Spirits of the Earth

[WARNING: MATURE SEXUAL CONTENT AND VIOLENCE.]

Void. There was nothing else it could be described as. A consciousness floated around in the blackness of such a space, contemplating nothing, for it could not do so. What did it mean to think, to know? Such an endeavor would require the capacity to retain information, the will to seek an answer, both things the consciousness lacked. Random flits of knowledge whipped past the being like comets in a starless night, hinting to a life past, one it could not seem to grasp once more. Really, it was the most torturous of fates, one the conscious could not hope to escape from, as it had not the ability to hope, nor despair either. Only to exist, alone in the dark...

That fate was not final, however. Out of the void, a light ebbed, brighter than a thousand suns to one who'd known only darkness. It enveloped the consciousness, tearing it away from the void as a new sensation rocked its mind: pain. The twisting agony of cells being formed from scratch, to tissues, to muscles, to organs, wrapping around bones and screaming at the sting of the open air. By the time the man was fully formed, he was already unconscious from the pain, and his muscled body hit the hardwood floor of a bedroom next to the nightstand, his two foot long, silver-grey mane sprawling around him. Above him, on the nightstand, sat a solitary, black diamond ring, glittering in the moonlight cast through the windowpane.


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General Hakon Kilandre had finished untacking her dearest companion Purgatorio within the stables of Ansgar's hand, rubbing down the great Theocog's hide despite her finery- noting briefly she would have to repair the dress after that brief spar with the Grand Duke's High Guard. It had been over a year since she had interacted to brashly in that manner, and she felt utterly lost but... Content. New hope swelled in her breast after so many months of uncertainty. Idly reaching up, she released her hair from the ornate braid and pins that held it in place as she closed the large stable door and moved back to her quarters.

Slowly releasing herself of the jewels and silk and netting that complimented her so well despite her warrior prowess and stance, the General made it to her room, preparing with some relief to free herself of the deep iridescent gown. In the darkness, she pushed open the door and proceeded to so so, letting the silk fall into a pile like an inky puddly upon the floor as she proceeded to lock the door and move to the hearth- working upon lighting it, her bare back arched slightly as she began to attempt to light the kindling. The heavy, drunken buzz that kept her brain in a cotton wrap seemed to blind her to the fact she was not alone...

The man shifted on the ground, having laid there for several hours, his eyes fluttering open to the breathtaking view of a bedpost. It all seemed so new to him, being able to see, feel, smell... the smell of tinder permeated the room. What was tinder? He didn't know, but he knew it's smell. Odd...

He slowly rose to his knees, unkempt silver locks draping over his face and shoulders. Where was he? The realization that he'd asked a question in his mind thrilled him, as though it were a pursuit he'd long missed, and indeed it was. He glanced around the room, his eyes catching onto the form of being kneeling by a small, stone enclosure. Who is that? Come to think of it, who was he? An intriguing prospect, the issue of identity, though he didn't suppose he could very well answer the previous question without first pursuing the latter. However, no matter how hard he tried, nothing came to mind.


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The sound of movement just behind her caused the General to tense, as the fire bloomed to life, she slowly grasped a firepoker nearby. Her movements were unsteady due to her drunkenness, but she grasped the sharp iron rod firmly in one hand, ensuring the fire would stay alive while simultaneously heating the poker. An assassin? Did someone want her dead already and so soon? Too bad for them... Unless she was utterly blacked out, she was still a formidable opponent.

In an instant, she suddenly swiveled upon the balls of her bare feet, holding the poker in a hammer grip as the sharp point - glowing a fearsome red - she noted the silver mane and exposed body, instantly feeling a stab of disgust. How dare they send a madman after her?!?

" Identify yourself and your purpose." She snapped, though she shifted slightly off balance, ugh... This is what she got for drinking wantonly.


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The strange being by the stone enclosure whipped around lightning quick as soon as the fire was stoked,  brandishing a weapon of some sort. Fear born from a lack of understanding blossomed in Aven's chest, and he recoiled, an odd vibrating sensation in his throat instinctually emerging. "I-I don't know!" As his body shifted backward, the hair parted from his face, revealing the gentle, but frightened silver-grey eyes of a familiar face.


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The orange glow of the poker and flame caught the man's face, she suddenly felt herself crumble, her heart and mind collapsing entirely at that familiar face. The General's arm went limp, the poker falling the ground with a loud bang and clatter as she sat back upon her haunches- staring at him with mouth agape in shock.

Tears immediately sprung from her eyes as she choked out," A-Aven?" resting both hands behind her to keep herself upright, she couldn't believe her eyes, as blurred as her vision was becoming with tears. God, why? Was this some cruel joke???

The would-be attacker fell the the ground, relinquishing her weapon, and began to tear up. Had he done something to cause such a reaction? The man's eyes opened wide at her response, the single word echoing through his mind enough to stick there. Aven... Aven... was he Aven? Yes, that sounded right, he was sure of it. Memories flashed before him of bowing before various beings, introducing himself as "Aven Alveron". A feeling of relief poured over him as his mind was allowed to remember, to know. How he'd wished for that very blessing, how long had it been?

He stammered to reply. "Y-yes, my name is Aven Alveron: what is your name?"


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He didn't know her? Or maybe he'd forgotten? How could he forget everything? This caused a not in her throat, her chest burned - so much so that it hurt to try and speak again. The smell of burning flooring suddenly catches her attention, the woman quickly scooping up the poker and thrusting it into the flames- stamping out the sparks upon the carpet with her bare foot and quickly regretting the decision. The pain of burning her foot briefly cleared her mind long enough to try and get a grip upon herself. Quickly, she ran a hand through her hair, taking a deep breath, closing her eyes tightly.

" I.. Hakon, Hakon Kilandre-" she looks up, furrowing her brow weakly," Don't you... Don't you remember me?"

Aven wracked his brain. The woman... yes, a woman... seemed distraught over his lack of knowledge. He was as well, a burning sensation within his chest screaming at him that he knew her. Memories flashed once more, showing him the exploits of an armored commander on a large, six legged beast. She was as breathtaking in his memories as she was in his vision at the moment, despite the various scars along her body... scars. A memory of a mansion, a graveyard with gravestones inscribed, "Kilandre".

Was he close to her? Perhaps, she was his commander. That would make sense, all those memories of battle were of military persuasion. Military? Of course, the military, he was a soldier. Yes, she was Major Hakon Kilandre, his commanding officer. How was he supposed to address her? Aven got on his knees once more, pushing them together stiffly and straightening his back. "Forgive me, Major Kilandre, I do remember you. I seem to be suffering memory loss, but you have jogged it for me. Thank you, Ma'am." He suddenly felt exposed, and glanced down to see his naked body. Quickly, Aven covered his private organ, flushing red. "I apologize for my unsightly appearance, Major..."


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This hurt, far more then the wounds she sustained fighting Berserkers or Mages or Soldiers or anyone. Taking a breath, she covered her eyes, trying to keep him from seeing the tears falling thickly as she murmurs," It... it's alright, please- don't... Don't be sorry," she rasps, pushing herself to stand unsteadily, staggering over before having to support herself against a wall- bowing her head deeply. Pressing her face into both her hands now as her shoulder pressed into the stone wall, she takes a shuddering breath, trying to calm her spinning mind.

" G-... Go to the wardrobe- your clothes... They're... Still there," she manages, pointing to a closet at the far side of the room. She hadn't thrown aside his clothing, as they served as some conscious reminder that perhaps... She wasn't so alone when he was gone. Alas, there she rested, against the wall, back to her dead fiancee- or formerly fiancee, trying not to collapse into a sleep borne of shock and fatigue,

Aven rose quickly, a short panic in his movements as Hakon staggered against the wall. "Major, are you alright?" He placed his hands on her shoulders, feeling the warmth of her skin, and another flood of memories hit his conscious. Countless nights of Hakon's warm embrace, the soothing touch of skin on skin, falling asleep to the rhythm of her heart. His eyes widened. He and Hakon, they were...

Aven smiles gently, his eyes softening as he wraps his arms around her, embracing her. "Don't cry, I could never really forget you... Haki."


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His touch caused a whole new floor of emotion to pour through her- she couldn't stop the floodgates from flying open as she whipped around and buried her face into his neck, arms holding him tightly to her as her fingers curled into his long white hair. Her entire body trembled violently as soft whimpers shook her shoulders.

A year. A year of believing him to be dead, of grieving every day- holding onto nothing but a ring and memories of their time together and the possibility that they would never be together again. Every battle she had fought since seeing him be cut down by the Caster's Angel had been more and more vicious, she had grown more animalistic with each battle and used that primal fury to bury her grief... But when she was alone, planning, mapping, writing- thats when the grief hit her the hardest, when she had to leave, drink, come back and wrap up her work. But he was here- he was here with her... Thank God- Thank God-!

Aven stroked Hakon's platinum-blonde locks as she let out all her sadness, resting his cheek against her head. It was obvious she was crying because of him: he did leave her alone, after all. The memory of that blasted Demonlord, Caster, and his summons came forth, a blinding light from his Angel tearing through his flesh, disintegrating his body in an indescribable spike of agony... he should have died, by all accounts, the nature of his condition coming back to him in tandem. Dark matter... indeed, he was not a normal human, nor would be ever be. "It's alright, Haki, I'm back, I'm here..." He leaned down to kiss her cheek. "I'll always come back to you, no matter what. I'm so sorry that I left."


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It took several minutes to calm down, to press more firmly against him, her entire body relaxing though ovcasional shudders pass through her. At last, she succumbs to exhaustion, simply pressing against him, her lips locked against his collar before slowly looking up with red, teary eyes," What... What do you remember?" She rasps weakly, reaching up to touch his face with a trembling hand, still in disbelief. Perhaps holding onto her grief and burying it so deeply had at last driven her mad, and this was all a hallucination?

Aven placed his other hand on her cheek, running his thumb along the side of her face as he gazed into her tear stained eyes. "I... remember us. Matron's hollow, visiting my parents, visiting your estate." His eyebrows drooped. "Our run ins with Caster."

He glanced down at his finger, where Hakon's family ring was still present. "I was a wanderer, an outcast in this land of magic haters, and you found me, gave me a purpose, a calling as a member of Ansgar's hand." He smiles once again. "We were engaged."


