.

He smiled against the kiss, a smile that showed his teeth, perfect and straight aside from those sharpened incisors, and the smile reached his eyes while he steadied himself and allowed for more sweet kisses from down below. ]
Very well then, Herr Widogast..

[ There was that telling plum flush that rose high on his cheeks as he reached over to take up a tart and then effectively picking up one. Thankfully, the tart was cool enough not to burn but it still was a bit drippy as it managed to leave a cinnamon apple trail against his palm; he tried to ignore that as he broke off the corner of one. ] If you do not like it, you will tell me.. I do not want you to pretend that they are delightful when they really are not, promise me?

[ He was offering the piece then, holding it up and in perfect nomming range of Caleb's lips. ]

Date: 2024-01-08 01:57 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=oddthesungod site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ Honey - you're familiar)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ The widening of the eyes told the truth, the soft smile and he found himself melting into relief against Caleb's torso as he rested his forehead against the side of Caleb's head while he hoped that his shoulder was not digging into his fiancé's collarbone; Caleb enjoyed them, that had been the goal of course, to give Caleb something from memory; and he closed his eyes. ]

You deserve this, I wanted to do something for you and I promise that you will have a lifetime filled with apple tarts.

[ That was when he felt Caleb's hand close around his wrist and then his hand was moved-- he expected a kiss to the wrist and instead-- the slow drag of tongue against his palm, his eyes darted open and a surge of heat propelled through him at the slide of tongue though he could not stop himself from watching it, feeling the faint sticky trail of saliva. ]

You are very helpful yes, I suppose this means you want another bite?

Date: 2024-01-09 04:40 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> (Essek ♠ You got a look in your eye)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Essek knew that he had to work on Caleb's self-worth, but that nonchalant way of speaking consistently surprised him, especially when he saw how everyone within the Nein adored the other wizard, the enrichment that he brought to everyone's life on account of just being. His eyes were soft as he regarded Caleb and then after breaking off the next piece of tart, two fingers went just underneath that chin and then he tilted the other man's head so that he could look up into his eyes.

Brows furrowed, the drow was trying not to be distracted by thoughts of whatever else Caleb could lick off, especially with that mischief held like flames within those eyes. ]


You are being an incorrigible brat.

[ He said this simply before he pressed the apple tart to that mouth, to lightly shove while he tsk'd in a manner most chastising. ] Of course you deserve me, there is simply no doubt that you do; you have domesticated a war criminal and that is a feat in and of itself. [ He smirked then and it may have been ridiculous with the flour splattered in key positions on his visage. ]

If we had our own kitchen, you could be a helper for me.. I would wear only an apron for you; that is if you are a good boy.

Date: 2024-01-10 02:26 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=zmeess_art site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Life is a distance and I walk)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Had he been domesticated, really?

He had to think about that question that had been poised to him by Caleb Widogast. He had not been domesticated, not really. There would always be a part of himself that kept at a distance from others, especially strangers. Instinct to look down at them and from afar like a cat who was judging their existence silently.

But around Caleb he was different. ]


I do not think tamed so much as I happen to have a person of my own that I will allow to pet me?

[ He used that opportunity to brush his lips against Caleb's jawline, feeling the warm rough scratch of facial hair while he tightened his arms around those shoulders. ] I think that I am a one person cat however, I do not want any other person except for you.

[ He would deign to have pets from Jester and those that he would allow to sit with him in comfortable silence, but as far as intimacy-- Caleb was the only one he wanted. ] I am intrigued though by a kitchen of our own, Chathtiu.
Edited Date: 2024-01-10 02:28 am (UTC)

Date: 2024-01-11 04:00 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: (Essek ♠ One night a few moons ago)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Perched as he was on Caleb's lap, he shifted only a little bit so that he could straddle Caleb and then he settled there, all the while he was fingering the edge of his apron strings in a very suggestive manner while he raised one elegant brow. So perhaps he did not look entirely seductive with the smudge of powdered sugar on his cheek, but there was a playfulness about him that was not given to just anyone.