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" You remember... Everything?" She questions cautiously, cupping his face in her hands, searching his eyes as her thumbs gently stroked his cheek. No- he didn't remember everything- did he remember his plans? This caused her to pause. If she didn't tell him.... Then it would be one less problem she would have to worry about later in the future- but if she didn't, it could effect his heart, his morales. She bit her lip, still. Searching his eyes.


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Aven laughs mirthfully, a happy gleam in his eyes. That same kindness she'd always known, his innate compassion for life pulsed steadily within them. There was also an unwavering trust within the silvery depths, not a single doubt that he was safe in her arms. Safe from the darkness...

Aven cradled Hakon a bit closer. "Everything: even how terribly inadequate a swordsman I am." He raised an eyebrow playfully, trying to lighten the mood. He could see conflict still within her eyes, for whatever reason, and he wanted to dispel any worries she may have. It was the least he could do after what he'd put her through. "So, what has my little Haki been up to while I was gone?"


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Squeezing his face, she pursed his lips and frowned deeply though it wasn't as if she could stay mad at him any longer," I- what kind of question is that, I saw you die!" She scolded, shaking him by his face," I saw you die! You weren't breathing, I- buried what was left of you! What do you mean I've been up to, you inconsiderate-?!" She sighs, glaring at him before kissing his fish-face deeply.

She would... Decide if he was truly alright later, he seemed to remember- most of it...


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Aven rocked back slightly from the force of her advance, but relaxed quickly into the embrace, becoming putty in her arms. It was like a dream, being free of that void and back with the love of his life, locked in a passionate kiss. There wasn't anything that mattered more, nothing in the world that he'd trade such a moment for. He surfaced to take a breath after a minute of the intensity, giggling despite himself. "What can I say, even the grave couldn't keep me away from you for long."


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His proclaimation made her sigh, her grasp on his face weaken and eventually fall into his arms aagin, her legs giving out as she embraced him tightly. The drunkenness, the shcok, everything catching up to her in the moment,"... I am just... So happy you're alive-" her voice cracked as darkness clawed at the edge of her vision, her hands relaxing their grip on his shoulders as she slowly began to sink down.

Aven's grin softened, and he scooped her up in his arms, lifting her with no trouble at all. Strangely, there were no black tendrils under his skin assisting in the endeavor. He kissed her forehead lightly. "I think it's time to rest, we can continue tomorrow." He carries her to the bed, a tendril of shadow emerging unbidden from his shadow and pulling the sheets back for Aven to set Hakon down, and lay down next to her. As the covers are pulled over the two of them, he snuggles up against her back, reveling in the knowledge that he was no longer alone. He had Hakon once more, and that was truly all he needed.


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The Sun Rose Hours Later...

But the pair remained undisturbed, as was expected for the General to be relatively hung over from the Grand Master's ball the night before. Hakon Kilandre had snuggled close into the chest of her lover, awakening with a sputter when she nearly inhaled a ball of his long hair. She sat up, coughing and spitting, her head throbbing. The previous night was a dream, she must have smoked something or drank something that gave her the illusion that he was-...

No, but there he was. Alive. She inhaling his hair and spitting, grimacing. She wanted to wake up, squeal and yelp like an excited colt but- she simply pressed her face into her knees, what if he wasn't... Whole? Dying and coming back was an unholy journey, an even unholier accomplishment... What could that possibly mean? What had he done to come back?


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Aven awoke from his blissful sleep to the sound of Hakon choking, and an odd tugging on his hair. His eyes opened groggily to the sight of Hakon pulling silver strands from her lips, contemplating something serious. There was something different about her now, he could tell from his memories: she was worn down, less trusting of the world, it seemed. He couldn't blame her: her fiancé had died before her eyes, then returned from the grave, it couldn't be easy to accept. Were it not for the only memory he had of the void, he wouldn't be able to accept it very easily, either.

A year earlier...

Darkness. Aven supposed it shouldn't surprise him, the light had been his enemy in life, even been his demise. The blackness of night should have been a comforting prospect: but this darkness was different. It was the eve of nothing, an eternal, lightless void. The darkness he knew was the absence of light: this was an existence in and of itself, an idea that he found frightened him.

A voice rang out through the void. So you have come. It was everywhere and nowhere, vibrating through his very being. He tried to answer, but found he could not. In fact, he could not feel his body to do so, and panic began to set in. This place has many names: the Void, the Dark, the Unknown, and I am its keeper, the Scion. Welcome to the realm of Dark Matter.

A small light shone from below Aven, prompting silence from the voice. The voice spoke no more, as if realizing something, leaving him to waste in the darkness, alone.


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Noticing her was awake, she immediately turned, squirming in the blankets as she draped herself overtop of him- pressing her lips to his neck, murmuring sweet nothing to him. She hugged him so tightly about the neck it was nearly suffocating. Her head hurt, she felt as if her nose was about to begin bleeding, all of this was surreal and she felt sick to her stomach because of that. Tilting her head upward, she again pressed her lips to his cheek, murmuring her 'good morning's and 'I love you's again and again. She wanted to forget the past year, though she had clawed her way to a rank no one woman had held before her, she was... Hollow during that time. The only fulfillment she had felt was during that spar with Zannrick Austengarde the night before his appearance, the thrill of perhaps a night- a lover- one that she refused to pursue. She was glad she had not fallen into Sir Austengarde's arms, though his companionship had assisted in closing the wounds she had felt completely.

Nonetheless, here he was, the love of her life.... In her arms,"... My Aven," she breathes his name, nuzzling his thick, silver mane," Where have you been?"


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Aven nuzzles back, giggling playfully as he massages her shoulders, choking slightly as she nearly squeezes the life he'd just regained away. He hesitates to answer her question, though, his gaze flitting away. "I was alone, in the void. I... don't want to talk about it." He didn't want to worry her, and to tell the truth, he wasn't sure on the details himself. The realm of Dark Matter... he would need to find out more before he could divulge that information to Hakon. He smiles once more, kissing her cheek. "I'm here now, we're together again."


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She cupped his face in her hands, her gaze flickering over him. A Void? That didn't sound good in the slightest," How did you get out? Get home?" She asks softly, worriedly, her head pounded. What if there was a way to escape death? This Void- was it what everyone experienced when they passed on? How horrible...

Her eyes glaze over slightly as thoughts race through her mind at a mile a minute, slowly she sank down beside him, pressing her face into his white mane.


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Aven cuddled closer, blushing as his chest pressed against her ample breasts. "I can't be certain how I escaped, but looking back, I'm certain it wasn't any afterlife normal beings would face: it had a sense of impermanence, like I wasn't meant to stay there."  His gentle smile attempted to pull her from her depressing thoughts. "There's no reason to worry, I did not need to make any deals or bargain with any demons. I simply reformed here, in the room, next to the-" Glancing over, Aven spotted the ring, and his eyes widened. "The ring. It... brought me back to you."


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She pauses and reaches over to retrieve the ring, rolling the platinum ring between her thumb and forefinger as she rested her hand over his chest,"... Your heart is in here, thats what you told me, so I've kept it here." She admits softly," Because- I... Felt more and more alone each time I touched it if I brought it with me," Looking down, she closes her eyes.

" I missed you, so much... Aven,"


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He clasped his hand over hers, enclosing the ring within her hand. "I suppose I could say I missed you, but it seems I was with you every night." He reached over and tilted her chin level to face him. "That's all I could ask for." He gazed into her eyes lovingly, and pressed his lips against hers in a soft kiss.


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She returns the kiss tenderly, but uncertainly. He had been dead, what if he was still dead? But he was warm- her hand unconsciously drifted to press against his chest, to find his heart. She wanted to be sure, no one had come back from death before- NO ONE. Had he really died? Had he gone somewhere else? Some other plane? Whatever it was, she wasn't sure if she wanted to know.

" Do you still have the ring I gave you?" She asks quietly


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Inside his chest, the rhythmic thump of his heart beat a happy tune. Aven nodded down to his left hand, where the Kilandre family heirloom rests on his ring finger. "I couldn't lose something so precious, could I? You kept the ring I gave you, it's only fair I do the same."

His thoughts wandered. It'd been a time since they'd exchanged those rings, shouldn't they...? Aven clasped his other hand over hers once more. "Haki... I think we should have the ceremony soon. I want to be by your side always, even in public. I couldn't stand keeping my distance once again, being apart from you simply isn't a sacrifice I'm willing to make anymore." His eyes are as earnest as his words, if not both a bit naive.


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Hakon's eyes flicker to his, she furrows her brow weakly," I... Aven- I..." she trails off before resting her cheek against his chest, how could she say this?

" Everyone believes you to be dead, if... You were to come back, what would we say?" She excuses weakly, looking back at him


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Aven's brow knitted, his mouth flatlining. Come to think of it, how did he come back? The laws of equivalent exchange were expressly violated when he reformed, it didn't make any sense... unless... Of course! Hakon said that I burst into particles: those particles must have regathered at the ring, since it was made from a piece of my heart!

Aven smiles once more, stroking Hakon's hair. "We'd tell them the truth: I wasn't actually dead, only lost, and held prisoner by Caster's magic. It's the truth, as I was captured by him once before, remember?" He winks slyly. He was a man of his word, but that didn't mean he couldn't structure his words accordingly.


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Hesitating further, she found this all so difficult to believe but nods shortly," But- please, lets be patient a little longer," reaching up, she squeezes his hand and sits up slowly, looking away," The war is nearly won, my love, give it a few more months and we can do it-"

She was... Uncertain what would happen when the war was won, what did Generals do in peace time? Politic? Oh... Oh dear. She grimaced slightly but flashed him a warm smile. Still- she was in shock, reaching up to stroke his cheek tenderly- still disbelieving he was truly there

Aven took note of the brief look of disgust on Hakon's face. Unbidden, a sad twinge of emotion shot through his chest. Did she... have someone else?

It was only natural, after all. Aven was unsure hoe long he'd been gone, but Hakon did look visibly matured somewhat. Since they never were married or had children, she may have been forced to find a different suitor. Could that be why... she wasn't wearing the ring?

Aven swallowed his emotions. It did make sense, but it wasn't his place to judge. He'd left her all alone for gods know how long, he couldn't blame her for seeking comfort. He adopted his normal smile after the brief shock, trying to act as though it were nothing. He wouldn't press the matter, it wasn't his to decide. "Alright, I can certainly wait till after the  war. Just promise me you'll stay safe, ok, Haki?"


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Pausing, she realized her face must have contorted in a way that caused him to... Grow worried. Smiling faintly, reassuringly, she shifted to straddle his chest, reaching down to cup his face in her hand as she presses her forehead against his,"... We're still engaged, so do not worry, I will stay safe as long as you do," she promises softly. Pressing her lips tenderly against his, she runs her hands through his long mane, musing softly," We'll have to get this cut though,"

Aven's heart beat a few ticks faster as she spoke, his worries washed away by her words. There were few things in his life he'd attribute to workings of the gods, at least in his favor, but Hakon was one of them. Whatever he did to deserve such a loving woman was beyond his understanding. Perhaps, he'd traded all the fortune in his life for her. If so, he'd make the same trade a thousand times over if need be, just to stay by her side.

A small chuckle escaped his lips as they parted from hers. "We can worry about appearances later. Right now," He wraps an arm around her back, propping himself up to draw her into another passionate kiss, before pulling their bodies together and bringing his lips to kiss her neck. "I want to make up for lost time."


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Tilting her head back to allow him more access to her neck, she closed her eyes- furrowing her brow slightly though a tiny smile curled her lips," How so?" She teases softly, carefully wrapping her arms about his slender torso. Her fingertips gliding up and down his back soothingly as she leaned back slightly- her mind still felt hazy, her temples felt clogged with cotton... Alas, the feeling of his skin beneath her hands was enough to throw a tidal wave of peace over her. Thank God- Thank God he was here, with her.

Aven planted a few more kisses on her collarbone before answering, rolling her over onto the mattress beside him playfully, and snuggling as close as possible, the heat of his body intermingling with hers. "By cuddling you tight and never letting go, my dear Major!" If possible, he'd follow through with the threat, too.


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Squealing with delight despite herself, she holds him tightly, nuzzling his thick hair as a giddy smile curls her lips. This joy she felt was almost enough to split her chest. God- God there had to be a divine being that could make her feel this way. Her legs wrapped tightly about his, arms hugging him as her fingernails dug into his back, dragging him as close to her as their bodies would allow.

" I love you, Aven- don't disappear on me again, dammit," she breathes, tears glinting in her eyes despite her words," Please- please-" her voice muffled by her rather harsh nuzzling.


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Aven allowed his legs to entwine with hers, wrapping his arms around her as the two of them became less than two people, but more than one. "I love you, too, Haki, I'm sorry for everything. It won't happen again, I promise!" The sentence echoes in his mind, reverberating through his being. He would keep that promise, no matter what, if only to never see Hakon cry like she had that night ever again. I'm a man of my word!


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She relaxed slowly, she could almost hear his promise. Always saying 'I am a man of my word', she could hear it even without his lips forming the phrase. Her fingers slowly laced through his hair as her muscles slowly uncoiled, pressing against hims lovingly as she carefully stroked out the knots in his hair. Her bright, gentle eyes searching his face as she falls to silence.

Several minutes of warmth and embracing later, she speaks, in a low, breathless voice," Close your eyes," her voice gentle and loving.


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Aven unwinded as Hakon wove her fingers through his silvery locks, running his fingertips along her back in a light massage. He failed to conceal a small, anticipatory grin at her order, and he complied without a word, her voice soothing him almost to the point of falling asleep once more. His lips stayed light parted as he awaited whatever Hakon had planned. He looked so innocent with that expression, it was almost laughable to think he was a powerful user of Dark Matter.


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She smiled, sitting up slightly as she remained laying against him, carefully threading her fingers through his hair once more. He was- the love of her life. And though she had been tempted, she would not fall in love with another. Leaning downward, her lips pressed lightly against his forehead, trailing down to peck his nose, lingering particularly upon his lips- down his chin, his throat, his chest- squirming slightly in the blankets as she made her path down his body. Pausing just above his naval as her hands idly massaged his flanks. She looked up, eyes glittering faintly in the dim light before she slid up him once more, leaning over to grasp the ring upon the desk- sliding it over her finger as she moved to straddle him- simply hugging him tightly," My love-" she sings quietly, laughing weakly.


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A bright smile spread over his features as she kissed him nearly head to toe, a few small giggles as she pecked his stomach, while her hands skillfully assaulted his most ticklish areas. "No, no, not there, Haki!" He opened his eyes to catch the twinkling hazel of Hakon's as she slid back up, a goofy grin on his face as he laughed, clear as a bell. That grin metamorphosed into a mischievous smirk. "So, that how you want to play it, huh, Haki? Have me let my guard down then strike?" His fingers traveled to her sides, where he proceeded to runs them playfully along her skin. "Let's see how you like it!"


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She arches an eyebrow, smirking faintly as he vainly attempts to tickle her into submission. Allowing him to try and search her body for a tickle-ish spot with a haughty snicker," You are weak and I am strong- I know all your weaknesses-" with a cat-like smirk, she brandishes her 'claws', crooking her fingers playfully at him as she sat upon his lap.

" Surrender or face my wrath," she giggles, sputtering with laughter more our of humor then stimulation.


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His eyes widened in surprise. He was no great shanks in human anatomy, but he'd been positive that spot was a sure fire tickle zone. As she proceeded to counterattack, h wracked his brain for further knowledge. He, himself, was terribly ticklish in many zones: in fact, she was most likely correct in her assertion that he was weak on the battlefield of a tickle fight.

Realizing that his only chance to win would be to outmaneuver her, Aven beckoned forth four shadow tendrils under the covers, which brushed lightly along her feet. Aven glanced up at his overconfident superior officer, a triumphant smirk evident on his features. "You've underestimated my abilities, Haki!"


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She squeals and quickly begins to flail, attempting to scramble away to escape from the tendrils. Quickly rolling onto her side, she attempts to distract him by mercilessly assaulting his side, still squirming and squeaking," Thats not fair! You can't use Dark Matter!"


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He rolls instinctively on top of her, laughing uncontrollably. "All's fair, don't- ahahaha!- give me that!" The tendrils sought out her feet, her body then trapped under his weight. The tendrils stopped, however, as Aven blushed, his mind distracted momentarily as his hand had been trapped grasping Hakon's breast under his bulk. The rosy color invaded his cheeks as mercilessly as her attack.


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Immediately, her face flushes a deep red, the blush spreading over the bridge of her nose like wildfire as she protests with a soft laugh," Now thats just unfair-" her soft voice a vague purr as she bites her lip and looks away again. Her hands rested flat upon his stomach, slowly curling into loose fists as she giggles despite herself- her toes curling and lower body squirming to escape the tendrils.


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Aven slowly lowered his body down to hers, his eyes glistening. Hakon was so cute when she blushed, he couldn't help himself. "Haki..." he breathed, pressing his lips to hers in a deep, loving kiss. The tendrils receded back to whence they came, and his knees sank into the mattress as he straddled her, gently massaging her breast as his other hand kept him propped up, their skin less than an inch apart.


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" Aven-" she hums in response, biting her lip. That damn look her gave her only causing her to flush a further shade of red as she leans upward into his kiss, her hands wrapped about his back as she drew closer to him- entire body shuddering with his small movements. An entire year without such attentions would leave one utterly wanting- and desperate. Her eyes fluttered shut as a soft sound of pleasure lifts from her throat, pressing her lips more firmly against his. God- she missed him so much-


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Drawn in by her arms, he deepened the kiss, his tongue dancing with hers as their bodies pressed tightly together. His hand traveled downward from her breast, resting on her clit, which he teased back and forth following the flits and darts of their tongues. Down below, his more private appendage became stiff, pressing high against her stomach. He may have lost his memories, but his body seemed to remember just fine, and he could feel himself pent up, all the time in the darkness, alone, drawing out a near primal need to show how much he cared for Hakon, to kiss her until the two of them ran out of breath to spare.


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The slightest touch upon the sensitive flesh caused her squirming to pause and movements to freeze a moment, a sudden flash of warmth and desire quickly blasting through her as she stiffles a small gasp. Pressing her hips unconciously into his hand, her body reacting to its need to simply feel him- to know instinctively that her mate was truly with her.... It was utterly intoxicating. Her thighs part slightly to make way for his hand as one of her own rests around the back of his neck, drawing him closer.

" Aven- I- missed you so much-" she breathes rather huskily, her voice low, as if afraid someone would hear. It was all she could do to keep from gasping out her desires- but she wanted to enjoy this moment with him.

Aven could almost feel the desire radiating from her body, the tremors that coursed through her body at his touch. The intoxicating scent of her breath as she whispered to him, her tone beckoning to relieve her. It was his fault she was in such a desperate position, he would make it right.

He leans down further, pecking her cheek in passing, before lightly nipping at her ear, his hot breath right beside her. "Will you accept me, Haki?"


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His words alone caused her to tremble once and groan quietly," Always- Always-" her voice a mewl of desire and affection as she turns her face to press her lips tightly against his. Her body began to move of its own accord, her arms wrapped tightly about his back as her legs aprt, body begging for him. Admittedly- she could not stop blushing, her dark skin flushed a vague rosy color due to it. But she couldn't help it- each time they made love seemed akin to the first, only they began to grow more and ore adventureous.

Her soft reply was all he needed, accepting the embrace of her lips and they become even further entangled. His eyes closed instinctually as they kissed, though not missing the need in hers. She'd been waiting for him, it was time to make her patience worth the pain.

He drew back his hips, allowing his member to slide past her naval and clit, resting at her entrance. No second thought was needed as their kiss intensified, and he thrust into her, a good six inches traveling within and parting the soft flesh. A small moan escaped his throats at the tightness as she clamped around him, but it was buried in the heat of their embrace.


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" Ah~" her lips parted as she gasps, biting her lip before exhaling and relaxing slowly. It was almost too much as her head sank back against the pillows of the bed, eyes fluttering open briefly before closing once more. One of her hands idly snakes downward, pressing flat against her stomach as she allows her body to adjust - it had been so long... It felt new again.

Shifting her hips into his gently, she pressed her legs together slowly, squeezing him as she leaned upward. Hakon's lips lovingly and heatedly pressing against his neck, his shoulders, his face- conveying months of pent up desire and grief- all for him.