If Caleb did not want himself-- this cat would likely walk all over him, especially with those dainty drow feet, with those nails painted a starry solar-system black to compliment the purple tones of his skin. ]


I will need an assistant in the kitchen, and perhaps if you are very good, I will give you a special treat to get your mouth on.. [ And Essek's cheeks flushed even as he attempted to keep himself composed and seductive, the darker shade of plum on his cheeks though were the only giveaway that he had made a very intriguing innuendo. ]

[ holiday delivery! ]

Date: 2023-12-24 09:02 am (UTC)
fromshadows: (002)
From: [personal profile] fromshadows
[ Caleb will find several presents sitting outside his door, wrapped in black wrapping paper with purple bows. The first is a collection of books on magic that Blake has found from other worlds, their blurbs promising all sorts of bizarre ideas like slime magic, star magic, and atomic enchantments. The second is a little box of snacks from the local bakery; pastries and chocolates and cookies all neatly arranged. ]

Gift Delivery (backdated 12/25)

Date: 2023-12-30 10:34 pm (UTC)
anything_grows: (TOH02_20_3899)
From: [personal profile] anything_grows
[ A small box arrives for Caleb in the morning, and inside are a set of dried flower bookmarks, and a simple note. ]

Happy Holidays, Caleb!

- Willow

Action

Date: 2024-03-21 04:56 pm (UTC)
likemybooks: Taryon brandishing a sword and smiling (heroism)
From: [personal profile] likemybooks
[Within week of settling into his new home, Taryon recalls that he was asked to get along with their Wildemount neighbors - Essek and the ginger guy. Caleb. He was able to meet with the drow for tailoring requests, but he had yet to properly introduce himself to the Zemnian. This cannot stand.

Taryon knocks on Caleb's door one afternoon, a plate of fresh blondies in his hand, and adjusts his shirt collar and hair. Vex said that she hoped they'd get along, but what they had in common, Taryon couldn't tell.

Time to find out.]

Date: 2024-03-26 08:43 pm (UTC)
likemybooks: Taryon with his eyes closed, smiling, and a finger pointed (take this down)
From: [personal profile] likemybooks
[Caleb seems to be on the shy side, but Taryon's dazzling smile and great looks will put him at ease. Tary regards the cat with a fond look - even if he prefers dogs - and nods.]

The one and only. No need to worry about the delivery charge. This one's on the house. [He snakes through the opening and enters Caleb's room one foot at a time, expertly leaving the plate of pastries level as he moved. Inside, he waited by the entrance, taking in the surroundings and getting a read on this stranger's room.]

: action :

Date: 2024-06-27 08:37 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=Saturday_Sky site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ But you had to come)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Essek perhaps is only a little nervous, sitting there in the rather quiet recieving room of Valsharess, and he is holding a box in his hand. He knew it was customary for gifts to be exchanged and likewise he had thought about what he wanted to give Caleb as a wedding gift. There were a great many things that he could've chosen but that which was nestled in the box was something that he thought was meaninful even if it was a little bit ridiculous.

He was waiting for Caleb to pick him up, it was after all just as customary for his betrothed to drop by and escort him back to the castle, indulging him in those little rites of courtship that he'd deigned not to engage with Adeen (he'd at the time rather not give Adeen any sort of encouragement).

The clock on the wall ticked, just minutes away from Caleb walking through the Connecting door that led from Slayer's Bake. His lover was as constant and he'd grown to expect such things, though he was perennially always delighted with them. ]

Re: : action :

Date: 2024-06-27 09:18 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=DrawsMaddy site=twitter> (pic#17243984)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
I am~

[ Essek did not rise from the couch, a purple confection that was warmly fuzzed and soft-- but of course Caleb would know exactly how soft it was for general reasons. Instead he patted his hand lightly against the cushion with a rather arch smile. ] Perhaps you should come join me for a space of time? I have something that I would like to give to you..

[ There was a rather suspicious little box in Essek's hand, because of course there was. He had a very tender and gentle expression on his face, and it was not one that everyone was able to see. After all, the Ice Queen melted for no one but their Fire King-- was that not correct? ]

Date: 2024-06-27 11:48 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> / Commission - do not take (Default)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ The drow could not help but feel the whisper of shivers at the touch, the way that calloused fingers surrendered such trust to his skin-- he closed his eyes for a moment, much like a cat would. In such a way, him and Kyorli shared the same sort of tendency to rub up against people that they liked. And in both cases, it was rare.

Very carefully then he slipped the box between the two of them, letting Caleb take it as he wished. ]


It is a tradition for the giving of a M'hrandii gifts-- you do not have to adhere to it, which is why I did not tell you-- but I wanted to give you something, as a remembrance of our first meeting. [ When Caleb opened the box, he would find laying in a little swathe of purple silk, a set of cufflinks; they would pair rather nicely on Caleb's wedding outfit and one could almost think that they would be Luxon shaped.

But surprisingly, they were not.

Instead, there were little cufflinks in the shape of cat paws-- suspiciously looking like the Cat's Ire that Caleb had cast that first time, the first time that Essek had been charmed and decided to teach the other Wizard Dynasty Secrets. ]

Date: 2024-06-28 12:29 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=noxarcanaart site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Passion and silence- every)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
I am glad that you like them.

[ The drow then leaned forward and brushed his lips very gently against the soft bristle of beard, and it was a sweet sort of tribute meant to convey how much affection he held for the other man. ] A man full of talent, I could not help but be intrigued by such a vibrant and curious mind with such a colourful repertoire of spells.

[ And that had only been the beginning for Essek Thelyss, Shadowhand of the Bright Queen. ] Sehr gut-- I am glad that you are pleased with then, they were custom made for me and I hope that you will wear them when we get married.

[ And was there a trifle hint of shyness to Essek at the statement, as if fearing (unnecessarily) that Caleb would not wear them. ]

Date: 2024-06-28 08:42 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=iristrum site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ If I lay here-- if I just l)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ There was a soft acknowledgement that came in the form of pleasure, the smile that could barely contain itself, but for intents and purposes it was so quiet, and part and parcel of the slowly spreading joy that the other wizard made him feel. He felt full with it, and also extremely content with his lot in life.

He had once spoken that he wouldn't change a thing, and that doubly was the case.

Despite it all, it was still difficult for him to accept gifts even if they were wedding gifts but he knew that it would be thoughtful and something that he loved, because it came from the heart of this incandescent man that he loved so very much-- the glowing fire that was his man. Some people called fire destructive, and perhaps it was- but it was also healing, and transmutative. ]


If you wish to give me a gift, I would gladly recieve it but also I am also patient, cultivated by 121 years.

Date: 2024-06-28 01:02 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: [ TBD ] (Shadowgast ♠ I've got something to)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Not a glamourous gift?

Oh no, he could tell the papers were but a firestorm, the way that they hovered in amber like little flecks caught within-- and his fingers closed around them reflexively to capture whatever warmth lay in that pendant, with his own cool temperate palm. Simple cufflinks, simple cufflinks when Caleb had given him a wealth of words. He could feel emotion capturing within and then a soft little hiccup, even as he leaned forward and bumped his head against shoulder, because he could not do anything else. ]


I've had enough of glamour in my life, my favor has been courted with so many gifts-- but none can compare to the sweetness with which I find this. [ Upwards, Essek looked at Caleb's profile then; the wizard would be able to see tears there, sweet and nearly ridiculous tears.

It would hurt when one day he had to read those letters, but it would be a reminder that it was worth it. ]
You know, you I expect you to steal this pendant from me, so that you will pen many more letters to me.. I will want to keep reading those letters until my own life ends and I'm able to ah.. join you?