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Aven gasped as she tightened further, clamping down on him. He returned the shower of kisses just as heatedly, expressing his love and admiration for her, wordlessly thanking her for waiting for him despite her loneliness. As soon as the pressure from her hip relinquished, he pulled out slowly, and began to thrust in and out rhythmically, his heart beating ever faster. This time was different than the others, by the fact that there was no sense of battle, no losing or winning: it was simply the two of them becoming one, sharing in each other's love, pain, grief, and everything the other could possibly offer. He returned his lips to hers almost greedily, desperate to feel her kiss once more as they drew closer and closer together.


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Cupping his face in her hands, she leaned upward into his embrace once more- kissing her lover once more deeply, passionately. It was all she could do to keep from falling into her more primal self and utterly submitting. She loved him far too much to do that yet- she had to stay human long enough to show him how much she truly loved him. The first thrust caused her to pull away and gasp, ducking her head. It had been so long- she was thankful for the slow pace, slowly her hips pressing upward into his in response, relishing the feel of him inside her. Ah- it was all she could do to keep her voice down to soft, muffled moans that were stifled by her mouth pressing into his shoulder.




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Aven smiled softly, his gaze holding a multitude of feelings for Hakon he didn't have the words to say. How could mere words convey that she was his reason to exist, his whole world? They could not, not if he had a million years to do so.

After a few intense minutes of the slow pace, Aven's hips began to pick up speed. He restrained himself as much as he could, but her walls seemed to pull him deeper with each thrust, beckoning him to give in to his own desire. Indeed, he didn't know just how much longer he could keep himself in check.


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Releasing an audible gasp, biting her limp to attempt to stifle her quiet cries, Hakon leans upward, pressing her face into his neck. Trembling faintly as her muscles contract with each forward movement of her partner, she begins to swivel her hips into his. Pressing him, deeper, further into her - it was becoming too much, her hands curling in the sheets as she squirms and moans, begging him breathlessly," Please-..."

She was unable to meet his eyes, so bashful as she was. But with the small gestures - the soft butterfly touches, the way her body contorted against his to draw him closer - that was enough to convey her love and affection for him, even if words refused to bubble from her throat.

With a labored breath, Aven thrust as deep as he could, hilting himself within her as she twisted and bucked under him. Her contraction brought him ever closer, he could feel the inevitable rising moment by moment. A small chuckle escaped his lips at the embarrassed tinged of red painting her cheeks, and he kissed her left cheek gingerly, huskily whispering assurance. "Ah...Haki... together?"


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Hakon turned his face away, though a small smile curled her lips, causing her to chuckle softly though it was interrupted by another delighted gasp. She wrapped one arm about his neck, drawing him closer as she captured his lips with own for a long moment, her tongue gently probing his- teasing him. When she pulled away, her tongue protruded ever so slightly from her lips as she flashes a playful wink," Together~" she answers quietly, her voice a mere breath of wind.

His words caused a shiver of anticipation to drive through her, she wanted him so badly. Arching her back, her legs wrapped about his torso, drawing him closer as her toes curled.

Aven gritted his teeth as pressure built up in his groin. She was teasing him, that little scamp: but then again, that was just one more thing he loved about her. His smile returned as the pressure was relieved, releasing a load directly against her deepest recesses. He relaxed down into her side, exhausted, drawing her lips into another soulful kiss. "I love you, Hakon..."


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The pressure that built within her lowerbody from his release caused the young woman to utter a quiet cry, her back arching and fingers grasping at the sheets as she buried her face against her arms- one hand clawing the sheets above her head as the other grasped his shoulder tremblingly. Her bright eyes flutter shut as warmth snaps free - her muscles cramping briefly as her body shudders with pure, blinding pleasure.

Slowly, slowly Hakon relaxes, gasping and staring up at him- but laughs weakly, pressing her palm to his cheek," I love you- so much,"

Aven rolled onto his back, searching through the covers to find her hand, and clasped it in his own. His hands were as soft and scarless as they'd always been, but Hakon would sense a strength that was not present before, as, though his grasp was still gentle, he was noticeably restraining himself. Aven himself noticed the change with slight intrigue, but such was a matter he could explore at a later time. He brings his other arm to wrap around her, along with his leg, cuddling closer to her, his muscles still visibly rippling from the intense session. He gazed deep into her eyes with a grin, a few small black particles escaping into his irises. "So, what are we doing today?"


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Steadying her breathing slowly, the young woman squeezed his hand affectionately, moving closer to him. Opening her eyes at his words, she smiles vaguely," I have the next day or so off- we could... Do anything," she hums softly, though perhaps it would be too much to hope for that she would have more then one day off without something being called to her attention.


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Aven reluctantly separated himself from Hakon's embrace, and peeled the sheets away from his body, rising from the bed. "We shouldn't waste daylight, then, come on!" He made his way over to the wardrobe she'd pointed out the night before that held his clothes, but after he pulled them out, he paused. It was his usual noblewear, that much he could recall, though the cape seemed to be missing.

A vein in his forehead bulged as he stared at the cloth. How... do I put this on? He couldn't recall ever dressing himself normally, to his recollection, he'd always used his Dark Matter abilities to dress himself. It looked to be a multitude of complex, interwoven silk, he couldn't make heads or tails of how he'd get into it without ripping the fabric, especially when the inner cloth around the waist would obviously fit tightly around him. His brow furrowed increasingly for a minute while he wracked his brain, until finally, he turn to Hakon pitifully. "How do I put this on again?"


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Sitting up to observe him, she quirked an eyebrow as he seemed to struggle with finding out how a shirt worked. Rolling her eyes with a soft laugh, she rose to her feet, not at all minding her own nudity in the privacy of her quarters. The scars that littered her shoulders thickly and the rest of her body sporadically seemed to be further highlighted by the dimness of the room as she strides over, showing him how to unfasten the collar of the shirt and assist him in putting the light fabric on," You're like a child-" she comments softly, but warmly, standing briefly on her toes to kiss his cheek,"-  but thats alright... What else have you forgotten, I wonder?"


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Aven blushed in embarrassment as she taught him basic skills even a child would know by heart, shying into the garments and sulking in the corner of the room as she dressed. "If I knew the answer to that, I wouldn't exactly have a problem, would I?" Even though he'd seen them countless times before, the scars were still a harrowing sight: not in the way that they would detract from how he viewed her beauty, but how he gauged his job at protecting her. Each new knick in her form spelled a failure for him, each an instance where he wasn't there to protect her from the cruel nature of the world. That alone tore his heart to pieces, and if he were logistically able to stay within her shadow and protect her from all harm, he wouldn't hesitate to do so. Not that she would allow him, of course.


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Smiling faintly, she grasped his shoulders," Well then- we may as well run through everything about you before moving forward any more, would that be alright?" she inquires softly, quirking an eyebrow.

Aven laughs, a grin spreading over his face at the idea. "A seminar on the subject of Aven Alveron, huh? I assume my proctor will be his lovely fiancé, Major Hakon Kilandre, herself?" He plopped down on the bed, gazing expectantly at her. "Then, tell me, professor, what do I not know about myself?"


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She sighs and rests her hands upon her hips, shifting to pace before him before sticking a finger in his face with a small smile," Now, now, don't sass me when we've just begun, eh?" she hums and shakes her head slowly.

" What do you remember of your childhood? Your family?" she asks softly

Aven shakes his head. He came up blank on his family, save their last name. He couldn't even match faces to them, let alone remember his rearing. The earliest he could remember was seven years, shortly before he left his home to wander, and even those memories were hazy at best. "I don't... remember anything about them. I know that you met them with me, but their names, their faces, even my childhood, it's all blank." The smile he'd wore was all but faded, replaced by a solemn bow of his head. It was cruel to forget, maybe crueler than death, in a sense.


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She offers a small smile, striding over and resting one hand beneath his shin- the callouses though hard offering infinite tenderness as she tilts his head upward," Do not fret, my love- let me tell you about your parents, about your home, we can even write a letter to your parents," she assures him, kneeling before him- now the patchwork of scars clearer then ever as she settled in that small pool of light.

Her shoulders were a patchwork of scars, cuts and skin long since rubbed away by heavy straps and armor. Her hands were cut, rough yet infinite feminine in their delicate handling. Her torso and back were all but covered in marks of lashings, ghosts of bruises, memories of pain. The worst was upon her thigh, her left leg all but missing a large chunk of flesh- a gnarled crater left from whatever attacked her.

Yet still she smiled with all the love in the world for him. And him alone.

Aven's eyes glistened in the light as they took in fully her form, and smiled gently at her words. "What did I do to deserve you, Hakon?" He swiveled his head to rest his cheek against the warmth of her hand. It didn't matter to him how many scars she accrued, he only saw the beauty of her form as he always had, and felt the tenderness of her heart. That was what drove him.


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Her thumb briefly strokes his cheek as she murmurs softly," Absolutely nothing, it's quite incredible how much you owe me," she teases quietly. Resting her hands upon his knees, she fell into a thoughtful silence," Well- I'll tell you what I know of your childhood, we'll have to run through everything I suppose-" and with that, she began to tell him what she knew of his parents: what the looked like, their past, what they did, trying to assist him in regaining memory.


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Aven listened to his own past with a sort of aloof interest. It was an awkward situation, to say the least, to hear his life told to him in segments, and even more do when those segments sparked a flash of recollection. A few times, Aven had hurried her through parts, though graciously, as he'd already remembered some.

By the end, most of his childhood had returned to the forefront of his conscious, including a particularly riveting memory of donning clothes the normal way. To say he was bitter at the prospect of needing to be shown such would be an overstatement, but it would not be false.

Aven relaxed his head onto Hakon's shoulder as she finished, sighing. "Thank you, Haki... I can't believe I forgot my parents, my childhood friends... everyone." For the first time in his life, Aven felt a real fear of death. Before, it was simply an inevitability, one that he knew he'd eventually face. But with the knowledge that he may return after death each time, without memories? The prospect terrified him, a possibility that he could end up forgetting everyone he knew and loved, even become a different person. He shifted closer to Hakon, a worry blatant on his face. "What if this is my fate? To be reborn without memories whenever I die, for the rest of eternity? I'm... I'm scared, Hakon."


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She fell silent, she couldn't imagine that sort of fate. Her brushes with death were terrifying each and every time, new and horrible in its own way. But she wouldn't allow him to know her fears, gently resting her hand upon his cheek, she smiles faintly," But you remember, don't you? You're remembering now, I can tell- this is not your fate, my love, it is not..."

Aven breathed softly, her touch enough to calm him. " You're right, I suppose I'm just shaken from recent events. Thank you, Haki." He makes to attempt to separate himself, instead snuggling closer to her side. He'd tried to be strong, and hide his uncertainty, his fear, but after spending do much time alone, that strength vastly weakened, spent in attempts to retain sanity. Would he ever be the man he was before, someone who could face the terrors if the night without flinching? He couldn't say.


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Leaning forward, she pressed her lips to his forehead, settling closer to him. His presence was a relief and strengthened her perhaps more then he could have possibly imagined. Ironic how his weakened return caused her a spike in fortitude. Running a hand through his long hair, carefully untangling the knots - she tilts her head softly," We can keep moving through what you remember, you were a revolutionary when we first met, remember?" She flashes him a tiny smile. She would tell him... Hakon felt it defined him as an individual, after all. To take that from him would be to have only half of the Aven she loved and lost.


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Aven's eyes opened wide as memories flooded his mind. A revolutionary... he remembered: his plans, the people he'd been assembling, Grand Duke Calent! It'd been his purpose before he met Hakon, his motivation. He wasn't a soldier, he'd joined Ansgar's Hand to find Mordecai that would help him against Calent, as well as to be closer to Hakon. It all made sense as the gaps in his memory were filled, and his silvery eyes closed, a seriousness setting into his voice, as he sat up to face her. "Hakon. Why would you remind me of such a thing?" It wasn't that he didn't want to remember, far from it. The problem was, he couldn't help but feel she was violating her own personal code for his his sake, a burden he didn't want Hakon to carry in addition to the others he'd thrust upon her. "Are you not the Major of Ansgar's Hand? You could have simply let me believe that I was a soldier, and kept me by your side. Why?" By the tone in his voice, Hakon would be able to tell that his confidence was back, his drive.


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Hakon gazed at him for a moment, pulling away slightly as she rests her hands idly upon his stomach, biting her lip for a moment,"... Because I am selfish," she answers quietly," Because I want all of the man I fell in love with, who I promised myself to, not just half of him. But always know-" she reaches up and strokes his cheek,"- if you attempt to continue, I will stop you," her voice was low, a deadly promise though there was quite a bit of... Hesitance in her words. She would do anything to protect the state of Connlaoth, but she was unsure if she would be able to fight him if it came to that.

" I am a General. So now more then ever, I will."

Her answer caused no reaction for a short while, as though Aven were pondering the merits. Then, with no warning, he wrapped an arm around her waist, and the pulled her up against himself, kissing her deeply without a word edgewise. That was the resolve he wanted to hear, the mark of the woman he'd fallen desperately in love with. She hadn't really changed a bit, despite an impressive promotion, and he couldn't be happier about the idea.

After their lips parted, he gave her a sly grin. "Hmm, is that so? You're gonna stop me, eh? You really are selfish, giving me back my little hobby and then forbidding me to practice it." He tickled her cheek playfully. "Glad to see you haven't changed, Haki."


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Flashing a small smile, she playfully nips at his finger," It's all for my self-righteousness I assure you," she muses quietly. Tilting her head to one side as she takes a quick breath and flashes a smile," I can't... Think of anything more you might have missed,"

Aven places a hand on his chin thoughtfully, raising an eyebrow and pouring his lips out in a mock-scholarly fashion, then has a fake epiphany. "That's right, I also forgot how to tie shoes!" He grins, nuzzling his nose with hers before rising, stretching out his shoulders and back. "I'm only jesting, I think you're correct. There aren't any more fogs in my head, I remember everything I should." He glances back at her. "Thanks to my lovely Haki."


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She blushes vaguely, her bright eyes flickering as she searches his face- lovingly stroking his cheek as she closes her eyes- nuzzling her nose against his briefly as she cups his face in her hands," Of course- but tell me, do you wish to keep your lion's mane or shall we shear it?" she playfully laces her hands through his hair, if her hair even grew at half the rate in a year, she would be all hair and no body, surely. The thought made her giggle softly.

Aven raised an eyebrow, remembering that his hair was a veritable mop. He chuckled softly, fishing her hands out of the silver locks and clasping them in his and pinning them to the bed, pulling her body against his. His hair began to dissolve into particles from the ends onward, and he kissed her briefly once more, nothing more than a peck, but by the time he'd withdrawn, the hair was back to the length it'd always been, and he relinquished one of her hands to riffle it up.

He shot  her a winning smile. "I like better this way: it would only hinder combat otherwise."


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She smiles and tilts her head to one side slowly, observing this- he never ceased to amaze her. Pulling her knees to her chest as she tilts her head," Then shall we get moving? I think we may as well slowly introduce you back to the world, it is not often men come back from the grave, you know."

Aven nodded, rising and letting her other hand free. "That's true, but how exactly should we go about it? As a general in the military, you have significant influence, is your word alone not enough?" He shuffled slightly in his posture. It was the first he'd thought about it, but he felt stronger than he remembered being. Significantly so, if fact, to the point that it was throwing off his balance. Odd.


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" You have a grave," she murmurs softly, glancing at him," Words alone would not be enough, we would have to fabricate a story and I may sign off on it as true from reliable sources. No one, not even your parents should know the truth..." she shoots him a small, weak smile," For the sake of their feelings for you, as their beloved son,"

Aven looked away, furrowing his eyebrows as the gentle light faded from his eyes. He wasn't a fan of deception, even when necessary. "Fine. Do what you have to, Hakon, but know that I don't approve. Politics may be a part of your life now, but you don't need to think like them, too." He glanced back. "A few well placed truths will always fair better than even the most perfect of lies. Remember that." A small huff of air left his nostrils as he exited the room. "I'll be waiting outside the door for you to dress." The door shut not too quietly behind him, his displeasure evident. It wasn't misplaced, either: Hakon would have enemies as a general, even within the political landscape of Connloath, those who would see themselves take her place, or perhaps eliminate opposition to certain plans. As her husband, he would be a prime target, and if there was even a single hole in the story she fabricated, everything would come crashing down on her. To say that she would be court marshaled would be an understatement: if they found out she was harboring a mage, and a powerful one at that, she might very well be sentenced to death.

He cracked his knuckles, a glower on his face. Not that they would succeed in such a feat.


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Hakon watched him leave with surprise, biting her lip as she settled back upon the bed, closing her eyes- bowing her head. Not that anyone would believe he would simply come back from the dead, the story had to be good, even if it made him look bad in the eyes of those who dared to look into it. She ran a hand through her hair, it wouldn't be wise to even go out until the story was made and spread about- alas... She curled her hand into a fist, watching her knuckles turn white about the black ring upon her finger. She couldn't keep him here like a dirty secret. What happens, happens.

Steeling herself, she moved to get dressed and soon exited the room, offering him a weak smile," Lets go, shall we?" she asks softly

Aven's eyes became downcast after only a few more seconds of thinking. Right as he may be, it wasn't fair to Hakon for him to blow up like he did. She was under enough stress as it was, especially as a general, and he was supposed to lighten her load, not pile strife onto it. Besides, it wasn't as if she were stupid, Hakon could come up with something good for a coverup. After all, there was no record of him anywhere for an entire year: it would be impossible to ascertain proof against their story so long as she didn't cite any sources.

As Hakon emerged, Aven smiled gently, and took her arm in his. "I'm sorry, Haki, I didn't mean to get so angry. I just worry about you, but I trust you with all my heart, and I know you'll do great."


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Hakon seemed relatively surprised by his apology, but paused and smiled lovingly, carefully wrapping her arms about his neck, her hands cradling the back of his head as she looks into his silver eyes. The particles that danced in his irises had long since ceased to disturb her, and had only added to the beauty she found in him," It's alright, I bet... It's not easy being dead too," she answers light heartedly.

His words meant the world to her, and until this was all under control, she would need to do her damnedest to place the pieces of the puzzle together as best she could. It was enough stress to cause both of them to break. But she knew they would thrive... They always did.


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Aven laughs at her response, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling it tight to his own. He gazed lovingly into those hazel-grey stars or hers, the same that had enchanted him countless times before. "To tell you the truth, it's probably easier braving the void than it is sucking up to a crowd of blowhard nobles. At least in the darkness, you don't have to hear idiotic prattle." He was tempted to set his lips to hers once more, but he hesitated, stopping to considere the merits. If he could kiss her for the rest of time, he'd jump at the chance, but he didn't know if she felt the same about that in particular. Such things may get old for her, and he didn't want to force himself on her. "Haki, you don't get tired of kissing, do you?"


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" Trust me, I am thinking I need to be a little more then simply buzzed in order to get through some of the nonsense I've had to deal with." She chortles lightly, shifting in his arms to gaze at him more lovingly, her eyes brightening considerably," If I got tired of kissing, I would be as cold as stone- don't ever let that happen, please?" She murmurs, leaning upward slightly to kiss him in turn, hugging him about the neck warmly.


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Aven smiles wider, leaning into the kiss. "My pleasure..." Could she be any more perfect? The question lingered absently in his mind and her lips washed other meaningless thoughts such as worries or fears away. It was all he could do not to buckle under the softness of her lips, and the gentle caress of her arms around him. He soon became lost in the embrace, caring not for accomplishing anything that day. Perhaps they could just go back to the room, and stay locked against each other for a while longer...


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Hakon's tired and still dazed mind instantly seems to follow his path of logic- she just wanted to sleep and cuddle... Enthusiastically if the occasion arose. As she pulled away, she rested her face against his neck, gently pushing his back against the wall of the hallway, embracing him tightly,"... I won't lose you," she murmurs suddenly, her voice muffled and quiet," I won't-"

Aven tightened his own grip on her, as though the world would attempt to rip the two apart. His voice was a hot breath in her ear. "I won't get lost again, either... maybe we don't need to rush this, seeing as I'm not going anywhere?" His hand traveled down to her lower cheeks, gripping one of them provocatively. His eyes glistened as he pecked a kiss onto her temple, his voice husky a soft. "Business can wait... I want you pressed against me just like this, Haki."