[ A smile, it was not a sad smile-- it was a 'I will love you forever' smile, and there was not a whole lot that Caleb could do to circumvent it. ]

Also those cuff links feel rather insignificant compared to the wealth you've given me this day. [ and yes, there were tears sparkling now in those eyes, from eyes that were not used to it-- but here was Caleb making all things possible in the name of love. ]

Date: 2024-06-28 03:57 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=zmeess_art site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ And I don't want the)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ The way that Caleb spoke this so sweetly, he could envision it but not in truly great detail; he did not know that life would bring them a Pearl Beyond Measure or that one day they would walk through Rexxentrum with Essek in a disguise used to assist in allowing them a normal life.

But no matter, he knew whatever it was-- it would be a sweeter boon then he had no right feeling. ]
I promise you, Caleb Widogast that I will love you with all my heart, you will never doubt a single moment.

[ He looked up at Caleb then, the thumb against his cheek and those warm island eyes, and then he huffed a little bit and buried himself further into those arms because there was no place that he'd rather be-- the future was never something he'd anticipated but he wanted that future with this man. ]

I had pondered the Luxon symbols but ah, I think we have had enough of Beacons in our lives..

[ There was a beat and a pause ] Well, except for the one that I still possess.

[ It was rather amazing what one could hide in a pocket dimension-- undetected. ]

Date: 2024-06-29 05:19 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=Saturday_Sky site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ I'll wear that dress if)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
[ Yes, they had Beacons-- and wasn't that something that had brought them together at the start? That intrepid Empire man who stated he was of the Empire but no friend of theirs? Well they had both changed quite a bit and he rather looked forward to how else they would change going forward in the future.

He ducked his forehead so that a kiss could be levied against the skin, enjoying the contact for exactly what it was-- a testament to love, and if Essek was being honest; the forehead kisses were his favorite, a reminder of one of the greatest turning points in his life. ]


Now, is my young man going to walk me back to the castle? Its been a long day and you would not believe the amount of garments I am making so that people can attend our wedding in style.

[ A laugh even as he reached to place his hand in Caleb's, trust-- always trust ]

Date: 2024-07-01 12:31 am (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=zmeess_art site=twitter> (Shadowgast ♠ Those hardest to love)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
Then let us go, Caleb Widogast.

[ Essek said this with a smile as he accepted that hand, placing their hands together with fingers entwined and then giving it a squeeze of such simple encouragement and trust that Caleb would never lead him astray-- unless astray was a euphemism for something else entirely. In which case his fiance could lead him as much astray as he desired.

There would be no complaints whatsoever. ]


A nice meal, a long bath and most assuredly a firm cuddle is quite in order, I suppose you could say it is a part of my demands.

Date: 2024-07-02 05:28 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=salaidard site=twitter> (Essek ♠ You tell me I'm a grain of)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
I have seen how much you enjoy demands, Chathtiu--

[ It was then that Essek raised himself to his full floating height, his back straightening and a sideways glance thrown Caleb's way, but there was a tenderness that lurked just underneath the raise of that brow, perhaps it was in the crease at the corner of that eye that determined a smile. ]

A Dynasty adage states that behind every Kryn is someone who is set in place to give them exactly what they want, and with very little in the way of a smart mouth.

[ A huff as he watched Caleb kiss the back of his knuckles. ] Though I do love your clever mouth--

Date: 2024-07-05 01:41 pm (UTC)
zauberdecke: <user name=Dungeon_drawing site=twitter> (Essek ♠ Cause baby I could build)
From: [personal profile] zauberdecke
I want all of you, Chathtiu-- nothing else for me will do.

[ A secretly arch smile then, thinking of course of the ways in which that mouth could be of use. It was a smile that the Wizard would know well, it brought to mind memories of sweetness combined with heat, of companionship and yes also a wealth of things that the other man had quite simply unlocked within him. ] I will promise that my demands will only serve to your betterment, and our mutual satisfaction.

[ Essek was well aware of the trust that the wizard placed in his hands, and he would hold it tightly like a treasure, a pearl beyond price. ]

[Text] (before all hell broke loose)

Date: 2024-09-22 09:45 pm (UTC)
veththebrave: (Default)
From: [personal profile] veththebrave
Caleb! Did you see Molly?

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Caleb Widogast

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