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As he spoke, her lips pressed against his collar and throat, leaving soft, tingling trails where herlips had made heated contact. A quiet smile curled her lips as she sighs faintly. She had no idea just how bent up she had been, it was rather incredible and infuriating simultaneously. Her hands curl about his back, massaging the muscle there as she mutters humorously," We may as well just stay locked in that room for the rest of the day, eh?" Chuckling quietly as she pressed more firmly against him, giggling quietly.

Aven chuckled, kissing her neck and rotating their bodies, pushing Hakon lightly against the wall in return, right next to the door. He kissed her cheek, then her chin, then her neck. "I'm glad you agree..."  The door creaked open without them touching it, Hakon maybe catching the brief sight of a tendril receding back into the darkness. Aven practically carried her into the room, regaling her with light pecks and sweet nothings as a tendril closed the door behind them, before they both fell onto the bed.

Aven grins softly, immediately immersing himself in her lips as he shifted on the mattress, pulling her body closer to his own.


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Laughing softly, she presses closer, already her fingers beginning to deftly release him from his shirt," Aven~" pressing her face against his neck, she nuzzled his throat lovingly - simply repeating his name in a sweet mantra. The realization had yet to settle, she was almost afraid he would disappear again, causing her to press to him more tightly.


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"Haki..." He breathed her name, the mere sound of it intoxicating to him. His lips blazed a path down her body as he helped her out of her clothes in turn, the two of them twisting and intertwining as they shed the barriers that impeded their skin to touch. His lips eventually found their way to her breasts, where he began to suckle greedily, savoring to taste of her flesh. His hands wandered aimlessly, massaging and gripping her body seemingly at random.


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Occasionally, the movements they made turned to an Awkward pause as they squirmed from an especially stubborn sleeve or button. Hakon would laugh softly in these moments, offering him back a rain of kisses as she drew ever closer, eventually straddling his waist as her knees hugged his body closely. In response to his attentions, she almost immediately flushed a deep red, her arms carefully wrapping about his head as her body arched with the stimulation of sensitive flesh - causing a soft gasp to ride from her throat which she quickly stifled by placing her hand over her lips. Simultaneously, her other hand trailed down his chest, feather-light touch a sign of holding back as she traces patterns upon his pectorals and abdomen, trailing carefully down to the hem of his pants.

Perhaps she was impatient, or simply a year of utterly no action was getting to her. Ah- she'd know soon enough.


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The tingling of her fingertips along his chest caused Aven to laugh softly, coming up for a breath from her tit. He switched his attention to the other, bringing up his hands to massage them as his tongue darted along the surface. His member, already having been stiff for some time, twitched in anticipation as Hakon's hand neared the area.


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Squirming in his group, exhaling in quick, sporadic gasps- Hakon shifts slightly off of him, one leg still hooked about his waist as her hand trails down to grasp his member. Her fingertips idly teasing the highly sensitive flesh as she hooks one arm behind his neck, leaning downward to press her lips to his head. Shivering faintly as her hips work unconsciously. Even as she whispered sweet nothings, her more primal instincts caused her to shift against him, struggling to not simply pounce atop him

Aven was forced onto his back once more as she shifted to face his lower section, a slight pout forming as he hadn't been finished with her wonderful breasts. Ah...! Her lips were so soft on the sensitive tip, he couldn't help but release a small gasp of pleasure.

He leaned up off the bed and showered her body with kisses, tracing the scars on her body fondly. Each told a story, and while they were failures of his to protect her, they were also proof of her efforts, proof that she lived. He spoke gently in between kisses and heavy breaths. "Haki, you're so beautiful... everything about you," He traced the gash in her thigh lightly, "Down to the last detail."


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Hakon blushed profusely, unable to answer or perhaps too embarrassed to in the first place - her tongue lightly tracing along the sensitive flesh of his member. Her bright eyes flickering to his face - the slight part of his lips, the heavy blush across his skin, the way his chest rose and fell deeply, the way her looked at her. It all was overwhelming, in a wonderfully warm way. Nonetheless, she flashes him a small smile, chuckling weakly as she nuzzles his stomach briefly before returning her attentions back to his member. Random shudders passed through her body, causing her to gasp slightly.

Aven's member twitches randomly as she services it, along with his brow at the same intervals. Perhaps it was his imagination, but she was much better than he remembered at that... they'd been apart so long that both of them couldn't get enough of the other. He shifted as her tongue passed over the tip, the odd sensation of wanting her to continue, but also escape the embarrassing action. His hands strayed, one to her breast to massage, and the other to her own lower section, two fingers sliding in, and beginning to pump as the blood rushed more and more to his groin.


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Unable to bare the prolonged teasing much longer- she pressed her lips to the head member one last time, slowly drawing away as her tongue flickered across the sensitive flesh one last time. Making a small sound of surprise as his fingers press into her, she ducks her head and stifles a smile, a soft sound. Her back arches and muscles briefly coiling as her thighs press together, squeezing his hand as she turns to him, breathless, flushed and asking quietly," Ma... May I..?" Her voice quiet, quavering as she shifts her body toward his- she wanted more. Perhaps she was greedy and impatient. Hm- but it had been so long-


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Aven blushed further, but leaned forward and smiled, kissing her deeply as he shifted, allowing her to position over the shaft. Breathlessly, he recedes from paradise of her lips. "Of course... I belong to you, remember?"

Under her sex, Aven's miniature twitched excitedly, a mind of it's own. Specifically, Aven had shifted his body to prop himself up, in order to keep himself from thrusting upward in desire. He'd taken the lead last time, it was Hakon's turn, no matter how much his other half wanted it. They would go at her pace. He took the chance, however, to once again lean forward and latch his mouth onto her breast happily, the sweet taste of her skin gracing his tongue.


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Leaning over him, both her hands rest upon either side of his head flatly as she leans down, smiling affectionately at him. As she was about to reply, he latches onto her breast, quickly her mouth shuts and she utters a quiet laugh, hugging him to her chest as she slowly lowered herself atop him, shifting her hips comfortably as she felt him slowly penetrate- a soft moan rising from her throat as she instinctively squeezes his length- muscles tightening faintly in protest. She stopped and simply held him still, just wishing to tease him a moment- just let him wait.

Nuzzling her face into his hair as he latched upon her chest, she begins to slowly flex her thighs and hips, raising herself before pushing herself back down- drawing him in and out with torturous slowness.

Aven whimpered into her breast as she trapped him there, his member throbbing impatiently. She was going so slow! It was almost as if she was moving at a snail's pace to tease him, keeping him suckling on her tit to prevent him from thrusting upward. Aven was stuck, completely at her mercy, pacified by the mesmerizing allure of her bust. The idea of helplessness, to his surprise, was not unpleasant, and his member hardened a bit more, still begging for a faster tempo. Aven wrapped his arms around her, an embarrassed moan escaping his throat as she repeatedly rose and fell painstaking slow.


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Smiling faintly, snickering at her own mischief, she begins to work her hips more into his, each movement becoming increasingly swift. Her nails dig lightly into his back, dragging him closer with each sweeping movement of her hips. With a soft laugh, she buried her face into his hair, murmuring softly," Do you... Want something?" Her voice a teasing purr.

Aven whimpered, managing to detach his mouth from her breast long enough to answer. "Yeah..." He sighed the words out, his sentence interrupted by a thrust down on his throbbing member. "Mmmm..." She'd picked up speed, clamping down on him extremely hard. He couldn't respond any more, being brought steadily closer to climax with her relentless onslaught. She'd made him nearly beg to go faster, then delivered with prejudice. Hakon was playing his fiddle like a fiddle. Another thrust coaxed a cute little moan from his lips again.


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She giggles despite herself, flushed and utterly breathless- she gently pushes him onto his back, her own arching rather elegantly as she continued to idly draw herself up and down his frame- slowing down every so often just to ensure he wasn't particularly bored.


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He thumped back onto the mattress, devoid of strength as her passage masterfully stroked his shaft, coaxing him to give in to his instincts, let his primal side take over. The pull was hard to resist as Hakon's breast bounced enticingly before his eyes, his rod begging for release. However, Hakon started to alternate her pace, keeping him from climaxing. Every cycle, he would get so close, only for her to slow, and bring his appendage to a ball aching halt as it continued to build up. Where did she learn how to do this? It was torture, but... it only turned him on further, periodic gasps and whimpers escaping his mouth as he voiced his begrudging approval.


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She eventually began to feel a slight pinch in her stomach, a pleasant tightening sensation that only expanded as she teased him, her hands resting flat upon his chest as she worked and played with him at her leisure. A rather violent shudder passes through her, causing her to gasp audibly and tremble, her body tensing before relaxing slowly. With a small smile, she leans downward with a smile, her lips pressing against his ear,"... Please~" she hums, warm breath brushing over his skin as she worked her hips firmly against his, goading him to the edge a final time.


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Aven's hips bucked of their own free will the moment she gave him permission, and within a few thrusts, Aven was at his peak. He leaned up to kiss her, burying his shaft as deep as possible as a massive load of cum shot from the tip, drawing a deep sigh of release from Aven. It pulsated several times, the load split into multiple shots by its volume.

The moment it was over, he slumped back into the bed, utterly drained. He'd milked him for every drop he had in one go, even his regenerative abilities couldn't keep up with that kind of volume.


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Pressing her lips against his rather hard, stifling the soft sound of delight as she feels a suddenly pressure snapping in her womb. Akin to a knot suddenly being intangled- she quivers once, body tensing before slowly relaxing atop him- a small sheen of sweat covering her skin as she rests her face in the sheets beside his head- quivering every so often with delight

Aven's chest heaved as he recovered from the intense bought, wrapping an arm around Hakon and kissing her face and neck absently. Finally, he caught eye contact, and he laughed with a grin. "You know, you're a naughty girl, teasing me like that."


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Chuckling softly into the sheets, she turns her head slightly to gaze at him, slowly sliding off- shivering once as she snuggled ahainst his side, hugging his arm gently,"... It's fun that way though," she answers softly, chuckling breathlessly as she looks up at him.

He leaned onto his side, facing Hakon, inches away from her face, a little grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Well, I'll tell you what: give me a kiss, and we'll call it even." He really couldn't get enough of her lips, there was simply something divine about the way she pressed against him when they kissed, it was too much for Aven to resist.


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Hakon leaned forward, smiling vaguely as she cuddles against his arm," Very well-" she moves forward, her lips shifting toward his- though she feints away and kisses his cheek, snickering the whole while.


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Aven's mouth opens in mock disbelief, a mischievous grin spreading over his face. "Well played, Haki... but I hope you realize... this means war!"

The day passed by in a flash, a scrambled mess of cuddling, napping, experimenting, and random onsets of viscious, no holds barred tickle fights, until the two fell into blissful sleep, tangled in each other's embrace till morning broke once more.

Aven shifted in his sleep, his forehead gently tapping against Hakon's. His eyes fluttered open, noticing the rays of golden light streaming in through the curtain. He smiles gently, planting a soft kiss on the spot they'd collided. "Morning, Haki, love."


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Hakon shifts, blinking rapidly in the dim light that filtered into the room, her body felt sore in a wonderful way as she rolled over, draping an arm over him as she curls closer," Hmm- 'morning," she mutters softly, blinking rapidly at him and flashing a smile. She felt incredibly thirst and sat up, swaying slightly in place," What time is it, do you know?"

Aven stuck an arm absently into the light, his eyes dropping only a bit, retracting his arm thereafter. "I'd say nine, give or take." His stomach growled audibly, causing a small blush of embarrassment to flit across his cheeks, a short laugh bursting from his chest to hide it. "We should get something to eat, I'm starving after yesterday!"


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Hakon moves to stand but nearly topples over, sitting on the floor in a giggling heap after her legs give out," This is worse then a day and a night of straight riding- but thats exactly what we did, huh?" She teases softly, giggling somewhat madly as she struggles to stand again," How am I supposed to get dressed if I can't stand? Ridiculous I tell you,"


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Aven chuckled at the remark, shrugging nonchalantly. "Too bad you can't simply regain your stamina from being in the dark, it's a shame..." He teased, twirling a finger at her with a smile. "As for your little clothing problem, I can help with that." A cloud of particles flowed from Aven's shadow, whirling around Hakon and creating a casual, noblewoman's dress, colored a bright turquoise with a few fluffy layers of similarly colored lace along the slightly past knee length skirt.

He examined his handiwork, a carbon copy of a dress he'd seen at a local tailor the other day, though it was missing the silver embroidery present in the original. Aven smiled wider nonetheless. "You look beautiful in that color, don't you think?"


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Admittedly, she was surprised- and shifted vaguely uncomfortably as the fabric materializes from the air and rests upon her body. This was not the first time he had treated her to such a luxury, but her gut always told her it was wrong in an odd way. She knew he did it out of good intent, even if it did feel unnatural. Carefully shifting onto her knees, running her hands over the soft fabric, she muses softly," Whatever would be thought of a General in a dress," her voice quiet and humorous. Though by now, most men and women who had served with her would know not to critisize her upon wardrobe, she knew it would be a surprise for her to be seen in blue- instead of mourning black. She suddenly looked up and blinked," Ah- the story- I should write a letter to the archives and personnel offices-" she hesitates before looking at him with a bright smile.

" Thank you- It's... Breathtaking," she chirps, raising a hand up to rest it upon his hand, beaming at him- flushing a vaguely rosy color.


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Aven blushes back, the praise more than enough for him. "Anything for you, Haki." He grasps her hand, gently hoisting Hakon onto her feet and helping to steady her. "That would be a good idea: should we do that first, or eat? If you have paper here, I could fetch you something to eat while you write. Truthfully, you don't seem in the shape to go galavanting around the grounds."


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Smiles up at him, shakily dragging herself back onto the bed and folding her legs beneath her as the skirt flowered out around her waist. Leaning against him, she hugged his arm, pressing her lips to his shoulder," Would it be wise to have you galavanting about when you're a dead man according to some records?" She muses quietly, grasping one of his hands in both of hers, gently massaging his palm.


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Aven raises an eyebrow in thought. "That's a fair point, and I have an answer." He leaned over and planted a silencing kiss on her lips with a grin. "I'll be fine, don't worry. You take care of your end, and I'll get us some food. Deal?"


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Tilts her head back to protest but is silenced by the kiss, as he pulls away, she trails slightly after him but utters a sigh and a smile. Her bright eyes flickering to the door," Be safe, please- do you need any money or...?" She tilts her head to one side, platinum locks spilling over one shoulder lazily.


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Aven holds out a hand, a shadow tendril dropping a few coins into his palm as he winks back at Hakon. "I'm all set, thanks. I'll be back in a while!"

His clothes materialize around him, the noblewear complete with cape, emblazoned with his family crest, and he exits the room with a wave.


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Hakon watches him leave in shock, so he was just going to... Walk out the front gates. Alas, the door closed by the time she found her voice - wonderful. Just wonderful. Exhaling through her nose, she shook her head with a smile, she loved that idiot - and was confident he had something discrete in mind. Forcing herself to stand, she found her feet at long last and rested her hands upon her belly- her body ached pleasantly and idly she wondered if... Perhaps she was barren- after all their adventures a year ago, she had not shown any signs of pregnancy- was something wrong? She had never gained a wound that would render it... Useless. Biting her lip, she shook her head. What was she thinking? She had no maternal instincts- why would she dare think if children now?

Smiling weakly, she settled at the desk, grasping a quill, ink bottle. The pen scratched across the paper quietly as she began to work away, brow furrowed in concentration.


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Aven returned within the hour, carrying a paper parcel of sorts, waltzing through the door with his usual smile as though running an errand on any normal day. "I'm back, Haki!" The savory smell of meat wafted through the paper as he strode over to the desk, waving a hand to cause two black marble plates to form, with matching utensils, setting the food down and ripping it open. Inside sat two small sirloins, still steaming, a pile of scrambled eggs, and six tender pieces of bacon. "I thought you'd need some protein after yesterday, so I get an extra hardy meal for us!"


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When he returned, Hakon had finished tying the last parcel to the leg of a Raven and was sending the bird off. In a flurry of black feathers she sneezed and turned back to him, smiling brightly as she did so," Well you are right- I did do most of the work," she teases softly, tilting her head with a dazzling smile. Every time she saw him, she felt as if she could positively glow. Striding up, she wrapped her arms about his waist and kisses him deeply


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Aven accepted the advance with opens arms, coiling them around her shoulders, one hand caressing the back of her neck as his tongue danced with hers. He wanted to eat, that much was certain, but whenever she kissed him, there was nothing else he could care about more. The softness of her lips pulled his in, entrancing him to no end. Even if he'd desired to break away, he was fully under her spell, and there would be no escape until she allowed it.


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Hakon, at last, pulled away and pressed her lips to his nose," How did you get about? No trouble, I hope?" She inquires softly, tilting her head to one side as she carefully settled back upon the bed, crossing her legs as the turquoise dress hung loosely but flatteringly against her.


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Aven nodded woozily, still reeling from the kiss. He picked up one of the plates and silverware, loading half the food neatly onto it and bussing it over to Hakon, two shadow tendrils doing the same for him as he sat down, handing the full plate and fork and knife to her with a grin. "I managed, no particularly familiar faces as of yet that I've run into." He accepted the plate from his tendrils, which receded, and he placed the plate on his lap, beginning to dig into the delicious food with zeal. After chewing and swallowing a mouthful of steak, he glanced to her. "We're all set with the letters?"


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She nods in response and eats rather ravenously for several moments for answering,"... From now on you'll be part of Ansgar's Hand, they will probably suggest you be promoted to Captain as well-" she smiles somewhat deviously as she pops a slice of the tender meat into her mouth, chewing slowly and appreciatively. Closing her eyes, she rested the plate on her lap before looking up," But you need a mount. A Theocog, more precisely," she offers a tiny smile, tilting her head," What do you say?"


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Aven is surprised by the suggestion, and squints playfully as he finishes a forkful of eggs. "That promotion sounds like the handiwork of a certain pretty woman, I think." He gobbles down a piece of juicy bacon, savor I guess the flavor. Delicious.

His eyebrows raise slightly at the mention of a mount. "A Theocog, huh? You have some to spare in the herd?"


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" Sales have been down and the more that are paraded about, the better," she answers, chewing thoughtfully upon her food as she flashes him a small smile," It's a process, I'll tell you that- but it's all worth bonding with one."

Aven nodded thoughtfully as he shoved another thick cut of sirloin into his maw, a few stray black particles escaping his lips, which he picked up absently with his tongue. "If I'm going to be a Captain of a heavy Cavalry unit, getting that Theocog is a top priority. Do you think you can get the time off to take me to your estate to find one? I can't imagine going alone, especially with circumstances as they are." He stuffed a combination of bacon and eggs into his mouth blissfully.


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Appreciatively and slowly chewing upon the meat she paused a moment before nodding slightly," Not long though- I need to head South any way to take control of the armies, and I'll be staying with my cousin in Vythe the majority of the time- but it can be done," she smiles faintly


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Finishing the last of his food, a piece of bacon, in a flash, Aven returned the smile. "It's settled then, we'll head over to your estate, and find a Theocog for me, then you can join the armies down south. Shall I accompany you to the front, as well? I can't say I value the idea of you fighting without someone there to guard you."


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Hakon stops short and raises a playful eyebrow at him, lowering her utensils," Guard me? Since when have I needed to be guarded?" She chuckles softly, leaning over to kiss his temple," I would like you here to overlook the training of new recruits- I trust no one but you to do a decent job of keeping them from each other's throats," she hums idly.


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Aven's mouth becomes an uncertain squiggle. "You're sticking me with babysitting duty, huh? What if I decide to do some revolutionary plotting while you're gone, eh?" He snickers, a sly smirk tugging at his cheek. "Who's going to babysit me?"


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" Oh I'll keep an eye on you," popping another slice of meat into her lips, she winked at him, one cheek puffing out slightly as she chewed and spoke - fork pointed at him rather menacingly but playfully," But should you try anything, know I'll be the first there to kick you into shape." Though her tone was light, there was some warning- clearly she had something in mind when it came 'kicking him into shape', and whatever it was- it had to be worse then sparring her.


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Aven chuckled at the threat, as if anything could be worse than forty straight sparring matches against her tower shield. "Sure, sure, honey, I'll behave." He scooted over to her, planting a kiss on the cheek that was plump with food. "Just be careful, the revolution must be getting desperate by now, they could resort to demonology. If that happens, I want you to send for me right away, I can take care of demons far easier than anyone else in the Military."


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Shaking her head she gently flicks him between the eyes," You cannot use your magic in the view of the public at any time-" she cups his face in her hands, gazing into his eyes," If anyone knows, anyone but your parents and us... This could all come crashing down on top of us. Promise me, please." Her voice become low, desperate as she gazes at him seriously.


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Aven gives her a reassuring smile, placing his hands over hers gently. "Don't worry, Haki, I wasn't suggesting purifying the demon like I did the mountain spirit." He brings her hands down to the bed, running his fingers up and down her arms in a massaging motion. "I'm not worried about demons because of their speed and strength, I'm worried because of their magics. Even you, a powerful Adhara, can't suppress demon magics: however, their enchantments and illusions do not affect me. I can slay demons with a normal sword, and remain immune to their trickery and allure, while your men, and even you, would be prey to their magics."


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She gazes at him steadily for a moment, her hands resting upon his cheeks as she gently strokes her thumb over his cheekbones. A slow, gentle smile at last curling her lips as she plants a soft kiss upon his forehead,"... I have fought demons before," she promises quietly," I won't fall so easily, you know this." Pulling away, she seemed content to leaving the conversation at that before slowly moving from the room, smiling over her shoulder," I need to get cleaned up- tomorrow we can leave for the South."


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Aven smiles relief, blushing lightly as Hakon regales him with affection. She was right, of course: out of the few times they'd faced demons, it was more often than not Aven himself who ended up in trouble. He relaxed back into the bed. "I'll be here, Haki, no rush."


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With a small smile, Hakon nods faintly, reaching out to stroke his cheek with her hand. Her eyes flickered over his face, taking in his features: the heart shaped structure, his delicate nose, soft lips, silver eyes... She felt tears welling up with happiness. She had never expected to see this face ever again, and yet- here he was. Leaning forward, she pressed her lips to his forehead," Lets get ready to go, alright?"


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Aven's eyes closed as her lips graced his forehead, a light smile on his face. "Right."

A few days of travel later...

It was embarrassing, riding behind Hakon on Purgatorio. Not because of social norms, nor a conceited belief that he should be in front: no, there was a small muscular hump in the area directly under Aven where he sat, and whenever Purgatorio would trot over uneven terrain, the  hard protrusion would partially crush the Alveron family jewels, coaxing a pitiful whimper from him each time, thus his embarrassment.

Halfway through the journey, he could have sworn the steed was doing so on purpose, seeking out the stray rock, maybe a wayward root. Only speculation, of course, but animals always had hated him, even before his dark matter transfiguration. Now, they loathed him, and Purgatorio had extra motive for doing so, being that he and Hakon had relations. It wouldn't have surprised Aven if he was viewed as trespassing on the Theocog's territory.

As the Kilandre family estate loomed close, one such stray rock was discovered, and the pained gasp from a man who'd had the vertebrae in his spine repeatedly torn apart in his body rang out. It was every man's weakness, no exceptions. "Agh... Haki, I think Purgatorio really does hate me..."


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Hakon glanced back at him, smiling faintly and uttering a low, soft chuckle she often did when he mentioned an animal's hatred for him. She had always found her interactions with animals rather simple and pleasant, and the fact that they all seemed after him only increased the ridiculous nature of it all to her. Alas, this was not to say that she hadn't noticed Purgatorio's movements and patterns the last few days. He was jealous his 'mother' was spending time with another man, ah well- he'd get over it in a year or several, who knew?

Reaching around, she gently reaches back to brush a hand through his hair," Just wait until you get your own, not to mention what the armor can do to you- are you sure you think you can handle a Theocog?"


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Aven relaxes slightly as her hand caresses his scalp, briefly forgetting the pain in his groin. "I don't think I have much of a choice, normal horses wouldn't go near me, let alone allow me to ride them. In any case, this was your suggestion in the first place, wasn't it?" He winces as he shifts on the beast's back, the spot still tender. "I just need a steed that is willing to let me ride it. I can't be a cavalry Captain without a mount... as it is, I'm barely skilled enough with a sword to qualify as a corporal."

He sighed. There really was only so much a man could excel in at once. His expertise in shadow manipulation and Dark Matter abilities greatly hindered any progress he made in swordplay, as the two required vastly different areas of the brain to accomplish. Swordplay required baser instinct, peripheral vision, footwork, and split second timing, while his abilities were all about angles, calculations, strategy, and sharp focus of the mind. The more he developed one, the looser his grasp on the other became: such is the crux of a mortal mind.


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She pauses, mulling over his words before nodding- ah- he was right, there was only so much he could do and Theocog were his best chance," Alright, hopefully imprinting in a youngster will make it easier for you two to bond," she chirps lightly, gently patting the top of his head before returning to observe the manor looming closer," How long do you think you'd be willing to take, my love?"


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Aven raises an eyebrow quizzically. He wasn't privy to the intricacies bonding with normal horses, let alone a Theocog. They had two more legs than the average horse, would that make them one and a half times harder to bond with them? He considered asking Hakon, but something told him he was overthinking the matter.

Aven wrapped his arms around Hakon's waist, scooting a bit closer. "As long as needed, I suppose. The lieutenants can take care of the recruits just fine while we're gone. In fact, seeing as I can't teach anyone much about swordsmanship past how to hit so hard the opponent can't block, it may be better that they handle it. I heard Cassian was in town, they'll be fine."


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" Ah- thats- a relief," she sighs faintly and smiles, as they draw nearer, the town around the manor seems to bustle with life. Preparation. It was good to be home, even with all the memories linked to this place that would forever haunt her.

Taking a deep breath she tilted her head back,"... I love you," she murmured. To Aven. To the plains. To the sky. To her people. God... There was so much to love.

-Several Days Later...

Her hips swayed with the steady gait of Purgatorio as they approached the herd of Theocog near the banks of a river. The massive horses huddeled together, grazing as the youngsters played and nursing mares observed them with critical eyes.

She turned slightly toward Aven, smiling slightly as she motioned toward the majestic beasts, her white sleeves billowing in the wind, skirts flapping against her legs and Purgatorio's flanks," Walk to them, Aven- the one ready to imprint upon you will be found there, though no one will know for sure which one until it happens."


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Aven hesitated, watching the herd graze. They were intimidating beasts, when he couldn't be careless around Theocog protecting their colts. Is that what they were called? No, no, he couldn't get distracted, this was essential. He'd read once that first impressions were critical with animals. With that in mind, he approached the group slowly and deliberately, trying to seem the least threatening he could.

The herd stared him down as he approached, but none more than the silver coated Mare to the side. This mare, above over things, prided itself in its instinct, and her instinct told her that the stranger approaching was a threat to the herd. The creature traveled with the bipedal being that usually visited, took care of the herd on occasion, which confused the mare. Was the nice creature unaware of the danger this one posed? Perhaps they couldn't sense the malicious energy spewing from it's form. In any case, she would protect the herd herself from this threat, charging forward at the dangerous newcomer.

Aven halted, and took a few tentative steps back. He knew they didn't like him, but wasn't this overkill?


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Hakon stood by, watching her dearest mate as Purgatorio observed Aven's awkward approach to his herd with malicious pleasure. As the energu of the herd changed, Hakon furrowed her brow, murmuring under her breath, inaudibly to anyone but her dearest companion," I am unsure he will survive this."

In the back of her mind, seemingly a whisper, a deep, familiar and gravely voice responded. We bonded the same way. He will too, or he will die.

She casts a look at her great white war horse, resting her hand flat against a muscled shoulder," He will not die. Not today, sorry Purgatorio, I know how much you were looking forward to that."

The mare's thundering hooves resounded across the field as she leapt toward the creature to attack, rearing up and striking the dangerous being straight in the hard carapace of it's chest. It had been preparing an attack with those odd, top limbs, but she stopped it cold, a feat she was quite proud of.

Aven was thrown back several feet onto the ground, a brief state of disbelief dawning over him. He'd raised his open hands in a gesture of peace, and that viscous beast completely ignored it! Well, actually, now that he thought about it, a Theocog wouldn't exactly understand human gestures, given that it was merely a colloquial sign of surrender among humans. He rolled, getting to his feet, a hoof visibly stamped into the metal of his chestplate. He didn't expect that kind of trouble, but he'd oblige it if need be.  He surged forward, catching the mare by surprise, and vaulted onto its back, much to its dismay.

The creature wasn't dead? Wolves normally passed out from that kind of impact. Above that, the creature was insanely fast on the uptake: she'd been right, it was incredibly dangerous! She began to run, bucking and twisting to throw the malicious being from her back, quite a comical display to any watching.


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" I don't think they are getting along," She observes vaguely, resting a hand under her chin and cocking her head to onee side. Platinum locks falling before her eyes as the great best between her legs bloww hot air from his nostrils.

Most don't, my friend.

" I trust this is the right thing to do.."

You sound doubtful.

" I am, but the imprinting process is always difficult."

Aven had never been to what some would call a "rodeo", but he imagined it was something akin the his current situation. One would think that having fought demons, angels, and everything in between would have prepared Aven for anything, but they would be mistaken. Between the constant bucking, tossing, turning, and darting, he was beginning to feel as though his lunch would have a meet and greet with the dirt. He squeezed his thighs against the beast's sides, gripping the black mane as tightly as he could to keep from being torn from his perch.

Persistent! She'd ran him all across the field, and he was still clinging to her back. How much would it take to trample this creature to the dirt?!


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Idly, Hakon leaned forward, resting her chest along the arch of Purgatorio's thick neck, her hands idly scratching the soft fur behind his ears. His head slowly turning to watch the mare take Aven for a ride,"... How long will this take?"

It depends, she is young, he is persistent, once she tires or accepts him, they will be able to imprint. It is different when we are not raised with one another, no?

" You are incredibly wise, Purgatorio, I would make you an advisor if they would not call me mad as a result," she muses faintly, turning to observe the herd, which seemed to be enjoying the show quite a bit.


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